I-131 Reentry Permit Filings to Avoid Rejection with the New Form

by
USCIS

Key Updates in the New Edition of Form I-131

In late 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released a mandatory new version of Form I-131. This is the official Application for Travel Document. The form and its intake procedures changed significantly. Because of this, USCIS took a rare step and eliminated the usual filing grace period. As of October 11, 2024, the agency only accepts the current version. All applications using the old 04/01/24 edition or earlier will be rejected.

What is Form I-131 and Who Needs It?

Form I-131 is a critical application for a U.S. travel document. It allows re-entry under specific circumstances. It is not a standard visa, but a special permit. The main types of travel documents from this form include:

  • Advance Parole: This is essential for people with a pending green card application. It also applies to those with DACA or TPS status. The document allows them to travel internationally and return without abandoning their pending case. Traveling abroad without Advance Parole can lead to a denial of their application.
  • Re-entry Permit: Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) need this permit. It is for travel outside the U.S. for more than one year but less than two. The permit helps prove their intent to maintain U.S. residence and makes their re-entry easier.
  • Refugee Travel Document: This document is for individuals with refugee or asylee status. It allows them to travel abroad and return to the U.S. It functions like a passport from their country of origin.
Form I-131

Form I-131

Critical Details of the Mandatory Update:

The key takeaway from the 2024 announcement is its strictness. All applicants must be aware of the following:

Immediate Rejection: On or after October 11, 2024, all outdated forms will be rejected. A rejection has serious consequences. The application is returned, filing fees are lost, and the applicant must start over. This causes major delays.

No Grace Period: Unlike many form updates, there was no grace period for the new Form I-131. The cutoff was firm.

What Applicants Must Do:

Applicants must use the correct version of Form I-131. This will avoid rejections and delays. Always download the latest form from the official USCIS website right before you file. Do not use previously saved versions, as they may be obsolete.

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