Alien Registration Number: A Guide to Understanding Your Permanent Resident Card

If you are a non-U.S. citizen living in the United States, you may have heard of the terms “alien registration number” and “permanent resident card.” These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to different things. In this article, we will delve deeper into what these terms mean and how they are related.

What is an Alien Registration Number?

An alien registration number, also known as an A-number, is a unique seven-, eight-, or nine-digit number assigned to non-U.S. citizens by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This number is used to identify individuals who are in the process of obtaining or have obtained immigration benefits, such as a green card or work permit. The format of the A-number has changed over the years, but it typically starts with an “A” followed by seven or eight digits. In some cases, the A-number may also include a letter at the end, such as “A123456789A.”

What is a Permanent Resident Card?

A permanent resident card, also known as a green card, is a document that proves an individual’s status as a lawful permanent resident (LPR) of the United States. It is a crucial document for non-U.S. citizens who wish to live and work in the country permanently. The permanent resident card contains important information, including the individual’s name, date of birth, country of birth, and most importantly, their A-number. This is why the terms “alien registration number” and “permanent resident card” are often used interchangeably.

How to Find Your Alien Registration Number

If you are a non-U.S. citizen, you may be wondering where to find your A-number. Here are a few ways to locate it:

• On your permanent resident card: As mentioned earlier, your A-number is printed on your green card. It is usually located on the back of the card, in the top right corner.
• On official immigration documents: Your A-number may also be listed on other immigration documents, such as your employment authorization card or refugee travel document.
• Through USCIS: If you cannot find your A-number on any of your documents, you can contact USCIS for assistance. They will be able to provide you with your A-number after verifying your identity.

Why is Your Alien Registration Number Important?

Your alien registration number is an essential piece of information that is used by various government agencies to track your immigration status and benefits. It is also required for certain transactions, such as filing taxes or applying for a driver’s license. Furthermore, your A-number is linked to your personal records with USCIS, which includes your immigration history, applications, and approvals. This information is crucial for maintaining your lawful status in the United States.

How to Keep Your Alien Registration Number Safe

Just like any other important document, it is essential to keep your A-number safe and secure. Here are a few tips to help you protect your alien registration number:

• Do not share it with anyone unless necessary: Your A-number is a personal identification number, and you should only share it with trusted individuals or government agencies.
• Keep your documents safe: Your A-number is printed on your permanent resident card, so make sure to keep it in a secure place.
• Be cautious when providing your A-number online: When filling out online forms, make sure that the website is secure and legitimate before entering your A-number.
• Report any lost or stolen documents: If your permanent resident card is lost or stolen, report it to USCIS immediately to prevent any potential identity theft.

Conclusion

In summary, an alien registration number is a unique identification number assigned to non-U.S. citizens by USCIS, while a permanent resident card is a document that proves an individual’s status as a lawful permanent resident. Your A-number is an essential piece of information that is used to track your immigration status and benefits, so make sure to keep it safe and secure.

FAQs

Q: Can I change my alien registration number? A: No, your A-number is a unique identifier that cannot be changed. Q: Do I need to memorize my alien registration number? A: It is not necessary to memorize your A-number, but it is helpful to have it on hand for certain transactions. Q: Can I apply for a permanent resident card without an alien registration number? A: No, you must have an A-number to apply for a green card. If you do not have one, you can contact USCIS for assistance.