Change Your Address with USCIS as a Non-U.S. Citizen
If you’re a non-U.S. citizen living in the United States or its territories, you are required to report a change of address to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within 10 days of moving.
This ensures that you continue to receive important correspondence and benefits without delay. Keep in mind that updating your address with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) does not update your address with USCIS, so you must notify both agencies separately.
How to Change Your Address with USCIS
1. Online (Recommended)
The fastest and most efficient way to update your address is through the USCIS online account. Using the online system:
- Meets the legal requirement to notify USCIS of your move.
- Updates your address almost immediately in USCIS systems.
- Ensures you receive important mail and correspondence without delays.
- Allows you to update your address for all pending or approved cases by entering your receipt numbers
If you don’t already have a USCIS online account, you can create one by visiting the USCIS website. Once logged in, use the Enterprise Change of Address (E-COA) tool under the "My Account" dropdown menu to submit your address change.
2. By Mail
You can also file a paper Form AR-11 (Alien’s Change of Address Card) by mail. While this method meets the legal requirement, it does not automatically update your address in USCIS systems, which may delay correspondence. If you choose this option:
- Download and complete Form AR-11 from the USCIS website.
- Mail the form to the address listed on the form instructions.
- Use a mailing service with tracking (e.g., certified mail) to ensure delivery.
Special Considerations for Certain Populations
Some individuals may need to follow specific procedures when updating their address:
- Adoption Cases: If you have a pending or approved adoption-related application (e.g., Form I-600 or I-800), a change of address is considered a significant change. Visit the USCIS website for guidance on updating your address for adoption-related forms.
- VAWA, T, or U Visa Applicants: Victims of domestic violence, trafficking, or other crimes should follow special privacy-protecting procedures when updating their address. Visit the Change of Address Procedures for VAWA/T/U Cases page for more information.
- Sponsors: If you submitted an affidavit of support (Form I-864) for someone, you must file Form I-865 within 30 days of moving.
Consequences of Failing to Update Your Address
Failing to notify USCIS of your address change within 10 days can result in serious consequences, including:
- Fines and Penalties: You may be fined up to $200 or face up to 30 days in jail.
- Deportation: Failure to comply with the address change requirement can be grounds for removal from the United States unless you can prove the failure was not willful or was reasonably excusable.
Tips for a Smooth Address Change Process
- Include Receipt Numbers: When updating your address for pending or approved cases, always include the receipt numbers for each case to ensure USCIS updates your records correctly
- Double-Check Your Address: Use the USPS ZIP Code Lookup tool to ensure your address is formatted correctly before submitting it to USCIS
- Keep Proof of Submission: Whether you file online or by mail, save confirmation emails or tracking receipts as proof of compliance.
By promptly updating your address with USCIS, you can avoid delays in receiving important documents and ensure compliance with immigration laws.