How to Obtain Your Permiso de Inmigración para Viajar Step by Step

Introduction

So many U.S. immigrants misunderstand U.S. immigration rules & hold great fear of making a mistake. Most immigration “active cases” will allow safe travel abroad by immigrant. However, those with active immigration applications (“pending” or “in process”) will generally require a Permiso de Inmigración para Viajar / Advance Parole before re-entry to the U.S.

Here’s how one applies for Advance Parole and key criteria for approval:

• Apply for Advance Parole through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
• Provide necessary documentation to support your application.
• Ensure that your application is submitted while your immigration case is still active.

Also, some tips and cautions to make your foreign travel as smooth as possible:

• Keep copies of all your immigration documents with you while traveling.
• Stay informed about the current immigration policies and regulations.
• Consult with an immigration attorney if you have any doubts or concerns.

What to do if your application for Advance Parole is denied:

• Review the denial notice carefully to understand the reasons for denial.
• Consider reapplying if you can address the issues raised in the denial.
• Seek legal advice to explore your options.

Additional matters to consider when traveling abroad while an immigrant with active immigration applications:

• Be aware of the potential risks of traveling while your application is pending.
• Plan your travel dates carefully to avoid complications with your immigration status.

Our purpose in laying out all of these details is to enable the many U.S. immigrants with current immigration applications to take safe and healthy trips abroad.

Understand Advance Parole: Definition and Eligibility

A pending case does not prevent a person with a temporary leave of absence permit to return to the U.S. as a temporary entrant while a case is pending. Individuals applying for a temporary leave of absence permit typically are those with pending applications for a green card, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), or other relief under which they may be eligible for admission to the U.S. Such applications are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and the inadmissibility of the individual may be found depending on the individual’s prior immigration history. That individual would then require a waiver of inadmissibility for each ground of inadmissibility for which he or she is found inadmissible and be granted admission to the U.S. while in possession of the granted permission.

Even if Temporary Leave of Absence is granted, Temporary Leave of Absence does not guarantee admission to the U.S. In some cases, pending immigration application may lead to individual review of Temporary Leave of Absence application due to a complex immigration history or reasons of inadmissibility of the applicant. Starting from 2026, the filing fee for the application for Form I-131 will be $630 for paper filing and $580 for online filing. Also, the immigration parole fee of $1,000 will be required for parole into the U.S. that will start on October 16, 2025.

Whether a pending immigration application will prevent a traveler from returning to the U.S. after a foreign trip will depend on the nature of the pending application. In many cases, applications for Temporary Leave of Absence (TLA) are granted to holders of temporary leave certificates and these individuals are granted temporary admission into the U.S. upon their return. Generally, Temporary Leave of Absence applications are filed by applicants with pending cases for green cards (Form I-485 applications), TPS applications, or other requests for humanitarian relief. However, each case will be considered on a case-by-case basis, and some applicants may be considered inadmissible to the U.S. under various grounds and will require a waiver to gain admission to the U.S. Using prior immigration history as an example, an individual who has previously overstayed a visa may be considered inadmissible under Section 212(a)(7)(B) of the Immigration and Nationality Act for visa overstay, and would require a waiver in order to be granted admission into the U.S. with his or her Temporary Leave of Absence granted permission.

Don’t leave the country while your asylum application is pending as it can harm your credibility regarding the fears of persecution which are the basis of your request for asylum. If you receive a subpoena to appear in court, are contacted by ICE or any other government agency or are in any other kind of emergency situation, remember your rights and remain silent. You can reach us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even on short notice and we will provide you with quality immigration representation.

Gather Required Documents for Your Application

Advance Parole is a very useful process to go through for many people. However, many find the most overwhelming part is the many documents that are required to send in with the I-131 form. Below is a list of documents you will need to gather.

1. Completed Application Form I-131: Here is the application for Advance Parole that you will need to fill out and sign.
2. Proof of Identity: A copy of the biographical page of your passport.
3. Proof of Your Immigration Status: This will depend on your individual situation, but usually you will need to provide proof of your current immigration status. This could be in the form of a copy of your I-94 arrival/departure record (even if you are outside of the United States at the time of application) and/or a receipt notice for your pending Advanced Parole application, as well as any other relevant immigration documents.
4. Two Passport-Style Photos: Two identical passport-style photos are to be included with the Advance Parole application. The requirements for photos are found on the USCIS Web site under Photo Requirements.
5. Supporting Documents: These will depend on your circumstances but we have found that applications for Advanced Parole due to special circumstances (such as medical treatment) will typically require additional documentation. If you are an employee applying for Advanced Parole for business travel your employer may need to write a letter detailing the purpose of your trip.
6. Filing Fee: For a standard filing, the total current fee for I-131 applications is $575. We have detailed information regarding the current fees and processing times for USCIS applications and to download forms on our website. For Advance Parole processing classified as “emergency” processing, there is an additional charge of $55 for biometric data (fingerprints). The total current fee for “emergency” Advanced Parole processing is $630.

