Individuals who come from countries that are not backlogged (see Priority Dates and Retrogression) at the time the I-140 is filed have the option to submit their final “green card” documents at the same time, in the same envelope as their I-140. This is a great advantage as it will speed up the entire application process AND all dependents are eligible to also file with you. This means that all applicants can file forms to request permission to work based on the pending permanent residency petition AND for advanced parole, a travel pass that will allow you to leave the US without abandoning your green card application. The best part is that once you have advanced parole you can travel and return WITHOUT having to have a valid visa! That’s right, no more long lines or time wasted trying to get a visa to return to the US. You will be traveling and returning as an ADJUSTMENT APPLICANT and your I-94 will be stamped that you are paroled into the US to pursue your permanent residency.

A word of caution! If you will be using the advanced parole benefit for travel you MUST file this application from WITHIN the US and you MUST re-enter while it is still valid.