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Home » Guide to Form I-131, Application for Travel Document

Form I-131, Application for Travel Document

Form i-131 overview for:, form i-131 explained, what is form i-131 used for.

Certain non-citizens can file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document , to obtain various travel documentation. The application has different uses depending on the non-citizen's immigration status in the United States. When filing, applicants may request the following types of travel documents from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS):

Reentry Permit

Refugee travel document, advance parole travel document, humanitarian parole.

Form I-131 is different than Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation). Permanent residents use Form I-131A to obtain travel authorization after losing a green card or reentry permit while traveling outside the United States.

Eligibility to Apply for a Travel Document

Who needs form i-131.

Eligibility to file Form I-131 is dependent on the travel document type. Each travel document has specific criteria. In some cases, immigration status may also affect filing requirements. CitizenPath's Travel Document Package is an online service created by immigration attorneys. It's an affordable way to confirm eligibility and prepare the application correctly.

Permanent residents who anticipate an absence from the United States or one year or more should generally apply for a Reentry Permit. A green card is typically sufficient to reenter the U.S. after trips of less than one year. However, there is a presumption that you've abandoned your permanent residence when the absence is one year or more. A Reentry Permit helps mitigate this problem. With the exception of having to obtain a returning resident visa abroad, a reentry permit does not exempt you from compliance with any of the requirements of U.S. immigration laws. In other words, it is still important that you haven't taken actions that suggest you've abandoned your green card. Learn more about Reentry Permits >>

Individuals with asylum or refugee status generally must have a Refugee Travel Document to return to the United States after temporary travel abroad. In most cases, a refugee or asylee may use the Refugee Travel Document for travel in place of a passport. This is helpful because many lack a passport from their home country. In fact, the Refugee Travel Document is similar in appearance to a U.S. passport. Permanent residents, who obtained such status as an asylee or refugee, may also need a Refugee Travel Document in place of a passport. Learn more about Refugee Travel Documents >>

Advance Parole

Non-citizens who are in the United States (typically waiting for a more permanent immigration status) may be able to request Advance Parole. If eligible, Advance Parole is necessary to return to the United States after temporary travel abroad.

Although there are other eligible status, individuals with a pending Form I-485 (adjustment of status applicants) and recipients of Temporary Protected Status, use Advance Parole for brief trips. Generally, if you have applied for adjustment to that of a permanent resident, USCIS will deem your application abandoned if you leave the United States without first obtaining Advance Parole. When issued in combination with an Employment Authorization Card, Advance Parole is issued directly on the card (as pictured). Learn more about Advance Parole >>

I-131 Online Filing Options

Can form i-131 be filed online.

At this time, there is no way to submit Form I-131 to USCIS electronically, but you can prepare the form with an online service to make sure you prepare it correctly.

USCIS has not introduced online filing for this form. Regardless, e-file doesn't necessarily mean you get quick processing. If you are interested a quick approval, focus on submitting a well-prepared application package. It’s the difference between saving a couple of days with online filing versus saving several weeks with smooth processing. What’s more, USCIS is not your advocate. They are not looking out for your best interests. If you include information that damages your immigration future, USCIS isn’t going to correct you.

For people who want to make sure they are preparing the application correctly, CitizenPath offers an affordable service created by immigration attorneys. CitizenPath’s Travel Document Package will make the application easy and give you alerts if there’s a problem. You’ll also receive detailed filing instructions so you know exactly which supporting documents to submit with your application. CitizenPath even provides a money-back guarantee that USCIS will approve your application for a travel document.

Form I-131 Instructions

How do i fill out i-131.

CitizenPath's easy-to-use website helps you prepare the application quickly and accurately. Our online service provides step-by-step I-131 instructions to make it easy. We even give you a money-back guarantee that USCIS will approve your application.

If you prefer to fill out the Form I-131 PDF, you can download instructions from USCIS or follow this summary of directions.

General Guidance

• Type or print answers in black ink only. 
• Enter “N/A” if an answer is not applicable and "NONE" if your answer is zero.
• Foreign language documents must be accompanied by a full English certified translation .
• Submit your application with the current USCIS filing fee . Use a personal check, money order, cashier’s check or use Form G-1450 to pay by credit card.
• Submit photocopies for all supporting documents unless an original document is specifically required.
• For Information About You , answer the general questions about name, address and birth. Carefully indicate how you were admitted to the United States or your current status that makes you eligible for a travel document.

Parts 2, 3, and 4

• For Application Type , select which type of travel document you are requesting. Your choices are very limited based on your immigration status. In rare situations, such as humanitarian parole, you may provide information about yourself in the remainder of the section.
• For Processing Information , supply answers regarding your intended travel, removal proceedings, and previous travel documents. Disposition is an explanation of what happened to the previously issued travel document. Speak to an immigration attorney before traveling outside the United States if you are in removal proceedings or have accrued any time in an unlawful presence. If you are requesting a Reentry Permit or Refugee Travel Document, you may provide address information if you wish that it be delivered abroad instead of your U.S. address.
• For Information About Your Proposed Travel , describe the purpose of the trip and which countries you intend to visit. Generally, there are no restrictions for permanent residents requesting a Reentry Permit for temporary travel. However, individuals who have (or have had) asylum or refugee status should avoid traveling back to their country of claimed persecution. Speak to an attorney first. Likewise, some Advance Parole applicants -- such as DACA -- are limited to specific reasons for travel.

Parts 5, 6, and 7

• For If Applying for a Re-entry Permit , complete the section only if you are requesting a Reentry Permit. Your past time outside the United States may affect the term of your new travel document. Speak to an attorney if you ever considered yourself a "nonresident" during your time as a green card holder.
• For If Applying for a Refugee Travel Document , complete the section only if you are requesting a Refugee Travel Document. Again, any asylee or refugee generally should not travel to their country of claimed persecution. If you must travel to that country, speak to an immigration attorney first.
• For If Applying for Advance Parole , complete the section only if you are requesting an Advance Parole Travel Document. Indicate if the document should be valid for a single use or multiple trips. Again, in limited circumstances, you may provide information about an overseas U.S. embassy or DHS office if the person intended to receive the document is abroad.

Parts 8 and 9

• For Applicant's Statement , sign your application with black ink. A surprising number of I-131 rejections are the result of applicants forgetting to sign or signing in the wrong place. Provide an email and U.S. phone numbers where USCIS can reliably reach you. USCIS will rarely call applicants, but they will use email.
• For Preparer , provide information if applicable. If you prepared your Form I-131, it’s only necessary to sign as the “applicant.” If another person prepared the application for you, be sure Part 9 is filled in and signed appropriately.

This is an abbreviated list of Form I-131 instructions. We highly recommend that you download USCIS instructions or use CitizenPath’s service to prepare the application. CitizenPath provides filing instructions customized to your situation. You’ll get detailed I-131 instructions that explain which supporting documents to submit, how to organize, and where to mail.

Filing Addresses for the Application

Where to file form i-131.

USCIS accepts the I-131 application via mail only. They do not want applicants to submit the form in-person at USCIS offices. USCIS has numerous filing addresses. The address depends on various factors such as the basis of eligibility, travel document type, and U.S. state of residence. For the most up-to-date address, refer to your CitizenPath filing instructions or use the USCIS I-131 direct filing addresses .

Although USCIS receives your application package at these locations, they will process them somewhere else. If you have an interview (rare), it will be at a USCIS field office near the home address you provide.

Form I-131 Processing Time

How long does it take to get a travel document.

USCIS is reporting I-131 processing times in excess of one year at their service centers. Check USCIS processing times for the latest estimates. The best way to ensure a smooth process and quick processing time is to prepare a complete and problem-free application. For this reason, CitizenPath customers generally experience the best processing times for USCIS travel documents.

Expedited processing of a travel document is available in certain situations. For a detailed description of plausible reasons and how to communicate your urgent need, see our article on expedited processing for travel documents .

Reporting for processing times only includes forms that were successfully filed. If an individual does not correctly prepare a form or otherwise does not satisfy eligibility requirements, USCIS will reject or deny these requests. For the most recent year, USCIS reported the following national statistics:

USCIS Rejections in 2023

MODERATE RISK

USCIS Denials in 2023

How citizenpath helps you, is there an inexpensive way to file the i-131 application.

