An Alien Registration Number, widely known as an A-Number or USCIS number, is a unique nine-digit identification number assigned by the Department of Homeland Security to non-citizens. If you're filing immigration forms or tracking your status, verifying this number is a crucial step to avoid processing delays or rejected applications.
The A-Number consists of the letter "A" followed by eight or nine digits (for example, A123456789). While it might sound straightforward, finding, checking, and validating this identifier often causes confusion for applicants managing multiple notices from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Where to Find Your Alien Number
Before you can perform any A-Number check, you need to locate the correct document displaying the identifier. USCIS prints this number on almost all official correspondence, approval notices, and secure identity documents issued to immigrants.
If you hold any of the following documents, your A-Number is printed clearly on the front or back:
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card): Found on the front of newer cards and the back of older editions, usually labeled as the USCIS# or appearing right below your name.
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD): Listed as the USCIS number on the front of the work permit card.
- Immigrant Visa Stamp: Printed in the passport next to your photograph and biographical data.
- Notice of Action (Form I-797): Displayed prominently at the top right corner under the "A-Number" label on receipt notices and approval letters.
If your document lists an A-Number with fewer than nine digits after the letter "A", you must format it correctly for online systems. Insert a zero right after the letter "A" to make it a standard nine-digit sequence (for example, changing A1234567 to A01234567).
How to Verify Your A-Number Online
You can't look up an A-Number through a public directory due to privacy laws, but you can verify its validity and check your case status using official government portals.
- Create or log into your official USCIS Online Account.
- Navigate to the case tracking dashboard.
- Enter your receipt number (found on your Form I-797 notice) to link pending applications tied to your A-Number.
- Review your profile details to ensure the personal data matches the information printed on your immigration documents.
If you've lost your documents entirely and need to retrieve your A-Number, you'll have to submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request via the USCIS FOIA Program or schedule an appointment through the USCIS InfoPass system to speak with an officer in person.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants frequently run into formatting errors that stall application processing. Watch out for these pitfalls:
- Mixing up numbers: Don't confuse your USCIS Online Account Number with your Alien Registration Number. They serve different tracking functions within the agency's database.
- Omitting the letter: Always include the capital letter "A" prefix when typing the number into paper forms, unless the specific input field explicitly separates the letter from the digits.
- Typing zero errors: Double-check every digit against your official receipt notice. A single transposed number will disconnect your profile from active petition records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an A-Number the same as a USCIS Online Account Number?
No. Your A-Number is your permanent immigration file number that stays with you for life. Your USCIS Online Account Number is simply a login identifier for the digital portal used to manage specific online filings.
What should I do if my A-Number is missing from my receipt notice?
Sometimes newly issued cases take days to generate a permanent file. If your notice leaves the slot blank, wait for the next physical notice or contact the USCIS contact center for assistance.
Do tourist visa holders have an Alien Registration Number?
Generally, no. B-1/B-2 tourist visitors and short-term non-immigrants do not receive A-Numbers unless they apply for a change of status or adjustment that triggers a formal immigration file.
Can I use my A-Number instead of a Social Security Number?
No. An A-Number is strictly for immigration tracking and work authorization verification. It doesn't replace a Social Security Number issued by the Social Security Administration for tax and employment reporting.
