example of travel document number

• Immigration

How To Find Your Travel Document Number on Visas, Passports, and Green Cards

Looking for your travel document number learn where to find it on various documents like visa, passport, and green card. find travel document number easily with these tips..

Key Takeaways:

• Travel Document Number is a unique code used for immigration and travel purposes, helping verify authenticity and track travel history.
• Travel Document Number can be found on visas, passports, green cards, and other identification documents.
• Keeping your Travel Document Number secure is crucial to preventing fraudulent use of personal information.

Understanding Your Travel Document Number

Navigating through the complexities of immigration documents can often be a daunting task, especially when you’re trying to find specific pieces of information like your Travel Document Number. Whether you’re applying for a visa, going through customs, or renewing your passport, knowing where to locate this vital number is crucial. So, what exactly is a travel document number, and where can you find it on various immigration documents?

What Is a Travel Document Number?

A Travel Document Number is a unique identifier assigned to a range of travel-related documents. It’s a string of digits (and sometimes letters) used to recognize your specific document for immigration or travel purposes. It serves as an identification code that helps immigration and border control authorities verify the authenticity of your document and track your travel history.

Finding Your Travel Document Number on a Visa

If you’re holding a visa, the Travel Document Number is often annotated as a visa number or control number. It’s one of the most critical pieces of information on this document because it can be used to retrieve your visa records.

Where to Look: – On a United States visa, you’ll find the Travel Document Number in the top right corner of the visa, labeled as the “Visa Number.” – For Schengen visas, it is usually located in the bottom right of the visa sticker, referred generally as the “Visa Code.”

Also of Interest:

Complete list of countries, traveling with a passport after a name change: guidance and steps.

Remember that the location might vary depending on the country that has issued the visa, but it will always be clearly marked and distinguishable from other numbers.

Locating the Number on Your Passport

You passport is not just proof of your identity and nationality; it also contains your Travel Document Number, although it is commonly referred to as the “Passport Number.”

Where to Look: – The Travel Document Number can typically be found on the information page of your passport. This is the page with your photograph, name, date of birth, and the document’s expiration date. – Look for a series of numbers (and possibly letters) usually located at the top corner of the information page but can also be found at the bottom in some passports.

The number might be preceded by the country code of the issuing country which can consist of one or three letters.

Spotting the Number on a Green Card

For permanent residents of the United States, the Green Card holds the Travel Document Number, which is crucial for re-entry to the U.S. after travel abroad among other immigration processes.

Where to Look: – On newer versions of the Green Card ( Form I-551), the Travel Document Number is found on the front side and is labeled as the “USCIS #” or “Card #.” – This number is typically 13 characters long, beginning with three letters followed by a series of 10 numbers.

It’s important to differentiate this number from the Alien Registration Number (A-Number) which is also found on your green card and serves a different purpose.

Additional Documents Containing a Travel Document Number

Other travel-related documents like travel refugee documents, advance parole documents, and certain forms of identification may also contain a Travel Document Number.

Where to Look: – For travel refugee documents and advance parole , the number is usually on the top left corner on the face of the document. – For other forms of identification , like driver’s licenses or state IDs for example, the equivalent of a Travel Document Number would be the ID or license number.

Importance of Your Travel Document Number

“The Travel Document Number is a key piece in the puzzle of international travel documentation. It’s a unique fingerprint for your travel document that’s recognized globally. Tracking this number helps immigration control with verification processes at border entry points, as well as aiding travelers in retrieving their records and proving their identities,” quotes an immigration expert.

In administrative processes, you’ll often be required to provide your Travel Document Number. For example, if you’re completing the Form I-90 for a green card renewal, or engaging in travel where re-entry permits or your travel history are necessary for verification.

Keeping Your Travel Document Number Safe

Your Travel Document Number is sensitive personal information that should be kept secure. Just like other personally identifiable information, it can be used fraudulently if it falls into the wrong hands. Always be mindful of where and to whom you’re providing your Travel Document Number.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, a new immigrant, or simply trying to maintain your immigration status, understanding where to find and how to use your Travel Document Number is vital. Keep this number at your fingertips and, most importantly, secure, as it is as vital to your travel identity as your name and date of birth.

For more information on travel documents and related immigration matters, you can visit the U.S. Department of State’s passport page or the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website for resources on visas and green cards. These official sources can provide authoritative guidance on any additional questions you may have regarding your immigration documents and their numbers.

Still Got Questions? Read Below to Know More

If i lose my passport while abroad, how do i recover my travel document number to get emergency travel documents.

If you lose your passport while abroad, the process to recover your Travel Document Number and obtain emergency travel documents typically involves the following steps:

• Report the Loss : Immediately report your lost passport to the local police and obtain a police report. This will be necessary when applying for a replacement or emergency travel document.
• Locate the Nearest Embassy or Consulate : Contact your country’s embassy or consulate in the country you are in. They can help you with the next steps and inform you about the requirements for obtaining emergency travel documents.
• Provide Necessary Information : When you contact your embassy or consulate, they may ask for any information you have regarding your lost passport and Travel Document Number. If you don’t remember the number, they might be able to look it up using your personal details, such as your full name, date of birth, and place of birth.

It is a good practice to keep a photocopy or digital scan of your passport separate from the physical passport itself when traveling abroad. This can help expedite the process, as it may contain your Travel Document Number and other identifying information. If you don’t have these details, embassy or consulate staff may still be able to assist you by accessing their records.

“Embassies and consulates can issue an Emergency Travel Document (ETD) to help you return home if your passport is lost or stolen. To apply for an ETD, you will usually be required to prove your identity, complete an application form, and provide a passport photo.”

For country-specific information and procedures, visit the official government or embassy website of your home country. Here are some examples for reference: – United States: U.S. Department of State – Passports – United Kingdom: GOV.UK – Overseas British passport applications – Canada: Government of Canada – Lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found passports

Remember, always keep the embassy contact details handy, as they are your primary resource for assistance in such situations.

What should I do if there’s a typo in the Travel Document Number on my immigration paperwork?

If you have discovered a typo in the Travel Document Number on your immigration paperwork, it is important to address the error promptly to avoid any potential issues with your travel or immigration process. Here’s what you should do:

• Contact the Issuing Authority : As soon as you notice the typo, reach out to the issuing authority of the document. This might be the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) if you are dealing with U.S. immigration paperwork, or the equivalent authority in another country if the mistake is on documentation for a different destination. You can contact USCIS by phone at their National Customer Service Center (1-800-375-5283) or use the appropriate contact method for other countries’ immigration services.

Submit a Request for Correction : You may need to fill out a form or submit a written request for the document to be corrected. For example, for USCIS, use the “Typographical Error” option on the e-Request page to report errors on a notice you received. If your request pertains to a visa or a document related to entry into another country, follow their specific procedures for document corrections.

Provide Supporting Documentation : Include evidence of the correct information when you request the correction. This might be a copy of your passport, birth certificate, or other official documentation that clearly shows the accurate Travel Document Number.

Here is a link to the USCIS e-Request service, where you can report a typographical error:

USCIS e-Request Service

Remember, it’s crucial to provide detailed information regarding the typo and to act quickly to ensure your immigration process remains on track. If you’re not sure about the process or require further assistance, consider seeking help from an immigration lawyer or an accredited representative.

Will my Travel Document Number change if I renew my visa or is it assigned for life?

When you renew your visa, you may receive a new Travel Document Number, also known as the passport number. This number is not assigned for life and typically changes each time you get a new passport. The Travel Document Number is unique to each passport, so when your passport is renewed or replaced due to expiration, damage, or loss, the issuing authority will give you a passport with a new number.

Here’s what you need to know about Travel Document Numbers:

• Visa Stickers: If you have a visa sticker in your passport, the Travel Document Number on your visa will match your current passport number. When you renew your visa, the visa sticker will have a new Travel Document Number corresponding to your new passport.
• Electronic Visas: For electronic visas, such as the U.S. ESTA, you must update your information with the new passport number if you get a new passport, as your authorization is linked to a specific passport number.

Keep in mind that visas and passports are different documents. A visa is a stamp or sticker placed in your passport or an electronic authorization tied to your passport number, granting you permission to enter, leave, or stay in a particular country for a specified period. A passport is an official travel document issued by your country that certifies your identity and nationality.

For the most accurate and updated information, you should check with the official immigration website of the country you are planning to visit. For U.S. visas and travel documents, the U.S. Department of State’s website is a reliable resource: U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs .

In summary, your Travel Document Number will change when you renew your passport and, consequently, when you renew your visa to match the new passport. Always ensure your travel documents are up-to-date before traveling.

Can family members share the same Travel Document Number if they’re traveling together?

Typically, family members cannot share the same Travel Document Number when traveling together as each traveler needs to have a unique document issued in their own name. A Travel Document Number is a unique identifier for an individual’s travel document, such as a passport, which is required to track and manage their crossings and stays in different countries.

For example, in the United States, each traveler must present their own passport or other approved travel document when entering or exiting the country. This number is used in various forms and applications, including visa applications and arrival/departure records (Form I-94).

The U.S. Department of State states that “A passport valid for travel to the United States with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States… is required for U.S. visas.”

However, children listed on a parent’s passport may be an exception in some circumstances, depending on the country’s rules from which the passport is issued, as some countries allow children to be included on a parent’s passport. But even in those cases, the parent and the child listed would still be seen as holding distinct travel document numbers for purposes of identification and processing by authorities.

For the most current and authoritative information regarding travel documents and procedures, always refer to official government websites, such as the U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) or the official immigration service of your destination country.

For a job application, they’re asking for identification numbers; is it safe to give my employer my Travel Document Number from my visa?

When filling out a job application, it’s not uncommon for employers to request identification numbers to verify your eligibility to work in the country. However, it’s important to distinguish between different types of identification numbers and understand what’s safe to provide.

Your Travel Document Number , which is found on your visa, is used primarily for entry and exit tracking by immigration services and isn’t usually needed for domestic purposes, such as a job application. Instead, employers typically ask for your Social Security number (SSN) or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) number if you are authorized to work in the country but do not have an SSN. Here’s what you should generally provide: – For U.S. citizens or permanent residents : Social Security number. – For non-citizens who are authorized to work : EAD number, which comes from the employment authorization document provided by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Or your Visa Sponsorship employment details if applicable.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security provides a list of acceptable documents for proving eligibility to work in the I-9 form found here . Before providing any personal information, make sure you are sharing it through secure channels and with a verified employer. As a best practice, do not share more personal information than necessary and certainly not until you are confident with the legitimacy of the request.

If you have any doubts, you can always ask the employer why they need the travel document number and how they plan to use it to ensure it is for a legitimate purpose or check with an immigration attorney or the immigration authority in the country where you are applying for a job. For questions related to U.S. immigration and employment, USCIS is the authoritative source for information and can be found at USCIS.gov .

Learn Today:

Immigration Documents: Official documents that are required for immigration purposes such as visas, passports, green cards, travel refugee documents, advance parole documents, and forms of identification.

Travel Document Number: A unique identifier assigned to various travel-related documents used for immigration or travel purposes. It helps immigration and border control authorities verify the authenticity of the document and track the traveler’s travel history. The Travel Document Number may also be referred to as a visa number, control number, passport number, USCIS #, or Card # depending on the document.

Visa Number: The Travel Document Number on a visa. It is used to retrieve visa records and is located in different places depending on the country that issued the visa.

Information Page: The page in a passport that contains the traveler’s photograph, name, date of birth, and passport expiration date. The Travel Document Number can usually be found on this page.

Passport Number: The Travel Document Number on a passport. It is used to identify the passport holder and can be found on the information page of the passport.

Green Card: A permanent resident card issued by the United States that grants an individual the right to live and work in the country. The Green Card contains a Travel Document Number, labeled as the “USCIS #” or “Card #,” which is important for various immigration processes.

Alien Registration Number (A-Number): A unique identifier assigned to individuals who are immigrants in the United States. It is found on the Green Card but serves a different purpose than the Travel Document Number.

Advance Parole: A document that allows certain individuals who are in the process of adjusting their immigration status to travel outside the United States and return.

Driver’s License/ID Number: The equivalent of a Travel Document Number on other forms of identification such as driver’s licenses or state IDs. It is used to identify the individual and can vary depending on the issuing authority.

Sensitive Personal Information: Personal information that, if obtained by unauthorized individuals, could be used for fraudulent purposes or identity theft.

Form I-90: The application form used to renew or replace a Green Card.

Re-Entry Permit: A document that allows a permanent resident of the United States to travel abroad for an extended period without abandoning their permanent resident status.

Verification: The process of confirming the authenticity and validity of a document or information provided.

U.S. Department of State: The federal department in the United States responsible for handling foreign affairs and issuing travel documents such as passports.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): The agency within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that oversees immigration and naturalization in the United States. They handle visa applications, green cards, and other immigration-related matters.

Resources: Official sources of information, websites, or organizations that provide authoritative guidance and information on specific topics. In the context of immigration, resources can include the U.S. Department of State’s passport page and the USCIS website.

So, there you have it! Understanding your Travel Document Number doesn’t have to be a headache. From visas to passports and green cards, knowing where to find this crucial identifier is key. And if you want to dive deeper into the world of immigration and travel documents, be sure to check out visaverge.com for more helpful tips and information. Happy travels!

This Article in a Nutshell:

Understanding your Travel Document Number is crucial when navigating immigration documents. It’s a unique identifier used for travel purposes. On visas, it may be labeled as a visa number or control number. On passports, it’s commonly referred to as the passport number. Green cards also have a Travel Document Number. Keep it secure!

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5 Different Types of Travel Document Number

Many people love traveling to visit new places, sample delicious local cuisines, experience vibrant cultures and see stunning sights. However, there’s also the admin side of travel, which can be less fun – and in some cases, even downright stressful.

Part of this can involve filling out lots of forms and worrying about getting things wrong, so to help you avoid any mistakes, in this post, we deal with one vital issue as we answer the question, what is a travel document number?

Travel Document Number Overview

Whenever you travel, you need to be able to prove who you are and that you have the right to travel in the country or region where you are traveling, and dedicated travel documents serve this purpose.

There are several possible types of possible travel document. The best-known and most useful is the passport, which alone may entitle you to travel to certain countries, but you may also need additional documents, most often a visa, to be allowed into a particular country.

All travel documents carry an individual number or alphanumeric code. This unique number identifies the carrier of the document, proving who they are and permitting local authorities to track them as well as helping ensure they remain safe.

This allows countries to effectively control their borders by regulating who comes into and goes out of their national territory.

The number found on any travel document, whether it’s a passport, a visa or anything else, is referred to as a travel document number – so now let’s have a look at the different types of travel document and the numbers found on them.

1. Travel Document Number on Passports

To exit countries and enter other countries, most people will need a passport as their primary travel document, although there are exceptions to this, as we shall see later in this post.

A passport is required for the holder to pass through customs and immigration when leaving their country, and it is also used to enter other countries where visa-free travel is permitted.

It also serves as a universal form of ID, and it can be used to prove one’s identity anywhere in the world, regardless of which other forms of identification are accepted. In this sense, passports are essentially the world’s primary international identification document.

A passport includes certain details about the holder – for example, their names and their date of birth. Some passports may also contain information such as height or eye color.

All passports have a unique number on them. A US passport, for example, includes a nine-digit code while a French passport carries a code that consists of numbers and letters.

This number is usually found on the page that carries all of the traveler’s other personal details as well as their passport photo.

When asked to show or provide a travel document number for international travel, this usually refers to the passport number unless otherwise stated.

2. Travel Document Number on Visas

Visas are supplemental travel documents that citizens of certain countries may require to enter countries that have no visa-free travel arrangement with their home country.

For example, in addition to their passport, US citizens require a visa to enter China.

Usually, you will need to apply for a visa from the local embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit before you travel. However, some countries now also offer a visa-on-arrival service to many nationalities.

Visas allow countries to run checks on the people who are traveling there, and they also include specific details about the terms of the travel.

For example, a visa usually specifies how long a person may remain in the country, and it also states the purpose of the visit, such as tourism or work. This means that a person holding a tourist visa is not allowed to work in the country during their visit.

Visas normally consist of a sticker that is attached to a page in your passport, and this sticker includes a visa number.

The visa number is also unique and serves to identify the holder as well as the conditions of the visit.

Visa numbers are different from your passport number and are considered another type of travel document number. When required to provide your visa number on a form, the form will specify that this is the number you need to use.

3. Travel Document Number on Green Cards

When citizens of foreign countries are granted permanent residence in the United States, they receive a so-called Green Card.

This is the card that proves their right to reside in the US, but it does not replace a passport. This means that holders of a Green Card need to carry a passport with them to pass through US customs and immigration – the Green Card alone will not grant them entry.

However, if you are a Green Card holder, you should carry your Green Card along with your passport since you will be able to use it to prove that you have the right to enter the US as a permanent resident.

Each Green Card also has a unique number to identify the holder, although a Green Card is not usually referred to as a “travel document” as such.

If you are required to provide this number, it will be specified that you are required to provide your Green Card number – officially referred to as your “permanent resident card”.

4. Travel Document Number on ID cards

In certain areas and under certain conditions, a passport is not required for international travel.

For example, citizens of countries in the European Union are entitled to travel to other EU countries using only their national ID cards. As a result, many Europeans who have never been to a country outside the EU don’t have a passport since they’ve never needed to apply for one.

Similar arrangements may apply between other countries in other parts of the world.

In this case, when asked to provide a travel document number, this would refer to the ID number found on the national ID card.

In a situation like this, if you were filling in a form that asked for a travel document number, it would refer either to your passport or your national ID number, whichever of the two you were using as your travel ID and whichever you present to pass through immigration.

In this case, if you were carrying a passport, you could enter either your passport number or your ID number, but if you didn’t have a passport and were traveling with just your ID card, then this would be the number you would provide.

5. International travel without passports or other documents

For US citizens, it is possible to enter certain countries and territories without a passport, although this is usually only the case when entering via a land or sea border rather than by plane.

For example, US citizens can enter Canada via a land border with a passport card (different from a full passport) or a NEXUS card. However, when arriving by air, a passport card isn’t enough, and you’ll need a NEXUS card or a full passport.

If traveling with a NEXUS card or passport card, the number on this form of ID will be the travel document number you need to provide when asked.

Similarly, when entering Mexico, US citizens don’t need a full passport. Instead, a passport card or an Enhanced Driver’s License is sufficient. Again, in this case, the number on these forms of ID is your travel document number when required to produce one.

Other territories that don’t require US citizens to carry a passport include Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the US Virgin Islands and the Northern Mariana Islands.

Why do we use the non-specific term “travel document number”?

In most cases, “travel document number” refers to your passport number unless something else is stated specifically, such as a visa number.

