The USCIS Number, or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Number, is a unique identifier assigned to individuals who have certain types of interactions with USCIS. It’s an important part of the I-9 form for some individuals, especially those who are not U.S. citizens but are authorized to work in the United States. Here’s what you need to know about the USCIS Number in the context of the I-9 form:
Definition and Location
- USCIS Number: This number is also known as the Alien Registration Number or A-Number. It consists of an “A” followed by an eight- or nine-digit number. For instance, A123456789.
- Where to Find It: The USCIS Number can be found on permanent resident cards (green cards), employment authorization documents (EAD), and other immigration documents issued by USCIS.
Role in the I-9 Form
- Section 1 of the I-9 Form: Employees who are not U.S. citizens but are authorized to work in the United States will be asked to provide their USCIS Number in Section 1 of the I-9 form. This includes lawful permanent residents and conditional residents.
- Document Verification: For lawful permanent residents, the USCIS Number is typically found on their Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551). For other authorized workers, it might appear on their Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766).
Usage
- Verification of Work Authorization: The USCIS Number helps employers verify the employee’s immigration status and work authorization through the USCIS system.
- Reverification: This number is also used for reverification purposes on the I-9 form when an employee’s work authorization or documentation of employment authorization has expired.
It’s important for employees filling out the I-9 form to correctly provide their USCIS Number if they are asked for it, as this number is crucial for establishing their eligibility to work in the United States. Employers must ensure they handle this sensitive information with the appropriate level of confidentiality and security.