The document number on a Permanent Resident Card, commonly known as a Green Card (Form I-551), is a unique identifier consisting of 3 letters followed by 10 or 11 numbers.
Understanding the Document Number on Your Green Card
The Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) serves as official proof of an individual's lawful permanent resident status in the United States. While the card contains several pieces of information, the document number is a specific series of characters crucial for various immigration and identification purposes.
Format of the Document Number
As noted, the document number adheres to a specific alphanumeric pattern:
- It begins with three letters.
- These letters are immediately followed by either 10 or 11 numerical digits.
Example format: EAC1234567890 or LIN98765432109.
Locating the Document Number
The exact placement of the document number can vary slightly depending on the version and issuance date of your Permanent Resident Card. However, it is typically found on the front side of the card. It's important not to confuse the document number with other numbers that may appear on the card, such as the Alien Registration Number (A-number), which usually starts with an 'A' followed by 7 to 9 digits. The document number is distinct and serves a different purpose in tracking the card itself.
For more general information on Permanent Resident Cards, you can visit the official USCIS Green Card page.
Importance of Your Green Card Document Number
This specific document number plays a vital role in several processes and for various reasons:
- Identity Verification: It helps confirm the authenticity of the card and the identity of the lawful permanent resident.
- Employment Authorization: When completing employment eligibility verification (Form I-9), this number might be required to prove eligibility to work in the U.S.
- Travel and Re-entry: While re-entering the U.S., immigration officials may refer to this number.
- Immigration Applications: It is often requested on various forms and applications related to immigration benefits or status adjustments, linking current records to your specific card.
- Access to Services: Some government agencies or financial institutions may request this number for verification purposes when providing services to permanent residents.
Understanding the components of your Permanent Resident Card, especially unique identifiers like the document number, is essential for all lawful permanent residents.
