Immigration Forms

Immigration forms are the key to all the many services and benefits offered by the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS). Whether it's Form AR-11 to change an address (printed in English, Spanish, Chinese, Russian, or Vietnamese), or DS-156, Nonimmigrant Visa Application, these forms are the first step in entering the United States, or altering information or status after entering.

There is not only a form to apply for nonimmigrant status; there is a Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-157), and a form for Contact Information and Work History for Nonimmigrant Visa Applicant (DS-158). Immigration forms alone could account for the popularity of immigration attorneys, whose job it is to guide clients through the maze of forms and procedures. The BCIS provides help via phone and online assistance for the convenience of those who want to ensure they understand the prerequisites for successfully navigating the immigration process.

Immigration Forms Online

The National Customer Service Center (NCSC) can be reached during certain hours for live assistance at 1-800-375-5283; its TTY number is 1-800-767-1833. These numbers are valid for the continental U.S., as well as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Forms, and information about immigration matters and status of an application, are available.

Perhaps the most convenient method of obtaining information and immigration forms is to go online to find the BCIS website. Visitors to the site can print out the "USCIS Online Customer Services Brochure," which is a guide to all the services available from the site. These include filing an application, downloading free forms, checking the status of a case, and making an appointment at a BCIS office.