- The A-Number is a unique nine-digit identifier that links all your immigration records.
- It appears on documents like a green card, EAD, visa stamp, certain USCIS notices, and some I-94s.
- The A-Number is permanent, while a USCIS case number changes with each filing.
The alien registration number, also known as the A-Number, is a unique nine-digit number code preceded by the letter "A." assigned by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It is an important identifier in your immigration file, used for tracking applications, immigration status etc.
Where to Find Your Alien Registration Number?
If you're asking yourself, "Where to find alien number?", don't worry, you may not have been issued one yet. There are several official documents and places where you would have received an A number, and can locate this important identifier. Let's explore each in detail:
- Immigration Documents: Your A-number is prominently displayed on various official immigration documents including -
- Green Card (Form I-551 or Permanent Resident Card): Look on the front of your card. The A-number is typically listed as "USCIS#" or "Registration Number."
- Employment Authorization Document/Work Permit (EAD): Check the front of your EAD card. The A-number is usually listed under "USCIS#."
- Immigrant Visa: If you entered the U.S. on an immigrant visa, check the visa in your passport. The A-number should be printed on it.
- USCIS Correspondence: The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) includes your A-number in various communications including -
- Receipt Notices: If you have an A number already assigned, when you file an application or petition, USCIS sends a receipt notice (I-797C). Your A-number is typically listed at the top of this document.
- Approval Notices: If you have an A number already assigned, when your application is approved, the approval notice will also include your A-number. If you are filing Form I-140 or I-485, an A number will be provided in your approval notice.
- Request for Evidence (RFE) Letters: If you have an A number already assigned, if USCIS requests additional information, your A-number will be on this correspondence.
- Certain USCIS Notices of Action
- I-94 Arrival/Departure Record: For some non-immigrants, the A-number may be found on the I-94 record:
- Paper I-94: If you received a paper I-94 upon entry, check the front and back of the card.
- Electronic I-94: For electronic I-94s, log into the CBP website and view your most recent I-94. Some, but not all, I-94 records include an A-number.
- Immigration Court Documents: If you've been involved in removal proceedings, your A-number will appear on various court documents including:
- Notice to Appear (NTA): This document initiates removal proceedings and includes your A-number.
- Immigration Judge Decisions: Any decision from an Immigration Judge will list your A-number.
- Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) Decisions: If your case went to the BIA, their decision will include your A-number.
- Other Potential Sources
- USCIS Online Account: If you've created an online account with USCIS, your A-number may be visible in your profile.
- Previous Immigration Applications: Review copies of any immigration applications you've submitted in the past.
- Biometric Appointment Notices: If you've been scheduled for biometrics, the appointment notice should include your A-number.
Is the I-94 and Alien Registration Number the Same?
No. An I-94 record is tied to entry and exit for nonimmigrant visas like an F-1 visa for an F-1 student. An A-Number is tied to your permanent immigration records and future filings. Some older paper I-94s list an A-Number, but they are not the same.
What Is an Example of an Alien Registration Number?
A typical A-Number looks like this: A123456789 (a 9-digit number preceded by “A”).
What Is My Alien Registration Number For?
The A-Number connects all your immigration records across government agencies. It is used for:
- Checking the status of your green card application
- Linking supporting documents in your immigration file
- Tracking progress toward naturalization
- Identifying your case during consular processing at a U.S. embassy
Is an A-Number the Same as My USCIS Case Number?
No. An A-Number is your permanent identification number. A USCIS case number (also called a receipt number) is specific to each filing, such as a petition or Notice of Action. You may have one A-Number but multiple USCIS case numbers.
Final Thoughts
Your A-Number is central to U.S. immigration law. Whether you are a green card holder, pursuing naturalization as a future U.S. citizen, or applying for a nonimmigrant visa through consular processing, always keep this number secure. It connects your immigration status with all major filings across government agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
The A-number typically consists of 9 digits preceded by the letter "A." For example: A123456789.
Generally, once assigned, your A-number remains the same throughout your immigration journey. However, in rare cases, it might change if there's an administrative error or other exceptional circumstances.
If you're unable to locate your alien registration number, its possible you have not been issued one yet, but you can always:
- Review all your immigration documents carefully.
- Contact USCIS directly for assistance.
- Consult with an immigration attorney who can help you retrieve this information.
Pegah Karimabakhsh Asli is an Associate Attorney at Alma, where she advises startups, founders, and enterprise clients on a wide range of employment-based immigration matters. She has extensive experience preparing and filing petitions across key categories, including TN, H-1B, L-1, O-1, EB-1, NIW, and Adjustment of Status (AOS), and provides strategic counsel to clients navigating complex immigration pathways.
Before joining Alma, Pegah worked at Fragomen in Silicon Valley, where she supported multinational corporations and high-growth companies with business immigration strategy and case management.
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