CitizenPath's affordable, online service makes it easy to prepare Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. Designed by immigration lawyers, the Travel Document Package helps you eliminate the common errors that create delays, rejections and even denials. That's because the service alerts you when your answer to a question may be a problem. You'll also get customized filing instructions based on your situation. It's a powerful, do-it-yourself tool that puts you in control. And we've got your back -- CitizenPath provides live customer support and provides a money-back guarantee that USCIS will approve your application. Get started >>

Form I-131 Questions and Answers

The USCIS filing fee to submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, can vary significantly based on the type of travel document, age, and eligibility category. Use our pricing tool to determine your filing fee .

Generally, adjustment of status applicants may file I-131 "concurrently" with Form I-485 . Concurrently means that you can submit them together. This is the best way to get quick processing.

You may also file Form I-131 after filing Form I-485, but you'll need to wait until you receive the I-485 receipt notice. You'll need the receipt number so that USCIS can link the cases.

Generally, you must file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, from inside the United States. The granting of an Advance Parole Document for individuals outside the United States is an extraordinary measure used sparingly to allow an otherwise inadmissible non-citizen to travel to the United States and to seek parole into the United States for a temporary period of time due to urgent humanitarian reasons or for significant public benefit. Seek the advice of an immigration attorney if you are outside the United States and feel the need to file Form I-131.

You should apply for a Refugee Travel Document or Reentry Permit before you leave the United States. However, the travel document may be sent to a U.S. embassy, U.S. consulate, or DHS office abroad for you to pick up, if you make such a request when you file your application. Departure from the United States before a decision is made on the application usually does not affect the application decision. However, if biometrics collection is required and the applicant departs the United States before biometrics are collected, the application may be denied.

Permanent residents who are outside the United States for less than one year and lost a green card, may be able to file Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation), to obtain temporary document to return to the U.S.

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I-131: Application for Travel Document

What is form i-131.

Any non-U.S. citizen traveling outside the United States must file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document with the exception of permanent residents.

Immigrant/non-immigrant Visa Holders

• Foreigners with immigrant or non-immigrant visas must file Form I-131 when traveling outside the United States.
• Traveling within the United States do not require Form I-131.

Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders)

• If travel duration is less than 2 years , permanent residents are not required to file Form I-131 when traveling outside the United States.
• If travel duration is longer than 2 years , permanent residents must file Form I-131 when traveling outside the United States.
• Please note that for Permanent Residents who lose their green card while traveling outside of the United States, they must use Form 131A, Application for Travel Documents (Carrier Documentation) to obtain a reentry permit.

It is important applicants properly submit Form I-131 as failure to file I 131 may prevent the applicant from re-entering the country. When submitting, there are three types of travel documents for applicants:

• For green card holders who want to be outside of the United states for 1 year or more, they must apply for a re-entry permit in order to return to the country. Typically, a green card is enough to pass through customs back into the United States but only if the departure duration is for 1 year or less. Permit is only available for permanent residents and is valid for 2 years .
• This is only available for refugees and asylees who want to travel outside of the United States. Since people with refugee or asylum status do not have passports or green cards, they must apply for this travel document to be able to return to the country. The permit is valid for 1 year .
• Advance parole grants permission to reenter the United States for people who are adjustment of status applicants who are in transition and do not fall within any specific category of status, U visa holders, and those under a protected status. The permit is valid for 1 year .

While the USCIS does not require applicants to wait for approval before leaving the country, applicant should be aware the USCIS may request a fingerprinting appointment (biometrics service). Failing to show up at the appoint may lead to a rejection.

What are Form I-131 Instructions?

Filing fee and instructions for Form I-131 vary depending on the application type and age of the applicant.

Applicants under certain financial circumstances can file a fee waiver form (I-912) to waive the filing and biometric fees. An example of valid circumstance is an individual living at or below 150% of federal poverty guidelines . In addition, no additional fee is necessary if the applicant meets one of the following criteria:

• Filing Form I-131 as Application Type B or D
• Filed Form I-485 with a fee after July 29, 2007

Who is Eligible for Form I-131?

Form I-131 is an application for a re-entry permit, or travel document, designed for citizens and permanent residents of the United States. Any individual who has received a green card, or is a citizen of the United States, is eligible to submit Form I-131.

What is the Latest Form I-131 Edition?

The most recent edition of Form I-131 is dated 09/30/20.

What are the Required Documents for Form I-131?

1. Form I-131, Application for Travel Document 2. Copy of your valid nonimmigrant visa (if applicable) 3. Copy of your passport identification page 4. Proof of payment of the filing fee 5. Two passport-style photos 6. Evidence of latest legal status in the U.S. 7. Evidence of relationship to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (if applicable) 8. Evidence of employment authorization (if applicable) 9. Other relevant documentation (as applicable)

How to Submit Form I-131?

Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) is used to apply for various types of travel documents, such as advance parole, re-entry permits, and refugee travel documents. To submit the form, you must first download and print the form from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. After completing the form, you must gather supporting documents and submit them along with the form.

Once your form is completed and all the necessary documents are gathered, mail them to the USCIS address listed on the form instructions. Be sure to include the filing fee or an approved fee waiver request. If you require expedited processing, you must also include a request for expedited processing and provide proof of emergency situation. You can also submit your application electronically via USCIS’s e-Filing system.

After the USCIS receives your application, they may contact you if they need additional information or documents. After they complete their review of your application, they will make a decision regarding your request for a travel document.

What are the Filing Tips for Form I-131?

1. Ensure that you have all the necessary documents and information required for Form I-131.

2. Double check and make sure that all the information and documents you provide are accurate.

3. Make sure that you sign and date the form after completing it.

4. Include supporting documents such as passport photos, travel itineraries, and other supporting evidence of your identity and purpose of travel.

5. Submit your application and fees with certified check or money order made payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security”.

6. Mail your application and supporting documents to the address indicated on the form instructions, or submit online through USCIS ELIS if available to you.

7. Follow up on the status of your application with the processing time indicated on the USCIS website for Form I-131.

Are There Special Instructions for Form I-131?

Yes, there are special instructions for Form I-131. The form is used to apply for a re-entry permit, refugee travel document, or advance parole travel document. Depending on the document you are applying for, there are different instructions and fees you must follow.

You will need to provide evidence of your valid immigration status in the United States, and proof of identity. You will also need to submit proof of a valid purpose for travel and evidence of why you need the travel document. You may be asked to provide additional supporting evidence and documents.

You must also pay the filing fee, which can range from $575 to $575 for a re-entry permit or $575 for a refugee travel document or advance parole travel document. Additionally, if you are applying from outside the United States, you must pay an additional biometrics fee of $85.

When completing the form, you must provide detailed information about yourself and your travels. You must also make sure all information is accurate and truthful; any false or incomplete information may lead to delays or denials in your application.

Once your application is complete and all fees have been paid, you should submit your application to the office listed on Form I-131’s instructions.

What is the Form I-131 Fee?

The Form I-131 Fee is the fee that must be paid when filing Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The fee for Form I-131 is currently $575, although certain applicants may be eligible for a fee waiver or reduced fee.

Can I Apply for Form I-131 Fee Waiver or Reduction?

Yes, you can apply for a Form I-131 fee waiver or reduction if you meet certain requirements. To be eligible, you must: have a low income and financial hardship, be the immediate relative of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, or be an asylum applicant. Additionally, you must provide evidence that the fee would create a significant financial hardship for you or your family. If you meet these requirements, you must submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, along with your application for Form I-131.

What is the Form I-131 Processing Time?

The processing time for Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) can vary depending on the type of travel document you are requesting and your current immigration status. Generally, processing times can range from 3-5 months but can take longer in some cases. Applicants should check the processing times on the USCIS website for the most up-to-date information.

Form I-131 Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Form I-131? A: Form I-131 is an application form used by non-U.S. citizens to obtain a travel document, such as a re-entry permit, advance parole, or refugee travel document.

