For non-U.S. citizens navigating the immigration system, understanding key identification numbers is crucial. One such identifier is the Alien Registration Number (A-Number), a unique seven-to-nine-digit number issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to certain noncitizens. This number plays a significant role in immigration paperwork, tracking applications, and verifying legal status.
Understanding the Alien Registration Number (A-Number)
The Alien Registration Number (A-Number) is assigned to non-U.S. citizens by USCIS or other immigration authorities. It is used to identify and track immigrants’ records throughout their interactions with the U.S. immigration system.
Who Gets an A-Number?
Not every noncitizen receives an A-Number. The following categories of individuals typically receive one:
- Permanent Residents (Green Card holders)
- Certain nonimmigrants with pending immigration applications
- People applying for work permits (EAD – Employment Authorization Document)
- Asylum seekers and refugees
- Individuals in deportation proceedings
Where to Find Your A-Number
If you have been assigned an A-Number, you can find it on various immigration documents, such as:
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card): Located on the front under “USCIS#” (for cards issued after May 10, 2010).
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD): Listed under “USCIS#.”
- Immigration Court Notices: Found on documents from the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR).
- Visa and Travel Documents: May appear on certain visa stamps or paperwork.
- Approval Notices from USCIS: If you’ve applied for an immigration benefit, your A-Number might be listed on approval notices or correspondences.
Difference Between A-Number and USCIS Case Number
Many people confuse the A-Number with the USCIS Case Number, but they serve different purposes:
- The A-Number is a unique identifier assigned to individuals.
- The USCIS Case Number tracks a specific immigration application or petition and begins with three letters (e.g., SRC, LIN, EAC, etc.).
Importance of the A-Number
Your A-Number is crucial for various immigration-related processes, including:
- Filing for Adjustment of Status (Green Card Applications)
- Applying for Work Permits
- Completing Naturalization (Citizenship) Applications
- Checking Case Status with USCIS
- Ensuring Accurate Record-Keeping within the immigration system
How to Protect Your A-Number
Since your A-Number is tied to sensitive immigration information, it should be kept secure. Here are some tips to protect it:
- Do not share your A-Number with unauthorized individuals.
- Store physical immigration documents in a safe place.
- If reporting immigration fraud or seeking legal advice, ensure you’re working with accredited professionals.
What If You Lose Your A-Number?
If you misplace your A-Number, you can retrieve it by:
- Checking previous immigration paperwork (approval notices, green cards, or EADs).
- Contacting USCIS through their customer service hotline.
- Filing a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to obtain your immigration records.
FAQs
- What is an Alien Registration Number (A-Number)?
A unique 7-9 digit identifier assigned to non-citizens in U.S. immigration processes. - Where can I find my A-Number?
On documents like green cards, work permits (EAD), immigrant visas, or USCIS notices (e.g., I-797). - What’s the format of an A-Number?
Typically 8 or 9 digits (e.g., A123-456-789). Older versions may start with an “A” followed by 8-9 digits. - Does every immigrant or non-immigrant have an A-Number?
No—only those in specific immigration processes (e.g., green card applicants, visa holders). - Is an A-Number required for a green card application?
Yes, but USCIS assigns one automatically if you don’t already have it. - What if I lose my A-Number?
Retrieve it from immigration documents or request it via USCIS (e.g., FOIA or INFOPASS appointment). - How is an A-Number different from a USCIS number?
The A-Number tracks immigration status, while the USCIS number (on naturalization certificates) starts with “000-” or is 10-14 digits. - Can my A-Number change?
Rarely—only if USCIS corrects a duplication error. Retain old numbers for records. - Do children receive their own A-Number?
Yes—each non-citizen child in the system has a unique A-Number, separate from parents. - Is the A-Number used for employment or benefits?
Yes—it’s required for Form I-9, driver’s licenses, and public benefit applications (e.g., SNAP).
Closing Thoughts
The Alien Registration Number (A-Number) is a vital part of the U.S. immigration system, helping to track and manage immigration cases efficiently. Understanding its importance, where to find it, and how to protect it can make navigating immigration processes smoother. Whether you’re applying for a Green Card, seeking asylum, or pursuing naturalization, your A-Number will likely be an essential part of your journey in the United States.
