What is the I-512 Advance Parole Document for Traveling Abroad?
Key Facts About Advance Parole
The I-512 Advance Parole Document is a travel authorization that allows certain noncitizens in the United States to temporarily travel abroad and return lawfully while their immigration applications are still pending. Without this authorization, traveling outside the U.S. during a pending adjustment of status or asylum application could result in your case being considered abandoned and ultimately denied.
Advance parole is particularly important for individuals with a pending green card application (Form I-485), asylum seekers, refugees, beneficiaries of the Family Unity Program, and recipients of Temporary Protected Status (TPS). To request this travel authorization, you must file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document.
It’s essential to understand that advance parole does not replace your passport—you must travel with both documents. Even with an approved I-512 document, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have the authority to review your case at the port of entry and may deny admission if they determine you are inadmissible.
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys can help you evaluate whether advance parole is the right option for your immigration journey and guide you through the application process to avoid costly mistakes.
Who is Eligible for an Advance Parole Document (I-512)?
You may qualify to apply for advance parole if you meet one of the following criteria:
- You have a pending adjustment of status application (Form I-485)
- You were admitted to the U.S. as a refugee
- You have a pending asylum application
- You are a beneficiary of the Family Unity Program
- You are a Temporary Protected Status (TPS) recipient
Adjustment of Status Applicants
If you have filed for adjustment of status (Form I-485), you must obtain advance parole before traveling abroad. Leaving the U.S. without it will almost always result in USCIS treating your case as abandoned. Fortunately, you do not need to justify the reason for travel when applying.
Asylum Applicants
If you have a pending asylum application (Form I-589), you must secure advance parole before leaving the U.S. Otherwise, your case will be considered abandoned. Keep in mind that if you travel back to your country of claimed persecution, it could significantly weaken your asylum claim.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Recipients
TPS recipients must obtain advance parole before international travel. Leaving without it may break the continuous physical presence requirement that is necessary to maintain TPS.
Other Noncitizens
Individuals with humanitarian parole or other forms of temporary status may also apply for advance parole if they can prove travel is required for humanitarian reasons or for the public good.
How to Apply for an Advance Parole Document
Here are the typical steps to apply for advance parole:
Step 1: Determine eligibility and complete Form I-131. Be specific when filling in your travel purpose and dates.
Step 2: Gather supporting documents, such as proof of pending immigration status.
Step 3: Submit the application with the required filing fee (you may pay by check, money order, or Form G-1450 for credit card payment).
Step 4: USCIS will issue a receipt notice (Form I-797). You may also be scheduled for a biometrics appointment.
Step 5: Await USCIS decision. If approved, you will receive your I-512 Advance Parole Document.
Airlines generally accept the advance parole document as proof of authorization for re-entry into the United States. However, it is not a substitute for your passport.
Form I-131 and Its Connection to Advance Parole
Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, is the form used to request different types of travel authorization, including advance parole, refugee travel documents, and re-entry permits.
When applying for a green card, you may submit Form I-131 together with your Form I-485 at no additional cost. If you apply separately, you will need to include:
- A copy of your photo ID (passport or driver’s license)
- Two passport-style photographs
- The receipt notice for your pending green card application
If approved, USCIS will issue Form I-512L, Authorization for Parole of an Alien into the United States—this is the physical advance parole document you will use for travel.
Why Advance Parole is Essential
Failure to obtain advance parole before leaving the U.S. can result in the denial of your pending green card or asylum application. In addition, travel without this document may interrupt your immigration status or create unnecessary legal challenges upon reentry.
Because each case is unique, consulting an experienced immigration attorney at Green Card Link is the safest way to ensure your application is filed correctly and that your travel plans will not put your immigration future at risk.
✅ Get Trusted Guidance Today
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys are ready to help you with your Form I-131 application and guide you through the advance parole process. Whether you are applying for a green card, asylum, TPS, or another immigration benefit, professional guidance can make the difference between a smooth approval and an abandoned case.
