Lost OPT Card: Steps to Replace It and Maintain Legal Status

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Key Takeaways:

Losing OPT card does not immediately impact legal status; USCIS system holds approval till expiry date.
Replace lost OPT card by filing Form I-765, attaching supporting documents, paying fee, and submitting application to USCIS.
Losing OPT card doesn’t allow new OPT period; stay updated on application status, avoid travel until replacement arrives.

What Should You Do If You Lose Your OPT Card?

Losing your Optional Practical Training (OPT) card can be a stressful experience, especially given the importance of this document for maintaining your legal working status in the United States. However, it’s essential to know that losing the physical card does not immediately impact your legal status. Your OPT approval is stored in the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) system, and your status remains valid till the expiry date mentioned on your lost card.

Lost OPT Card: Steps to Replace It and Maintain Legal Status

Will Losing My OPT Card Affect My Legal Status?

The loss of your OPT card does not directly affect your legal status. Your employment authorization continues as per the original dates approved by USCIS. However, it is critical to have a physical copy of your OPT card for job verification, traveling, and re-entering the U.S. after travel, among other formalities. Therefore, it is important to initiate the replacement process as soon as possible to avoid complications in proving your work authorization when needed.

How Can You Replace Your Lost OPT Card?

The process to replace a lost OPT card is quite straightforward but requires careful attention to detail to ensure smooth processing. Here are the steps you should follow to request a replacement:

File Form I-765: Complete and submit USCIS Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, which is the same form used to apply for the initial OPT. On the form, you will need to select the replacement reason for your application.
Attach Supporting Documentation: Along with your Form I-765, attach a letter explaining the loss of your card and the need for a replacement. Include your original OPT receipt notice if available. Also, provide copies of your previous OPT card (if you have them), passport, visa, Form I-94, and recent passport-sized photographs.
Pay the Filing Fee: As of 2024, the fee to file Form I-765 for OPT replacement is $410. This fee is subject to change, so it’s advised to check the current fee on the USCIS website before submitting your application.
Submit Your Application: Send the completed form, fee, and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS filing address, which you can find on the USCIS website based on your location.

Can You Apply for a New Period of OPT If You Lose Your Card?

It’s important to understand that losing your OPT card does not entitle you to apply for a fresh period of OPT. OPT is granted for a maximum of 12 months, with a possible 24-month extension for STEM degree holders, per degree level. It cannot be extended beyond this by reapplying. The replacement process does not reset or extend the duration of your already approved OPT period.

Helpful Tips While Waiting for Your Replacement Card

Maintain Your Employment: You can continue working while your replacement OPT card is being processed, provided you are within your authorized OPT dates. Keep copies of your replacement application and receipt notice from USCIS to show to your employer if needed.
Travel Considerations: Avoid traveling outside of the U.S. while your replacement card is pending unless absolutely necessary, as re-entering the country without a physical OPT card can be risky and may lead to complications at the border.
Stay Informed: Keep track of your application status online through the USCIS website. Regularly checking can help you stay updated and take any necessary actions if there are issues with your application.

What If Your Situation Changes?

If your circumstances change (e.g., change in address, new employer, etc.) while your replacement application is pending, update USCIS immediately. This ensures that all correspondence and the new card are sent to the correct address, and your records are up-to-date.

For further guidance and official information related to the process, visiting the official USCIS page on OPT can provide you with the most accurate and helpful information.

Losing your OPT card is undoubtedly an inconvenience, but by acting promptly and following the correct procedures, you can mitigate any potential disruptions to your work and legal status in the U.S. Remember, the key is to apply for a replacement card swiftly and to keep copies of all submitted documentation for your records.

Learn Today:

OPT (Optional Practical Training):
- Definition: Optional Practical Training is a temporary employment benefit for international students in the U.S. on an F-1 visa that allows them to gain practical work experience in their field of study. OPT is typically granted for a period of 12 months post-graduation, with the possibility of a 24-month extension for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) degree holders.
USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services):
- Definition: USCIS is the government agency responsible for overseeing lawful immigration to the United States. It processes immigration and naturalization applications, including work permits like the OPT card, and enforces immigration laws.
Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization):
- Definition: Form I-765 is the official document international students use to apply for work authorization, such as OPT. It is submitted to USCIS to request permission to work legally in the U.S. for a specified period.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics):
- Definition: STEM refers to academic disciplines in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. In the context of OPT, this term is crucial as it denotes specific fields that may qualify for a 24-month extension of practical training after the initial 12-month period.
Filing Fee:
- Definition: The filing fee is the amount of money required to submit an application or petition to USCIS. For processes like replacing a lost OPT card, a specific fee must be paid with the application form to cover processing costs. The fee amount is subject to change and is set by USCIS based on the type of benefit being requested.

This Article In A Nutshell:

Losing your OPT card won’t impact your legal status immediately; USCIS holds your approval. To replace it, file Form I-765, pay the fee, and submit necessary documents. You can work while waiting for the new card. Avoid international travel and update USCIS for any changes. Stay informed by checking your application status online.
— By VisaVerge.com