Need to request a replacement document from USCIS? A “Sample Letter To USCIS Request For Replacement” is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a letter you write to USCIS. You use it when your green card, employment authorization document (EAD), or other important immigration document is lost, stolen, or damaged.
This article is your go-to resource. We know writing to USCIS can feel daunting. That’s why we are here.
We’ve compiled sample letters for various situations. These templates will make the process easier for you. Use these samples as a guide. Customize them to fit your specific needs.
Sample Letter To Uscis Request For Replacement
## Sample Letter To USCIS Request For Replacement
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address – if known, otherwise omit]
**Subject: Request for Replacement of [Document Name] – [Your A-Number]**
Dear USCIS Officer,
This letter is to request a replacement for my [Document Name], which was [Lost/Stolen/Damaged – choose one]. My A-Number is [Your A-Number].
[If lost/stolen: I lost my document on or around [Date] in [Location]. / My document was stolen on or around [Date] in [Location]. I have filed a police report – [Police Report Number, if applicable].]
[If damaged: The document was damaged on [Date] due to [Reason for damage]. I am including a copy of the damaged document, if possible.]
I understand there may be a fee associated with this replacement. Please let me know how to submit the required payment.
Thank you for your time and assistance.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
How to Write Letter To USCIS Request For Replacement
1. Crafting the Subject Line: Clarity is Paramount
The subject line is your initial communiqué. It needs to be direct and unequivocal. Instead of a generic “Request for Replacement,” try something like:
- Subject: Request for Replacement – [Your Document Type] – [USCIS Receipt Number]
- Alternative: Urgent Request: Replacement of [Document Name] – Case [USCIS Case Number]
2. Salutation: Initiating Formal Correspondence
Address USCIS with appropriate formality. Precision avoids ambiguity. Err on the side of caution.
- “To Whom It May Concern:” (Use if you lack a specific contact.)
- “Dear USCIS Officer:” (Acceptable if no individual name is known.)
- “Dear [Officer’s Name]:” (If you have a specific officer’s name, use it. This shows diligence.)
3. Introduction: Concisely State Your Purpose
Begin with a terse and unambiguous declaration of your intent. Don’t equivocate.
- “I am writing to formally request a replacement for my [Document Name], which has been [Lost/Stolen/Damaged].”
- “This letter serves as a formal request for the re-issuance of my [Form Type] document, as the original has been irretrievably [Lost/Destroyed].”
4. Body: Furnish Pertinent Details
The body is where you substantiate your claim. Provide all relevant information, leaving no room for conjecture.
- Personal Information: Full Name, Date of Birth, A-Number (if applicable), Current Address, Phone Number, Email Address.
- Document Details: Document Name, Receipt Number, Date of Issuance (if known), any identifying numbers on the document.
- Explanation: A concise but thorough explanation of how the document was lost, stolen, or damaged. Be forthright.
- Police Report (if applicable): If the document was stolen, include the police report number and a copy of the report.
5. Supporting Documentation: Bolstering Your Request
Mention the documents you are appending to your request. This demonstrates thoroughness.
- “Please find enclosed copies of [List of Documents], supporting my request for a replacement.”
- “I have attached photocopies of [List of Documents] as corroborating evidence.”
- Examples: Copy of Driver’s License, Passport, Birth Certificate, Police Report (if applicable), any other document that can verify your identity and the validity of your claim.
6. Closing: Express Gratitude and Anticipation
End with a courteous closing, expressing your appreciation and indicating your willingness to cooperate further.
- “Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to a propitious resolution to this matter.”
- “I appreciate your attention to this request and am available to provide any additional information necessary.”
- “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” followed by your full name and signature (if sending a physical letter). If sending electronically, type your full name.
7. Postscript: The Final Flourish
A brief postscript can highlight a critical piece of information or reiterate your contact details. Use sparingly.
- P.S. My current mailing address is crucial for the delivery of the replacement document. Please ensure its accuracy.
- P.S. I can be reached at [Phone Number] or [Email Address] should any clarification be required.
Frequently Asked Questions: Sample Letter to USCIS Request for Replacement
This section provides answers to common questions regarding writing a sample letter to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requesting a replacement document.
It aims to clarify the process and requirements for submitting such a request effectively.
1. What documents can I request a replacement for from USCIS?
You can typically request a replacement for Permanent Resident Cards (Green Cards), Employment Authorization Documents (EAD), and Naturalization Certificates, among others.
2. What information should I include in my replacement request letter?
Include your full name, A-number (if applicable), date of birth, current mailing address, phone number, email address, a clear explanation of why you need a replacement, and details of the lost or damaged document (if known).
3. Do I need to include any supporting documents with my request letter?
Yes, include copies of any available identification documents, such as a driver’s license, passport, or previous copies of the document you are replacing. Also, include a copy of the filing receipt of the application that granted you the original document, if possible.
4. Where should I send my replacement request letter?
Refer to the USCIS website or the instructions for Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) or other relevant forms to determine the appropriate mailing address based on your situation.
5. Is there a fee to request a replacement document?
Yes, for most replacement requests, there is a filing fee. Check the USCIS website or the instructions for the relevant form to confirm the current fee and acceptable payment methods.