Key Takeaways
• A-Number and USCIS Number usually refer to the same 9-digit code for non-citizens in the U.S. immigration system.
• USCIS Case Number is a separate 13-character code tracking individual immigration applications, different from the A-Number/USCIS Number.
• Green cards issued after May 2010 display the A-Number as “USCIS#.” Always use the correct number on forms.
The A-Number, also known as the Alien Registration Number, and the USCIS Number are two terms in the United States 🇺🇸 immigration system that many people mix up. It’s easy to see why—these numbers often refer to the same code used by U.S. immigration authorities to identify non-citizens. But, even though the A-Number and USCIS Number may seem alike, each has its own place and way of being shown on official papers. Understanding exactly what these numbers mean, how they are used, and how they are different from other immigration numbers makes the process less confusing. This article explains the details in a clear, easy-to-read way, and covers who gets these numbers, where to find them, and why they matter.
What is an A-Number?
An A-Number, sometimes called an Alien Registration Number or Alien Number, is a special number given by the government to people who are not citizens of the United States 🇺🇸 but have official business with the immigration system. This number is made and tracked by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Think of the A-Number like a permanent ID just for immigration—it is only for people who deal with the immigration authorities in the United States 🇺🇸. Just as a Social Security number is used to track jobs, taxes, and benefits for citizens, the A-Number helps the government keep track of someone’s entire immigration record.
Main A-Number Features:
– It is a string of 7, 8, or 9 numbers.
– It often appears with the letter ‘A’ in front. For example: A123456789.
– The A-Number does not change—even if you apply for many things or live in the United States 🇺🇸 for a long time.
– This number is used by the government when keeping records about your immigration history.
Whenever someone applies for certain visas, a green card, asylum, or other official status, the government issues an A-Number. All information about their paperwork and immigration steps is labeled and stored using this number. That makes their journey through the system easier to follow and organize.
What is a USCIS Number?
A USCIS Number is another name for the A-Number, but people usually see this term written in one special spot: their green card. Starting in May 2010, the United States 🇺🇸 began using the “USCIS#” or “USCIS Number” label on the front of new green cards (also called Permanent Resident Cards). In these newer cards, USCIS uses the word “USCIS#” when showing your Alien Registration Number.
Some people get confused because older forms and letters from USCIS—or other government websites—use “A-Number,” while the green card says “USCIS#,” but the number itself is the same. In short, both names usually point to the same 9-digit code.
Key Points about the USCIS Number:
– It is a 9-digit number shown on the current-style green card.
– On the card, it appears in the form “USCIS# 123456789.” There’s no “A” in front on the green card.
– In almost all cases, “A-Number” and “USCIS Number” are used for the same thing: your unique person ID for immigration.
It’s important not to mix this with your USCIS Case Number, which is a totally different number used to track specific applications.
Where to Find Your A-Number or USCIS Number
It helps to know where this special number is printed. Immigration authorities list the A-Number or USCIS Number on several official papers:
- Green Card (Permanent Resident Card): On cards from after May 2010, the number is listed as “USCIS#.”
- Employment Authorization Card (EAD): Listed as “USCIS#” in the identity section.
- Approval Notices (like Form I-797): The A-Number will be shown as a reference on many USCIS letters.
- Immigrant Visa Stamp: The number appears under “Registration Number.”
Whenever you need to fill out a form or check your status with the immigration agency, you should use this number exactly as shown on the most recent official document.
Who Gets an A-Number or USCIS Number?
Not all people who visit or work in the United States 🇺🇸 get an A-Number or a USCIS Number. These numbers are mainly for people who are going through long-term processes with U.S. immigration—not for tourists or people on short summer trips.
People who usually get an A-Number:
– Those granted lawful permanent residence (Green Card holders).
– People who have applied for a green card, even if they do not have it yet.
– Asylees and refugees.
– People with some visa types, like those on special work visas or with permission to live and work in the United States 🇺🇸 for many years.
– F-1 student visa holders who get permission to work through programs like Optional Practical Training (OPT).
– Anyone who gets an official approval notice for permanent or long-term immigration benefits.
People who come for a short stay (such as tourist visits or most business visas) do not have an A-Number. If someone applies for a longer-term status, they usually receive the number as part of that process.
Why Does the Government Use These Numbers?
The U.S. immigration system is huge, with millions of people interacting every year. It’s important for the government to keep accurate, well-organized records for every person, so they know:
– Who has applied for what.
– Who received a benefit or status.
– Where each person’s paperwork is in the process.
– Which documents go with which person.
The A-Number, or USCIS Number, acts as a way for officers to pull up someone’s entire record quickly. If you contact the government, they can find your details instantly by searching for this number.
Key Differences between A-Number, USCIS Number, and USCIS Case Number
Even though the A-Number and USCIS Number are nearly always the same, people sometimes confuse these with the USCIS Case Number. There are big differences between these:
1. Purpose
- A-Number/USCIS Number: These numbers serve as a personal ID for the individual in the immigration system. You use the same number for every official form, request, or status update that involves you, no matter how many cases you file.
- USCIS Case Number: This code is only for one specific application or petition. If you file more than one application (like a green card, then later for citizenship), you will have a different case number for each application.
2. Format
- A-Number/USCIS Number: Is made up of 7, 8, or 9 digits. If less than 9 digits, zeros are sometimes added to the front (for example, A00123456).