It is essential that all documents are provided clearly and legibly to avoid any processing delays. Some Advance Parole applications will require the applicant to attend an interview with a USCIS Officer after the application has been submitted. It is highly recommended that you seek advice from an experienced immigration lawyer who specializes in your circumstances and will be able to provide you with a list of required documents for your Advance Parole application.

Complete and Submit Form I-131 for Advance Parole

Immigration forms and their requirements can be very confusing. Every detail must be completed correctly or the entire application could be rejected. However, with Early Release and its Form I-131 application, the process can be much easier to understand and complete if you just follow a few steps to complete your Early Release application for Advance Parole.

1. Get the Right Form: To begin with Early Release and its application, Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) can be found on the USCIS website or requested by mail from the USCIS.
2. Fill Out the Form: Complete and sign the form I-131 by filling in all of the required information and choosing the appropriate application type. Also, be sure to list the reason for which you are requesting Early Release.
3. Check everything you have filled in: All information must be complete and accurate. One common mistake is the personal information of the applicant. Also the application will not be processed if it is not signed.
4. Attach Required Documents to Form I-131 Application for Early Release: Because the list of required documents to apply for Early Release as an Advance Parole applicant is different from that of the family members of Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) applying for Early Release as well as for Family Members of Individuals with Pending Adjustment of Status Applications (e.g. I-485 applicants), applicants will need to refer to the correct list and ensure that all documents required for their request are attached to the application. (For example: Applicants with pending adjustment of status applications will need to include their I-485 receipt number on their application).
5. Pay the Filing Fee for the Early Release Application: The Application Fee for Early Release requesting an Advance Parole travel document I-131 is $630. In addition to the Application Fee, applicants will also be required to pay an $85 fee for biometrics for a total of $715 when submitting their request by mail (or $630 online with credit/debit card for online filing). Starting October 16, 2025, there will also be an additional $1,000 required for USCIS parole requests, bringing the total required for the Early Release request to $1,715 for mail filing (and $1,630 for online filing with credit/debit card) and this must be paid by check or money order made payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security” or by online payment by credit/debit card for online filing.
6. Submit Your Request: Mail your completed Form I-131 and supporting documents to the correct USCIS address (found on the USCIS website). If you applied for Form I-131 online, you will be directed to the online section of the form where you can submit your application.

Keep a copy of the completed application, along with any corresponding receipts for processing. We have listed the typical processing time for Early Release requests submitted in 2026, for which it will take around 4-8 months for processing. In order to avoid problems with processing, it is advisable to submit the corresponding application for Early Release as early as possible. Additionally, you must keep in mind that any corresponding request for Early Release submitted while outside of the U.S. will be considered a forsaken request and will affect the current immigration status of the applicant. Emergency travel requires the immediate processing of the corresponding request for Early Release, in which case it is advisable to seek out the professional guidance of an experienced immigration lawyer in order to examine the possibility of submitting the request outside of the U.S. and to receive any other alternatives available to the applicant. We are here to assist you every step of the way.

Know the Processing Time and What to Expect

How Long Does it Take for USCIS to Process an Application for Advance Parole? When Form I-131, Application for Advance Parole, is submitted by your immigration attorney to USCIS for processing, it is important to know how long it will take for the travel authorization requested by the application to be approved. Generally, Advance Parole processing times are approximately 3 to 6 months for approval; however, several factors can affect the timeframe in which an application for Advance Parole is processed by USCIS.

• USCIS Workload: The Workload of USCIS, which is at a record high currently, affects how long it takes to Process Applications. As a result, it is taking USCIS a longer period of time to Process Applications for Advance Parole for travelers with temporary immigrant status.
• Is My Application Complete? When reviewing your application for processing, USCIS will identify if they are missing required documentation or information. When items are missing, applications are placed on hold while the applicant is contacted to clarify what additional documentation is required to complete the processing of their application for Advance Parole.
• Security Checks: These checks are performed by several government agencies and are typically completed as part of the processing of the application for the Advance Parole travel document. As with any security check, the amount of time it takes to complete processing of an application for an Advance Parole travel document can vary depending on a variety of factors including the volume of applications received by USCIS as well as the applicant’s background.

When it comes to Advance Parole applications, although processing times can take anywhere from a few months to a year or longer for many applications, the great majority of Advance Parole travel document applications are processed within a short period of time, typically within three to six months. We provide updated information on the current Advance Parole processing times on the USCIS’s website. If you are unsure of whether you are eligible for an application for Advance Parole for certain travel or have questions and/or concerns about your ability to enter and/or re-enter the U.S. after traveling abroad while in Provisional Unlawful Presence Status (PUPS), please contact our expert immigration attorneys and we can provide you with the proper immigration relief in the form of an application for an advance travel document and provide guidance regarding the newly issued immigration travel document(s) that will permit you to return to the U.S. upon your return from foreign travel.

