An Alien Registration Number (also known as an A-number, A#, or USCIS number) is a unique identification number assigned to immigrants who are applying for permanent residency (a green card) in the United States. This number is used by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to track immigration petitions and forms for each person. It’s a lifelong number, meaning once assigned, you will keep it for the rest of your life.
Who Gets an Alien Registration Number?
An Alien Registration Number is given to anyone who applies for a green card, whether through family sponsorship, employment, or refugee status. If you’re planning to live permanently in the U.S., you will receive an A-number.
Exceptions:
- Most temporary visitors like tourists or business visa holders don’t get an Alien Registration Number because they’re not applying for permanent residency.
- However, F-1 student visa holders who get work authorization (for example, through the Optional Practical Training program) may be assigned an A-number even if they’re not applying for a green card.
When Do I Get an Alien Registration Number?
Typically, you receive your Alien Registration Number when you apply for a green card. However, if you have already received work authorization on an F-1 student visa, you may already have your A-number.
- For marriage-based green card applications from within the U.S., your A-number will appear on the USCIS receipt notice after you file Form I-485.
- For marriage-based green card applications from outside the U.S., your A-number will be assigned during your consular interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. It will be noted in the immigrant visa stamped in your passport.
Where Can I Find My Alien Registration Number?
Once you’ve applied for a green card, your Alien Registration Number will appear on most documents USCIS sends you, such as your receipt notice or approval letters. You’ll see it labeled as “A#” at the top of the form.
- If you applied from outside the U.S., you can find your A-number on documents such as the Immigrant Data Summary and the USCIS Immigrant Fee handout from your consular interview.
- On your green card, your A-number (labeled “USCIS#”) will be on both the front and back.
What If I Lose My Alien Registration Number?
If you’ve lost track of your Alien Registration Number, you can obtain it by using the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) system to request a copy of your immigration file. Alternatively, you can contact USCIS or schedule an appointment at your local office for assistance.
Alien Registration Number vs. USCIS Case Number
It’s important to note that your Alien Registration Number is different from your USCIS case number (also called your receipt number).
- A-number: This is a lifelong identifier assigned to you, a person.
- Case number: This is assigned to a specific application or petition, and each application will have a different case number. You can track your application status online using the case number.
Both numbers appear on USCIS documents, but they are used for different purposes.
Can I Confuse My Alien Registration Number with Other Numbers?
The Alien Registration Number should not be confused with the Social Security Number (SSN) or the I-94 admission record number.
- SSN: Used for tax and income tracking by the U.S. government, and can be applied for when you file for a work permit or green card.
- I-94 number: Used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to track entries into the U.S. It is different from your A-number.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do DACA recipients get an Alien Registration Number?
Yes, if you are a DACA recipient, you will likely have an A-number. If you’re renewing DACA, you will need this number for your application.
Is the Alien Registration Number the same as Form I-94?
No, the I-94 number is used by CBP to track entries into the U.S., while the A-number is assigned to individuals for immigration purposes.
What’s an Alien Registration Card?
An Alien Registration Card is simply another name for your green card (Form I-551), which shows your status as a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. Your A-number will appear on this card.
Is my Alien Registration Number on my passport?
If you applied for a green card from outside the U.S., your A-number will be in the immigrant visa stamp placed in your passport during your consular interview.
Will my Alien Registration Number expire?
No, once assigned, your A-number is permanent. However, your green card may need to be renewed every 10 years unless you’re a conditional permanent resident.
Where can I find my Alien Registration Number on my Employment Authorization Document (EAD)?
Your A-number will be on the front of your EAD card, beneath the label USCIS#.
Your Alien Registration Number is an essential part of your U.S. immigration journey. It helps track your status, applications, and petitions. If you ever need assistance or guidance with your immigration process, Law and Visas is here to help. Our team of experts can guide you through the process and ensure everything is in order. Reach out for support with your green card application or any other immigration concerns!
