Alien Registration Number (A-Number): What It Is & How to Locate It
The Alien Registration Number (A-Number) is a unique identifier assigned by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to certain non-citizens. This number is crucial for tracking an individual’s immigration records and processing applications such as green cards, work permits, and visas. Understanding what an A-Number is and where to find it can help ensure a smooth immigration process.
What Is an Alien Registration Number (A-Number)?
An A-Number is a seven-, eight-, or nine-digit number assigned to non-U.S. citizens who apply for immigration benefits. It functions similarly to a Social Security Number (SSN) but is used exclusively for immigration purposes.
Who Gets an A-Number?
USCIS assigns an A-Number to individuals in the following situations:
Green card applicants
Work permit (EAD) holders
Certain visa holders, such as those applying for asylum
Non-citizens placed in removal proceedings
Where to Find Your Alien Registration Number
Your A-Number is located on several official USCIS documents, including:
Green Card (Permanent Resident Card)
Found on the front side, labeled as USCIS# (starting with an "A").
Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
Appears under USCIS# on the card.
Immigrant Visa (Visa Stamp on Passport)
Printed as A# on the visa page issued by the U.S. embassy.
Form I-797 (Notice of Action)
Listed in the body of the letter if USCIS has assigned one.
Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) – Older Versions
Some pre-2013 paper versions may include the A-Number.
Why Is Your A-Number Important?
Your A-Number is used to: ✅ Track your immigration case status ✅ Process green card and citizenship applications ✅ File FOIA requests for immigration records ✅ Identify you in official immigration communications
Final Thoughts
Knowing your Alien Registration Number and where to find it is essential for managing your immigration status in the U.S. Keep this number safe, as it will be needed for various applications and official processes.
🔗 Learn more about your A-Number and immigration process here
