Replace Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Immigration Documents
You must keep your immigration documents safe and in good condition at all times. If any document is lost, stolen, or damaged, follow the steps below as soon as possible.
Passport
To replace your passport, contact your country’s embassy or consulate in the United States. Each country has its own process and timeline.
If your passport was stolen, you should:
- Report the incident to the police
- Request a copy of the police report*
- Include the report when you apply for a replacement passport
After you receive your new passport, submit a copy to VIS using the Immigration Document Update eForm in accessVIS.
* A police report is an official document created by law enforcement after you report a loss, theft, or incident.F-1 Visa
Your visa is not replaced automatically when you receive a new passport.
Your F-1 visa is only required to enter the United States. You may remain in the U.S. with an expired visa as long as you maintain valid F-1 status.
The next time you travel outside the United States, you must apply for a new F-1 visa before you return.
Form I-20
VIS can issue a replacement Form I-20 if your document is lost, stolen, or damaged.
Because all reprinted I-20s are tracked in SEVIS, you should request a replacement only when necessary.
To request a replacement:
- Report the loss or theft to a local police department
- Request a copy of the police report
- Submit the Report Lost/Damaged I-20 eForm in accessVIS
- Upload a copy of the police report*
EAD Card (Employment Authorization Document)
If your EAD card is lost or stolen, you may be eligible to apply for a replacement through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Contact your VIS advisor before taking action so you understand your options and next steps.