Why You Need to Apply Advance Parole
If you are living in the United States with a pending immigration case, you might face situations where international travel becomes necessary. Whether it is for family emergencies, educational opportunities, or work-related reasons, traveling abroad without the proper authorization can put your immigration status at risk. This is where Advance Parole becomes essential. In this blog, we will explain what Advance Parole is, eligibility requirements, how to apply Advance Parole, common mistakes to avoid, and how AloLegal can help you through the process.
What Is Advance Parole?
Advance Parole is a travel document issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It allows certain immigrants to temporarily leave the U.S. and return legally without abandoning their pending immigration application.
If you leave the country while your Adjustment of Status (Green Card) or other application is pending without Advance Parole, USCIS may consider your case abandoned. That could mean starting the process all over again. That’s why it’s extremely important to apply for Advance Parole before making any international travel plans.
Who Is Eligible to Apply Advance Parole?
Advance Parole is not for everyone. USCIS grants it to specific categories of immigrants, including:
- Applicants with pending Adjustment of Status (Form I-485).
- DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients.
- Immigrants with Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
- Asylum seekers with pending applications.
However, individuals in removal proceedings or with unlawful presence issues may not qualify. To avoid risks, it is best to consult a legal expert before filing.
How to Apply Advance Parole
If you are wondering how to apply Advance Parole, here are the main steps:
- Complete Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document):
This is the official USCIS form you need to file. Make sure it is filled out carefully and signed. - Collect Supporting Evidence:
- Copy of a government-issued ID (passport or Green Card receipt).
- Two passport-sized photos.
- USCIS receipt notice of your pending immigration case.
- Proof of the reason for your travel (medical records, employer letters, or school enrollment documents).
- Pay the Filing Fee:
The filing fee is typically around $575–$630, but fees can change. Always check the latest fee schedule on the USCIS website. - Submit the Application:
Mail the completed application packet to the correct USCIS lockbox facility. - Wait for Processing:
Standard processing takes 3–6 months, but you can request expedited processing if your case is urgent and well-documented. - Receive Your Document:
If approved, you will receive your Advance Parole travel document, which you must carry when leaving and re-entering the U.S.
How Long Does It Take to Apply for Advance Parole?
Processing times vary based on USCIS workload and your location. On average:
- Receipt Notice (I-797): 2-4 weeks after submission.
- Application Review: 2-4 months depending on backlog.
- Approval & Document Delivery: Usually 3–6 months in total.
If you need emergency travel, you can request same-day Advance Parole at a USCIS field office with proper evidence, but approvals are rare.
Common Mistakes When You Apply for Advance Parole
Many applicants face delays or denials due to small errors. Some of the most common mistakes include:
- Submitting an incomplete Form I-131.
- Forgetting to attach evidence of a pending immigration case.
- Traveling outside the U.S. before approval.
- Not explaining the purpose of the travel clearly.
- Missing the correct filing fee or sending the application to the wrong address.
Being careful and accurate when you apply Advance Parole is the key to avoiding unnecessary complications.
Why You Should Apply Advance Parole Early
Since processing times are unpredictable, it is always wise to apply months before your planned travel. Emergency requests are possible, but USCIS approvals are never guaranteed. Applying early ensures that your plans are not disrupted.
How AloLegal Helps with Advance Parole Applications
The Advance Parole process may look simple, but even small mistakes can lead to delays or denials. That’s why professional legal guidance can make all the difference. AloLegal specializes in U.S. immigration cases and helps applicants by:
- Review your eligibility before filing.
- Preparing and submitting Form I-131 with complete accuracy.
- Gathering and organizing all required supporting documents.
- Tracking your case with USCIS to prevent delays.
- Assisting with expedited or emergency Advance Parole requests.
- Providing legal guidance throughout your immigration journey.
At AloLegal, we understand how important it is to travel safely without putting your immigration status at risk. With our team by your side, you can confidently apply for Advance Parole and avoid unnecessary stress.
Conclusion
Advance Parole is a critical travel document for immigrants with pending applications in the U.S. Without it, international travel can jeopardize your entire immigration journey. Knowing how to apply for Advance Parole properly, preparing complete documents, and applying early can help you avoid delays.
If you are planning to travel abroad while your case is pending, don’t take chances. AloLegal is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your Advance Parole application is filed correctly and efficiently.