However, sometimes it is possible to travel internationally without a passport, in which case the term “travel document number” is used since it also includes other valid forms of ID.

Is your travel document number the same on different documents?

No, your passport number, ID number and any visa numbers will all be different.

Is “passport” the same as “travel document”?

No. A passport is one type of travel document, and it is the one that is universally accepted. However, other types of travel document exist.

Some can be used instead of a passport, like an ID. Others, like visas, need to be used in conjunction with your passport to allow you to travel.

Do you need a passport to travel?

In general, you will need a passport for international travel. However, depending on your home country and the country you are traveling to, there are some exceptions to this.

Usually a passport number is what’s meant unless otherwise stated

As we’ve seen, there are several types of travel document, and each has a unique number, so it can sometimes be difficult to know which one to give.

However, generally speaking, “travel document number” usually refers to a passport or the document you are using instead of a passport – and if anything else like a visa number is required, this will be asked for specifically.

Jennifer Morris is an avid solo travel adventurer who founded Solo Traveller after many years of journeying on her own around the world. She has backpacked through over 50 countries across 6 continents over the past decade, striking up conversations with locals along railway platforms, learning to cook regional dishes in home kitchens, and absorbing a global perspective while volunteering with various community initiatives.

With a Masters in Tourism and Hospitality, Jennifer is passionate about responsible and meaningful travel that fosters cultural exchange. Whether trekking through the Atlas Mountains, sailing to Komodo National Park, or taking an overnight train across Eastern Europe - she is always seeking her next epic destination.

When not globetrotting, Jennifer calls Vancouver, Canada home. There she enjoys kayaking local waters, curling up with books on faraway places, and gearing up for her next solo backpacking trip. As the founder of SoloTraveller, she hopes to motivate and inform fellow solo explorers from all walks of life to take the leap into their own adventures.

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What is a travel document number?

Traveling abroad requires all individuals to have an official identification document with a photo issued and verified by their national government. For traveling within the US, the most common document people bring is their native state driver’s license while in most other countries, a picture ID is usually enough. However, traveling abroad requires more proof than just an ID card or a driving license, such as a passport, a visa, a green card, or in some cases, a federal I.D. card. 

To put it simply, a travel document number is a set of digits that helps authorities recognize every individual who travels abroad. The number can be found in the document you’re using for travel, such as your visa, your passport, etc. In the simplest form, this is the unique identifier of your passport that serves as one traveler’s unique identity document. The number is used in government records, for the visa application process, etc. It’s crucial in gathering accurate tourism statistics but also in controlling border safety.

What types of travel documents are there?

Some of the most important travel documents in the US feature a visa, a passport card, a green card, a 1-94 Form, an ESTA form, and of course, a passport. In this section, we’ll briefly explain all of the above-mentioned travel documents.

This is probably the most important travel document you can get. The passport is issued by one’s native country and helps individuals to prove their identity when traveling. In the United States, passports are issued by the Department of State and this document allows American citizens to travel anywhere in the world.

Benefits of having a passport

The primary benefit of having a passport is travel convenience; a legitimate passport can allow you to travel anywhere in the world. Additionally, your passport can serve as a valid photo ID that can prove your identity, nationality, age, address, etc.

And last but not least, by owning a passport you get visa-free entry to countries that don’t require a visa for residents of certain countries. For example, residents of the United States can travel to more than 100 countries without applying for a visa. Japanese passport holders, on the other hand, can travel to 191 countries visa-free, making their national passport, the “strongest” passport in the world according to the  Henley Passport Index .

Where to find your passport’s travel document number?

If you’re a US passport holder, you will be able to find your travel document number in the upper right-hand corner of your document on the page where your photo is located. The number is usually a series of numbers and letters that connect your name to your travel document in government records. Alternatively, if you own a Passport Card, your travel document number will be stated on the front side or on the second page, if you have a Passport Book.

How to get a passport?

This depends on the country you come from but the first step is to make sure you’re eligible for applying. To get a passport from a certain country, the first step is you have to be a citizen of that country. If you are, you’d have to file an application in the appropriate department of the government. In the United States, that would be the US Department of State while in most European countries, that would be the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or a special unit under the jurisdiction of one of these two ministries.

For most passports, you’d have to submit a written application signed by you accompanied by a government-issued ID card that proves your citizenship. Before the application is processed, you’d have to pay a fee and have your photo taken.

Do you have to pay for anything?

If you’re a US resident, the normal price of a passport is $110 for adults and $80 for minors. If you’re applying for a passport for the first time, you’d also have to pay an execution fee of $35. When you renew your passport, you don’t have to pay this fee and only have to pay the fee of $110 or $80.

The waiting time for a passport, on average, is around 7-8 weeks. If you want to get expedited service, you’d have to pay an extra $60 and if you’d want to have your passport delivered to you within 1-2 days, you’d have to pay an additional $17.13. For more information regarding the pricing and application procedures, you can always check out  this official government website .

If you’re planning to travel to a country that doesn’t have visa-free entry for your country’s residents, you would have to get a visa. Visas are issued by the immigration department of each country. In the US, that’s the USCIS. This department determines who can enter their country and who can not, based on the information the department has about the applicants.

The visa application form allows the Immigration department to determine the reason for your visit and the conditions of your stay, such as the length of your stay, the activities you’re allowed to engage in, etc. Most of the time, visas are either stamped on a page in your passport or can take the form of an official document.

How to get a visa?

To apply for a visa, go to the nearest embassy or consulate. Some countries may have embassies and consulates in your country, others may not. This mainly depends on the diplomatic relations between your native country and the country you want to travel to. In case there isn’t an embassy or a consulate in your country, you can apply for a visa in one of the embassies in the neighboring countries (that has jurisdiction over your native country) or if the conditions permit, apply for an e-visa or visa on arrival.

Despite the method of the application (physical, e-visa, or visa on arrival), there are certain forms you need to fill to get your visa approved and a certain fee you need to pay in form of visa-processing fees.

Where to find your travel document number on a visa?

The visa’s travel document number is also known as a visa number and is often printed in a different color from the rest of the document. US visas have their document number in red color on the bottom right corner of the visa that’s stamped in your passport but visas issued in other countries may have their number printed on another position but it’s usually quite easy to recognize. Most visas include 7 or more numbers and sometimes a few letters.

How much does a visa cost?

This depends on three main factors.

• The first and most important one being the country you want to visit.
• The second is the purpose of your visit and the length of your stay.
• And the final factor that you have to take into consideration is the country you’re coming from.

Let’s explain every individual factor.

Every country has a different visa policy. For example, a tourist visa for Russia costs $170 or more for most visitors, DR Congo charges around $200 for most visitors but up to $400 in some cases, making it arguably the world’s most expensive visa while a visa for Bangladesh costs just as much as a tourist visa for the US ($160).

The next factor you have to take into consideration is the reason for your visit. A business visa will always be more expensive than work and tourist visas but also, work and business visas are usually issued for one or more years while tourist visas are usually valid for 3-6 months from the issuing date. Moreover, the longer you want to stay , the higher the price for the visa will be.

Finally, the visa cost depends on the country you’re coming from and its diplomatic relations with the country you want to visit. For example, we can take DR Congo that charges $200 for a tourist visa for US residents but up to $400 USD for residents of other countries.

A green card is a document that allows permanent residence in a country and turns you into an expat . It’s usually issued by the Immigration Department of the country you want to stay in and usually comes after one has proven his/her eligibility for a green card. Technically, the green card is not a travel document itself but it sure can make travel a lot easier when used in conjunction with your passport.

When it comes to individuals living abroad, it is essential to have a reliable health insurance plan that covers the duration of their stay. This is particularly important for expats who are considering relocating and working overseas. Fortunately, there are specialized companies like SafetyWing that cater to the needs of digital nomads and expats. To learn more, you can read an unbiased review of SafetyWing .

You might also like: Which are the most common national tourist stereotypes and how true are they?

Where to find your green card number?

Often referred to as “receipt number” the number of your green card can be as many as 13 digits long (in the US, it’s 3 letters + 10 numeric digits). In most countries, the number is printed directly on the backside of your residence card (most often in the center).

How to get a green card?

First of all, you need to be eligible for residency and you need to be able to prove your eligibility by following the local procedures. There are a lot of ways in which you can get a green card. Some of the most common ones are through a family member who’s a resident, through employment, as a refugee, as a special immigrant, as an asylum seeker, etc. You can see all eligibility categories  here .

How much does a green card cost?

This varies based on the country you want to stay in. Among the world’s wealthiest countries, the US is the country that issues the most green cards. A US Green Card costs $1225 for adults and $750 for kids aged 13 and younger in addition to a $85 biometric fee. After paying the fee, you’ll have to fill up a form (in this case 1-485) online, provide all necessary documents, and wait for your interview. It usually takes between 5 and 6 months to get a green card. In the United States, the green card allows you to stay in the country for up to 10 years.

FAQ about travel document number

If you still have some additional questions about your passport and travel document number, keep reading. Here are a few frequently asked questions. 

Do all of my travel documents have the same travel document number?

No, because every document is a separate entity and serves a slightly different purpose. Your passport is used for traveling abroad, your visa allows you entrance in a single country, while your green card serves as a residence permit for a certain country.

What’s the difference between my passport number and my travel document number?

The passport number is one type of travel document number. All of your travel documents (visa, green card, etc.) have a unique identifying number. Your passport is just one of them.

What is the meaning of every travel document number?

Depending on your native country and the country you’re traveling to, different travel documents will be required. And each of the required document has its own unique travel document number and its own meaning. For example, the passport number is used to tie your name with all of the important information about you in your native country (i.e. criminal record) that the Immigration authorities of the country you’re visiting.

Why are my passport and travel document number important?

Firstly, because they allow you to travel the globe. Just because of the numbers on the upper right corner of your passport that help Immigration departments around the world to pull publicly available information about you from your government’s records. The passport might look like a small notebook but it’s much more than that. It shows all of your travel history, visas, and also serves as an ID and citizenship proof. Additionally, your passport number helps customs officials to keep an eye on your movements while staying in their country. This is why your passport and document number are so important.

While traveling abroad, make sure you take really good care of your travel documents because if you damage your documents in a way that your travel document number is not visible, or even worse, lose your passport, you may find yourself in a very difficult situation. That’s why it’s highly suggested that you don’t carry your travel documents everywhere unless that’s strictly required from the country you’re traveling to. Photocopies of your respective travel documents are always a good solution.

Did you find this guide helpful? Did it help you understand the meaning of your travel document number and distinguish between different travel documents? Are you ready to pack your bags and go travel after this article? Let us know in the comments!

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Travel Document Numbers: The Complete Guide

Traveling internationally requires proper identification, and the travel document number plays a vital role in ensuring that individuals possess valid travel documents.

A travel document number is a unique identifier assigned to official travel documents such as passports, visas, and green cards. This number serves as a critical tool for governments to verify the authenticity of these documents, track tourists, and maintain border security.

Understanding the importance of travel document numbers is essential for both seasoned travelers and first-time tourists. Whether embarking on a long-awaited vacation or attending an important overseas business meeting, individuals should be familiar with the different types of travel documents and their corresponding numbers.

Each travel document number can be found on its respective form of identification, such as the passport, visa, or green card, and is crucial for various government records and the visa application process.

Key Takeaways

• Travel document numbers are unique identifiers on passports, visas, and green cards that serve to authenticate and track individuals’ travel records.
• Different types of travel documents, such as passports and visas, each have their respective unique travel document number that serves various purposes, including government records and applications.
• Familiarizing oneself with travel document numbers, their importance, and relevant procedures can aid travelers in maintaining a smooth and hassle-free international travel experience.

Structure of Travel Document Numbers

The components and structure of a TDN depend on the type of travel document and the issuing country. In general, the TDN consists of a combination of letters, numbers, or both, and may vary in length. For example:

• Passports : Passport numbers are typically composed of alphanumeric characters. Some countries may use a specific pattern or begin with certain letters to distinguish their passports. The length of passport numbers can range from 6 to 10 characters.
• Visas : Visa numbers are also unique alphanumeric identifiers, but their structure often depends on the type of visa (e.g., tourist, work, student) and the issuing country’s practices.
• Green Cards : For permanent residents in the United States, the travel document number is the same as their Alien Registration Number (A-Number). This number is unique to each individual and consists of 7 to 9 digits.

It is important to note that each country may have its own specific protocols and formats for travel document numbers, some of which may include additional security features such as holographic overlays, embedded microchips, or unique barcode structures.

These additional measures serve to enhance document security and prevent fraud or forgery.

Types of Travel Documents

A passport is an essential travel document that serves as a government-issued ID for international travel. It validates the identity and nationality of the individual holding it. Each passport carries a unique passport number that tracks a person’s travel history and ensures the authenticity of the document. It is a mandatory document for international trips and plays a critical role in the visa application process.

A visa is a travel document that signifies permission granted by one country’s government to a foreigner to enter and remain within that country for a specified period. There are different types of visas, such as tourist, business, and student visas. Each visa has its own unique requirements and application process. When submitting a visa application, one will typically fill out a DS-160 form and provide their passport number. The U.S. visa number is found at the bottom right-hand corner of the visa, usually printed in red.

Passport Cards

Passport cards are wallet-sized IDs, only valid for specific types of land and sea travel between the United States, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. While they are more compact and affordable than traditional passports, they cannot be used for air travel. Similar to passports, passport cards have unique identification numbers that allow for smooth travel throughout the specified regions.

Refugee Travel Documents

Refugee travel documents are issued to people who have been granted asylum or refugee status in a foreign country. These documents allow them to travel outside their country of residence without fear of being sent back to their home country. The process for obtaining a refugee travel document typically involves filing a Form I-131 , the Application for a Travel Document. The document number is assigned upon approval and, like passports and visa numbers, helps track and verify an individual’s international travels.

Other Travel-Related Documents

• Advance Parole : This document allows individuals with temporary legal status in the United States to leave and re-enter without forfeiting their residence status. It is often granted to those in the process of adjusting their legal status or those with pending asylum or refugee claims.
• Re-entry Permit : A re-entry permit is a travel authorization granted to lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) of the United States. It allows them to re-enter the country after an extended period abroad, usually for trips longer than one year.
• Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Travel Authorization : Individuals from designated countries facing ongoing armed conflict, natural disasters, or other extraordinary circumstances may receive TPS authorization. This status permits holders to stay and work in the United States for a limited period without fear of removal. It also allows them to travel outside the country and return with prior approval.

Each of these travel-related documents has its own unique document number, which ensures proper tracking and record-keeping. With an extensive range of travel documents available, it is important for individuals to obtain the appropriate documentation to fit their needs.

Renewing Travel Documents

When it comes to passport renewal , it is crucial to plan ahead. Many countries require that a traveler’s passport is valid for at least six months beyond their planned departure date. To renew a passport, applicants should complete the necessary forms and gather the required documentation, such as proof of citizenship, a passport-sized photo, and the applicable fee.

For individuals holding green cards , renewal is typically necessary every ten years. The process involves submitting Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, along with evidence of identity and a filing fee. It is essential to start this process well before the expiration date to avoid any complications with your legal status in the United States.

Expiration of Travel Documents

Expiration dates on travel documents vary depending on the issuing authority and the type of document. For passports, expiry dates are usually:

• 10 years for adult passports (16 years and older)
• 5 years for child passports (under 16)

Green cards generally expire after ten years, but conditional green cards (issued upon marriage) are valid for only two years, after which the holder must apply to remove the conditions before the card expires.

It is vital to understand the expiration dates for your travel documents and renew them accordingly to avoid inconveniences and delays when traveling internationally. By staying proactive and keeping your documents current, you can ensure a smooth and efficient travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes a travel document number for esta applications.

A travel document number is a unique identifier that is typically found on an essential travel document such as a passport. When applying for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), you will need to provide your passport number as your travel document number. This number can be found on the information page of your passport.

Where can I find the document number on my passport or travel-related form?

The document number on your passport can be located on the information page, which usually features your photograph, name, date of birth, nationality, and other identifying information. The number is typically at the top right or bottom right corner of the page. In the case of other travel-related forms, the document number is often prominently displayed on the form and should be clearly labeled.

Is the USCIS number the same as the travel document number?

No, the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) number and the travel document number are not the same. The USCIS number is a unique identifier issued to individuals upon the approval of their immigration case or application, while a travel document number is associated with official travel documents such as passports, visas, and Green Cards.

How do I locate the travel document number on an I-539 form?

The I-539 form, used for extending or changing nonimmigrant status in the United States, does not contain a travel document number. Instead, refer to the relevant travel document, such as your passport or visa, to locate the required number.

Is a nonimmigrant visa number the same as a travel document number?

A nonimmigrant visa number is a specific type of travel document number assigned to individuals issued a nonimmigrant visa for temporary visits to the United States. This number is different from a passport number and can be found on the visa itself, typically in the top right or bottom right corner.

What differentiates a travel document from a standard passport?

A travel document is a general term that covers various types of identification required for international travel, such as passports, visas, and Green Cards. A standard passport is a specific type of travel document issued by a country to its citizens, which allows them to travel internationally and serves as proof of citizenship.

Other travel documents like visas or Green Cards serve different purposes, such as permitting entry or allowing permanent residence in a foreign country.

What Is A Travel Document Number?

Are you looking for a clear and concise guide on travel document numbers? Then you’re in the right place because that’s exactly what I’ll be talking about right here!

Travel documents are necessary for international travel, and every such document that exists has a unique number that serves as a personal identifier. How do they work, where can you find them, and what’s their point are a few of the questions I’ll answer in this detailed guide. So, read on to learn more about travel document numbers and their purpose!

What Is A Travel Document?

Let’s start with the basics – a travel document is the primary identifying document for travelers in foreign countries . The most common type of travel document is a passport, but visas and IDs can also function as viable travel documents. In order to cross the border of any country, you need some sort of identifying travel document.

Passports are the identifiers, and whenever you’re filling a form that requires you to put in a travel document number, the serial number of your passport is usually enough.

Travel document numbers can also refer to the unique identifying numbers of visas and ID cards, but whenever that is the case, it is usually specified in the form. If you’re not sure which travel document number you’re required to input, your best bet is to ask the relevant authorities directly.

Travel documents can also be required for domestic travel. Passports are usually necessary for international travel, visas are required by certain countries for nationals of certain countries, and IDs are usually enough for domestic travel. Some neighboring countries allow their residents to travel between the borders with just IDs as well, but this only works for the nationals of those countries.

What’s A Travel Document Number? 

A travel document number is a unique combination of letters and numbers that allows for the identification of a travel document. Just like every car has a unique chassis number and every laptop has a unique serial number, every travel document issued legally has its own unique number.

