Where to Find Your Alien Registration Number

What do I use my Alien Registration Number for?

The Alien Registration Number, commonly referred to as the A-Number, is a unique identifier assigned to certain noncitizens by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It is primarily used to track and manage an individual's immigration records across various U.S. immigration agencies.

Where to Find Your A-Number:

Permanent Resident Card (Green Card): The A-Number is located on the front of the Permanent Resident Card, also known as Form I-551.
Correspondence from DHS or USCIS: The A-Number can be found on official letters or notices received from the Department of Homeland Security or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Immigration Documents: It may also appear on other immigration documents such as the Notice to Appear in immigration court or on any hearing or judgment notices issued by the immigration court.

Uses of the A-Number:

Identification of Immigration Records: The A-Number is used to identify and manage all files related to an individual’s immigration history. It helps in correlating records across different immigration agencies such as USCIS, ICE, CBP, EOIR, and DOS.
Tracking Immigration Status: It is used to track the status of applications and petitions filed with immigration authorities.
Immigration Proceedings: The A-Number is crucial in immigration court proceedings and is used to track cases and decisions.

The A-Number is a critical component of the U.S. immigration system, serving as a unique identifier for noncitizens. It is typically a seven- to nine-digit number, and if it has fewer than nine digits, zeros are added at the beginning to make it a nine-digit number.

A-Number on the EAD:

The Alien Registration Number (A-Number) appears on the Employment Authorization Document (EAD). It is typically printed on the front of the EAD card, which is issued by USCIS to noncitizens who are authorized to work in the United States.

The Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as Form I-766 and colloquially called a work permit, is a critical document for noncitizens seeking employment in the U.S. It not only provides proof of work authorization but also includes the A-Number, which serves as a unique identifier for the individual.

A-Number in E-Verify:

The A-Number is requested in the E-Verify system. Employers participating in E-Verify use the A-Number, along with other information, to verify the employment eligibility of their employees. The A-Number is entered into the Document Number field on Form I-9 and subsequently used in E-Verify to confirm the employee's work authorization status.

In the context of E-Verify, the A-Number plays a significant role. E-Verify is an internet-based system that allows employers to confirm the eligibility of their employees to work in the United States. When an employer creates a case in E-Verify, they use the A-Number from the employee's Form I-9 to verify their work authorization. This process helps ensure that the employee is legally permitted to work in the U.S. and that the employer is compliant with immigration laws [4][5].

The A-Number is issued to individuals who apply for, or are granted, certain immigration benefits, including permanent residency. It is also assigned to individuals who have been placed in removal or deportation proceedings

The Alien Registration Number is an essential tool for managing and tracking immigration records in the United States. It is found on various immigration documents and is used by multiple agencies to ensure accurate record-keeping and processing of immigration-related matters.

You can find your Alien Registration Number (A-Number) in several places, depending on your immigration status and the documents you have received. Here are the common locations where you might find your A-Number:

Permanent Resident Card (Green Card): Your A-Number is located on your Permanent Resident Card, also known as a Green Card. It typically begins with an "A" followed by seven to nine digits.
USCIS Correspondence: The A-Number can be found on correspondence you have received from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or USCIS. This includes notices, letters, and other official documents.
Immigration Documents: If you have applied for or been granted certain immigration benefits, your A-Number may appear on forms such as Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) or Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative).
Form I-551: The A-Number appears on the front of Form I-551, which is your Permanent Resident Card.
Other Government Agencies: In addition to USCIS, other agencies such as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), and the U.S. Department of State (DOS) may issue an A-Number to certain individuals.

Your Alien Registration Number can be found on your Permanent Resident Card, USCIS correspondence, immigration forms, and documents from other government agencies. If you do not have an A-Number, you should leave the relevant field blank or enter "N/A" as instructed on immigration forms.

Your A-Number is an essential identifier that you'll need for various immigration processes. Here's how you'll use it:

For applying for immigration benefits

Your A-Number serves as your unique identifier throughout the U.S. immigration system. It connects you to all your immigration records and history in the USCIS database. Whenever you submit applications for immigration benefits—whether you're applying for a green card, seeking asylum, or requesting work authorization—you'll need to include your A-Number on all forms.

This number helps USCIS quickly access your file and process your application efficiently. Think of it as your personal ID number within the immigration system that follows you through every step of your journey.

For tracking the status of your case

When you want to check where your application stands in the processing queue, your A-Number is the key that unlocks this information. You can use it to:

Check your case status online through the USCIS website
Make inquiries about your case over the phone
Reference your application when speaking with immigration officials

Having your A-Number readily available saves time and helps you get accurate information about your case status whenever you need it.

For identification when dealing with USCIS

Whenever you communicate with USCIS—whether by phone, email, or in person—you'll likely need to provide your A-Number for identification purposes. Immigration officers use this number to pull up your records and verify your identity.

