What is an Alien Registration Number (A-Number)?
An Alien Registration Number (A-Number) is a unique seven- to nine-digit identification number assigned by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to certain immigrants in the United States. Green card holders, lawful permanent residents, and individuals granted certain immigration benefits receive this number. In contrast, most temporary nonimmigrants, such as those visiting the U.S. for a short period, will not be issued an Alien Registration Number. Exceptions include nonimmigrants with Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) or specific benefits that require the issuance of an A-Number.
Where to Find Your Alien Registration Number
On Your Green Card (Form I-551)
If you were issued a permanent resident card (Form I-551) after May 10, 2010, your A-Number is printed on the front of the card. It appears next to your photo, labeled as “USCIS#.” You will also see it on the back of the card following your country code.
Additionally, when USCIS mails your green card, the envelope typically includes a notice form that contains both your Alien Registration Number and your receipt number. It is important to keep this document in a safe place, as it will be useful when you need to renew or replace your card.
For older versions of the green card issued between 2004 and 2010, the Alien Registration Number is listed as “A#.”
On a Work Permit (Employment Authorization Document)
If you do not have a green card but were issued a work permit (EAD), you can locate your Alien Registration Number under USCIS# on the front of the document. The number may appear in the format: 000-000-001.
On a Visa Stamp (Immigrant Visa in Passport)
If you received an immigrant visa through consular processing, your visa stamp (or visa foil) will contain your Alien Registration Number. You can usually find it on the right-hand side below your case number.
On USCIS Notices
You may also find your A-Number on:
- Form I-797C, Notice of Action (look for the field labeled “USCIS#”)
- Immigrant Data Summary, provided by a U.S. consulate or embassy during consular processing
- USCIS Immigrant Fee Handout, given after your consular interview (A-Number is located in the top right corner)
Alien Registration Numbers and H-1B Visa Holders
H-1B visa holders typically do not receive an Alien Registration Number unless they begin the green card process. Once an I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) is filed and approved, USCIS assigns the A-Number.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alien Registration Numbers
How Can I Check My Immigration Status With My A-Number?
You can submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Request (Form G-639) to obtain your immigration file, which includes your A-Number, if you cannot locate it on your documents. USCIS usually takes about eight weeks to respond. At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys can guide you through this process to ensure accurate and timely results.
Is My A-Number the Same as My USCIS Case Number?
No. These are separate identifiers:
- Your A-Number (7–9 digits) remains consistent across all your immigration documents.
- Your USCIS receipt number (13 characters, beginning with three letters followed by ten digits) tracks a specific application or petition.
While both numbers are important, they serve different purposes. The A-Number identifies you as an individual, while the receipt number tracks the status of your application.
Do F-1 and H-4 Visa Holders Receive an A-Number?
- F-1 students may be assigned an A-Number if they apply for employment authorization.
- H-4 dependents generally do not receive one unless they are the principal H-1B holder undergoing the green card process.
What About a Marriage Green Card Application?
Applicants for a marriage-based green card typically receive their Alien Registration Number during the consular interview. If applying from within the U.S., USCIS issues the number approximately 30 days after filing Form I-485.
What If I Lost My Alien Registration Number?
If you misplace your A-Number, you can retrieve it by:
- Filing a FOIA request with USCIS
- Scheduling an InfoPass appointment at your local USCIS office
Is My Social Security Number (SSN) the Same as My A-Number?
No. Your Social Security Number (SSN) is issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) for tracking employment, income, and tax records. The A-Number, on the other hand, is strictly for immigration identification purposes.
Why Understanding Your Alien Registration Number Matters
Because multiple immigration documents contain unique identifiers (receipt numbers, SSNs, and A-Numbers), confusion is common. Misusing or misunderstanding these numbers can cause delays in your case. Working with an experienced immigration attorney at Green Card Link ensures that all your applications, petitions, and supporting documents are filed correctly, avoiding unnecessary delays.
Seek Guidance From Green Card Link
Because multiple immigration documents contain unique iaImmigration processes are complex, and managing multiple identifiers can be overwhelming. At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys carefully prepare and file all applications to ensure your Alien Registration Number, USCIS receipt number, and other identifiers are used correctly. By partnering with trusted professionals, you can protect your immigration status and move forward with confidence.dentifiers (receipt numbers, SSNs, and A-Numbers), confusion is common. Misusing or misunderstanding these numbers can cause delays in your case. Working with an experienced immigration attorney at Green Card Link ensures that all your applications, petitions, and supporting documents are filed correctly, avoiding unnecessary delays.
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