- USCIS Case Number: This is a 13-character code. It starts with three letters (like EAC, MSC, WAC, or LIN), followed by 10 numbers (for example, MSC1234567890).
3. Permanence
- A-Number/USCIS Number: You will keep this number for your entire life, no matter how many immigration requests you make.
- USCIS Case Number: This number is new for each form, petition, or request you make. Once the case is closed, the number does not get reused.
4. Analogy
Think of the A-Number or USCIS Number as being similar to a driver’s license number, which stays with you forever. In contrast, a USCIS Case Number is like a ticket number for a single customer service request—you get a new one every time you make a new request.
The Difference in Everyday Life—Examples
- Green Card Renewals: If someone with a green card needs to renew it, their A-Number (USCIS Number) stays the same, even if they file multiple renewal applications, each with a different USCIS Case Number.
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Applying for Citizenship: When a permanent resident applies for citizenship, they give their A-Number on the application, but USCIS assigns a brand new case number for tracking that specific application.
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Work Authorization: An F-1 student who receives work permission gets an A-Number (shown on their work permit card). If they later apply for a green card, they use the same A-Number for the application, but the form will have its own unique case number for tracking.
How to Use the Numbers Correctly in Immigration Forms
When asked for your A-Number, USCIS Number, or Alien Registration Number on forms or documents, always use the digits exactly as they appear on official records. If a form requests a USCIS Case Number, be sure to enter the 13-character code from your case receipt notice and not your A-Number.
Providing the right number is key! Giving the wrong one can cause delays, confusion, or lost paperwork. It’s always a good idea to double-check whether a government form asks for your A-Number or case number.
Common Questions and Misconceptions
Q: Is the USCIS Number different from the A-Number?
A: In most cases, they are the same. On green cards, the label “USCIS#” is used for the A-Number.
Q: Can a person have more than one A-Number?
A: Normally, you only get one. If you accidentally get two through a mistake, the government will usually merge them.
Q: Do tourists and short-term visitors get an A-Number?
A: No. These numbers are only for people who start long-term processes with U.S. immigration.
Q: Where can I find my A-Number?
A: Look on your green card (USCIS#), work permit (EAD), immigration approval letter, or visa stamp.
Q: What is the difference between an Alien Registration Number and an Alien File Number?
A: These two phrases both refer to the A-Number. The “file” is the government folder tied to the A-Number.
What to Do If You Can’t Find Your A-Number
If you have lost your green card, work permit, or approval notice, and you need your A-Number, you can:
– Request a copy of your file from USCIS by filing Form G-639 (Freedom of Information Act request) Form G-639.
– Contact USCIS customer service for help (be ready to answer questions only you would know to confirm your identity).
– Review any emails, letters, or receipts you have kept from any application—your A-Number often appears there.
Why It Matters
Your A-Number, USCIS Number, and USCIS Case Number are the backbone of your immigration records. If you enter the wrong number on a form or give the wrong code over the phone, it can delay your case or cause confusion. Keeping good records, using each number in the right place, and double-checking your paperwork before sending are all very important steps in your immigration process.
VisaVerge.com’s investigation reveals that many immigrants accidentally enter a case number when asked for their A-Number, or vice versa, which creates headaches and slows down processing.
Recent Changes and Ongoing Use
Green cards issued since May 2010 use the “USCIS#” label instead of just “A-Number,” but no changes have been made to how the numbers themselves work. The A-Number remains the key identification code in the immigration system.
If you’d like to read the government’s definition, you can find more details directly on the USCIS glossary page.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Makes it easier for the immigration system to organize personal records.
– Stays the same even as you move from one status or application to another.
– Reduces errors and mix-ups if used correctly.
Cons:
– Multiple terms (A-Number, USCIS Number) can confuse applicants.
– Mistaking your A-Number for a case number (or the other way around) can slow down your application.
– If you lose all your paperwork, retrieving the number can take time and effort.
Additional Resources
For more help, official guidance, and updated forms, see:
– USCIS Official Website
– The Alien Registration Number explanation
– Check out VisaVerge.com for easy-to-understand articles and news about immigration topics.
In summary, both the A-Number and the USCIS Number refer to the same unique code used to track a person’s entire immigration history in the United States 🇺🇸. Knowing the difference between these numbers and the USCIS Case Number can save you from problems and help your immigration process go more smoothly. Always keep a copy of your A-Number and check that you put the correct number on every form. If in doubt, check your documents, contact USCIS, or seek help from a trusted resource.
Learn Today
A-Number → A unique 7-9 digit identifier assigned to non-citizens by U.S. immigration authorities for tracking personal immigration records.
USCIS Number → The label used on green cards to display an individual’s A-Number; often exactly the same as your Alien Registration Number.
USCIS Case Number → A 13-character code that tracks a specific immigration application or petition filed with USCIS; different for each case.
Alien Registration Number → Another term for A-Number, used for identifying and organizing all official records for a non-citizen in the U.S.
Form I-797 → An official USCIS notice providing information about the approval or status of certain immigration-related requests, often listing the A-Number.
This Article in a Nutshell
Many confuse the A-Number and USCIS Number, but both usually identify the same person in the U.S. immigration system. Distinct from the USCIS Case Number, these codes help keep your records organized. Know where to find your numbers, use them correctly, and avoid errors for smooth immigration processing.
— By VisaVerge.com
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