AP Question

[payala]

So we sent all the paperwork a little over a week ago and we didn't apply for AP since I am not planning to leave the country till December. My questions are:

1) If I'm planning to go home for December, when should I send the form for the AP?
2) How long is an AP good for?

thanks!!

 

[ari4u]

So we sent all the paperwork a little over a week ago and we didn't apply for AP since I am not planning to leave the country till December. My questions are:

1) If I'm planning to go home for December, when should I send the form for the AP?
Going by the timeline, AP takes 30-90 days to get approved (unless you have an emergency, walkin to the DO and get AP the same day after proving your emergency). So it would be convenient if you can apply for AP around 90 days before you plan to leave. Even earlier is better so you dont have to worry about the unexplained delays that may cause your AP to take more than 90 days.

2) How long is an AP good for?
1 Year from date of approval. You can use that AP for multiple entries if you choose to in your application.

thanks!!

 

[payala]

thanks! I guess I'll apply for it around August then. We didn't file it right away also because it said that it can only be used for emergencies. Is 'visiting my family because I miss them =)' considered an emergency? What about going to make arrangements for my church wedding? I guess I'm not sure what exactly is considered an emergency.

 

[ari4u]

thanks! I guess I'll apply for it around August then. We didn't file it right away also because it said that it can only be used for emergencies. Is 'visiting my family because I miss them =)' considered an emergency? What about going to make arrangements for my church wedding? I guess I'm not sure what exactly is considered an emergency.

It is true that AP is for emergency travel but You are eligible to apply for AP as long as you have a pending I-485. Just provide a simple cover letter telling USCIS that you wish to travel at a particular date for any reason. You can look at the AOS timeline thread for some sample cover letters i have attached.

 

[payala]

We did use all your cover letters =)
It's just that I wish they didn't state that it was only for emergencies.

 

[ari4u]

We did use all your cover letters =)
It's just that I wish they didn't state that it was only for emergencies.

They cannot deny you an AP if you apply for it (but if you overstayed, dont use it even if it is approved). I got mine, i only stated that i plan to travel for a family get together. They say a lot of things, but you need to read between the lines.

Im glad those cover letters were of use to you