Foreign nationals living in the United States are generally required to notify U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of a change of address within 10 days of moving. Failure to update the agency’s records could lead to missed immigration notices, important documents and correspondence about pending applications, according to USCIS guidance.
The requirement applies to most non-US citizens in the country, whether or not they have an immigration application pending. Holders of A and G visas, along with visitors admitted under the Visa Waiver Program, are exempt from this specific reporting requirement.
Updating a postal address is not enough
USCIS cautions that notifying the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) of a move does not automatically update immigration records. The postal service also does not guarantee that mail sent by USCIS will be forwarded to a new address.
The agency therefore encourages people to report their move directly through a USCIS online account or its online change-of-address service. A paper Form AR-11, the Alien’s Change of Address Card, is also an option for meeting the reporting requirement.
People with multiple pending cases should make sure the address change is reflected in the relevant case records. Applicants should follow the instructions for their particular application and check that the update has been recorded correctly.
Sponsors may have a separate 30-day deadline
A different rule applies to certain people who have filed an Affidavit of Support for an immigrant. US citizens, US nationals and lawful permanent residents who remain subject to the sponsorship obligation must generally submit Form I-865 within 30 days of changing their address.
Some immigration cases require additional steps. Applicants with cases being processed through the Department of State’s National Visa Center may need to notify that office as well if their USCIS approval notice says the petition has been forwarded for consular processing.
Special procedures may also apply to certain humanitarian and family-based immigration cases. People dealing with VAWA, T or U visa applications, waivers or adoption-related matters should consult the instructions specific to their case rather than assume that the standard procedure covers every situation.
USCIS urges people who move to check the rules that apply to their immigration status and pending applications, then update their information promptly. Keeping agency records current can help reduce the risk of missing critical correspondence or experiencing avoidable delays.