That number serves as an identifier for that specific document and its owner. Its purpose is to allow officials to keep track of people who travel to and through countries, and to make sure that everything is in order. Keep in mind that you should carry a travel document with you at all times when traveling internationally – at the very least, keep a photo of your passport’s information page on your phone.

Different countries can have different systems in place for issuing travel document numbers, meaning that one country can have a 13-character document number for their passports, and another one can opt to issue passports with 6-character identifiers.

It’s also possible for passports issued in the same country to have identifying codes of varying lengths. This is very common in the United States – US passports usually have between 6 and 9 characters, depending on where the document was issued, who it was issued to, what purpose it was issued for, etc.

When Will I Need A Travel Document (Number)?

You will need a travel document for both domestic and international travel, obviously. But that’s certainly not the only scenario in which you might be asked to list the serial number of your travel document, so keep reading.

In some EU countries, foreigners are required to report their stay to the relevant authorities. This can usually be done at a local police station, the town hall, or tourism authorities. You must report your stay within a day or two of entering the country (it depends on the specific country), and you will be asked for your travel document number. If you’re staying at a hotel, you usually don’t have to worry about this, since hotels do this for all their guests.

Additionally, street checks by police officers are common in most countries in the world. It hasn’t happened to me personally yet, but a police officer can stop you and ask for ID. Foreigners are required to present their passports, which is why you should always carry your passport with you while you’re traveling abroad.

Passport Document Number

Passports are the most important travel documents for international travel. Every country on the planet has its own unique passport, and every single one of those passports has a unique identifying number. That allows officials to keep track of who enters their country and how long they stay there, plus it helps prevent any illegal activity and wrongdoings.

The document number of passports is usually located in the upper right corner of the information page. It can also be found at the bottom of that page, and in some passports, there can be a third instance just below the passport owner’s photograph. The number is usually labeled as “passport document number” or “passport serial number”, making it very easy to find.

Whenever you’re asked to enter your primary travel document number, in most cases it’s enough to enter the serial number of your passport since that is the primary travel document for most people.

US Passports: Booklet or Card Number?

The United States issue both passport cards and passport booklets to its citizens. Both function as unique travel documents, and they can’t be used interchangeably. A passport card is suitable for domestic travel, but it’s not a valid document for international travel. You can’t get a stamp or a visa if you just have a passport card, so you do need the booklet if you want to travel the world.

It’s worth noting that it is possible to travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean Islands with just a passport card. But that’s it and you will need a passport booklet to travel to other countries in the world.

The main difference between cards and booklets is the cost of issuing. Passport cards are just some $40, whereas booklets cost almost twice as much. Also, since these are both unique travel documents, they will have different document numbers, so don’t be confused by that.

If you’re asked for your travel document number, you should usually use the serial number of your passport booklet. The number of your passport card will work only if you’re traveling to one of the countries mentioned earlier in this segment.

Visa Document Number

If only we could travel the entire world with just our passports! Unfortunately, we can’t – a lot of countries still require a visa for certain foreigners, and you might be asked for the document number of your visa. This is where things can get confusing for some people since visas can feature several serial numbers.

The main document number of a visa is usually prominently displayed. In the EU Schengen visa, it’s in the top right corner of the document, way above all the other information. US visas feature the number in the bottom right corner, and it’s written in bright red color which makes it very easy to find.

Don’t confuse it with the control number – its sole purpose is for the US State Department to be able to keep track of various visa issuances, and it holds zero significance for the traveler.

Visas also include your passport number, and along with the visa number and the control number, it can be a bit confusing to find the right travel document number, especially if you’re not sure what you’re looking for.

That’s why the serial number of a visa is always different than the rest of the information on the page – it can be written in a different color, in a bigger font, or displayed separately from the other numbers.

ID Document Number

Sometimes it is possible to travel to a foreign country with just your ID or even a driver’s license. It’s worth noting that these instances are pretty rare and that the number of countries you can travel to without a passport is very limited. In most instances, citizens of a country can travel to some of its neighboring countries or overseas territories with just an ID, but it can never hurt to bring your passport as well.

Just like passports and visas, every ID has a unique identifying number. It’s usually listed under “identity card number” or “identity document number”, and it often contains both alphabetical letters and numbers.

Green Card Number

Green cards are specific for the United States and they’re issued only to permanent residents in the country. Getting a green card is a lengthy process since it is one of the most coveted identity documents in the world for most people who weren’t fortunate enough to be born in the US. Owning a green card allows you to live and work in the United States, but you still won’t be issued a US passport.

Green cards usually have two listed numbers – one that is listed as the A# (alien) or USCIS#, and another one which is the official green card identifying number. The A# is usually listed at the center on the front of a green card, and it’s the unique identifying number for the owner of that green card.

The other number is listed at the bottom on the back of a green card, and it has 13 characters – it usually starts with three letters, followed by ten numbers. This number also refers to the specific immigration case that led to the issuing of the green card, making it easy for relevant authorities to keep track of everything. 

It’s worth noting that you can’t travel internationally with just a green card – you still need your passport. However, a green card makes it much easier to travel back and forth between the US and your birth country, and it generally makes the entire process quicker and easier.

About the Author Anna Timbrook

Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.

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What Is a Travel Document Number?

If you plan to travel abroad, you’ll need a lot more than your belongings. You’ll need valid identification based on the country you’re traveling through or to. Every country differs, and the documentation you’ll need may vary, but one thing they all have in common is the travel document number.

Whether you carry a passport, visa, or other federal ID, each document has a travel document number. This is the number the government uses to ensure the document is valid and not fake.

Government agencies use these numbers to track tourists, keep the borders safe, and identify you as a traveler, ensuring you’re eligible to travel abroad.

Types of Travel Documents 

Before you travel, it’s important to find out what type of travel documents you need. Here are the most common.

Most people know what a passport is. It allows you to travel from your citizen country to countries abroad. It identifies you no matter which country you travel to as it’s a universally used document. 

You’ll use the passport to get through customs both in your home country and when you arrive at your destination. Your passport is often the first step to getting a visa if a visa is required to enter the country you plan to travel to. Even if you aren’t sure if you’ll need a visa or not, start with the passport as it’s the first step.

The Passport Travel Document Number

Every passport has a travel document number. You can find it in the top right-hand corner of the passport. It’s a 9-digit number, and no two passports have the same number.

Related Article | How Do I Get My Newborn In The US a Visa and Passport to Visit India?

Since a passport isn’t enough to visit every country, you may need a visa too. A visa is required to visit countries where you aren’t a citizen and passports aren’t accepted. In the United States, the USCIS determines who gets a visa to come into the United States. 

A visa is more detailed than a passport. It tells you what you’re allowed to do when you’re in a foreign country and how long you’re allowed to stay. To get a visa, you must get it from the country’s consulate you plan to visit, but in the United States. 

Before you apply for the visa, think about why you need it. Will you work in a foreign country or will you be a tourist? There are different types of visas based on your intentions. The visa process can take a while, so make sure you have all supporting documentation and pay close attention to the dates of your interview or other important dates.

To apply for a visa, you’ll need the visa application, which you can usually find online , your passport, application fee, and photo. You may also need to provide a reason for your trip and prove you have the finances to cover the cost of the trip. 

At the visa interview, you’ll answer questions and provide your fingerprints (usually digitally). If there’s further documentation needed, you’ll find out then. Otherwise, you should receive your visa shortly afterward.

The Visa Travel Document Number

You’ll find the Visa travel document number easily because it’s usually in a different color than the rest of the visa. In the United States, it’s on the lower right corner. 

Related Article |  Form DS-230: How to Obtain an Immigrant Visa in the U.S.

After you have a visa, you’ll need a Green Card if you want to become a permanent US resident. The USCIS issues the Green Card upon approval. However, you’ll still need a passport since Green Card holders aren’t citizens. A Green Card may make it easier to travel back and forth from your birth country to the US, smoothing the process along.

To apply for a Green Card, first, determine your eligibility and then complete application I-485. Like the visa, the USCIS will schedule an interview and determine your eligibility. 

The Green Card Travel Document Number

You can find your Green Card travel document number on the back of the Green Card. 

Related Article |  What Green Card Interview Questions Should You Expect?

What Is a Travel Document Number FAQ

Here are the most frequently asked questions about travel document numbers.

Is a Travel Document a Passport or Visa?

A travel document is any document you need to cross borders. In the case of traveling to the US from another country, you need a passport and a visa. The visa is a document inside your passport that provides more details and freedoms for your time in the US.

Who Needs a Travel Document?

Anyone traveling internationally will need some type of travel document. If you’re traveling to a tourist destination, a passport may be enough, but a visa may be necessary if you’re traveling anywhere to work or live for any length of time.

How Early Should You Apply for Travel Documents?

The USCIS website estimates how long each document may take but always err on the side of caution. On average, expect to wait at least a few months for any document.

Is a Passport Number the Same as a Travel Document Number? 

Yes, your passport number is your travel document number. You don’t have to know it or memorize it, but if you have a passport card and a passport booklet, understand that the two numbers will be different as each number is unique to the document.

How Much Does a Passport Cost?

The type of passport you need determines the cost. A US passport card is $30, a passport booklet is $110, and both are $140.

Related Article |  How Much Money Can I Bring Into The USA On A Plane?

The Bottom Line

Don’t leave home without your travel documents. While you don’t need to memorize your travel document number, just make sure you have the correct documentation for your destination. Getting your travel documents isn’t something you can do last minute - it takes plenty of preparation and time to get the documents you need. 

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What Is a Travel Document Number?

If you plan to travel abroad, you need to check your travel documents. But What is a travel document number?

Quick look: A travel document number is like a special ID for things like passports, visas, and Green Cards. Think of passports as your main ID for traveling abroad, and visas as the rules for your stay in another country.

To shed some light on this aspect, we’ve curated a guide covering the pitfalls you might run into. Hence, we’ve included passports, visas, and green cards in our summary. Here’s how to spot the travel document number on any of them.

What is a Travel Document Number?

In short, a travel document number acts as an identifier. It also helps in determining your eligibility to be in a certain country.

The travel document number is used alongside your photograph and personal information to confirm your identity.

As such, it plays a vital part in your legitimate stay in a foreign country. That’s why there are no two travel document numbers exactly alike.

At the same time, this number is essential for discovering frauds in time. Naturally, tempering with this info is a felon everywhere in the world.

Types of Travel Documents  

There are several travel documents needed before going abroad. They vary depending on the type of your visit and how long you will be staying. These are the three most common travel documents:

• Green cards

Passports are the oldest and thus most used type of travel document. They contain all the details regarding your personal data and a frontal photo of the holder. You get a passport from your birth country, which is usually valid for five to ten years .

Inside, officials will mark all the trips you’ve made within that period. After it expires, you must renew it via a regular procedure.    

A password looks like a small booklet filled with the holder’s travel history. On top of that, passports can double up as identification cards, meaning they’re also proof of citizenship.

Since 2007, the United States has digitized its passports. The passports come as cards with an electronic chip at the back which holds the information. The chip at the back holds the unique travel number, special identifier, digital signature, and a photo.

A passport has a lot of information; however, officials will always ask for its number before anything else. All these unique identifiers are kept in the government’s database. Custom officials can also use this unique number to track your travels around the world.

Why Do You Need a Passport?

You need a passport to verify yourself with your country’s immigration officers. It shows that you have permission to get out of the country and your identity. Depending on those grounds, you’ll either get permission, or they will decline your request.

Hence, the other state’s authorities must verify your identity and the reason for your visit. Such processes are standard and help fight terrorism and other forms of crime.

Typically, you’ll also require a visa to enter a foreign country. However, you need a valid passport to apply for a visa. So, after you present your passport during your visa interview, the officials will track your history via the travel document number. Next, they will decide your eligibility for a visa.

A passport gives access to staying in a foreign country for a specific period without a visa. Countries have different periods when their citizens can stay abroad on a visa-free stay.

On this note, keep in mind that certain world countries issue passports allowing holders access to a wider range of foreign states by default. In other words, passports come with ranks regarding how much freedom to travel they provide.

So, you can refer to the Henley Passport Index to see the power that your country’s passport holds. For example, the Japanese passports give access to 191 countries without a visa, while the state of Iraq issues passports giving access to only 28.

Therefore, before going abroad, you should be aware of the regulations regarding visa-free visits. Otherwise, you could be in danger of deportation while still on vacation. 

How to Obtain a Passport

Different countries have different procedures for getting a passport. So, you must be aware of the series of steps before initiating the process. Typically, only the country’s citizens can apply for a passport. Also, each country has a special department handling these operations.

In general, the department of state is responsible for giving out passports. 

As for the required info, it always includes sharing your PII and your parents’. Also, you’ll need to attach several items to the application, most notably a frontal photo of yourself in the proper size.

Then, the board will check your claims and if there are no issues, expect to get a passport within the next ten days. 

Does a Passport Have a Travel Document Number?

A passport has a travel document number in the upper right corner of the doc. The passport number is on the front, very close to your photo. 

A passport’s travel number has nine digits, unique for every person. The first two numbers show which country issued that particular travel document. For instance, in the United States, people who got their passports from Washington have their passports starting with “01”.

A person who gets their passport as military personnel will find a travel number starting with “90”. 

Additionally, passports belonging to diplomats start with “90”, too. Lastly, if you get a passport due to a travel emergency, it will start with “Z” or “70”. 

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You will also require a visa to travel abroad. The department of citizenship and immigration issues visas in all countries.

In the US, the country’s citizenship and immigration services (USCIS) issue all visas. The department determines who gets into their country based on many factors.

Furthermore, a visa can be a separate document or permission attached to your passport. Either way, you need to apply for a visa through the desired country’s embassy found in your state.

A visa is a small document attached to a passport with an authorizing stamp. The visa has an expiration date deciding how long the holder is allowed to stay in that country. So, a visa can remain valid for weeks or even years, but it is not proof of permanent residence.

At the same time, the type of visa depends on the reason for your stay. Also, it’s followed by specific conditions attached to your visit to a certain country. A visa is used to travel to countries where you are not a citizen, and passports are not enough to grant entry.

Therefore, it contains more information than a passport. A visa outlines the period you are allowed to stay in a certain country, the reason for your visit, and the activities you can engage in during that period. 

Hence, don’t be surprised if you can enter only some of the world countries with your passport alone.

Before planning your next trip, double-check whether you’ll need to apply for a visa beforehand. In such cases, the border officers will request to see your visa and your passport before letting you in.

How to Get a Visa

You can apply for a visa at the embassy of the country you intend to travel to. For the United States, the US citizenship and immigration services (USCIS) decide who can come into the country. There are different types of visas depending on the reason for your visit.

Therefore, if you are going on vacation, you get a tourist visa, while people going abroad to work need a worker visa.

As for the visa application process, it starts with a standard interview designed to gauge your eligibility. There are also costs included in the application process. However, note that waiting for a visa is often lengthy and involves numerous steps.

You can find a visa application online at the respective department. The application requires a photo, passport, fee, and form. There are further inquiries into the reasons for your travel and whether you have the finances to support yourself during the trip.

The visa interview will inquire questions about your life, such as education and finances. They then proceeded to take your fingerprints; this happens digitally nowadays. Also, if you must provide extra information, they’ll let you know upon your first visit.

Does a Visa Have a Travel Document Number?

Visas do have travel document numbers, and they are in different colors for every country. A visa travel number contains eight digits, often composed of one letter and seven numbers. American visas have the travel document number at the bottom of the document in red color.

Greencards give you permanent residence abroad. You can get a green card from the US citizenship and immigration services (USCIS). However, you can only get a green card after showing eligibility using a visa. 

Why Do You Need a Green Card?

A green card grants permanent residence to a certain country; however, that doesn’t make you a citizen of that country. Therefore, even after obtaining a green card, you’ll still need a passport from your native country. 

How to Obtain a Green Card

You need to prove eligibility for a green card before applying for a green card. To get into the United States, you’ll probably require a visa. Once you enter the country, you’ll need a Form 1-94 traveling document. You should also fill in the 1-485 form.

These immigration records help increase your suitability for a green card. Also, to become eligible for a green card, you have to attend several interviews, just like a visa application.

Does a Green Card have a Travel Document Number?

You’ll find the green card’s travel number printed on its back. Another name for a green card travel number is a receipt number. This number has 13 characters; ten numbers and three letters. 

This content was created by travellingbase.com. If you see this on another site, it has been stolen.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Do all my documents have the same travel document number.

Each travel document has a different number, with a different total number of characters and structure. For instance, a passport has nine digits while a green card has 13 characters, three of them being letters.

Is the passport number the same as a travel document number?

Yes, the passport number is also the travel document’s number.

How much does it cost to get travel documents in the US?

Passport prices vary depending on the reason for your travel. In the US, the cheapest passport is around $110 for an adult and $80 for a minor. Additionally, there’s an application fee of $35.

You can take advantage of passport services that make the application for you and considerably reduce your waiting time. The services are in high demand and come at a price.

On the other hand, non-immigrant visas cost around $160. Similarly, these costs depend on the reason you are applying.

Lastly, a US green card is $1225 for a grown-up and $750 for minors up to 13 years. There are also additional application fees.

Typically, a travel document number is prominent on all types of travel documents. So, it stands out and is often at the top or bottom corners. As such, it’s one of the key elements of a valid travel document.

The passport’s travel document number consists of nine numbers; a visa has nine digits which may include a letter, while a green card has thirteen characters, of which the first three are letters. 

Also, you cannot use an expired passport or a visa to enter a foreign state. Therefore, you’ll need to apply for such a document or renew its validity. The same goes for tracking how long you can stay before returning home.

For instance, while passports and visas grant temporary stays, a green card has a permanent nature. Therefore, each of them contains various travel document numbers, so the officials can quickly check your status at all times.

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What is Travel Document Number & Passport Document | How to Get It

Traveling with a family may provide everyone involved with a plethora of great experiences. In addition, traveling to different areas can provide a variety of benefits.

The list includes things like making lifelong memories, widening your horizons, and increasing social skills, among other things. In this guide, I will discuss the travel document number.

However, if you intend to go overseas, you need to be well-versed in your travel papers. This is especially true for foreign travel, where you can obtain unique experiences that you wouldn’t be able to have in your own country.

What is Travel Document Number?

A travel document number is a group of numbers found on the official document used for travel that helps to identify each traveling. For example, this number appears on passports, visas, and other documents.

There are so many places globally to visit with families and small children that the options are limitless.

Types of Travel Documents

Travel documents come in different shapes, characters, and sizes. Below is a list of the most famous documents.

The passport is probably the most critical and well-known valid travel document. You can apply for a passport in your country of birth. This document allows you to be identified for travel purposes. Let’s see why this is so important.

Why is your Passport Necessary?

Passports are like keys. If you don’t have one, you won’t have access to international travel. You will need it when you go through customs and immigration in your home country, and you will also need it again when you want to enter your destination country.

