AR-11: A Complete Guide to USCIS Change of Address

This guide will walk you through the process of filing Form AR-11, explaining who needs to file it, when to file, and how to proceed with USCIS Change of Address.

By:

Chelsea Spinos

Chelsea Spinos is a contributing writer for Manifest Law. She covers all topics related to U.S. visas and green cards. She is passionate about helping people navigate their immigration journey with clarity and confidence.

Reviewer:

Simon Craven, Esq.

Simon Craven is an immigration attorney with 12+ years of experience working on thousands of successful immigration cases. Simon is passionate about US immigration and helping people.

8 min read • Aug 02, 2024

Key takeaways

Form AR-11, also known as the Alien's Change of Address Card, is the official document non-U.S. citizens use to submit USCIS Change of Address.

Non-U.S. citizens must inform USCIS within 10 days of moving to a new address if they'll be in the U.S. for more than 30 days. This applies to permanent residents, students, and temporary visa holders.

While online submission for USCIS Change of Address through your USCIS account offers immediate confirmation and faster processing, mailing the form is also an option.

Failing to update your USCIS Change of Address can lead to missed communications, important notices, or deadlines related to your immigration status, potentially causing delays or complications with your applications or petitions.

There is no filing fee for AR-11 for USCIS Change of Address.

Keeping your address up-to-date with USCIS is a crucial part of maintaining your immigration status. Form AR-11, also known as the Alien's Change of Address Card, is the official document used to make a USCIS Change of Address notice .

Whether you're a student, worker, or permanent resident, you're required to inform USCIS within 10 days of moving to a new address if you'll be in the U.S. for more than 30 days.

This guide will walk you through the process of filing Form AR-11, explaining who needs to file it, when to file, and how to submit a USCIS Change of Address.

Woman filing form while other person packs boxes

What is Form AR-11?

Form AR-11, also known as the Alien’s Change of Address Card, is a simple yet crucial form that non-U.S. citizens need to fill out whenever they move to a new address in the United States.

If you’re living in the U.S. for more than 30 days and you change your address, you have to let the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) know within 10 days.

Submitting a USCIS Change of Address makes sure all your immigration records are up-to-date and you continue to receive important mail, like notices about your immigration status or upcoming appointments.

Information Needed for AR-11 (USCIS Change of Address)

To submit Form AR-11, you'll need to provide several pieces of information to ensure your USCIS can accurately make your change of address. Here's a list of what you need to include:

Personal Information:

Full name (first, middle, and last names)
Date of birth
Country of birth

Contact Information:

Current address (the address you are moving from)
New address (the address you are moving to)
Email address (optional but helpful for confirmation!)

Identification Information:

Alien Registration Number (A-Number), if applicable
USCIS Online Account Number, if you have one

Immigration Status:

Your current immigration status (e.g., F-1 student, H-1B worker, etc.)
Date of last entry into the United States (if applicable)
Port of entry where you last entered the United States (if applicable)

Family Information (if applicable):

Information about your dependents or family members who are also non-U.S. citizens and living with you, such as their full names and A-Numbers.

Additional Details:

The date you moved to your new address

To submit Form AR-11, you'll need to provide several pieces of information to ensure your USCIS can accurately make your change of address. Here's a list of what you need to include:

Personal Information:

Full name (first, middle, and last names)
Date of birth
Country of birth

Contact Information:

Current address (the address you are moving from)
New address (the address you are moving to)
Email address (optional but helpful for confirmation!)

Identification Information:

Alien Registration Number (A-Number), if applicable
USCIS Online Account Number, if you have one

Immigration Status:

Your current immigration status (e.g., F-1 student, H-1B worker, etc.)
Date of last entry into the United States (if applicable)
Port of entry where you last entered the United States (if applicable)

Family Information (if applicable):

Information about your dependents or family members who are also non-U.S. citizens and living with you, such as their full names and A-Numbers.

Additional Details:

The date you moved to your new address

What is A number in AR-11?

The A-Number, or Alien Registration Number, is a special ID number given to non-U.S. citizens by USCIS. It usually has eight or nine digits and helps USCIS keep track of your immigration history and records.

You can find your A-Number on documents like your Green Card, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or any official notices from USCIS.

When you're filling out Form AR-11 to give USCIS Change of Address, including your A-Number ensures that all your important mail and updates about your immigration status reach you without any issues.

