Just Moved? Updating Your Address with USPS Isn’t Enough

Moving isn’t just about figuring out where your mail should go. For most non-U.S. citizens, including Green Card holders, USCIS generally requires you to report a change of address within 10 days of moving.

Historically, USCIS has rarely enforced this requirement. However, failing to update your address can still have serious immigration consequences.

Fortunately, USCIS allows you to update your address online. Therefore, this requirement is not something you should overlook.

There’s another important point: USCIS will not automatically share your new address with the IRS. These are completely separate agencies.

You need to update your address with the IRS separately. For example, individuals can file Form 8822. If your business address or responsible party has changed, you can file Form 8822-B.

If you don’t notify the IRS, it may continue sending notices to your old address. As a result, you could miss important correspondence.

And saying, “I moved and never received the letter,” won’t always protect you from the consequences.

For example, the letter could contain a request for documents or a balance-due notice. It could also include a deadline to respond or appeal a decision.

You may never see the letter — but the clock keeps ticking.

📌 So, after you move, remember this simple rule:

USCIS — update your address within 10 days.
IRS — update your address separately.
USPS — set up mail forwarding separately.

Most importantly, keep in mind that government mail may not always be forwarded.

One move. Three separate updates.