I'll need to apply for removal of conditions later this year (I arrived on 24 Oct 2004 - so around end of July 06). I'd also like to start planning a trip to the UK (not a long trip 7 to 10 days probably), but don't want to arrange something which will clash with I.751 stuff. September would be my first choice for a trip.

I understand from reading other posts here that once one receives a receipt for the I751 travel permission is included. I feel doubtful about timing a trip to the UK. I don't really want to wait until after end of October, but on the other hand don't want to be away before a receipt arrived or when/if they ask for more info/interview/ etc.

I'd be grateful for any advice.

The way I avoided this is I went abroad before my green card expired and now I'm not planning any trips until I get the new green card. Things are just too uncertain with immigration procedures and I didn't want to plan any trips that I then wouldn't be able to realize. As it turns out 2 months after filing I still haven't gotten the receipt with the travel permission, so I can't travel anyway. This is not typical of course, but surprises like this are not uncommon dealing with the USCIS.

A different way of putting it, but yes, the NOA is paper proof that your residency status is ongoing and you still have all the rights and privileges that your residency gives you. Included with those rights are employment authorization and travel without need for advance parole.

They will not ask for more information. If there is a question about the validity of your marriage due to lack of documentation, you will called for an interview. The one thing that others have received lately is a request to mail CIS the actual green card. It would appear from those requests that the adjudication of the I-751 is immient and that the new green card will be mailed to you.

Yes you can. You only need to make an Infopass appointment, bring your receipts of mailing and copies of your filing and get the I-551 stamp in your passport. That is all you need to travel "safely"

Thank you for your replies Marjeta and Rete.

I'll look for further information about Infopass - I've not heard of that before.

I'm sure the powers that be don't wish to stop us PRs from travelling during the intermediate period, it's just a matter of taking care not to inadvertantly step on their toes I guess.