Your visa number is printed on the front of your visa stamp or sticker, usually in the upper right corner

The visa number is a unique identifier assigned to your individual visa. It appears as a series of digits on the physical visa itself — the stamp or sticker in your passport. On most visas, you'll find it in the upper right area of the visa page, though the exact placement varies slightly depending on the visa type and when it was issued.

This number is different from your passport number. Your passport number identifies you as a traveler; your visa number identifies that specific permission to enter the United States. You'll need the visa number when you fill out arrival forms, update your immigration status, or contact US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) about your case.

Key Takeaways

  • The visa number appears on the physical visa stamp or sticker in your passport, usually in the upper right corner.
  • It is a separate number from your passport number and your case number.
  • You will need it to complete arrival forms, contact USCIS, or update your immigration status.
  • If your visa has been replaced or renewed, each visa has its own unique number.

How visa numbers are formatted

US visa numbers are typically 8 to 10 digits long. They appear printed directly on the visa itself in a dedicated field. The exact format and location can vary slightly depending on whether your visa is a traditional stamp, a newer adhesive sticker, or an electronic visa (if applicable to your visa category).

The number is always printed in black ink and is clearly labeled on the visa document. It is not handwritten or filled in by hand — it is part of the official visa issuance. If you cannot locate a number on your visa, check that you are looking at the correct page and that the visa has not faded or been damaged.

Where exactly to look on your visa page

Open your passport to the page where your US visa is stamped or affixed. The visa itself occupies most of that page. Look toward the upper right portion of the visa — this is where the visa number field is most commonly placed. It will be labeled and the number will appear next to it.

If you have multiple visas in your passport (from different trips or visa categories), each one has its own separate number. Make sure you are reading the number from the correct visa. Some passports have visas on facing pages, so double-check you are on the right side.

Visa number versus other identification numbers

It is straightforward to confuse the visa number with other numbers on your documents. Your passport number is located on the information page of your passport (usually the first page with your photo) and identifies your passport itself. Your case number or receipt number is assigned by USCIS if you filed a petition or process and appears on your receipt notice, not on the visa.

When a form asks for your "visa number," it is asking specifically for the number printed on the visa stamp or sticker. When it asks for your "passport number," that is a different number. Reading the form carefully will tell you which one is needed.

What to do if you cannot find your visa number

If your visa is old, faded, or damaged, the number may be difficult to read. Hold the passport up to light and look carefully at the upper right area of the visa. If the visa is severely damaged or the number is completely illegible, contact the US embassy or consulate that issued the visa — they have a record of your visa number in their system.

If your visa has expired and you no longer have it (because you renewed your passport and the old passport was returned to you), you can still find the number. Check any old passports you kept. If you cannot locate it, USCIS or the embassy can look it up using your name, date of birth, and passport number.

When you will need your visa number

You will need your visa number when you arrive in the United States and complete your arrival form (Form I-94 or the electronic equivalent). You may also need it if you contact USCIS about your case, if you are changing your status while in the US, or if you are renewing your visa at a US embassy or consulate abroad.

Some employers or schools may also ask for it when processing your work or student visa. Keep a record of your visa number in a safe place — writing it down separately from your passport is a good practice in case you need to reference it quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the visa number the same as my case number?

No. Your visa number is on the visa itself. Your case number (or receipt number) is assigned by USCIS if you filed a petition and appears on your receipt notice. They are different numbers for different purposes.

What if I have a new passport but my old visa is still valid?

You can still use the visa. Bring both your old passport (with the visa) and your new passport when you travel. The visa number is the one printed on the visa in your old passport. Some forms may ask for both passport numbers — your old one (where the visa is) and your new one.

Can I find my visa number online?

USCIS does not publish visa numbers in online accounts. You must look at the physical visa in your passport. If you have lost your passport, contact the US embassy or consulate that issued the visa with your name and date of birth, and they can provide the number.

Does every visa type have a number in the same location?

Most US visas have the number in the upper right area, but placement can vary slightly by visa type and issuance date. Check the upper right first, then scan the entire visa if you do not find it there. The number will always be clearly labeled on the visa itself.