Losing your I-94 or visa stamp can be stressful. You might urgently need to prove your legal status in the US. A “Letter To Replace Lost I-94 Or Visa Stamp” is what you need. You’ll use it to explain your situation to the relevant authorities.
Finding the right words can be tricky. Creating such a letter can feel daunting. This article helps simplify the process.
Below, find templates, examples and samples. You can easily adapt these to your specific situation. These examples make writing your letter much easier.
Letter To Replace Lost I-94 Or Visa Stamp
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
[CBP Office Address, if known, otherwise omit]
Subject: Request for Replacement of Lost I-94 or Visa Stamp
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to request assistance in replacing my lost I-94 form or visa stamp. I am a [Your Nationality] citizen and entered the United States on [Date of Entry] at [Port of Entry, if known].
My I-94 number (if known) was [Your I-94 Number, if known]. My visa stamp was in my passport number [Your Passport Number], which was issued on [Date of Passport Issuance] and expired on [Date of Passport Expiration].
I lost my [I-94 form/passport containing visa stamp] on [Date of Loss] in [Location of Loss, if known]. I have attached a copy of my passport (if available) and any other documents that may help in locating my record.
I would appreciate it if you could provide me with a replacement I-94 form or instructions on how to obtain a replacement visa stamp. I need this document to [Explain why you need the document, e.g., continue my studies, maintain my legal status, etc.].
Thank you for your time and assistance.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
How to Write Letter To Replace Lost I-94 Or Visa Stamp
Subject Line: Clarity is Key
The subject line is the lodestar that guides your letter to the correct department. The U.S. immigration bureaucracy is labyrinthine, so precision is paramount.
- Clearly state: “Request for I-94/Visa Stamp Replacement – [Your Name] – [Alien Registration Number, if applicable]”.
- Example: “Request for I-94 Replacement – Jane Doe – A123456789”.
Salutation: Formality First
While a touch of cordiality doesn’t hurt, erring on the side of formality is judicious when appealing to a governmental agency. Avoid overly casual greetings.
- Preferred: “To Whom It May Concern,” OR “U.S. Customs and Border Protection,”. Do not fret about specificity if the exact recipient is unknown.
- Avoid: “Hey,” or overly familiar greetings. Maintain decorum.
Introduction: Conciseness Compels Compliance
The opening paragraph is your chance to quickly establish the purpose of your letter. Be straightforward; brevity is a virtue.
- State your name, alien registration number (if applicable), and the purpose of your letter: requesting a replacement I-94 or Visa stamp due to loss.
- Example: “I, Jane Doe, with Alien Registration Number A123456789, am writing to request a replacement for my lost I-94 form.
- Briefly mention when and where you last entered the U.S., if you recall. This tidbit aids in expediting the recuperation procedure.
Body Paragraphs: Elucidate with Evidence
This section permits you to paint a fuller portrait of your predicament. Include pertinent details that can buttress your claim.
- Describe the circumstances surrounding the loss of your document. Was it stolen, misplaced, or destroyed in a specific incident?
- Provide copies of any available documentation supporting your legal status in the U.S. (e.g., passport bio page, previous I-797 approval notices, driver’s license). Even photocopies of photocopies can be useful.
- Include your current U.S. address and contact information (phone number and email address).
- State whether you have previously applied for any immigration benefits (e.g., change of status, extension of stay). If so, provide the receipt numbers.
Financial Accountability: Payment Preparedness
Replacing an I-94 or Visa stamp may involve a fee. Demonstrate willingness to remit expeditiously. Ascertain the current fee structure via the USCIS website.
- State that you understand there may be a fee associated with the replacement and that you are prepared to pay it.
- Do NOT send payment with your letter. Wait for instructions from USCIS on how to submit payment.
- Indicate you would appreciate information on the appropriate payment method.
Closing: Courteous Conclusion
End your letter with a tone of gratitude and willingness to cooperate. A perfunctory closing is all that is needed.
- Express your appreciation for their consideration of your request.
- Offer your willingness to provide any additional information or documentation if needed.
- Example: “Thank you for your time and consideration. I am available to furnish any further information you may require.”
Signature: Authenticity Affirmed
The signature is self-explanatory, but remember to also type your name beneath the signature for increased legibility.
- Sign the letter in ink.
- Type your full name below your handwritten signature.
Frequently Asked Questions: Replacing a Lost I-94 or Visa Stamp
This section addresses common questions regarding the replacement of lost or stolen I-94 documents or visa stamps. Please review the following FAQs to understand the necessary steps and procedures.
What should I do if my I-94 is lost or stolen?
If your I-94 is lost or stolen, you should immediately apply for a replacement through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website or at a deferred inspection site.
How do I apply for a replacement I-94 online?
You can request a replacement I-94 online via the CBP’s I-94 website. You will need to provide personal information and travel details.
What documents are required to replace a lost visa stamp?
To replace a lost visa stamp, you generally need to apply for a new visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate, providing proof of identity, application forms, and any supporting documentation as required.
Can I travel outside the U.S. without a valid I-94 or visa stamp?
Traveling outside the U.S. without a valid I-94 or visa stamp may cause issues upon re-entry. It is generally advisable to obtain a replacement before traveling.
How long does it take to replace a lost I-94 or visa stamp?
The processing time for replacing an I-94 or visa stamp can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the processing times of the relevant government agencies.
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