Understanding USCIS Form AR-11: A Comprehensive Guide
USCIS Form AR-11, also known as the Alien’s Change of Address Card, is a crucial document for individuals who are required to notify the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of any change in their address. This form is essential for maintaining legal status and ensuring that important correspondence from USCIS reaches the correct address. In this detailed guide, we will explore the various aspects of USCIS Form AR-11, including its purpose, eligibility, requirements, and the process of filing it.
Purpose of USCIS Form AR-11
The primary purpose of USCIS Form AR-11 is to inform USCIS of any change in your address. This is particularly important for individuals who have a pending application, adjustment of status, or any other immigration benefit. By updating your address, you ensure that USCIS can send you important notifications, such as the approval or denial of your application, without any delay.
Eligibility for USCIS Form AR-11
USCIS Form AR-11 is required for individuals who are in the United States and have a pending application, adjustment of status, or any other immigration benefit. This includes individuals who have been granted parole, asylum, or temporary protected status. Additionally, individuals who have a pending application for naturalization or any other immigration benefit must also file this form.
Requirements for USCIS Form AR-11
Before filing USCIS Form AR-11, there are certain requirements that you need to meet. These include:
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Completing the form accurately and truthfully.
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Providing your full name, Alien Registration Number (A-number), and date of birth.
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Listing your new address, including the street number, street name, apartment number, city, state, and ZIP code.
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Indicating the reason for the change of address, such as a move to a new residence or a change in employment.
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Sign and date the form.
How to File USCIS Form AR-11
USCIS Form AR-11 can be filed online or by mail. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to file it:
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Visit the USCIS website and download the form AR-11.
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Complete the form accurately and truthfully, ensuring that all required information is provided.
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Sign and date the form.
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For online filing, log in to your USCIS account and upload the completed form. For mail filing, print the form, sign it, and mail it to the appropriate USCIS lockbox.
USCIS Form AR-11 Fees
As of the knowledge cutoff date, there is no fee for filing USCIS Form AR-11. However, it is important to note that USCIS reserves the right to charge a fee for this form in the future.
USCIS Form AR-11 Processing Time
The processing time for USCIS Form AR-11 can vary depending on the volume of applications and the specific USCIS office handling your case. Generally, it takes a few weeks to process the form. However, it is important to note that USCIS does not provide an estimated processing time for this form.
USCIS Form AR-11 and Employment Authorization
USCIS Form AR-11 is not required for individuals who have employment authorization. However, it is still important to update your address with the Social Security Administration (SSA) if you have a Social Security number. This ensures that you receive any correspondence related to your employment authorization.
USCIS Form AR-11 and Travel Documents
USCIS Form AR-11 is not required for individuals who have travel documents, such as a passport or a visa. However, it is still important to update your address with the relevant government agency that issued your travel document.
USCIS Form AR-11 and Naturalization
USCIS Form AR-11 is required for individuals who have a pending naturalization application. By updating your address, you ensure that USCIS can send you important notifications, such as the scheduling of your naturalization interview or the results of your naturalization test.