Understanding Your U.S. Visa Number: A Complete Guide
When completing immigration applications or forms for U.S. immigration benefits, you will often be asked to provide your visa number. Many applicants are unsure where this number is located or how it is used. This guide from Green Card Link explains everything you need to know about your U.S. visa number, including where to locate it, how it differs from other identification numbers, and why it is critical for your immigration journey.
What Is a Visa Number?
The visa number—sometimes referred to as the visa foil number—is the unique red number printed on your U.S. visa. Typically found in the bottom right corner of your visa document, the visa number stands out because the rest of the text is printed in black ink.
- Most visa numbers are 8 characters long.
- They may include one letter followed by seven digits, or simply eight digits.
- Each number is randomly generated and entirely unique to your case.
Although the bottom right corner is the most common location, the exact placement may vary depending on the year your visa was issued. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers use this number when you arrive in the United States to confirm your legal authorization to enter the country.
Temporary vs. Permanent Visa Numbers
- For temporary visas such as the B-2 visitor visa or F-1 student visa, the visa number is only valid during the authorized stay.
- For green cards, the visa number becomes permanent.
If you received an electronic visa, you can find your visa number on your approval notice or the confirmation page you received after applying. It’s also important to know that not all foreign nationals are issued a U.S. visa—for example, travelers entering through the Visa Waiver Program or individuals adjusting status inside the U.S. without a prior visa.
Other Information Found on a U.S. Visa
Alongside your visa number, your U.S. visa contains other essential details, including:
- Full name of the visa holder
- Issuing port of entry
- Gender (male or female)
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Passport number
- Visa type/class
- Number of entries permitted
- Date of issuance
- Expiration date
- Annotations or additional notes
CBP officers verify all of this information at the port of entry to ensure it matches government records.
How to Obtain a U.S. Visa Number
To receive a visa number, you must first be approved for a U.S. visa. There are two main categories:
- Non-immigrant visas – issued for temporary stays such as tourism, business, study, or employment.
- Immigrant visas – issued for those seeking permanent residency, including family-based and employment-based green card categories.
The application process typically involves:
- Completing Form DS-160 (for non-immigrant visas) or Form DS-260 (for immigrant visas).
- Paying the required visa application fee.
- Scheduling and attending a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Submitting the necessary supporting documents.
- Receiving a decision from a U.S. consular officer.
If approved, the visa will be placed inside your passport and include your visa number. For immigrant visas, this number represents a path to permanent residency, while non-immigrant visa numbers are tied to a fixed validity period.
Visa Number vs. Alien Registration Number
It’s important to distinguish between a Visa Number and an Alien Registration Number (A-Number):
- Visa Number: An 8-digit identifier printed on your visa, used to verify your legal entry and status in the United States.
- Alien Registration Number (A-Number): A unique 7–9 digit number assigned by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to track your immigration history. This number appears on green cards, work permits (EADs), and USCIS notices.
Additionally:
- Older green cards (2004–2010) may list the Alien Registration Number as “A#.”
- Your immigrant visa (visa foil) may also display your A-Number beneath your case number.
- A PERM case number, which is an 11-digit identifier from the Department of Labor, is different from both the visa number and A-number.
Because these identifiers serve distinct purposes, it’s essential to provide the correct one depending on your application. If you’re uncertain, consult an immigration attorney at Green Card Link for clarification.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visa Numbers
How many digits is a U.S. visa number?
Most visa numbers are 8 digits, though the format may vary depending on the type of visa.
Is a visa number the same as a visa availability number?
No. A visa number is printed on your visa, while visa number availability refers to the limited supply of immigrant visas each year, as determined by the Visa Bulletin.
Does a U.S. visa always include a number?
Yes. Every U.S. visa includes a visa number.
Do F-1 students receive an Alien Registration Number?
Yes, if they obtain employment authorization, F-1 students are assigned an A-Number even if they are not applying for permanent residency.
Is the visa number the same as the control number?
No. The visa control number is an 11-digit identifier assigned by the U.S. Department of State’s Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) to track applications. It is not the same as your visa number.
How can I check my immigration status?
You can verify your USCIS case status online using your receipt number.
Why This Matters
Knowing where to find your visa number and how it differs from other immigration identifiers is essential when filing applications, traveling internationally, or checking your immigration records. Misunderstanding these numbers can cause unnecessary delays or complications. If you have questions about your visa documents, the experienced immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can guide you through the process.