Q: Who should file Form I-131? A: Anyone who is not a U.S. citizen and needs to travel outside the United States is required to file Form I-131. This includes people with permanent residence status (green card holders), refugees, and asylees.

Q: How much does it cost to file Form I-131? A: The fee for filing Form I-131 is currently $575 USD, which must be paid with a credit card, debit card, or check.

Q: How long does it take for Form I-131 to be processed? A: The processing time for Form I-131 varies depending on the type of application and the current workload of the USCIS. Generally, it can take anywhere from 1 to 6 months or more for an application to be processed.

Q: What documents do I need to file Form I-131? A: The documents required to file Form I-131 depend on the purpose of your application. Generally, you will need to provide proof of your identity, such as a passport or birth certificate, proof of your immigration status, such as a green card, and evidence of your travel plans.

Q: Where can I get more information about filing Form I-131? A: The USCIS website has detailed information about filing Form I-131, including instructions and requirements for each type of application. You can also reach out directly to the USCIS if you have any questions about your application.

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• EXPLORE Random Article

How to Apply for Travel Documents in the UK

Last Updated: February 22, 2022 References

This article was co-authored by Jennifer Mueller, JD . Jennifer Mueller is an in-house legal expert at wikiHow. Jennifer reviews, fact-checks, and evaluates wikiHow's legal content to ensure thoroughness and accuracy. She received her JD from Indiana University Maurer School of Law in 2006. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 5,161 times.

If you live in the UK but aren't a British citizen and can't get a passport from your home country, you might be able to get travel documents from the British Home Office if you need to travel outside the country. Generally, you're only eligible for travel documents if you're staying in the UK as a refugee or stateless person, or if you're settled in the UK permanently (what the Home Office calls "indefinite leave to remain"). You can apply for travel documents online through the Home Office, but you have to mail the completed application along with supporting documentation. If you don't have a biometric residence permit (BRP), you'll need to apply for one of those when you apply for your travel document. [1] X Trustworthy Source Official UK government website Official website for the public sector of the UK government Go to source

Choosing the Right Travel Document

• This travel document is typically valid for up to 10 years, depending on the validity of your biometric residence permit (BRP). You can travel to any country except your country of origin.

• Stateless travel documents are usually valid for 10 years, although they might be issued with a shorter validity depending on your situation. You can typically travel to any and all countries.
• You're only considered stateless if you are not recognized as a citizen of any country. Some refugees are stateless, but not all. If you're not sure if you've been officially recognized as stateless, you probably haven't. Fewer than 100 people in the UK have been recognized as stateless since the official determination procedure was started in 2014. [4] X Research source

• To get this documentation, apply for a passport using your home country's usual process. When your application is denied, save the original letter you get back from your home country.
• You also need to show why the denial was unreasonable. The Home Office considers a denial reasonable if, for example, you have a criminal record in your home country or did not provide enough evidence to confirm your identity.
• If you are granted a COT, it will typically have 5 years of validity. You can travel to any country with this document except for your country of origin.

• While you do need to provide documentation to confirm your identity, you don't need to apply for a BRP to use this type of travel document.
• This document is issued to any non-British citizen in the UK who doesn't have a passport and wants to leave the country. It can only be used for one journey out of the country and is valid for a year, although it's generally intended to be used immediately. [7] X Research source
• One-way travel documents are typically issued for travel to a specified country. If you have to travel through one country to get to your destination country, that country will also be listed on your document.

Filling out Your Application

• After you provide your location, you'll be asked to select which type of travel document you want to apply for. If you're not sure, click on the question so see who qualifies for each type.

Tip: If you don't feel comfortable using a computer or do not have internet access, you can get help over the phone by calling 03333 445 675. This phone line is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

• If you're applying for a one-way travel document, your document will only be valid for travel to the country you specified. However, all other travel documents are typically valid for travel to any country, except your country of origin or the country from which you sought asylum.
• If you're applying for a COT, you'll also need to discuss your process of applying for a passport from your country of origin and the reason your application for a passport was denied.

Tip: If members of your family are also applying for travel documents at the same time, you each have to apply online and pay your fees separately.

• The online application will ask you if you have a BRP. If you do, simply answer "yes." If you answer "no," the BRP application will come up for you to fill out.
• You will have to provide a digital photo and digital fingerprints along with your signature for your BRP. You can get these done at any government service and support center or post office branch. As of January 2020, the fee is £19.20 for biometrics. [11] X Trustworthy Source Official UK government website Official website for the public sector of the UK government Go to source

Warning: If you already have a BRP but need to amend or replace it, you must do this before you apply for your travel document. You can't use the application included with the travel document application.

• Refugee and stateless person's travel documents are £75 for adults, £49 for children under 15, and £0 if you were born before September 1, 1929.
• One-way travel documents are £75 for all adults (regardless of age) and £49 for children under 15.
• A COT is £280 for all adults (regardless of age) and £141 for children under 15.

Submitting Your Application

• If you're applying for a travel document as a refugee or stateless person, you'll need the British court order or certificate that shows you've been officially recognized as a refugee or stateless person, as well as your BRP.
• If you're applying for a COT, you need documents that prove that you applied for a passport from your home country and that application was unreasonably denied. This might include a letter from your home country's immigration authority or a copy of your passport application. A COT typically requires the most documentation.

Tip: Make a photocopy of your BRP to send with your application — do not send your original BRP. All other documents must be originals.

• There are many translation companies in the UK that offer professional translation services. You can find these companies with a quick internet search. You might also use the search engine provided by the Institute of Translation and Interpreting, a professional association of translators. Go to https://www.iti.org.uk/component/itisearch/?view=translators to find a translator who is a member of the association.

• Your signature will be scanned and digitally included on your travel documents.
• After you've signed your declaration page, make a photocopy of your entire application so you have it for your records.

• Scan the document and email it to [email protected] or fax it to 020 8196 0109.
• You still must include the paper originals of any documents you fax or email in your package that you send to the Home Office.

• Send your documents to: Travel Documents Section UK Visas and Immigration Lunar House 40 Wellesley Road Croydon CR9 2BY
• After verifying the information in your application, the Home Office returns documents that don't need to be kept with your application. If you want these documents returned to you by Special Delivery, include a prepaid Special Delivery envelope with your package.
• If you realize after you've sent your package that you left out a document, don't send it separately. Instead, wait to hear back from the Home Office. They will send you a letter to request any documents that are missing from your application package.

• It typically takes 3 to 4 months for the Home Office to process an application for a travel document. [19] X Research source

• If you're writing a physical letter, mail it to: Travel Documents Section UK Visas and Immigration Lunar House 40 Wellesley Road Croydon CR9 2BY
• You can also send an email to [email protected].

Expert Q&A

• Before you travel, check with the embassy or consulate of the country you want to visit and make sure your travel documents will be accepted at the border. You also may need a visa. [21] X Trustworthy Source Official UK government website Official website for the public sector of the UK government Go to source Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• The guidance notes, available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/apply-for-a-home-office-travel-document-form-td112-brp , provide more information about the process of applying for travel documents. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Don't book travel until you've received your travel document in case there are any delays or issues with the approval of your application. [22] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Don't apply for a travel document if you have less than 6 months' leave to remain in the UK. Your travel document will only be valid to the extent of your leave to remain in the UK and most countries won't accept travel documents with less than 6 months' validity. [23] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.gov.uk/apply-home-office-travel-document
• ↑ https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/752814/TD112_BRP_Guidance_Notes_11_2018.pdf
• ↑ https://files.institutesi.org/ISI_statistics_analysis_2018.pdf
• ↑ https://www.gov.uk/apply-home-office-travel-document/how-to-apply
• ↑ https://www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits/personal-data
• ↑ https://visas-immigration.service.gov.uk/product/travel-document
• ↑ https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/488177/Home_Office_travel_documents_guidance_v6.0EXT_clean.pdf

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Access the online DS-160 by clicking: Consular Electronic Application Center website .

