Is a child able to travel outside of the U.S. while their application for an immigrant visa is in process?

In California, minors (children under 18 years old) are generally allowed to travel outside of the United States while their application for an immigrant visa is in process. However, the child must have the appropriate documentation, such as a valid passport and visa, in order to be allowed to travel. Additionally, minors must be traveling with a parent, legal guardian, or a person who is approved by the U.S. Department of State as a responsible adult chaperone. The travel document, or Form I-131A, must also be approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before the minor can leave the United States. It’s important to note that if a child leaves the United States during their visa application process, it does not mean their application will be denied. However, leaving the country while the application is pending could delay the process. Additionally, the child may not be able to re-enter the United States until their immigrant visa application has been approved. Therefore, it’s important to consult with an immigration attorney prior to making any travel plans while the visa application is in process.

THELAW.TV ofrece respuestas en español a todas las preguntas sobre la ley de inmigración.

Es una pregunta común acerca de la ley de inmigración para los niños en California. La respuesta a esta pregunta depende de la situación del niño y de la visa solicitada. En general, un niño no debería salir de Estados Unidos mientras su aplicación de visa de inmigrante está en proceso. Esto se debe a que la salida del país durante el proceso de aplicación puede poner en peligro la potencial aprobación de la visa. Sin embargo, hay circunstancias en las que un niño podría salir de Estados Unidos durante el proceso de visa de inmigrante. Por ejemplo, si el niño ha obtenido una I-601A provisional o una exención humanitaria conocida como "petición de no inadmisibilidad", entonces el niño podría ser autorizado a salir del país por un periodo corto de tiempo. Esto se aplica siempre y cuando el niño cumpla con los requisitos de entrada y salida del país. Además, el niño debe presentar un certificado de aceptación del consulado junto con su pasaporte, para que el proceso de visa de inmigrante no se vea afectado. En conclusión, dependiendo de la situación, un niño podría salir de Estados Unidos mientras su aplicación de visa de inmigrante está en proceso. Sin embargo, es importante tomar todas las precauciones necesarias antes de hacerlo, para evitar cualquier problema con el proceso de aplicación.

Related FAQs

How can a child become a U.S. Citizen through a parent or guardian?
Can a child apply for immigration if they do not have parents or a legal guardian?
Are there any special programs available to children with special needs who are applying for immigration?
Are there any exceptions to the five-year residency requirement for children for naturalization?
Are there any special rules for a child to be considered a dependent on a family petition?
How long does it take for a child's green card application to be approved?
Are there any special programs available to children who are victims of trafficking?
What is the process for a child to adjust their status from a nonimmigrant to an immigrant?
Are there any special provisions for a child to receive a work permit if they are in removal proceedings?
Are children eligible for special immigration considerations?

Related Blog Posts

Understanding Immigration Law for Children: A Guide for Families - July 31, 2023
The Disadvantages of Not Knowing Immigration Law for Children - August 7, 2023
Family-Based Immigration Law Options for Children - August 14, 2023
Defending Children’s Immigration Rights in Court - August 21, 2023
What You Need to Know About Representing Children in Immigration Court - August 28, 2023