A U.S. Refugee Travel Document issued in 1996-1997 allowed refugees residing in the United States to travel internationally. These documents are issued to individuals who have been granted refugee or asylum status in the U.S.
Key Aspects of the U.S. Refugee Travel Document:
- Purpose: The document enables refugees and asylees to travel outside the United States and return without needing a passport from their country of origin [[3]](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-8/chapter-I/subchapter-B/part-223). It confirms their legal status in the U.S. and their permission to re-enter.
- Issuance: The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues these documents. To obtain one, eligible individuals must apply using the appropriate form and provide supporting documentation.
- Validity: A refugee travel document is typically valid for one year, or until the refugee or asylee status expires, whichever is sooner [[3]](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-8/chapter-I/subchapter-B/part-223). It cannot be extended [[3]](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-8/chapter-I/subchapter-B/part-223).
- Requirements for Return: To return to the U.S., the refugee or asylee must present a valid, unexpired Refugee Travel Document, ensuring they are inspected for admissibility [[3]](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-8/chapter-I/subchapter-B/part-223).
- Regulations: The legal basis for these documents is found in Title 8 of the Code of Federal Regulations (8 CFR Part 223), which outlines the application process, eligibility, and conditions of use [[3]](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-8/chapter-I/subchapter-B/part-223).
Additional Considerations:
- Excellent Condition: The phrase “excellent condition” suggests the document has been well-preserved, which can be important if it is being collected or needs to be presented as proof of status.
- INS Coding: The former Immigration and Naturalization Services (INS) used specific codes to indicate refugee status on various documents, such as I-94 and I-551 forms [[5]](https://stgenssa.sccgov.org/debs/program_handbooks/calworks/assets/57RefugeeProg/RefDoc.htm).
- Invalidation: A Refugee Travel Document can be invalidated if it was obtained through fraud or misrepresentation, or if the holder is ordered excluded or deported [[3]](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-8/chapter-I/subchapter-B/part-223)










