What Is an Alien Registration Number and Where Do I Find It?

What Is an Alien Registration Number and Where Do I Find It?

When navigating the complex US immigration system, one term you’ll often encounter is the Alien Registration Number — commonly referred to as the A-Number. This unique identifier appears on various official documents such as Green Cards and visas, and is used to track immigration records throughout your journey.

Whether you’re applying for a green card, employment authorization document, or other immigration benefits, this nine-digit number is a crucial part of your immigration journey, and alien registration numbers are assigned to individuals navigating the immigration system.

If you have questions about adjusting your immigration status, call us today at (619) 746-8879

Key Takeaways

• The Alien Registration Number (A-Number) is a permanent identifier assigned by USCIS that stays with an immigrant throughout their entire US immigration journey and is required for most major immigration processes.
• You can find your A-Number on a variety of immigration documents, including Green Cards, work permits, visa stamps, and approval notices—making it important to check multiple places if you’re unsure where it is.
• The A-Number itself never expires, although the documents it appears on (such as EADs or visas) may have expiration dates and require renewal. If your A-Number has fewer than nine digits, add a zero after the ‘A’ and before the first digit to ensure it is properly formatted as a nine-digit number.

What Is an Alien Registration Number?

The Alien Registration Number, or A-Number, is a unique identifier assigned by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to non-citizens who are applying for or have received immigration benefits. Think of it as your permanent ID within the immigration system, similar to how the Social Security number works for US citizens.

A-Numbers are unique to each individual non-citizen and remain the same throughout their interactions with the immigration system.

This number is vital for tracking your immigration case, filing immigration forms, and corresponding with immigration services. While your A-Number stays the same, different USCIS case numbers are assigned to each specific application or petition you file, such as for a Green Card or citizenship, and these USCIS case numbers are distinct from your A-Number.

You’ll need your A-Number to access your USCIS case number, make a FOIA request (Freedom of Information Act), or check the status of your green card application form, work permit, or immigrant visa. The Internal Revenue Service uses the Social Security Number for tax purposes, which is different from the Alien Registration Number.

Where Can I Find My Alien Registration Number?

You can find your alien registration number on several official immigration documents, depending on your status and the type of benefit you’ve applied for:

• Green Card (Permanent Resident Card): On the first page, the A-Number is typically listed as “USCIS#”.
• Employment Authorization Document (EAD): Also known as a work permit, your A-Number is listed under “USCIS#.” The EAD number, found under ‘Card#’, is different from the Alien Registration Number and should not be confused with the A-Number.
• Immigrant Visa Stamp: If you entered through consular processing, check your visa stamp in your passport or your immigrant visa package. The alien number usually appears as “Registration Number”.
• Approval Notice (Form I-797): Look for the number next to “A-Number” or “USCIS Number”.
• Immigrant Data Summary: Received during the consular interview process, it includes your A-Number.
• USCIS Immigrant Fee Handout: Provided during visa issuance, this often contains your A-Number and instructions on paying the immigrant fee.
• Other Immigration Documents: These include any receipt notice, supporting documents, or USCIS documents related to your application process.

Does an Alien Registration Number Expire?

The alien registration number itself does not expire. It is assigned once and stays with you throughout your entire immigration journey.

However, some documents displaying the number (like the EAD or visa) do have expiration dates and may need to be renewed. If you later become a US citizen, your A-Number remains a part of your immigration files for recordkeeping purposes.

Checking the Status of Your Alien Registration

Staying informed about the progress of your alien registration is crucial for a smooth immigration journey. To check the status of your registration number or any related application, you can use the USCIS Case Status Online tool by entering your A-Number and other identifying details.

This online resource provides real-time updates on your case, helping you track important milestones and avoid unnecessary delays. If you prefer, you can also call the USCIS National Customer Service Center or visit your local USCIS office for personalized assistance.

Always have your A-Number handy when making inquiries, as it’s the key to accessing your records and ensuring your case is moving forward within the immigration system.