Most commonly, you must obtain a visa before going to another country. You must have a passport to obtain a visa. Therefore, you must bring your passport with you when you go for visa interviews. Otherwise, you will not be eligible, and you can’t travel or being a visitor.

Some passports have more “power” than others. The Henley passport index helps explain this point. For example, a Japanese passport allows entry to 191 countries without a visa. While an Iraqi passport only allows entry to 28 countries without a visa. A passport can help you enter a country, but remember to consider the length of your stay without a visa, as it varies from country to country. If you do not follow these regulations while traveling abroad, you run the risk of being deported.

How to Get a Passport?

It depends on the country where you are applying for your passport. First, you must be eligible for one. Only citizens of a specific country can get a passport (in most cases). In your country of birth, you must apply for a passport from the appropriate government agency.

Travel Document Number vs. Passport Document Number

The difference is that a Passport is an official document that identifies the traveler, their nationality, and the necessary authorization to travel. In contrast, a Travel Document is a temporary document issued in place of a Passport, particularly when the passport has expired or the person has applied for but not yet received one.

A passport is a document the government or statutory authority of the traveler’s origin nation provides you, stating the traveler’s proof of citizenship.

Comparison chart

Passport and Travel Document Numbers

At the very least, individuals must carry an officially approved photo identity card from their national government when traveling. For example, in the United States, most people carry their state driver’s license with them everywhere they go (even out for a job). In most other countries, a photo identity card is sufficient.

Different travel documents are necessary depending on where you live and where you intend to travel. Therefore, each document is assigned a different travel document number, i-539, or a travel document number i-94 as examples.

It is strongly recommended that you make photocopies of your separate travel papers with a clear view of the natural travel document numbers while going overseas. Having duplicates of your papers on hand may save you time, money, and stress in the event of an emergency or if your documents are lost or stolen.

Border guards, immigration law authorities, and airport authorities can use your unique travel document number to swiftly and readily identify travelers for numerous purposes. These numbers are also required while filling out formal government documentation.

Passports (or I.D. Cards)

The document number of a passport or I.D. card can be located on the front of the card or on the same page as the person’s government-issued color photo. When a number is granted to an individual, it is registered with the local and federal governments. The numbers on passports and I.D. cards are usually a combination of numbers and letters.

In many circumstances, a visa is necessary for travel overseas. In this instance, you’ll discover the visa’s unique number on the bottom of the document when it’s provided to you (typically on the right side). These usually consist of seven or more numbers, with a letter thrown in for good measure.

Green Cards

Green card numbers can be as long as 13 digits and are sometimes referred to as “receipt numbers.” Individuals are identified for immigration reasons using these papers and their associated numbers. This number is frequently displayed on the back of the residency card.

Returning to the United States with a Travel Document

In the event of an emergency, and before leaving the United States, you should know what documentation you’ll need to rejoin the country, as well as whether or not your departure would influence your immigration benefits application(s).

As a general rule, any individual who is not a U.S. citizen or a non-citizen U.S. national who seeks admission to the United States from a country other than the United States is subject to immigration review. Therefore, even if you hold a Green Card and have been approved as a permanent resident, you will be subject to an immigration official’s scrutiny.

If you are in the process of altering your status, traveling outside of the United States might have profound implications (applying for a Green Card), In general, if you apply for immigrant status (a Green Card) and leave the country without the proper papers (i.e., advance parole), you may be declared inadmissible upon your return. As a consequence, you may be judged to have abandoned your application.

Traveling abroad while awaiting your green card

Immigrants may travel overseas while waiting for their Green Card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card, according to USCIS (the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services). However, before flying outside of the United States, the candidate must complete the application and Green Card interview procedure. Additionally, anyone awaiting a Green Card and any immigrants planning to go outside of the United States must get an Advance Parole to re-enter the nation following their trip.

It’s also worth noting that traveling worldwide while waiting for your Green Card isn’t required. Try to avoid it or postpone it until you get your Green Card. Advance parole, sometimes known as a re-entry permit, does not ensure that you will be allowed to return to the United States. It will be up to U.S. Customs and Border Patrol to decide whether or not to allow a foreign individual to re-enter the country.

On the reverse of the Advance Parole travel paperwork, it states that re-entry is not assured. While the chances of being denied re-entry are slim, the fact that it is possible should urge you to practice prudence.

Refugee Travel Document

Suppose you want to return to the United States lawfully after visiting overseas. In that case, you may need to carry several forms of travel papers depending on your immigration status. This includes lawful permanent residents. Moreover, if you have an application for an immigration benefit pending, therefore, you should apply for these documents before leaving the United States in some situations.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) produce four types of travel documents: Advance parole, a refugee travel document, a re-entry permit, and documents for a carrier are all options.

People having refugee or asylum status and lawful permanent residents who got their Green Cards based on their refugee or asylum status are issued refugee travel cards by USCIS.

If you want to return to the United States, you’ll need a refugee travel document.

• Having refugee or asylee status but not being a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder); or
• Are you a refugee or derivative asylee?

You can re-enter the United States if you do not get a refugee travel document before leaving the country, or you may be placed in removal proceedings before an immigration court.

Is there any difference between a Travel Document and a Passport?

The primary distinction between a passport and a visa is that a passport is provided to inhabitants of foreign countries’ travel and identification. So, what is the beneficiary’s travel document number?

The purpose of a passport is to prove one’s citizenship. When going outside of your nation, it is utilized to re-enter your home nation.

• Your portrait, name, birth date, gender, and physical traits are included in your passport.
• Some nations need a passport for re-entry for U.S. citizens. Other nations may need you to obtain a visa to enter. Before traveling, check to see if a country-specific visa* is necessary.
• Diplomats and government officials are issued passports that differ from those issued to civilian passengers.

A visa is an endorsement put within a passport that allows the formal holder to enter, depart, or stay in a country for a certain length of time.

• Tourist, student, work, and transit visas are the most popular visa kinds.
• A visa may be valid for a single or numerous visits, depending on where you are visiting.
• Some visas need an application to be submitted before entering the country, while others are given upon arrival.
• Before applying for a visa, several nations demand an interview or medical check.

Difference between a Passport and a Travel Document

A passport is just one of many different forms of travel documentation available. A travel document does not always have to be a passport. Documents issued to stateless individuals and refugees are examples of other travel documents (which look and function like a regular passport). In addition, temporary papers are granted to those who cannot get an ordinary passport from their home country to travel back home.

These may take the shape of a conventional passport or be as  essential as a printed paper . Many nations also allow their national I.D.s to be used as travel papers within their own country’s borders. These aren’t likely to resemble a passport, and they’re used for a lot more than just crossing foreign borders.

What is Travel Document Number: FAQs?

Is my passport number the same as my travel document number.

Your passport document number may be found in the upper right-hand corner of your identifying page. This is the page where your photo is displayed.

This number is unique to you and provides identifying information that both your home nation and the nation into which you’re crossing the border will need to authorize your request.

Can I travel while my green card is waiting to be approved while still on a valid F1-Visa?

Immigrants may travel overseas while waiting for their Green Card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card. Form I-131—Application for Travel Document—must be completed to acquire Advance Parole. You are authorized to leave the United States and re-enter in F-1 status as long as you produce the proper papers. You must always be accepted to the United States in F-1 status if you wish to re-enter the country and complete your full-time studies.

Where do I find my travel document number? Is it on my passport or ESTA document?

Your passport number is the number on the travel document. You could not file the FORM I-539 if you entered the United States using the ESTA/visa waiver program. You will also need to attend the U.S. consulate if you are applying for a J-1 visa.

What is the travel document number on an Indian passport?

Your passport number may be found in the upper right-hand corner of the page containing your photograph. Each passport contains a 9-digit passport number and a unique code. It’s also known as the document’s travel number.

Beautiful Places to Travel without a U.S. Passport | Where Can You Travel Without A Passport?

You can visit these beautiful places:

• Puerto Rico’s capital is San Juan.
• U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Croix
• California’s La Jolla.
• Oahu’s Kailua.
• American Samoa’s Pago Pago.
• Guam’s tropical Tumon Bay.
• Florida’s Key West.

Travel document number – first OR recent in the passport?

Passports are one of the most often utilized forms of identification in the United States for foreign travel. Citizens can use this card, which the U.S. Department of State issues, to rejoin the nation after they have left it. This kind of identification, often known as a passport book, allows U.S. citizens to travel by land, air, or sea to any place on the globe.

The passport is an identifying card in and of it and will be recognized as such in most places. The objective of this travel document is to demonstrate U.S. citizenship to be permitted to go abroad and return to the nation.

How Your Travel Document Number & Passport Work Together?

The number on a passport also serves as the number on a travel document. However, because the number on your card differs from the number on your passport booklets, your travel document number for your U.S. passport card will be different.

Where to Find your Travel Document Number on a Passport

You will find your travel document number on passport at the upper right-hand corner of the page with your photo as your passport number. Each passport includes a unique code and a 9-digit passport number. It’s also the travel number for this document.

Where to Find your Travel Document Number on a Visa?

The number of the visa is inscribed in red on the bottom right corner of the visa. The visa number is also the number on the travel document.

Is Travel Document Number the same as the passport number?

A travel document is a piece of identification provided by a country or an international treaty body that allows people to traverse government-controlled borders. The most frequent type of travel document is a passport.

What is a travel document number on an Indian passport?

The upper right-hand corner of the page with your photo displays your passport number. Each passport has a unique code and a 9-digit number. It also serves as the trip number for this particular document.

What is the travel document number on a U.S. visa?

Is a visa considered a travel document.

A foreign national citizen who wishes to visit the United States must first get a U.S. visa, which is then placed in the traveler’s passport, a travel document issued by the traveler’s home country. The happens with travel document number Canada or India.

What is a document number?

The number assigned to a document by its creators for retrieval purposes; may follow many systems, including chronological, topic area, or accession.

What’s a document I.D. number?

Any document that may be used to confirm a person’s identity is an identity document. You can find it as a piece of identification or I.D., or informally as papers. It’s commonly referred to as an identification card (I.C., ID card, and citizen card) or passport card if it’s issued in a tiny, conventional credit card size format.

What is considered a travel document?

Is a travel document a passport or visa.

A passport is the most popular travel document, and it generally grants the holder additional benefits such as visa-free travel to specific countries. However, the word is occasionally limited to documents that lack proof of nationality, such as refugee travel documents.

What are travel documents examples?

• A valid driver’s license, passport, and travel visa are required.
• All copies of identification documents are required.
• Details on the Travel Insurance Plan.
• Details about the Travel Itinerary.
• When traveling, you purchase event tickets.
• Travel Documents COVID-19

Who is eligible for a travel document?

To travel overseas and return to America, lawful residents, asylees, refugees, asylum seekers, and those seeking adjustment of status must apply for travel papers.

Bottom Line

Whether close to home or overseas, traveling nowadays necessitates carrying government-issued travel documentation of some form.

The most frequent of these papers are passports, visas, driver’s licenses, and photographic identity cards. Yet, unlike our social security numbers or bank card PINs; most of us have no idea what our travel document numbers imply.

Also, we hope you’ve enjoyed this travel document number vs. passport number and why it is important to know about the travel document number on the visa.

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🤔 What Is the Travel Document Number and Passport Document Number for Your Next Trip?

A travel document numbe r is a set of digits that assist each person in travel and is found on the official document used for the trip. This number can be found on passports, visas, and other similar forms. The travel document number on each document helps recognize you and decide your eligibility to travel overseas.

• U.S. Passport —Passports issued in the United States would have a combination of 6 to 9 characters. There are both letters and numbers.
• U.S. Visa —This is an eight-character number. Seven of the eight numbers are numbers, while one is a letter.
• Green Card- This 13-character document is another essential travel document. Three of them are letters, and ten are numbers.

🧐 What is the purpose of a travel document number?

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• Q. What is the beneficiary's travel document number?

Q. What is a passport number?

Q. how do i find my travel document number, q. why are travel documents important, q. what are travel document details, q. how do i get a travel document, 😇 conclusion, ✉ tell us in the comments your opinion about the travel document number..

A travel document number provides a unique identification for a particular travel document. It also makes it simpler for governments, airlines, and immigration authorities to confirm a traveler’s identification and keep tabs on their movements. This number helps in the differentiation of one travel document from another.

Types of Travel Documents

We should be aware of all the other documents that are required to travel if we want to go somewhere outside. Here is a short explanation of each type of travel document.

1. Passport

We all have passports, and if not, then we have to get them before traveling to another country because it is not possible to travel without a passport .

Your passport is the most important and well-known travel document you can have. You may apply for a passport in the country where you were born.

This main travel document assists in your identification for travel-related purposes. Let’s take a look at why it’s so valuable.

Passports work similarly to keys. Without it, you won’t be able to fly abroad. You’ll need it to go through customs and immigration in your home country, and you’ll need it again when you reach your intended country.

Obtaining a visa to enter a country is almost always necessary before going there. To be eligible for a visa, you must have a passport. If you do not bring your passport to your visa interview, you will not be approved.

Some passports have greater “authority” than others. The Henley Passport Index clarifies this in a very easy format.

A Japanese passport entitles the bearer to visa-free travel to 191 countries. A passport from Iraq, on the other hand, can only enter 28 countries without a visa.

Although a passport will help you enter a country, bear in mind that the amount of time you can stay on a visa-free entry varies by country. If you do not agree to these rules when traveling abroad, you will face a problem.

It all depends on which country’s passport you’re searching for. First and foremost, you must be eligible for one.

A passport is only available to citizens of a particular country. You must apply for a passport through your birth country’s relevant government department. In the United States, it is the Department of State .

Send your application after completing the necessary forms and providing or adding the required supporting documents.

Your passport will arrive soon. But what is a travel document number, and do you have one on your passport?

The upper right-hand corner of the page with your picture contains your passport number. Each passport has a unique code and a 9-digit passport number. It is also the travel document number or passport document number.

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In most cases, visitors to foreign countries need visas. Visas are provided by each country’s citizenship and immigration departments.

In the United States, it is known as USCIS. Since they have authority over this, they decide who is allowed to enter their country. But why is securing a visa so crucial?

The purpose of your visit to a country is decided by the visa. It defines the terms of your stay.

Conditions such as the duration of your allowed stay in the country, the activities you are permitted to participate in, and other aspects of your stay are addressed.

Likely, a passport won’t be enough to get you into any country you visit. Check to see if you’ll need a visa before you leave.

When entering the country, you will be asked to show your passport to the border officer. If your passport does not qualify for visa-free entry, the officer may ask for a visa to confirm your eligibility. Visas can be issued in the form of an official document.

Go to your home country’s nearest embassy or consulate of the country you want to visit. Apply for the visa you need. The intent of your visit will affect the type of visa you need.

Tourist visas are issued to tourists, while employment-related visas are issued to those who wish to work in the country.

Complete the appropriate paperwork, including supporting documents to prove your qualifications, pay the fees, attend and pass your interview, and your visa will be issued shortly. But what is a visa’s travel document number?

The visa number is normally written in a different color on your visa. The number of the visa is written in red on the bottom right corner of the visa. The visa number is also known as the travel document number.

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3. Green Card

A green card is provided to people who become permanent residents of the United States. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues a green card after an individual has proven their eligibility for an appropriate U.S. visa. Let’s take a look at why having a green card is so critical.

A Green Card is not a substitute for a passport. A Green Card allows you to become a permanent resident of the United States.

However, this does not imply that you are a resident. You’ll also need your birth country’s passport. However, when used in conjunction with your passport, a Green Card can help you travel more efficiently.

A Green Card is particularly necessary when crossing the US border because it proves your eligibility to enter the country to the immigration officer.

Green Cards will be given only to those who are qualified for citizenship. If you follow the proper guidelines, you should be able to confirm your eligibility.

You most likely got a visa while visiting the United States . They will issue a form  Type I-94 travel and departures record when you enter the United States.

All of these immigration-related documents assist in the advancement of your eligibility case. Several factors go into obtaining a Green Card. You choose the one that best suits your needs.

Prove your qualifications, follow the correct guidelines, and wait for a visa to become available, and you’ll have your Green Card in no time.

In this case, your Green Card number also serves as your travel document number. Your physical Green Card has it written on the backside.

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The cost of travel documents varies around the world. For the time being, we’ll only focus on the costs of US travel papers.

• Passport of the United States of America: The cost of a passport is as per the type of passport you desire. The most affordable adult passport costs $110, while the most affordable minor passport costs $80. A passport fee will be approximately $35 per application (if applicable).
• Visas for the United States: Nonimmigrant visas cost $160 on average. Since various types of paperwork and processing are needed for different types of visas, the costs vary. An H1B visa fee, for example, would not even go to the visa recipient. The cost must be covered by the beneficiary’s employer in the United States.
• Green Card for the United States: A Green Card in the United States costs $1,225 for adults and $750 for children aged 13 and under. The $85 biometric fee is normally included in this.

The government or issuing authority of the nation where the travel document was issued typically assigns numbers to documents. To make sure that each number is unique and cannot be repeated, different numbering systems and algorithms are typically used for giving travel document numbers.

Depending on the issuing authority and the kind of travel document, the format of a travel document number may change. Alphanumeric characters, such as letters and numbers, and barcodes are examples of typical formats. A travel document number’s length can also vary, however, it normally falls between 8 and 10 characters.

Governments, airlines, and immigration agencies use a travel document number to confirm a traveler’s identification and track their activities. This data can be utilized for several things, such as border security, immigration enforcement, and tracking traveler movements for law enforcement and security.

Typically, your passport’s front or back cover, as well as the visa or identity card you were issued, will all have your travel document number. If you are unsure of where your travel document number is, you can speak with the issuing agency or check the additional documents as well.

🙋🏻‍♀️ FAQs About Travel Document Number

People have a lot of questions about travel document numbers some of the commonly asked questions are answered below.

A. A travel document is a form of identification provided by a country or a foreign treaty body that helps people cross government-controlled borders. The most popular form of travel document is a passport.

A. Three types of travel documents are as below 1. Passport 2. Visa 3. Green Card

A. Is my passport number the same as the number on my travel document? Yes, the number on a passport often serves as the number on a travel document. However, since the number on your card varies from the number on your passport booklet, the travel document number on your US passport card would be different.

A. The upper right-hand corner of the page with your picture contains your passport number. Each passport has a unique code and a 9-digit passport number. It’s also known as the documents’ travel number.

A. Your passport number can be found under the word passport number in the top right corner of your passport.

A. A resident of a foreign country who wishes to visit the United States must first obtain a U.S. visa, which is then put in the traveler’s passport, which is a travel document issued by the traveler’s home country.

