Understanding Your Permanent Resident Card Number: 11 Digits of Vital Information

Introduction

Your Permanent Resident Card (PRC), commonly known as a Green Card, is an essential document that verifies your lawful permanent resident status in the United States. This card contains a unique 11-digit number that serves as a critical identifier throughout your immigration journey. Understanding the significance of each digit is crucial for navigating immigration processes and accessing essential services.

Deconstructing the 11-Digit Number

The 11-digit PRC number follows a standardized format, with each digit representing specific information:

Country Code

The first two digits of the PRC number indicate the country of origin for the principal applicant. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) assigns Country Codes based on the following geopolitical regions:

Serial Number

The next three digits constitute the Serial Number. This unique identifier is assigned sequentially as PRCs are issued.

Issuance Year

The sixth digit represents the year the PRC was issued. This indicates the fiscal year (October 1 to September 30) during which the card was produced.

Alien Registration

The seventh digit signifies the Alien Registration Number (ARN). This number is unique to each individual and remains the same throughout their life, regardless of any changes to their immigration status.

Card Sequence

The eighth and ninth digits represent the Card Sequence. This number indicates the order in which the card was issued within a specific batch.

Check Digit

The final two digits, known as the Check Digit, are used to verify the accuracy of the PRC number. According to the USCIS, "The check digit algorithm calculates a value that provides a high level of confidence that the remaining 9 digits of the SSN are accurate."

Significance of the PRC Number

The 11-digit PRC number plays a pivotal role in various immigration processes and daily life:

• Identity Verification: The PRC number serves as an essential identifier to verify an individual's lawful status in the United States.
• Access to Benefits: PRCs provide access to government benefits such as healthcare, social security, and driver's licenses.
• Travel Documents: The PRC number is required on applications for naturalization, passport renewals, and certain types of travel visas.
• Employment Verification: Employers use the PRC number to verify an individual's work authorization.
• Record-Keeping and Background Checks: Government agencies and law enforcement entities utilize the PRC number for record-keeping and background checks.

Maintaining the Integrity of Your PRC

Your PRC is a valuable document that requires proper care and protection:

• Treat as a Legal Document: Handle your PRC with the same care as you would a passport or driver's license.
• Keep it Secure: Store your PRC in a safe and secure location. Avoid carrying it unnecessarily.
• Report Changes Immediately: If your PRC is lost, stolen, or damaged, notify USCIS promptly to request a replacement.
• Avoid Sharing: Do not share your PRC number with unauthorized individuals or entities.

Benefits of Understanding Your PRC Number

Comprehending the significance of your 11-digit PRC number empowers you to:

• Protect Your Identity: By understanding the components of your PRC number, you can better safeguard against identity theft or fraud.
• Navigate Immigration Processes: A clear understanding of your PRC number simplifies the completion of immigration forms and applications.
• Access Essential Services: Your PRC number is required for eligibility verification of government benefits and services.
• Simplify Recordkeeping: The PRC number provides a consistent and centralized reference point for your immigration records.

Conclusion

Your Permanent Resident Card number is a critical component of your immigration status in the United States. By fully understanding the significance of each digit, you can effectively manage your immigration journey, protect your identity, and access the benefits and opportunities available to lawful permanent residents.

Additional Resources:

• USCIS Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) Information
• USCIS Alien Registration Number
• SSNVS Number Lookup