Locating a Lost Alien Registration Number

If you’ve misplaced your Alien Registration Number, don’t worry—there are several ways to find your A-Number. Start by checking your official immigration documents, such as your Green Card, employment authorization document (EAD), immigrant visa, or any approval notices and receipt notices you’ve received from USCIS.

The A-Number often appears as “USCIS#” or “Registration Number” on these forms. If you still can’t find your registration number, you can submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to USCIS to obtain a copy of your immigration file, which will include your A-Number.

For additional help, contact the USCIS National Customer Service Center, where representatives can guide you through the process to find your A-Number and ensure your immigration documents are in order.

Applying for a Replacement Alien Registration Number

If your Alien Registration Number has been lost or is no longer accessible, you’ll need to request a replacement through USCIS. Begin by gathering proof of your identity and current immigration status, as these will be required to verify your eligibility.

You can submit your request online or by mail, following the instructions provided by USCIS, and pay any applicable fees. Once your application is processed, USCIS will issue a new registration number and mail it to you.

Keeping your A-Number accurate and up to date is essential for maintaining your immigration status and accessing important benefits, so be sure to update your records promptly if you receive a new number.

Verifying an Alien Registration Number

Ensuring that your Alien Registration Number is correct and active is an important step in managing your immigration status. You can verify your A-Number by contacting USCIS directly or using the Case Status Online tool on the USCIS website.

Simply enter your registration number and other identifying information to confirm your status and track your application’s progress. Additionally, review your immigration documents—such as your Green Card or employment authorization document—to make sure your A-Number matches across all records.

Regularly verifying your A-Number helps prevent issues with your immigration benefits and ensures your records are accurate within the immigration system.

Getting Help with Alien Registration

If you have questions or need assistance with your alien registration, there are several resources available to support you. You can reach out to the USCIS National Customer Service Center or visit a local USCIS office for direct help with your A-Number, immigration status, or any other immigration documents.

Consulting with an immigration expert or attorney can also provide valuable guidance throughout the application process. The USCIS website offers a wealth of information, including forms, instructions, and frequently asked questions about alien registration.

If you need to access your immigration file or confirm your A-Number, submitting a FOIA request is another helpful option. Always keep your A-Number and supporting documents secure, as they are essential for your immigration journey and eligibility for other immigration benefits.

Who Gets an Alien Registration Number?

USCIS assigns an A-Number to:

• Applicants for a Green Card or permanent residency (permanent residents and Green Card holders receive an A-Number)
• Those applying for work authorization or employment authorization
• Recipients of a marriage-based Green Card or marriage Green Card
• Individuals applying through consular processing
• Certain nonimmigrant visa holders adjusting status
• Anyone undergoing processing by the Department of Homeland Security or by an immigration officer (an immigration officer may provide important documents containing the A-Number during the application process)

The A-Number is assigned during the filing of a specific application, such as a Green Card or work permit.

One exception is for some temporary visa holders or visitors who may not receive an A-Number unless they later adjust status.

Understanding your Alien Registration Number is key to managing your immigration journey. From the Green Card application to work authorization and beyond, this small but powerful nine-digit number is the backbone of your path to permanent residency and possibly, one day, US citizenship.

Have questions about your A-Number or where to find it? Contact your local USCIS office or consult with qualified immigration experts for personalized guidance. Kannan Law is ready to advise you. Contact us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can two people have the same Alien Registration Number?

No. The A-Number is a unique nine-digit identifier assigned to one individual only. USCIS uses it to distinguish each person’s immigration history, ensuring there is no overlap in records.

Is an A-Number required for filing taxes or getting a Social Security Number?

Not directly. While the A-Number may be included on certain immigration forms used to apply for a Social Security Number or to verify employment eligibility for tax purposes, it is not required by the IRS. Instead, your Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) will be used for tax filings.

What should I do if my A-Number is incorrect on a USCIS document?

If you notice that your A-Number is incorrect or mismatched on any USCIS-issued documents, you should file a correction request with USCIS immediately. This can typically be done by contacting USCIS through your online account or submitting a request through the appropriate form, such as Form I-90 for green card corrections.