Lost !-131 re-entry permit

[richab]

Hi guys,

I have been extremely unfortunate in that the baggage containing my re-entry permit got misplaced by the airlines and was never recovered. I cannot come back to the US at this time due to serious personal problems. I am begging the USCIS to issue a duplicate as my application was approved as recently as Nov 2008...but no luck so far. Anybody with similar experience? suggestions?

[cafeconleche]

Well, first of all, I cannot believe you had your RP in your luggage. I keep mine in my pocket at all times when I travel. It's very valuable, more so because getting USCIS to replace it is almost impossible.

When I was abroad, USCIS sent me my RP, but it had an error, so I sent it back to them to get it fixed. While I was waiting, I researched my options in case USCIS took their own sweet time my RP got lost in the post, and they didn't look good. The consulate said they could do NOTHING for me. You may be able to email or call a USCIS/CBP international office. Otherwise, your best bet is to write USCIS a letter and then contact your senators/congressperson for help with the matter.

Good luck.

[mmed]

Originally Posted by richab

Hi guys,

I have been extremely unfortunate in that the baggage containing my re-entry permit got misplaced by the airlines and was never recovered. I cannot come back to the US at this time due to serious personal problems. I am begging the USCIS to issue a duplicate as my application was approved as recently as Nov 2008...but no luck so far. Anybody with similar experience? suggestions?

To the best of my knowedge, no replacement for permit and the only replacement is for GC if lost. But this is a good idea that you separate the permit, passport and GC in separate bags. Anyhow you still have the GC and the only way, from y opinion, is to come back with the GC to apply for another permit. This is part of the game and the tax you pay for being outside the US and keeping the status, just take it easy.

[bestpal]

always keep a copy of your documents. If you lost the originals, you can use the copy to request a replacement. don't know if you can replace RP but maybe if you have a photocopy in hand, you can still try to enter with it at POE. The worse case is they will detain you and verify your records.

[optimum2b]

Sorry to hear about your case ... the airlines eventually find the baggage - try to aggressively pursue it- its strange that it's lost.

Duplicate RP will not be issued. You have to apply for a fresh one. If it has been less than 1 year since you left US, return back using the GC and apply for RP. If it's over 1 year, you need to visit the nearest consulate and request for a transportation letter immediately. I believe the Transportation letter is valid for a short period (15/ 30 days ??) during which time you need to return to the US and apply for RP.

I am quite certain of the information above based on personal experience, however, please contact the consulate and verify.