Renewing and extending advanced parole has become increasingly important for those who wish to travel in and out of the United States. Advanced parole is an immigration document that allows those with non-immigrant visa status to leave the United States, re-enter for a specific reason, and then return home safely. This is typically used by those who want to travel outside the country for business or pleasure. However, it’s important to note that your advance parole will expire after two years. This means you must renew it before it expires to continue traveling without issue. It is also possible to extend this period depending on your needs.

What is Advanced Parole?

Advanced Parole is a permit that allows non-US citizens to re-enter the United States after traveling abroad. It is issued by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and helps to maintain lawful status while outside of the United States. Advanced Parole can be used for many reasons, including;

1. Travel for Humanitarian
2. Educational
3. Employment Purposes

It is important to remember that obtaining Advance Parole does not guarantee entry into the US—it is ultimately up to the discretion of the Immigration Officer or Border Patrol agent at the port of entry who will make a final determination.

Benefits of having Advance Parole

Advance parole is a great opportunity for travelers who are in the US on a temporary visa and want to travel outside of the US without violating their immigration status. Advance parole holders can travel outside of the US, whether for business, pleasure or to visit family and friends, without having to apply for a regular visa. It also acts as an assurance that you will be able to re-enter the US safely and legally after traveling abroad.

Furthermore, it can be beneficial if you are in the US on a temporary visa only, as it allows you to keep your immigration status active without having to return to your home country, which may not be feasible at certain points in time. Advance parole document holders can also take advantage of certain travel-related benefits such as entry into frequent traveler programs or obtaining discounted airfare tickets.

Documents Required for Renewal

Before applying for a renewal of your advanced parole, you must provide certain documents to demonstrate your eligibility:

1. A copy of your previous advance parole document.
2. Documentation of any changes in the information you provided on your application (such as a new address or contact information).
3. Proof of any identity changes, such as a name change or change of citizenship.
4. Documentation that illustrates how you are maintaining an impactful presence in the U.S., such as proof of employment or educational enrollment records.
5. A letter from a qualifying family member requesting an advance parole renewal on behalf of the applicant.

Documents Required for Extension

In addition to the documents mentioned above, if you are extending your advanced parole, you must also provide:

1. An explanation of why you need an extension.
2. A letter from someone attesting to your good moral character and ties in the United States.
3. Documentation that explains why you couldn’t complete travel within the designated time frame.

By gathering all these important documents beforehand, you can significantly reduce processing times when applying for renewal or extension of advance parole documents.

Procedures Involved with Renewing and Extending Advance Parole

Renewing and extending advance parole can be a confusing process. That’s why it is important to understand the procedures involved, so you don’t miss or misinterpret any critical steps.

• Application Requirements- You will need to submit an I-131 form Application for Travel Document, as well as a filing fee. You must also provide evidence of your identity and your citizenship or residency. Any additional evidence that could be relevant to your application should accompany it.

• Filing the Application- Once you have all the documents and materials ready, you must send them to the USCIS address listed on the form. You will then receive confirmation that the application has been accepted for processing and your receipt number for future reference.
• Review Process- The USCIS will then review your application and send you a decision letter along with a new Advance Parole card if approved. It is important to note that if your application is denied, you may appeal the decision or reapply after 180 days.

Before Filing the Renewal and Extension

Once you have decided to renew and extend your advanced parole, there are a few important things to keep in mind before you file the paperwork. You should double-check that all of your documents are up-to-date and accurate. Here are a few steps to ensure the renewal and extension process goes smoothly:

• Make sure all forms, including the I-130 (if applicable), I-134, etc., are filled out perfectly and all appropriate signatures have been obtained.
• Obtain a copy of your birth certificate, driver’s license, or other proof of identity as well as any other required documents.
• Once all the documents have been collected, send them to the USCIS address specified on the form with a money order or check for the appropriate fees. It is important to note that advance parole can be revoked if these fees are not paid promptly or if there is any discrepancy with the paperwork submitted.
• Have your passport ready and make sure it is valid for at least six months into the future from when you plan on returning from abroad – this is necessary for reentry into the U.S.
• Complete Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) if you plan on working abroad during your extended stay outside of the country – keep in mind that this form must be filed separately from renewal/extension forms. 

How to File Form I-131 to Renew or Extend Advanced Parole? 

For those with advanced parole, it is critical to ensure that it is properly renewed or extended to avoid being denied re-entry. The process begins with individuals completing and submitting the I-131 form.

The form should be filled out accurately with all required information as outlined in the instructions. Furthermore, applicants must adhere to the specific filing instructions; this includes sending in two passport-style photos and all applicable fees. Once submitted, the document will be reviewed and require approval from the USCIS.

Applicants must review their original advance parole documents before submitting a new application for renewal or extension. The reasons for travel must align with those listed on the current I-510, otherwise granting of any new documents may be denied.

To track the progress of their application, individuals can use their Case Status Online tool (CSO) available on the USCIS website. It is also important to keep copies of all forms and documents that are sent back and forth between both parties as they provide proof that an application was submitted and processed correctly at each step of the way.