USCIS Introduces User-Friendly Tool for Updating Your Address
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The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has rolled out a groundbreaking Enterprise Change of Address (E-COA) self-service tool. The purpose of this tool is to simplify updating addresses for customers with pending applications, petitions, or requests. The introduction of such a tool enhances efficacy by making it simpler for USCIS customers to smoothly handle changing their address with the USCIS. Using this new tool, USCIS aims to promote online filing for individuals for convenience and ease for all parties involved.
What Is the Purpose?
E-COA allows for individuals with a USCIS online account to update both mailing and physical addresses for pending applications, petitions, or requests in one central location. This central location would allow for there to no longer be the need to update addresses across multiple platforms including filling the traditional paper AR-11 form, Alien’s Change of Address Card; contacting the Contact Center; or physically visiting local USCIS offices. With the introduction of this new tool, it allows individuals to stay up to date on their address change process by staying connected to USCIS through the online platform as opposed to mailing in a physical copy of the AR-11 form with no updates on their address change process. The tool is set to automate address changes for most form types. The exceptions to this are outlined on the USCIS website and below.
Exceptions
However, individuals protected under 8 USC 1367, including those with pending or approved applications or petitioners for Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) benefits, T nonimmigrant status, or U nonimmigrant status, and their beneficiaries or derivatives, cannot use E-COA during the initial phase. Specific instructions are provided on the USCIS website for both represented and unrepresented individuals with VAWA-, T-, or U-related cases, as well as for those who requested parole for an Afghan national.
How To Use the New Tool
To utilize the E-COA tool, individuals must have a USCIS online account and provide their last name, date of birth, new physical and mailing addresses, along with details about their pending application, petition, or request. It is crucial to note that changing the address with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) does not automatically update the address with USCIS. Users are advised to update information separately with both USCIS and USPS. For now, this E-COA tool is offered exclusively in English and can be accessed through a USCIS online account. The E-COA tool is available currently for utilization though one’s individual online USCIS account.