USCIS Online Access Code Explained | How to Use It
A USCIS online access code is a one-time code mailed to you that lets you add a paper-filed case to your myUSCIS account without needing the petitioner's involvement.
In a nutshell
A USCIS online access code is a one-time alphanumeric code that USCIS mails to the address on your paper petition. You enter it on my.uscis.gov to link that petition to your myUSCIS account, so you can view updates and track the case online. It is separate from your receipt number and online account number.
What is the USCIS online access code?
When USCIS receives a paper-filed petition (such as an I-129 H1B filed by an employer on paper), they send a Notice of Action (I-797C) with a receipt number — and in some cases they also mail a separate notice containing an online access code to the beneficiary's address.
The access code is typically:
- A string of letters and numbers printed on the notice
- Valid for a limited time (check the notice for expiration)
- Specific to one case/receipt number
Your access code is mailed to your address on file
- USCIS sends the online access code to the address listed on your paper petition — not necessarily your current address. If you have moved since filing, the notice may go to the old address. Check with your employer's attorney about the address used on the petition.
How to use an online access code
- title: Steps to enter your online access code
- Go to my.uscis.gov and log in (or create a free account first)
- On your dashboard, look for "Add a case" or "Link a paper case"
- Enter your receipt number (from your I-797 notice)
- When prompted, enter the online access code from your separate code notice
- The case will appear in your myUSCIS dashboard with available status updates
Access code vs online account number
Both are ways to link a paper case to your myUSCIS account — but they work differently:
Avoid
- Online account number: You give it to your attorney before filing. They enter it on the paper petition. Requires coordination before the petition is filed.
Do this
- Online access code: USCIS mails it to your address. You enter it yourself on myUSCIS. Works even if your attorney did not enter your account number on the petition.
What if my access code expired or I never received one?
If the code has expired or you never received a code notice:
- Your employer's attorney can link the case on their end using your online account number
- You can contact USCIS to request a new code (call 1-800-375-5283)
- For basic status, you can always use egov.uscis.gov with just your receipt number
Frequently asked questions
Does every paper petition come with an online access code?
Not always. Access code notices are sent for many paper-filed cases but not all. Whether you receive one depends on USCIS systems and the specific form. Your attorney can also link the case using your online account number.
I entered my access code but the case is not showing. What next?
Allow 24–48 hours for the system to sync. If the case still does not appear, check that you entered the receipt number correctly (no spaces, all uppercase). Contact USCIS if the issue persists.
Is the access code the same as the receipt number?
No. The receipt number (13 characters, starts with 3 letters like EAC or LIN) is your permanent case tracking number. The access code is a temporary one-time code for linking the case to your myUSCIS dashboard.
See the step-by-step guide for adding a paper case
After you have your access code or online account number, follow these steps to link your petition.
Not sure what a USCIS notice means?
Use the USCIS Notice Decoder — select your notice type and form for plain-English guidance.
Try the Notice Decoder →