Overview (What is AR-11 used for?)
#AR-11, also known as the Alien’s Change of Address Card, is a form used to inform USCIS of your new address. It is important to keep your address updated to ensure you receive all correspondence related to your immigration status. The form collects personal information, including your previous and new addresses, and requires your signature to validate the submission.
When completing the AR-11, you must provide accurate details about your identity and address. This includes your given name, middle name (if applicable), and the complete address of your new residence. The form must be submitted to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Remember, if you are in immigration proceedings, you must also notify the Immigration Court of any address changes separately. Filing Form AR-11 does not update your address with the Immigration Court.
For more information, you can download the form directly from the USCIS website [here](https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/forms/ar-11.pdf).
What USCIS is really evaluating (AR-11)
#USCIS evaluates the accuracy of your personal information, including your name and address. A common mismatch occurs when the previous address is not provided or is incomplete. Make sure all details are consistent to avoid delays in processing your address change.
Context & workflow (How does AR-11 fit into the case?)
#Use the official form page to confirm the edition date, required evidence, and filing method. Verify [fees](/en/united-states/visas/fees) before filing. Check [processing times](/en/united-states/visas/processing-times) for your category. Review [requirements](/en/united-states/visas/requirements) that apply to your status.
Who uses it
Applicants or petitioners who are required to submit this form for their case.
When it is used
- When the official checklist or instructions list this form.
- When submitting an initial application or petition.
- When providing updated information requested by the agency.
Evidence strategy (What evidence does USCIS expect for AR-11?)
#- Use supporting documents to verify your identity and address
- Include any previous correspondence from USCIS that shows your old address
- Prepare proof of your new address, such as utility bills or lease agreements
Failure prevention (Why petitions are rejected or delayed)
#Technical rejections
- Ensure your signature is present on the form
- Use the correct edition of the form (Edition 11/02/22)
- Double-check that all mandatory fields are filled out completely
Substantive weaknesses
- Check for inconsistencies between your previous and new addresses
- Make sure to include your middle name if it is applicable
- Verify that the date of signature is in the correct format (mm/dd/yyyy)
RFE triggers and how to pre-empt (What causes RFEs for AR-11?)
#- Incorrect date format for the signature
- Failure to provide a previous address
- Omitting the ZIP Code in the address section
Eligibility signals
#- Complete name including first and middle names
- Accurate new address with ZIP Code
- Previous address details
- Signature and date of signature
Form sections (Which sections matter most on AR-11?)
#ZIP Code
Provide the ZIP Code for your new address. Make sure it matches the city or town you list.
Information About You
Fill in your full name as it appears on your immigration documents.
Information About Your Address
Enter your new address details, ensuring accuracy to avoid delays.
Your Signature
Sign the form where required to validate your submission.
Previous Physical Address
List your previous address to help USCIS track your records.
DHS Privacy Notice
Review the privacy notice to understand how your information will be used.
What it asks for (What fields and questions appear on AR-11?)
#- *Given Name (First Name)
- Middle Name (if applicable)
- Number
- Street Number and Name
- ZIP Code
- City or Town
- Previous Physical Address
- Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)
- USCIS Form AR-11
- Form AR-11, Alien's Change of Address
- 09/10/2019
What you need before you start (What should you gather before AR-11?)
#- Provide Your current address details including ZIP Code and city or town
- Provide Your previous address details
- Provide Your full name including middle name if applicable
- Provide Your signature
- Provide Date of signature in mm/dd/yyyy format
- Provide A complete copy of the current form edition
- Valid identification documents that match the form biographic data
- Provide Supporting evidence for the eligibility category you select
- Provide Payment method or fee waiver evidence if applicable
- Provide Translations for any non-English documents
- Provide Copies of prior USCIS notices or receipts tied to the case
- Provide A clear mailing address and contact information that match your records
Evidence checklist (Which documents should you prepare for AR-11?)
#- Evidence of identity (passport, government ID, or USCIS-issued document).
- Evidence of current immigration status or admission/parole.
- Evidence that supports the eligibility category selected.
- Evidence of any required family relationship or sponsorship.
Checklist (What are the key steps before filing AR-11?)
#- Complete all mandatory fields marked with an asterisk (*)
- Review the declarations and sign where required
- Provide your previous physical address
- Include your new address details accurately
- Submit the form to the correct USCIS address: U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services, Attn: Change of Address, 1344 Pleasants Drive, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
- Download the current AR-11 from the official form page.
- Save the PDF locally and open it in a compatible PDF viewer (PDFs often work best in Adobe Reader).
- Follow the form’s signature instructions (some PDFs require printing and hand-signing).
- Complete every required section and review for consistency.
- Follow the signature and submission instructions exactly.
- Keep copies of everything you submit.
Common mistakes (What errors delay AR-11 petitions?)
#- Missing signature on the form
- Incorrect format for the date of signature
- Omitting mandatory fields marked with an asterisk (*)
- Providing an incomplete previous address
- Failing to notify the Immigration Court if in proceedings
Examples (What does a strong AR-11 submission look like?)
#- Situation: An applicant is preparing AR-11 and must include all required evidence. Task: They submit a complete packet within a 30-day preparation window. Action: They compile identity records, eligibility evidence, and the filing fee before submitting. Result: The petition is accepted without a request for missing items.
- Situation: A filer is close to a deadline for AR-11. Task: They submit within the required 90-day timeline. Action: They finalize the packet and file within the stated window. Result: The case proceeds without a late-filing issue.
- Situation: A petitioner must reference a receipt number. Task: They match the receipt number to the underlying petition. Action: They include the exact receipt number on AR-11 and attach the notice copy. Result: USCIS can verify the underlying filing quickly.
Common misconceptions (What do people often misunderstand about AR-11?)
#- Filing Form AR-11 updates your address with the Immigration Court, which it does not.
- You do not need to sign the form if you are submitting it online, which is incorrect; a signature is required.
- You can skip the previous address section if you have lived at your new address for a long time, which is not allowed.
- Submitting Form AR-11 is the only step needed if you are in immigration proceedings, which is false; you must notify the Immigration Court separately.
How this guide is built (Where this AR-11 guidance comes from)
#This guide is based on the latest official instructions and the current edition of Form AR-11. It aims to provide clear, non-legal advice to help you navigate the process smoothly.
FAQs
What should I do if I move again after submitting Form AR-11?
You will need to submit a new Form AR-11 to update your address again. Remember to notify the Immigration Court separately if you are in proceedings.
How long does it take for USCIS to process my address change?
Processing times can vary, but you should receive confirmation of your address change within a few weeks. Keep an eye on your mail for any correspondence from USCIS.
Is there a fee to file Form AR-11?
No, there is no fee to file Form AR-11. It is a free service provided by USCIS to keep your address updated.
Can I submit Form AR-11 online?
Currently, Form AR-11 must be submitted by mail. Make sure to send it to the correct address provided in the instructions.
What information do I need to provide on Form AR-11?
You need to provide your given name, middle name if applicable, your previous physical address, and your new address. Make sure to fill out all mandatory fields marked with an asterisk.
What happens if I forget to sign the form?
If you forget to sign the form, it may be rejected or delayed. Always check that your signature is present before submitting.
Do I need to provide my ZIP code on the form?
Yes, you must include your ZIP code in the address section. This is a mandatory field that must be completed.
What should I do if I made a mistake on the form after submitting?
If you realize there was a mistake after submission, you should submit a new Form AR-11 with the correct information. Make sure to follow the same process as before.
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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