How to prepare Form I-131
Confirm eligibility and filing category first, then match every answer to passports, civil documents, and immigration records.
- 1
Identify the document type
Distinguish reentry permit, refugee travel document, Advance Parole, initial parole, Parole in Place, and re-parole.
- 2
Confirm location and eligibility at filing
Some documents require presence in the United States at filing and timely biometrics.
- 3
Prepare identity, I-94, and prior documents
Verify passport, A-Number, current status, and prior travel or parole documents.
- 4
Document travel or parole grounds
Document dates, countries, purpose, humanitarian facts, or significant public benefit.
- 5
Verify edition, fee, and filing method
Reopen the official USCIS page on the filing date and verify edition, fee, online eligibility, and mailing instructions.
- 6
Transfer to the official form and sign
Transfer verified English answers to the current official PDF or myUSCIS, attach evidence, and complete every required signature.
Common evidence checklist
Evidence varies by category and case. Use this list to prepare, then review the current official instructions before filing.
- Passport, identity evidence, I-94, and current immigration documents
- Green Card, refugee/asylee approval, or pending-application evidence
- Prior reentry, refugee travel, Advance Parole, or parole documents
- Travel itinerary, purpose, and expected-date evidence
- Medical, family, agency, or significant-public-benefit parole evidence
- Complete certified English translations
Form I-131 FAQs
Can I leave immediately after filing I-131?+
Some categories require presence at filing, and departure timing may affect the application, biometrics, or other pending cases.
Does Advance Parole guarantee reentry?+
No. It permits a request for parole at the port of entry; inspection and the final decision remain with the government.
Does a reentry permit preserve permanent residence?+
It may support temporary-travel intent but does not automatically eliminate abandonment or naturalization residence risks.
Can this worksheet be filed directly with USCIS?+
No. This is a I-131 preparation and English review worksheet. Transfer the answers to the current official form or USCIS online system.
Should AI translate a person's name?+
No. Use the existing English spelling on the passport or official record. Names and identification numbers are never sent to AI.
Why are the fee and mailing address not hardcoded?+
USCIS changes fees, Lockbox routing, and online-filing eligibility. Verify the official page on the day of filing.