Prepare I-131 – Application for Travel Document

Who this page is for

This page is for people who want a structured way to prepare the information needed for Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. It is intended for applicants who may be seeking a reentry permit, a refugee travel document, or advance parole, and who want to understand the main topics USCIS asks about before filling out the official form. The guide is also useful for anyone reviewing Form I-131 in a browser-friendly layout before printing, signing, and assembling a filing package for USCIS or using an eligible online filing option.

What is Form I-131?

Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, is a USCIS form used to request certain travel documents in connection with U.S. immigration status. Depending on a person’s situation, it may be used to apply for a reentry permit for lawful permanent residents, a refugee travel document for some refugees or asylees, or advance parole authorization for certain noncitizens with pending applications. The form helps USCIS decide whether to issue a travel document and under what conditions it may be used.

Used to apply for a travel document, such as advance parole, a reentry permit, or a refugee travel document.

USCIS organizes Form I-131 into sections that collect biographic information, current immigration status, travel history, and the reasons for requesting a travel document. Different parts of the form correspond to different categories, so applicants generally complete only the sections that apply to their situation. The official instructions explain which parts to use for each type of travel request.

On this page you prepare for the official USCIS Form I-131 (Edition 04/01/24) by understanding what it covers and where to find the most recent instructions. You can then download the official PDF, review it carefully, sign where required, and follow USCIS directions for filing the application and attending any required biometric appointments.

Example situations where someone may use Form I-131

Form I-131 is used in several different immigration-related travel scenarios. Examples include:

• A lawful permanent resident planning to spend a significant period of time outside the United States who applies for a reentry permit so that extended travel is documented for immigration purposes.
• A refugee or asylee who needs a refugee travel document to travel abroad and return to the United States without using a passport from the country of feared persecution.
• A noncitizen with a pending adjustment of status application who requests advance parole authorization before traveling outside the United States so that leaving does not automatically abandon the application under USCIS rules.
• Certain individuals in other categories for whom USCIS instructions specifically reference Form I-131, such as some beneficiaries of humanitarian or special programs described by the agency.
• Situations where a person already holds an approved immigration benefit but needs a USCIS-issued travel document to help demonstrate permission to return after temporary travel abroad.

These examples are illustrations of how Form I-131 is often used based on general USCIS guidance. They are not a substitute for legal advice or for the official USCIS instructions that explain who is eligible to file and what type of travel document, if any, may be appropriate.

How to fill Form I-131

The official USCIS instructions for Form I-131 explain the exact structure of the form and which parts to complete for each category of travel document. While this page does not display the full application line-by-line, the outline below shows typical sections you may see on the current edition. You can use this overview to organize your information before you start filling out the official USCIS PDF or online form.

1. Reason for applying and type of travel document. Early in the form, USCIS asks which kind of document you are requesting, such as a reentry permit, refugee travel document, or advance parole. This selection determines which parts of the form you complete and how USCIS evaluates your application.
2. Information about you. The form collects your name, address, date and place of birth, A-Number (if any), current immigration status, and other biographic details. USCIS uses this information to match your application with existing records and to confirm eligibility for the travel document category you selected.
3. Travel plans and history. Applicants may be asked about planned travel dates, destinations, reasons for travel, and prior time spent outside the United States. For some categories, the form also asks about past use of travel documents or reentry permits and whether they have been lost, expired, or returned.
4. Additional category-specific questions. Certain sections of Form I-131 apply only to particular categories, such as refugees, asylees, or adjustment of status applicants seeking advance parole. These questions help USCIS understand how the requested travel fits into the applicant’s current status or pending case.
5. Signatures and declarations. As with many USCIS forms, Form I-131 includes a section where you certify that the information is true and correct, followed by your signature and the date. There may also be sections for interpreters, preparers, or representatives if someone assisted in completing the application.

After you review the USCIS instructions and gather your information, download the official Form I-131, complete the sections that apply to your category, sign where required, collect supporting evidence, and follow USCIS guidance on where and how to file your application.

Common mistakes on Form I-131

• Selecting the wrong category of travel document or completing sections that do not apply to your situation according to the USCIS instructions.
• Leaving required questions blank, especially those related to current status, travel history, or reasons for travel, which may lead to Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or delays.
• Forgetting to sign the application in all required places, which can result in a rejection or return of the filing.
• Providing inconsistent information about travel plans or prior trips compared to other immigration forms or prior filings.
• Not including supporting documents requested by the USCIS instructions for the particular category of travel document being sought.
• Using an outdated edition of Form I-131 when USCIS requires the current version listed on its website.
• Sending the application to the wrong USCIS address or omitting the correct filing fee or fee waiver request as described by USCIS.
• Not keeping copies of the signed application and evidence, making it harder to understand what USCIS has on file or to prepare for future requests or filings.

