With the rise in detentions and new coverage about arrests, individuals with pending immigration applications worry about traveling. Advance Parole permits individuals to travel abroad temporarily and return to the United States without abandoning their status and/or their pending immigration application.
What is Advance Parole?
Advance parole is a travel authorization document issued by USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services). An individual must present this document at a port of entry. Applicants can request this document by filing Form I-131. Not all immigration applications allow the filing of this travel document.
Do you need Advance Parole to travel?
Yes. If an individual leaves the country without advance parole, their application may be considered abandoned. Because of this risk, applicants should not travel without an approved advance parole document.
What Documents Should You Carry When Traveling?
- Your valid passport
- Your original advance parole document
- A copy of your immigration application receipt notice
- Your work authorization document (if applicable)
- Evidence of the purpose of your travel (if applicable)
Does Advance Parole Guarantee Re-Entry?
No. Even with an approved advance parole document, a re-entry into the United States cannot be guaranteed. Individuals must present themselves at a port of entry and undergo inspection from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). CBP makes the final determination on whether to grant parole into the country.
Individuals must be careful if they have prior immigration violations; a criminal record; removal order; or are actively in removal proceedings.
Emergency Advance Parole
Generally, applicants can contact USCIS if they have a pending application and wish to submit an expedite request. USCIS has the discretion to approve or deny the expedite request.
Applicants can also file “emergency” applications at their local field office via an Info Pass appointment. Applicants must present the application and evidence of the pressing need to travel.
Conclusion
Advance Parole can provide the ability to travel but it is important to keep in mind the risk. Before making travel plans, Applicants should ensure they have the correct documents and consult with an immigration attorney to asses any risks.
