What the Green Card Alien Number and Card Number Are
The Green Card Alien Number and the Card Number are two distinct identifiers shown on a Permanent Resident Card. The Alien Number, also called the A-number, is a unique identifying number assigned by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to track an individual’s immigration records. The Card Number is the printed string of letters and digits on the physical Green Card itself. Both numbers appear on most Green Card designs, but they serve different purposes and follow different formatting rules.
Where to Find the Alien Number (A-Number) on Your Card
On unexpired and valid Green Cards issued after 2010, the Alien Number is typically located in the top right corner of the front of the card. It is often preceded by the word "USCIS#" or simply labeled as "A#". The A-number is a separate identifier from the Card Number and may be printed in a slightly smaller or distinct font. For older cards, especially those issued before the widespread use of the current card design, the A-number may appear in a different location or require closer inspection. If you cannot locate it, the number may also appear on related documents such as approval notices or immigrant visa stamps.
Typical Location by Card Version
The placement of the A-number varies slightly by card generation. Recent permanent resident cards place it prominently in the upper right, while earlier versions may show it on the back or in a different corner. Some versions combine the A-number and Card Number in a single barcode area, while others keep them fully separate. In all cases, the A-number remains constant across card renewals unless an immigration status correction is officially recorded.
Understanding the Green Card Card Number
The Card Number is the alphanumeric code printed on the front of the Green Card that identifies the specific card issued to you. It usually appears near the top or middle of the card and is distinct from the Alien Number. The Card Number changes when you receive a new version of the card, such as after renewal or replacement. While it is useful for reference and verification, it does not serve as a unique identifier in USCIS systems the way the A-number does. Employers and agencies typically ask for the Alien Number when they need to verify immigration records.
Format Differences Across Cards
Card Numbers follow patterns that vary by issuance year and card type, often including letters and numbers in a fixed layout. By contrast, the Alien Number is a consistent numeric identifier (sometimes with an initial letter) assigned once and retained across renewals. Because the Card Number changes with each card, it should not be used as the primary reference for immigration status or case tracking.
Why the Alien Number Matters for Status and Employment
USCIS and other government agencies use the Alien Number as the primary key in their databases to locate your immigration record. It appears on official forms such as the I-9, Employment Authorization Document applications, and requests for evidence. Providing the correct A-number ensures that your status, work authorization, and any conditions of residence are reviewed under the correct file. The Card Number is helpful for physical identification of the card but does not link directly to your case file in agency systems.
Practical Uses at a Glance
| Identifier | Format | Changes on Renewal | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alien Number (A-number) | Numeric, sometimes with leading letter (e.g., 1234567 or A1234567) | No, remains the same | Tracking immigration records, completing government forms |
| Card Number | Alphanumeric, varies by issuance period | Yes, changes with each card | Physical card identification, quick visual reference |
Common Misconceptions and Clarifications
Some individuals assume the Card Number and Alien Number are interchangeable, but they are not. Losing a Green Card does not change your Alien Number; your case record remains tied to the original A-number. Renewing your card may produce a new Card Number, but your status and work authorization remain continuous if your underlying permission to remain is valid. If you believe your A-number has changed without a formal immigration action, it is important to verify this with USCIS records, as inaccurate changes can lead to complications.
How to Verify Your Numbers Correctly
To confirm your Alien Number and Card Number, review the front of your current Permanent Resident Card. If the card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement through USCIS Form I-90. Replacement cards typically retain the same Alien Number unless a correction has been officially made. You can also locate your A-number in USCIS correspondence, including approval notices for adjustment of status or immigrant visa documents issued by the Department of State. When in doubt, contact USCIS customer service or consult an accredited representative rather than relying on notes that may confuse the two identifiers.
When to Provide Each Number
Use your Alien Number on employment forms such as the I-9, when registering for benefits, or when filing immigration-related applications. The Card Number may be requested for general identification or to reference a specific card issuance, but it should not replace the A-number in official immigration contexts. Online portals and case checkers often require the A-number to pull up secure case information. Employers who complete E-Verify or other federal verifications will rely on the A-number to match records across government systems.
Summary of Key Distinctions
Both the Green Card Alien Number and Card Number appear on your permanent resident documentation, yet they serve distinct roles. The Alien Number is a stable identifier tied to your immigration record, while the Card Number identifies the physical card and changes with renewals. Knowing where each appears on your card, when it changes, and which one to use in different situations helps reduce errors and supports smooth interactions with employers and government agencies.