Where is US Visa Number Located? A Comprehensive Guide
Obtaining a US visa is a crucial step in your journey to visit or settle in the United States. With over 15 million foreign nationals holding valid US visas, navigating the visa process can be daunting, especially for first-timers. In this article, we’ll delve into the mystery surrounding US Visa Numbers and where exactly they’re located.
Understanding US Visa Numbers
A US visa number is assigned to a foreign national who wishes to enter the United States for various reasons such as:
- Family-based immigration
- Work visas (e.g., H1B, L1, O-1)
- Student visas
- Visiting relatives or friends
What is the Purpose of US Visa Numbers?
In brief, a US visa number:
• Authorizes your stay in the US, indicating your eligibility for a specific duration
• Restricts the duration of your stay, with specific guidelines
• Prevents the loss of status or non-eligibility for benefits during the authorized stay
Now that we’ve discussed the importance of US visa numbers, let’s explore the frequently asked question:
Where is My US Visa Number Located?
If you’re wondering where your US visa number is located, the answer may surprise you:
- ** On Your Immigration and Nationality Act (INA): As per 8 CFR § 211.3, the US Immigration Service allocates numbers according to specific categories under INA. Numbers are allotted when an I-765 petition is approved and the worker (or dependents) qualify.
- US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Database: This electronic database (USCIS Data Center) houses information related to individual case files, including visa numbers, I-9 verification forms, and more.
Where Are the US Visa Numbers Recorded?
Here are the details about where the US visa numbers are recorded:
Visa Type | Recording Details | Associated Case File Number | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|
H-1B, H-4 | INA Category, allocated electronically | I-94/I-130/I-765 | – | |
F-1 | SEVIS database record number | N/A | – | |
F-2 | Derivative information based on primary F-1 student | N/A |