Application for Travel Document
I-131 · Application for Travel Document
Requests a travel document — Advance Parole (AP) while I-485 is pending, a Re-entry Permit, or refugee travel documents.
Median processing days
210 days
about 7 months
Typical range (80%)
90–420 days
Most cases decided within about 1.2 years
Approval rate
94.1%
Trailing 12 months · 2025 Q4
Source: USCIS Processing Times and official quarterly data (2025 Q4 snapshot). For reference only, not a time commitment.
Purpose and process
The most common use is AP filed with I-485 for travel while the case is pending.
Green-card holders planning a single trip abroad longer than one year usually need a Re-entry Permit.
Who files it
Adjustment-of-status applicants, LPRs planning long absences, and refugees / asylees.
Official references
Common USCIS statuses for this form
Case Was Received
USCIS has received your filing and generated a receipt number. This is only the starting point — active review has not begun yet.
Case Was Approved
The case is approved.
Advance Parole Document Was Produced
The Advance Parole travel document is being produced.
Document Was Mailed To Me
The document has been handed off to USPS.
Frequently asked questions
Can I travel while I-485 is pending?
Not without Advance Parole. Even after filing I-131 and receiving the receipt, leaving before the AP is issued can be treated as abandonment of the I-485 for most applicants.
How fast is AP right now?
AP filed with I-485 is currently around 4–8 months in most cases. Standalone Re-entry Permits can take longer.
Can I use AP for multiple trips?
The combo card (I-765 + I-131) generally allows multiple entries during the validity period, but always follow the exact wording printed on the card.
Track your I-131 case
Enter your receipt number. MyCases polls USCIS on a schedule and alerts you the moment the status changes — by email, Telegram or WeChat Work. Free forever.
General information only, not legal advice. Official USCIS notices in writing always take precedence.