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• Print and keep the DS-160 barcode page. (You will not need to print the full application.)
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• Entering and staying in the UK
• Travel and identity documents for foreign nationals
• Home Office travel documents: caseworker guidance
• UK Visas and Immigration

Travel documents: Home Office travel documents (accessible)

Published 29 August 2013

© Crown copyright 2013

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/travel-documents-home-office-travel-documents/travel-documents-home-office-travel-documents-accessible

About this guidance

This guidance tells you about the types of Home Office travel documents (HOTD) and:

• who qualifies for each type
• how applicants can apply for an HOTD
• how much they cost
• how applications are handled
• how applicants can change an HOTD

Changes to this guidance

This page tells you what has changed since the previous version of this guidance.

This page tells you who to contact for help on HOTD issues if your senior caseworker or line manager can’t answer your question.

Information owners

This page tells you about this version of the HOTD guidance and who owns it.

Safeguard and promote child welfare

This page explains your duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and tells you where to find out more information.

This page lists changes to the Home Office travel documents guidance, with the most recent at the top.

29 October 2013

Six month review by the modernised guidance team:

• Home Office travel document application form changed to ‘TD112 BRP’ from ‘TD112’
• page renamed from ‘Biometric information Home Office travel documents’
• page renamed from ‘How the UK Border Agency handles Home Office travel document applications’

26 April 2013

• minor housekeeping changes

For previous changes to this category you will find all earlier versions in the archive. See related link: Home Office travel documents - Archive.

Types of Home office travel document (HOTD)

This section tells you about the types of Home Office travel documents (HOTD.

The following types of HOTD are issued to people present in the UK. See related links for more information:

• convention travel document (CTD)
• stateless person’s document (SPD)
• certificate of travel (COT)
• one-way document (IS137).

All HOTDs must be applied for individually. Children cannot be included in parents’ applications or documents.

All applications for a HOTD are considered by the travel documents section (TDS).

Most HOTDs are valid for travel to all countries, except those from which the holder sought asylum, and/or the holder’s country of origin. The HOTD is described as being closed for travel to these countries.

If there are no restrictions on travelling, the HOTD is valid for travel to all countries. These HOTDs are known as open.

Convention travel document

This page explains what a convention travel document (CTD) is and who can apply for one.

CTDs can be issued to people recognised in the UK as refugees under the terms of the 1951 United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees.

CTDs are normally valid:

• in line with the holder’s leave to enter or remain in the UK, or
• for a maximum of 10 years for those with indefinite leave to enter or remain.

They usually allow travel to any country, except the holder’s country of origin and/or the country from which they sought asylum. The travel restrictions for CTDs mean they are a closed Home Office travel document (HOTD).

CTDs have a dark blue cover.

Mandatory cases

A mandatory case is one that results in the issue of a HOTD. An application from:

• a person recognised as a refugee, or
• a person who entered the UK on a family reunion entry clearance to join a recognised refugee sponsor

falls into this category, and they are entitled to a CTD. The travel documents section (TDS) can only refuse an otherwise valid application in this category on the grounds of national security, or for compelling public order reasons.

A CTD can be withdrawn before it expires if appropriate, particularly if the holder no longer has valid permission to remain in the UK. The issue of a CTD does not prevent other action being taken, including the removal of refugee status, or permission to remain in the UK.

Dependants of refugees

If a dependant enters the UK with entry clearance endorsed ‘family reunion’, TDS must check the status of the sponsor. If the sponsor is a recognised refugee and had that status at the time of the entry clearance application, and the dependant was part of the pre-flight family unit, a CTD can be issued to the dependant. The dependant must make their own application for a CTD.

Stateless person’s document

This page explains what a stateless person’s document (SPD) is and who can apply for one.

A stateless person is someone who is not considered as a national by any state under the operation of its law.

The travel documents section (TDS) issue SPDs to certain categories of people under the terms of the 1954 United Nations Convention relating to the status of Stateless Persons.

The document is valid for up to 10 years, depending on the holder’s leave to enter or remain. It is normally valid for travel to all countries.

An SPD can be withdrawn before it expires if appropriate, particularly if the holder no longer has valid permission to remain in the UK. The issue of an SPD does not prevent other action being taken, including the removal of refugee status, or permission to remain in the UK.

SPDs have a red cover.

TDS senior caseworkers consider applications for SPDs.

Certificate of travel

This page explains what a certificate of travel (COT) is and who can apply for one.

COTs are issued to people who do not qualify for convention travel documents or stateless person’s travel documents.

Until 17 March 2008, the COT was called a certificate of identity (CID). A CID has a brown cover, a COT has a black cover and contains biometric features. CIDs continue to remain valid for travel until they reach their individual expiry date.

To be eligible for a COT, applicants must have been formally and unreasonably refused a passport by their own authorities and have either been:

• granted indefinite leave to enter or remain in the UK, or
• refused asylum, but granted humanitarian protection or discretionary leave to remain in the UK

COTs are usually valid for travel to any country, except the holder’s country of origin and/or the country they sought asylum from.

A COT can be withdrawn before it expires if appropriate, particularly if the holder no longer has valid permission to remain in the UK. The issue of a COT does not prevent other action being taken, including the removal of refugee status, or permission to remain in the UK.

Some European countries may not accept COTs as valid travel documents. The holder of a COT must check the acceptability of the document and any visa requirements when planning their travel abroad.

One-way document (IS137)

This page explains what a one-way document (IS137) is and who can apply for one.

A one-way document (IS137) only allows travel for one journey out of the UK. The travel documents section (TDS) can issue an IS137 to anyone who is in the UK and is not British. Immigration status is not relevant, but the applicant must provide evidence of identity.

This document can be issued to people who wish to leave the UK permanently and voluntarily.

At the time of their application the applicant must state their country of destination and any countries they will pass through in transit. The applicant is responsible for making the necessary applications for visas and making sure the authorities in the country of destination will accept them.

The IS137 is an A4-sized sheet of white paper. It includes a scanned photograph of the holder and their personal details.

An IS137 is valid for 12 months from the date of issue.

Application process for a Home Office travel document

This section explains the application process for a Home Office travel document (HOTD).

The information for applicants section explains:

• how people apply for an HOTD
• waiting times
• biometric HOTDs
• how applications from children are considered
• how applications from those undergoing gender reassignment are considered
• how applications from particular groups of people are considered, and
• how applicants can withdraw their application.

The Home Office travel document fees and refund policy section explains the cost of applying for an HOTD, ways to pay, and the refund policy.

The section on how Home Office travel document applications are handled explains how applications for an HOTD are screened and when applications will be rejected, refused or granted.

The section on how to change or replace a Home Office travel document explains how the travel documents section (TDS) deals with lost, stolen, expired or full HOTDs, or instances when the holder changes their personal details.

Information for applicants

How to apply for a home office travel document.

This page explains how applicants can apply for a Home Office travel document (HOTD).

To apply for an HOTD, applicants must complete application form TD112 BRP. To download form TD112 BRP and for guidance on how to complete the form, see related links:

• Home Office travel document application form TD112 BRP
• guidance notes for completing application form TD112 BRP
• guidance notes for photographs for application form TD112 BRP

Each applicant must pay a fee for their application. For more information on fees, see related link: Home Office travel document fees and refund policy.

An applicant must have at least six months leave to enter or remain in the UK on the date they apply for an HOTD, unless it is a one-way document.

The travel documents section (TDS) will reject any application if the applicant has less than six months leave in the UK. TDS will return all documents, including the TD112 BRP and photographs to the applicant with a letter explaining why the application has been rejected. TDS must update paper and electronic records with the reasons for rejecting the application.

Waiting times for a Home Office travel document

This page explains the current waiting times for a Home Office travel document (HOTD). Written confirmation is sent to applicants when their application(s) are received.

Applicants should not contact the Home Office to ask about the progress of their application unless they have been waiting longer than 14 weeks.

Applications to replace lost documents take longer because the loss must be investigated.

The travel documents section (TDS) deals with applications in the order they are received, unless an HOTD is needed because of a medical emergency or a family funeral. In these cases, the applicant must provide evidence of the emergency, for example a recent medical report, doctor’s report or death certificate. Applicants can fax this evidence to (020) 8196 0109. If evidence of the emergency is not sent, or if TDS decide it is not appropriate to give the application priority, TDS will deal with the application according to the date it was received.