Important DACA Update (as of January 17, 2025)
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit issued a ruling regarding the DACA Final Rule. As a result:
- USCIS will continue accepting and processing DACA renewal requests and related Employment Authorization applications.
- USCIS will still accept initial requests but will not process them at this time.
- Current grants of DACA and related work permits remain valid until expiration unless terminated individually.
Advance Parole Eligibility for DACA Recipients
If you are a DACA recipient, you may apply for Advance Parole using Form I-131 under the following conditions:
- Employment purposes: Training, conferences, client meetings, or overseas work assignments.
- Educational purposes: Study abroad programs, academic research, or international seminars.
- Humanitarian purposes: Medical treatment, family emergencies, or other urgent needs.
- Medical treatment: Submit a letter from a doctor or hospital confirming your diagnosis and required care.
- Attending a funeral: Provide proof of the relative’s passing and your relationship.
- Visiting a seriously ill relative: Include medical documentation and a personal statement explaining why your presence is essential.
Upon approval, you will receive Form I-512L, Authorization for Parole of an Alien into the United States.
Submitting Form I-131 with a Green Card Application
One of the most efficient ways to apply for Advance Parole is to submit Form I-131 along with your green card application (Form I-485). The key benefits include:
- No additional filing fee if submitted with your adjustment of status application.
- Simplified processing, as both applications are reviewed together.
- A copy of your government-issued photo ID (such as the photo page of your passport).
- Two passport-style photographs.
If you already submitted your green card application and later decide to request Advance Parole separately, you must still provide:
- Two passport-sized photos.
- A copy of your ID.
- A copy of the Form I-485 receipt notice.
For Reentry Permit applicants, you may leave the U.S. after attending your biometrics appointment and collect your travel document at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad (if requested on your I-131 application).
Advance Parole – Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a travel document?
Without Advance Parole, leaving the U.S. while your green card is pending could result in your application being considered abandoned and ultimately denied. This would force you to restart the process and pay all fees again. Applying for Advance Parole ensures your pending status remains active.
What does “DA” on my I-94 mean?
If your online I-94 shows “DA” under class of admission, it means you were admitted under Advance Parole status.
Can I leave the U.S. before receiving Advance Parole?
No. You must have the approved travel document in hand before traveling abroad to avoid serious immigration consequences.
How do I check processing times?
USCIS updates processing times monthly. Current estimates for Advance Parole (as of March 2025) range between 8–22 months, depending on the service center. Emergency requests may be filed with supporting evidence and the guidance of an immigration attorney at Green Card Link.
Who is not eligible for Advance Parole?
You are not eligible if you:
- Are in removal proceedings.
- Entered the U.S. illegally and remain without valid status.
- Already hold a valid reentry permit or travel document (unless lost or returned).
- Are the beneficiary of a private immigration bill.
Can Advance Parole guarantee reentry?
No. Even with Advance Parole, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers can deny admission if you are deemed inadmissible under INA §212(a).
Is Advance Parole the same as a Reentry Permit?
No. Advance Parole is for non-residents with pending applications and usually valid for one to two years. Reentry Permits are issued to permanent residents and resemble a passport book, typically valid for two years.
How many times can I travel with Advance Parole?
You may travel multiple times during its validity period, provided the document has not expired.
How long is Advance Parole valid?
It is typically valid for one year but can sometimes be issued for two years.
What are the benefits of Advance Parole?
- Allows international travel without jeopardizing a pending immigration application.
- Preserves your pending green card or adjustment of status application with USCIS.
How Green Card Link Can Help
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys have extensive experience helping clients secure Advance Parole and Reentry Permits. From preparing strong supporting evidence to ensuring timely and accurate filing of Form I-131, the team provides tailored guidance for your unique situation.
If you are considering applying for Advance Parole, schedule a consultation with an immigration attorney at Green Card Link today to protect your status and secure your ability to travel with confidence.
