Individual holding a passport, symbolizing the importance of advance parole in maintaining legal status during the immigration journey. The image reflects the diverse reasons for travel, including family reunification, educational pursuits, and employment opportunities.

Are you an immigrant looking to apply for advance parole? You’re not alone. Advance parole is a form of travel authorization that allows certain individuals, such as those with pending green card applications or DACA recipients, to leave and re-enter the United States without jeopardizing their immigration status.

While it may seem like a straightforward process, applying for advance parole can be crucial for your entire immigration journey. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of advance parole and how it can benefit your immigration process.

What is Advance Parole?

Advance parole is a travel document that allows non-citizens to temporarily leave the United States and re-enter without being considered unlawfully present. This means that individuals with advance parole can maintain their legal status in the US despite leaving temporarily.

There are different types of advance parole, including:

  • Humanitarian Parole: This type of advance parole is granted for urgent humanitarian reasons, such as visiting a sick family member or attending a funeral.
  • Employment-based Parole: This type of advance parole is granted to individuals who need to travel for employment reasons, such as attending conferences or meetings related to their jobs.
  • Education-based Parole: This type of advance parole is granted to individuals who need to travel for educational purposes, such as studying abroad or attending a conference related to their field of study.

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Why is Advance Parole Important?

When it comes to immigration, timing is crucial. Advance parole can provide much-needed flexibility in your immigration journey and allow you to take advantage of important opportunities without risking your status.

Here are some reasons why advance parole may be crucial for your immigration process:

Maintaining Legal Status

Leaving the US without advance parole can have serious consequences for your immigration status. If you leave without proper authorization, you may be barred from re-entering for a certain period or even face deportation. Advance parole ensures that you maintain your legal status and can re-enter the US without any issues.

Avoiding Delays in Your Immigration Process

Applying for advance parole before traveling can prevent delays in your immigration process. Without it, you may have to wait for your green card or other immigration application to be approved before being able to travel. This can prolong the process and cause unnecessary stress.

Taking Advantage of Educational and Employment Opportunities

Advance parole allows individuals to take advantage of educational and employment opportunities that may arise during their immigration process. By being able to travel outside of the US, individuals can attend conferences, workshops, or even job interviews without jeopardizing their immigration status.

Reuniting with Family

For many immigrants, being able to visit and reunite with family members is a top priority. Advance parole allows individuals to travel for urgent humanitarian reasons, such as visiting a sick family member or attending a funeral. This can provide much-needed comfort and support during difficult times.

How to Apply for Advance Parole

If you believe that advance parole may be crucial for your immigration journey, here are the steps you can follow to apply:

Determine your eligibility

Not everyone is eligible for advance parole. Make sure to check the requirements and see if you meet them before starting your application.

Gather the necessary documents

You will need to gather various documents, such as a valid passport, Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document), and evidence of your eligibility for advance parole.

Fill out the application

Fill out Form I-131 and make sure to provide accurate information.

Pay the required fees

There is a fee associated with applying for advance parole. Make sure to pay the correct amount and include proof of payment with your application.

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Submit your application

Once you have completed all the necessary steps, you can submit your application by mail or in person at a designated USCIS office.

Advance parole may seem like just a simple travel document, but it can have a significant impact on your immigration journey. By understanding its importance and following the steps to apply for it, you can ensure that your immigration process goes smoothly and without any unnecessary delays. Don’t underestimate the power of advance parole in helping you achieve your immigration goals. 

So if you believe that advance parole may be beneficial for your situation, it’s best to consult with an immigration lawyer who can guide you through the process and ensure that your application is successful.