A Step-by-Step Guide to Form I-131 in Fresno

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Filing Form I-131 from Fresno comes down to three practical steps: choosing the right type of request, mailing your packet to the correct USCIS address, and submitting evidence that supports your reason for applying.

USCIS uses the same federal standards nationwide, but Fresno applicants can strengthen a case by providing clear, well-organized documents that show family ties, community connections, and any urgent circumstances.

The guide below explains how Form I-131 works, where Fresno residents usually send the application, what to expect after filing, and what USCIS considers when making a decision.

What Is Form I-131?

Form I-131 is a USCIS form used to request certain travel documents and parole. Many Fresno residents come across it because they need permission to travel while a green card application (Form I-485) is pending. That permission is called advance parole.

Advance parole matters because travel can create serious problems for a pending case when the right travel document is not in place. Some applicants only learn this rule after they book travel, which can lead to rushed filings or mistakes.

Form I-131 can also be used in parole in place (PIP) situations. PIP is most commonly tied to military families, and it can allow a person who entered without inspection to receive parole without leaving the United States. USCIS also has authority to consider parole for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit in limited circumstances.

How to File Form I-131 Step-by-Step

Form I-131 filings go more smoothly when the request type is correct, the packet is complete, and the supporting documents clearly explain why USCIS should approve the request. To keep your filing organized and easier for USCIS to review, follow these steps:

  • Confirm the type of Form I-131 request. Start by identifying what you’re asking USCIS for, such as advance parole or parole in place (PIP) under an eligible category. Choosing the wrong request type can lead to delays or a denial, even when the underlying need is legitimate.
  • Gather identity documents and USCIS notices. Collect your core identification records and any paperwork that shows your current immigration process. Many applicants include a passport biographic page or other government-issued photo ID, plus USCIS receipt notices or approval notices connected to the case. Placing these documents near the front helps the reviewing officer confirm your identity and match your request to your existing file.
  • Build your evidence around what USCIS weighs. Supporting documents matter because many I-131 requests are discretionary. USCIS officers weigh positive and negative factors based on the full record. A strong packet clearly explains why you’re applying and includes documents that support the reason, such as proof of family ties, caregiving responsibilities, good character, steady residence, employment history, and time-sensitive humanitarian circumstances when relevant.
  • Confirm the filing fee for your category. Fee rules vary depending on how you file and what type of request you are submitting. A separate Form I-131 filing may require a $630 filing fee.
  • Make a complete copy and mail your packet with tracking: Before mailing, copy the entire packet for your records. Use a tracked mailing method and keep proof of delivery. Tracking information and copies become important if USCIS later says something is missing, if a receipt notice is delayed, or if you need to respond quickly to a follow-up request.

What Does USCIS Look for When Deciding Whether to Approve Form I-131 or PIP?

USCIS treats many parole and advance parole requests as discretionary, which means approval depends on the full record. USCIS applies the same standards nationwide, including in Fresno.

Officers weigh positive factors such as strong ties to the U.S., a stable home life, caregiving responsibilities, and proof of good moral character. The strength of a case often comes down to documentation. USCIS tends to respond best to official records that support clear facts.

USCIS also weighs negative factors. Criminal history, immigration fraud, serious immigration violations, removal proceedings, or an unexecuted final order of removal can significantly affect a case. Background checks also matter, and USCIS can deny a request when those checks raise concerns.

A successful filing presents the request as reasonable, temporary where required, and supported by documents that show stability and credibility.

What Evidence Helps Support Applications?

USCIS gives the most weight to evidence that proves specific facts and is easy to verify. A large packet is not always a strong packet, especially when documents repeat the same point or do not connect clearly to the reason for the request.

Most applicants include proof of family ties, such as birth certificates for U.S. citizen children, marriage certificates, and records showing a shared household. Fresno-based documents like school enrollment letters, report cards, or attendance records can also help show stable roots.

Applicants who provide caregiving support often submit medical records and physician letters. The strongest letters explain the condition, why care is needed, and why the applicant’s presence matters. Appointment summaries, insurance records, and other proof of ongoing involvement can add credibility.

To show good character and community ties, applicants often include employment verification letters, pay stubs, and tax returns. Volunteer records and church or community letters can help when they include specific details such as dates, responsibilities, and how the writer knows the applicant.

Any foreign-language document must include a full English translation and translator certification.

Biggest Risks Applicants Should Understand Before Filing

Travel can have serious consequences for people with pending immigration cases. Leaving the United States while a green card application is pending without the correct travel authorization can lead USCIS to treat that green card application as abandoned.

Advance parole also does not guarantee re-entry. CBP makes the final decision at the port of entry, and inspection still applies even with a valid document.

Some applicants face additional risks based on their immigration history. Prior removal orders, past immigration violations, or other complications can make travel risky even when advance parole is approved.

Individual travel risk still depends on the full record, so legal screening is important for applicants with complex histories.

Where Do Fresno Residents Mail Form I-131?

Mailing the application to the correct USCIS address is one of the most important details in the entire process.

USCIS uses different mailing addresses for Form I-131 depending on why you’re filing. Some Fresno applicants mail Form I-131 to the Phoenix Lockbox, but others must mail it to a different lockbox based on whether their pending green card case is family-based or non-family-based.

USCIS sometimes updates filing addresses, so confirm the current USCIS instructions that match your category before mailing. A wrong address can mean delays or a rejected filing. An immigration lawyer can review your situation and confirm the proper address before you mail your packet.

Where Do Fresno Applicants Go for Biometrics?

Many applicants receive a biometrics appointment notice after filing Form I-131. Biometrics are used for identity verification and background checks.

Fresno residents typically complete biometrics at:

USCIS Application Support Center
4893 Cesar Chavez Blvd #3811
Fresno, CA 93727

Bring the biometrics appointment notice and acceptable photo identification. Missing biometrics can delay a case or lead to denial if USCIS cannot complete required checks.

How Andrade Auld Law Can Help You with Form I-131 & PIP

Many Fresno applicants have strong reasons to file Form I-131, but denials and delays often happen because the request type is incorrect, the evidence is missing, or the packet does not match what USCIS is evaluating.

Andrade Auld Law helps clients by:

  • Confirming which Form I-131 category applies and whether advance parole or PIP is appropriate
  • Screening for travel risks, unlawful presence concerns, and immigration history issues that could affect eligibility
  • Preparing a clear filing strategy that connects evidence to USCIS discretionary factors
  • Organizing supporting documents so the packet is easy for USCIS to review
  • Drafting supporting declarations that explain the request in plain language and stay consistent with the record
  • Helping clients prepare for biometrics and respond to Requests for Evidence (RFEs) when USCIS asks for more documentation

If you live in Fresno and need to file Form I-131 or pursue PIP, our immigration attorneys can help you understand your options and avoid mistakes that can delay your case or create long-term consequences. Schedule a free consultation by contacting us online or by calling (559) 517-3733.