Applicants must not make any arrangements to travel until they receive their HOTD.

For details of application processing times, see related link: How long will my application take?

How to apply for a child’s Home Office travel document

This page explains how applications for Home Office travel documents (HOTD) for children are considered.

A separate application form must be completed for each child. Children cannot be included on the same application form as their parent or guardian.

There is no minimum age for the issue of a child’s HOTD. Children under 16 can obtain a child’s HOTD.

A child’s HOTD has a lower application fee, but is normally valid for a shorter time than an adult HOTD.

Children must have at least six months valid leave to enter or remain at the time of application.

Children can travel on a British passport if they were born in the UK to a parent who was a:

• British citizen on the date of the child’s birth, or
• permanent resident of this country on the date of the child’s birth

If the child is 17 years old or under, a parent, person or body with parental responsibility must complete all parts of section 7 of the application form (TD112 BRP). Section 8 must not be signed.

If the child is 16 or 17 years old and does not have a parent, person or body with parental responsibility in the UK, they must provide a letter explaining the absence of anyone to give consent. Section 7.2 of the TD112 BRP must be completed and the child must sign section 8.

If the child’s parents are divorced or if there is, or has been, a custody case concerning the child, the child or their representative must provide the original divorce or custody papers.

Biometric Home Office travel documents

This page explains about biometric Home Office travel documents (HOTD). Biometric HOTDs were introduced on 17 March 2008.

The applicant’s scanned photograph is the biometric information element of the document.

All UK ports and European Union (EU) member states can read the data on the biometric chip.

Holders of non-biometric HOTDs can continue to use them until they expire. If they successfully apply for a new document the travel documents section (TDS) will issue them with a biometric HOTD.

Gender reassignment

This page explains how an application for a Home Office travel document (HOTD) from a person who has undergone, or is undergoing, gender reassignment is dealt with.

People who have undergone, or are in the process of undergoing, gender reassignment can apply for an HOTD in their new identity.

The applicant must provide the following documentary evidence:

• their birth certificate
• a change of name deed or statutory declaration confirming their change of name
• a letter from the hospital or consultant confirming that the applicant is to live in their new gender
• any passports they hold, both valid and expired

The Gender Recognition Act 2004 came into force on 1 April 2005. You have a duty of care not to disclose information regarding an individual’s new identity or gender. Travel documents section (TDS) caseworkers must exercise due care when dealing with these applications and refer them to a senior caseworker.

Applications from particular groups

This page explains how the travel documents section (TDS) deal with applications from Chinese and Hong Kong Chinese nationals.

Chinese nationals

TDS will usually issue a convention travel document (CTD), closed to China and to the Hong Kong special administrative area (SAR), to refugees from China.

Hong Kong Chinese nationals

Hong Kong Chinese nationals resident in the UK for many years can apply for a Home Office travel document (HOTD). TDS can issue a certificate of travel (COT) valid for five years and open for travel to all countries if:

• the applicant originally entered the UK on a Hong Kong certificate of identity (C of I), which is a green, hand-written book issued by the Hong Kong authorities that has now expired, and
• they have indefinite leave to remain (ILR)

TDS impound the Hong Kong C of I and send the HOTD to the applicant. TDS keep the impounded C of I in their passport bank.

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

This page explains how the travel documents section (TDS) deals with applications for people from the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

The British government does not recognise the TRNC as an independent state. TDS considers all applications made by people claiming to be Turkish Cypriots in the normal way.

The applicant’s nationality depends on where they were originally from, and this determines where the Home Office travel document (HOTD) will be closed to.

A Turkish national does not lose their Turkish nationality by settling in the TRNC, even if they adopt and use TRNC nationality documents. Applicants who were born in Cyprus, but who are descended from Turkish nationals, will be Turkish nationals. Children born in the TRNC to a Turkish parent are Turkish citizens from birth. In these cases their HOTD must record their nationality as Turkish and the HOTD will be closed to Turkey.

A person resident in the TRNC who is not a Turkish national will almost always be a citizen of the Republic of Cyprus. If it is not clear from the Home Office file which nationality the applicant is, the caseworker must assume that they are Cypriot and TDS will issue an HOTD showing their nationality as Cypriot and closed for travel to Cyprus.

TDS applies the above rules when issuing a convention travel document (CTD) or a certificate of travel (COT).

For more information on how TDS considers applications see related link: How Home Office travel document applications are handled.

The Gateway protection programme

This page explains about the Gateway protection programme and how the travel documents section (TDS) consider applications for Home Office travel documents (HOTD) from people resettled in the UK under this programme. The Gateway protection programme is operated in conjunction with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

Once a person is accepted under this programme and they have resettled in the UK, the person can apply to TDS for an HOTD.

The programme started in March 2004. At the start of the programme, individuals are assessed under the 1951 United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees. Some individuals were granted refugee status, and some exceptional leave. After a policy change in January 2006 refugee status is granted to all people accepted under the programme. A person recognised as a refugee under the programme is entitled to a convention travel document (CTD). For more information see related link: Convention travel document.

A person given exceptional leave under the programme is eligible for a certificate of travel (COT). These people would have been granted refugee status if they had been accepted under the programme after the policy change in January 2006. For this specific group of people, TDS do not need proof that their national authorities have refused them a passport before we will issue a COT. For more information see related link: Certificate of travel.

Withdrawing an application for a Home Office travel document

This page explains how an applicant can withdraw an application for a Home Office travel document (HOTD).

An applicant can decide at any time to withdraw their HOTD application. The applicant must inform the travel documents section (TDS) in writing they wish to do this. The applicant can send the letter by post or fax.

When TDS receive written confirmation that the applicant wishes to withdraw their application, they will return all supporting documentation to the applicant.

Home Office travel document fees and refund policy

This page explains the cost of applying for a Home Office travel document (HOTD), ways to pay, and the travel documents section’s (TDS) refund policy.

A fee must be sent with every application. The full application fee is also payable when:

• changing a name on an HOTD
• renewing an expired document
• replacing a document that is full, or
• replacing a lost or stolen document.

There is no fee for correcting an error on an HOTD if a mistake has been made by TDS. In these cases, the applicant must return their document within 28 days of issue.

If the error is the fault of the applicant or their representative, the full fee must be paid before a new document is issued.

For a list of the current fees payable, see related link: Cost of applying.

An applicant can pay by:

• postal order
• credit card - Visa, including Electron, or MasterCard only
• debit card - Maestro cards issued in the UK, Switch, or Delta
• banker’s draft.

Cash must not be sent.

If enclosing applications for more than one person in the same envelope, all fees must be included.

Refund policy

The usual policy is that refunds are not given if an application is refused, rejected or withdrawn.

How Home Office travel document applications are handled

This section explains how the travel documents section (TDS) processes and considers applications for Home Office travel documents (HOTD), and when it is appropriate to reject, refuse or issue an HOTD:

• Processing and considering Home Office travel document applications: this page explains how TDS processes and considers applications for an HOTD
• Rejecting Home Office travel document applications: this page explains the procedure for rejecting an application for an HOTD
• Refusing Home Office travel document applications: this page explains the procedure for refusing an application for an HOTD
• Successful Home Office travel document applications and issuing documents: this page explains the procedure for issuing an HOTD

Processing and considering Home Office travel document applications

This page explains how the travel documents section (TDS) processes and considers applications for Home Office travel documents (HOTD).

TDS checks all HOTD application forms to make sure they are correctly completed. On receipt of an application, TDS caseworkers must check the following details:

• the application is on the correct Home Office file
• the applicant is the person that they claim to be
• the applicant has paid the correct fee
• the applicant has properly completed all sections of the application form (TD112 BRP)
• the applicant has submitted a passport, document of entry or travel document
• a parent or legal guardian has completed all relevant parts of section 7 of the TD112 BRP if the applicant is 17 years old or under
• sections 8 and 9 of the TD112 BRP are signed in black ink and within the boxes provided
• there are acceptable, suitably endorsed photographs of each person, and
• the applicant has provided a police lost property report when the application is for an HOTD to replace one that has been lost or stolen

For more information on when TDS will reject or refuse an HOTD application see related links:

Rejecting Home Office travel document applications

Refusing home office travel document applications.

