Advance Parole Permission

to Travel, Protection to Return.

Advance Parole Attorney based in New York City and serving all 50 States.

At Jessop Law Firm, LLC’s Immigration Attorneys, led by Attorney Eliot Jessop, Help Clients With Advance Parole In New York City.

Our Advance Parole Immigration Attorneys located in New York City are caring, result orientated, and hard working. Immigration law is the only area of law that we do, so we are focused on getting our clients the best results.

If you think you may have any concerns or questions regarding advance parole in your immigration case, call us for a free consultation at 212-858-0716.

Advance Parole: Understanding the Basics

The first thing to understand is that when an immigrant applies for an adjustment of status (lawful permanent residency, most commonly known as a green card) through marriage, the immigrant is generally restricted from traveling outside of the United States until the matter is resolved. Traveling without permission could result in the immigrant being categorized as “inadmissible” when they return to the United States. Advance Parole works to solve this problem. The first question that should come to mind is what exactly is advance parole?

Advance Parole is a travel document that enables a person with a pending immigration application-mostly green card applications-to travel outside of the United States without having any bad consequences.

Here are Some Common Reasons Why People Want Advance Parole (Approval for Travel Outside of the United States)

As stated above, advance approval parole is essentially a travel document that permits non-U.S. Nationals who are in the process of adjusting their status to permanent residency-or who otherwise do not have a valid immigrant visa-to travel outside of the United States without causing a problem to their immigration status. There are a multitude of reasons why a person may want to seek advance parole.

An Academic Opportunity: There are a multitude of different reasons a student may need to travel overseas for academic reasons. Some examples include participating in a study abroad program and conducting field research. This is an example where Advance Parole may be necessary.

Medical Treatment: An individual may require medical consultation or a medical procedure that is not available in the United States. Advance Parole may be needed for traveling overseas without causing a problem for the immigrants’ immigration status.

Legal Matters: Some individuals may have travel overseas to attend to legal issues in their home countries or other foreign countries. Examples include court appearance, amending legal documents like wills or property deeds. These legal obligations may justify advance parole.

Family Emergency: The most common reason for seeking advance parole is to deal with family emergencies in another country, such as severe illness or death of a family member. The need to go to a funeral or assist a family member may require travel on short notice.

Humanitarian Purpose: Individuals engaged in humanitarian work/projects may need to travel abroad to participate in mission-based activities. These efforts can include disaster relief, the provision of medical care, or educational support for under-served communities. In certain circumstances, participation in a qualifying humanitarian position may provide a valid basis for requesting advance parole, allowing international travel without jeopardizing a pending immigration application.

Cultural Commitments: Important cultural and religious events may also create a need to travel abroad. Weddings, rites of passage and other meaningful ceremonies tend to often carry deep personal and familial significance. In certain circumstances, participation in such events may support a request for advanced parole.

Business or Employment-based Affair: Business travel is a common requirement for many professionals, particularly those with international clients, employers, and/or business operations. However, individuals with a pending immigration application are generally restricted from traveling outside the country without a prior authorization. For an individual in this situation, applying for advance parole before leaving the country is critical.

Academic Opportunity and Advancements: Students may be required to travel internationally for a variety of academic reasons such as participation in study abroad programs, educational exchanges, or specialized field research. For students with a pending immigration application advance parole may be necessary to permit international travel.

Medical Treatment: If an individual needs to travel abroad for a medical procedure or specialized consultation that is not available in the United States, advance parole would provide a safe and lawful pathway. With proper approval, a person with a pending immigration application may be able to seek medical care overseas without jeopardizing their immigration status.

A Summary of Application Process for Advance Parole

If you are not a U.S. citizen or green card holder and are planning to travel outside the United States, you may need an advance parole document. International travel without the proper authorization can put your immigration case at serious risk. It is imperative to understand the application process before making any travel plans.

An experienced immigration attorney can help you evaluate your options, prepare your application, and protect your ability to return to the United States.

  • Step 1 Eligibility Review : Do I qualify for advance parole?
  • Step 2 Application for Travel Documentation: Complete Form I-131. Spend time ensuring this form is filled in accurately and carefully. The form should be completed to the fullest extent to avoid any delays or denials.
  • Step 3 Additional Documents: All applicants are required to gather supporting documents. It is vital to include any and all documents that show your reasons for traveling internationally.
  • Step 4 Application Fee: An advance parole application requires payment of a filing fee, unless the applicant qualifies for a fee waiver. Confirm the filing fee on the USCIS website as it is subject to change. Failure to include the correct fee or approved fee waiver request may result in the application being rejected or delayed.
  • Step 5 Submit Your Application: Submit YOUR Advance Parole application, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), either online or by mail. You must provide a copy of your identification, evidence of your current immigration status (e.g., pending I-485), and a letter explaining the reasons for travel (e.g., humanitarian, educational, or employment).
  • Step 6 Attend a Biometrics Appointment: Attend a biometrics appointment where fingerprints and photographs are taken.

How long does the Advance Parole Application Process Take?

There is no single timeline that applies to every case. Advance parole processing times can vary depending on your situation and current backlog of cases. In many cases applicants may receive a decision within a few months. Processing may take longer if there is a high volume of cases, your cases have added complexity or immigration officials request more information or documents. Timelines can change and delays can have serious consequences; it is important to plan carefully before traveling. Jessop Law Firm, LLC, led by Attorney Eliot Jessop, can review your case; help you avoid common issues and advise you on the next best steps.

Reasons for an application may be denied.

  • The reason for travel is not clearly explained or supported.
  • Required forms or documents may be missing or incomplete.
  • There is a prior removal or deportation order.
  • Immigration officials raise security or eligibility concerns.
  • The applicant has a history of visa violations or unlawful presence.

A denial can affect future immigration options; it is important to address potential issues before applying.

How can Jessop Law Firm, LLC help with Advance Parole?

CALL: (212)-858-0716
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Advance parole applications can raise issues that are easy to miss without legal guidance.

An immigration lawyer can help at every stage of the process and reduce the risk of delays or denial. A lawyer can help by identifying risks, making sure all forms and documents are complete and accurate. Travel without proper approval can have serious consequences, it is important to understand your options before applying. An experienced immigration lawyer can help you move forward with greater clarity.