AR-11 Change of Address Form: Complete Guide for Immigrants and Non-Citizens
The AR-11, also known as the Alien’s Change of Address Card, may appear to be one of the simplest forms in U.S. immigration, but it is also one of the most critical. Filing this form correctly and on time is essential to avoid potential issues with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the Department of State. Because the AR-11 has different requirements depending on your immigration category, understanding when, how, and where to file is extremely important.
At Green Card Link, our immigration attorneys help clients navigate every detail of the AR-11 process to ensure compliance and peace of mind.
What Is the AR-11 Form?
Anytime you move to a new residence, you are required to file and submit the AR-11 form within 10 days of your move. This form notifies USCIS of your updated address and ensures you continue to receive official correspondence about your immigration case.
A common misconception is that filing a change of address with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is enough. However, USPS does not share this information with USCIS, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), or the Executive Office of Immigration Review (EOIR). Filing the AR-11 is a legal requirement that directly impacts your immigration status.
What Happens If You Don’t File AR-11?
Filing the AR-11 is required by law under 8 U.S.C. § 1305. Failing to notify USCIS of your new address can lead to serious consequences, including:
- A fine of up to $200
- Up to 30 days in jail
- Deportation proceedings
While it is rare for authorities to pursue penalties solely for missing this requirement, USCIS strongly enforces compliance. Even if you miss the 10-day deadline, you should still submit the AR-11 as soon as possible.
How to Submit the AR-11
You can file your change of address in two primary ways:
- Through your USCIS online account
- By filing the AR-11 online directly
Filing Without a Pending Immigration Case
If you don’t currently have an active immigration application or petition, you’ll need to provide:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Alien registration number (if applicable)
- Current country of citizenship
- Immigration category (permanent resident, student, visitor, etc.)
- Old address
- New address
- Mailing address (if different)
- Email address
- Preparer information (if someone else fills out the form for you)
Filing With a Pending Immigration Application or Petition
If you have an application or petition still under review, you must also include:
- USCIS form numbers for pending applications
- Subtypes of each form
- Receipt numbers
- Original filing zip code
Mailing the AR-11: Who Must File by Mail?
Although USCIS offers an online AR-11 option, certain applicants must submit the physical form by mail. When mailing, always use certified, registered, or return receipt mail to ensure proof of delivery.
Abuse Waivers
If you filed an I-751 Abuse Waiver, you must mail your AR-11 to the appropriate USCIS Service Center listed on your receipt number. Each center has a different mailing address, such as the Vermont, Nebraska, Texas, California, or Potomac Service Centers.
Victims of Domestic Violence, Trafficking, or Other Crimes
Applicants filing under humanitarian categories (VAWA, T Visa, U Visa, etc.) must mail the AR-11 to the USCIS Vermont Service Center, Humanitarian Division. This applies to petitions including Form I-360, I-485, I-765, I-765V, I-914, I-918, and I-929.
Special Categories With Different Address Change Requirements
Not everyone will use the AR-11 form. Certain categories must notify USCIS through other means:
- U.S. Citizens (Sponsors): If you filed an affidavit of support, submit Form I-865 (Sponsor’s Notice of Change of Address) within 30 days of your move.
- Civil Surgeons: Notify USCIS via the approval email instructions.
- Attorneys & Accredited Representatives: Legal representatives must either submit Form G-28 for each pending case or send a letter on official stationery listing all cases. At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys ensure all pending matters are updated with USCIS without delay.
How to Avoid Filing AR-11 in the Future
The only way to permanently avoid filing AR-11 after each move is to become a U.S. citizen. If you qualify, applying for naturalization eliminates the requirement to file change-of-address forms with USCIS.
How Green Card Link Can Help
Managing immigration paperwork can feel overwhelming, especially when one small oversight can lead to unnecessary risks. At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys handle every detail of your immigration process—from major petitions to routine filings like the AR-11.
By trusting experienced professionals, you can avoid costly mistakes, maintain compliance with immigration law, and focus on building your future in the United States.
Contact Green Card Link today to get started with experienced immigration attorneys who will guide you through every step of your case.