If you lose, damage, or have your green card stolen while outside the United States, you will need to apply for a travel document by submitting Form I-131A. This document, often referred to as a “carrier document,” allows airlines or other carriers to let you board your flight back to the U.S. without facing fines from the U.S. government for transporting someone without proper documentation.
To be eligible, you must have been outside the U.S. for less than one year, and your green card must have been lost, stolen, or damaged during that time. This process ensures that you can return to the U.S. without complications.
The first step is to pay the application fee of $575 online. This fee must be paid before you visit a U.S. Embassy, Consulate, or USCIS International Field Office, and you will need the payment confirmation receipt for your appointment. Once the fee is paid, schedule an appointment at the nearest U.S. Embassy, Consulate, or USCIS International Field Office. For those applying at the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu, appointments can be scheduled online through their official portal.
On the day of your appointment, ensure that you bring all the required documents. These include a valid and updated passport, the completed and signed Form I-131A, a copy of your lost, stolen, or damaged green card or any proof of your permanent resident status, and a police report if applicable. Additionally, bring proof of your $575 payment, your travel itinerary showing when you left the U.S. and your intended return date, and a passport-style photo taken within the last 30 days.
The Form I-131A is relatively simple to complete, with most applicants only needing to fill out three of its six pages. It requires basic information such as your name, address, alien registration number, social security number, date of birth, the date you left the U.S., and your planned return date. It is also advisable to confirm with the nearest U.S. Embassy, Consulate, or USCIS International Field Office that they can process Form I-131A before paying the fee.
Click here to download the application.
Processing of the application typically takes around two weeks. However, in emergencies, the process may be expedited. Once your application is approved, you will be issued a travel document that allows you to board your flight back to the United States. It is crucial to wait until you receive the approved travel document before making any travel arrangements.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
