Every permanent resident of the United States is assigned a unique identifier, a number that serves as the cornerstone of their immigration record. This code, formally known as the Alien Registration Number, is the primary key used by the Department of Homeland Security to track an individual's status, history, and interactions with the U.S. immigration system. Locating this number is not just a matter of administrative convenience; it is essential for completing official forms, verifying employment eligibility, and accessing various government services.
What is the Alien Registration Number?
The Alien Registration Number, often abbreviated as A-Number or USCIS Number, is a unique identification number issued to every non-citizen in the United States. This number is generated by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and remains with an individual throughout their immigration journey, even if their status changes or they eventually become a naturalized U.S. citizen. The format typically consists of either seven or nine digits, sometimes preceded by the letter "A," and serves as the definitive link between a person and their immigration file.
Physical Card and Permanent Resident Card
For most lawful permanent residents, the most accessible location for this number is the permanent resident card, commonly known as the Green Card. On the front of the card, you will find the A-Number prominently displayed. It is usually situated in the top section, either on the right side above the signature or directly below the expiration date on the bottom right. This placement is standardized to ensure quick verification by authorities and employers who need to confirm identity and status.
Where to Find it Outside the Card
While the physical card is the most common reference, there are numerous scenarios where the Green Card is not available, or the number needs to be verified independently. In these cases, knowing where else the number is stored is critical for accessing official portals or communicating effectively with immigration attorneys. The digital and administrative trails left by the immigration process all contain this vital piece of information.
One of the primary digital locations is the USCIS Online Account. If the holder has created a profile to check case status or update addresses, the A-Number is displayed prominently on the dashboard upon login. Additionally, any official immigration documents, such as the I-94 Arrival/Departure Record or the Notice of Action (I-797) received in the mail, will feature the Alien Registration Number. These documents are legally binding and serve as secondary proof of identity.
Employment and Tax Documentation
When seeking employment, the number appears on the I-9 Verification Form, which every employee must complete to prove their eligibility to work in the United States. Furthermore, for tax purposes, permanent residents use the A-Number on their W-7 application to obtain an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if they are not yet eligible for a Social Security Number. This ensures that all financial transactions are correctly linked to the individual's immigration status.
It is important to distinguish the Alien Registration Number from the Case File Number. While the A-Number is permanent and tied to the person, the Case File Number is temporary and specific to a single application or petition, such as a green card application or a visa extension. Confusing these two numbers can lead to delays and errors when submitting supporting documents to USCIS, so always double-check which identifier is required for the specific transaction.
