Travel Permit
Important Update!
Is it safe to travel on AP/Travel Permit right now?
We do not recommend traveling currently, until we can see how the Trump administration is going to treat travel. When Trump was president last time, he did not affect or try to cancel travel permits. And so far, we haven’t seen any direct signs that the administration plans to change this. But, to be cautious, we recommend not traveling at least until a few months into the new administration. This will give us time to monitor the situation, and learn if there are any cases of people having trouble returning and detect any changes in travel policies. Keep eyes on our social media or our travel guidance website for updates. And if you have a family emergency and need to travel, please know that we can't eliminate risk and that you should follow the guidelines below.
Important Information
Before Traveling
Outside the U.S. With Your Travel Permit
As lawyers, we want you to know that there is always some risk in traveling outside the U.S. with your travel permit. While the risk cannot be completely eliminated, there are steps you can take to reduce it.
Until recently, we had not heard of anyone who could not return to the U.S. with a travel permit based on the types of cases we handle. However, we have learned of an incident in Newark, NJ, in a VAWA case where a person was denied entry. Although this was not a T-Visa case like yours, we believe it is important for you to be aware of all potential risks when traveling.
In this incident, the individual was denied entry due to how they answered questions about their case. If you decide to travel, you may be asked questions about your case when returning to the U.S. Officials want to confirm that you understand your case and that the statements in your declaration are true. If your responses suggest that you do not understand your case or do not qualify, you could be denied reentry into the U.S.
Understand the T-VISA
and “Trafficking”
When you return to the U.S. with your travel permit, you may be questioned by government officials. They can search your belongings and your phone before allowing you to reenter the country. You may also be taken to a separate area called “Secondary Inspection” for additional questions. If this happens, ask to call your immigration lawyer and contact us at (877)411-7669, a special line reserved for emergencies at the border.
What Should You Be
Prepared to Answer?
Your case is a T-Visa, which is based on “trafficking.” This can include mistreatment at work, at home, or by coyotes. If a government official asks about your case, you should say that it is a T-Visa case and confirm that you are a victim of trafficking. If you say you don’t know what type of case you have or deny being a victim of trafficking, you may not be allowed back in.
1- Know Your Case
Read your declaration again before traveling. Be ready to confirm that the facts in your declaration are true. Remember that the declaration was drafted based on your detailed interview with us and was reviewed by you before submission. Let us know if any corrections are needed. You may be asked about the mistreatment mentioned in your declaration, and your answers should be true and consistent.
2- Review Your Declaration
Make sure to carry a valid passport that will not expire for at least six months after your return date. Bring your combo work/travel permit card or your approved Advanced Parole Form I-512, along with copies of your receipt notices for Forms I-914 and I-192. Also, bring a copy of your U.S. driver’s license or other U.S.-issued identification.
3- Bring Necessary Documents
You may be asked questions at any airport, so be ready to answer honestly. However, be especially prepared if you are returning through airports in New York, New Jersey, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, or Miami.
Immigration officials want to ensure that your case is legitimate and that you understand that it is based on a T-Visa involving trafficking.
4- Be Prepared for Questions
Some people may decide they do not feel comfortable traveling if they know they will be asked questions about their case upon return or if there is a chance they could be denied entry. We understand this concern. Although we have only heard of one incident so far in a VAWA case, it could happen again, which is why we want you to be prepared.
The decision to travel is personal, and only you can make it. If you decide to travel with your travel permit, please follow these precautions to minimize risks.
Are There Other Factors That
May Increase the Risk of Travel?
Yes. Other factors that may increase the risk of travel include crimes, especially those related to drugs or violence, and having active or prior deportation proceedings or orders. Additionally, a history that might lead officials to believe you are related to drug trafficking or gangs poses a higher risk.
As always, we are here to help. Please feel free to call us at any time if you have questions.