For more details about where to find your A-Number and why it’s important, check out our comprehensive guide here.

You can find your A-Number on documents like your Green Card, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or any official notices from USCIS.

For more details about where to find your A-Number and why it’s important, check out our comprehensive guide here.

When to Make USCIS Change of Address

Keeping your address updated with USCIS is essential to stay informed about your immigration status and receive important notifications without delay. Here’s a detailed look at who needs to make USCIS Change of Address and the specific situations where it’s necessary:

Permanent Residents: If you have a Green Card, whether it's the 2-year conditional version or the 10-year unconditional version, you’re required to notify USCIS within 10 days of any address change.

For example, if you move to a new apartment or a different city, it's crucial to update your address so that USCIS can reach you with important information regarding your residency status or any renewal notices.

Non-Citizens with Temporary Visas: If you're in the U.S. on a temporary visa, such as an H-1B work visa or an F-1 student visa, you also need to update USCIS within 10 days of moving. This is important to avoid any potential issues with your visa status or missing out on crucial updates from USCIS.

For instance, if you change your residence while on an H-1B visa, updating your address ensures that you don’t miss any notices related to your work authorization.

Exemptions: Some non-immigrant visitors are not required to change addresses with USCIS. This includes:

Foreign diplomats and government officials with A visas

Government representatives to international organizations with G visas

Tourists and visitors on a visa waiver program who are staying for less than 30 days

U.S. Citizens: If you’re a U.S. citizen who has sponsored an immigrant by filling out Form I-864, the “Affidavit of Support,” you should inform USCIS within 30 days of any address change. While it’s not legally mandatory and won’t result in penalties if missed, updating your address helps prevent delays or complications for the immigrant you sponsored.

For example, if you’ve moved to a new home and fail to update your address, it might cause issues in processing your sponsored immigrant’s application.

Not sure if you’re eligible for AR-11?

Request free consultation
with Manifest Law today

Book a free consultation with Manifest Law. Our team will ensure you meet the eligibility requirements and help you gather evidence needed.

Request a consultation

How to Submit USCIS Change of Address

Changing your address with USCIS is a straightforward process, but it's important to do it right to keep everything running smoothly.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for both non-U.S. citizens and U.S. citizens:

Changing your address with USCIS is a straightforward process, but it's important to do it right to keep everything running smoothly.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for both non-U.S. citizens and U.S. citizens:

For Non-U.S. Citizens

Step 1: Gather Your Information

Make sure you have your current address, new address, Alien Registration Number (A-Number), and any details about your current immigration status (e.g., visa type).

Step 2: Fill Out Form AR-11

Online: The USCIS Change of Address tool will be discontinued after July 25, 2024. Instead, you can easily submit your change of address through your USCIS online account.

By Mail: If you prefer to mail it, download Form AR-11 from the USCIS website, fill it out with your new address and other required details, and send it to the address listed in the form’s instructions.

Step 3: Update Any Pending Applications

If you have any pending immigration applications or petitions, you’ll need to update your address for each one separately. You can do this through your USCIS online account or by contacting USCIS directly.

Step 4: Confirm Your Update:

If you file online, you’ll receive an immediate confirmation.

If you mail the form, keep a copy of the form and any proof of mailing for your records.

Step 5: Check for Confirmation:

After submitting, it’s a good idea to check the status of your address update through your USCIS online account or by contacting USCIS to make sure everything was processed correctly.

Step 1: Gather Your Information

Make sure you have your current address, new address, Alien Registration Number (A-Number), and any details about your current immigration status (e.g., visa type).

Step 2: Fill Out Form AR-11

Online: The USCIS Change of Address tool will be discontinued after July 25, 2024. Instead, you can easily submit your change of address through your USCIS online account.

Step 3: Update Any Pending Applications

Step 4: Confirm Your Update:

If you file online, you’ll receive an immediate confirmation.

If you mail the form, keep a copy of the form and any proof of mailing for your records.

Step 5: Check for Confirmation:

After submitting, it’s a good idea to check the status of your address update through your USCIS online account or by contacting USCIS to make sure everything was processed correctly.

