Everything You Need To Know About An Alien Registration Number

autohr img By Vipul Jain
22 Jan, 2025

When completing the US immigration process. You might hear about the term Alien Registration Number or an A-number. It is an identifier that plays a crucial role. In managing immigration records or tracking applications. What exactly is an A-number, who gets an Alien registration number and why is it important? In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about this number. Such as its use, how to find it, and why is it important for immigrants in the US. Let's first understand what is an Alien Registration Number.

What Is An Alien Registration Number?

An Alien Registration is a seven to nine-digit number. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Gives it to the immigrants who apply to live in the USA. It is also known as an A-number, Alien Number, or USCIS number. The A-number helps the USCIS to track your immigration files. Which are sometimes called alien files or a-files.

It is an important key to accessing various immigration services and benefits when you are in the US. This number helps to keep track of your immigration history and interactions. The A-number is an essential piece of information. That you must keep handy when opting for any immigration-related services.

Types of Alien Numbers

Most of the Alien Registration numbers (A-numbers) have nine-digit numbers. There are some situations where they may have fewer digits. If your A-number has less than nine digits then you can add a zero (0) between the "A" and the first digit.

This way you can make sure that it is a complete nine-digit number. For example, if the number is "33445566", you need to add "A033445566' to make it a nine-digit number.

Importance of an A-number

The A-number is essential during the whole immigration process. It helps the government to track a person's immigration history and status. Throughout their life in the US. An Alien Registration Number serves as an important identifier for a lot of reasons such as:

Importance of an A-number

Legal Identification

The A-number acts as an official government-issued identifier for non-citizens. It is more like a Social Security Number (SSN) for US citizens. It helps in streamlining the communication between various immigration agencies.

Immigration Case Management

It helps the USCIS. In Immigration, Customs Enforcement, and Executive Officer in Immigration Review (EOIR). It helps to manage case records and legal proceedings.

Tracking the Application

The US government uses the A-number to keep track. On every individual's immigration applications, petitions, and case studies. You can find this number on some important documents. Like green cards, employment authorization cards, and visa paperwork.

Verifying the Eligibility

Some government agencies and employers may use the A-number to verify one's work. Eligibility, social security benefits, and other federal services.

An Alien Registration Number is very important for managing documents. Applying for immigration benefits, and keeping track of immigration forms and petitions. So, one must keep it safe and provide it only when it is necessary.

Where Can I Find My Alien Registration Number?

Finding your A-number is very easy if you know where to look for it. When you apply to be a permanent US resident, your A-number will be on almost every document that USCIS sends you. On most of the paperwork, you can find your Alien Registration Number on the top of the page labeled as "A#". Here are some examples of some of the most common documents where you can find your A-number.

Employment Authorization Document

You can find your A-number on your Employment Authorization Document (EAD). It is also known as work permit or work authorization. It is mention below the USCIS#. In the example given below, the A-number is “ 000-000-811” beneath the USCIS.

“000-000-811” beneath the USCIS#

Permanent Resident Green Card

If you have a permanent resident card or a green card. Which is issue by the USCIS after 10th May 2010 then you can find your A-number on that. Your Alien Registration Number will be on the front side. It will placed within the characters on the backside. In the below example, the A-number is in the form of “000-001-001” underneath the USCIS.

"000-001-001” underneath the USCIS#

Below is a sample green card issued by the USCIS between the years 2004 and May 10, 2010. The Alien Registration Number on this card is mention as “000-000-000” next to A.

“000-000-000” next to A#

Immigrant Visa

If you do not have any other ID cards from the USCIS, you can find the A-number on an Immigrant visa. Your immigrant visa is also known as a visa stamp or visa foil and you can find it in your passport. Your A-number is "Registration Number" in the top part of your visa stamp.

Immigrant Visa "Registration Number"

Note: The picture above is an immigrant visa. It is different than a nonimmigrant visa. A non-immigrant visa does not have an Alien Registration Number.

