Advance Parole is a travel document that allows certain non-citizens—such as DACA recipients and individuals with pending green card applications—to leave the United States temporarily and return lawfully. If you need to travel abroad while your immigration application is pending, you must apply for Advance Parole and receive approval before departing the country.
While Advance Parole enables reentry into the U.S., it does not guarantee admission. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has the final authority at the port of entry.
You may qualify to apply for an Advance Parole document if you fall into one of the following categories:
To submit a strong Advance Parole application, you’ll typically need:
The Advance Parole processing time generally ranges between 3 to 6 months, depending on the type of request and USCIS workload. It is strongly advised not to make travel plans until your document is approved and in hand.
The Advance Parole cost typically includes a filing fee of $575 if filed using Form I-131. However, fees may be waived if submitted alongside other immigration forms such as Form I-485. Always verify current fees on the USCIS website before applying.
Without an approved Advance Parole document, traveling outside the U.S. while your immigration status is pending may result in your case being considered “abandoned.” This could lead to a denial of your green card or DACA status. Advance Parole is crucial for:
Even with an approved Advance Parole document, reentry is not guaranteed. U.S. Customs officers make the final decision at the border.
A Re-entry Permit is a travel document for lawful permanent residents who plan to be outside the U.S. for more than one year but less than two years. It helps you maintain residency status while travelling abroad for extended periods.
ou can apply for Advance Parole by filing Form I-131 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Be sure to include all required documents, supporting evidence, and applicable fees.
The Advance Parole processing time is typically 3 to 6 months, but timelines can vary. You should apply well in advance of any planned travel.
No. USCIS has the discretion to approve or deny your request based on the purpose of travel and supporting evidence.
While most Advance Parole holders are allowed reentry, final admission is determined by CBP officers at the U.S. port of entry.
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