Q. What is the beneficiary’s travel document number?

A. The beneficiary’s travel document number serves as a special identification number for monitoring the status of a particular travel document. Both the relevant visa application form and the travel document itself contain this number. When submitting a visa application or other relevant paperwork, it is crucial to include this information.

A. A passport number is a unique alphanumeric code assigned to an individual’s passport. It serves as a crucial identifier for international travel.

A. The travel document number, often referred to as the passport number, can be found on the personal information page of your passport, typically near the top of the page.

A. Travel documents, like passports, are essential for international travel as they verify your identity and citizenship, granting you entry to foreign countries.

A. Yes, a travel document commonly refers to a passport, as it is the primary identification and travel document used internationally.

A. Travel document details include information found in your passport, such as your name, passport number, date of issue, expiration date, and the issuing authority.

A. To obtain a travel document, you must apply for a passport through your country’s passport-issuing authority, typically a government agency responsible for travel documentation. The specific process varies by country.

Your trip overseas seems like it was a lot of fun. You’ve packed your bags and are ready to depart. You’re also much more ready now that you understand the significance of each travel document’s travel document number.

Always remember to have those important documents with you everywhere you go. We hope you have a wonderful time on your trip.

Also, don’t forget to book your personalized holiday package with  Fiery Trippers . Let us make your vacation a romantic as well as a dreamy getaway.

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What Is A Travel Document Number? Everything You Should Know

Want to know about your passport travel number or visa travel number? Here’s a complete information guide for all you need to know about travel document numbers! 

International travel with their family is a desire of most travelers. Glorious times, memories that last up to a decade or lifetime, and having unforgettable experiences that you sometimes miss in your home country. 

However, before you pack your luggage and rush to the airport for your awaited international journey , there are certainly few must-know things that you should have sound knowledge about.

To help you settle some nerves, I will tell you everything about travel document numbers and how you can find them in your travel documents?

So, without wasting more time. Let’s kick in!!

Page Contents

What is a Travel Document Number?

Every country has its own set of rules or, to be more specific, some documents they provide to each citizen of their land to identify themselves. These documents contain various crucial coded information, such as travel document numbers. 

These numbers are a set of digits that helps in the process of authorization by recognizing each individual who is traveling. Travel document numbers are generally posited on the top-right corner of any documents like passports and visas . It is the validation of your eligibility to travel abroad. In simple words, they are a group of numbers that certifies that the individual travels abroad. 

If you have a U.S. passport, the travel number mentioned refers to the nine-digit code at the top-right corner of your passport info page. The first two numbers determine your location.

Not only passports that possess numbers. The visa you’ve been issued by the country you are traveling to also has travel numbers. Any person who wants to travel outside of their native country should show this travel document number.  

Types of Travel Documents

Generally, travel documents come in multiple types that are openly accepted as identification proof at different places.

1. Passport

Passport is one of the most common types of travel documents issued by the U.S. Department of State as identity proof for any international travel. This document allows U.S. citizens to travel via air, land, or sea to visit their desired destination worldwide. Passport is so crucial that you can’t access international travel if you don’t have it issued. You can find your full name, date of birth, date of issue, location of the problem, gender, nationality, and other important information like passport number. Passports can be interpreted as keys to your international travel because they can help you unlock the country you want to visit. If this key is lost, the doors for your international travel may be locked until you acquire a new one. Although it assists you in entering the country, it doesn’t guarantee your stay. The span of your visit is entirely dependent on the type of visa you have. It would help if you had a visa issued under your name to even travel to that country. You must have a passport if you want to qualify for a visa. 

The U.S. Passport numbers are generally between six to nine characters, which includes both numbers and alphabets. They are present in the top-right corner of the passport bio page.

The numbers and letters of your passport number hold important clues about your identity. For instance, the first two numbers of your passport numbers determine the location from where you’d issued the passport. 

2. Visa(Visitors Internationally Stay Allowance)

Visa is a small piece of paper that is attached to your passport. Visa can be seen as a permission grant for international travelers non-citizens to visit, enter or transit our country. Visas are issued by consular officials or government bodies, specifically each country’s citizenship, and immigration department (USCIS is the department that holds the jurisdiction over this matter in the U.S.). 

The U.S Visa contains eight digits of numbers, and sometimes there are seven numbers and one alphabet. Visa is helpful regarding how many visitors can enter any country, how extended their stay can be, and the conditions for their visit. One of the best benefits is the permission to get their residence or work, depending on the type of visa. Visa number is one of the easiest to find out of all travel documents. Usually, Visa numbers are featured on the bottom right corner of the visa document. The Visa number is generally highlighted with red ink over the black text to stand out from the rest of the information in the visa. 

3. I-94 Travel Document Number or Green Card

Individual who becomes a permanent residence gets a Green Card from U.S. governing body(USCIS). A green card is not a replacement for a passport. You can be a permanent resident in the U.S. by owning a green card, but that doesn’t declare you as a citizen of the United States. You will still need a passport from your birth country. This Green Card can only be acquired after the individual proves their eligibility with the help of a U.S. visa. Green Card number is also known as “Receipt Number.” 

This green card number usually contains 13 characters in the U.S. (with three letters and ten alphabets). Most of the countries have their green card number printed on the back of PR cards. So, a green card can prove helpful if you use it along with your passport for travel convenience. 

4. Passport Card

A passport card is an alternative to your regular U.S. passport. They are similar to the sizes of any driver’s license or credit card. They came into action in 2008. Passport cards are used to permit citizens to cross the borders of Mexico, Bermuda, Canada, and the Caribbean. These cards are the most cost-effective option for someone who is traveling for any short journey. These cards are associated with and issued by the Department Of State. 

One of the benefits of passport cards is convenience because they fit in your wallet; passport cards are less expensive concerning passport books.

But, with this said, I will reckon you that passport cards are only valid to cross neighboring land and sea borders. They can’t even be used to acquire a travel visa.

Passport cards are helpful for people who occasionally travel across the Mexican or Canadian border, children who are not eligible to get a driver’s license, or any other identification card.

How To Find Your Travel Document Number?

1. U.S. Passport Number:- U.S. Passport number is a combination of 6-9 characters that includes alphabets and numbers arranged in a coded manner. The U.S. Passport number is generally featured in the top-right section of the holder’s info page. The first two numbers signify the location from where the passport was issued. 

If you issued your passport from Washington, then the first two numbers will be “01”. If you have acquired your access from New Hampshire, these two numbers would be “20”. Emergency passports are generally granted for short travel, typically start with the “Z” or digit “70”

2. U.S. Visa Number:- U.S. visa numbers are highlighted by red ink over the black text used in the rest of the document, enough to strike your eyes. Some visas will start with an alphabet which is followed by seven numbers. U.S. Visas display the number in the bottom-right corner of the front page of the Card.

3. Green Card:- The travel number can be located by observing a sequence of three letters. Moving in the right direction from there will help us get all the remaining ten characters as numbers.

How To Acquire a Travel Document?

The process of acquiring any travel document you need for your international travel will depend on some specific functions, depending on which official document you are trying to achieve. The approval of these documents generally takes an ample amount of time to be ready to use. 

Average Processing Times Of Various Travel Documents:

U.S. Passport Book – 1 to 2 months (6 to 8 weeks)

U.S. Passport Card – 1 to 2 months (6 to 8 weeks)

U.S. Visa – 1 to 2 weeks (7 to 10 days) 

Green Card – 6 to 7 months

• U.S. Passport Card:- Getting a U.S Passport card requires you to apply. Along with this application, you’re required to provide evidence of citizenship that can be done by sharing any government-issued ID card or birth certificate. Before further proceedings, the issuing faculty will take a photo of you and collect a reasonable sum of money.  
• U.S. Passport Book:- The process of acquiring an entire passport book is similar to a passport card. The passport book is expensive, of course, because it broadens your sphere for travel, allowing you to travel anywhere in the world via air, land, and sea. In contrast, a passport card only permits travel to nearby surrounding areas. The final expenditure in a passport book is more than that spent on getting a passport card.
• U.S. Visa:- The process begins with you visiting the U.S. Embassy location of your country. You will have to fill a form named “DS-160” and send it online. Application for a visa also requires identification documents like a birth certificate. After all these processes, you will be asked to explain your intention to travel to the United States and how long you will spend there? After submitting the DS-160 form, you will be asked for some extra issuance fee while the application fee is compulsory. There will be an interview process and document completion. All the applications under the age group of 14-79 will be called for an interview as a part of the screening process in the local U.S. Embassy.  
• Green Card:- If you are an eligible candidate for the Green Card, you will be required to fill up a Form I-485 application which can be done quickly online. Along with this form, supporting documents, as well as associated fees, must be submitted. There will be a scheduled interview process similar to that of a visa. 

Travel Document Number FAQ’s

Q1. Do all travel documents have the same travel document number?

Ans.- No, all travel documents can never have the same travel number. Each travel document has its specific feature and number of characters. For instance, a Passport Card number has nine characters whereas, a Visa number has eight characters. 

Q2. How much do travel documents cost?

Ans.-  Different travel documents differ in their cost across the globe. 

The cheapest adult passport will be around $110. The most affordable minor passport will cost only $80. Passport application execution will take $35.

The immigrant visa will cost you $160. 

Travel Document Number is a piece of very crucial information. It’s the passport travel number that verifies the authenticity of the passport. Always be aware that each document you are having right now has different numbers, and you should consider a good time to review and understand them. Familiarizing yourself with the practice can help you recover lost or damaged documentation. 

Travel document numbers aren’t that ordinary as we think of them. They help the immigration authorities to pull available information about you and simultaneously also helping the customs department tracking down your movements during your stay in their country.

Enjoy your trip with all this much-needed information beforehand.

Hi, I'm Bhavesh Bhati thanks for visiting my blog! I've been traveling and exploring epic locations around the world for the last four years. I'm always looking for real adventures like treks, waterfalls, and Offroading!

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• Travel Tips
• Accessories

What is Passport Document Number And Travel Document Number?

Greetings friends,

If you are planning an international trip and confused about the all-important Passport document number, then this article is for you.

Travel excites all of us a lot, and if we travel to another country, this excitement increases even more. In order not to spoil our fun at all, it is important that we know all the documents used in the journey properly.

Otherwise, there will be a lot of problems when clearing customs and immigration from across the border, which will certainly help settle some nerves.

We will only assist with the main things, such as the travel document number and important documents required for the journey. These types of documents are an important part of your journey. Without it, you will not be allowed to cross any border.

Table of Contents

What Is A Travel Document Number?

A travel document number is a set of digits that assist each person in the journey and is found on the official document used for travel. This number can be found on passports, visas and other similar forms.

Travel documents are very important. The travel document number on each document helps to identify you and decide your eligibility to travel abroad.

US Passport:- Passports issued in the United States will have a combination of 6 to 9 characters. There are both letters and numbers.

US Visa:- This is an eight-character number. Of the eight numbers, seven are digits, while one is letter.

Green Card:- This 13-character document is another essential travel document. Three of them are letters, and ten are numbers.

Type Of Travel Documents

We must be aware of all the other documents which are required to be carried on the trip if we want to go out somewhere then all these documents are necessary. Below is a brief description of each type of travel document.

Passport :-

We all have passport s, and if not we have to get them done before traveling to another country because traveling without a passport is not possible.

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Your passport is the most important and famous travel document you have. You can apply for a passport in the country where you were born.

This key travel document helps identify you for travel related purposes. Let’s see why it is so valuable.

Why Your Passport is Important?

Passport works just like keys. Without this you will not be able to go abroad. You will need it to pass through Customs and Immigration in your country, and you will need it again to reach your desired county.

Obtaining a visa to enter a country is almost always necessary before going there. To be eligible for a visa, you must have a passport. If you do not bring your passport to your visa interview, you will not be accepted.

Some passports have more “authority” than others. The Henley Passport Index explains this in a very easy format. A Japanese passport entitles the holder to visa-free travel to 191 countries. Iraq passport, on the other hand, can only enter 28 countries without a visa.

Although a passport will help you enter a country, keep in mind that how long you can stay on visa-free entry varies by country. If you do not agree to these rules while traveling abroad, then you will face problem.

How To Get A Passport?

It all depends on which country’s passport you are looking for. First and foremost, you must be eligible for one. Passport is available only to the people of a particular country. You have to apply for a passport in the relevant government department of your country of birth. In the United States, it is the Department of State.

Submit your application after completing the required forms and providing or adding the required supporting documents. Your passport will arrive soon. But what is a travel document number, and do you have one on your passport?

Where To Find Your Travel Document Number On A Passport?

In the upper right corner of the page containing your picture is your passport number. Each passport has a unique code and a 9 digit passport number. It is also travel document number or passport document number.

In most cases, visitors from foreign countries require a visa. Visas are granted in the United States by each country’s Department of Citizenship and Immigration, known as USCIS.

Since they have a right over it, they decide who is allowed to enter their country. But why is it so important to get a visa?

Why Your Visa Is Important?

The purpose of your visit to a country is decided by the visa. It defines the conditions of your stay.

The length of your permitted stay in the country, the activities you are allowed to participate in, and other aspects of your stay are taken into account.

It is likely that a passport will not be sufficient to visit any country you visit. Check to see if you need a visa before you leave.

When entering another country you will be asked to show your passport to the border officer. If your passport does not qualify for visa-free entry, the officer may ask for a visa to confirm your eligibility. Visa can be issued as an official document.

How to Get a Visa?

You visit the nearest embassy of your country or the consulate of the country you wish to visit. Apply for the visa you need. Your travel intention will affect the type of visa you need.

• Bray JD, Ilona (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 320 Pages - 08/30/2022 (Publication Date) - NOLO (Publisher)

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Tourist visas are issued to tourists, while employment visas are issued to those who wish to work in the country.

Complete the appropriate paperwork, include supporting documents to prove your eligibility, pay the fee, attend and pass the interview, and your visa will be issued shortly. But what is the travel document number of the visa?

Where to Find your Travel Document Number on a Visa?

The visa number is normally written in a different color on your visa. The number of the visa is written in red on the bottom right corner of the visa. The visa number is also known as the travel document number .

Green Card :-

A green card is provided to people who become permanent residents of the United States. United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) by an individual in the appropriate U.S. Issues a green card after proving its eligibility for Visa. Let’s see why having a green card is so important.

• Bray J.D., Ilona (Author)
• 272 Pages - 07/26/2022 (Publication Date) - NOLO (Publisher)

Why Your Green Card is Important?

Green card is not a substitute for passport. A green card allows you to become a permanent resident of the United States.

However, this does not mean that you are a resident. You will also need the passport of your country of birth. However, when used with your passport, a green card can help you travel more efficiently.

A green card is especially necessary when crossing a US border because it proves your eligibility to enter the country to the immigration officer.

How to Get a Green Card?

Green card will be given only to those who will be eligible for citizenship. If you follow the proper guidelines, you should be able to confirm your eligibility.

Most likely you will get a visa when visiting the United States. They will issue Form Type I-94 Travel and Departure Records when you enter the United States.

All of these immigration-related documents help you advance your eligibility case. There are many factors involved in getting a green card. You choose the one that best suits your needs. Prove your eligibility, follow the right guidelines, and wait for Visa to become available, and you’ll have your green card in no time.

Where to Find your Travel Document Number on a Green Card?

In this case, your Green Card number also serves as your travel document number. Your physical Green Card has it written on the backside.

FAQs About Travel Document Number

Is a travel document the same as a passport.

A travel document is a form of identification provided by a country or a foreign treaty body that helps people to cross government-controlled borders. The most popular form of the travel document is a passport.

What Are The 3 Types Of Travel Documents?

Three types of travel documents are as per below 1. Passport 2. Visa 3.Green Card

Travel Document Number Vs Passport Document Number

Is my passport number the same as the number on my travel document? Yes, the number on a passport often serves as the number on a travel document. However, since the number on your card varies from the number on your passport booklet, the travel document number on your US passport card would be different.

What Is Travel Document Number On Indian Passport?

The upper right-hand corner of the page with your picture contains your passport number. Each passport has a unique code and a 9-digit passport number. It’s also known as documents’ travel number.

How Much Do Travel Documents Cost?

The cost of travel documents varies around the world. For the time being, we’ll only focus on the costs of US travel papers.

Passport of the United States of America The cost of a passport is as per the type of passport you desire. The most affordable adult passport costs $110, while the most affordable minor passport costs $80. A passport fee will be approx $35 per application (if applicable).

Visas for the United States Nonimmigrant visas cost $160 on average. Since various types of paperwork and/or processing are needed for different types of visas, the costs vary. An H1B visa fee, for example, would not even go to the visa recipient. The cost must be covered by the beneficiary’s employer in the United States.

Green Card for the United States A Green Card in the United States costs $1,225 for adults and $750 for children aged 13 and under. The $85 biometric fee is normally included in this.

What Is Passport Document Number?

Your passport number can be found under the word passport number in the top right corner of your passport.

Is A Visa A Travel Document?

A resident of a foreign country who wishes to visit the United States must first obtain a U.S. visa, which is then put in the traveler’s passport, which is a travel document issued by the traveler’s home country.

Your trip overseas seems like it was a lot of fun. You’ve packed your bags and are ready to depart. You’re also much more ready now that you understand the significance of each travel document’s travel document number.

Always remember to have those important documents with you everywhere you go. We hope you have a wonderful time on your trip.

Last update on 2023-10-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

How to Fill DS-160 Form for US Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide (with screenshots)

Updated: September 21, 2023

The first step in the US visa application process is to fill DS-160 form online. It’s a lengthy form with several pages and sections, so it can take you a few days to complete.

Before you start the application, go through my comprehensive guide on DS-160 form to understand the technical requirements and the documents needed for filling out the application.

Then, follow along this step-by-step guide to complete your DS-160 form. There are screenshots and instructions to guide you. For each question, there is a comment explaining what exactly needs to be entered.

IMPORTANT The result of your US visa for the most part depends on the information you fill in your DS-160. Pay careful attention to the information you enter in your DS-160. It must be accurate, and honest and must match with what you say during the visa interview. DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT lie in your DS-160. This can lead to visa denial, visa ban, or permanent blacklist.

Table of Contents

Steps to fill ds-160 form, 01. getting started.

To start your DS-160 form, head over to the US Department of State’s Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160) page.

• Select a location where you will be applying for this visa [ Instruction: Select the country where you intend to attend your US visa interview]
• Enter the code as shown [ Instruction : Enter the code shown in the captcha in this field. This is to make sure you are a real human and not a bot]
• This visa application will ask you to upload a digital photo of yourself [ Instruction : If you already have a digital photo for your visa application, click on “Test Photo” to check if your photo meets the specifications. If you don’t have a photo and want to know the photo requirements, click on “Photo Standard Guide”]

NOTE The question “This visa application will ask you to upload a digital photo of yourself” is shown only for certain countries such as Malaysia, the Philippines, etc. If you choose a country such as India, Mexico, etc., this question will not be shown.

