In a recent announcement, the United States Department of Homeland Security, through Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), has implemented revised guidelines for submitting travel document applications. Form I-131, designed for this purpose, has been updated with an expiration date of October 31, 2025.
Form I-131 covers various travel needs including:
- Allows lawful or conditional permanent residents to apply for entry into the United States without having to obtain a return visa from a U.S. embassy or consulate upon returning from abroad during the period of validity of the authorization.
- It is issued to individuals with valid refugee or asylum status, or to lawful permanent residents with refugee or asylum status acquired in the United States, and allows them to return without the need for a return visa.
- Allows people currently in the United States to enter the country for a specific purpose. It is not a substitute for a required passport and travelers must undergo an admissibility check at the port of entry.
- Allows long-term residents in the CNMI to temporarily travel to other parts of the United States for legitimate reasons without automatically losing their long-term resident status in the CNMI.
Requests
USCIS emphasizes that each applicant must submit a separate application for a travel document. In addition, it contains specific instructions for each document type:
- Return travel permit: Requires physical presence in the United States during submission and performance of biometric services and may vary in validity depending on individual circumstances.
- Travel document for refugees: Applicants must submit the application before leaving the USA. The document is usually valid for one year.
USCIS notes that failure to obtain re-entry authorization or extended absences from the United States without proper documentation may be considered a waiver of lawful permanent resident status, subject to DHS's determination upon return.
The revised instructions aim to simplify the travel document application process and provide clarity for applicants seeking to navigate U.S. immigration procedures.