If you’re applying for a green card from within the United States (a process called Adjustment of Status), you may be surprised to learn that leaving the country without special permission could result in your application being denied. This is where Advance Parole comes in — a travel document that allows certain applicants to re-enter the U.S. legally while their immigration case is pending.
In this guide, we’ll explain what Advance Parole is, who qualifies for it, how to apply, and what you need to know before traveling.
What Is Advance Parole?
Advance Parole is a travel authorization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It allows certain immigrants with pending green card applications or other immigration benefits to temporarily travel abroad and return to the U.S. without abandoning their application.
Without this document, leaving the U.S. while your green card application is pending could be seen as abandoning your case — even if you have a valid visa.
Who Needs Advance Parole?
Advance Parole is typically needed by individuals who:
- Are applying for a green card through Adjustment of Status (Form I-485)
- Do not currently have a valid visa that allows re-entry to the U.S.
- Need to travel internationally before their green card is approved
Note: People with DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), TPS (Temporary Protected Status), or asylum applicants also often use Advance Parole.
You do not need Advance Parole if you are:
- In the U.S. on a nonimmigrant visa and not applying for AOS
- A permanent resident (green card holder)
- Applying for a visa or immigration status from outside the U.S.
Why Is It Important?
Traveling abroad without Advance Parole while your I-485 is pending can lead to:
- Denial of your green card application
- Being considered to have abandoned your case
- Difficulty re-entering the U.S.
Advance Parole protects your pending status and ensures that you can return to the U.S. legally after temporary travel.
How to Apply for Advance Parole (Form I-131)
To apply, you must file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, with USCIS. Here’s a basic step-by-step guide:
- Complete Form I-131
- Available at uscis.gov/i-131
- Include Required Documents
- Copy of your receipt notice for Form I-485 (I-797C)
- Two passport-style photos
- Copy of photo ID (passport, driver’s license)
- Explanation of the reason for travel
- Pay the Filing Fee
- If you filed Form I-485 and paid the fee after July 30, 2007, the Advance Parole fee is usually included.
- Otherwise, the filing fee is currently $575 (check USCIS fee schedule).
- Mail the Application
- Send your application to the USCIS Lockbox listed for your category and location.
How Long Does It Take to Get Advance Parole?
Processing times for Advance Parole can vary but typically range from 3 to 6 months.
It is not advisable to book travel until you have the physical travel document in hand. USCIS does not expedite these applications except in emergencies.
Can You Travel While Your Advance Parole Is Pending?
No. You must wait until your Advance Parole document is approved and received before traveling. Leaving the U.S. without it will most likely result in the denial of your green card application.
Emergency Advance Parole
In rare situations, you may be able to request emergency Advance Parole by visiting a USCIS field office with evidence of an urgent reason to travel (e.g., family medical emergency).
Bring:
- Completed Form I-131
- Proof of emergency (doctor’s letter, death certificate, etc.)
- Government-issued ID
Call USCIS Contact Center (1-800-375-5283) to request an emergency appointment.
Real-World Example
Maria, a green card applicant married to a U.S. citizen, needs to visit her sick mother in Mexico. Her I-485 is pending, and she has no other valid visa. Maria applies for Advance Parole, waits 4 months to receive it, and then travels to Mexico. Upon return, she presents the document at the airport and re-enters the U.S. legally, continuing her green card process without issues.
If Maria had traveled without the document, her application would likely have been denied.
Key Takeaways
- Advance Parole is essential for international travel while your green card application is pending.
- Apply early and do not travel until the document is approved.
- Use Form I-131 and gather the right supporting documents.
- In emergencies, request an expedited appointment at USCIS.
Advance Parole can offer flexibility during a long immigration process — but only if used correctly. Be sure to understand the risks and follow USCIS guidance carefully.
