What Is a Form I-131, Application for Travel Document?
The I-131 application for travel document is a form that people use to request a travel document that permits them to travel abroad and re-enter the United States. Form is used to apply for different types of travel documents, including a Re-entry Permit, a Refugee Travel Document, or an Advance Parole Document.
Nowadays United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is responsible for processing and approving Form I-131 applications. Depending on the type of travel document being requested, USCIS might take several weeks to review application.
How To Fill Out a Form I-131, Application for Travel Document Online
Filling out a form I-131 application for travel document online is a quite straightforward process. Here are the key steps you need to follow:
- Access the PDFliner website: The first step for you is to visit the PDFliner website.
- Get a copy of the form: you can find and fill out the USCIS application for travel document free of charge on the PDFliner website.
- Provide personal information: fill out all required fields in the form, including your full name, address, date of birth, and citizenship status.
- Provide your travel information: indicate your travel plans, including your intended dates of travel and destination.
- Provide your reason for travel: provide the reason for your travel and explain why you need a travel document.
- Pay the application fee: you will need to pay the application fee online. The fee will vary depending on the type of travel document you request.
- Review and submit your application: review your application for travel document carefully and ensure that all the information you provide is accurate. Once you are satisfied with the information, submit your blank.
What Should Form I-131, Application for Travel Document Include
When completing form I-131 you will need to provide several pieces of information. Here are the items that should definitely be included in the form template:
- Personal information: Provide your full name, address, date of birth, and citizenship status.
- Travel information: Indicate your travel plans, including your intended dates of travel and your destination.
- Reason for Travel: Provide the reason for your travel and explain why you need a travel document.
- Supporting documents: Depending on the type of travel document you are requesting, you may need to submit supporting documents, such as proof of your refugee status, employment, or family ties.
- Application fee: Also you will need to pay the application fee when submitting your application.
When to Request a Form I-131, Application for Travel Document
You should request an I-131 form if you are a permanent resident, refugee, or asylee and you plan to travel outside of the United States. Here are some situations when you may need to request a travel document:
- Permanent Residents: If you are a permanent resident and plan to travel abroad for more than six months, you will need to request a Re-entry Permit.
- Refugees: If you are a refugee and plan to travel outside of the United States, you will need to request a Refugee Travel Document.
- Asylees: If you have been granted asylum and plan to travel outside of the United States, you will need to request an Advance Parole Document.
Also please remember that if you leave the United States without a valid travel document, you may be denied re-entry into the country. So, planning your travels is very important in advance, and request a travel document if necessary.
How Long Does I-131 Application for Travel Document Take?
Processing time for an I-131 application for a travel document can vary depending on the type of travel document being requested and the workload of USCIS at the time of the application. Generally, USCIS estimates processing times of 5.5 to 8 months for Re-entry Permits, 4 to 6 months for Refugee Travel Documents, and 3 to 5 months for Advance Parole Documents.
Also, it is essential to note that these processing times are only estimates and can be subject to delays due to factors such as an increase in the volume of applications or the need for additional information or documentation. So therefore, recommended to apply for the travel document well in advance of your planned travel date to allow for sufficient processing time.
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