Prepare for Travel: Tips and Re-entry Procedures

Traveling can be complicated. But with knowledge of your rights and the rules governing a DACA recipient’s travel outside of the U.S., a smooth trip can be had by all. Below are a few things to keep in mind for your next trip out of the country.

1. Documentation: For traveling always have all documents that apply to you such as your immigration permit to travel, your passport, your early approval for DACA, and your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card.
2. Your Travel Dates: Be aware of your departure and return dates as they are specified in your permiso de inmigración para viajar. As a rule, there is a delay in the immigration process for most applicants, therefore, it is best to allow for extra time prior to your departure to avoid having to return home prematurely.
3. Research Your Destination: In addition to making sure that your immigration permit to travel is current, it is essential that you are aware of the entry requirements for the country or countries that you intend to visit. Whether you will need a visa to enter your destination, and how you can apply for it, are examples of information that you will need to review prior to your trip.
4. Before you re-enter into the US: You could potentially get pulled over for a secondary inspection at any time. It is imperative that you know your rights as well as your documentation for prolonged inspections to be granted early release as soon as possible.
5. Know if Any New Immigration Policy Changes May Affect Your Early Release, Re-Entry Eligibility or Process: Changes in policy and new procedures for re-entry will affect whether you can be granted early release and also affect your eligibility and process for re-entry as a DACA recipient. Thus, it is crucial that the DACA recipient, as well as his or her family, stay informed of any changes that may affect him or her.
6. Travelers Should Be Prepared for Medical or Other Type of Emergencies: Whether you are traveling to another country due to medical reasons or other emergencies, you must always be aware of your rights in case you are confronted by immigration officers. As already mentioned before, remember that you have the right to remain silent and request to speak with an immigration lawyer as soon as possible. If you are a DACA recipient and need our assistance during an emergency, then call us 24/7 at the Vasquez Law Firm. Emergency Temporary Release will be granted as soon as possible when the Firm receives the proper documentation to substantiate said request such as: copies of the patient’s entire medical records, letter from patient’s healthcare provider that explains the reasons for said trip, etc.

Know your rights and have a safe and successful trip by educating yourself on rules and how your traveling may affect your future.

Conclusion

A Green Card for Traveling is an official, worldwide permit for persons with a valid, unexpired immigrant status to return to the United States. That being said, however, travel authorization can be a complex issue within U.S. immigration law. And, as an immigrant yourself, seeking the right immigration permit for traveling can be a very daunting task for you. At Vasquez Law Firm, we understand how challenging it is for immigrants like you to get the right permiso de inmigracion for traveling. In the following sections, we will elaborate on the processes and provide the simple step-by-step instructions on how to apply for an Advance Parole application and how to submit the application so that it can be approved in the first place and save you time and energy while planning for your trip.

Make sure you have a complete application to avoid wasting time and making the process of Advance Parole a frustrating experience. Find out the current processing time for your Advance Parole application and review your rights as a traveler with an expired immigration permit. Immigration laws and policies are subject to change; therefore, review how any recent changes to immigration law and policy may affect you should you attempt to re-enter the country.

Whether you need help obtaining an Advance Parole application for yourself or a loved one, Vasquez Law Firm is here to walk you through the process with ease. As stated previously, Vasquez Law Firm is proud to serve the Spanish-speaking immigrant community. Our law firm offers services in both English and Spanish. We strive to take care of our clients with respect and dignity and offer flexible payment options for our services. We fight for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Advance Parole?

Advance Parole is a temporary leave of absence permit that allows individuals with pending immigration applications, such as green cards or Temporary Protected Status (TPS), to return to the U.S. as temporary entrants.

Who is eligible to apply for Advance Parole?

Individuals with pending applications for a green card, TPS, or other forms of relief may apply for Advance Parole. Eligibility is evaluated on a case-by-case basis, considering the individual's immigration history.

Does having Advance Parole guarantee admission to the U.S.?

No, having Advance Parole does not guarantee admission to the U.S. Each application is reviewed individually, and some applicants may be found inadmissible based on their immigration history.

What are the filing fees for Advance Parole applications?

Starting in 2026, the filing fee for Form I-131 will be $630 for paper filing and $580 for online filing. Additionally, an immigration parole fee of $1,000 will be required for entry into the U.S. beginning October 16, 2025.

What documents are required to apply for Advance Parole?

