Refugee Travel Document Guide for Asylees and Refugees
A refugee travel document allows certain refugees and asylees to travel outside the United States and return lawfully. If you received refugee or asylum status, this document is usually required before leaving the country. Without it, you may not be allowed to reenter the U.S.
This page explains who needs a refugee travel document, how it works, and important travel risks to understand before you leave.
Key Takeaways
- A refugee travel document is usually required for refugees and asylees who want to travel abroad.
- You must apply using Form I-131 and receive approval before leaving the country.
- Traveling without this document, or using a home country passport, can jeopardize your ability to return to the U.S.
- Avoid returning to your country of feared persecution as it carries serious immigration risks.
- Applying early and understanding travel rules helps protect your status and future immigration benefits.
What Is a Refugee Travel Document?
A refugee travel document is a U.S. government-issued document that functions like a passport for refugees and asylees. It allows international travel and serves as proof of your permission to return to the United States.
Most refugees and asylees cannot use a passport from their home country. Doing so may raise concerns about whether they still need U.S. protection. Key points to know:
- Typically valid for one year
- Accepted by many, but not all, foreign countries
- Required for most refugees and asylees traveling abroad
USCIS may refer to a refugee travel document internally as Form I-571, which is simply the government’s designation for the type of travel document.
Who Needs a Refugee Travel Document?
You generally need a refugee travel document if you will be taking a trip outside the United States and you are:
- A refugee admitted to the United States
- An asylee granted asylum inside the U.S.
- A lawful permanent resident who originally entered as a refugee or asylee and does not have a passport
If you have already become a permanent resident, you may still need this document unless you can safely use a national passport.
How a Refugee Travel Document Is Different from Other Travel Documents
Not all travel documents are the same. The table below shows how this travel document compares to other common options under Form I-131.
| Document | Who Uses It | Primary Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Refugee Travel Document | Refugees and asylees | International travel and U.S. reentry |
| Advance Parole | Adjustment of status applicants | Temporary travel while case is pending |
| Reentry Permit | Permanent residents | Extended travel outside the U.S. |
Can You Travel Back to Your Home Country?
This is one of the most important issues for refugees and asylees. Traveling back to the country where you feared persecution can be risky. USCIS or other agencies may question whether you still need protection in the United States.
Travel may be considered problematic if you:
- Use your home country passport
- Return for reasons that suggest protection is no longer needed
- Stay for an extended period
- Travel without strong humanitarian reasons
There are limited situations where travel may be justified, such as a serious family emergency. Even then, risks remain. To evaluate your specific situation, speak to an immigration attorney →
If you want extra confidence when preparing Form I-131, CitizenPath provides clear instructions written for everyday people. The affordable service checks for mistakes and builds a tailored checklist so you know exactly what to submit. You pay only when you’re satisfied and ready to download your I-131 package.
What Happens If You Travel Without a Refugee Travel Document?
Leaving the U.S. without a refugee travel document can cause serious problems. Possible consequences include:
- Being denied reentry at the U.S. border
- Losing refugee or asylum status
- Delays or denial of future immigration benefits
- Increased scrutiny by immigration officers
Airlines may also refuse boarding if you do not have proper travel documentation.
How to Apply for a Refugee Travel Document
You apply for a travel document by filing Form I-131, Application for Travel Documents, Parole Documents, and Arrival/Departure Records with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The process generally includes:
- Completing Form I-131
- Submitting required documents
- Paying the filing fee or requesting a fee waiver
- Attending a biometrics appointment if required
- Waiting for USCIS approval before traveling
Processing times vary, so it’s important to apply well before your planned trip.
That's why getting your application right the first time is essential. CitizenPath offers step-by-step guidance to help make sure your application is complete and correct. Learn about the Travel Document Package →
How Long Is a Refugee Travel Document Valid?
Most refugee travel documents are valid for one year from the date of issuance. However, some may be issued for shorter periods depending on your status and case history.
You must return to the United States before the document expires. Expired documents cannot be used for reentry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many travel problems happen because of simple mistakes. Thus, avoid these common issues:
- Traveling before receiving the approved document
- Using a home country passport
- Staying outside the U.S. too long
- Assuming all countries accept the document
- Forgetting visa requirements for destination countries
Always check entry rules for the country you plan to visit.
Refugee Travel Document FAQs
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