What Is an Alien Number (A-Number)?
- info4716039
- May 6
- 2 min read
A Simple Guide for Immigrants 🌍
The Alien Registration Number (also known as the A-Number) is a unique number consisting of seven, eight, or nine digits assigned by the U.S. government to certain immigrants. Think of it as your personal identification number within the immigration system — much like the Social Security Number (SSN) is for U.S. citizens.
✅ You might see it written like this:
A# 123456789
A# 01234567
A# 1234567
This number stays with you for life and is used by agencies such as USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services), ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), and EOIR (Executive Office for Immigration Review) to identify you and track your immigration history 📂.
🧾 Where Can I Find My A-Number?
Your A-Number may appear on various documents depending on your immigration status. Here are some examples:
🔹 Green Card (Permanent Resident Card) – Found on the front of the card as “USCIS#”🔹 Employment Authorization Document (EAD) – Also appears as “USCIS#”🔹 Notice of Action (Form I-797) – Look for “A#” at the top🔹 Immigration Court Documents – Found in hearing notices and other paperwork🔹 Immigrant Visa or Passport Stamp – Sometimes appears on visas issued by U.S. consulates
💡 Tip: If your number begins with an “A” followed by 7 or 8 digits, it’s your A-Number — even if it’s written in a slightly different format.
🤔 Who Gets an A-Number?
Not everyone who enters the U.S. is automatically issued an A-Number. These are some of the most common situations in which one is assigned:
🔸 People applying for a Green Card (adjustment of status)🔸 Individuals in removal (deportation) proceedings🔸 Asylum seekers or refugees🔸 Applicants for work permits (EAD)🔸 Individuals submitting petitions or applications to USCIS
Visitors (such as tourists or F-1 student visa holders) typically do not receive an A-Number unless they file an application with USCIS.
📚 Why Is the A-Number Important?
This number is extremely important for tracking your immigration case and identifying your official records. Here's why:
📌 It’s used when submitting immigration forms to USCIS📌 Helps attorneys and officials locate your file📌 Required to check your case status in Immigration Court online📌 Used when requesting your immigration file through a FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) request📌 Allows you to follow your complete immigration history in the U.S.
🚨 Never share your A-Number carelessly — it is personal and sensitive information.
✅ Final Reflection
If you already know your A-Number — great! 🎉 Keep it safe and always include it when communicating with immigration authorities. If you didn’t know what it was before — now you do! 💪
Immigration processes can be overwhelming — but understanding key concepts like the Alien Number helps you feel more informed and empowered when it comes to your case.
📞 Need Help Understanding Your Immigration Status?
At De Maio Law, we’re here to help with all your immigration needs. Whether you’re just starting out or seeking clarity on your current case, we’re only a phone call away!
📍 Contact us today at (786) 232-9120 to schedule your consultation.
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