USCIS Form I-131A
Request carrier documentation to return to the United States as a permanent resident.
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About USCIS Form I-131A
Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation), is used by a lawful permanent resident or conditional permanent resident outside the United States who needs documentation to board a plane, bus, or boat to return. It is generally used when a Permanent Resident Card or reentry permit was lost, stolen, or damaged, or has expired while abroad. You file it at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
This page is a general guide and a fillable helper, not legal or immigration advice. Always download and file the current official form from USCIS at https://www.uscis.gov/i-131a and confirm the fields, filing location, and instructions match before you sign.
Who needs to complete it
- Lawful permanent residents outside the United States who need to board a carrier to return.
- Residents whose Permanent Resident Card was lost, stolen, or damaged while abroad.
- Residents whose green card or reentry permit expired while they were outside the country.
- People who need carrier documentation to travel back as a permanent resident.
How to fill out USCIS Form I-131A
- 1Enter your full name and any other names you have used.
- 2Provide your Alien Registration Number, date of birth, and country of birth.
- 3Enter your current address outside the United States and contact details.
- 4Explain why you need carrier documentation, such as a lost, stolen, damaged, or expired card.
- 5Provide details about your permanent resident status and your last departure from the United States.
- 6Assemble the photos and supporting documents described in the instructions.
- 7Sign and date the application.
- 8File it with the U.S. embassy or consulate as directed in the current instructions.
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Frequently asked questions
When is Form I-131A used?
It is generally used by a permanent resident abroad who needs documentation to board a carrier back to the United States, often because a green card or reentry permit was lost, stolen, damaged, or expired while abroad. This is a general guide, not immigration advice.
Where do I file it?
It is typically filed in connection with a U.S. embassy or consulate. Review the current USCIS instructions for the exact process and any online steps.
What do I need to submit?
Applicants usually provide photos and supporting documents listed in the instructions. Confirm the current requirements before you file.
Is this the official USCIS form?
This is a fillable helper to make completion easier. Always download and file the current official form from USCIS at https://www.uscis.gov/i-131a and confirm the fields match.