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The DS-3032 form plays a crucial role for individuals navigating the U.S. immigration process, particularly for those seeking an immigrant visa. This form allows applicants to designate an agent or attorney to receive mail and updates regarding their application. It’s important to choose this carefully, as communications from the State Department will be directed accordingly. While the form asks for basic information like your name and address, it also ensures that the applicant can indicate if they no longer wish to pursue an immigrant visa. The completion of this form is generally straightforward, estimated to take about ten minutes. This is part of a broader effort to streamline processes, as the Department of State is testing an electronic application system hoping to reduce reliance on paper forms in the near future. Additionally, the form operates under strict confidentiality regulations, safeguarding visa issuance and refusal records from unauthorized access. Understanding how to fill out and submit the DS-3032 can be critical in maintaining clear communication throughout your immigration journey.

Form Sample

*The Department is currently testing an electronic application system for nonimmigrant visa application that will allow electronic submission and eliminate paper forms. Once testing on this application system is completed the Department is examining whether or not the system can be used for the immigrant visa system.
Paperwork Reduction Act Statement
*Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 10 minutes per response, including time required for searching existing data sources, gathering the necessary documentation, providing the information and/or documents required, and reviewing the final collection. You do not have to supply this information unless this collection displays a currently valid OMB control number. If you have comments on the accuracy of this burden estimate and/or recommendations for reducing it, please send them to: [email protected] .
Confidentiality Statement
INA Section 222(f) provides that visa issuance and refusal records shall be considered confidential and shall be used only for the formulation, amendment, administration, or enforcement of the immigration, nationality, and other laws of the United States. Certified copies of visa records may be made available to a court which certifies that the information contained in such records is needed in a case pending before the court.
DS-3032 03-2013
Signature of Applicant
Date of Signature (mm-dd-yyyy)
.
I no longer wish to apply for an immigrant visa.
As proof of your choice, sign and date this document:
USCIS office. My A# is
received my Green Card through the
I have already legally immigrated to the U.S. and do not need to apply for an immigrant visa. I (City)
*Email Address

Make sure the address is complete and correct. We will use this address for future mailings.

OMB No. 1405-0126 EXPIRATION DATE: 03-31-2016 ESTIMATED BURDEN: 10 minutes*

Place Case Barcode Strip Here Before Mailing to the National Visa Center

U.S. Department of State

CHOICE OF ADDRESS AND AGENT

For Immigrant Visa Applicants

Print or Type your Full Name

(Last Name)

(First Name)

(MI.)

Check one box only to the left of the statement that is your choice.

I Appoint

Telephone Number

as my agent or attorney to receive mail about my application. Mail from the U.S. Department of State concerning my immigrant visa application should be sent to:

Name of the person who will act as your agent or attorney for receipt of mail

 

 

 

Telephone Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Street Address (where my agent or attorney will receive mail about my application)

 

 

 

*Email Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City

 

State/Province

Postal Code

 

Country

 

I do not appoint an agent or an attorney to receive mail about my application. Mail from the U.S. Department of State concerning my immigrant visa application should be sent to me at:

Street Address (Include "in care of" if Needed)

 

City

State/Province

Postal Code

Country

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Document Specifications

Fact Name Details
Form Purpose The DS-3032 form is used to indicate the choice of address and agent for immigrant visa applicants.
Electronic Submission The Department is testing an electronic application system that may replace paper forms in the future.
Public Reporting Burden It takes an estimated 10 minutes to complete the form, including gathering documentation and reviewing the information.
OMB Control Number You must provide the requested information only if the form displays a currently valid OMB control number.
Confidentiality Visa issuance and refusal records are confidential under INA Section 222(f) and used solely for legal purposes.
Agent Appointment Applicants can appoint an agent to receive mail regarding their visa application or choose to receive mail personally.
Signature Requirement A signature and date are required from the applicant to confirm their decision on visa application.
Contact Information Applicants must provide complete mailing and contact information for future communications from the Department.