USCIS Immigrant Fee Handout

The USCIS Immigrant Fee is a document from USCIS that instructs you how to pay your USCIS immigrant fee. If you have applied for a consular Green card. You must have received this document. When attending your interview at the US embassy or consulate. You will be able to find the A-number in the top right corner of the free handout. As shown below in the picture:

USCIS Immigrant Fee Handout

Immigrant Data Summary

If you have applied for a green card from abroad through consular processing. Then you can find your A-number on the Immigrant Data Summary. It is the first page of your immigrant visa package from the USCIS. Your A-number will be right at the top of the Data Summary as shown in the picture below:

Immigrant Data Summary

Notice of Action

Some versions of the Notice of Action may contain the A-number. It is available in the I-797C (biometrics notice). If your form contains your Alien Registration Number. Then it will the under the “USCIS#” at the top/right side of the document. See the picture below to get an idea:

Form I-797C, Notice of Action

Your A-number is very important, so you must know where to find it and how to identify it. These are some of the documents where you can find your A-number.

Who is Eligible For An A-Number?

An individual who applies for a green card is eligible to get an Alien Registration Number. The A-number is necessary for everyone. Currently lives or wishes to settle in the United States. Your eligibility for an A-number will not determine the type of green card. Applicant has a family, refugee, employment, and more. If you are visiting the US to stay forever, you will get an A-number.

Along with those who have an immigrant visa. F-1 student visa holders are eligible to get an Alien Registration Number. Despise the fact that they are neither in the US as a green card holder nor they are applying for green cards.

Individuals Not Eligible For An A-Number?

People who are temporary non-immigrant visa recipients are not eligible for an A-number. The shorter-term stays in the US do not need a document that asks for an A-number. Here also the only exception is individuals holding F-1 student visas.

When Am I Eligible to Get An Alien Registration Number?

The timeline to get an Alien Registration Number is quick. Most of the people get their A-number when they apply for a green card. If you apply for a green card in any of the below-mentioned situations. Then you may get an Alien Registration Number in other forms:

  • Married to a citizen of the U.S.
  • Worked under the Optical Practical training program.
  • Applying for a marriage green card while staying outside the United States.

If you are already married to a US citizen. Then you will get an alien number in about a month. After filing your green card application form which is approximately 30 days. If you haven’t started your green card process yet then you must do these things first:

  • Petition for Form I-130 petition for an alien relative
  • Once your form gets approved, you need to apply for an immigrant visa. You need to apply under a category for which you qualify.
  • You need to then file your USCIS Form I-485, fixing of status. 

If you have worked under the Optical Practical training program. Then there is another process for that also. If you are already an F-1 student visa holder and have work authorization. Then you like to have an Alien number already. 

Are you applying for a marriage green card from outside the United States? then you will get your Alien Registration number at your consular interview. You will attend this interview at your country’s US consulate.

Remember that if you are applying for a marriage green card. While already staying in the US. Then you can find your Alien Registration number in your receipt notice.

Visa Application

Purpose Of An Alien Registration Number

The A-number is important for several reasons. You need your A-number to submit some required forms and track your application. By this, you will get extra immigration benefits. There are more reasons why you need an Alien Registration number such as:

To Get Immigration Benefits

A-number plays a crucial role in many sides of your interaction with US immigration. It acts as your unique identifier. It links you to your immigration records and history. Whenever you apply for immigration benefits. Like a green card or asylum, you will get your A-number on the application forms.

For Tracking The Status Of Your Case

Your Alien Registration number is also important. For tracking the status of your immigration case online. Look for a response about your application or tracking status of your immigration. Your A-number permits you to get all the information. About your case through the USCIS website or by contacting the office.

To Access Other Services And Benefits In The United States

It acts as a key when you are interacting with other government agencies. Trying to get access to some services and benefits. Remember it as your official identity proof that allows you to stay in the US. You may need your A-number when applying for a driver’s license, and a social security number. Also, any other necessary documents that you may need to handle your business in the US.

On condition if you lose your passport, green card, or visa

Having a photo of your visa, green card, and A-number is always a good idea if you lose the originals. Knowing your US alien registration number. Will make ease the process of recovering your documents and showing your eligibility.

The most basic purpose of your A-number is that it works as your main form of identification. These are some of the main purposes where you can use your Alien Registration Number.

Difference Between An A-number and a USCIS Number?

