Avoid These Common Mistakes When Filing Form I-131

Common Mistakes When Filing Form I-131 Complete Guide

Filing Form I-131 might look straightforward at first, but if you’ve ever gone through the process, you know there are plenty of little traps along the way. Whether you’re applying for advance parole, a reentry permit, or something more specialized like parole in place, even small errors can delay your travel or extend your green card application.

This post is for anyone who wants a clear breakdown of how to avoid the most common mistakes when filing Form I-131. This is not just about the form—it’s about your peace of mind and making sure your plans (and immigration status) stay safe.

1. Not Knowing What You’re Actually Applying For

A big mistake people make right from the start is that they do not fully understand what Form I-131 is used for. This single form is used to apply for multiple kinds of travel documents, including:

• Advance parole — for those with a pending green card application who want to travel abroad temporarily
• Reentry permits — for green card holders planning to be outside the U.S. for more than one year
• Refugee travel documents — for those granted asylum or refugee status
• Parole in place — often for certain family members of U.S. military service members

Each category has a different purpose and different filing rules.

A common question is What’s advance parole? It’s essentially permission to travel abroad while your adjustment of status (your green card application) is pending—without it, you risk abandoning your application just by leaving the country.

Avoid This: Before you even download the form, make sure you know which travel document applies to you. If you’re unsure, speak to an immigration attorney—guessing is risky.

2. Confusing or Skipping Fee Requirements

Another very frequent issue is with fees. You’d be surprised how many applications get delayed—or rejected—because of incorrect payment or missing fees.

Here’s what to know:

• Most applicants need to pay the I-131 filing fee of $630.
• Many also need to pay an $85 biometrics fee, depending on age and document type.
• If you filed an I-485 (green card application) and are applying for advance parole at the same time, the fee may be waived—this is why people ask about the I-131 filing fee with I-485.

Tip: Always check the current fee guidelines on the USCIS site. If you’re confused about whether your fee is included in another application, call USCIS or check with your lawyer.

3. Sending It to the Wrong Address

This might sound basic, but it’s incredibly common: sending your application to the wrong location.

USCIS has different addresses depending on what you’re applying for and how you’re applying (by mail, courier, etc.).

Applicants often get confused about where to send the form I-131 and end up mailing their forms to an old address or the wrong department entirely.

Tip: Go directly to the official USCIS Form I-131 page and check the most current mailing addresses. Addresses change—don’t rely on outdated forums.

4. Not Following the Form I-131 Instructions

You would not believe how many forms get delayed just because people don’t follow the instructions step by step.

Form I-131 asks about:

• Your reason for applying
• Your immigration status
• The date of intended departure
• Your previous travel history

Leave blanks, make guesses, or give wrong answers—and your form may be rejected or held up for months.

Tip: Read the Form I-131 instructions carefully. It’s not just paperwork; it’s your ability to travel without harming your immigration process.

5. Missing Supporting Documents

If you don’t include the right documents, your application is incomplete. And guess what? Incomplete applications don’t move forward.

For example:

• If you’re applying for advance parole for green card applicants, you’ll need your I-485 receipt notice.
• For a reentry permit, include a copy of your green card and an explanation of your planned travel.
• If it’s for I-131 parole in place, you’ll need military service documentation and proof of family relationship.

Avoid This: Check the current USCIS checklist for the I-131 application. Organize your documents before you file.

6. Assuming You Can Leave the U.S. Right Away

This is a huge mistake. Just because you filed Form I-131 doesn’t mean you can pack your bags.

If you leave the country before your advance parole or reentry permit is approved—and before you’ve completed your biometrics appointment—you might lose the ability to return.

Many people ask what the processing time is for I-131 advance parole.

Generally:

• Advance parole takes 2–6 months
• Reentry permits may take 3–6 months or more
• Biometrics may be scheduled 2–4 weeks after you file

Tip: Do not leave the U.S. until your application is approved and your travel document is in hand.

7. Ignoring the Connection Between Advance Parole and Green Card Status

If you’re applying for a green card, advance parole is your lifeline to travel. Without it, leaving the U.S. is viewed as abandoning your application.

We hear this question all the time: “Does advance parole help with a green card?”

Here’s the answer: It protects your application. It doesn’t guarantee reentry, but it keeps your status from being abandoned when you leave and reenter.

Tip: Always apply for advance parole if you plan to travel while your adjustment of status is pending.

8. Overstaying the Validity of Your Travel Document

Travel documents don’t last forever.

A reentry permit is usually valid for two years, and advance parole is often issued for one year or less.

People sometimes ask, “How long can you travel with Form I-131?” or “Is my advance parole still valid if my I-485 is denied?”

Short answers:

• If your green card application is denied, your advance parole is no longer valid.
• If your travel document expires while you’re outside the U.S., you may have trouble returning.

Avoid This: Track your expiration dates carefully and don’t travel too close to the end of your validity.

9. Assuming USCIS Will Process It Quickly

We all wish it were fast. But USCIS doesn’t always stick to the same schedule.

People often search, I-131 form processing time. The truth is, times vary based on:

• Type of document
• USCIS service center
• Your unique case

Also, advance parole renewal processing time can be just as long as your initial filing, so don’t wait until the last minute.

Tip: Plan. File early, check your case status online, and factor in several months for processing.

10. Not Asking for Help When You Need It

The immigration process is complex, and it’s easy to miss something. One of the biggest mistakes isn’t a paperwork error—it’s trying to go it alone when you’re unsure.

Tip: If anything about your case feels complicated or unclear, don’t guess. Reach out to a trusted immigration attorney.

Need Help With Form I-131? We’ve Got You.

At Passage Immigration Law, we help individuals and families across the U.S. file travel documents, advance parole, reentry permits, and more—all with careful attention to timelines and accuracy.

Let’s make sure you travel with peace of mind—contact us today for a personal, expert consultation.

DISCLAIMER: This article offers general legal information, not legal advice. Do not rely upon this information without seeking legal counsel. If you need legal advice, you may contact us directly to speak with an attorney. We disclaim all liability with respect to actions taken based on any information presented. Every case is different, and outcomes will vary depending on the unique facts and legal issues of your case.