USCIS Eases Process for Reentry to the United States

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has taken a significant step towards easing immigration procedures by making it simpler to file Form I-131. This form is crucial for individuals needing to request travel documents, reentry permits, or records of entry and exit. Announced in an official update on August 18, the changes introduce logistical enhancements that particularly affect migrants applying for humanitarian visas such as VAWA, T, and U visas.

Understanding Form I-131 and Its Purpose

Form I-131 serves multiple travel-related functions, including:

• Reentry permits for legal permanent residents needing to leave the country for extended periods.
• Advance parole for individuals with pending immigration cases.
• Travel documents for those under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or other humanitarian protections.

Online Filing: A Step Towards Accessibility

One of the most notable updates is that Form I-131 can now be submitted entirely online via the USCIS official portal. This option is currently available, allowing applicants to complete the process without having to visit a physical immigration office. This online submission not only speeds up processing times but also reduces costs, as the online processing fee is cheaper than mailing the form.

The portal provides real-time updates on the status of applications, the ability to upload digital documents, and user account alerts and notifications. A step-by-step guide is also available to assist users in correctly completing the form, reducing the likelihood of errors that could lead to denial.

Key Logistical Changes: New Submission Locations

Starting August 18, 2025, USCIS has specified that certain applicants should no longer mail their forms to the Nebraska Service Center. This is especially relevant for those:

• Submitting Form I-131 in conjunction with VAWA, T, or U visa applications, or
• With a previously submitted and pending Form I-485 related to VAWA, T, or U visas.

Instead, these forms should now be sent to a USCIS Lockbox location. The agency stated, “If you are filing Form I-131 in connection with a VAWA, T, or U visa application, or with a previously submitted and pending Form I-485 based on VAWA, T, or U, submit this form at our USCIS Lockbox location, not the Nebraska Service Center.”

Transition Period and Potential Consequences

To ease the transition to this new procedure, USCIS has implemented a 30-day grace period. The Nebraska Center will accept forms postmarked before September 18, 2025. However, USCIS has clearly warned, “The Nebraska Service Center will reject any Form I-131 with a postmark of September 18, 2025, or later.”

This means any application sent to the wrong location after this date will be returned unprocessed, potentially causing significant issues for those needing timely approval of their travel or reentry permits.

Important Reminder: Selecting the Correct Application Type

While the online option represents a major advancement, USCIS reminds applicants to carefully choose the correct application type. Incorrect selection could lead to automatic denial, with no refund of fees. This is especially critical for those with pending applications or needing advance parole.

For these cases, it is crucial to thoroughly read the specific instructions available on the USCIS website or seek legal advice if necessary.

Aligning with Immigration Modernization

These changes are part of a broader strategy by the U.S. government to digitalize and enhance access to immigration services. As the number of applicants and pending cases increases, adopting digital tools is essential to alleviate the operational burden on the immigration system.

Moreover, relocating applications linked to VAWA, T, and U visas to USCIS Lockbox locations could be aimed at expediting the processing of humanitarian cases, which often involve vulnerable individuals such as victims of domestic violence, human trafficking, or serious crimes.