After you have entered the above data, you will see 2 buttons –

• START AN APPLICATION [ Instruction : Click this button if you are starting a new application]
• RETRIEVE AN APPLICATION [ Instruction : Click this button if you are retrieving a previously saved application]

Let’s look into these options in detail.

START AN APPLICATION

Click the “START AN APPLICATION” button when you are starting a new DS-160 application. This will create an Application ID, which you must print or make a note of. You will need the Application ID to retrieve your saved DS-160 application.

RETRIEVE AN APPLICATION

Your session times out if you leave your DS-160 form open for too long. If that happens, you can come back to your saved application (saved till the last section) using this option.

You might also need time to gather the information needed to fill DS-160 form. In that case, you can save and come back to your saved application using this option. You would need your DS-160 Application ID to retrieve the saved application.

After you enter the above data and click on “START AN APPLICATION”, you will see the “Application Information” Screen. Your “Application ID” will be displayed here. Print this page. Or take a screenshot or make a note of the DS-160 Application ID. You will need your Application ID to retrieve your saved DS-160 application.

• I AGREE [ Instruction: Check the “I AGREE” box for Computer Fraud and Abuse Act]
• Security Question [ Instruction : Select a security question from the list]
• Answer [ Instruction : Enter the answer for your security question]

IMPORTANT Make a note of your “Application ID”, “Security Question” and “Answer”. The “Security Question and Answer” along with the “Application ID”, “Surname” and “Birth Year” are REQUIRED to retrieve your saved DS-160 visa application. If you forget any of this information, you will not be able to retrieve your saved application. You will have to start over again with a new DS-160 application.

NOTE You will have 30 days to complete a partially saved DS-160 application. These 30 days are calculated from the last time you edited your application. If you do not complete and submit your DS-160 form within 30 days, your application will be deleted and you will have to start over again.

02. Personal

Subsection: personal 1.

• Surnames [ Instruction : Enter your surname from your passport. If you have any accents or special characters in your surname name, enter WITHOUT accents or special characters]
• Given Names [ Instruction : Enter your given name from your passport. If you have any accents or special characters in your given names, enter WITHOUT accents or special characters ]
• Full Name in Native Alphabet [ Instruction : Enter ONLY IF you have accents or non-Latin characters in your name or know how to write your name in your native language. Otherwise, simply check “Does Not Apply/Technology Not Available”. For detailed instructions, check out this article on how to fill Full Name in Native Alphabet ]
• Have you ever used other names (i.e, maiden, religious, professional, alias, etc.)? [ Instruction : Select “Yes” if you have a maiden name, otherwise select “No”]
• Do you have a telecode that represents your name? [ Instruction : Select “Yes” only if you have a Chinese name, otherwise just select “No”. For detailed instructions, read this article on how to fill Telecode name in DS-160 ]
• Sex [ Instruction : Select “Male” or “Female”]
• [Dropdown Options]
• COMMON LAW MARRIAGE
• CIVIL UNION/DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP
• LEGALLY SEPARATED
• Date [ Instruction : Enter your date of birth]
• City [ Instruction : Enter the city where you were born]
• State/Province [ Instruction : Enter the state/province where you were born]
• Country/Region [ Instruction : Enter the country where you were born]

If you have accents or special characters in your name

The “Surnames” and “Given Names” fields DO NOT ALLOW accents or special characters. You must enter your name WITHOUT accents or special characters in the “Surnames” and “Given Names” fields. Use the “Full Name in Native Alphabet” field to enter your full name with accents and special characters.

If you have a middle name on your passport

If you have a middle name in your passport (ex: Philippines passport), you must add your middle name to your given name(s) and enter it in your DS-160 “Given Name”.

Example below.

In your current passport Surname: XXXX Given Names: YYYY ZZZZ Middle Name: AAAA

This is how you will fill in your DS-160 Surname: XXXX Given Names: YYYY ZZZZ AAAA

If your surname in the passport is “blank”

If your surname in the passport is “blank”, use the following format in your DS-160 form.

In your current passport Surname: Given Name: XXXX YYYY

This is how you will fill in your DS-160 Surname: XXXX YYYY Given Name: FNU

Your US visa will be issued with the following name Surname: XXXX YYYY Given Name: FNU

NOTE:  FNU means First Name Unknown.

IMPORTANT:  You must get your passport fixed as soon as you can. It can create all kinds of issues, not only for visa applications but also at the airports. If you move to a foreign country to study or work, you won’t be able to open a bank account, apply for a driving license, etc.

What if your surname or given name is too long

You may be able to enter your Surname and Given Name completely in DS-160 form. But in the US visa, the Surname and Given Name fields have a certain character limit and will be truncated if over the character limit.

Even though your name is truncated in your US visa, it will not pose any problems with US immigration. US border officials are all aware of this and will not ask you any questions. You may be asked by the airline staff if they are not familiar with US visa name character limit.

In your current passport Surname: XXXX Given Name: AAAABBBB CCCCDDDD YYYYZZZZ

This is how you will fill in your DS-160 Surname: XXXX Given Name: AAAABBBB CCCCDDDD YYYYZZZZ

Your US visa will be issued with the following name Surname: XXXX Given Name: AAAABBBB CCCCDDDD YYYY

Subsection: Personal 2

• Country/Region of Origin (Nationality) [ Instruction : Select your country of nationality ]
• Do you hold or have you held any nationality other than the one indicated above on nationality? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” if you have acquired a nationality other than your birth nationality]
• Are you a permanent resident of a country/region other than your country/region of origin (nationality) indicated above? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” if you have acquired permanent residence in a country other than your country of birth]
• National Identification Number [ Instruction : Enter your National Identification Number from your country. If you don’t know, check “Does Not Apply” | ]
• U.S. Social Security Number [ Instruction : Check “Does Not Apply”. Enter your US SSN if you have lived in the US before]
• U.S.Taxpayer ID Number [ Instruction : Check “Does Not Apply”. Enter your US TIN Number if you had/have one]

• FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL (A)
• TEMP. BUSINESS PLEASURE VISITOR (B)
• ALIEN IN TRANSIT (C)
• CNMI WORKER OR INVESTOR (CW/E2C)
• CREWMEMBER (D)
• TREATY TRADER OR INVESTOR (E)
• ACADEMIC OR LANGUAGE STUDENT (F)
• INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION REP./EMP. (G)
• TEMPORARY WORKER (H)
• FOREIGN MEDIA REPRESENTATIVE (I)
• EXCHANGE VISITOR (J)
• FIANCÉ(E) OR SPOUCE OF U.S. CITIZEN (K)
• INTRACOMPANY TRANSFEREE (L)
• VOCATIONAL/NON-ACADEMIC STUDENT (M)
• NATO STAFF (NATO)
• ALIEN WITH EXTRAORDINARY ABILITY (O)
• INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED ALIEN (P)
• CULTURAL EXCHANGE VISITOR (Q)
• RELIGIOUS WORKER (R)
• INFORMANT OR WITNESS (S)
• VICTIM OF TRAFFICKING (T)
• NAFTA PROFESSIONAL (TD/TN)
• VICTIM OF CRIMINAL ACTIVITY (U)
• PAROLE BENEFICIARY (PARCIS)
• Specify [ Instruction : Select “BUSINESS & TOURISM (TEMPORARY VISITOR) (B1/B2)”. If you have selected a different visa class, then select the appropriate option here]
• Intended Date of Arrival [ Instruction : Select the approximate date on which you intend to arrive in the US]
• Intended Length of Stay in the U.S. [ Instruction : Select the number of days you intend to spend in the US on this trip]
• Street Address (Line 1)
• Street Address (Line 2) *Optional
• Zip Code (if known)
• OTHER PERSON
• PRESENT EMPLOYER
• EMPLOYER IN THE U.S.
• OTHER COMPANY/ORGANIZATION

PRO TIP For “TEMP. BUSINESS PLEASURE VISITOR (B)”, you will have 3 options to choose from: B1 (Business), B2 (Tourism), and B1/B2 (Business and Tourism). I recommend selecting “B1/B2” even though your purpose might be strictly business or tourism. A US visa is issued for 10 years and you never know when you will need to visit the US for business or when for tourism. “B1/B2” will work for both purposes and will spare you from unnecessary questions at the port of entry.

NOTE Even if you have selected “B1” or “B2” as your choice, the US consulate might still issue “B1/B2”. In very rare cases, they issue a “B1” or a “B2”.

What if you plan to stay in a hotel when you travel to the US, instead of a friend/family/relative?

If you are planning to stay in a hotel, book a refundable or pay-at-check-in hotel . Use that address for the question “Address Where You Will Stay in the U.S.”. Cancel the booking after you receive your visa.

What if you have already booked your flight tickets for your US trip?

If you have already booked your flight and hotel, then you must select “Yes” to the question “Have you made specific travel plans”. You will see some specific questions for your trip. Enter the following information.

• Date of Arrival in the U.S. [ Instruction: Select your exact date of arrival in the US]
• Arrival Flight (if known) [ Instruction: Enter your arrival flight number. Leave it blank if you don’t know ]
• Arrival City [ Instruction: Enter the first city where you will arrive]
• Date of Departure from U.S. [ Instruction: Enter your exact date of departure from the US]
• Departure Flight (if known) [ Instruction: Enter your departure flight number. Leave it blank if you don’t know]
• Departure City [ Instruction: Enter the city where you will depart the US from]
• Provide the locations you plan to visit in the U.S. [ Instruction: Enter the list of cities or places you plan to visit as part of your US trip. If you have more than one city, use the “Add Another” button to add more]

06. Travel Companions

Persons traveling with you

• Are there other persons traveling with you? [ Instruction : Select “No” if you will be traveling by yourself. Select “Yes” if you will be traveling with family/friends and provide details]
• Are you traveling as part of a group or organization? [ Instruction : Select “No” if you will be traveling with family/friends. Select “Yes” only if you will be traveling with a group on an organized group tour]
• Surnames of Person Traveling With You [ Instruction : Enter the surname of the person (family member/relative/friend/etc.) traveling with you]
• Given Names of Person Traveling With You [ Instruction : Enter the given names of the person (family member/relative/friend/etc.) traveling with you]
• OTHER RELATIVE
• BUSINESS ASSOCIATE
• Add Another [ Instruction : Use this option if you have more than one person (family member/relative/friend/etc.) traveling with you]

07. Previous U.S. Travel

• Have you ever been in the U.S.? [ Instruction : Select “No” if you have NEVER been in the US. Select “Yes” if you have traveled to the US before and enter the below details]
• Date Arrived [ Instruction : Enter your previous date of arrival in the US]
• Length of Stay [ Instruction : Enter the number of days or months of your previous stay in the US]
• Add Another [ Instruction : Use this option if you have been in the US multiple times. You can enter up to 5 previous visits to the US]
• Do you or did you ever hold a U.S. Driver’s License? [ Instruction : Select “No” if you have not lived in the US before. If you have a US driver’s license, select “Yes” and enter your existing/expired US driver’s license details below]
• Driver’s License Number [ Instruction : Enter your US driver’s license number. If you don’t remember, just check “Do Not Know”]
• State of Driver’s License [ Instruction : Select the “State” that issued your driver’s license]
• Add Another [ Instruction : Use this option if you had/have more than one US driver’s license]
• Have you ever been issued a U.S. Visa? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” if you have been issued a U.S. visa before and enter your old visa details]
• Date Last Visa was Issued [ Instruction : Enter the date of issue of your previous US visa]
• Visa Number [ Instruction : Enter the visa number (printed in RED on your visa sticker) of your previous US visa]
• Are you applying for the same type of visa? [ Instruction : Select “Yes” if applying for the same visa type, ex: B1/B2. Otherwise, select “No”]
• Are you applying in the same country or location where the visa above was issued, and is this country or location your place of principal of residence? [ Instruction : Select “Yes” if applying in the same location as your previous US visa and is also your current country of residence. Otherwise, select “No”]
• Have you been ten-printed? [ Instruction : Select “Yes” if your fingerprints were captured (all 10 fingers) during the interview of your previous US visa. Otherwise, select “No”]
• Has your U.S. Visa ever been lost or stolen? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if any of your old US visas were lost or stolen]
• Has your U.S. Visa ever been cancelled or revoked? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if any of your old US visas were cancelled or revoked]
• (If answered “Yes” to the above question) Explain [ Instruction : Provide the details of your visa refusal or denial of entry]
• (If answered “Yes” to the above question) Explain [ Instruction : Provide the details of your old/existing I-140 such as the priority date and receipt number]

NOTE If you have been in the US before but do not remember the exact dates, you can look up your previous US travel history on the US Customs and Border Protection website. For calculating “Length of Stay”, you can use the Date and Time’s Days Calculator .

03. Address and Phone

Home Address

• Street Address (Line 1) [ Instruction : Enter your home address in the following fields]
• State/Province
• Postal Zone/Zip Code
• Country/Region

Mailing Address

• Is your Mailing Address the same as your Home Address? [ Instruction : Select “Yes” if your home and mailing addresses are the same. Otherwise, select “No” and enter your mailing address]
• Primary Phone Number [ Instruction : Enter your cell phone number where the consulate can reach you if needed]
• Secondary Phone Number [ Instruction : Enter your home phone number where the consulate can call you if your cell phone is not reachable. If you don’t have one, just check “Does Not Apply”]
• Work Phone Number [ Instruction : Enter your work phone number where the consulate can call you if your cell/home phones are not reachable. If you don’t have one, just check “Does Not Apply”]
• (If you have answered “Yes” to the above question) Additional Phone Number [ Instruction: Enter the additional phone number that you have used in the last five years. If you have more than one, click on the “Add Another” button to add more]
• Email Address
• Email Address [ Instruction : Enter your email address where the consulate can email you if needed]
• (If you have answered “Yes” to the above question) Additional Email Address [ Instruction : Enter the additional email address that you have used in the last five years. If you have more than one, click on the “Add Another” button to add more]

Social Media

• TENCENT WEIBO
• VKONTAKTE (VK)
• Social Media Identifier [ Instruction : Enter the username or handle of the social media platform]
• Add Another [ Instruction: If you use or used more than one social media platform, click the “Add Another” button to add more]
• Do you wish to provide information about your presence on any other websites or applications you have used within the last five years to create or share content (photos, videos, status updates, etc.)? [ Instruction: Select “Yes” if you use a social media platform that was not listed in the above question, ex: Tiktok. Otherwise, select “No”. Messaging services such as WhatsApp do not count as social media, so DO NOT enter such services here]
• Additional Social Media Platform [ Instruction: Enter the social media platform name, ex: Tiktok]
• Additional Social Media Handle [ Instruction: Enter the social media platform username or handle, ex: @myhandle]

04. Passport

• Passport/Travel Document Number [ Instruction : Enter your passport number]
• Passport Book Number [ Instruction : Just check “Does Not Apply”]
• Country/Authority that Issued Passport/Travel Document [ Instruction : Select your country of passport]
• City [ Instruction : Enter the place of issue from your passport. If you can’t find the place of issue on your passport, just enter the city where your passport was issued ]
• State/Province *If shown on passport [ Instruction : Enter state/province of issue from your passport. If the state/province of issue is not on your passport, leave this field blank]
• Country/Region [ Instruction : Select the country where your passport was issued]
• Issuance Date [ Instruction : Select the date of issue from your passport]
• Expiration Date [ Instruction : Select the date of expiration from your passport]
• Have you ever lost a passport or had one stolen? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if you have ever lost your passport or stolen]
• Passport/Travel Document Number [ Instruction : Enter the passport number of the passport that was lost or stolen]
• Country/Authority that Issued Passport/Travel Document [ Instruction : Enter the country of the passport that was lost or stolen]
• Explain [ Instruction: Explain how your passport was lost or stolen]
• Add Another [ Instruction: If you had multiple incidents of lost or stolen passports, click on the “Add Another” button to enter more]

08. U.S. Contact

Contact Person or Organization in the United States

• Surnames [ Instruction : Enter the surname of your contact person in the US]
• Given Names [ Instruction : Enter the given name of your contact person in the US]
• Organization Name [ Instruction : Enter the name of the organization you know or will be visiting in the US. If you will not be visiting any, you can enter your hotel name or just check “Do Not Know”]
• SCHOOL OFFICIAL
• U.S. Street Address (Line 1)
• U.S. Street Address (Line 2) *Optional
• Phone Number

NOTE For “Contact Person or Organization in the United States”, you would need to enter AT LEAST one, either a “Contact Person” or an “Organization”. If you don’t know anyone who can vouch for you, I recommend entering the hotel where you will be staying.

Subsection: Relatives

Father’s Full Name and Date of Birth

• Surnames [ Instruction : Enter your father’s surname. If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
• Given Names [ Instruction : Enter your father’s given name. If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
• Date of Birth [ Instruction : Enter your father’s date of birth. If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
• U.S. Citizen [ Instruction: Use this option if your father is a US citizen, meaning holding a US passport]
• U.S. LEGAL PERMANENT RESIDENT (LPR) [ Instruction: Use this option if your father holds a US Green card]
• NONIMMIGRANT [ Instruction: Use this option if your father is on a nonimmigrant visa such as B, H, L, F, J]
• OTHER/I DON’T KNOW [ Instruction: Use this option if you don’t know his status in the US]

Mother’s Full Name and Date of Birth

• Surnames [ Instruction : Enter your mother’s surname. If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
• Given Names [ Instruction : Enter your mother’s given name. If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
• Date of Birth [ Instruction : Enter your mother’s date of birth. If you don’t know, check “Do Not Know”]
• U.S. Citizen [ Instruction: Use this option if your mother is a US citizen, meaning holding a US passport]
• U.S. LEGAL PERMANENT RESIDENT (LPR) [ Instruction: Use this option if your mother holds a US Green card]
• NONIMMIGRANT [ Instruction: Use this option if your mother is on a nonimmigrant visa such as B, H, L, F, J]
• OTHER/I DON’T KNOW [ Instruction: Use this option if you don’t know her status in the US]
• (If you have answered “Yes” to the above question) Provide the following information:
• Surnames [ Instruction: Enter your immediate relative’s (spouse, son, daughter or sibling) surname]
• Given Names [ Instruction: Enter your immediate relative’s (spouse, son, daughter or sibling) given names ]
• FIANCÉ/FIANCÉÉ
• U.S. Citizen [ Instruction: Use this option if they are a US citizen, meaning holding a US passport]
• U.S. LEGAL PERMANENT RESIDENT (LPR) [ Instruction: Use this option if they hold US Green card]
• NONIMMIGRANT [ Instruction: Use this option if they are on a nonimmigrant visa such as B, H, L, F, J]
• OTHER/I DON’T KNOW [ Instruction: Use this option if you don’t know their status]
• Do you have any other relatives in the United States? [ Comment: Select “No”. Select “Yes” if you have any relatives such as grandparents, in-laws, uncles, aunts, cousins, etc. in the US and enter their details below]

NOTE For “Other Relatives”, select “Yes” only if you have relatives that you keep in touch with regularly and they know that you will be visiting the US soon.

