Understanding the Alien Registration Number
The alien registration number—commonly referred to as the A-Number—is a unique seven- to nine-digit identifier assigned by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to non-citizens living in the United States. This number is critical for managing immigration records, tracking cases, and ensuring legal identification within the U.S. immigration system.
At Syed Professional Services, we’ve seen many immigrants confused about what their alien registration number means or how to find it. This article clears up those doubts and helps you understand why this number is so important.
What Is an Alien Registration Number?
An alien registration number (A-Number) is a permanent identification code assigned to foreign nationals who interact with the U.S. immigration system. Think of it as a Social Security Number—but for immigration purposes.
It appears on key documents such as your:
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Green Card (Permanent Resident Card)
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Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
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Immigrant Visa Stamp
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USCIS correspondence letters
Your alien registration number will always begin with an “A” followed by a series of numbers—for example, A123-456-789.
Why the Alien Registration Number Is Important
Your alien registration number serves as your official identity within the USCIS system. It connects all your immigration records, petitions, applications, and case history. Without it, USCIS cannot accurately identify or process your information.
This number allows you to:
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Track your case online
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File future immigration applications
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Renew your Green Card or work permit
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Verify your immigration status with employers or agencies
Losing your alien registration number can create delays and confusion in your immigration journey.
Who Receives an Alien Registration Number?
Not everyone who visits the United States receives an alien registration number. It’s generally issued to individuals who:
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Apply for permanent residency (Green Card)
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File for asylum or refugee status
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Receive a work permit (EAD)
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Are placed in removal (deportation) proceedings
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Adjust status from a temporary visa to immigrant status
If you’ve only visited the U.S. on a tourist or business visa (B-1/B-2), you likely don’t have an alien registration number.
The Structure of the Alien Registration Number
The alien registration number is usually formatted as A###-###-###, though older versions may have fewer digits. Newer systems use a 9-digit format for consistency. Always include the “A” prefix when writing your number—it distinguishes your ID from other USCIS identifiers.
How to Locate Your Alien Registration Number
You can find your registration number in several places:
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Green Card (Form I-551): Located on the front, next to “USCIS#”
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EAD Card (Form I-766): Found near the top under “USCIS#”
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Immigrant Visa: Printed on the visa stamp in your passport
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I-797 Notice of Action: Appears under “USCIS A#”
If you have multiple immigration documents, your registration number should remain the same across all.
What to Do If You Lose Your Alien Registration Number
If you can’t find your registration number, don’t panic. You can:
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Retrieve it from past immigration correspondence
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Contact USCIS through their helpline
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Submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request
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Consult your immigration lawyer or service provider
At Syed Professional Services, we often assist clients in recovering lost registration numbers safely and efficiently.
Do You Need to Renew Your Alien Registration Number?
The registration number itself never expires—it’s yours for life. However, the documents containing it (like a Green Card or EAD) do expire and must be renewed. Even if your card expires, your registration number remains valid.
Alien Registration Number vs. USCIS Case Number
One of the most common confusions immigrants face is mixing up the registration number with the USCIS case number.
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The registration number identifies you as an individual.
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The USCIS case number identifies a specific application or petition.
You may have several case numbers over time but only one registration number.
Alien Registration Number for Students and Workers
If you are in the U.S. on an F-1 or J-1 visa, you typically won’t receive a registration number unless you apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Adjustment of Status. Once you apply for work authorization, USCIS assigns your registration number to the EAD card.
Alien Registration Number in Refugee and Asylum Cases
Refugees and asylees are issued a registration number immediately upon approval of their case. This number is essential for tracking their progress toward permanent residency and citizenship.
How the Alien Registration Number Helps in Naturalization
When applying for U.S. citizenship using Form N-400, you’ll be asked to provide your registration number. It links your entire immigration history to your naturalization application. Inaccurate or missing numbers can delay your case processing.
Why Your Registration Number Matters for Taxes
The registration number is also useful for tax identification purposes. When filing taxes as a non-citizen, it may be used alongside your ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) to verify immigration status or employment authorization.
At Syed Professional Services, our tax and immigration experts work together to ensure clients correctly link their registration number to their tax filings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Your Registration Number
Avoid these frequent errors:
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Forgetting to include the “A” prefix
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Mixing up the registration number with a receipt number
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Entering incorrect digits on USCIS forms
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Sharing your registration number publicly (identity risk)
Keeping your registration number confidential protects you from fraud and immigration delays.
How to Protect Your Registration Number
Your registration number is sensitive information. Never post it online or share it with unverified individuals. Only provide it to official agencies, attorneys, or accredited service providers like Syed Professional Services.
FAQs About Registration Number
What is the registration number?
It’s a unique identification number assigned by USCIS to immigrants in the U.S.
Where can I find my registration number?
On your Green Card, EAD, or USCIS correspondence.
Is the registration number the same as a Social Security Number?
No. The SSN is for employment and tax purposes, while the registration number identifies your immigration record.
Do all immigrants have a registration number?
No, only those who file for permanent residence, asylum, or similar processes.
Can I change my registration number?
No. It’s a permanent identifier for your lifetime.
What should I do if I lose it?
Contact USCIS or an immigration professional like Syed Professional Services to recover it safely.
Conclusion: Understanding and Protecting Your Registration Number for Success
Your registration number is the backbone of your immigration identity in the United States. From visa processing to citizenship, it connects all your records and ensures your legal presence is properly documented.
At Syed Professional Services, we guide clients through every immigration step—from finding their registration number to filing complex USCIS forms. Protect it, memorize it, and always keep it secure—it’s your key to a successful immigration journey.
