Moving to a new home is exciting, but for foreign nationals (officially called “aliens”) in the U.S., it comes with a legal requirement. You must notify U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of your new address within 10 days of moving.
Failing to update your address can lead to serious issues, including missed notices, delayed applications, or complications with your immigration status.
This guide explains everything you need to know about updating your address with USCIS, including who must report, how to submit updates, processing timelines, tips for compliance, and how Raju Law can assist you.
Note: Information is current as of early 2026. Always check official USCIS sources for updates.
Who Must Report a Change of Address?
Under U.S. law (Section 265 of the Immigration and Nationality Act), all aliens in the United States must report address changes. This includes:
Nonimmigrant visa holders: F-1 students, H-1B workers, J-1 exchange visitors, B-1/B-2 visitors who extended stay, etc.
Pending green card applicants: I-485 adjustment of status, family-based petitions
Asylum seekers and refugees (including temporary protected status)
Temporary workers and dependents: H-4, L-2, etc.
Lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
Exceptions:
A or G visa holders (diplomats and official representatives)
Visa Waiver Program (VWP/ESTA) visitors
Special situations:
Sponsors filing Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) must file Form I-865 within 30 days
Certain confidential petitions (VAWA, T or U visas, some I-751 waivers) follow special instructions
If in removal proceedings, notify the Immigration Court (EOIR) separately
Why Updating Your Address Matters?
USCIS sends critical communications to the address on file, such as:
Interview notices
Biometrics appointments
Requests for Evidence (RFEs)
Work permit or green card approvals
If your mail goes to an old address:
You may miss deadlines or appointments
Application processing may be delayed
USCIS could assume abandonment or non-compliance
Updating with USPS alone is not enough; USCIS requires its own notification.
How to Update Your Address?
There are two ways to update your address. If you or your attorney has USCIS account and the pending application or petition is linked with the account then online address change can be done:
1. Online
Log in to USCIS account at my.uscis.gov
Enter:
>Full name and date of birth
>Alien Registration Number (A-number) if applicable
>Receipt numbers for pending cases (highly recommended)
> Old and new addresses
Submit and save the confirmation
Then update the address to USPS through their website.
Benefits:
Immediate processing in USCIS systems
Updates most pending cases automatically
No paper forms or mailing delays
If no USCIS account is linked with the application, then,
2. By Mail (Form AR-11)
Download and complete Form AR-11: Alien’s Change of Address Card | USCIS
Fill out all fields accurately
Mail to the address on the form instructions (verify current USCIS mailing address)
Keep a copy and proof of mailing
Then update the address to USPS through their website.
Note: Mail updates meet the legal requirement but do not automatically update pending cases, which may delay notifications.
3. Through an Attorney or Accredited Representative
Attorneys can submit address updates online or by mail on your behalf.
For expert guidance, you can work with Raju Law. Our team helps alien applicants and their families comply with USCIS rules efficiently, avoiding missed deadlines, delays, or errors.
Raju Law also provides assistance for special categories, including sponsors, asylum seekers, and individuals with multiple pending cases, ensuring updates are correctly linked to each application.
Working with an experienced firm like Raju Law ensures your USCIS address change is handled accurately and on time, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.
Tips for Success
Update even if moving within the same city or apartment complex
Include all receipt numbers for pending applications
Double-check spelling, formatting, and address accuracy
No fee is required
Save confirmations and screenshots for your records
Follow program-specific instructions if you are a sponsor or in a special category
Processing Times
Method - Processing Time
Online: Almost immediate; confirmation available in account
Mail (Form AR-11): 2–4 weeks; may take longer to reflect in system
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need to update if moving within the same city?
Yes, USCIS requires the current mailing address regardless of location within the city.
What if I have multiple pending applications?
Include all receipt numbers online or file separate AR-11s by mail.
How long does it take for USCIS to update the address?
Online: almost immediate.
Mail: typically 2–4 weeks.
What if I miss the 10-day window?
Update as soon as possible to minimize risks of missed notices or delays.
Is there a fee to update my address?
No. USCIS does not charge a fee for address updates.
References
USCIS Change of Address: How to Change Your Address | USCIS
Form AR-11: Alien’s Change of Address Card | USCIS
USCIS Policy Manual: Chapter 10 - Changes of Address | USCIS
