What is it?
An alien registration number is a unique nine-digit number assigned to individuals, not United States citizens, including permanent residents, non-immigrants, and others who are temporarily in the country. It is also known as an A-Number or Alien Number. The government uses the alien registration number to keep track of individuals’ immigration status and activities. It is included in a person’s immigration paperwork, such as their Green Card, Immigrant Visa Stamp, or Visa Foil. It is typically assigned when they go through Consular Processing or file an Immigration Form. Immigrants with an alien registration number are also eligible to obtain a Social Security Number, which is required to work in the United States. If you are an F-1 visa holder or F-1 student visa holder, your immigration paperwork may include your Alien Number and other information about your immigration status. An alien registration number is significant because it is required for various activities and benefits in the United States. These can include applying for a driver’s license, opening a bank account, or enrolling in school. It is essential to keep your alien registration number current and up-to-date. If you lose your card, you may need to apply for a new one or have it reissued by an immigration officer. Additionally, if you change your immigration status, such as from a non-immigrant to an immigrant visa, you may need to obtain a new number.
How do I get one?
To obtain an alien registration number, you must go through the immigration process. When you apply for an immigration document or status, such as a green card or a work permit, you will be assigned an alien registration number. The number is a unique identification code that will be used to track your immigration file. The first time you apply for an immigration document or status, you will be asked to provide biographic and biometric information, such as your name, date of birth, country of origin, and fingerprints. This information will be used to generate your alien registration number. Once assigned, your number will remain the same for the duration of your stay in the United States, regardless of any changes in your immigration status. It is important to note that obtaining an alien registration number may vary depending on your immigration status and the type of immigration document you are applying for. To ensure that you receive the correct guidance, it is advisable to seek the assistance of an immigration professional or consult with the relevant authorities.
Why do I need one?
An Alien Registration Number (ARN) is a unique identifier that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) assigns to non-US citizens. Your ARN is an essential component of your Immigration Status, and it helps DHS to keep track of your activities while you are in the United States. The Immigration Process is complex, and having an ARN can make navigating this process easier. When you apply for a visa, green card, or any other immigration benefit, you must provide your ARN as proof of your identity and status. Your ARN can also access various government services, including healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. Without an ARN, it can be difficult to prove your legal status in the US, which could limit your access to these services.
Additionally, your ARN is essential because it helps the government to monitor your presence in the United States. This is especially important if you are on a temporary visa, such as a work or student visa, as the government needs to ensure that you comply with the terms of your passport and are not overstaying your welcome.
In short, having an ARN is essential if you are a non-US citizen who wants to live, work, or study in the United States. It is a critical component of your Immigration Status, which you must provide whenever you interact with government agencies.
How long is it valid?
Your alien registration number, also known as an A-Number, is a unique identification number assigned to foreign nationals by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This number is crucial for those seeking to live and work legally in the United States. Your A-Number is typically valid for the duration of your immigration status. For example, if you are in the United States on a temporary visa, your A-Number will remain valid for as long as your passport is valid. If you have been granted permanent residency, your A-Number will be valid indefinitely. It is important to note that your A-Number is not a form of immigration status. Instead, it is simply a means of tracking your immigration process and verifying your identity with USCIS. If your immigration status changes, such as becoming a U.S. citizen, you will no longer need your A-Number. It is essential to keep your A-Number up-to-date throughout the immigration process, as it is used to track all of your filings and applications. If you need to update your immigration status or file petitions or applications with USCIS, you must provide your A-Number.
In summary, your A-Number is valid for as long as your immigration status is good. Keep it up-to-date and use it to keep track of your immigration process with USCIS.
Do I need to renew it?
If you have an alien registration number, also known as an A-number, you may wonder if you need to renew it at any point. The answer is no – your A-number does not expire. However, it is essential to note that your immigration status can change over time, and you may need to go through the immigration process again if you wish to extend or change your status. Your A-number is a unique identifier assigned to you by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It is used to track your immigration status and history in the US. Once assigned an A-number, you can apply for various immigration benefits, including visas, green cards, and citizenship.
However, just because your A-number does not expire does not mean your immigration status is permanent. If you are here on a temporary visa, you must renew your passport periodically to remain in the US legally. If you wish to change your immigration status from a quick visa holder to a green card holder, you must go through the immigration process again. It is essential to stay aware of your immigration status and the requirements for maintaining it. Failure to do so could result in being out of class and subject to deportation. Suppose you have any questions about your A-number or your immigration status. In that case, it is best to consult with an immigration attorney or USCIS directly to ensure you comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
What if I lose my card?
