I-131Travel Document

I-131 Timeline: How Long Does Application for Travel Document (Advance Parole) Take?

Form I-131 is the application for an Advance Parole travel document, which lets you leave the United States and return without abandoning a pending green-card application (I-485) or other eligible status. It is also used for re-entry permits and refugee travel documents.

Typical timeline

3–8 months (Advance Parole with concurrent I-485 typically processes alongside the EAD)

Stage-by-stage breakdown

1
Application filed

You file Form I-131 with the supporting evidence, most commonly concurrent with I-485 and I-765 (the "AOS combo"). Standalone I-131 filings happen for re-entry permits and refugee travel.

Filed before any international travel is needed
2
Receipt notice (Form I-797C)

USCIS issues a receipt notice with the case number. Track the case at my.uscis.gov.

2–4 weeks after filing
3
Biometrics (if required)

Some I-131 categories require biometrics. If you already gave biometrics for a concurrent I-485, USCIS typically reuses them and does not schedule a separate appointment.

4–8 weeks after filing, if separately required
4
Adjudication and decision

USCIS reviews the application and issues a decision. If approved, the Advance Parole document is mailed to your address on file.

3–8 months from filing
5
Travel document received

The Advance Parole document arrives by mail. Carry it (with your passport) on any international trip, and present it on re-entry to a US port of entry.

1–2 weeks after approval

Key things to know

  • 1Filing fee: $630 standalone (as of the April 2024 USCIS fee rule). When filed concurrently with I-485, it is included in the I-485 package. There is no separate I-131 fee. Verify at uscis.gov before filing.
  • 2Do NOT leave the US while I-131 is pending and you do not yet have Advance Parole. USCIS will treat your concurrent I-485 as abandoned.
  • 3Advance Parole does not guarantee re-entry. The CBP officer at the port of entry makes the final admission decision.
  • 4If you have a valid H-1B or L-1 visa, you can travel on that visa instead. Using Advance Parole when you have a dual-intent visa is optional.
  • 5Re-entry permits (a different I-131 use) are for permanent residents who plan to be abroad for more than 1 year but less than 2.
  • 6An approved Advance Parole document typically has a 1- or 2-year validity. Plan renewals before expiry if your I-485 is still pending.

Related forms

I-485: Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status →I-765: Application for Employment Authorization →

Frequently asked questions

How long does I-131 take in 2026?
I-131 typically takes 3–8 months. When filed concurrently with I-485 and I-765, it usually processes alongside the EAD, meaning a 'combo card' (combined EAD + AP) is issued together.
Can I travel while my I-131 is pending?
No. If your I-131 is pending and you have not yet received Advance Parole, leaving the US can be treated as abandonment of your concurrent I-485, and your green-card application would be denied. Wait for the document.
What if my Advance Parole is delayed and I need to travel urgently?
USCIS has a process for Emergency Advance Parole (EAP). It requires documented evidence of a true emergency (medical, immediate-family death). Contact a USCIS office through the e-Request or InfoPass system.
Is the EAD/AP combo card the same as Advance Parole?
Combo cards are issued when I-765 (EAD) and I-131 (AP) are filed together with I-485. The card serves both functions. You will see one card, not two separate documents.
How do I check my I-131 status?
Use your receipt number on my.uscis.gov. GreenLight decodes any USCIS status into plain English.

Statuses to watch

When your I-131 moves through stages, you may see these status updates on my.uscis.gov. Click any to learn what it means.

Case Was Received →Fingerprints Were Taken →Case Was Approved →Card Was Mailed →Travel Document Was Produced →
⏱Processing times for I-131Current USCIS estimates by service centerSee real timelinesCommunity pulse: how long cases are actually taking
Official USCIS page for I-131
Forms, instructions, and filing fees directly from USCIS.
uscis.gov →

Got a USCIS status update you don't understand? GreenLight decodes it in plain English (free).

Decode your status update →

GreenLight is an independent tool and is NOT affiliated with USCIS, DHS, or any U.S. government agency. Nothing on this page constitutes legal advice. Timelines are typical ranges. Your case may differ based on your individual circumstances. Always consult a licensed immigration attorney for advice specific to your situation. Verify all information at uscis.gov.