Steps to Filling Out Ds 3032

Completing the DS-3032 form isn't overly complicated, but it requires careful attention to detail. Follow the outlined steps closely to ensure your application is accurate and submitted correctly.

  1. Begin by downloading the DS-3032 form from the official website or obtaining a hard copy.
  2. Print the form if you are filling it out by hand, or you may fill it out electronically if that option is available.
  3. Provide your full name at the top of the form, entering your last name, first name, and middle initial, as applicable.
  4. In the section titled "Choice of Address and Agent," read the statements carefully.
  5. Check only one box to indicate your preference: whether you appoint someone as your agent or attorney, or if you wish to receive mail directly.
  6. If you appoint an agent or attorney, fill in their name and contact details, including telephone number, street address, email address, city, state/province, postal code, and country.
  7. If you choose not to appoint an agent, provide your own mailing address in the designated section, ensuring all information is accurate and complete.
  8. Complete the section that asks for your A# (Alien Number) if you have one, as well as any additional required information.
  9. Sign and date the form in the designated area to affirm your choices.
  10. Place the case barcode strip in the specified area on the form.
  11. Review the completed form for accuracy, making sure all necessary fields are filled out correctly.
  12. Mail the form to the National Visa Center, using the address provided on the form.

After submitting your DS-3032 form, the next steps typically involve waiting for further communication from the U.S. Department of State regarding your immigrant visa application. Be sure to monitor your email and physical mail for any updates or additional requests for information.

More About Ds 3032

What is the DS-3032 form?

The DS-3032 form is used by individuals applying for immigrant visas. It allows applicants to designate a preferred mailing address for communication regarding their visa application, as well as to appoint an agent or attorney who will receive mail on their behalf. This step is an essential part of the immigrant visa process, ensuring that applicants can stay informed about their case status.

Who needs to complete the DS-3032 form?

Individuals who are applying for an immigrant visa through the U.S. Department of State must complete the DS-3032 form. This includes those who have recently been approved for a visa petition and are transitioning to the next steps in the visa application process. If someone has already immigrated to the U.S. and no longer requires a visa, they do not need to fill out this form.

How do I submit the DS-3032 form?

The DS-3032 form must be mailed to the National Visa Center (NVC) as part of your immigrant visa application process. Ensure that you include the necessary case barcode strip located on your documents when mailing it. Proper submission helps avoid delays in receiving further instructions or updates regarding your application.

What if I do not wish to continue with my immigrant visa application?

If you decide not to proceed with your immigrant visa application, you can indicate your choice on the DS-3032 form. You will need to sign and date the form to formally express this decision. This step will help ensure that your application is not processed further.

What does it mean to appoint an agent or attorney on the DS-3032 form?

By appointing an agent or attorney, you authorize someone else to receive mail and communications related to your visa application on your behalf. This can be beneficial if you are unable to check your mail regularly. When designating an agent, it is important to provide their correct name, address, and contact information on the form.

What is the estimated time to complete the DS-3032 form?

Filling out the DS-3032 form is estimated to take about 10 minutes on average. This timeframe includes searching for required documents, gathering information, and reviewing your responses before submission. Keeping your responses accurate can help streamline the overall process.

Is the information I provide on the DS-3032 form confidential?

Yes, the information contained in the DS-3032 form is considered confidential under U.S. immigration law. Specifically, INA Section 222(f) protects visa issuance and refusal records. Generally, this information is used solely for the administration and enforcement of U.S. immigration laws.

What happens if I forget to include my case barcode strip?

If you forget to include your case barcode strip when mailing the DS-3032 form, it may lead to delays in processing your application. The barcode helps the National Visa Center identify your case, so it is critical to include it. Ensure you review your submission carefully to avoid this oversight.

Can I update my address or change my agent after submitting the DS-3032 form?

Yes, if you need to update your address or change your appointed agent after submitting the DS-3032 form, you can do so. However, it is best to communicate these changes to the National Visa Center directly as soon as possible. Keeping this information current ensures that you remain informed about your visa application status.

