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Moving soon? USCIS reminds immigrants in the U.S. to update their address directly through their online account—not just with USPS. Failing to do so can lead to missed mail, delays in immigration cases, or even fines. Here's everything you need to know.
When moving to a new home in the United States, notifying the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) might seem like enough, but for immigrants, it’s not.
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued a crucial reminder: updating your USPS address does not update your address with USCIS, and failing to inform USCIS could have serious consequences.
USPS Won’t Forward USCIS Mail
In a recent social media post, USCIS clarified a common misconception among immigrants. Unlike other government mail, important documents and notices from USCIS are not forwarded by USPS, even if you’ve submitted a change of address to them.
“All aliens in the U.S. must report a change of address to USCIS within 10 days of moving. This reporting requirement does not apply to A and G visa holders and visa waiver visitors. Failure to comply may result in fines or removal,” said USCIS in a Tweet.
That means you must separately update your address with USCIS to ensure you receive all immigration-related correspondence, such as biometrics appointments, Requests for Evidence (RFEs), or interview notices.
Who Must Report Address Changes to USCIS?
According to USCIS, all non-citizens living in the U.S. are legally required to notify the agency of any change of address within 10 days of moving.
Exceptions to the Rule:
• Holders of A and G visas (diplomats and certain government officials)
• Visitors under the Visa Waiver Program
Failure to comply could result in:
• Fines
• Delays in case processing
• Even removal proceedings in severe cases
How to Update Your Address with USCIS
USCIS encourages immigrants to use the Enterprise Change of Address (E-COA) tool, available through their USCIS online account. This method offers:
• Faster processing
• No paperwork
• Real-time confirmation
If you don’t yet have an online account, it’s still possible to update your address by mailing Form AR-11 (Alien’s Change of Address Card). However, USCIS recommends the digital method to avoid processing delays.
For Pending or Approved Immigration Cases: Don’t Forget This Step
If you have any pending or approved immigration applications, you must enter the receipt number(s) for each one during your online address update. This ensures your new address is linked to all active cases.
Special Instructions for Certain Immigration Programs
USCIS noted that some categories, like participants in certain immigration programs, may have additional address reporting requirements. If you’re unsure, consult the USCIS Policy Manual for case-specific guidance.
Final Takeaway: Don’t Delay Your Update
USCIS strongly advises all immigrants to update their address as soon as they move. Skipping this step may lead to missed appointments or case denials.
“Using an online account to update your address in a timely way meets the legal requirement to notify us that you have moved,” USCIS explained.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/uscis-address-change-deadline-immigration-delays-warning/
