Urgent! Can I extend my trip as my AP renewal is approved 3 days after departure

[qayaal]

Hi,

My previous AP was approved until Jan 27, 2009 and I have planned to travel outside of US and return by Jan. 24, 2009. My AP renewal has been approved (Dec. 30, 2008), 3 days after my departure from US (Departed on Dec. 27, 2008).

My question is, can I extend my trip since my friend can mail me the approved AP to me ? Please reply asap, so that I can plan my trip accordingly.

I did read some reviews as to requiring the AP approval before travel but my friend's wife did use her AP that was approved while she was outside of US. So, this conflicting comments have confused me. PLEASE HELP.

[txh1b]

It is risky. If you left prior to approval of AP, your 485 can be considered abandoned if an IO notices the string of events from your travel. It will possibly work fine but not worth the risk.

[qayaal]

Thank you txh1b for your suggestion.

I am abroad right now and received my new AP approval mailed by my friend from US. I received the status of approval via e-mail on Dec. 30, 2008 but the date of issue of my AP approval is Dec. 18, 2008, which is prior to my departure date from US.

Now, can I use my new AP to extend my trip so that I can use this new approval to re-enter US as it has an Issue Date prior to my departure date from US even though it was mailed to me by USCIS after I left the country.

Your suggestion is greatly appreciated.

Thank you again.

[PraetorianXI]

If the issue date (approval date) is prior to your departure, you should be fine.