What Is an Alien Registration Card (ARC)?

An Alien Registration Card (ARC) is a document issued by either the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). An ARC is used to identify a person who is not a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident, but who is legally allowed to stay in the United States. The card is usually used to prove a person’s status in the United States while employed or staying on a visa.

The ARC includes the individual’s name, date of birth, physical characteristics, photograph, and details about the document’s holder, such as the country of birth, sex, and immigration status. It is important to note that, while an ARC identifies an individual, it is not a form of identification. It does not provide legal proof of identity or residence in the United States.

Who Needs an Alien Registration Card?

The ARC is typically required for foreign nationals employed in the United States. Some employers may require an ARC as part of the documentation necessary to process the individual’s work application or to register for certain services. Additionally, anyone who is in the country on a temporary basis may be required to obtain an ARC, depending on their particular visa.

An ARC may also be used to secure certain types of public benefits, such as social security and Medicaid, although a Social Security Number is often used instead. It is important to note that in many public benefit programs, an ARC-holder is not eligible to receive aid.

How to Get an Alien Registration Card

The USCIS or DHS issues the ARC to those individuals who are eligible and have applied for one. The process for obtaining an ARC involves submitting a Form I-551, which can be found on the USCIS website and is the same form as a Green Card application. Depending on the individual’s circumstances and status, the form may require additional documentation. The form should be completed in its entirety, including necessary documents and a passport size photograph, and be sent to either the USCIS or DHS.

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The ARC will usually arrive in the mail two to three weeks after submitting the application. The ARC is valid for 10 years, and it must be renewed should the individual remain in the United States after the expiration date. It is important to note that a replacement ARC must be requested if the original is ever lost, stolen, or destroyed.

Related Legal Concepts

The alien registration card relates to several other immigration documents and processes. Individuals may also need to maintain an I-94 card as proof of legal entry, while those seeking permanent status often pursue a green card through separate applications. The term alien in immigration law refers to any person who is not a U.S. citizen, and various registration statement requirements may apply depending on an individual’s specific immigration status and circumstances.

The Bottom Line

Understanding the alien registration card’s purpose and limitations is essential for foreign nationals navigating U.S. immigration requirements. While an ARC serves as important documentation of legal presence, it differs significantly from other immigration documents in terms of the rights and benefits it provides. For guidance specific to your situation, always consult a qualified, licensed attorney.