For U.S. Citizens

Step 1: Update Your Address

Online: The USCIS Change of Address tool will be discontinued after July 25, 2024. Instead, you can easily submit your change of address through your USCIS online account.
By Mail: Alternatively, you can send a written notice to USCIS with your new address and details of your sponsorship. Include your name, A-Number of the person you sponsored, and any relevant case numbers.

Step 2: Follow Up

Even though updating your address is not legally required for U.S. citizens, it’s still good practice to ensure your sponsored immigrant doesn’t face delays or issues. Check for any confirmation or follow up with USCIS if needed.

Step 1: Update Your Address

Online: The USCIS Change of Address tool will be discontinued after July 25, 2024. Instead, you can easily submit your change of address through your USCIS online account.
By Mail: Alternatively, you can send a written notice to USCIS with your new address and details of your sponsorship. Include your name, A-Number of the person you sponsored, and any relevant case numbers.

Step 2: Follow Up

Even though updating your address is not legally required for U.S. citizens, it’s still good practice to ensure your sponsored immigrant doesn’t face delays or issues. Check for any confirmation or follow up with USCIS if needed.

Note: U.S. citizens generally do not need to complete Form AR-11. However, there are specific situations where you will need to notify USCIS of an address change, particularly if you have sponsored an immigrant.

How to Make USCIS Change of Address Online

Important: Starting July 25th, 2024, the USCIS Change of Address tool will be discontinued. To update your address with USCIS, you'll need to use a USCIS online account.

If you don't already have an online account, you can easily create one by following the steps on our How to Create a USCIS Online Account page.

For the most up-to-date information, please visit the USCIS Change of Address website.

If you don't already have an online account, you can easily create one by following the steps on our How to Create a USCIS Online Account page.

For the most up-to-date information, please visit the USCIS Change of Address website.

How long does AR-11 take?

The processing time for Form AR-11, the Alien’s Change of Address Card, can vary. Here’s typically how long it takes to process USCIS Change of Address:

Online submission

Mail submission

When you submit Form AR-11 online using your USCIS online account or the Change of Address tool, you receive immediate confirmation that your address has been updated.

The actual update in the USCIS system is usually processed quickly, often within a few days.

If you choose to mail Form AR-11, it will take longer due to mailing times. This can take several days to a week or more, depending on your location and the postal service.

Once received by USCIS, the form typically takes a few weeks to be processed and the address change to be reflected in their system.

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Is there a fee for filing Form AR-11?

Nope! There is no fee for filing Form AR-11. It’s a free process to update your address with USCIS, so you can submit the form without any additional cost.

How to Check the Status of Your USCIS Change of Address Request

After you’ve submitted your USCIS Change of Address request, you’ll want to make sure everything went through smoothly. Checking the status of your change of address on the USCIS website is straight-forward:

Step 1: Create or Log In to Your USCIS Online Account

Visit the USCIS website.
If you already have an account, click on the “Sign In” button and enter your login details.
If you don’t have an account yet, click on “Sign Up” to create one. Follow the prompts to set up your account.

Step 2: Navigate to Your Profile

Once logged in, go to your account dashboard.
Click on your profile or the “Account” tab to access your personal information and case updates.

Step 3: Check for Address Update Confirmation

In your profile or account dashboard, look for any notifications or updates regarding your recent address change request.
You should see a confirmation of your address update if it has been processed successfully.

Step 4: Review Pending Cases

If you have any pending applications or petitions, click on the “My Cases” or “My Applications” section.
Check the status of each case to ensure your new address is reflected. This is crucial for receiving any correspondence related to these applications.

If you don’t see a confirmation of your USCIS Change of Address, don’t worry—USCIS is there to help. Just click on the “Contact Us” link on the USCIS website to find the right contact information or customer service options. They’ll assist you in sorting out any issues.

Step 1: Create or Log In to Your USCIS Online Account

Visit the USCIS website.
If you already have an account, click on the “Sign In” button and enter your login details.
If you don’t have an account yet, click on “Sign Up” to create one. Follow the prompts to set up your account.

Step 2: Navigate to Your Profile

Once logged in, go to your account dashboard.
Click on your profile or the “Account” tab to access your personal information and case updates.

Step 3: Check for Address Update Confirmation

In your profile or account dashboard, look for any notifications or updates regarding your recent address change request.
You should see a confirmation of your address update if it has been processed successfully.

