The Importance of Travel Documents from USCIS
Traveling is an exciting adventure, but before you pack your bags and hop on that plane, it is crucial to ensure that you have all the necessary travel documents, particularly if you are traveling internationally. In the United States, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is responsible for processing and issuing travel documents to US citizens, lawful permanent residents, and non-immigrants. In this article, we will dive into everything you need to know about travel documents from USCIS.
What are Travel Documents from USCIS?
Travel documents from USCIS are official documents issued to travel internationally. These documents may include a US passport, passport card, Green Card, re-entry permit, refugee travel document, and advance parole document.
US Passport
The most common travel document issued by USCIS is a US passport. A passport is an official government document that certifies the identity and citizenship of the bearer. If you plan to travel internationally, you must have a passport to enter other countries and re-enter the United States. You can apply for a US passport at a Passport Acceptance Facility, which can be found at many post offices and courthouses across the country.
Passport Card
Another travel document from USCIS is a passport card, which is a wallet-size card that permits travel to and from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry. However, a passport card cannot be used for international air travel.
Green Card
A Green Card, or permanent resident card, is a travel document issued by USCIS to lawful permanent residents (LPR) of the United States. As a Green Card holder, you can travel freely within the United States, but if you plan to travel internationally for more than one year, you must apply for a re-entry permit.
Re-entry Permit
A re-entry permit is a travel document issued by USCIS to a Green Card holder who plans to travel internationally for more than one year but less than two years. The permit will allow the Green Card holder to re-enter the United States as an LPR.
Refugee Travel Document
A refugee travel document is a travel document issued by USCIS to a refugee or an asylee who has been granted asylum in the United States. The document permits the holder to travel internationally and is valid for one year.
Advance Parole Document
An advance parole document is a travel document issued by USCIS to a non-immigrant who is awaiting adjustment of status to become a Green Card holder. The document allows the person to re-enter the United States after traveling abroad while their Green Card application is in process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having the correct travel documents from USCIS is essential for anyone planning to travel internationally. They not only certify your identity and citizenship, but they also allow you to re-enter the United States after traveling abroad. Be sure to apply for the appropriate travel document for your specific circumstances and plan ahead to allow sufficient time for processing. Safe travels!
