Your Advance Parole travel document was approved. You can now travel internationally while your green card case is pending.
What comes next
Do NOT travel until you physically have the document in hand. Book travel after receiving it. Always carry it when re-entering the U.S.
Typical timeline
After I-131 approval, the physical Advance Parole document typically arrives within 7-14 business days. Total I-131 processing times average 6-18 months from filing.
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If you're stuck on this status
If your Advance Parole document was approved but hasn't arrived after 30 days, submit a service request. Note: if your Advance Parole expires while you're abroad, you will be unable to re-enter the U.S. and may need to apply for a visa at a U.S. consulate.
What to do now
1Wait for the physical document before booking any travel
2Always carry the Advance Parole document when re-entering the U.S.
3Note the expiration date — you must return before it expires
4Keep a copy of the document separate from the original while traveling
When to contact an attorney
You usually do not need an attorney for this status by itself. Consider legal help if your case is outside published processing times, you receive a confusing notice, or your facts are complicated.
Community average
Applicants typically wait 10 days before the next update after this status.
Frequently asked questions
What is Advance Parole and why do I need it?+
Advance Parole (AP) is a travel document that allows people with pending I-485 (adjustment of status) applications to travel internationally and legally re-enter the U.S. Without it, leaving the U.S. while your I-485 is pending is considered abandonment of your application.
Can I travel as soon as my I-131 is approved?+
No — you must wait until you physically receive the Advance Parole document. Do not book international travel until the card is in your hands. Traveling before receiving the physical document is at your own risk.
What happens if my Advance Parole expires while I'm abroad?+
If your AP document expires while you're outside the U.S., you cannot re-enter on it. You would need to apply for a visa at a U.S. consulate (which may be difficult with a pending I-485) or your green card case could be abandoned. Always ensure your AP covers your entire travel period.
Do I need Advance Parole if I have an H-1B or L-1 visa?+
Generally, if you maintain your H-1B or L-1 visa status and your employer is willing to sponsor your re-entry, you may be able to travel on your visa instead of Advance Parole. However, this is complex and you should consult an immigration attorney before traveling internationally with a pending I-485.
Can I apply for Advance Parole at the same time as my green card?+
Yes — and you should. Form I-131 can be filed concurrently with Form I-485 as a combo application. Filing together is more cost-effective and ensures your AP is ready before you need to travel.
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. Always verify at my.uscis.gov.