Losing an important document can be a stressful experience. If you lose your alien registration card, it is essential to act quickly to ensure that you do not face any issues with your immigration status. Your unknown registration card is proof of your legal immigration status in the United States, so it is essential to replace it as soon as possible. First, you should report the loss of your card to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) by filing Form I-90. This form is used to apply for a replacement green card or to renew an expiring one. Once you file Form I-90, you will receive a receipt notice from USCIS acknowledging that your application has been received. You can use this receipt notice as evidence of your lawful status in the United States until your new card arrives. It is important to note that if your alien registration card is lost or stolen, you must also report the incident to local law enforcement. Your card contains personal information that could be used for identity theft or other criminal purposes. Replacing your alien registration card is an integral part of the immigration process, so it is essential that you follow the proper procedures to obtain a new one. Although losing your card can be a hassle, it is not the world’s end. With the right steps, you can quickly and easily get back on track with your immigration status and continue to pursue your dreams in the United States. Read more about the Brazilian birth certificate translation.
Can I get a new one?
You can apply for a replacement if you lose your alien registration card or it becomes damaged or stolen. However, getting a new card depends on your current Immigration Status. If you are a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR), you can file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, to replace your lost or damaged card. You must pay the filing fee, submit a copy of your previous card, and provide proof of identity and current Immigration Status. If you are a non-immigrant, such as a temporary worker or student, you must file Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Document, to replace your lost or damaged card. The process is similar to the one for LPRs, but you must also provide evidence of your non-immigrant status. You should not apply for a replacement card if your Immigration Status has changed or if your card was lost or stolen after you left the United States. In these cases, you must undergo the Immigration Process to obtain a new visa or status.
In any case, it’s best to act quickly if you lose your card, as it could lead to difficulties traveling, working, or proving your Immigration Status. If you have any questions or concerns, it’s recommended that you speak with an immigration attorney or consult with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
How much does it cost?
The cost of obtaining an Alien Registration Number varies depending on your Immigration Status and the Immigration Process you are going through. If you are applying for a nonimmigrant visa or adjustment of status, the fee is included in the application process. However, you must pay a fee for using a new Alien Registration Number or a replacement card. According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the current price for obtaining a recent Alien Registration Number or replacing a lost or stolen card is $455. This fee may change over time, so check the USCIS website for the most up-to-date information. It’s important to note that some individuals may be eligible for fee waivers or reductions based on their financial situation or other exceptional circumstances. If you believe you may qualify for a fee waiver, contact USCIS for more information.
While obtaining an Alien Registration Number may come with a cost, it’s an essential step in the Immigration Process that can provide significant benefits and opportunities for individuals in the United States.
Importance of Alien Registration Number for Non-Citizens
For non-citizens living in the United States, the alien registration number is a crucial aspect of their immigration status. An unknown registration number is essential for non-citizens as it is a unique identification number used by USCIS to track and manage their immigration status. It also enables them to obtain certain benefits, such as work permits and travel documents. Without an alien registration number, non-citizens cannot work legally or obtain essential documents required for travel or employment. Therefore, getting an unknown registration number is vital to the immigration process.
Furthermore, the alien registration number also plays a vital role in immigration proceedings. It is used to identify individuals in immigration databases and records. Non-citizens must have their strange registration number on any immigration applications they submit to USCIS, and they should be able to provide it if requested by immigration officials.
Are Alien Registration Numbers unique to the United States?
Yes, Alien Registration Numbers are specific to the United States and are not used by other countries.
Can I update my Alien Registration Number if it becomes outdated?
No, you cannot update your Alien Registration Number. It is a permanent identifier assigned to you based on your immigration status.
Can I apply for a green card without an Alien Registration Number?
Generally, you need an Alien Registration Number to apply for a green card. However, specific immigrant categories may not require an Alien Registration Number during the initial stages of the application process.
Is an Alien Registration Number the same as a USCIS receipt number?
No, an Alien Registration Number is different from a USCIS receipt number. The receipt number is generated when you file an application or petition with USCIS, while the Alien Registration Number is assigned to individuals for identification purposes.
Do I need to memorize my Alien Registration Number?
While it is unnecessary to memorize your Alien Registration Number, it is advisable to keep it easily accessible in case you need it for official purposes or when filling out immigration-related forms.