When Form I-131 is usually not used

Form I-131 is specific to particular travel document categories. Other forms or procedures are generally used in different situations, for example:

• Routine international travel by U.S. citizens using a U.S. passport, which does not rely on Form I-131.
• Nonimmigrant visa applications handled through U.S. consulates abroad, which use Department of State forms rather than USCIS Form I-131.
• Some travel authorization processes that use other USCIS forms or are built into separate immigration benefits, rather than a standalone I-131 application.
• Situations where a person does not have an immigration status or pending application that qualifies for a travel document category described in the USCIS instructions.
• Scenarios in which a traveler simply needs a visa or entry document issued by another government, not a travel document from USCIS.

These are broad examples based on how USCIS organizes travel-related benefits. They do not replace the official USCIS instructions or legal advice about whether Form I-131 is appropriate in a particular case.

Where to find the official USCIS instructions for Form I-131

USCIS publishes the official instructions for Form I-131 on its website along with the most current edition of the application. Those instructions explain eligibility categories, required evidence, filing addresses, fees, and what may happen after filing. You can read them on the official USCIS Form I-131 page. This page is only a helper for organizing information and understanding the form and does not replace the official USCIS instructions or guidance from a qualified representative.

Before you sign and file Form I-131, it is a good idea to compare your completed application with the USCIS instructions to confirm that you are using the correct edition, have included all required pages, and understand what additional forms or steps may be needed in your category.

Where to get a blank or replacement Form I-131

If you need a blank application, you can download the current official Form I-131 PDF directly from USCIS. This page points you to that official PDF so you can print, sign, and include it in a filing package that meets USCIS requirements. USCIS may also provide online filing options for certain I-131 categories, which are explained on the official form page.

If you realize that you made an error after preparing or filing an application, USCIS instructions and notices explain how corrections, withdrawals, or updates may be handled. Keeping a copy of your final signed Form I-131 and supporting documents can make it easier to understand what USCIS has on file and to prepare any future filings or responses.

Glossary of key terms on Form I-131

Reentry permit

A reentry permit is a travel document that certain lawful permanent residents may use when they plan to spend an extended period outside the United States. It helps show that they intend to maintain U.S. residence and can make it easier to return after long trips abroad, consistent with USCIS and Department of Homeland Security rules.

Refugee travel document

A refugee travel document is a travel document that some refugees or asylees may use instead of a passport from the country where they feared persecution. Form I-131 is used to request this document from USCIS, and the official instructions explain who may qualify and how it is used for international travel.

Advance parole

Advance parole is written permission from U.S. immigration authorities that may allow certain noncitizens with pending applications to travel abroad and request parole back into the United States. Form I-131 is often used to request advance parole, and USCIS materials explain which categories may apply and what risks or limitations may exist.

Biometric services appointment

A biometric services appointment is a scheduled time when USCIS collects fingerprints, photographs, or signatures to verify identity and conduct background checks. Many Form I-131 applicants are required to attend such an appointment before USCIS completes processing of the application.

Receipt number

A receipt number is an alphanumeric identifier printed on USCIS notices after an application is accepted. Applicants use this number to check the status of Form I-131 and other filings through the USCIS online case status system.

Security best practices when sharing information from Form I-131

Form I-131 contains detailed personal and immigration information, including addresses, dates of birth, status information, and travel plans. Because of this, it is sensible to treat the application and any supporting evidence as sensitive documents. The practices below may be helpful when you handle draft or final versions of your application.

• Store digital copies of your application and evidence in locations you control, such as secure folders or password-protected storage services.
• Avoid sharing your full application or supporting documents by public links or unsecured email when a more private method is available.
• Keep a record of which copies you send to any representative or helper so you know who has access to sensitive details.
• Confirm that you are using official USCIS addresses and online portals before entering payment information or uploading documents related to your I-131 application.

These are general security considerations. Always follow the specific directions you receive from USCIS, the Department of Homeland Security, or any authorized representative assisting with your case.

Common questions people also ask about Form I-131

• Is Form I-131 required for every trip outside the United States? No. Many travelers, such as U.S. citizens using a passport, do not use Form I-131 at all. The form is reserved for specific categories of immigration-related travel documents described in USCIS instructions.
• Can I travel while Form I-131 is pending? In some situations, traveling before receiving a decision on Form I-131 or on a related immigration application can have consequences. USCIS and, in some cases, the Department of State provide guidance about whether travel is advisable or whether it may affect a pending case, and many people discuss these questions with a qualified representative.
• Do I need a lawyer to file Form I-131? USCIS does not require you to work with a lawyer, but many applicants choose to consult an immigration attorney or accredited representative because travel and status issues can be complex. This page is only an informational helper and is not a substitute for individualized legal advice.

FAQ about Form I-131

Important disclaimer

This site is not a law firm and is not affiliated with USCIS or any government agency. It provides a private, third-party resource to help you understand and prepare for the official Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. The information on this page is general and does not replace the official USCIS instructions or professional legal advice. Always review your completed form and follow the directions from USCIS, the Department of Homeland Security, and any qualified representative assisting with your case.