U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services published a new form for certain lawful permanent residents abroad to use who do not have valid travel documents to return. Form I-131A is now available for use by LPRs who need a travel document to return to the United States because:

1. A previously issued LPR card has been lost, stolen or destroyed
2. A previously issued LPR card was issued but not received
3. An existing LPR card has been mutilated
4. An existing LPR card has already expired

The purpose of the form is to apply for a travel document for the LPR to be able to board a flight or vessel to return to the United States. Once back in the United States, the LPR will still need to file a Form I-90 for a replacement LPR card.

To submit an I-131A, applicants must first pay the $360 filing fee online using a credit or debit card or U.S. bank account through the USCIS online payment system. The I-131A form page is linked to the payment page. The LPR should then consult the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate or visit its website for specific instructions on how to submit the application. It is anticipated that the embassy or consulate will generally issue the carrier documentation within two weeks.  Applicants need to have proof of payment of the I-131A fee in order file the application with the consulate.

As explained in the form instructions and other USCIS website information, this form is not appropriate for LPRs who may have abandoned status by an extended absence. For this reason, the I-131A is only appropriate for those LPRs who have been outside the U.S. for less than one year with an LPR card, or less than two years with a re-entry permit. Those who have had more extended absences and have lost a residency card may need to apply for a Returning Resident SB-1 special immigrant visa.

Finally, USCIS advises that LPRs with expired LPR cards may not need to file Form I-131A depending on the airline they are utilizing for return to the United States. This is because Customs and Border Protection policy permits a transportation carrier bound for the United States to board an LPR without carrier documentation if:

1. The LPR has an expired card issued with a 10-year expiration date, or
2. The LPR has an expired LPR card with a 2-year expiration date AND a Form I-797, Notice of Action, showing that they have filed a Form I-751 or Form I-829 to remove the conditions on their permanent resident status