Advance Parole
Advance Parole is a travel document that allows certain individuals to return to the United States after traveling abroad without abandoning their pending application or status.
Key Information
Who Needs It
Individuals with pending I-485, DACA recipients, Temporary Protected Status holders, and others who need permission to travel and return.
Important Warning
Traveling without Advance Parole while I-485 is pending may result in abandonment of your application. Some visa holders (H-1B, L-1) may travel on valid visas instead.
Combo Card
USCIS often issues a combo card (EAD/AP) that serves as both employment authorization and travel document.
Validity Period
Typically valid for 1-2 years. Must have valid AP when departing the U.S. and when seeking re-entry.
Recent Policy Changes
New $1,000 immigration parole fee collected upon re-entry (Oct 2025). Online filing now available for DACA recipients (Aug 2025). Several categorical parole programs (CHNV, U4U) terminated or suspended. Processing holds for applicants from high-risk countries (Jan 2026).
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The information provided by Immigration Assistant is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal questions or advice regarding your immigration status, please consult a qualified immigration attorney. Immigration laws and policies are subject to change, and individual circumstances may vary.