Applicants for adjustment of status to permanent residence have
restricted ability to travel outside of the United States until
they are approved for permanent residence.
Most applicants have no choice, if they want to travel
internationally, they must apply for and obtain an advance parole
travel document. Applicants for permanent residence who maintain
valid H-1B, L-1, H-4, or L-2 status do have a choice: they may
either travel on their valid H or L visas, or they may obtain
advance parole travel documents and employment authorization
documents. The purpose of this analysis is to compare the relative
advantages and disadvantages of advance parole travel and travel
with H or L visas, as well as working in H or L status versus
working with an employment authorization document. Some adjustment
of status applicants may well conclude that they wish to both
maintain H or L status and obtain advance parole and employment
authorization.
