Form I-131A Guide

USCIS evaluates whether the applicant has been lawfully admitted as an LPR or conditional LPR and if they have traveled abroad temporarily without abandoning their status. A common mismatch occurs when applicants fail to provide evidence of their lost or damaged travel documents, which is crucial for processing Form I-131A.

• Include a copy of your valid Permanent Resident Card or Reentry Permit if available.
• Provide documentation of any lost or damaged travel documents.
• Attach Form I-797 if applicable to demonstrate pending applications.
• Submit two recent passport-style photographs that meet the requirements.
• Ensure translations are certified and include the translator's information.
• Gather any additional supporting documents as specified in the instructions.

• Missing required evidence such as photographs or documentation of travel document loss.
• Inaccurate or incomplete information in the application, such as incorrect personal details.
• Failure to provide a valid signature, which is essential for application acceptance.
• Not including a copy of all pages of your original passport, including the biographic page.

• Valid signature of the applicant or legal guardian.
• Two recent passport-style photographs.
• Evidence of lawful permanent resident status.
• Filing fee as per Form G-1055.
• Translations of any foreign language documents.
• Contact information for the interpreter, if applicable.
• Proof of travel document loss, theft, or damage.
• Any additional supporting documents as specified.

• Carrier Documentation

  Prepare to provide evidence of your lawful permanent resident status and any supporting documents related to your travel.

• Expired Permanent Resident Card

  If applicable, include documentation showing your expired card and any related Form I-797.

• Returning Resident Visa

  Consider if a returning resident visa may be more appropriate for your situation.

• General Instructions

  Follow the instructions carefully to ensure all required information and evidence is included.

• Address Change

  If your address has changed, provide the updated information as required.

• Processing Information

  Be aware of the processing times and any potential need for a biometrics appointment.

• DHS Privacy Notice

  Review the privacy notice to understand how your information will be used.

• Paperwork Reduction Act

  Understand your rights regarding the information collection process.

• Part 1. Applicant's Information
• Part 2. Eligibility Information
• Part 3. Travel Information
• Part 4. Applicant's Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature
• Part 5. Interpreter's Contact Information, Certification, and Signature
• Part 6. Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Application, if Other Than the Applicant
  • Country of Birth
  • Country of Citizenship
  • USCIS Online Account Number (if applicable)
  • Signature of the Applicant
  • What Is the Purpose of Form I-131A?
  • Warnings
  • Replacing or Renewing Your Permanent Resident Card
  • Who May File Form I-131A?
  • Document (with travel endorsement);
  • travel endorsement), has not been revoked;
  • Who is NOT eligible to receive Carrier Documentation?
  • was lost, stolen, destroyed, or damaged;

• Evidence of identity (passport, government ID, or USCIS-issued document).
• Evidence of current immigration status or admission/parole.
• Evidence that supports the eligibility category selected.
• Evidence of any required family relationship or sponsorship.

• Missing signature on the application.
• Submitting original documents when only copies are required.
• Not including the filing fee or evidence of payment.
• Photographs not meeting the specified size or quality.
• Inaccurate or incomplete information in the application.
• Failure to provide translations for documents in a foreign language.

• Situation: An applicant is preparing I-131A and must include all required evidence. Task: They submit a complete packet within a 30-day preparation window. Action: They compile identity records, eligibility evidence, and the filing fee before submitting. Result: The petition is accepted without a request for missing items.
• Situation: A filer is close to a deadline for I-131A. Task: They submit within the required 90-day timeline. Action: They finalize the packet and file within the stated window. Result: The case proceeds without a late-filing issue.
• Situation: A petitioner must reference a receipt number. Task: They match the receipt number to the underlying petition. Action: They include the exact receipt number on I-131A and attach the notice copy. Result: USCIS can verify the underlying filing quickly.

• Carrier Documentation guarantees entry into the U.S.; it only facilitates boarding and does not ensure admission.
• You can submit original documents without request; originals may be destroyed if submitted unnecessarily.
• A stamped signature is acceptable; only handwritten signatures are valid for the application.
• Form I-131A can be used to replace a Permanent Resident Card; it cannot be used for that purpose.
• You do not need to provide photographs; however, two identical color passport-style photographs are required.

This guide is based on the official instructions for Form I-131A, ensuring that you have the most accurate and current information. It is designed to help you navigate the application process effectively, providing non-legal advice to assist in your filing.

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