Does the approval of the I-140 prevent me from leaving the USA?

The status of your approved I-140 does not, by itself, prevent you from traveling outside the United States. This approved petition shows that you are qualified to apply for adjustment of status to permanent residence in the future, but it does not function as a passport or visa that restricts your mobility.

It is important to differentiate the I-140 from the adjustment of status process (I-485). While the I-140 approves your eligibility for an employment-based immigrant visa, the I-485 is the procedure that effectively adjusts your status to permanent resident.

If you have not yet applied for adjustment of status or if it is still pending, leaving the USA usually will not affect the outcome of your approved I-140. However, if your I-485 is pending, it is prudent to obtain a travel authorization document (Advance Parole) before leaving the country to avoid complications upon reentry.

Always remember to follow United States immigration laws and ensure that your situation is clearly defined before traveling. In cases of doubt, it is recommended to seek information from specialized professionals and be cautious of marketing proposals promising easy solutions to avoid falling into traps. Each case may have specific nuances, so it is worth staying well informed and consulting reliable sources to ensure that all rules are being correctly followed throughout the entire process.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.