What is an Alien Registration Number and Where Do I Find It?

The important distinction here is between an A-Number (Alien Registration Number) and other USCIS identifiers.

An A-Number is generally a seven-, eight-, or nine-digit number assigned by the Department of Homeland Security to certain noncitizens. It is used to identify immigration records.

The number may be listed on documents issued by USCIS and other relevant immigration agencies. USCIS form instructions explain that you may find it on documents received from USCIS, ICE, or the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), depending on your circumstances.

For your H-1B situation, I would suggest checking the specific application instructions and any prior immigration records. Don't assume that having an H-1B status means you must already have an A-Number.

Also, distinguish the following:

Identifier

Purpose

A-Number

Immigration record identifier

USCIS Online Account Number

Identifies your USCIS online account

I-94 Number

Arrival-departure record identifier

Receipt Number

Identifies a USCIS case or filing

The exact information required depends on the form you're completing. If you're uncertain, consult the official USCIS instructions or an authorized immigration professional.

My situation was slightly different. I was on an F-1 visa before moving into the employment-based immigration process, so I had several USCIS documents to review.

From what I've understood, the A-Number is an immigration identifier used by the Department of Homeland Security. It's not the same as your passport number, visa number, or I-94 number.

I would start with the following documents if you have received them:

• Permanent Resident Card (green card)
• Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
• USCIS notices relating to immigration applications
• Immigration documents issued during relevant proceedings

I don't think it's useful to search for an A-Number on every document you have. Some people may not have one, and the documents issued to them can vary.

Also, be careful with the term USCIS Number. On an EAD or green card, it may refer to the A-Number, but you should check the specific document and official instructions.

I would not enter your USCIS online account number in an A-Number field. Those are separate numbers, and mixing them up could create unnecessary confusion.

Hi Rahul, I had a similar question when I was preparing my employment-based adjustment of status application.

The first thing I would suggest is checking whether you have previously received an A-Number through an immigration application or proceeding. I wouldn't assume that your H-1B visa automatically means you have an A-Number.

I went through my previous USCIS notices and immigration documents before completing my forms. If you have a green card or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), the number may be shown as the USCIS Number. However, the label and location can differ depending on the document.

One thing I learned during my own paperwork is that the USCIS Online Account Number and A-Number are different identifiers. I initially thought they were interchangeable, but they're not.

I would recommend checking the instructions for the exact USCIS form you're completing. If the form asks for an A-Number and you don't have one, follow that form's instructions rather than entering another number just because it looks similar.

You can also check official USCIS guidance for the terminology. Hope that helps.

My understanding is that an A-Number is an immigration identification number assigned by USCIS to certain non-U.S. citizens. It isn't the same as your Green Card card number.

For an OCI application, I'd enter it exactly according to the current application instructions. If you're unsure because your documents show different numbers, it's better to verify rather than guess.

If you're a Green Card holder, look at the front of the card for the USCIS. That's generally your A-Number, although it may be displayed without the “A” prefix.

I also found my A-Number on older USCIS paperwork. I'd compare the number across your documents before entering it.