Mahaprasad Nanda

Applying for Advance Parole for Business Travel

Advance Parole is a travel document that allows individuals without immigrant or nonimmigrant status to re-enter the United States after traveling abroad. It's crucial for those adjusting status to permanent residency and for DACA recipients.

Eligibility:
Advance Parole is granted for humanitarian, educational, or business reasons. Business travel covers various scenarios like overseas work assignments, conferences, training, or job interviews.

Application Process:

Step 1: Complete Form I-131
Fill out Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) online or by mail. Ensure to include extra time for your return in case of delays, especially for DACA recipients. You can find Form I-131 here: https://www.uscis.gov/i-131

Step 2: Gather Evidence and Pay Fees
The filing fee is $575, but fee waivers may apply in certain cases. Include supporting documents such as:
- Receipt notice for pending green card application (if applicable)
- Proof of relation to a family member (if applying based on their application)
- Two passport-style photos
- Proof of current immigration status (e.g., DACA approval notice)
- Photocopy of a government-issued ID
- Evidence of business travel reasons (e.g., employer letter, contract, enrollment letter)

Step 3: Submit to USCIS
Submit your application online via your MyUSCIS account or mail it to the correct USCIS address based on your location and mail service. Check the USCIS website for the appropriate address: https://www.uscis.gov/forms/filing-guidance/form-filing-tips

Additional Points:
- Advance Parole is valid for one year, but re-entry is subject to CBP inspection.
- DACA recipients can gain additional benefits from Advance Parole, like meeting the legal entry requirement for a green card.
- Consulting an immigration lawyer is recommended for complex situations.

Important Considerations:
Advance Parole is essential for individuals who do not have a special visa or permission to stay in the United States. If they leave without obtaining Advance Parole, they may not be allowed to return. This is particularly critical for those in the process of becoming permanent residents.

DACA recipients must obtain Advance Parole if they wish to leave the United States and return. The three primary reasons for granting Advance Parole are humanitarian reasons, education, and business.

For business travel, applicants need to provide evidence of their need to travel for work. It's crucial to send the application to the correct address to avoid rejection.

Disclaimer:
The information presented in this article is intended for academic and marketing purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified immigration attorney or legal professional for accurate and up-to-date legal counsel specific to your individual circumstances. Laws and regulations are subject to change, and professional guidance is crucial to ensure compliance.

OpenSphere is a technology company and does not hold itself out as a law firm. It operates independently and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or any government entity. OpenSphere, its authors, and agents do not warrant the accuracy or real-world applicability of the information herein, nor are they liable for any damages arising from reliance on this information.