I-131 Processing Time 2026
I-131 — Application for Travel Document
Typical processing time
4–10 months
Most cases land around 7 months. Ranges vary by service center, field office, and category.
Data snapshot as of July 2026 — check the official USCIS tool for your specific office and category.
What the I-131 is
The I-131 requests permission to travel abroad and return: advance parole for pending green card applicants, re-entry permits for green card holders staying abroad long-term, and refugee travel documents.
Who files it: Pending I-485 applicants who need to travel, green card holders planning extended trips abroad, refugees and asylees.
Why I-131 cases get delayed
- Advance parole times slowed noticeably in 2025–2026 and often lag behind the companion EAD.
- Expedite requests are only granted for documented emergencies (serious illness, death in the family, urgent work travel).
- Re-entry permits require biometrics in the U.S. before you leave, which adds scheduling time.
Practical tips for I-131 filers
- Do not leave the U.S. with a pending I-485 unless you already hold advance parole (or valid H/L status) — departure can abandon the case.
- Many adjustment applicants receive a combined EAD/advance-parole card; check the card text for "Serves as I-512 Advance Parole".
- For genuine emergencies, ask about emergency advance parole at a local field office with proof of the emergency.
Waiting longer than 10 months?
If your receipt date is older than the official case inquiry date for your office, you can submit an “outside normal processing time” request. See how the case inquiry date works →