Locating your alien registration number is often a straightforward process, but the specific method depends entirely on your circumstances and the purpose of the search. This identifier, sometimes called an A-number, is the unique code assigned by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to track every case in the immigration system. Whether you are verifying a document, completing a form, or ensuring your records are accurate, understanding where to find this number is essential for a smooth process.
Primary Location on Official Documents
The most reliable place to find your alien registration number is directly on the physical document issued by the government. For most immigrants, this number appears on the front of the Permanent Resident Card, commonly known as the Green Card. It is typically located in the top right corner of the card, formatted as a nine-digit number that may include leading zeros.
Other USCIS Documents
If you do not have a Green Card or it is expired, the alien registration number appears on other official notices from USCIS. You can find it on your Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as a work permit, usually printed on the front side. It is also present on approval notices for various petitions, such as Form I-797, Notice of Action, which is issued when a visa application or adjustment of status is approved.
Online Account Portals
For individuals who have interacted with USCIS online, the number is readily available in your digital account. The USCIS Online Account is a secure portal that allows users to view their case history and immigration records. Once logged in, the alien registration number is displayed prominently on the dashboard, alongside current case statuses and biographical information, making it easily accessible for future reference.
Case Status Inquiry
Even without a registered account, you can retrieve the number through the USCIS Case Status Online tool. You will need to input your last name, date of birth, and the receipt number from the correspondence you received. After submitting this information, the system will display the case details, and the alien registration number will be listed among the provided data.
When the Number Is Not Immediately Visible
In some instances, the alien registration number might not be immediately obvious, particularly on older documents or preliminary notices. If you are looking at a copy of your visa stamp or an arrival/departure record, the A-number may be printed on the back of the document. It is also possible that the number is located on a separate page of the passport stamp packet, so checking all pages of your immigration paperwork is a recommended step.
Contacting Official Support
If you are unable to locate the number through the methods above, contacting USCIS directly is the next logical step. You can reach a customer service representative by calling the USCIS Contact Center. While waiting times can vary, having your biographical information ready, such as your full name and date of birth, will help the agent locate your file and provide the alien registration number quickly.
