Lost Your EAD? How to Request a Replacement (2026 Guide) | ¿Perdiste tu permiso de trabajo? Guía paso a paso (2026)

"Your Partner for a Better Life in the U.S."

Hello! If you have lost your Work Permit (Permiso de Trabajo), don't worry. This guide will help you navigate the process in 2026 to get your replacement quickly and protect your family (familia).

(English) A professional woman calmly navigating the USCIS online portal on her computer to request a replacement for her lost EAD (Work Permit). The desk features essential documents like a police report (reporte policial) and a checklist, reflecting the organized steps required for a successful application in 2026.

(Español) Una mujer profesional navegando con calma en el portal en línea de USCIS para solicitar un duplicado de su permiso de trabajo (EAD) perdido. El escritorio muestra documentos esenciales como un reporte policial y una lista de verificación, reflejando los pasos organizados necesarios para una solicitud exitosa en 2026.

🚨 Quick Action Plan: What to do NOW

• Report It: File a police report (reporte policial) immediately if stolen.

• Apply: Use Form I-765 to request a replacement.

• Check Online: Use the official USCIS online portal for faster processing.

1. Protect Your Identity (Protege tu identidad)

If your card was stolen, it is crucial to act fast.

• Go to your local police station and file a report (reporte policial).

• This provides official evidence that the loss was involuntary, which is important for your records (registros personales).

2. Request a Replacement (Solicitar un duplicado)

You must apply for a new card using Form I-765.

• Correct Filing: On the form, select the option for "Replacement of lost, stolen, or damaged EAD."

• Fees: Generally, you must pay the filing fee (tarifa de presentación).

• Fee Waiver: If the loss was caused by a U.S. government error, you may request a fee waiver (exención de tarifas).

3. Maintain Employment Eligibility (Elegibilidad de empleo)

While waiting for your new card, stay organized:

• Receipt Notice: Your I-765 receipt notice is proof that your application is in progress. Show this to your employer if needed.

• Stay Secure: Keep all your documents (documentos personales) in a safe place at home to avoid future issues.

4. 2026 Update: Go Digital

USCIS now prioritizes digital submissions.

• Always check USCIS.gov first. Filing online is often faster than sending paper documents by mail.

✅ Summary: Stay Calm & Prepared

Losing a document is stressful, but it is a manageable process.

1. Report the loss.

2. File Form I-765 correctly.

3. Keep your receipts as proof of status.

Guía de Vida en USA is here to support your success. We are your partner for a better life in the U.S.!

[Legal Disclaimer / Aviso Legal]

(English) Note: This information is for general guidance purposes only and does not constitute legal immigration advice. Please consult with a professional attorney or an accredited immigration support organization before making any important legal decisions.

(Español) Nota: Esta información tiene fines de orientación general únicamente y no constituye asesoría legal de inmigración. Por favor, consulte con un abogado profesional o una organización de apoyo a la inmigración acreditada antes de tomar cualquier decisión legal importante.