Where exactly on the card?
On post-2010 green cards, the 13-character USCIS# is printed on the front of the card in the lower-right area, just above the issue date. On older cards (pre-2010), it appeared on the back. If you have a card issued before 2010, USCIS still recognizes the older format.
What the format means
Every green card number follows the pattern XXX1234567890 - three letters then ten digits. The letters identify the service center that issued the card:
- SRC - Texas Service Center
- EAC - Vermont (Eastern) Service Center
- WAC - California (Western) Service Center
- LIN - Nebraska Service Center
- MSC - National Benefits Center
- IOE - ELIS (electronic immigration system)
Green card number vs alien number vs receipt number
Three different IDs people confuse constantly:
- Green card number (USCIS# / Card#) - identifies the physical card. Changes when you renew.
- Alien number (A#) - your permanent ID. Never changes. 8-9 digits prefixed with A.
- Receipt number - application tracking ID. 13 characters like a green card number, but for a specific petition (I-485, I-130, etc.).
When you need your green card number
- Form I-9 employment verification - your employer copies it.
- International travel - airlines sometimes record it.
- Filing N-400 for naturalization - required on the form.
- Renewing or replacing your card (Form I-90).
- Sponsoring a relative on Form I-130 (provides proof of LPR status).
What if your card is expired?
The number itself remains a valid USCIS identifier for record purposes. But the card is no longer evidence of work authorization or travel readmission if it has expired. File Form I-90 to renew. Status as a permanent resident is independent of the card - losing the card does not lose status.
Conditional vs permanent green card numbers
Conditional residents (2-year green cards from marriage or EB-5) get a card number in the same format. When you file I-751 (marriage) or I-829 (EB-5) and receive your 10-year card, the new card has a new number. Your A-number does not change.