USCIS Address Change Guide
Every non-U.S. citizen must report address changes within 10 days of moving. Learn how to file online using the USCIS E-COA tool to avoid rejections.
Quick References
The 10-Day Address Change Requirement
Under Section 265 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), almost all non-U.S. citizens residing in the United States must notify the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of any change of address within 10 days of moving.
This requirement applies to temporary visa holders (H-1B, L-1, F-1 students, O-1, TN) as well as Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders). Only diplomats (A and G visa holders) and certain short-term visitors under the Visa Waiver Program are exempt.
Warning: Notifying the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) of a mail forwarding address does not update your address with USCIS. You must update your records directly with the immigration agency.
How to File: Online (E-COA) vs. Paper (AR-11)
USCIS provides two methods for filing address change notices. The online portal is strongly recommended:
The most efficient method is to log in to your USCIS Online Account and use the Enterprise Change of Address (E-COA) tool. This instantly fulfills your legal AR-11 requirement and automatically updates the address on all your active, pending petitions in a single step.
If you cannot access the online system, you must print, fill out, and sign a paper Form AR-11 (Alien's Change of Address Card) and mail it to the USCIS headquarters in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
If you forgot to file and are past the 10-day limit, submit the change online immediately. USCIS rarely enforces criminal penalties for late filings as long as you rectify the record voluntarily before an audit or inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does filing a change of address with USPS update my records with USCIS?
No. USPS mail forwarding is completely separate from USCIS. You must update your address directly through the USCIS E-COA portal within 10 days of moving.
Does my home WFH address change affect my H-1B visa status?
Yes, moving your home office may require an H-1B amendment if it crosses MSA boundaries. Check our [H-1B Remote Work Relocation Guide](/usa/guides/immigration/h1b-remote-work-relocation) to see if you need to file an amendment.
Filing Window
Failing to notify USCIS of an address change is technically a federal misdemeanor. Keep your records updated to avoid missed notices or future application rejections.