Amelia Blake

If you're not a U.S. citizen, you'll likely need to notify U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) about your change of address. Some U.S. citizens may also need to update their address with USCIS if they're involved in a pending immigration case.

With a green card or another approved immigration status, you don't need USCIS's approval to move within the United States. However, you must inform USCIS of your new location so they can reach you in the future.

Who Needs to Notify USCIS?

Most foreign nationals and U.S. citizens sponsoring an immigrant must inform USCIS of any address changes. The following groups are exempt from this requirement:

• A visa holders (foreign diplomats)
• G visa holders (government representatives of international organizations)
• Visa Waiver Program members (non-immigrants staying in the U.S. for less than 30 days)

Timeframes for Notification

• Conditional and unconditional permanent residents: Within 10 days of changing residence
• Temporary visa holders (e.g., H-1B visa holders): Within 10 days of moving
• U.S. citizens sponsoring immigration applications: Within 30 days of moving

How to Submit a Change of Address

For Non-U.S. Citizens:

Online Method: Submit USCIS's online Change of Address Form. It takes about five minutes to complete, and you can request immediate email confirmation.

Paper Method: File Form AR-11 (Alien's Change of Address Card) by mail. Complete the form in black ink, sign it, and mail it to the address provided in the form instructions.

For U.S. Citizens Sponsoring Pending Applications:

Online Method: Use USCIS's online Change of Address Form.

Phone Method: Call 1-800-375-5283 to inform USCIS about an address change.

Mail Method: Submit Form I-865 (Sponsor's Notice of Change of Address) to USCIS by mail.

Special Considerations

• Update addresses for each non-citizen dependent or relative separately.
• For pending or recently approved applications (e.g., Form I-130 or Form I-485), update the address on those forms as well.
• If your case has moved to the National Visa Center (NVC), use their Public Inquiry Form to update your address.
• Victims of domestic violence, human trafficking, or violent crime should mail Form AR-11 to a specific USCIS address.
• U.S. citizen sponsors living abroad temporarily should provide a U.S. address for USCIS communications.

Important Notes

• A U.S. Postal Service (USPS) change of address is not the same as a USCIS change of address.
• Failing to update your address can result in fines, jail time, or even deportation for some immigration statuses.
• Even if late, it's better to submit an address change than not at all.

Disclaimer: This information is for academic and marketing purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult a qualified immigration attorney for specific legal counsel. OpenSphere is a technology company, not a law firm, and is not affiliated with or endorsed by USCIS or any government entity.