TL;DR: Filing an AR-11 change of address correctly and on time is critical for immigrants on bond, as even small mistakes can jeopardize immigration status and the return of a bond refund. This guide explains what Form AR-11 is, who must file it, and why timely compliance is essential when moving while immigration proceedings are ongoing.
Readers will discover:
- What Form AR-11 is and why USCIS requires non-citizens to file it after moving
- Who must submit an AR-11 change of address and the strict 10-day filing deadline
- How to file AR-11 online through a USCIS account or the official change-of-address tool
- Serious consequences of filing AR-11 late, including fines, delays, deportation, or loss of bond refund
- How professional immigration assistance can help ensure filings are accurate and completed on time
When you are an immigrant on bond, following every step of the legal process to the letter is essential. A failure to do so can risk your immigration status, your rights, and yes, the eligible refund of your bond.
In this guide, we’ve assembled some of the key things to remember when changing your address and updating the USCIS with Form AR-11 – the change of address form for aliens.
What is AR-11?
As provided by U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services, AR-11 is the change of address for aliens. It is an official legal document used by the U.S. government to track non-citizen moves.
Who must file Form AR-11?
Any non-citizens residing in the United States must file form AR-11 when moving their primary residence, per U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services.
When must a non-citizen file Form AR-11 after moving?
Form AR-11 must be filed within 10 days of moving to your new residence. This USCIS change of address AR-11 10 days requirement is steadfast and applies to all non-residents without exception.
Can you file USCIS AR 11 online?
Yes, you can file form USCIS AR 11 online using the AR-11 online from the USCIS website. To do this, you can either:
- Log into your existing USCIS online account and update your account with your new address, or
- Use the USCIS change of address tool
In either case, via tool or the AR-11 online from the USCIS website, your updated address will be affixed to any pending case records associated with your identity.
What happens if filing AR 11 late?
There are countless reasons to avoid filing your AR 11 late. Legal scholars will note an AR 11 change of address filed late can potentially lead to:
- Misdemeanor penalties
- Fines
- Imprisonment
- Delays or denials to your immigration applications
- Deportation
- And more
An AR 11 change of address filed late also may mean that your bond is not returned to you upon completion of the legal process. Even worse, failing to update your address via AR-11 may mean that if your bond is returned, it gets returned to the wrong address!
As we mentioned above, it’s critical to not file your AR-11 late when moving your residence. And Liberty Immigration is here to help.
Get the Filing Assistance You Need
When it comes time to file your AR-11, your immigration appeal, your parole documentation, or otherwise, it pays to have an expert in your corner—someone who understands the laws, the procedures, and the right methodology for success.
With Liberty Immigration as your guide, you can navigate the complex immigration and paperwork process with ease. Our immigration experts are here, with 36 locations spread across the country, to ensure you proceed through the immigration process without missing a step.
File correctly—contact Liberty Immigration for guidance.