The USCIS has now issued a new version of Form I-131, called Application for Travel Documents, Parole Documents, and Arrival/Departure Records. As of June 17, 2024, this new form supersedes the one dated April 1, 2024, and would be applicable only for new guidelines stipulated for applicants seeking travel-related immigration benefits.
Key Updates to Form I-131
Mandatory Use of the New Edition
As of October 11, 2024, USCIS will only accept the 06/17/24 edition of Form I-131. Applications submitted using the older 04/01/24 edition will be rejected unless they were postmarked before October 11, 2024. If you are filing by mail, ensure your application uses the most recent version to avoid delays or rejections.
Expanded Form Title
The new title reflects the form’s broader scope, now including travel documents, parole-related applications, and arrival/departure records. This update aligns with USCIS’s efforts to streamline processes and enhance applicants’ clarity.
Re-Parole for Ukrainian Citizens
On February 27, 2024, USCIS announced a new re-parole process for eligible Ukrainian citizens and their immediate family members. This program allows these individuals to apply for re-parole to extend their temporary stay in the United States.
Application Timeline
Eligible applicants must file their re-parole requests no earlier than 180 days (six months) before their parole expires. Filing during this window reduces the risk of employment authorization lapses or delays in re-parole decisions.
Risks of Filing Too Early
Requests submitted more than 180 days before the current parole expiration may be rejected or denied, with no refund of filing fees. Filing too early does not expedite decisions, so timing your application carefully is essential.
New Travel Authorization for TPS Beneficiaries
Effective July 1, 2022, Form I-512T has been introduced by USCIS as a travel authorization document which is to be issued at the discretion of the USCIS authorities to beneficiaries of Temporary Protected Status (TPS). This travel authorization document replaces all previous advance parole documents issued to TPS beneficiaries traveling outside the United States.
Issuance of Form I-512T
In case USCIS approves your Form I-131 and you are a beneficiary of TPS, then you will receive the Form I-512T that would facilitate your reentry to the United States. However, if you currently have a pending initial TPS application, you will receive an I-512L (Advance Parole Document) instead.
Travel Risks for TPS Applicants
Applicants with pending TPS re-registration or initial applications should exercise caution when traveling outside the United States. Failure to respond to USCIS notices or having your TPS denied while abroad can jeopardize your immigration status.
Applications for Parole
Initial Parole Requests
Form I-131 can be used to request parole into the United States for noncitizens outside the country. These requests must be based on urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit and may be linked to specific programs like the:
- Filipino World War II Veterans Parole Program
- Immigrant Military Members and Veterans Initiative
- Family Reunification Task Force (FRTF) Process
Approved applicants may receive a boarding foil or a Form I-512L travel document.
Re-Parole Requests
Foreign nationals also present in the United States whose authorized period of parole has expired may request re-parole under Form I-131. The approved requests will give rise to a new Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record dated to reflect the new admission.
Consequences of Travel Without Proper Authorization
For anyone filling out Form I-131 in order to apply for advance permission to travel, including long-term residents of the CNMI, it is critical that approval of that travel document is received before leaving. If not, it would lead to automatic termination of their CNMI long-term resident status.
Jurisdiction Over Parole Requests
However, the agency that is responsible for re-parole applications would entirely depend on which agency had originally granted parole to the individual. Generally, this is the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), unless otherwise directed. However, USCIS provides specific instructions on how to file a re-parole request that is processed by its office.
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Programs Covered by Re-Parole
Examples of re-parole programs include:
- Family Reunification Parole Processes
- Certain Afghan and Ukrainian parolees
- Central American Minors Program
- Military Parole in Place
- Other humanitarian initiatives
Final notes
The Form I-131 is an important document for individuals involved in any travel and parole-related US immigration process. Whether seeking travel authorization, initial parole, or re-parole, you need to adhere to USCIS guidelines closely. Update yourself on new forms and filing instructions to avoid non-compliance and delays. For more information, visit USCIS’s Travel Documents, Expedite Requests, and Emergency Travel pages.
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