Understanding the Timeline: How Long Does It Take to Get Green Card After Advance Parole? (2024)

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(972)426-7464

EMAIL info@attlaw.com

(972)426-7464

EMAIL info@attlaw.com

(210) 890-4118

EMAIL info@attlaw.com

(346)241-0125

Embarking on the journey towards becoming a permanent resident in the United States is a multifaceted process that often involves obtaining advance parole, especially for those currently in the adjustment of status phase.

Advance parole is a crucial travel document that allows individuals who have not yet secured their Green Card the opportunity to travel abroad and re-enter the U.S. without jeopardizing their pending application.

At Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, we emphasize the importance of this document for maintaining lawful status while navigating the complexities of immigration procedures. This consideration for our client’s ability to travel and maintain their applications is part of our dedication to keeping families connected and enabling the continuous pursuit of their American dream.

The length of time it takes to obtain a Green Card after using advance parole can vary greatly depending on individual circ*mstances and the ever-changing landscape of immigration policy.

For those granted advance parole through their asylum application or adjustment of status, returning to the U.S lawfully is only part of the equation. The ultimate goal is achieving permanent residency, and our Houston-based law firm is committed to providing the professional and confidential assistance required to navigate this process.

Given the announcement of USCIS’s new fee structure, effective from April 2024, we stay updated on all such developments to ensure no unexpected surprises disrupt our clients’ immigration journey.

With our experience in immigration law, we at Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, serve as the steadfast ally and guide for our clients’ endeavors to secure a green card.

Understanding Advance Parole

Advance Parole is a vital travel document issued through the I-131 Application to immigrants who need to travel temporarily abroad. It’s critical for applicants, including DACA recipients, with pending immigration applications such as adjustment of status or asylum requests. This document permits re-entry into the United States without jeopardizing the existing applications.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Adjustment of status applicants

• Temporary Protected Status (TPS) beneficiaries

• Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients

• Asylum applicants or refugees

Those eligible must seek to preserve their immigration status and have filed an I-131 application for a travel document before leaving the U.S. Failing to obtain Advance Parole could lead to denials upon attempting to return and potential forfeiture of ongoing immigration applications.

Application Process:

• Complete Form I-131

• Include supporting documentation

• Submit the required filing fee, if applicable

The filing fee can vary; in many cases, there’s no USCIS fee for those who filed a Form I-485 with a fee after July 30, 2007. It’s crucial to understand the specific fee structure related to your case and whether you are eligible for a fee waiver.

Holding an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) may allow you to travel, but only with Advance Parole is travel considered without risk to an ongoing status adjustment application. Upon return with Advance Parole, individuals can often continue their pursuit towards permanent residency.

We at Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, are committed to guiding through each step. For tailored advice and assistance regarding travel on an Advance Parole Document and its impact on your green card application, contact us, and ensure you protect your immigration pathway.

The Path to Green Card After Advance Parole

The journey to becoming a permanent resident through Advance Parole often begins with the Adjustment of Status (AOS) process using Form I-485. As dedicated immigration attorneys, we guide our clients through the complexities of obtaining their Green Card after traveling abroad with Advance Parole.

When an adjustment of status applicant travels outside the United States, it is essential to have Advance Parole to re-enter the country. This Advance Parole travel document signifies that though you have a pending application, you intend to return and await your permanent residency ruling. The Form I-131, the Application for Travel Document, is what you need to secure Advance Parole.

Upon return with Advance Parole, the previous status is considered preserved, allowing the continuation of the permanent residence application process. The Green Card application remains pending until adjudicated by the USCIS.

It is imperative to understand the importance of maintaining the integrity of your Adjustment of Status application while awaiting your Permanent Resident Card. Having an Advance Parole and proper re-entry permits assures a smoother transition without affecting your pending AOS.

As a firm deeply passionate about family-based immigration, we ensure that all aspects of your travel and re-entry are aligned with the objective of reuniting and keeping families together.

Trust us to navigate you through the Advance Parole to Green Card path with our proven experience, diligence, and the tailored attention each client deserves. For those needing assistance with the specifics of the Application for Travel Document, our experience in handling such matters can be pivotal in achieving your immigration goals.

The journey from obtaining an Advance Parole document to becoming a permanent resident is a path frequented by many of our clients. At Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, we see the green card acquisition as a multi-stage process.

Advance Parole Processing Time: The USCIS usually processes an Advance Parole travel authorization document in 3-5 months. This document is crucial for those who need to travel abroad temporarily while awaiting their green card. Traveling without it may have serious implications, including potentially forfeiting your application for permanent residence.

Adjustment of Status: After you’re back in the United States with a valid Advance Parole, the following course is the adjustment of your status to that of a permanent resident. This stage can vary in duration but currently averages around 8-14 months as of 2024.

Factors Affecting Timeline:

• Processing time varies based on the type of green card applied for and the current USCIS caseload.

• Expedite requests for humanitarian reasons may result in faster processing.

• Accuracy and completeness of application can avoid delays.

For Example: In a recent case, our team assisted a family whose primary applicant was on Advance Parole. Their meticulous case preparation allowed us to expedite processing for pressing humanitarian reasons. As a result, they achieved permanent resident status in under a year.

It’s prudent to note that each case at Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, is handled with a unique, tailored approach. We emphasize integrity and personal attention for your legal immigration needs.

With our experienced guidance, we stand committed to navigating you through the complexities and toward a successful green card approval.

How Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law in Houston Can Help

As experienced immigration attorneys, we understand the complexities of obtaining a green card after advance parole.

Our legal assistance extends to navigating the entire process, offering personalized support tailored to your unique situation. We can provide guidance on visa processing, eligibility, and the required supporting documents.

Navigating the Green Card Process: From the moment you seek to reunify your family under the Family Unity Program or adjust your status from the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), we can lead you through each step.

Clients benefit from our familiarity with the system and our capacity to handle the intricate details of filing instructions.

• Eligibility Assessment: We evaluate your situation to affirm your eligibility.

• Document Preparation: Our attorneys guide you in gathering and preparing all necessary supporting documents, ensuring everything is in order for submission.

• Filing Instructions: We provide detailed directives on accurately filing for a Green Card, maximizing the chances of success without unnecessary delays.

We take pride in making the adjustment of status process as smooth as possible. Our commitment to professional and confidential advice is reflected in how we handle cases, considering every aspect. Our track record speaks for itself, with thousands of families assisted in achieving legal status.

Should you require a competent review of your case or need to understand the checklist associated with the adjustment of status, do not hesitate to consult a skilled attorney. Trust in our dedication and let us guide you to the desired results.

Conclusion

You must be patient and knowledgeable when navigating the path to a Green Card after receiving Advance Parole. The timeline will vary depending on individual circ*mstances, and we cannot promise a definitive duration.

However, once an individual re-enters the U.S. on Advance Parole, the Green Card processing could take several months to more than a year. During this time, it is vital to:

• Adhere strictly to all immigration laws and guidelines.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation.

• Promptly respond to any requests from USCIS.

At Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, our experience lies in understanding and effectively managing the intricacies of the immigration process. We recognize the importance of family, and we strive to assist every family member with their immigration needs, working diligently to keep families together.

We invite you to contact us directly for a tailored action plan. Our experience and integrity testify to our commitment to helping immigrants. If you find yourself amid the complexities of the immigration system, we offer professional, confidential legal advice to guide you through any citizenship and immigration services you may need.

Contact us for support specifically attuned to your journey towards permanent residency in the United States, including after issuance of Advance Parole. Let’s work together to achieve your American dream.