This page explains the procedure for rejecting an application for a Home Office travel document (HOTD).

The travel documents section (TDS) caseworkers will reject an application for an HOTD if it is incomplete or incorrect. They will send standard letter ICD.0302 explaining this. An addressed label is also sent so that any reply is passed to the relevant caseworker. It is the applicant’s responsibility to make sure the application is complete when they return it to TDS.

TDS will usually reject an application only once. If an incomplete application is returned again, TDS will then consider it on all the available information.

TDS can reject HOTD applications for several reasons, for example if:

• personal details are missing
• the incorrect fee is submitted
• unacceptable photographs or countersignature are included
• the application form is not signed or is signed incorrectly

This page explains the procedure for refusing an application for a Home Office travel document (HOTD).

The travel documents section (TDS) receives many applications from people who do not qualify for HOTDs. If an application falls outside the published policy, and there are no exceptional circumstances to allow TDS to issue an HOTD, TDS caseworkers will refuse the application.

There is no right of appeal against the decision to refuse an HOTD application.

An applicant or their representative can write to TDS to ask them to reconsider their case if they feel that TDS unfairly refused their application or did not consider it properly. TDS executive officers (EOs) usually consider reconsideration requests.

TDS can only reconsider each refused application once. If an EO upholds the refusal decision, and the applicant still does not accept the refusal they must make a new application. The new application must include:

• a new HOTD application form (TD112 BRP)
• the relevant fee, and
• photographs

If the EO upholds the original refusal they must send the applicant or their representatives a letter fully explaining the decision.

If the EO decides that there are exceptional circumstances, or that the previous refusal was incorrect, they will issue an HOTD. The EO must update the relevant records with the change of decision.

Successful Home Office travel document applications and issuing documents

This page explains the procedure when a Home Office travel document (HOTD) application is successful.

The travel documents section (TDS) issues HOTDs to certain categories of people lawfully resident in the UK. For more information about who can apply for an HOTD, see related link: How to apply for a Home Office travel document.

If an application is successful, TDS will issue an HOTD and send it to the applicant or representative with any relevant accompanying letters.

Retaining national passports or other national travel documents

Applicants are not allowed to hold an HOTD at the same time as any national passport or other type of travel document. When TDS issue an HOTD they retain national passports for safekeeping.

For more information on when TDS will return a passport to the applicant, see related link: Impounding and withdrawing a Home Office travel document.

Handling non-national travel documents

If the applicant entered the UK on a non-national travel document, they must submit the original travel document when applying for an HOTD. An example of a non-national travel document is one issued by the Indian authorities to an Afghan national who was once resident in India.

When TDS issues an HOTD, TDS caseworkers must return the non-national travel document to the embassy or high commission of the issuing authorities with an explanatory letter (ICD.0320) and place a copy of the letter and the non-national travel document on the Home Office file.

How to change or replace a Home Office travel document

This section explains how a person can replace a Home Office travel document (HOTD) if it is lost, stolen, expired or incorrect.

A fee is payable unless a document is issued following an error by the travel documents section (TDS).

To obtain a new document the applicant must complete an application form, TD112 BRP. If there is an error in the details of the HOTD the holder must send TDS:

• the incorrect HOTD
• evidence of the correct details, and
• a letter explaining what the error is.

This part contains sections on:

• lost or stolen Home Office travel documents: this page explains how TDS deal with cases of lost or stolen HOTDs
• expired or full Home Office travel documents: this page explains how TDS deal with cases where an HOTD has expired or run out of available pages
• change of personal details: this page explains the policy for changes to names and dates of birth and how to record personal details changes in HOTDs

Lost or stolen Home Office travel documents

This page explains how the travel documents section (TDS) deal with cases of lost or stolen Home Office travel documents (HOTD).

If an HOTD is lost or stolen it is an extremely serious matter. The applicant must notify TDS and their nearest police station immediately. A police officer will provide confirmation that the loss or theft has been reported. The applicant must provide that confirmation to TDS when applying for a replacement document.

If the HOTD is lost or stolen in the UK, an applicant can apply for a replacement by completing application form TD112 BRP. Applications to replace lost or stolen HOTDs take longer to process because the circumstances need to be investigated.

If the HOTD is lost or stolen abroad, the applicant must report this to the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission. It is not possible to apply for a replacement until the applicant is back in the UK.

If TDS caseworkers need further details of the loss, theft or damage, they must send the applicant a letter (ICD.0315) requesting further details. Common questions are:

• when was the HOTD lost, stolen or damaged?
• how was the HOTD lost, stolen, or damaged?
• where was the HOTD lost, stolen or damaged?
• when did you inform the police about this? Please provide the police report.
• why did you have your HOTD with you on the day it was lost or stolen?

TDS staff must consider all the information provided and take into account any previous losses.

In certain cases it may be appropriate to restrict the validity of a replacement HOTD. A senior caseworker must agree such cases before you issue the replacement HOTD.

Expired or full Home Office travel documents

This page explains how the travel documents section (TDS) deal with cases when a Home Office travel document (HOTD) has expired or has run out of available pages.

If an HOTD has expired or is full, the holder must apply for a new HOTD by completing application form TD112 BRP and paying the appropriate fee. An existing HOTD cannot be extended.

If the holder of an expired or full HOTD is not currently in the UK they must contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission for advice.

Change of personal details

This page explains the travel documents section’s (TDS) policy for changes to names and dates of birth and how to record personal details changes in Home Office travel documents (HOTDs).

It is Home Office policy not to change personal details from those the person originally provided on entry to the UK. TDS will issue HOTDs showing the same name and date of birth shown in the applicant’s passport or document of entry, or those given when the applicant first came to the UK.

If the applicant gives different details on their HOTD application form, TDS caseworkers must investigate the discrepancy and check if the Home Office has any record of the different personal details. More complex cases must be considered by a senior caseworker.

The following may apply:

• If a person does not want to include all their names, with the exception of their family name, you can exclude them. For example, if the applicant has three names but only wants to include two of them on the HOTD.
• An applicant cannot add new names, or change names, without a change of name deed poll, statutory declaration or original acceptable birth certificate. The applicant must provide original documents. TDS will not accept copies of documents. For example, if there is only evidence of two names, but the applicant wishes to include three names on the HOTD, they must provide documentary evidence.
• When there is a discrepancy in the date of birth given by the applicant in their HOTD application, TDS caseworkers may only accept an original acceptable birth certificate, national passport or national identity card as evidence.
• If another part of the Home Office has issued status documentation without sight of an acceptable birth certificate or other identity documentation, TDS will usually accept the details on the status papers.

Recording changes in HOTDs

When there is a change of name or a discrepancy in a date of birth, TDS can include an endorsement in the HOTD.

Below are some examples of these endorsements and when they are used.

Name change due to marriage

If the applicant submits the marriage certificate, a TDS caseworker will add the married name on the bio data page of the HOTD.

If the applicant does not submit their marriage certificate, a TDS caseworker will enter the maiden name on the bio data page and an endorsement can be added to reflect the married name.

Name change by deed poll, statutory declaration or adoption

If the applicant provides the original change of name deed poll, statutory declaration or adoption certificate, a TDS caseworker will add the new name on the bio data page of the HOTD. The old name will be shown in an endorsement, ‘Formerly known as [insert name], deed poll dated [insert date] seen.’

No evidence of a change of name

If the applicant provides no acceptable documentary evidence of a change of name, a TDS caseworker will use the name previously accepted for the bio data page of the HOTD. TDS will then add the endorsement: ‘Holder states correct name should be [insert name] but can provide no acceptable documentary evidence to support this.’

Date of birth discrepancy

If the applicant asks for a change to their date of birth which does not match the one on their passport, the document of entry or asylum questionnaire, they must provide one of the following as evidence:

• an original acceptable birth certificate
• a national passport, this may be different to the passport used to enter the UK
• a national identity card

A statutory declaration or deed poll cannot be used as evidence of a date of birth.

