7 Ways To Fill Out Form I-131

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Traveling abroad can be an exciting experience, but for non-U.S. citizens, it often requires careful planning and paperwork. One crucial document for individuals with pending immigration applications is Form I-131, also known as the Application for Travel Document. This form allows applicants to request permission to temporarily leave the United States without abandoning their immigration applications. Filling out Form I-131 correctly is essential to avoid delays or rejections. Here, we will guide you through the process with seven steps to help you complete the form successfully.

Understanding Form I-131

Before we dive into the steps, it's essential to understand what Form I-131 is and who needs it. Form I-131 is required for non-U.S. citizens who have a pending immigration application and wish to travel outside the United States temporarily. This form serves as a request for a travel document, which may be a refugee travel document, re-entry permit, or advance parole document.

Who Needs Form I-131?

Form I-131 is required for the following individuals:

• Asylees and refugees who want to travel outside the United States
• Non-U.S. citizens with a pending application for adjustment of status (Form I-485)
• Non-U.S. citizens with a pending application for asylum (Form I-589)
• Lawful permanent residents (LPRs) who want to apply for a re-entry permit

Step 1: Determine Which Type of Travel Document You Need

The first step is to determine which type of travel document you need. There are three types of travel documents that can be requested with Form I-131:

• Refugee travel document: For asylees and refugees who want to travel outside the United States
• Re-entry permit: For lawful permanent residents (LPRs) who want to temporarily leave the United States
• Advance parole document: For non-U.S. citizens with a pending application for adjustment of status (Form I-485) or asylum (Form I-589)

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Once you have determined which type of travel document you need, gather all the required documents. These may include:

• A copy of your Form I-485 or Form I-589 receipt notice (if applicable)
• A copy of your Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (if applicable)
• A copy of your passport
• A copy of your visa (if applicable)
• Proof of your status as an asylee or refugee (if applicable)

Additional Documents for Re-entry Permit

If you are applying for a re-entry permit, you may need to provide additional documents, such as:

• Proof of your LPR status
• Proof of your permanent residence in the United States
• A detailed explanation of your reasons for temporarily leaving the United States

Step 3: Fill Out Form I-131

Now that you have gathered all the required documents, it's time to fill out Form I-131. The form is divided into several sections, and you must answer all the questions carefully and accurately.

Section 1: Information About You

In this section, you must provide your personal information, including your name, date of birth, and country of citizenship.

Section 2: Application Type

In this section, you must select the type of travel document you are applying for.

Section 3: Travel Plans

In this section, you must provide information about your travel plans, including your destination, departure date, and return date.

Step 4: Sign and Date the Form

Once you have completed the form, sign and date it. Make sure you sign your name exactly as it appears on your passport.

Step 5: Submit the Form and Supporting Documents

Submit the completed Form I-131 and supporting documents to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) address listed on the form. You can also submit the form online or through a USCIS lockbox facility.

Filing Fees

There is a filing fee for Form I-131, which varies depending on the type of travel document you are applying for. You can pay the fee by check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Step 6: Wait for Processing

After submitting the form, wait for USCIS to process your application. The processing time varies depending on the type of travel document you are applying for and the workload of the USCIS office.

Step 7: Receive Your Travel Document

Once your application is approved, you will receive your travel document in the mail. Make sure you carefully review the document for any errors or inaccuracies.

Travel Document Validity

The validity of your travel document varies depending on the type of document you received. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your travel document before traveling.

In conclusion, filling out Form I-131 requires careful attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the application process. By following these seven steps, you can ensure that your application is complete and accurate, reducing the risk of delays or rejections. Remember to carefully review your travel document before traveling, and make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your document.