Dear reader, I wanted to share an important update that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced regarding change of address requests.
On October 12th, USCIS launched a new Enterprise Change of Address (E-COA) online self-service tool. This will allow customers with pending immigration applications, petitions, or requests to easily update their address online with USCIS.
Why Is This Important for Immigrants?
Previously, if your address changed while you had a case pending with USCIS, you would have to:
- Update your address by mailing in a paper AR-11 form
- Call the USCIS Contact Center
- Visit a Field Office or Asylum Office in person
The new online E-COA tool allows you to update your mailing and physical address for pending cases all in one place online. This eliminates the need for any of those previous time-consuming steps.
E-COA will automatically process address changes for nearly all USCIS forms and case types. The full list of exceptions is on the USCIS website.
Who Can Use the New E-COA Tool?
To use E-COA, you simply need a USCIS online account. You don’t need to have filed your immigration application online. Just log into your account and enter your:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- New physical and mailing addresses
You should also include any details about your pending case if you have them easily available.
Important Note: Individuals protected under 8 USC 1367 cannot yet use E-COA. This includes applicants or petitioners for VAWA, T visa, or U visa benefits. There are special email instructions on the USCIS website for these protected groups to update their address.
Don’t Forget to Update Your Address with USPS Too
Changing your address with the U.S. Postal Service will NOT automatically update it with USCIS. After using the new E-COA tool, be sure to also file a Change of Address request with USPS.
I hope this information helps explain the new online change of address option now available directly through your USCIS account. As your immigration attorney, I’m always here to help if you have any other questions or need assistance with your case. Don’t hesitate to call my office at (832) 390-4664.
