General Immigration Questions
What is an Alien Registration Number and where do I find it?
Also known as an A-Number, your Alien Registration Number is an 8 or 9 digit number that can be found on a variety of documents from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the former INS.… Continue Reading →
What is a USCIS certified translation?
A certified translation is essentially a sworn statement affirming the translator’s ability to translate a document from the original language to the English language accurately.
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Form I-551 and the ADIT Stamp Explained
Form I-551 is the form number for a green card. It is proof of a foreign national’s immigration status to live and work permanently in the United States.
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What is a USCIS online account number?
Not everyone has a USCIS online account number or even needs an account. We’ll explain if this is something you need and how to create one if necessary.
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Where is the visa number on a U.S. visa?
Over time, the U.S. Department of State has changed the location of the visa number. These examples may help you find your visa number. … Continue Reading →
What is the difference between an immigrant visa and nonimmigrant visa?
The United States grants immigrant and nonimmigrant visas to foreign-born persons that want to enter the United States, but the visas have very different purposes.… Continue Reading →
What is Form AR-11?
Foreign nationals residing in the United States use Form AR-11, Alien’s Change of Address, to report a change of address with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). … Continue Reading →
What is Form G-1145?
Form G-1145, e-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance, is an optional form that is used to request an electronic notification (text and/or email) when USCIS accepts your immigration application. … Continue Reading →
Where can I find my Social Security Number?
A Social Security number (SSN) is a nine-digit number that is generally issued to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and certain (working) nonimmigrants. You can find the number on a Social Security card and other documents.… Continue Reading →
Guidelines for Signing USCIS Forms
Generally, all USCIS applications and petitions require an original “wet ink” signature. Use black ink and sign as you would sign with the name you would use for any legal document. Here are some guidelines for signing USCIS forms.… Continue Reading →
Your Green Card Number Explained
Your green card number is a unique 13-number that refers to your immigration case. It’s different than your alien registration number (A-Number) or USCIS number. You can find it on your green card.… Continue Reading →
Can I use my married name when filing this USCIS form?
Whenever preparing USCIS forms, you’ll need to use your current legal name. If you are married, your current legal name includes your married name.… Continue Reading →
Where do I find my permanent resident card number?
Your permanent resident card number is a unique 13-number that refers to your immigration case. It’s different than your alien registration number (A-Number) or USCIS number. You can find it on your green card.… Continue Reading →
What are the U visa requirements?
The U visa is a nonimmigrant visa that is reserved for victims of crime who assist law enforcement. The must be willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the criminal activity.… Continue Reading →
First Name Unknown: FNU on Visas and Other Documents
It’s customary to have only one name in several other parts of the world. This has created a problem for U.S. immigration officials. These American visa applicants end up with the name FNU for “first name unknown.”… Continue Reading →
Border Crossing Card Explained
A border crossing card (BCC) is an immigration identification card for Mexican citizens to temporarily visit the United States. It is basically a B-1/B-2 visa with certain privileges and restrictions.… Continue Reading →
U.S. Visa Stamp Explained
If the U.S. embassy or consulate granted you a U.S. visa, the officer likely placed a visa stamp inside your passport. Here’s how to read it.… Continue Reading →
What is a Labor Condition Application (LCA)?
The Labor Condition Application is a requisite step for a U.S. employer that wants to hire a foreign national worker in the H-1B, H-1B, and E-3 categories.… Continue Reading →
How to Apply for a U.S. Non-Immigrant Visa (DS-160)
A citizen or national of a foreign country who wants to visit the United States generally must first obtain a non-immigrant visa. Here’s how to apply. … Continue Reading →
What is a matrícula consular card?
The Mexican government’s consulate offices will issue the matrícula consular card to Mexican nationals living outside of Mexico. See how it helps Mexican nationals living in the United States.… Continue Reading →