The Alien Registration Number, or A-Number, is a unique eight-, nine-, or eleven-digit identifier assigned by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to noncitizens. It helps immigration authorities track applications, statuses, and records. This guide explains where to locate the A-Number, what documents typically display it, and steps to obtain it if it is lost or forgotten. Clear, concise steps make it easier to locate and verify this crucial identifier during visa, green card, and naturalization processes.
What Is An Alien Registration Number?
An Alien Registration Number (A-Number) is assigned to noncitizens by the U.S. government. It appears on various immigration documents and is used to manage immigration histories, petitions, and benefits. The A-Number is unique to an individual and remains the same across different USCIS cases. For most records, the A-Number starts with the letter A followed by a sequence of digits, such as A123456789. Knowing the A-Number streamlines case status checks, applications, and correspondence with USCIS and U.S. embassies or consulates.
Where To Find The A-Number On Cards And Documents
Several common documents include the A-Number. Review these carefully to locate the identifier quickly.
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card): The A-Number is typically listed as “A-Number” or “USCIS #” on the front or back of the card, often near the top.
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Card: The A-Number appears as a nine-digit sequence following the letter A, labeled clearly as “A-Number.”
- Immigrant Visa (IR): The A-Number may be included in the visa packet or stamped in the passport or accompanying documents.
- Notice Of Action (Form I-797): Official USCIS correspondence typically lists the A-Number in the top sections of approval notices or requests for evidence.
- Notice To Appear (NTA) or Other Court Documents: In some cases, the A-Number is shown on court-issued immigration documents.
- Passport Biographic Page And I-94: Some travelers’ I-94 arrival/departure records or visa stamps reference the A-Number in electronic records or PDFs.
How To Find The A-Number If You Don’t Have The Documents
If the physical documents are unavailable, there are reliable paths to retrieve the A-Number.
- USCIS Online Account: Create or log into a USCIS online account. Authorized users can view case history and may see the A-Number associated with the account’s petitions.
- USCIS Case Status: Use the case number or receipt number from any USCIS notice to access the case details. Some notices display the A-Number.
- Freedom Of Information Act (FOIA) Request: File a FOIA request to obtain copies of immigration records, which will include the A-Number if present in the files. This process may take several weeks.
- Attorney Or Accredited Representative: An immigration attorney or BIA-accredited representative can access and retrieve the A-Number from case records with proper authorization.
- Notice Of Action From Previous Petitions: If prior petitions or applications were filed, any accompanying notices may contain the A-Number.
Special Considerations For Different Populations
Different groups may encounter variations in where the A-Number appears or how it is used.
- Lawful Permanent Residents: The A-Number typically appears on the green card and I-485 correspondence.
- Nonimmigrant Visa Holders: Students, workers, or visitors may see the A-Number on I-20, DS-2019, or EAD documents when applicable.
- Asylees And Refugees: A-Numbers arise in asylum or refugee-related paperwork and subsequent adjustments of status.
Tips To Avoid Common Mistakes
Correct handling of the A-Number helps prevent delays in immigration processes. Follow these best practices.
- Double-check the A-Number format: Look for the prefix “A” followed by digits (e.g., A123456789). Do not confuse with other identification numbers like a passport number or SSN.
- Store securely: Keep copies of all documents containing the A-Number in a secure, organized location, both digital and physical copies.
- Avoid sharing unnecessarily: Only share the A-Number with trusted entities or authorized representatives to protect privacy and prevent identity misuse.
- Verify the source: When retrieving the A-Number, rely on official USCIS documents or authorized portals to ensure accuracy.
Common Questions About The A-Number
Here are quick answers to frequent inquiries users have about the Alien Registration Number.
- Is the A-Number the same as a Social Security Number? No. The A-Number is immigration-specific, while a SSN is issued by the Social Security Administration for employment and benefits.
- Can I change my A-Number? No. The A-Number is unique and assigned to an individual; it does not change with status changes.
- What if I cannot locate my A-Number? Use a FOIA request or contact an immigration attorney to help retrieve it from official records.
- Will USCIS provide my A-Number over the phone? For privacy reasons, USCIS typically requires account verification or written requests; the online portal is often the fastest method.