DACA recipients must complete Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, to request advance parole for travel outside the United States. Supporting documents include proof of DACA status, such as an approval notice, and a detailed explanation of the purpose of travel, whether for humanitarian, educational, or employment reasons. It is crucial to submit valid identification and evidence demonstrating ties to the U.S. to ensure the application is properly reviewed.
Understanding Travel Restrictions for DACA Recipients
DACA recipients must submit specific paperwork to request a travel document known as Advance Parole. Essential forms include Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, along with a copy of your DACA approval notice.
Understanding travel restrictions for DACA recipients is crucial before applying. Travel outside the United States requires careful consideration due to legal limitations and potential risks of re-entry denial. Securing Advance Parole enables travel for educational, employment, or humanitarian purposes while maintaining protection under DACA status.
Essential Travel Documents Required for DACA Holders
DACA recipients must submit specific paperwork when requesting a travel document, also known as advance parole. Essential travel documents include Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, along with a copy of the current DACA approval notice and employment authorization card.
Proof of the purpose of travel, such as humanitarian, educational, or employment reasons, must accompany the application. A valid passport or national ID is necessary to verify identity and citizenship status during the application process.
Advance Parole: Application Process and Eligibility
| Document | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Form I-131, Application for Travel Document | Primary application form used to request Advance Parole for DACA recipients | Requesting permission to re-enter the United States after temporary foreign travel |
| Proof of DACA Status | Copy of current DACA approval notice or employment authorization document | Verifies eligibility under Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program |
| Cover Letter | Written explanation of the reason for travel, detailing urgent humanitarian, educational, or employment reasons | Supports the eligibility claim for Advance Parole |
| Proof of Employment or Enrollment | Recent pay stubs, employment verification letter, or school enrollment records | Demonstrates ties to the U.S. and purpose of travel |
| Identification Documents | Copy of passport, state ID, or other government-issued ID | Establishes identity |
| Filing Fee or Fee Waiver Request | Fee submission or request for exemption based on financial hardship | Covers USCIS processing costs |
Eligibility criteria for Advance Parole include urgent humanitarian reasons, educational purposes such as study abroad programs, or valid employment opportunities outside the United States. You must maintain active DACA status and cannot have certain disqualifying factors like outstanding removal orders. USCIS reviews applications carefully and may require additional evidence or an interview. Processing times typically vary, so it is essential to apply well in advance of planned travel.
Preparing Supporting Evidence for Advance Parole
Preparing supporting evidence for an Advance Parole travel document is essential for DACA recipients to demonstrate the purpose of their travel. Proper documentation helps USCIS understand the necessity and validity of the trip.
- Proof of Humanitarian, Educational, or Employment Purpose - Submit letters or documentation explaining the reason for travel, such as a medical emergency, educational program, or job-related activity.
- Supporting Identification Documents - Include copies of your current DACA approval notice, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), and a valid government-issued ID or passport.
- Evidence of Ties to the United States - Provide documentation like school enrollment, employment verification, or family connections to demonstrate strong community ties and intent to return.
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing Form I-131
Requesting a travel document for DACA recipients requires precise completion of Form I-131. Understanding each step ensures a smoother application process.
- Gather Required Documentation - Collect proof of DACA status, identity, and reason for travel before filling out the form.
- Complete Form I-131 Accurately - Provide personal information, travel details, and purpose of the trip as specified in the instructions.
- Submit with Filing Fee and Photos - Include the correct fee and two passport-style photos with the application package.
Following these steps carefully increases the likelihood of approval for your advance parole travel document.
Common Reasons for Advance Parole Denial
DACA recipients must complete Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, to request advance parole. Supporting documents include a copy of your DACA approval notice, a valid government-issued photo ID, and evidence of the reason for travel, such as a job offer or family emergency. Common reasons for advance parole denial involve criminal records, immigration violations, or incomplete application materials.
Travel Risks: Legal Considerations for DACA Recipients
DACA recipients must submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, along with evidence of current DACA status and a detailed reason for travel. Supporting documents include a copy of the most recent Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and proof of identity, such as a valid passport or state ID. Legal risks include potential denial due to past immigration violations, and travel may affect future applications for permanent residency.
Reentry Procedures and Customs Guidelines
What paperwork is necessary to request a travel document for DACA recipients? DACA recipients must file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, to request advance parole. Supporting documents include a copy of the DACA approval notice, valid identity proof, and a detailed explanation of the travel purpose.
How do reentry procedures affect DACA recipients traveling with a travel document? Upon reentry to the U.S., Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers will verify the advance parole document along with valid identification. DACA recipients must present the original travel document and be prepared to answer questions regarding their trip to ensure smooth reentry.
What customs guidelines should DACA recipients follow when returning to the United States? Travelers must comply with all CBP regulations, including declaring items and adhering to prohibited goods policies. Carrying travel documents and DACA proofs helps prevent delays or complications during customs inspection.
Maintaining DACA Status While Traveling Abroad
DACA recipients must file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, to request advance parole before traveling abroad. This document allows them to maintain their DACA status while outside the United States.
Supporting paperwork includes a copy of the approved DACA notice, a government-issued photo ID, and a detailed reason for travel such as humanitarian, educational, or employment purposes. USCIS requires evidence that travel will not jeopardize the recipient's re-entry or DACA status.
What Paperwork Is Necessary to Request a Travel Document for DACA Recipients? Infographic
