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“Card Was Returned To USCIS”on your I-765 · Work permit (EAD)

Your EAD card is back at USCIS because it could not be delivered.
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WHICH STEP ARE YOU ON?
Receipt notice
Biometrics (if required)
Decision
Card produced and mailed · here

What to do, in 4 steps

Update your address with USCIS (Form AR-11 and your case).
Contact USCIS to request that the card be re-mailed.
Act quickly before the card may be destroyed.
If it was destroyed, ask how to get a replacement.
letter
Your deadlineThe one on your letter. Do not miss it.
In this statusUSCIS holds returned cards for a limited time, so act within days, not months.

What it means for your I-765

Your EAD card is back at USCIS because it could not be delivered. Without it, you cannot show the card to an employer. Make sure your address is correct with USCIS, then contact them to request that the card be mailed again.

In general, on any form:

Your card was returned to USCIS because it could not be delivered. USCIS holds returned cards for a limited time. You need to contact USCIS and confirm your correct address. Your approval is not affected.

Avoid these mistakes

Assuming USCIS will re-mail it on its own.
Waiting months to call.

Quick questions

What does "Card Was Returned To USCIS" mean on an I-765?

Your EAD card is back at USCIS because it could not be delivered. Without it, you cannot show the card to an employer. Make sure your address is correct with USCIS, then contact them to request that the card be mailed again.

How do I get my returned card?

Update your address and contact USCIS to request that it be mailed again.

How long will USCIS keep my card?

For a limited time. After that, it may be destroyed and you may need a replacement.

Do I have to pay again?

Not usually if the card is re-mailed. A replacement may have a fee depending on the reason.

How long does an I-765 take?

The typical range published by USCIS is 14 to 17 months. It depends on the office and your case; it is not an exact date.

Other statuses of your I-765

Every status of an I-765 →

This same status on other forms

AI-assisted explanation based on the official USCIS status, reviewed by CaseAlerta. Not legal advice. Times are typical ranges, never an exact date.