I-131 processing time: travel document (advance parole, reentry permit)

Form I-131 is the application for a travel document, such as advance parole, a reentry permit or a refugee travel document. Figures come from USCIS reports and are updated when USCIS publishes new data.

Average processing time14.4 monthsDecided in the latest quarter (USCIS)
Pending applications120,768End of the quarter
Filed in the quarter21,90413,551 approved and 1,255 denied

I-131 by type

April–June 2026, national figures.

TypeAvg. monthsFiledDecidedPending
Application for Travel Documents, Parole Documents, and Arrival/Departure Records14.421,90414,806120,768
Application for Advance Parole Document for Aliens Inside the United States5.8113,62761,991425,511
Parole in Place14.65,3521,38029,022
Application for Initial Parole Document for Aliens Outside the United States—64463032,373

Is my case taking too long?

Enter the date to compare your wait with the 14.4-month average.

Questions

How long does I-131 take right now?

On average 14.4 months, from the date USCIS received the application to its decision, for cases decided in the latest quarter. Your case can be faster or slower depending on your office and on whether USCIS asks for more evidence.

Why is the USCIS website showing a different number?

The USCIS processing times tool shows how long it took to complete 80% of cases at a given office. The figures here are averages from USCIS reports to Congress and quarterly data. Both come from USCIS; they measure different things.

When can I ask USCIS about my I-131?

USCIS accepts a case inquiry once your case is outside the normal processing time for your form and office. Use the date on your receipt notice to compare.

Statuses you will see on an I-131

Sources: USCIS reports to Congress (latest available); USCIS “Number of Service-wide Forms by Quarter, Form Status, and Processing Time” (April–June 2026). This page is general information, not legal advice.