This article was last updated and fact checked on April 28, 2025 by Mani Karthik.
When I first received my US visa documents, I was completely confused by all the different numbers and identifiers.
The term “Alien Registration Number” sounded particularly intimidating, and I spent hours trying to figure out where to find it and why it mattered.
After years of navigating the US immigration system and helping dozens of family members through their visa journeys, I can explain exactly what your A-Number is, where to find it, and why it’s so important for your immigration journey to America.
In this article...
Quick Overview: What Is an Alien Registration Number?
An Alien Registration Number (A-Number) is a unique 8 or 9 digit identifier assigned to foreign nationals by US immigration authorities. It serves as your permanent identifier in the US immigration system.
You’ll find your A-Number on documents like green cards, EAD cards, and certain USCIS notices, typically preceded by the letter “A” (example: A123 456 789).
You’ll need this number when filing immigration forms, checking application status, and communicating with USCIS.
Once assigned, your A-Number stays with you throughout your entire immigration journey in the United States.
When traveling to USA, travel insurance is much recommended.
Two great plans are, Atlas America and Safe Travels USA.
However there are other choices like these, as well.
Where to Find Your Alien Registration Number
Your A-Number location depends on your immigration status and documents:
On a Green Card (Permanent Resident Card)
- Look at the back of your card
- Find “USCIS#” or “A#” followed by 8 or 9 digits
- On newer cards (post-2010), it appears on the back
- On older cards, it may appear on the front
💡 Pro Tip: Take clear photos of both sides of all your immigration documents and store them securely in a password protected cloud storage. This ensures you always have access to your A-Number even if your physical documents are unavailable when filling out important forms.
On Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
- Check the front of your EAD card
- Find “USCIS#” followed by your A-Number
- It’s typically located below your photograph
On USCIS Correspondence
- Review USCIS notices and approval letters
- Look for “A#” followed by your number
- Often appears in the top right corner or in the body of the letter
On Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record)
- Some I-94 records include your A-Number
- Look in the “Registration Number” field
- Note: Not all I-94s include an A-Number
If you’re a first time visa applicant who hasn’t yet interacted with USCIS, you might not have an A-Number assigned yet.
Who Gets an Alien Registration Number?
Not every foreign visitor to the US receives an A-Number. These individuals typically receive one:
- Permanent residents (green card holders)
- Asylees and refugees
- Applicants for adjustment of status
- Those with employment authorization
- Certain nonimmigrants with specific status issues
- Anyone in removal (deportation) proceedings
Tourist and business visa holders (B1/B2) generally don’t receive A-Numbers unless they apply for an immigration benefit or encounter specific immigration issues.
| Document Type | Where to Find A-Number | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Green Card | Back of card | A# or USCIS# |
| EAD Card | Front of card | USCIS# |
| USCIS Notices | Top section | A# |
| I-94 (some cases) | Registration Number field | Numeric only |
When You’ll Need Your Alien Registration Number
Your A-Number will be required in numerous situations:
1. Filing USCIS Forms
Most immigration forms require your A-Number, including:
- Form I-90 (Renew/Replace Green Card)
- Form I-751 (Remove Conditions on Residence)
- Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)
- Form I-131 (Travel Document)
- Form I-765 (Employment Authorization)
2. Checking Case Status
When checking your application status on the USCIS website, you can use your A-Number (along with other identifiers) to locate your case.
3. Communicating with USCIS
For inquiries, customer service calls, or InfoPass appointments, your A-Number helps representatives locate your records quickly.
4. Employment Verification
Employers may need your A-Number for the I-9 employment eligibility verification process.
5. Certain State Services
Some state agencies require your A-Number for services like driver’s licenses or state ID cards.
A-Number vs. Other Immigration Numbers
Many people confuse different immigration identifiers:
A-Number vs. USCIS Receipt Number
- A-Number: Your permanent identifier (8-9 digits)
- Receipt Number: Tracks a specific application (13 characters, e.g., EAC-12-345-67890)
A-Number vs. Green Card Number
- A-Number: Your permanent identifier across all immigration processes
- Green Card Number: Identifies your specific physical card (3 letters followed by 10 numbers)
A-Number vs. I-94 Number
- A-Number: Permanent identifier in the immigration system
- I-94 Number: Tracks a specific entry to the US (11 digits)
Common Questions About Alien Registration Numbers
Does my A-Number change if I renew my green card?
No, your A-Number stays the same throughout your immigration journey, even when you renew your green card or apply for citizenship. Only the physical card number changes with renewals.
What if I can’t find my A-Number?
If you can’t locate your A-Number, you can:
- Review all USCIS correspondence and immigration documents
- Submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to USCIS
- Schedule an InfoPass appointment at a USCIS field office
- Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283
Is my A-Number the same as my “Case Number”?
No, your A-Number is different from USCIS case or receipt numbers. Receipt numbers track specific applications, while your A-Number tracks you as an individual throughout the immigration system.
Do H1B visa holders get an A-Number?
Generally, H1B visa holders don’t receive an A-Number unless they apply for permanent residency or another immigration benefit that requires registration. However, some H1B approval notices may include an A-Number if one was previously assigned.
How many digits should my A-Number have?
A valid A-Number has either 8 or 9 digits. If your A-Number has 8 digits, you may sometimes need to add a leading zero when filling out forms that require 9 digits.
Common Mistakes to Avoid With A-Numbers
1. Confusing Different Immigration Numbers
Many people mix up their A-Number with receipt numbers, I-94 numbers, or green card numbers. Each serves a different purpose in the immigration system.
2. Forgetting to Include the “A” Prefix
When filling out forms, some people include the letter “A” while others omit it. Follow the specific instructions on each form about whether to include the prefix.
3. Not Keeping A-Number Records
Your A-Number is a lifetime identifier in the US immigration system. Keep records of it even after becoming a US citizen, as it may be needed for future family petitions or other processes.
4. Inconsistent Formatting
Some people inconsistently format their A-Number across different applications (with or without hyphens, spaces, or the “A” prefix). This can cause verification issues in automated systems.
Bonus Tips for Managing Your A-Number
Create a dedicated immigration document folder. Keep both physical and digital copies of all documents containing your A-Number.
Include your A-Number in correspondence with USCIS. Always reference your A-Number when communicating about your immigration case.
Check for typos when entering your A-Number. A single digit error can cause significant delays or misconnection of your records.
Know when it’s safe to share your A-Number. While not as sensitive as your Social Security Number, your A-Number should only be shared with legitimate government agencies, employers for I-9 verification, and authorized immigration representatives.
💡 Pro Tip: Create a secure digital document with all your important immigration identifiers: A-Number, I-94 number, receipt numbers for pending applications, and USCIS online account information. Having these details organized in one secure place makes completing future immigration forms much faster and error free.
Key Takeaways About Alien Registration Numbers
- Your A-Number is your permanent identifier in the US immigration system
- It appears on green cards, EAD cards, and USCIS notices
- The format is typically “A” followed by 8 or 9 digits
- Not all foreign visitors receive A-Numbers, primarily those with permanent or long term status
- Your A-Number stays with you throughout your immigration journey
- Keep your A-Number safe but accessible for immigration forms and processes
- Know the difference between your A-Number and other immigration identifiers
Understanding your Alien Registration Number might seem like a small detail, but it plays a crucial role in your immigration journey.
Having this knowledge helps you navigate the US immigration system more confidently and avoid potential complications with your applications.
I hope this guide helps clarify what can be a confusing aspect of US immigration!
Wishing you a smooth and successful immigration journey to the United States. Safe travels! ✈️