Subsection: Spouse

Spouse’s Full Name and Date of Birth (include Maiden Name)

• Spouse’s Surnames [ Instruction : Enter your spouse’s surname]
• Spouse’s Given Names [ Instruction : Enter your spouse’s given name]
• Spouse’s Date of Birth [ Instruction : Select your spouse’s date of birth]
• Spouse’s Country/Region of Origin (Nationality) [ Instruction : Select your spouse’s country of nationality]
• City [ Instruction : Enter your spouse’s city of birth]
• Country/Region [ Instruction : Enter your spouse’s country of birth]
• SAME AS HOME ADDRESS
• SAME AS MAILING ADDRESS
• SAME AS U.S. CONTACT ADDRESS
• DO NOT KNOW
• OTHER (SPECIFY ADDRESS)

NOTE The “Spouse” section is only available if you have selected “MARRIED” as the “Marital Status” in “02. Personal” above.

10. Work / Education / Training

Subsection: present.

• AGRICULTURE
• ARTIST/PERFORMER
• COMMUNICATIONS
• COMPUTER SCIENCE
• CULINARY/FOOD SERVICES
• ENGINEERING
• LEGAL PROFESSION
• MEDICAL/HEALTH
• NATURAL SCIENCE
• NOT EMPLOYED
• PHYSICAL SCIENCES
• RELIGIOUS VACATION
• SOCIAL SERVICES
• Explain [ Instruction: This “Explain” box is shown only if you select “UNEMPLOYED” or “OTHER” for the above question. If you are unemployed, explain why you are unemployed. If you select “OTHER”, specify your occupation, such as Journalism, Marketing, etc.]
• Present Employer or School Name [ Instruction : Enter your current employer name (if employed) or university/college name (if student) or business name (if owns a business)]
• Start Date [ Instruction : Select the start date of your current job or school curriculum or business]
• Monthly Income in Local Currency (if employed) [ Instruction : Enter the monthly income you make from your current job or business. Check “Does Not Apply” if you are a student or retired]
• Briefly describe your duties: [ Instruction : Write a brief list of duties performed at your current employer or business]

Subsection: Previous

IMPORTANT Subsections “Previous” (previous work and education) and “Additional” (languages and travel history) are only asked for (1) all male applicants and (2) all applicants (male and female) from countries considered as questionable. Therefore, if you are a female applicant and you do not see these sections, it means you are not required to fill those sections. It’s normal, no need to worry.

• Were you previously employed? [ Instruction: Select “Yes” if you have a previous employer and enter the details below. Select “No” if your current job is your first job or you are a student]
• Employer Name
• Employer Street Address (Line1)
• Employer Street Address (Line 2) *Optional
• Supervisor’s Surname [ Instruction: If you don’t remember or know your supervisor back then, just check “Do Not Know”]
• Supervisor’s Given Names [ Instruction: If you don’t remember or know your supervisor back then, just check “Do Not Know” ]
• Employment Date From
• Employment Date To
• Briefly describe your duties:
• Add Another [ Instruction: If you have more than one previous employment, use this option to add more. You can add up to 2 previous employments]
• Have you attended any educational institutions at a secondary level or above? [ Instruction : Select “Yes” and enter your educational background below]
• Name of Institution
• Course of Study [ Instruction : Enter your course of study or degree]
• Date of Attendance From [ Instruction : Enter your university/school course start date]
• Date of Attendance To [ Instruction : Enter your university/school course end date]
• Add Another [ Instruction : Use this option to enter details if you have multiple degrees or a master’s degree]

NOTE Enter your educational background starting from the highest education to high school (or higher secondary).

Subsection: Additional

• Do you belong to a clan or tribe? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” if you belong to a recognized clan or tribe and enter the details]
• Language Name [ Instruction : Enter the language that you speak]
• Add Another [ Instruction : Use this option to add more languages that you speak]
• Country/Region [ Instruction : Enter the name of the country you have traveled to previously]
• Add Another [ Instruction : Use this option to add more countries that you have traveled]
• Have you belonged to, contributed to, or worked for any professional, social, or charitable organization? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if you are affiliated with a professional (IEEE, ACM, Bar Association, etc.) or charitable (Red Cross, MSF) group and enter the names of those organizations]
• Do you have any specialized skills or training, such as firearms, explosives, nuclear, biological, or chemical experience? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if you were trained in using firearms, etc]
• Have you ever served in the military? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if you have served/serving in the military]
• Have you ever served in, been a member of, or been involved with a paramilitary unit, vigilante unit, rebel group, guerrilla group, or insurgent organization? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if you have been involved in any of those groups and enter the details below]

Provide a List of Languages You Speak For the question “Provide a List of Languages You Speak”, enter all languages that you speak, even if you speak at a beginner level.

Provide a List of Countries/Regions Visited For the question “Provide a List of Countries/Regions Visited”, enter all countries you have traveled to so far including your country of residence (if it’s not your country of passport). Exclude the US (if you have traveled to the US before), your country of passport and any country that you have merely passed through on a layover/transit.

11. Security and Background

Subsection: part 1.

• Do you have a communicable disease of public health significance? (Communicable diseases of public significance include chancroid, gonorrhea, granuloma inguinale, infectious leprosy, lymphogranuloma venereum, infectious stage syphilis, active tuberculosis, and other diseases as determined by the Department of Health and Human Services.) [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if you have any of those diseases]
• Do you have a mental or physical disorder that poses or is likely to pose a threat to the safety or welfare of yourself or others? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if you have a mental or physical disorder]
• Are you or have you ever been a drug abuser or addict? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” only if you were a drug abuser or addict]

Subsection: Part 2

• Have you ever been arrested or convicted for any offense or crime, even though subject of a pardon, amnesty, or other similar action? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever violated, or engaged in a conspiracy to violate, any law relating to controlled substances? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Are you coming to the United States to engage in prostitution or unlawful commercialized vice or have you been engaged in prostitution or procuring prostitutes within the past 10 years? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever been involved in, or do you seek to engage in, money laundering? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever committed or conspired to commit a human trafficking offense in the United States or outside the United States? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you knowingly aided, abetted, assisted or colluded with an individual who has committed or conspired to commit a severe human trafficking offense in the United States or outside the United States? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Are you the spouse, son, or daughter of an individual who has committed or conspired to commit a human trafficking offense in the United States or outside the United States and have you within the last five years, knowingly benefited from the trafficking activities? [ Instruction : Select “No”]

Subsection: Part 3

• Do you seek to engage in espionage, sabotage, export control violations, or any other illegal activity while in the United States? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Do you seek to engage in terrorist activities while in the United States or have you ever engaged in terrorist activities? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever or do you intend to provide financial assistance or other support to terrorists or terrorist organizations? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Are you a member or representative of a terrorist organization? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Are you the spouse, son, or daughter of an individual who has engaged in terrorist activity, including providing financial assistance or other support to terrorists or terrorist organizations, in the last five years? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever ordered, incited, committed, assisted, or otherwise participated in genocide? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever committed, ordered, incited, assisted, or otherwise participated in torture? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you committed, ordered, incited, assisted, or otherwise participated in extrajudicial killings, political killings, or other acts of violence? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever engaged in the recruitment or the use of child soldiers? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you, while serving as a government official, been responsible for or directly carried out, at any time, particularly severe violations of religious freedom? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever been directly involved in the establishment or enforcement of population controls forcing a woman to undergo an abortion against her free choice or a man or a woman to undergo sterilization against his or her free will? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever been directly involved in the coercive transplantation of human organs or bodily tissue? [ Instruction : Select “No”]

Subsection: Part 4

• Have you ever sought to obtain or assist others to obtain a visa, entry into the United States, or any other United States immigration benefit by fraud or willful misrepresentation or other unlawful means? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever been removed or deported from any country? [ Instruction : Select “No”]

Subsection: Part 5

• Have you ever withheld custody of a U.S. citizen child outside the United States from a person granted legal custody by a U.S. court? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you voted in the United States in violation of any law or regulation? [ Instruction : Select “No”]
• Have you ever renounced United States citizenship for the purpose of avoiding taxation? [ Instruction : Select “No”]

This section may not be available if applying from certain countries such as India, Mexico, etc. In such countries, photos are typically captured along with fingerprints by the visa application center or the consulate on the day of the visa interview appointment.

Subsection: Upload Photo

In the “Upload Photo” section, upload a passport-size digital photo.

NOTE If you have uploaded and tested your photo in the “01. Getting Started” section, you will be taken directly to the “Confirm Photo” section.

NOTE You may sometimes see an “ Error: There was a missing or invalid parameter in the request ” while uploading the photo. If you see this error, try again after a few minutes. If it’s a weekend, try again on a weekday, especially during US working hours. This is a technical issue and nothing wrong with your photo. Their technical team will be notified by the system and they will fix it.

Subsection: Confirm Photo

In the “Confirm Photo” section, you will see a preview of the photo you have uploaded. If you are satisfied with your photo, click on “Next: REVIEW”. Otherwise, click on “Choose a Different Photo” to upload a different photo.

In this section, you will review all the data you have entered so far. You will click on each of the following 7 subsections to review for accuracy and any mistakes in the data you have entered.

Subsection: Personal/Address/Phone/Passport

Review the entered information in “Personal/Address/Phone/Passport”

• Personal Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in personal information, click on “Edit Personal Information” to fix the errors]
• Address and Phone Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in address and phone information, click on “Edit Address and Phone Information” to fix the errors]
• Passport/Travel Document Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in passport/travel document information, click on “Edit Passport/Travel Document Information” to fix the errors]

Subsection: Travel

Review the entered information in “Travel”

• Travel Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in travel information, click on “Edit Travel Information” to fix the errors]
• Travel Companions Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in travel companions information, click on “Edit Travel Companions Information” to fix the errors]
• Previous U.S. Travel Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in previous US travel information, click on “Edit Previous U.S. Travel Information” to fix the errors]

Subsection: U.S. Contact

Review the entered information in “U.S. Contact”

• U.S. Point of Contact Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in US point of contact information, click on “Edit U.S. Point of Contact Information” to fix the errors]

Subsection: Family

Review the entered information in “Family”

• Family Information: Relatives [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in relatives information, click on “Edit Family Information: Relatives” to fix the errors]
• Family Information: Spouse [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in spouse information, click on “Edit Family Information: Spouse” to fix the errors]

Subsection: Work/Education/Training

Review the entered information in “Work/Education/Training”

• Present Work Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in present work information, click on “Edit Present Work Information” to fix the errors]
• Previous Work Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in previous work information, click on “Edit Previous Work Information” to fix the errors]
• Additional Information [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in additional information, click on “Edit Additional Information” to fix the errors]

Subsection: Security and Background

Review the entered information in “Security and Background”

• Part 1 [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in part 1, click on “Edit Part 1” to fix the errors]
• Part 2 [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in part 2, click on “Edit Part 2” to fix the errors]
• Part 3 [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in part 3, click on “Edit Part 3” to fix the errors]
• Part 4 [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in part 4, click on “Edit Part 4” to fix the errors]
• Part 5 [ Instruction : If you see any mistakes in part 5, click on “Edit Part 5” to fix the errors]

Subsection: Location

Review the entered information in “Location”

• Location [ Instruction : If you have made a mistake in selecting the location for your visa interview, click on “Edit Location Information” to select a different location]

14. Sign and Submit

Preparer of Application

• Did anyone assist you in filling out this application? [ Instruction : Select “No”. Select “Yes” ONLY if a travel agent completed your application on your behalf]

E-Signature

• Enter your Passport/Travel Document Number: [ Instruction : Enter your passport number]
• Enter the code as shown: [ Instruction : Enter the code shown in the captcha]

After entering the above information, click on “Sign and Submit Application” to electronically sign and submit your DS-160.

IMPORTANT Once you click on “Sign and Submit Application”, you cannot make any more changes to your DS-160. If you notice any errors, then you have to fill out a new application altogether. So, make sure all your information is correct and error-free before clicking on “Sign and Submit Application”.

After you click on “Sign and Submit Application”, the following confirmation is displayed.

“You have successfully signed and submitted your application. You cannot make any changes to your application at this point. Please click ‘Next: Confirmation’ to complete the application process”

Click on the “Next: Confirmation” button to view and print your DS-160 confirmation.

15. Confirmation

On this page, confirmation of your DS-160 will be displayed. You will see 3 options –

• Print Confirmation [ Instruction : Click this button to print DS-160 confirmation. A print of your DS-160 confirmation is required to attend your US visa interview]
• Print Application [ Instruction : Click this button to print a copy of DS-160 itself. This is for your records only. You do not need a DS-160 print for your interview]
• Email Confirmation [ Instruction : Click this button to email DS-160 confirmation. You can also print this DS-160 confirmation from your email later]

Print DS-160 confirmation from this screen on an A4 or letter-size paper. If not, at least save it as a PDF so you will have a copy. Email a copy to yourself as well so you can print it later if needed.

Also, print a copy of your DS-160 to PDF so you will have a copy of that too. Later down the line if you are applying/renewing the visa, you can upload this PDF to pre-populate the DS-160 form for you. It would save a ton of time.

WHAT’S NEXT?

After you complete and submit your DS-160, the next step would be to pay the MRV fee and schedule your US visa interview. Follow this detailed step-by-step guide on how to schedule US visa interview .

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How to edit an already submitted DS-160 form?

Editing an already submitted DS-160 form is not possible. You will have to fill out a new DS-160 form. But you can retrieve your already submitted DS-160 form to pre-populate the information in your new DS-160 form. Follow the below steps.

– Go to the US Department of State’s  Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160)  page – Click on “Retrieve an Application” – You will be asked whether you want to view the confirmation page or start a new application – Select “Start a new application” – Enter your Application ID – Submit

A new DS-160 form will be started with the information from your previous DS-160 form. Make necessary updates and submit the form. A confirmation page with a new bar code will be displayed. Print and use this new DS-160 confirmation page for your US visa appointment. Discard the old confirmation page.

If applying as a family, does everyone in the family need to submit a separate DS-160 form?

Yes. If you are applying US visas for the entire family, everyone in your family must submit a separate DS-160 form. Follow the below steps for completing DS-160 forms for everyone in the family.

1) Start your (primary applicant) DS-160 form first. Add your family members as your travel companions. 2) After submitting your DS-160 form, on the “thank you” page, you will be given the option to create the remaining DS-160 forms for your family members. 3) Follow the on-screen instructions from there, some of the common information (such as travel dates, companions, etc) will be copied over to your family members’ DS-160 forms. This saves time and helps to avoid making mistakes.

How to contact the National Visa Center if you have technical issues with DS-160

If you are facing any technical issues with your DS-160 form, you can contact the National Visa Center for help. Keep in mind that this is a phone-only help and you will have to call a US phone number. You can find the phone number on the US Department of State’s US Visas Contacts page.

That’s it, folks! Follow this step-by-step guide to fill DS-160 form for your US visa. If you have any questions or stuck at any step, reach out to me via social media or email.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

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Home » Guide to Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record

Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record

Form i-94 explained, what is form i-94, arrival/departure record.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issues Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record , to certain foreign nationals at the time of entry. They do not issue an I-94 arrival/departure record to U.S. citizens, permanent residents (green card holders), returning resident aliens (SB-1 visa holders), or most Canadian citizens visiting or in transit. USCIS may also issue a Form I-94 as part of granting a foreign national an extension of stay or change of status. All other foreign nationals should be aware of their I-94 when: 

• Admitted to the U.S.;
• Adjusting status while in the U.S.; or
• Extending their stay.

The purpose of Form I-94 is to communicate the terms of a foreign national's visit to the United States. It indicates information such as admission category and the expected departure date. But it also serves as proof of a non-citizen's lawful entry to the U.S. It's an essential document when applying for many other immigration statuses.

Foreign nationals who visit the United States through the Visa Waiver Program do not get Form I-94. Instead, they receive Form I-94W (Nonimmigrant Visa Waiver Arrival/Departure Record).

How to Find Your Arrival/Departure Record

Where to get form i-94.

Most people can retrieve their I-94 arrival/departure record online from a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website. However, CBP continues to issue paper-based arrival/departure records for some situations.

There’s no need to request an I-94. CBP automatically issues the electronic I-94 at entry through an airport or seaport. If you entered through a border crossing, CBP generally issues a paper Form I-94 with some exceptions as described below.

Electronic I-94 Record

Since May 2013, U.S. Customs and Border Protection has automatically issued an electronic Form I-94 to travelers entering at air and sea ports. However, CBP doesn't issue the electronic I-94 directly to the traveler. Travelers must go to CBP’s I-94 website to obtain the electronic I-94 arrival/departure record. From here, you can print a document for your records.

The website also includes travel history from the previous 10 years of arrivals and departures. The travel history is an informational tool; it is not an official record for legal purposes.

Paper I-94 Record

Prior to May 2013, all foreign visitors received a paper I-94 arrival/departure record much like the sample. However, CBP continues to issue paper I-94 records in certain situations.

Since electronic I-94 arrival/departure records are only issued at air and sea ports of entry, a paper Form I-94 is still issued at the land border ports of entry. CBP also continues to provide a paper Form I-94 to certain classes of aliens, such as refugees, certain asylees and parolees, and whenever CBP determines the issuance of a paper form is appropriate.

Travelers can speed up their entry into the U.S. by providing their biographic and travel information, and paying the $6 fee for their I-94 application online up to seven days prior to their entry. You'll receive a provisional I-94 after submitting your application and payment.

Anatomy of an I-94

What does form i-94 look like.

The arrival/departure record contains important information regarding a foreign national's visit to the United States. The information is critical to knowing the extent of your authorized stay and staying "in status." The highlighted fields below are commonly needed when applying for certain immigration benefits. On the CBP website, you may print a copy like the sample Form I-94 below.

Admission (I-94) Record Number : Also known as the I-94 Number, Departure Number or Admission Record Number, it is an 11-character alphanumeric number. It provides a unique number for reach entry. Most Recent Date of Entry : This date should reflect the exact date that you were admitted to the United States. This can vary slightly from the date you physically entered the country if your inspection was outside the United States. Class of Admission : This code describes your category of nonimmigrant status. For example, it may indicate B-2 for leisure visitor or F-1 for student. Admit Until Date : This is the day your immigration status expires in the U.S. You must exit the U.S. on or before the Admit Until Date. For students and other exchange visitors, this date is “D/S” or Duration of Status. For other visa classifications, this will be a hard end date.

