Overseas Aid Forms: State Dept Seeks Input on Immigrant Petitions
Published Date: 5/5/2026
Notice
Summary
The Department of State wants to keep collecting info from U.S. government employees or their families living abroad who apply for special immigrant status. They’re asking for public feedback by July 6, 2026, to make sure the process is clear and not too time-consuming. This update won’t cost applicants extra but helps keep the paperwork smooth and fair.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
You must file Form DS-1884
You (an employee or former employee of the U.S. government abroad, or a surviving spouse or child) must submit Form DS-1884 to apply for special immigrant classification under INA 203(b)(4). The Department estimates 3,000 respondents, an average completion time of 15 minutes per response, a total estimated burden of 750 hours, and the form is filed once per application.
Multiple ways to get and submit the form
You can obtain a paper copy of Form DS-1884 from consular posts abroad or download it from https://eforms.state.gov, and you may submit the completed form in person at the consular section, by mail, or by email. If emergent or humanitarian circumstances apply, a consular officer may allow you to file at an alternative consular section.
60-day public comment window
The Department is requesting public comment on this information collection and will accept comments through July 6, 2026. You may submit comments via Regulations.gov (Docket Number DOS-2026-0430), email to [email protected], or regular mail to the Senior Regulatory Coordinator, Visa Services, Department of State.
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Key Dates
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