Mar 06, 2008
USCIS Introduces Biometric Requirement for Re-entry Permits and Refugee Travel Documents 

Earlier this week, USCIS issued revised instructions for Form I-131, the Application for Travel Document. These instructions, which include a range of changes, became effective March 5, 2008. Changes made to the form include requiring individuals applying for re-entry permits and refugee travel documents to provide biometric information at a USCIS Application Support Center. USCIS will notify applicants of their appointment at a designated Application Security Center after the applicant has submitted the Form I-131.

These new instructions apply to individuals filing Form I-131s for re-entry permits or refugee travel documents who are between the ages of 14 and 79. USCIS suggests that these applicants file Form I-131s well in advance of their expected travel date.

In addition to the new biometric requirements, applicable individuals who are in the U.S. will also be required to pay the $80 biometric services fee (or submit a fee waiver request).

Finally, applicants wishing to request expedited processing should submit pre-paid express mailers with their Form I-131s so that USCIS can mail back the receipt and appointment notice, along with the RE-entry Permit or Refugee Travel Document, if approved. Additional information on expedited processing procedures is delineated in detail on the revised instructions.