Common mistakes

  1. Incorrect Personal Information: Applicants often fail to provide accurate personal details, such as the exact spelling of their name or their current address. This can lead to delays.

  2. Missing Signature: Failing to sign the DS-3032 form is a common mistake. Without a signature, the form is considered incomplete and will not be processed.

  3. Improper Date Format: Some individuals mistakenly use an incorrect date format. It is essential to use mm-dd-yyyy as specified in the form.

  4. Choosing Multiple Options: The form directs applicants to select only one option in certain sections. Choosing more than one option leads to confusion and potential rejection of the form.

  5. Inconsistent Information: Providing information that does not match other documents can trigger issues. Discrepancies can delay processing time significantly.

  6. Ignoring the Agent or Attorney Section: Many applicants overlook the section for appointing an agent or attorney. Clearly indicating this choice is crucial for proper communication.

  7. Leaving Fields Blank: Applicants should avoid leaving any mandatory fields blank. Omitting information can hinder the processing of their application.

  8. Providing Outdated Contact Information: Some applicants include old email addresses or phone numbers, making it difficult for the Department of State to reach them regarding their application.

Documents used along the form

The DS-3032 form is essential for individuals applying for an immigrant visa. While this form plays a critical role, several other documents and forms accompany it to ensure a successful application process. Here’s a brief overview of those commonly used forms.

  • DS-260: This is the Immigrant Visa Electronic Application form. It collects vital information about the applicant, including personal details, background, and more, and is processed online.
  • DS-261: This is the Online Choice of Address and Agent form. It allows applicants to designate someone to receive communication regarding their case or to take responsibility for their address, guiding the process along.
  • Form I-864: The Affidavit of Support form demonstrates that the applicant has financial backing from a sponsor in the U.S., ensuring they will not become a public charge.
  • Form I-130: The Petition for Alien Relative form is used to establish a relationship with a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Approval of this form is essential before moving forward.
  • Form I-485: This is the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. It is for individuals who are already in the U.S. and wish to adjust their immigration status to become a permanent resident.
  • DS-260 Supplement A: This is an additional form for certain applicants who may need to provide further details about their application based on specific circumstances.
  • Medical Examination Results: Applicants must undergo a medical examination by an authorized physician. The results must be submitted as part of the application.
  • Police Clearance Certificate: This document verifies the applicant’s criminal background. It may be required based on the applicant's country of residency.
  • Passport: A valid passport is necessary for the visa application process, including application submissions and interviews at the consulate.

Each of these documents plays a significant role in the visa application process, contributing to a clearer picture of the applicant’s eligibility and status. Having them properly filled out and submitted is crucial for a smooth experience.

Similar forms

The DS-260 form is similar to the DS-3032 form in that both are utilized in the immigrant visa application process. The DS-260 is the Online Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application. It gathers comprehensive information about the applicant, including personal, family, and employment history. Both forms require the applicant's consent and choice regarding their appointment of an agent or attorney to handle communication with the U.S. Department of State. The purpose of these forms is to ensure that applicants provide necessary information for the processing of their immigration requests.

The I-130 form, Petition for Alien Relative, is another document that functions similarly to the DS-3032 form. This form is used by U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to establish the relationship with an alien relative who wishes to immigrate to the United States. Like the DS-3032, the I-130 requires information about the petitioner and the beneficiary, including addresses and contact details. Both documents are essential in facilitating communication and decision-making during the immigration process.

The I-485 form, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, shares similarities with the DS-3032, as both involve significant steps in the immigration journey. The I-485 allows individuals already in the U.S. to apply for a change in their immigration status to that of a permanent resident. Similar to the DS-3032, this form also looks for clear identification of the applicant and information about their current immigration status. Both are designed to streamline the processing of visas in different stages of immigration.

