There is a possibility of facing some consequences if a lawful permanent resident fails to submit a change of address to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
In most cases it is quite normal for U.S. green card holders to move around to different addresses in the country. Perhaps, for instance, LPRs might get a new job assignment or need more living space. Unfortunately, it is also easy to forget that you are required to update USCIS everytime you move to a new address, for as long as you are the beneficiary of a green card.
U.S. Immigration Law Stipulates That Green Card Holders Must Inform USCIS of a New Change of Address
By law all non-U.S. citizens who reside in the U.S. are obligated to provide USCIS with their new address within ten days of moving. Submitting a change of address application form with the U.S. post office is not enough. You must immediately let USCIS know of your new address.
Select few people do not have to give USCIS their address after moving, including:
- Diplomats
- Foreign government representatives to international organizations holding a G-visa and
- Particular nonimmigrants without visas who are in the U.S. for less than 30 days
How Do I Tell USCIS About My Change of Address
Most immigrants can either file their change of address online on the USCIS website or they can contact their local USCIS office. If you still do not know how to do so you can call your nearest immigration law office to assist you.
Another option is you can complete a Form AR-11 and mail it to the address listed on the USCIS website. (In most cases, this is sometimes the only alternative, when the online system gets glitchy and sends error messages). It is also a good idea to send a letter to the office that is processing your application to separately advise of your new address.
When filing the change of address form make sure to list the receipt number of every immigration application that is still pending (awaiting a U.S. government decision). For example, a U.S. citizen child who may have petitioned for his or her mother and filed an adjustment of status application, and she might wish to work while the application is pending. This application requires three forms submitted to USCIS:
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, and
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
Every immigrant will need to list each form and its receipt number on the Change of Address form, whether changing the details online, by mail or through the Form AR-11. Have an immigration lawyer help you with the change of address form.
Ramifications for Failure to Alert USCIS of Change of Address
You may ask, “It has been over a year since I moved and I have not given USCIS my new address; what will happen to me?” According to U.S. immigration law, intentionally failing to advise USCIS of your new address is a misdemeanor. Not notifying USCIS can be punishable by a fine of $200 and up to 30 days imprisonment.
Better Late Than Never to Advise USCIS of a Change of Address
Providing USCIS with an updated change of address will always be in your best interest. You will look more responsible and honest that way. Changing your address will also be beneficial to you especially if you are awaiting a decision on an application from USCIS as you might receive any update from USCIS to your correct address. Giving USCIS your new address will also help you with future applications and when you seek to apply for U.S. Citizenship through naturalization.
Consult With Your Local Immigration Attorney
If you forgot to give USCIS your new address and you feel like you are in trouble, seek legal advice before you submit your change of address application form. You will have a favorable outcome talking to an immigration law expert. Call Gambacorta Law Office today at 847 443 9303 for assistance.