To update your address with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you must submit Form AR-11, the Alien's Change of Address Card. This form ensures that immigration documents and notices are sent to your current address. Failure to file Form AR-11 promptly can result in missed communications and impact your immigration status.
Importance of Reporting Change of Address to USCIS
When you move during an ongoing immigration process, submitting the correct form for a change of address is crucial. Form AR-11, the Alien's Change of Address Card, is the designated form submitted to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to report a new address.
Reporting a change of address to USCIS ensures that all correspondence, including important notices and appointment information, reaches you without delay. Failure to update your address can result in missed deadlines, which may adversely affect your immigration status or application outcome.
Who Must Notify USCIS of Address Changes
Individuals who have a pending application, petition, or request with USCIS must notify the agency of any change of address within 10 days. This requirement applies to all noncitizens, including those with pending forms such as Form I-485, Form I-130, or Form N-400. Failure to update the address using Form AR-11 can result in missed correspondence and delays in processing.
Deadlines for Submitting a Change of Address
| Immigration Form | Form AR-11 |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To notify USCIS of your change of address |
| Deadline | Within 10 days of moving to a new address |
| Filing Methods | Online through the USCIS website or by mailing a paper Form AR-11 |
| Applicability | Required for non-U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain applicants with pending immigration cases |
| Consequences of Missing Deadline | Failure to submit Form AR-11 on time may result in delayed correspondence, application denials, or immigration status complications |
Overview of USCIS Change of Address Form (AR-11)
The USCIS Change of Address Form, also known as Form AR-11, is the primary document used for updating an address with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This form ensures that all immigration-related correspondence is sent to the correct location.
Form AR-11 can be submitted online or by mail, providing a convenient way to notify USCIS of a change in address. It is essential to complete this form within 10 days of moving to comply with immigration regulations. Timely submission of Form AR-11 helps prevent delays in immigration processing and maintains communication with the agency.
Step-by-Step Guide: Completing Form AR-11
Which immigration form must be submitted to notify a change of address in the United States?
The primary form required for updating an address with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is Form AR-11. Timely submission ensures that all immigration-related correspondence is sent to the correct address.
What is the step-by-step guide for completing Form AR-11?
Begin by downloading the latest version of Form AR-11 from the USCIS website. Fill in personal information, including your full name, date of birth, and Alien Registration Number (if applicable), followed by your old and new addresses.
How should Form AR-11 be submitted after completion?
Form AR-11 can be submitted online via the USCIS change of address portal or mailed to the USCIS address specified in the form instructions. Online submission offers immediate confirmation, reducing delays in address updates.
What important details must be double-checked before submitting Form AR-11?
Ensure that all fields are completed accurately, especially the new address and A-Number, to prevent processing errors. Review the form carefully and retain a copy for your records once submitted.
Are there any deadlines for submitting Form AR-11 after moving?
You are required to notify USCIS of the address change within 10 days of moving. Failure to update your address promptly may result in missed notices and possible penalties under immigration regulations.
Online vs. Mail Submission: Which Is Better?
For a change of address in immigration matters, Form AR-11 is submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Online submission of Form AR-11 allows for faster processing and immediate confirmation, making it a preferred option for many applicants. Mail submission is still accepted but may result in longer processing times and delayed acknowledgment.
Special Requirements for Different Visa Categories
The primary immigration form submitted to report a change of address is Form AR-11, Alien's Change of Address Card. Special requirements apply depending on the visa category held.
- Nonimmigrant Visa Holders - Must file Form AR-11 within 10 days of moving to maintain compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.
- Employment-Based Visa Holders - Required to notify both USCIS and their employer of address changes to avoid potential employment authorization issues.
- Student Visa Holders (F and M visas) - Mandated to update their address through the SEVP portal in addition to submitting Form AR-11.
Consequences of Failing to Update Address
When changing your address during an immigration process, the primary form to submit is Form AR-11, also known as the Alien's Change of Address Card. Timely submission of this form ensures that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can send important correspondence to your new address.
Failing to update your address with Form AR-11 can lead to missing critical notifications about your immigration case. This may result in delays, denial of petitions, or even removal proceedings if you do not receive updates about appointments or requests for additional information.
Frequently Asked Questions About USCIS Address Changes
Submitting the correct immigration form is essential when updating your address with USCIS. Address changes ensure that you receive important notifications and avoid delays in your immigration process.
- Form AR-11 - This is the official Change of Address form that must be filed with USCIS within 10 days of moving.
- Online vs. Mail Submission - You can submit Form AR-11 online for faster processing or mail a paper version to USCIS.
- Separate Filing Required - Changing your address using Form AR-11 does not update your address on pending immigration applications; update each case separately.
Always verify the latest USCIS requirements to ensure your address change is processed correctly without impacting your immigration status.
Which Immigration Form Is Submitted for Change of Address? Infographic
