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Form I-131: Application for Travel Document
USCIS Form I-131 is an application used to request travel documents for certain non-U.S. citizens and U.S. lawful permanent residents who need to travel internationally but may face difficulties re-entering the United States. This form is typically used by refugees, asylees, lawful permanent residents, and conditional residents who need documentation to facilitate their return to the U.S. after foreign travel.
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USCIS Form I-131 - Application for Travel Document
USCIS Form I-131 is an application used to request travel documents for certain non-U.S. citizens and U.S. lawful permanent residents who need to travel internationally but may face difficulties re-entering the United States. This form is typically used by refugees, asylees, lawful permanent residents, and conditional residents who need documentation to facilitate their return to the U.S. after foreign travel.
Risk Radar
Scan points- 1Using an outdated version of Form I-131 will result in rejection of your application.
- 2Incorrect edition date used on form
- 3Missing or expired passport photos
- 4Inconsistent information between form and supporting documents
- 5Insufficient evidence for travel document eligibility
Plain English
If you're not a U.S. citizen but need to travel abroad and return to the U.S., you may need special permission. Form I-131 helps you get that permission through various types of travel documents depending on your immigration status. Without the proper document, you might be denied re-entry into the United States, which could have serious consequences for your immigration status.
Submission Date
- Filing date: Form I-131 should be filed well in advance of your planned international travel, typically at least 2-3 months before departure, as processing times can vary. There is no annual deadline, but you must file before traveling as you cannot obtain these documents while abroad in most cases.
- Preparation window: collect IDs, supporting records, and signatures in advance.
- Final review: verify names, dates, and required fields before submission.
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What this form is for
- Use this form when you need a Refugee Travel Document, Re-entry Permit, Transportation Letter, or Advance Parole Document
- Do not use this form if you are a U.S. citizen needing a passport; use Form DS-11 instead
- Check Form I-765 if you are applying for an Employment Authorization Document instead of a travel document
Form selector
Use this form or another form?
Refugee/asylee needing to travel
Prevents re-entry issues
✓ Verify current refugee/asylee status documentation
Lawful permanent resident traveling for extended period
Preserves LPR status
✓ Check travel duration and passport validity
Conditional resident with pending I-751
Allows travel while petition pending
✓ Ensure I-751 is filed concurrently
U.S. citizen born abroad
Citizenship documentation
✓ Check if CRBA is needed first
Deadline or filing window
Form I-131 has no annual filing deadline, but should be submitted well in advance of planned international travel. Processing times vary widely (currently 3-9 months depending on application type and service center), so apply at least 2-3 months before travel if possible. Emergency processing is available in certain circumstances but requires additional documentation and expedite fee approval.
- —Travel duration | None | Maximum permitted absence | Re-entry permits typically allow up to 2 years abroad
- —Application fee amount | Varies by document type | Total payment due | Check current USCIS fee schedule before calculating
Checklist
What you need before filling it out
Part 1: Application Type
Specific document requested · Form instructions section
Part 3: Biographic Information
Valid government-issued ID · Previous immigration applications
Part 4: Travel Plans
Itinerary and purpose of travel · Flight bookings, invitation letters
Part 5: Immigration History
All prior immigration petitions · Approval notices, prior I-131 filings
Supporting Documents
Passport photos, immigration documents · USCIS photo requirements, prior USCIS correspondence
Signature
Applicant's original signature · Form instructions section
Before you submit
- 1Verify you have the latest edition of Form I-131 (08/23/2021)
- 2Ensure all form fields are completed with current and accurate information
- 3Check that passport photos meet USCIS specifications (2x2 inches, white background, etc.)
- 4Confirm all supporting documents are included and properly copied
- 5Verify correct filing fee amount and payment method
- 6Ensure form is signed in ink where required
- 7Double-check mailing address for your specific filing category
- 8Make copies of entire application package before mailing
How to file this form
- 1Complete Form I-131 selecting the appropriate travel document type
- 2Gather required supporting documents including photos and proof of status
- 3Prepare payment for filing fee using acceptable methods (check, money order, etc.)
- 4Mail completed application to correct USCIS Lockbox address based on your category
- 5Create online account if eligible for electronic filing to track progress
- 6Submit biometrics appointment notice if required for your application type
- 7Keep all copies and receipt until final decision is received
Known limitations
- 1USCIS does not guarantee approval; eligibility depends on individual circumstances
- 2Processing times are estimates and can change without notice
- 3Approval does not guarantee entry to other countries; check visa requirements
- 4Some applicants may require in-person interview at USCIS office
- 5Emergency processing is not guaranteed and requires separate approval
- 6Travel documents have expiration dates and must be renewed before expiration
Field map
Compact field-by-field guide
Part 1
3 items
Name as it appears on your immigration documents.
MM/DD/YYYY
Alien Registration Number if applicable.
Part 2
3 items
Select: Reentry Permit (LPR), Refugee Travel Document, Advance Parole (pending I-485), or other.
Expected departure date and countries you plan to visit.
Brief description of why you are traveling outside the U.S.
Signature
1 items
Sign and date. If under 14, parent or guardian must sign.
Almost done reviewing the fields?
Fillable formOpen in Editor->The current edition of Form I-131 was last updated in 08/23/2021, and USCIS may make periodic updates without notice. Always check the USCIS website for the most recent version before filing.
What changed or needs a fresh check
- Edition date: Must be 08/23/2021 or newer
- Fee: Varies by application type (check current USCIS fee schedule)
- Mailing address: Different addresses for different filing categories
- Processing times: Vary significantly by service center and application type
- Supporting documents: Vary based on travel document type requested
Quick Facts
Downloads
After you file
- 1Keep all copies of filed application and supporting documents
- 2Monitor USCIS online account if applicable for updates and requests
- 3Attend any scheduled biometrics appointment promptly
- 4Respond promptly to any Requests for Evidence (RFE)
- 5Check Form I-797 Notice of Action when received for accuracy
- 6Document processing timeline and any communications with USCIS
- 7Allow extra time for document delivery when traveling internationally
Sources
- SRCForm I-131 is used for Refugee Travel Documents, Re-entry Permits, Transportation Letters, and Advance Parole Documents
- SRCCurrent edition date is 08/23/2021
- SRCFiling fees vary by document type and are subject to change
- SRCProcessing times range from 3-9 months depending on service center and application type
- SRCForm must be submitted to appropriate USCIS Lockbox facility based on filing category
- SRCSome applicants may be eligible to file online through USCIS account
- SRCEmergency processing is available with additional documentation and fee
- SRCSupporting documents required vary based on travel document type requested
- SRCBiometrics appointment may be required for some applicants
- SRCForm I-131 is not used by U.S. citizens for passport applications
Common confusion points
Form I-131 vs. Form I-765
Different purposes (travel vs. work authorization)
→ Verify you need travel document, not work permission
Refugee Travel Document vs. Re-entry Permit
Different eligibility requirements
→ Confirm your immigration status before selecting
Advance Parole vs. Re-entry Permit
Similar but different processes
→ Check if you have pending adjustment of status
Online vs. paper filing
Some categories not eligible for online filing
→ Verify eligibility based on your category
Fee waiver eligibility
Complex income guidelines
→ Review USCIS fee waiver criteria carefully
Workflow map
Related forms and next steps
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After
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