Step 4: Review Pending Cases

If you have any pending applications or petitions, click on the “My Cases” or “My Applications” section.
Check the status of each case to ensure your new address is reflected. This is crucial for receiving any correspondence related to these applications.

Do I need an immigration attorney to file AR-11?

You don’t necessarily need an immigration attorney to file Form AR-11 for USCIS Change of Address. You can complete and submit the form yourself online or by mail. However, if you have a complex immigration situation, such as pending applications or petitions, or if you’re unsure about any part of the process, consulting an immigration attorney can be very helpful.

If you have questions or need assistance with the AR-11 form or other immigration matters, our team of immigration attorneys at Manifest Law can help.

Book a free consultation today.

If you have questions or need assistance with the AR-11 form or other immigration matters, our team of immigration attorneys at Manifest Law can help.

Book a free consultation today.

Not sure if you’re eligible for AR-11?

Request free consultation
with Manifest Law today

Book a free consultation with Manifest Law. Our team will ensure you meet the eligibility requirements and help you gather evidence needed.

Request a consultation

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to process USCIS Change of Address?

The time it takes for USCIS to process a change of address can vary. If you file Form AR-11 online, you usually receive immediate confirmation, and the update in their system is often processed within a few days. If you mail the form, it may take several weeks to process and update your address in their records. It’s always a good idea to check for confirmation and follow up if needed.

No, unfortunately Form I-751 cannot currently be filed online. The form must be completed and submitted by mail to the appropriate USCIS Lockbox or service center.

When filing by mail, make sure that you use the correct address based on your location and the specific instructions provided by USCIS.

Also, make sure to include all required supporting documents, the correct I-751 filing fee, and an accurately completed form I-751 to avoid delays in processing.

I’ve updated my address with the US Postal Service (USPS). Do I still need to file Form AR-11?

Yes, you still need to file Form AR-11 with USCIS even if you’ve updated your address with the US Postal Service (USPS). The USPS change of address service only forwards your mail — it doesn’t update your immigration records with USCIS. Filing Form AR-11 ensures that your immigration documents and notifications are sent to your new address.

What if I move again after filing Form AR-11?

If you move again after filing Form AR-11, you’ll need to submit a new Form AR-11 to update your address once more. Each time you move, it’s important to notify USCIS to keep your records accurate and avoid missing any important updates or notices.

Do I need to file Form AR-11 if I move temporarily?

Yes, even if your move is temporary, you should file Form AR-11 with USCIS to update your address. This ensures that USCIS has the correct address for you during your stay and can reach you with any important information.

Can I file Form AR-11 on behalf of my family members?

You can file Form AR-11 on behalf of your family members if you have their consent, but ideally, each person should handle their own form. This ensures that each individual's address is updated correctly and that USCIS has accurate information for everyone in your household.

What happens if I don't submit a USCIS Change of Address?

If you don’t notify USCIS of your change of address, you might face several issues, though severe penalties like fines or deportation are rare. Not updating your address can lead to missed communications, important notices, or deadlines related to your immigration status, which could result in delays or complications with your applications or petitions

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* Speak to a member of the Manifest team to discuss how we can help you achieve your immigration goals

Avi Goldenberg

Principal attorney at Manifest Law

Take the First Step:

Request a free call!

Discuss the visa options of interest to you

General information about timelines, fees, requirements for various visa options

Information on Manifest fees, terms and process

Full clarity and transparency every step along the way

Request an evaluation

* Speak to a member of the Manifest team to discuss how we can help you achieve your immigration goals

Avi Goldenberg

Principal attorney at Manifest Law

Take the First Step:

Request a free call!

Discuss the visa options of interest to you

General information about timelines, fees, requirements for various visa options

Information on Manifest fees, terms and process

Full clarity and transparency every step along the way

Request an evaluation

* Speak to a member of the Manifest team to discuss how we can help you achieve your immigration goals

Avi Goldenberg

Principal attorney at Manifest Law

In this blog article:

What is Form AR-11?

Information Needed for AR-11 (USCIS Change of Address)

What is A number in AR-11?

When to Make USCIS Change of Address

How to Submit USCIS Change of Address

How to Make USCIS Change of Address Online

How long does AR-11 take?

How to Check the Status of Your USCIS Change of Address Request

Do I need an immigration attorney to file AR-11?

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