Is the USCIS the same as an A-number? Many people want to know the answer to this question. So, The A-number is different from your USCIS case number. The A number USCIS and USCIS case numbers help to track matters related to immigration. Use these numbers for different purposes. USCIS assigns this for different steps of the immigration process.

Your A-number is a unique identifier is assign by the USCIS to an individual. They can use it for tracking their immigration cases. It helps to track the status of your application and immigration history.

Additionally, your USCIS case number is specific. For every application or petition that you submit to USCIS. It is mention in your case when you file an application or petition. The USCIS uses it to track and manage the processing of your particular case.

Find the USCIS number on the official USCIS correspondence to your application. Like receipt notices, approval notices, and requests for extra evidence.

You can tell the difference between your A-number and your USCIS case number. By looking at the number of digits. Your A-number has either 7, 8, or 9 digits. The USCIS case number will have 3 letters followed by 10 numbers so in total it will have 13 characters.

What To Do If I Lose My Alien Registration Number?

If you lose your Alien registration number, you don’t need to panic. There are some ways with which you can find your Alien Registration Number with ease. Here is what you can do if you lose your A-number:

  1. First, you must check your documents. You need to check any paperwork that you have related to your immigration status. You can find your A-number on various documents. Such as your green card, Employment Authorization Document, or previous notices from USCIS.
  2. If you are not able to find your A-number on any document, don’t stress. You have the option to contact USCIS for help. You have to provide personal information and details related to your immigration history. It will help them in locating your Alien Registration Number.
  3. You also get the option to request a replacement. The USCIS can issue a replacement A-number if they think it is necessary. They will guide you through the process. You may need to fill out a form or submit some supporting documents to verify your identity.

You can even hire an attorney to help you with sending a letter to the USCIS. They can also assist you in restoring your Alien Registration Number.

Once you get your A-number again, ensure to keep it safe. You may need it in the future for any interactions with USCIS. Other government agencies related to your immigration status.

Get Help From Visament

Immigration services can be daunting and stressful. The procedures and laws keep changing. Can be tough to understand for some individuals. The immigration requirements can be strict. Sometimes it can be hard to complete without the help of a professional. Visament is one of the most trusted websites by people. When they face difficulties related to their immigration services.

They have a team of professionals. Help to avoid mistakes, save time, and increase the chances of approval. Save you a lot of time and can assist you with visa, OCI, passport, or any immigration-related service. Along with that, they provide guidance throughout the process. Related to specific requirements, documents, and processes for your application. You get to enjoy your journey without stressing as they handle your paperwork. So, what are you waiting for, contact the Visament team now and get top-notch services.

Frequently Asked Questions

An Alien Registration Number or an A-number is a unique number given to noncitizens by the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services). It is an important piece of information that is required to access immigration services and benefits in the United States. It is used to track immigration records, keep records of immigration history and interactions with USCIS, etc.

No, the Alien Registration Number is not the same as Form I-94. The A-number is a unique number issued by the USCIS. You can find your A-number on your green card which is also known as Form I-551. In contrast, Form I-94 is an 11-digit admission record that proves a nonimmigrant’s legal entry into the US.

No, your Alien Registration Number (A-number) will not expire. Once you get an A-number from the USCIS it will be valid for a lifetime. It is like your personal ID in the US immigration system. However, it is important to check the expiry date of other documents like green cards, or visas. These documents may expire and you need to renew them to maintain your legal status in the US.

No, the Social Security Number (SSN) is not the same as an A-number. The SSN is issued by the government to eligible immigrant workers in the US who apply for it. Alternatively, USCIS issues an A-number to immigrants who apply to stay permanently in the US. A lot of immigrant workers have both an A-number and a Social Security Number.

You can find the A-number on a green card on both the front and back of the card. It is a 7,8, or 9-digit number that is different from your SSN. On the green card issued after 10th May 2010, the A-number is on the front of the card next to the picture. On older green cards issued between the years 2004 and 2010, the A-number is labeled as “A#”.

No, the USCIS Online Account Number is not the same thing as an A-number. The A-number is a nine-digit number used by the USCIS to track all the immigrants who are applying for permanent status in the US. Whereas, the USCIS online account number is only given if you choose to create an account online and acts as an extra way to help USCIS track your application.

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