I-94 Troubleshooting Tips

What can i do if the cbp site doesn't find my record.

If you are having difficulty finding your electronic I-94 record using CBP's I-94 website , the American Immigration Lawyers Association recommends using the following troubleshooting tips:

• Enter the name as stated on your travel document (i.e. passport). If you are not successful using the passport, try using your visa or the submitted Form DS-160 (if available) for name variations. Try entering the name as stated on each document.
• Enter the first and middle name in the First Name field. In the first name field, type the first and the middle name (if any) with a space in between. Do this even if the middle name is not stated on the passport or visa.
• If this is not successful, try to switch the order of the names. Switch the last and first name when entering the information on the website. Some countries state the name in the passport as first name, last name, rather than the more standard order of last name, first name. This may cause the name to be recorded incorrectly in the CBP system.
• Enter multiple first names or multiple last names without spaces. If a person has two first names or two last names, type the first names without a space between them or the last names without a space between them. Example: type the first names “Mary Jane” as “Maryjane.”
• Check for multiple passport numbers. Check the Form DS-160 (if available) for the passport number stated. If the passport number on the Form DS-160 is different than the passport number on which the person was admitted, type the passport number as stated on the submitted Form DS-160. Also, check the passport number stated on the visa. If the passport number is different than the current passport, enter the passport number stated on the visa.
• Do not enter the year if included in the passport number. Some passport numbers may begin with the year in which the passport was issued, causing the number to be too long for the relevant field in CBP’s automation system. If relevant, try entering the passport number without the year. For example, a Mexican passport that was issued in 2008 may have a passport number that starts with “08” followed by nine digits. Try entering the passport number without the “08.” This problem should not arise for newer Mexican passports, as those passports do not begin with the year.
• Check the classification designated on the visa and compare it to the classification stated on the admission stamp in the passport, as there may be a slight variation. Be sure to try both designations. For example, the visa may state “E-3D” for an E-3 dependent, but the admission stamp may state only “E-3.” The automated I-94 could state the classification either way.

If none of the above efforts resolve the issue in locating your electronic I-94 record, telephone or visit a CBP Deferred Inspection Office and explain the problem. Over the years, we've seen several cases with visitors who were never issued a record. Contact the CBP with your flight information. Some of the Deferred Inspection Offices have been able to resolve the problem over the phone without an in person visit; however, other offices may require an in-person visit with the non-citizen.

Fixing an Incorrect Form I-94

What do i do if my arrival/departure record has incorrect information.

If you have an incorrect I-94 record, there is generally a way to fix it. A misspelled name or incorrect entry date may lead to confusion on other applications. Both Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may issue a Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. If a mistake was made by you or the government, you’ll need to correct it.

Correct an Arrival/Departure Record Issued by CBP

If Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued your I-94 record, you'll need to visit the CBP Deferred Inspection Office closest to your location. Most foreign nationals receive an I-94 from CBP at the time of entry in one of the following ways.

• Electronic I-94 : Issued to the vast majority of foreign national visitors at air and sea ports of entry.
• Paper I-94 : Issued at land border ports of entry and to certain classes of aliens, such as refugees, certain asylees and parolees, and whenever CBP determines that issuance of a paper form is appropriate.

Sometimes CBP may issue an incorrect I-94. Common errors include incorrect entry dates or misspelled names. In many cases, these errors can easily be corrected. If you arrived at an airport, you can generally contact the CBP office inside the airport and request a correction.

When the airport does not have a CBP office, contact the closest CBP Deferred Inspection Site or call CBP at 1-877-CBP-5511 (1-877-227-5511). You may be required to visit the office with documentation (passport and visa) and your incorrect I-94 record.

Correct an Arrival/Departure Record Issued by USCIS

In some cases, USCIS issues a Form I-94 as part of granting a foreign national an extension of stay or change of status. If USCIS issued your Form I-94, you will need to file a Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Document .

When filing Form I-102 due to an incorrect I-94 record, you will need to submit a filing fee and supporting documentation that provides proof of the correct information. Attach a statement dated and signed by you, explaining specifically what information on your I-94 record is incorrect. You must also attach evidence verifying the validity of the information submitted for correction purposes. Finally, you must submit your original, incorrect I-94 with the I-102 application.

If the mistake on your Form I-94 record is due to a USCIS error, you'll need to request a correct I-94 through an Infopass appointment at your local USCIS office. Schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-375-5283. Take your original, incorrect I-94 record and evidence of the error to your appointment. USCIS will correct the I-94 at no cost. If you are unable to prove that the mistake was made by USCIS, you will be advised to file Form I-102 with a fee.

Replacing an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

What do i do about a lost i-94.

If you have a lost, stolen, mutilated, or destroyed Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, it is possible to replace it. Before you start, it’s helpful to know if you have an electronic or paper I-94. Knowing this will help determine how to replace the Arrival/Departure Record. Replacing an electronic version is a simple matter. However, replacing paper I-94 records can take several months and generally require a filing fee.

Replace an Electronic Travel Record

Modern I-94 Arrival/Departure Records are available electronically if the foreign national traveled by air or sea. An electronic I-94 can be obtained by going to the CBP I-94 website .

"Replacing" an electronic I-94 form is easy and free. Simply return to the CBP I-94 website and enter the necessary information to lookup your Arrival/Departure Record. You may print the electronic I-94 for when submitting with USCIS applications.

Replace a Paper Travel Record

Before CBP issued I-94 records electronically, they provided a paper form to foreign nationals arriving to the United States. In fact, CBP continues to issue paper Form I-94 at land border ports of entry and to certain classes of aliens, such as refugees, certain asylees and parolees, and whenever CBP determines that issuance of a paper form is appropriate. A paper-based version of the arrival/departure record is labeled "Form I-94A."

Replacing a paper I-94A form is a little more complicated. You will need to file a Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Document . File the form with USCIS along with a $445 filing fee (at the time of writing this) and supporting documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do not confuse Form I-94 with a visa. They are closely related, but they are different.

The visa is an entry document. It must be valid when seeking admission into the United States. The I-94 (arrival/departure record) is a status document. It describes the foreign national's visa or parole status once inside the United States, and it also defines the length of stay permitted. Once a foreign national visitor is admitted to the United States, dates on the visa do not define how long the traveler is allowed to stay. Instead, the I-94 is the controlling document. Therefore, it's an extremely important document.

Your I-94 can expire, but make sure you are looking at the correct date. On an electronic document, you may see three dates:

• OMB Expiration Date: The first date in the top right-hand corner is the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) form expiration date. All government forms include OMB dates. The OMB validity date changes periodically and an expired OMB date does not invalidate the I-94 record or form. OMB dates are not related to a non-immigrant’s status in the U.S.
• Most Recent Date of Entry: Like it sounds, this is the most recent date that you entered the U.S.
• Admit Until Date: This is an extremely important date. The Admit Until Date is the date that your status expires. For students and other exchange visitors, this date is “D/S” or Duration of Status. For other visa classifications, this will be a hard end date. You must leave by this date or you will be in violation of your status.

There is no fee for the I-94 form. That’s true whether you’re arriving by land, air, or sea, and regardless of whether you get a paper or electronic record. The government provides the form at no cost.

However, you can optionally apply online for a provisional I-94 one week or less before your arrival date if you’re arriving at a land border port of entry. Applying for a provisional I-94 costs $6, but doing this can streamline the arrival process and minimize the time you spend waiting in line at the border.

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Travel Documents

If you wish to return to the United States lawfully after traveling outside the United States, you generally must have a:

• Valid entry document, such as a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or nonimmigrant visa; or
• Valid and unexpired travel document.

The type of document you need varies depending on your immigration status (including lawful permanent resident status) or if you have a pending immigration benefit request.

You generally need to apply for and obtain a travel document before you leave the United States. Before planning travel, please consider USCIS processing times . If you have an urgent need to travel outside the United States, see our Expedite Request and  Emergency Travel  pages for additional information.

File  Form I-131, Application for Travel Document , to request travel documents, including:

• Advance parole document for noncitizens in the United States seeking to return after temporary travel abroad (including advance permission to travel for Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) long-term residents);
• Refugee travel document;
• Reentry permit; or
• Temporary Protected Status travel authorization.

If you are already outside the United States and need to return, but do not have your reentry permit, Green Card, advance parole document, or Temporary Protected Status travel authorization document because it was lost, stolen, or destroyed, see Form I-131A, Application for Carrier Documentation.

NOTE:  If you file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, to request an advance parole document to authorize your return to the United States after temporary travel abroad and  you depart the United States before we issue your advance parole document, we will consider your Form I-131 application abandoned unless you were previously issued an advance parole document that remains valid for the entire time you are outside the United States.

Travel outside of the United States may have severe immigration-related consequences.

Admission or parole into the United States is not guaranteed even if you have the appropriate documents. You are still subject to immigration inspection or examination at a port of entry to determine whether you may be admitted or paroled into the country and whether you are eligible for the immigration status you seek.

Additional cautions for people in certain circumstances are summarized below.

If you are a nonimmigrant

If you have been admitted as a nonimmigrant and have filed Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status , to change to a different nonimmigrant status, we generally will consider your Form I-539 abandoned if you leave the United States before we make a decision on your application, though there are some exceptions.  Having an advance parole document does not prevent abandonment of the change of status application. When you return to the United States, you are likely to be denied admission if your current status has expired.

If you have a pending Green Card application

In general, if you are applying for adjustment of status (a Green Card) and leave the United States without the appropriate travel documentation (for example, an advance parole document), you may not be allowed to reenter the United States when you return. Even if you are allowed to reenter, you may be found to have abandoned your pending application for adjustment of status.

If you have unlawful presence or a removal order

If you have accrued unlawful presence while in the United States or have a removal order, then you may be found inadmissible if you seek admission after a departure from the United States, even if you have a travel document.  We follow the Board of Immigration Appeals decision in Matter of Arrabally and Yerrabelly , which held that travel on advance parole does not constitute a “departure” for purposes of triggering the 10-year unlawful presence bar under Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) § 212(a)(9)(B)(i)(II) for applicants for adjustment of status. We also apply this analysis to INA § 212(a)(9)(B)(i)(I) and to individuals with TPS who travel on TPS travel authorization.  For more information, please see  Section 212(a)(9) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and the Unlawful Presence and Inadmissibility page. 

Advance parole allows you to travel back to the United States without applying for a visa. A transportation company (airlines) can accept an advance parole document instead of a visa as proof that you are authorized to travel to the United States. An advance parole document does not replace your passport.

Please note that having an advance parole document does not guarantee that you will be allowed to reenter the United States. At the airport or border, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer will make the final decision about whether to allow you to reenter the United States.

Advance parole is most commonly used when someone has a pending:

• Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status : If you depart the U.S. while your Form I-485 is pending without first obtaining advance parole, USCIS will deny your case unless you fit into a narrow exception for people with certain nonimmigrant statuses.
• Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal : If you are an asylum applicant and you intend to travel outside the United States and return, you must apply for and receive advance parole. If you leave the United States without first obtaining advance parole, we will assume that you have abandoned your asylum application.

For information on how to apply for advance parole, go to our Form I-131, Application for Travel Document page.

USCIS issues refugee travel documents to people with refugee or asylum status and to lawful permanent residents who obtained their Green Cards based on their refugee or asylee status.

You must have a refugee travel document to return to the United States if you:

• Have refugee or asylee status but are not a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder); or
• Are a derivative asylee or refugee.

If you do not obtain a refugee travel document before you leave the U.S., you may be unable to re-enter the United States or you may be placed in removal proceedings before an immigration judge.

For information on how to apply for a refugee travel document, go to our Form I-131, Application for Travel Document page.

Permanent or conditional residents should apply for a re-entry permit if they will be outside the United States for one year or more. While it is valid, a re-entry permit allows you to apply for admission to the U.S. without having to obtain a returning resident visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Go to our Form I-131, Application for Travel Document page for information on how to apply.

Travel authorization for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) beneficiaries allows you to travel back to the United States and, if you are eligible, be inspected and admitted into TPS. A transportation company (such as an airline) can accept a TPS travel authorization document instead of a visa as proof that you are authorized to travel to the United States. A TPS travel authorization document does not replace your passport.

Please note that having a TPS travel authorization document does not guarantee that you will be allowed to reenter the United States. At the airport or border, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer will make the final decision about whether to allow you to reenter the United States.

If we are still adjudicating your application for TPS and you wish to travel outside the United States, you may request advance parole.

For information on how to apply for TPS travel authorization, go to our Form I-131, Application for Travel Document , page.

Carrier documentation allows an airline or other transportation carrier to board permanent residents who have temporarily been outside the United States and whose Green Card or re-entry permit has been lost, stolen or destroyed. If you are a permanent resident in this situation, you may need to file a Form I-131A. Go to the Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation) for more information.

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What Is The Travel Document Number When Filing I-130

Published: November 4, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Pauly Markle

Introduction

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on understanding the travel document number when filing form I-130. If you’re in the process of sponsoring a family member for immigration to the United States, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of all the required information on the I-130 form. One important piece of information that may be requested on the form is the travel document number.

Form I-130, also known as the Petition for Alien Relative, is a crucial step in helping your family member obtain lawful permanent residency in the United States. This form is filed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) on behalf of their family member seeking to immigrate to the U.S. It establishes the qualifying relationship between the petitioner and the beneficiary and begins the process of obtaining an immigrant visa.

In this guide, we will delve into the details of what a travel document number is, why it is required on the I-130 form, where to find it, and what to do if you don’t have one. Whether you’re starting the immigration process for the first time or just need some clarification on this specific aspect, we’re here to help you navigate through it.

It’s important to note that the information provided here is intended as a general guide and should not replace legal advice from an immigration attorney or the official instructions provided by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It’s always recommended to consult with a legal professional or refer to the USCIS website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Now, let’s dive into the world of travel document numbers and how they relate to the I-130 immigration form.

Understanding the I-130 Form

The I-130 form, officially known as the Petition for Alien Relative, is a key document in the process of sponsoring a family member for immigration to the United States. This form is filed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) to establish the qualifying relationship between themselves and the beneficiary, who is the family member seeking to immigrate to the U.S.

Through the I-130 form, the petitioner is essentially petitioning the U.S. government to recognize the familial relationship with the beneficiary and allow them to immigrate as immediate relatives or through a family preference category. Immediate relatives include spouses, unmarried minor children (under 21 years old), and parents of U.S. citizens. Other eligible relatives may fall under family preference categories based on their relationship to the U.S. citizen or LPR.

When completing the I-130 form, it’s essential to provide accurate and detailed information to establish the familial relationship. This includes personal information about both the petitioner and beneficiary, such as full names, dates of birth, citizenship or immigration status, and addresses. The form also requires supporting documentation to verify the relationship, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, or adoption papers.

It’s crucial to ensure that all required fields are completed correctly and that any necessary attachments or supporting documents are included. Failure to provide accurate information or missing documentation can result in delays or denials in the immigration process. Therefore, always double-check the form and seek guidance from an immigration attorney or refer to the USCIS instructions to ensure accuracy.

Once the I-130 form is filed and approved, it establishes the qualifying relationship between the petitioner and beneficiary, laying the foundation for the beneficiary to proceed with the next steps in the immigration process, such as applying for an immigrant visa or adjustment of status.

Now that we have a basic understanding of the I-130 form, let’s delve into the specific information regarding the travel document number and its significance in the filing process.

What is a Travel Document Number?

A travel document number, also known as a passport number or document identifier, is a unique combination of letters, numbers, or both that is assigned to a travel document, such as a passport or a refugee travel document. This number serves as a unique identifier for the document and helps to track and verify the identity of the traveler.

When filling out the I-130 form, you may come across a field that requests the travel document number for the beneficiary. It is important to provide this information accurately, as it helps the U.S. government verify the identity and travel history of the individual seeking immigration to the United States.

The travel document number is usually found on the biographical information page of the passport. It is typically a series of numbers, letters, or a combination of both. In most cases, a passport number is nine digits long, though it can vary depending on the issuing country. It is important to enter the travel document number exactly as it appears on the passport to avoid any mistakes or discrepancies in the immigration process.

It’s worth noting that not all beneficiaries may have a travel document number. For example, if the beneficiary is in the United States and does not have a valid passport, they may not have a travel document number to provide. In such cases, there are alternative options for proceeding with the I-130 filing, which we will discuss later in this guide.

It is crucial to provide accurate and up-to-date travel document numbers for all eligible beneficiaries to ensure smooth processing of the I-130 application. Failure to provide this information or providing incorrect information can lead to delays or potential issues with the immigration process. Therefore, it is recommended to double-check the information and refer to the passport or travel document itself for accurate details.

Understanding the importance of the travel document number and its role in the I-130 form is vital to ensure compliance with the USCIS requirements and to facilitate the immigration process for your family member.

Why is a Travel Document Number required?

The travel document number is a required piece of information on the I-130 form for several reasons. It serves as a crucial means of verifying the identity of the beneficiary and their travel history. Let’s explore the main reasons why a travel document number is required when filing the I-130 petition:

Where to find the Travel Document Number?

When filling out the I-130 form, it’s important to accurately provide the travel document number for the beneficiary. The travel document number can usually be found on the biographical information page of the passport or travel document. Here are some guidelines on where to find this important piece of information:

How to file the I-130 without a Travel Document Number?

In some cases, the beneficiary may not have a travel document number to provide on the I-130 form. This can happen if the beneficiary is in the United States and does not possess a valid passport or any other travel document. If you find yourself in this situation, here are some alternative options for filing the I-130 without a travel document number:

Filing form I-130 for family-based immigration is a complex process that requires careful attention to detail and accurate completion of all required fields. Understanding the significance and requirements of the travel document number is essential to ensure the smooth processing of the I-130 petition.

In this comprehensive guide, we have explored the travel document number and its role in the I-130 filing process. We learned that the travel document number serves as a unique identifier for a passport or other travel document and is required to verify the identity and travel history of the beneficiary.

We discussed where to find the travel document number, primarily on the biographical information page of the passport or travel document. We provided guidance on accurately entering this information and the importance of consistency and accuracy throughout the immigration process.

In situations where the beneficiary does not have a travel document, we outlined alternative options for filing the I-130, such as explaining the situation, providing alternative forms of identification, or submitting a sworn affidavit. It is crucial to consult with an immigration attorney or refer to the USCIS instructions for guidance specific to your circumstances.

Remember, this guide serves as a general overview and should not replace legal advice. It’s always recommended to consult with an immigration attorney or refer to the official USCIS instructions for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

By understanding the importance of the travel document number and following the appropriate procedures, you can ensure a smoother immigration process for your family member. With thorough preparation and attention to detail, you can navigate the I-130 filing process confidently and efficiently.

Good luck as you proceed with your journey of sponsoring your family member for immigration to the United States!

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