What is a USCIS receipt number?

Your Key to Tracking Immigration Applications

Navigating the U.S. immigration system can be complex and overwhelming, especially when it comes to tracking your application. One of the most crucial pieces of information you’ll encounter during your immigration process is the USCIS receipt number. This unique alphanumeric code is your gateway to monitoring the status of your case, receiving updates, and ensuring your application is moving forward.

What Is a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Receipt Number?

It’s a unique identifier assigned to each application or petition submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). When you file an immigration form—whether it’s a green card application, work visa petition, or family sponsorship—USCIS will send you a receipt notice confirming they’ve received your case, which is essential for tracking your case status online or through other communication channels.

Typically it consists of 13 characters: a combination of three letters followed by ten numbers. For example: EAC1234567890 or WAC9876543210. The first three letters indicate the service center processing your application, while the remaining numbers are unique to your case.

Why Is this important?

• Tracking Your Case: You can use the receipt number to check the status of your application online through the USCIS Case Status Online tool. This helps you stay updated on processing times, requests for additional evidence (RFE), or approval notices.
• Receiving Updates: When USCIS updates your case status, it’s often linked to your receipt number. This means you can receive notifications about interview appointments, approvals, or requests directly related to your case.
• Correspondence Reference: If you need to contact USCIS or your immigration attorney, providing your receipt number ensures they can quickly locate your case information.
• Managing Multiple Applications: If you have several pending applications, each will have its own USCIS receipt, helping you distinguish between different cases.

In essence, the USCIS receipt number is your primary reference point in the entire immigration process. Without it, tracking and managing your case becomes significantly more difficult.

How to Find Your Receipt Number

After submitting your application or petition, USCIS will send you a receipt notice, also known as Form I-797C, Notice of Action. This document contains your USCIS receipt number prominently displayed at the top. Here’s how to locate it:

1. Check your mailing: Your USCIS receipt notice will arrive in the mail within a few weeks after your application is received.
2. Examine the notice: The receipt number is usually in the top right corner, labeled as “Receipt Number” or “Case Number.” It is a 13-character alphanumeric code.
3. Use online tools: If you’ve lost the physical notice, some online account portals linked to your USCIS account may display your receipt number.
4. Email notifications: In some cases, USCIS may send updates via email that include your receipt number.

Remember, always keep a record of your receipt number in a safe place, as it’s your key to unlocking case updates and correspondence.

Using Your Receipt Number Effectively

Here are some best practices for using it:

• Check Case Status Regularly: Visit the USCIS Case Status Online website and enter your receipt number to monitor your case. This helps you prepare for any upcoming interviews or additional requests.
• Respond Promptly to Requests: If USCIS issues an RFE or appointment notice, the case status update will reference your receipt number. Responding quickly can prevent delays.
• Keep Records Organized: Maintain a dedicated folder—digital or physical—that contains all USCIS notices, especially those with your receipt number. This simplifies tracking and future reference.
• Communicate with USCIS or Your Attorney: When contacting USCIS or your legal representative, provide your USCIS receipt to ensure they retrieve the correct case information swiftly.
• Be Aware of Processing Times: Different types of applications have varying processing times depending on the service center. Knowing your receipt number’s processing center (indicated by the first three letters) can help estimate wait times.