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What to do if…
you lose your visa, residence permit, or immigration status card while abroad

Short answer

Secure your remaining ID first, then use the official U.S. process that matches what you lost (passport vs. green card vs. visa) so you can board travel and re-enter.

Do not do these things

  • Don’t try to travel on a U.S. passport after you report it lost or stolen (it becomes invalid for travel even if later found).
  • Don’t pay “visa agents” who promise to replace a U.S. visa or green card quickly—use official government routes only.
  • Don’t assume a photo of your card is enough for boarding; carriers often require specific official documentation.
  • Don’t delay reporting if theft is possible—lost documents are often used for identity fraud.

What to do now

  1. Get to a calmer base and confirm what’s missing.
    Re-check bags, accommodation safes, and last locations. If theft is likely, secure your phone, email, and financial accounts.

  2. Make a quick “proof pack.”
    Save (offline if possible): passport bio page, visa page (if any), green card (front/back), approval notices/receipt numbers, travel itinerary, and any photos of missing documents.

  3. If your U.S. passport is missing (U.S. citizens): report it and start replacement at the nearest U.S. embassy/consulate.
    Report it as lost/stolen (DS-64 process) and apply for a new passport in person at the embassy/consulate. Ask about urgent travel options.

  4. If you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) and your green card was lost/stolen abroad: start Form I-131A for carrier documentation.
    Form I-131A (Application for Carrier Documentation) is the standard route to get documentation that allows an airline to board you to the U.S. Follow the official instructions for your location.

  5. After you return to the U.S., replace the lost green card through USCIS.
    File Form I-90 to replace a lost/stolen Permanent Resident Card, so you’re not stuck long-term without the physical card.

  6. If your nonimmigrant U.S. visa (the visa foil in your passport) is lost with the passport: replace the passport first, then plan to apply for a new U.S. visa.
    In many cases, you will need to apply again at a U.S. embassy/consulate and follow that specific post’s instructions.

  7. If you’re worried you “lost status” because you can’t find your I-94: retrieve it from CBP.
    You can often view/print your most recent I-94 and travel history from the official CBP I-94 site. If your record is “not found,” follow CBP’s help guidance for next steps.

  8. Get a local police report if theft is suspected (or if you may need documentation).
    It’s not always required, but it can help with consular processes, carrier conversations, and insurance.

  9. Contact your airline/carrier before going to the airport and ask what they will accept to board you.
    Tell them what you lost and what you can provide (new passport receipt, I-131A carrier documentation, etc.). This reduces the chance of being turned away at check-in.

  10. If an employer/school/lawyer is involved in your status, notify them.
    They can help you locate receipt numbers, copies of filings, and confirm the right pathway—especially if you have pending applications.

What can wait

  • You do not need to decide right now whether to pursue complaints, refunds, or insurance claims.
  • You do not need to rebuild your entire immigration history today—focus on identity, reporting, and the minimum you need to travel.
  • You do not need to replace every supporting ID immediately unless identity theft is suspected.

Important reassurance

This is stressful because travel is time-sensitive and carriers can be strict, but there are established U.S. pathways for replacing passports, retrieving entry records, and obtaining carrier documentation for permanent residents.

Scope note

These are first steps to stabilise the situation and get you moving. Longer-term follow-up (replacement cards and record corrections) can come after you are safely home or settled.

Important note

This is general information, not legal advice. Requirements can vary by your exact status, how long you’ve been outside the U.S., and local consular and carrier policies. Use official U.S. government instructions and your consulate’s guidance for the country you are in.

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