Legal definition of Alien number :
The Alien number is a crucial identifier assigned by the Department of Homeland Security to every non-citizen upon the creation of their immigration file. This series of numbers is used to track the individual’s journey through the immigration process, to identify their official documents, and to ensure efficient management of migratory flows, making it an essential element in all countries.
The Alien number may be referred to by different terms depending on the country. In the United States, it is commonly known as the “Number A” or “USCIS Number”. This number, typically consisting of 8 or 9 digits and usually preceded by the letter “A”, is generally printed in the upper right corner of documents issued by USCIS, such as the green card or work authorization card. It can also be accessed online through USCIS portals. If the number is not found in these places, it may be absent.
The USCIS does not assign an A number to everyone. This identifier is only reserved for non-citizens residing in the United States who are undergoing processing for permanent immigration or who are authorized to work temporarily in the country. This indicates that citizens born in the United States and many non-immigrant visitors will not be able to obtain it.
In some European countries, the equivalent of the alien number is the “Numéro d’identification étranger (NIE. Comprising 10 characters, it is used to track and identify foreigners during their stay on French territory. This number is generally assigned to upon the issuance of visas or any residence permit. It is located just below the visa number on the vignette issued by the OFII. On new residence permits, it is placed on the right peripheral part in a horizontal position.
Etymology of Alien Number
The term Alien number originates from the Latin word “alienus,” meaning “foreign” or “stranger,” and “numerum,” which translates to “number.” In law, the term “alien” refers to a person who is not a citizen of a particular country, and “number” denotes an identification code or digit. Therefore, the combination “Alien number” indicates the identifier for all foreign individuals in a country. It symbolizes their status as non-citizens or non-nationals.