If the applicant does not provide acceptable evidence, a TDS caseworker will include the endorsement: ‘Holder states correct date of birth is [insert date of birth] but can provide no acceptable documentary evidence to support this.’

Impounding and withdrawing a Home Office travel document

This page explains the circumstances when Home Office travel documents (HOTDs) can be impounded or withdrawn.

HOTDs must be impounded or withdrawn from circulation by Border Force officers (BFO) or caseworkers in the following cases:

• There is evidence the holder has travelled to a country for which the HOTD is not valid. In these cases, caseworkers or BFOs must give or send the holder an appropriate letter explaining their HOTD is being impounded. Caseworkers or BFOs must forward the impounded HOTD to the travel documents section (TDS) with any evidence the holder has travelled to their country of origin or any other country the document is closed to. For TDS address, see related link.
• There is evidence the holder of a certificate of travel (COT) or stateless person’s document (SPD) also holds a passport or travel document issued by their own or any other national authorities.
• The holder of a convention travel document (CTD) is holding a passport at the same time. They are allowed to retain either the CTD or the passport. In these cases, caseworkers or BFOs must give or send the holder an appropriate letter explaining that their HOTD is being impounded. Caseworkers or BFOs must forward the impounded HOTD to TDS with any evidence that the holder has travelled to their country of origin or any other country the document is closed to.
• The BFO or caseworkers believe the holder is not the person who was issued the HOTD, they must send the impounded HOTD to TDS with images of the impostor and a copy of any BFO’s report.
• The holder is no longer entitled to hold that document. In these cases, caseworkers or BFOs must forward the impounded HOTD to TDS with a copy of any BFO’s report.

If the HOTD has been tampered with it must be sent to the national document forgery unit (NDFU). A report detailing the nature of the forgery must be sent to TDS. For TDS address, see related link.

Returning and exchanging HOTDs and national passports

An applicant can decide at any time they would prefer to hold their own national passport rather than their HOTD. The individual must send the HOTD to TDS before their passport can be returned.

The policy on dealing with such requests varies, depending on the document held and the status of the person.

Convention travel documents (CTD)

A person accepted as a refugee under the terms of the 1951 United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees places that status at risk if they travel on their own national passport. TDS caseworkers must tell the individual about the potential risk before returning their passport and ask the individual to sign a declaration to show they understand this risk and are willing to give up their refugee status. This is letter ICD.0310. Once the individual has signed and returned the declaration, the CTD is copied to file and destroyed, and the passport returned to the holder by recorded delivery post.

Certificates of travel (COT) or certificates of identity (CID)

There are no restrictions for returning passports to holders of a CID or COT and the process is a simple exchange of documents. A TDS caseworker must copy the CID or COT to file before destroying it, and return the passport to the holder by recorded delivery post.

Holders of HOTDs who have become British citizens

When a person becomes a British citizen they no longer qualify for an HOTD. TDS must destroy the HOTD and, on request, must return any national passport previously kept by TDS to the holder by recorded delivery post.

This page explains who to contact for more help with a specific case regarding Home Office travel documents.

If you have read the relevant Immigration Rules and this guidance and still need more help with this category, you must first ask your senior caseworker or line manager.

If the question cannot be answered at that level, you may email travel documents section (TDS) senior caseworkers for guidance on the policy, see related link.

Changes to this guidance can only be made by the modernised guidance team (MGT). If you think the policy content needs amending you must contact TDS senior caseworkers, who will ask the MGT to update the guidance, if appropriate.

The MGT will accept direct feedback on broken links, missing information or the format, style and navigability of this guidance. You can send these using the link: Email: Modernised guidance team.

Information owner

This page tells you about this version of the Home Office travel documents guidance and who owns it.

Changes to this guidance can only be made by the modernised guidance team (MGT). If you think the policy content needs amending you must contact TDS senior caseworkers, see related link, who will ask the MGT to update the guidance, if appropriate.

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• Trusted Traveler Programs
• How To Apply

How to Apply

NEXUS is designed to expedite the border clearance process for low-risk, approved travelers into Canada and the United States. By paying one fee, NEXUS members have crossing privileges at air, land, and marine ports of entry that support the program.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) are cooperating in this joint venture to simplify border crossings for members, while enhancing security.

To apply for membership in the NEXUS program:

• Use the Trusted Travelers Programs (TTP) website ;
• Submit an application and go through a registration process;
• Satisfy the eligibility criteria;
• Be admissible in Canada and the United States; and
• Pass risk assessments by both countries.

The application-processing fee of $50  (USD) per adult applicant is non-refundable . Children under the age of 18 must also apply and, if eligible, are admitted to the program free of charge.  Once approved, membership is valid for five years. For more information regarding the program requirements, please visit the NEXUS Program page.

Once the risk assessment by the United States and Canada is complete, you will receive an email on the dashboard of your TTP account.  When this notification is received, you will be “conditionally approved” and eligible to schedule an interview at a NEXUS enrollment center to complete the application process. 

Reasonable Modifications for Applicants with a Disability

After you have submitted your application and scheduled an interview at a NEXUS Enrollment Center , if you require assistance for the interview because of a disability, contact the NEXUS Enrollment Center where your interview is scheduled to request a reasonable modification or auxiliary aid or service to complete the interview.  Requests for a modification, aid, or service should be made as soon as possible and prior to the date of an interview to allow sufficient time for making the appropriate arrangements at the interview location.

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Claim refugee status from in Canada: After you apply

• 1. About the process
• 2. Who can apply
• 3. How to apply
• 4. After you apply
• Replace your refugee protection claimant document
• Optional: Work and study permits
• Protect yourself from fraud

On this page:

If you make your claim at a port of entry, if you submit your claim online, go to your appointment, go to your interview, if your claim is eligible.

• If your claim isn’t eligible

There are 4 possible results when you make a claim at a port of entry. Your next steps will depend what our Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer decides to do after reviewing your claim.

You’ll receive a notice from the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) about a hearing. You must

• complete your medical exam, and
• go to your hearing with the IRB
• go to your scheduled interview
• complete your claim online, and
• complete your medical exam

To complete your claim online, you’ll need your

• application number
• date of birth

You’ll find these on your

• acknowledgement of claim letter or
• refugee protection claimant document

Keep any of these documents the CBSA gives you. The CBSA will tell you what to do next.

• The officer decides your claim is not eligible

After you submit your claim online, we’ll review it to make sure it’s complete. If it is, we’ll use your online account to send you:

• an  acknowledgement of claim letter (which will help you get access to the Interim Federal Health Program and other services in Canada )
• instructions to complete your medical exam
• You may not get this letter at the same time as your acknowledgement of claim letter. We’ll send it to you only once we schedule your appointment.

If your claim is incomplete, we’ll tell you what’s missing.

You’ll get an email if we update your account or upload a document for you. Make sure you check your email regularly.

Make sure you bring your original passport or any other identification documents you have to your appointment.

During your appointment, we’ll

• review your application
• collect your fingerprints and photo ( biometrics ) and any required documents (if you haven’t already provided them)
• conduct your eligibility interview to decide if your claim is eligible (if we can)
• give you documents about next steps

If your child is under 14, bring 2 passport-sized photos to the biometrics appointment. Anyone 14 and older doesn’t need to bring photos.

If we don’t make a decision about your claim during this appointment, we’ll schedule you for an interview and give you the details. It’s mandatory to go to your interview .

Changes to immigration related appointments

If you’re in Canada

Any in-person appointments that were rescheduled due to the Government of Canada labour disruption are in the process of being rescheduled. You will be notified of your new appointment as soon as possible.

If you’re outside Canada

Overseas interviews are proceeding as scheduled, unless indicated otherwise by the IRCC office abroad.

During your interview we’ll decide if your claim is eligible. If we decide it is, we’ll refer it to the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB).

After the interview, we’ll give you a refugee protection claimant document that matches our decision about your claim. If your claim is eligible, we’ll also give you a confirmation of referral letter that confirms we referred your claim to the IRB. These documents will help you

• prove you are a refugee claimant in Canada
• get access to the Interim Federal Health Program and other services in Canada

Go to your hearing

If we refer your claim to the IRB, the IRB will send you a notice to appear for a  hearing . This notice will tell you

• where to go for your hearing
• when to get there
• when it starts

Find out how to prepare for your hearing in the  IRB’s Claimant’s Guide .