Required documents include: - Completed Application Form I-131 - Proof of identity (biographical page of your passport) - Proof of immigration status (I-94 record or receipt notice for pending application) - Two passport-style photos - Supporting documents relevant to your circumstances - Filing fee (currently $575 for standard processing)

What should I do if my asylum application is pending?

It is advised not to leave the country while your asylum application is pending, as it may harm your credibility regarding your fears of persecution.

Can I receive legal assistance for my Advance Parole application?

Yes, it is highly recommended to seek advice from an experienced immigration lawyer who can provide guidance on the required documents and assist with the application process.

What happens if I need to attend an interview after submitting my Advance Parole application?

Some Advance Parole applications may require the applicant to attend an interview with a USCIS Officer after submission. It is important to be prepared for this possibility.

List of Sources

1. Understand Advance Parole: Definition and Eligibility
   • Processing Times Delays - Advance Parole | Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc. (CLINIC) (https://cliniclegal.org/resources/religious-immigration-law/processing-times-delays-advance-parole)
   • Advance Parole in 2026: Fees, Eligibility & Travel Rules (https://ellis.com/resources/advance-parole-in-2026-a-guide-to-traveling-abroad-while-your-us-case-is-pending)
   • Advance Parole in 2026: When It’s Safe to Travel and When It’s Risky (https://floralegalgroup.com/news-english/advance-parole-in-2026-when-its-safe-to-travel-and-when-its-risky)
   • USCIS Implements New Immigration Parole Fee Required by H.R. 1 (https://uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-implements-new-immigration-parole-fee-required-by-hr-1)
   • Navigating the New Normal: DACA Renewal Delays and the Advance Parole Landscape | Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan (https://mmhpc.com/navigating-the-new-normal-daca-renewal-delays-and-the-advance-parole-landscape)
2. Gather Required Documents for Your Application
   • News Releases (https://uscis.gov/newsroom/news-releases)
   • Applying for Advance Parole: A Preliminary Checklist (https://immigrantsrising.org/resource/applying-for-advance-parole-a-preliminary-checklist)
   • Advance Parole: Frequently Asked Questions (https://immigrantsrising.org/resource/advance-parole-frequently-asked-questions)
   • Advance Parole Travel Document (Form I-131) | Apply in 2026 (https://us.iasservices.org.uk/applying-for-an-advance-parole-travel-document)
   • Emergency Advance Parole for DACA recipients - Informed Immigrant (https://informedimmigrant.com/resources/daca/emergency-advance-parole-daca)
3. Complete and Submit Form I-131 for Advance Parole
   • Form I‑131: Application for Travel Documents — What to Know in 2025 (https://manifestlaw.com/blog/form-i131)
   • Avoid These Common Mistakes When Filing Form I-131 (https://passage.law/filing-form-i-131-mistakes)
   • Advance Parole 2026: Form I-131 Travel Document Guide for Green Card Applicants - Atlas Legal Immigration Law (https://theatlaslegal.com/advance-parole-i131-travel-document-2026-guide)
   • International Travel Alert: Change In Policy Regarding Advance Parole Travel Document Applications (https://msk.com/newsroom-alerts-2613)
   • Travel on Advance Parole: Updated FAQs - Reddy Neumann Brown PC (https://rnlawgroup.com/travel-on-advance-parole-updated-faqs)
4. Know the Processing Time and What to Expect
   • March 9, 2026 Updates on EADs and Advance Paroles: (https://bcalawfirm.com/march-9-2026-updates-on-eads-and-advance-paroles)
   • Processing Times Delays - Advance Parole | Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc. (CLINIC) (https://cliniclegal.org/resources/religious-immigration-law/processing-times-delays-advance-parole)
   • Advance Parole | Processing Times & What to Expect (https://lauraleonlaw.com/en/our-services/advance-parole)
   • Advance Parole in 2026: Fees, Eligibility & Travel Rules (https://ellis.com/resources/advance-parole-in-2026-a-guide-to-traveling-abroad-while-your-us-case-is-pending)
5. Prepare for Travel: Tips and Re-entry Procedures
   • Frequently Requested Statistics on Immigrants and Immigration in the United States (https://migrationpolicy.org/article/frequently-requested-statistics-immigrants-and-immigration-united-states)
   • Navigating the New Normal: DACA Renewal Delays and the Advance Parole Landscape | Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan (https://mmhpc.com/navigating-the-new-normal-daca-renewal-delays-and-the-advance-parole-landscape)
   • Preparing for Re-Entry After Traveling on Advance Parole | Immigrant Legal Resource Center | ILRC (https://ilrc.org/community-resources/preparing-re-entry-after-traveling-advance-parole)
   • Advance Parole in 2026: Fees, Eligibility & Travel Rules (https://ellis.com/resources/advance-parole-in-2026-a-guide-to-traveling-abroad-while-your-us-case-is-pending)