G S
May 5, 2026
i-131 reffuege travel document RTD
hey i have a question some one told me if i apply my i-131 RTD while my i-485 is pending i get my i-131 RTD for one year validity but if i apply my i-131 RTD after my i-485 green card application approved i get my i-131 RTD for 5 year validity is it true ???
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sarah heipsMay 5, 2026
The RTD is valid for 1 year regardless of before or after green card. processing is 16 months so you better apply now
misho adamsMay 6, 2026
that’s bullshit bro
Green Card ApprovedMay 6, 2026
2 years validity it the Reentry Permit
Yuan FangMay 6, 2026
It’s not true, my RTD has only 1 year, it took me 15 months to get it
Manifest LawMay 8, 2026
The statement you heard is not correct as a general rule. A Refugee Travel Document (RTD) issued on Form I-131 is typically valid for up to 1 year. There is no binding rule in that says an RTD is automatically 1 year while an I-485 is pending and automatically 5 years after green card approval.
If you have any other questions, feel free to ask them in our next Lawfully office hours session!
- Attorney MaryJoy Chuba
(All information shared here is for general educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney - client relationship. Your situation may require fact-specific guidance. For personalized legal advice, please consult an immigration attorney directly.)
Karla MendozaMay 21, 2026
I applied for both a travel permit and residency at the same time. I received the travel permit after one year, valid for five years, but my residency application is still pending.