After your hearing, the IRB will approve or refuse your refugee claim.  Find out what to do after you get a decision .

The IRB will  never  call you to ask for money. Read more  information about fraudulent calls demanding money .

After your hearing

After your refugee hearing, the IRB approves or rejects your refugee claim.

If the IRB accepts your claim , you get “protected person” status. This means you can stay in Canada, and you can  apply to become a permanent resident of Canada .

If the IRB rejects your claim , you’ll have to leave Canada. You may be eligible to appeal the IRB’s decision. You may also have  other options .

If your claim is not eligible

If your claim is ineligible, your claim won’t be referred to the IRB and you’ll be issued an enforceable  removal order to leave Canada.

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• Create Account

I-131A, Application for Carrier Documentation

ALERT: On Jan. 30, 2024, USCIS announced a  final rule , published in the Federal Register, that adjusts the fees required for most immigration applications and petitions. The new fees will be effective April 1, 2024.

Applications and petitions postmarked on or after April 1, 2024, must include the new fees or USCIS will not accept them.

What to Know About Sending Us Your Form

The new filing fee is effective for filings postmarked April 1, 2024, and later. If you are filing an acceptable prior form edition on or after April 1, 2024, you must include the new filing fee.

ALERT: We have published an updated Form I-131A, edition date 11/02/22.

We have published an updated Form I-131A, edition date 11/02/22. This updated form allows you to apply for a travel document (carrier documentation) to board an airline or other transportation carrier without the carrier being penalized, if you are a foreign national:

• Who is not a lawful permanent resident or conditional lawful permanent resident; and
• Who received a Form I-512/Form I-512L, Advance Parole Document, or an Employment Authorization Document, with travel endorsement; and
• Whose document was lost, stolen, destroyed, or damaged while you were temporarily traveling outside the United States.

Use this form if you are:

• A lawful permanent resident (LPR), including an LPR with conditions, and wish to apply for a travel document (carrier documentation) that allows you to board an airline or other transportation carrier without the airline or transportation carrier being penalized; or
• Not an LPR or a conditional LPR, but you received a Form I-512/Form I-512L/Form I-512T, Advance Parole Document, or Form I-765, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), with travel endorsement that was lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed while you were outside the United States, and you wish to apply for a travel document (carrier documentation) that allows you to board an airline or other transportation carrier without the airline or transportation carrier being penalized.

Form I-131A allows you to apply for a travel document if you are:

• Returning from temporary travel outside the United States of  less than 1 year , and your Permanent Resident Card (also known as a Green Card) has been lost, stolen or destroyed;
• Returning from temporary travel outside the United States of less than 2 years and your reentry permit has been lost, stolen or destroyed; or
• Returning from temporary travel outside the United States and your Form I-512/Form I-512L/Form I-512T, Advance Parole Document, or Form I-765, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), with travel endorsement  has not expired  and has been lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed while you were overseas.

We measure the length of your absence from the time you departed the United States to the time you pay the Form I-131A fee. If you are an LPR, you must have been an LPR when you left the United States and still be an LPR when you return to the United States. If you abandoned your LPR status or if we terminated it, do not file Form I-131A.

If you are an LPR with an expired Green Card or are traveling with a child under 2 years old, please read the Special Instructions section below to determine whether you need to file Form I-131A.

If you were issued a Form I-512T, Advance Parole Document, please read the Special Instructions section below for guidance about how to complete the Form I-131A.

Forms and Document Downloads

Form I-131A (PDF, 423.23 KB)

Instructions for Form I-131A (PDF, 300.86 KB)

Form Details

11/02/22 . You can find the edition date at the bottom of the page on the form and instructions.

Dates are listed in mm/dd/yy format.

If you complete and print this form to mail it, make sure that the form edition date and page numbers are visible at the bottom of all pages and that all pages are from the same form edition. If any of the form’s pages are missing or are from a different form edition, we may reject your form.

If you need help downloading and printing forms, read our instructions . 

You must file Form I-131A  in person  with a Consular Section at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Before appearing in person, you must submit the filing fee through the online payment system on our website (see the Filing Fee section below). When you appear in person to file Form I-131A, you must bring evidence that you paid the fee, such as a copy of the payment confirmation page or a copy of the email payment receipt notice.

Before submitting your filing fee, please contact the nearest Consular Section at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate or visit its website to verify that they can process the Form I-131A, and carefully read the form instructions.

There is no biometric services fee. Anyone may pay this fee from anywhere in the world, as long as they enter the correct first and last names, date of birth, and A-Number because this information will appear on your boarding foil. You can find this information on your Green Card, reentry permit or advance parole document. Whoever pays the fee must pay  through our online payment system using a credit or debit card or U.S. bank account.

When you send a payment, you agree to pay for a government service. Filing and biometric service fees are final and non-refundable, regardless of any action we take on your application, petition, or request, or if you withdraw your request.

Pay each filing fee separately. We are transitioning to electronically processing immigration benefit requests, which requires us to use multiple systems to process your package. Because of this, you must pay each filing fee separately for any form you submit. We may reject your entire package if you submit a single, combined payment for multiple forms.

If you receive an error message when paying the fee, you should contact a Consular Section at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate with the error message for assistance. You cannot use a fee waiver for this form.

Please do not submit this checklist with your Form I-131A. It is an optional tool to use as you prepare your form, but does not replace statutory, regulatory, and form instruction requirements. We recommend that you review these requirements before completing and submitting your form. Do not send original documents unless specifically requested in the form instructions or applicable regulations.

If you submit any documents (copies or original documents, if requested) in a foreign language, you must include a full English translation along with a certification from the translator verifying that the translation is complete and accurate, and that they are competent to translate from the foreign language to English.

Bring the following evidence when you go to the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate to submit your Form I-131A:

• Your original passport;
• One copy of your passport’s biographic page (showing your photograph and personal information);
• Evidence that you are a lawful permanent resident;
• A copy of your tickets, itinerary, or any other evidence indicating your most recent date of departure from the United States and the day you intend to return to the United States; and
• One passport-style photograph of yourself taken within 30 days of filing this application.

Filing Tips:  Go to our  Tips for Filing Forms by Mail  page for information on how to help ensure we will accept your application.

Don’t forget to sign your form. We will reject any unsigned form.

If you are an LPR with an expired Green Card

If you have an expired Green Card, you may not need to file Form I-131A. Although regulations generally require an LPR to travel with a valid Green Card, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) policy allows a transportation carrier bound for the United States to let you board without carrier documentation if you are:

• An LPR with an expired Green Card that was issued with a 10-year expiration date, and you have been outside the United States for less than 1 year;
• An LPR with an expired Green Card with a 2-year expiration date, and you also have Form I-797, Notice of Action, showing that you filed Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, or Form I-829, Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status, and you have been outside the United States for less than 1 year. The Notice of Action extends the validity of the card for a specified length of time, generally 2 years; or
• An LPR military service member or employee of the U.S. government (or an LPR dependent of such an individual) on official U.S. military or government travel orders, regardless of time outside the United States.

Check with your airline or transportation carrier before you file Form I-131A. In some situations, they may refuse to let you board even if you are in one of the categories above. In that case, you will need to file Form I-131A.

If you have a child who was born outside the United States, you may need to request carrier documentation if:

• You are an LPR or have an immigrant visa;
• Your child is under 2 years old; and
• Your child is traveling with you to come to the United States for the first time.

We recommend checking with your airline or transportation carrier first to ensure they will board your child in these circumstances without carrier documentation. If the airline or transportation carrier refuses to board your child without carrier documentation, you will need to pay for and submit a Form I-131A for your child.

If you were issued a Form I-512T Advance Parole Document that has been lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed , mark Box 1.e. or Box 1.f. in Section 2 of Form I-131A.

Changing your Address

You can change your address through your  Case Status Online  user account at any time. For more information, please see our  Change of Address  page. If you experience any technical difficulties, please call the UCSIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 (TTY: 800-767-1833).