This identification process helps protect your privacy and ensures that only you (or your authorized representative) can access or modify your immigration information.

When employers use E-Verify to confirm your work eligibility, your A-Number is one of the key pieces of information they'll need to enter into the system.

For applying for government benefits

If you're eligible for certain government benefits as a lawful permanent resident or other qualified immigrant, you may need to provide your A-Number during the application process. This helps government agencies verify your immigration status and eligibility.

For maintaining your immigration status

Your A-Number will follow you throughout your immigration journey in the U.S. If you need to:

Renew your green card
Apply for a reentry permit
File for naturalization
Update your address with USCIS

You'll need your A-Number for all these processes. It's the thread that connects all your interactions with the immigration system.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alien Registration Numbers

Can my Alien Registration Number change?

Usually not. Once USCIS assigns you an A-Number, it remains yours throughout your entire immigration journey, including when you become a U.S. citizen if that's your goal. This consistency makes it easier to track your immigration history and prevents confusion in your records.

It is possible for someone to have multiple Alien Registration Numbers (A-Numbers), although it is not supposed to happen.

Assignment of A-Numbers: An A-Number is a unique seven-, eight-, or nine-digit number assigned to a noncitizen by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or the Department of State (DOS). It is typically assigned when an immigrant petition or application for adjustment of status is filed, or if the person has been issued an immigrant visa or placed in removal or deportation proceedings.

Multiple A-Numbers: While a person is not supposed to be assigned more than one A-Number, it sometimes happens due to administrative errors. In such cases, all A-Numbers assigned to the person should be listed, with any additional A-Numbers being included in the addendum to the relevant form.

Resolution of Multiple A-Numbers: If a person has been mistakenly assigned more than one A-Number, it is advisable to list all the A-Numbers on immigration forms and notify the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) to have the records consolidated under one A-Number.

While it is not normal, a person can have multiple A-Numbers due to errors. It is important to list all A-Numbers on immigration forms and seek to have them consolidated.

What's the difference between an A-Number and a USCIS number?

While these two terms are often used interchangeably, they're actually the same number. On newer green cards (issued after May 2010), what used to be called the "Alien Registration Number" is now labeled as the "USCIS number" on the front of the card. However, the back of the card still refers to it as the "Alien Registration Number." Despite the different names, they're identical numbers that serve the same purpose.

What if I can't find my A-Number?

If you can't locate your A-Number on any of your documents, you have several options:

Review all your immigration paperwork, especially any notices from USCIS
Check any receipts for applications you've submitted
Look at your EAD card or green card if you have one
Contact USCIS directly through their Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283
Schedule an InfoPass appointment at your local USCIS office
Submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to obtain copies of your immigration records

Is my A-Number the same as my I-94 number?

No, your A-Number and I-94 number are completely different. The I-94 number is assigned to you when you enter the United States and appears on your Arrival/Departure Record. This number changes each time you enter the country. Your A-Number, on the other hand, remains constant throughout your immigration process.

Do all immigrants receive an A-Number?

Not all immigrants receive an A-Number immediately. Typically, you'll get an A-Number when you:

Apply for permanent residence (green card)
Apply for certain benefits that require work authorization
Apply for asylum or refugee status
Are placed in removal proceedings

Many temporary visa holders (like H-1B workers, tourists or business visitors) don't receive an A-Number unless they apply for immigration benefits that require one.

H-4 visa holders, who are dependents of H-1B visa holders, may or may not receive an Alien Registration Number (A-Number) depending on their specific immigration circumstances. Generally, an A-Number is assigned to noncitizens who apply for certain immigration benefits or are involved in immigration proceedings.

H-4 visa holders typically do not receive an A-Number simply by virtue of holding an H-4 visa. The A-Number is usually assigned when an individual applies for an immigration benefit such as adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident (Green Card) or if they are involved in removal or deportation proceedings.

If an H-4 spouse applies for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) under certain conditions, they may be assigned an A-Number as part of that process.

Circumstances Leading to a Nonimmigrant being Assigned An A-Number:

Filing for Adjustment of Status: If you file Form I-485 to adjust status to that of a lawful permanent resident, you will be assigned an A-Number.
Involvement in Immigration Proceedings: If you are placed in removal proceedings, you will be assigned an A-Number.

How long does my A-Number remain valid?

Your A-Number remains valid indefinitely, even after you become a U.S. citizen. Though you'll use it less frequently after naturalization, it remains a permanent part of your immigration record and history with USCIS.

Can I use my A-Number to check my case status online?

Yes, you can use your A-Number along with your receipt number to check your case status through the USCIS online portal. This allows you to track the progress of your application and stay informed about any updates or additional requirements.

Remember to keep your A-Number secure and accessible, as you'll need it for virtually all your interactions with the U.S. immigration system. Noting it along with your other important immigration materials will save you time and stress throughout your immigration journey.

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