Is it possible to travel to the U.S. while your green card is pending? Find out what happens if you depart the United States without advance parole and how it safeguards your application.
You may be wondering if you can travel abroad while your application for a green card is still pending if you applied for one from within the United States. Traveling while your green card is pending is not something you should take lightly, whether you're doing it for an emergency, a vacation, or simply to get back in touch with family. Careful planning is necessary, or else you run the risk of reversing all of your previous gains.
A pending green card shows that you have filed Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, and are awaiting processing from USCIS. This phase is similar to being in a waiting room for legal matters. You are no longer merely a guest, but you are also not yet a permanent inhabitant. Particularly when it comes to international travel, it's a gray area with very specific regulations.
Consider advance parole as your official government travel authorization document. This document helps you to travel abroad and then return to the United States while USCIS processes your green card application. If your USCIS case status shows that "Advance Parole Document Was Produced," it's a good sign that the documents have been approved and sent to you.
Consider this: You've probably even finished your biometrics appointment, paid the fees, and spent months preparing your green card paperwork. Then, without your knowledge, your application is rejected after a quick visit to your family. If you travel without advance parole, that is what may occur. Unfortunately, there is no way to reverse what USCIS refers to as "abandonment of application." You would have to start over.
The Application for Travel Document, Form I-131, must be submitted in order to apply. You can submit the I-131 separately if you have already submitted your I-485 and have neglected to include it. The form requests proof of your pending green card application, passport information, and the reason for your trip. Don't wait until the last minute because processing times vary but typically take three to six months; guidance often emphasized by Beyond Border.
In theory, you could try, but it wouldn't be wise. If you leave and try to return with a B1/B2 visitor visa while your green card is still pending, you might not be allowed entry. Why? Applying for a green card signifies your intention to immigrate, as a visitor visa is only for short, non-immigrant stays. For immigration officials, that could be a warning sign. It's not worth the risk.
Sometimes travel simply cannot wait because life happens. Because of this, USCIS allows expedited advance parole processing in certain emergency scenarios, like a medical emergency or the death of a close relative. You will need to provide a personal letter explaining your need as well as official documentation, like a hospital record or death certificate. Although it's not a guarantee, it's your best bet if you're in a tight spot.
That status indicates that your request was granted by USCIS, and your travel document has been sent. Great! But don't get too excited before you've actually held it in your hands. Displaying a screenshot or printout is not enough when traveling; you need to have the original document with you. If you lose it, it will result in more delays, just like your passport.
Depending on where your case is handled, USCIS processing times can differ significantly. The approval process for advance parole typically takes three to six months. While some fortunate people wait a little longer, others receive it sooner. Real-time estimates are available at [USCIS Processing Times](https://egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/). Just keep in mind that you should wait to book any travel until you have that document in person.
The problem is that, although it is technically possible, it is not a good idea. Your I-131 may still be denied if you depart while it is still pending and it is approved during your absence because you were not in the country. Yes, it is one of those peculiar regulations. Waiting until you have the document in your possession is far preferable.
We understand that traveling for work or school seems significant, and it usually is. Regarding advance parole, however, USCIS does not handle these any differently. It is still necessary to submit and approve Form I-131. If you're in a rush, include letters from your school or employer when requesting expedited processing. Your case may be strengthened, but nothing will be assured.
Okay, inhale deeply. If you have already left the country without advance parole, your I-485 application is likely to be denied. You may be eligible for reentry under different visa regulations, though this is rare. You should speak with an immigration attorney immediately to decide your next steps. Time is of the essence here.
The purpose of Beyond Border is to simplify this process. Like you, we have helped thousands of applicants respond to USCIS updates, file Form I-131 accurately, and avoid mistakes that cause months-long delays. Whether you're just starting your green card journey or are worried about an upcoming trip, we can offer you personalized, simple-to-follow advice.
It's best to inquire rather than assume if you're unsure if your parole document suffices or if you're allowed to travel. Huge delays or a flat rejection can be avoided with a brief consultation with us. We'll check your documentation, assess the status of your case, and, if necessary, assist you in requesting expedited parole. No bewilderment, no fear.
The processing time for green card status is not fixed. Where you live, how busy your field office is, and even government backlogs affect it. Checking USCIS processing tools is therefore a wise practice. We can assist you in submitting a service request to advance your case if it is far behind schedule.
It's normal to feel overwhelmed. There is a lot of green card stuff. However, a few well-thought-out actions can have a significant impact. Avoid taking a trip without prior parole. Verify all of your documents again. Never attempt to reenter using a visitor's visa. These small actions can prevent you from having to start over or, worse, from losing your chance at permanent residence.
It is significant that you have progressed this far in the green card application process. Avoid making a snap decision that could set you back months, such as skipping advance parole. You can travel while maintaining the course of your green card application with the correct advice and a little perseverance. You don't have to do this alone. Beyond Border is here to help you navigate it.
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