Where to Find the Number on a Visa

A visa serves as official authorization, typically stamped within a passport, granting permission to enter a foreign country for a specific purpose and duration. These documents contain numerical identifiers important for tracking and verifying travel authorization and immigration status. Understanding where these numbers are located helps navigate official processes, from entry and exit procedures to applying for extensions or other immigration benefits.

Common Locations of Key Identification Numbers

The most frequently sought number is the visa number, also known as the visa foil number. This unique identifier is printed in red ink, distinguishing it from other information, which is usually in black. On newer visa documents, this eight-digit number is consistently found in the bottom right-hand corner.

Another distinct numerical identifier is the control number. This longer, eleven-digit number is generally situated in the upper right corner of the visa stamp. Unlike the visa number, the control number is usually printed in black ink. While both numbers are present on the visa, their placement and color help differentiate their purposes and intended uses.

Understanding Different Numerical Identifiers

The visa number (or visa foil number) functions as a unique serial number assigned to each visa. This eight-digit code tracks immigration activity, including entries and exits. It is referenced in various immigration forms and applications, such as for visa renewals or status adjustments. This number provides a direct link to an individual’s visa record, facilitating status verification.

For non-immigrant visas, the visa number is temporary, aligning with the visa’s specific validity period. Conversely, for immigrant visas, which lead to permanent residency, this number remains a permanent identifier. Distinct from the visa number, the control number is an eleven-digit code primarily used for internal administrative tracking by the Department of State. This control number helps manage the visa application process.

Tips for Locating Numbers

When locating numbers on a visa, certain techniques can prove helpful. Since the visa number is often printed in a distinct red ink, searching for this color can quickly direct your attention to its location. Ensure adequate lighting is available to improve visibility of all printed information.

If text appears faded or unusually small, use a magnifying glass to clarify characters. Numbers might be printed in a less obvious orientation, such as vertically, so carefully examine all areas of the visa stamp. Focusing on the typical areas where these numbers are placed, like the bottom right or upper right corners, can streamline the search process.