The DS-260, as mentioned earlier, is part of the set of documents needed for obtaining an immigrant visa. The N-400 form, Application for Naturalization, complements the DS-3032 with its focus on the eventual status of an immigrant. While the DS-3032 can be used as a statement of choice regarding representation, the N-400 serves to seek U.S. citizenship when eligible. Both forms require detailed personal information and ensure appropriate notifications regarding the processing of applications.

The G-28 form, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, aligns with the DS-3032 by allowing applicants to designate an attorney or representative. This form formalizes the relationship between the applicant and their chosen legal counsel. Like the DS-3032, it acts to notify the U.S. Department of State about who will be receiving communications related to the applicant's case, enhancing clarity and ensuring that correct information is communicated to the appropriate parties.

The I-131 form, Application for Travel Document, is also associated with the immigration process similar to the DS-3032. The I-131 allows individuals to apply for a re-entry permit, refugee travel document, or advance parole. Both forms require supplying personal information and confirming the applicant's intent regarding their status, enabling the related governmental bodies to manage and process requests effectively. Each document serves to facilitate a specific aspect of the wider immigration framework.

Finally, the I-864 form, Affidavit of Support, aligns with the DS-3032 as both are integral parts of the immigrant visa process. The I-864 is required to demonstrate that the immigrant will not become a public charge after arriving in the U.S. This form necessitates detailed financial information from the sponsor, just as the DS-3032 requires personal information from the applicant. Both forms are crucial for processing immigrant visas and assure authorities of the immigrants' support systems in the U.S.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DS-3032 form, consider the following do’s and don’ts to ensure a smooth process:

  • Do double-check your personal information for accuracy.
  • Do use clear and legible handwriting or type the information if possible.
  • Do provide a complete address for future correspondence.
  • Do sign and date the form as required.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank.
  • Don't forget to check only one box for your choice of agent or address.
  • Don't submit the form if it is not signed or dated.
  • Don't include unnecessary information that does not pertain to the application.

Misconceptions

Misunderstandings about the DS-3032 form can lead to confusion during the visa application process. Here are eight common misconceptions explained clearly:

  1. The DS-3032 form is optional for everyone. While it may seem optional, it is required for certain visa application processes. Failing to submit it when necessary can delay your application.
  2. The form can be filled out in any format. This is incorrect. The DS-3032 must be completed according to the guidelines provided. Use the specified format to avoid processing errors.
  3. Submitting the form electronically means you won't receive any paper communications. Even with electronic submission, important communications may still be sent via mail. Keep an eye on both your email and postal mail.
  4. The DS-3032 form is the same as the visa application. This form is not the visa application itself. It is specifically for choosing your address and agent. Make sure to complete both forms as required.
  5. You have to provide a new agent every time. Not necessarily. If you are happy with your current agent, you can continue with them without needing to appoint a new one for every application.
  6. Once the form is submitted, you cannot make changes. You can request changes if needed, but it may require additional steps. Always double-check your information before final submission.
  7. There isn't a time limit for submitting the DS-3032. There is a deadline for submitting this form as part of your visa application. Missing this deadline can affect your application status.
  8. All personal information on the form is public. This is false. Personal data submitted with the DS-3032 is protected and treated confidentially, in line with privacy regulations.

Understanding these points can help ensure a smoother experience when dealing with visa applications and related forms.

Key takeaways

Here are some key takeaways regarding the completion and use of the DS 3032 form:

  • Purpose of the Form: The DS 3032 is used by immigrant visa applicants to choose an address and agent for communication about their application.
  • Electronic Submission: The Department is currently testing an electronic application system that may eliminate the need for paper forms in the future.
  • Confidentiality: Visa issuance and refusal records are confidential. They are only used for immigration law enforcement and may be accessed by courts under specific circumstances.
  • Reporting Burden: Completing this form typically takes an estimated 10 minutes, which includes gathering necessary documents and reviewing the information.
  • Signature Requirement: Applicants need to sign and date the DS 3032 to confirm their intentions related to the application.
  • Mailing Instructions: It is crucial to provide the correct mailing address on the form, as this will be used for all future correspondence regarding the visa application.