Do I need to know my Alien Registration Number (ARN)?

It depends on your immigration history. The ARN (Alien Registration Number) is an identification number that USCIS assigns to certain foreign nationals who have had a formal interaction with the U.S. immigration system. It is used to track proceedings and records tied to your immigration history.

In the context of the O-1, whether you need to know your ARN varies case by case. If you have never had a prior record in the U.S., you may not yet have a number assigned. If you have gone through a previous process, such as a change of status or another immigration benefit, there is likely an ARN linked to your name, and having it on hand makes it easier to check your status and process new petitions.

• No prior U.S. immigration history: you may not have an ARN yet.
• Previous process on record: an ARN likely exists and can be located.
• Where to look: approval notices and official USCIS correspondence.

Keeping your information up to date helps avoid complications. If you are unsure about your number or your status, consult the official USCIS resources and, if needed, seek the guidance of an immigration professional.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.