DS-4079, Explained

The DS-4079 is also used in instances where a U.S. citizen wishes to legally give up their citizenship status. Renouncing U.S. citizenship is not a casual or informal act. It involves a formal procedure, which typically includes taking an oath or signing an official statement before a consular officer at a U.S. Embassy or consulate. To renounce U.S. citizenship, you must be at least 18 years old. Before you can receive official confirmation of your loss of U.S. citizenship from the State Department, you’ll need to prove that you “performed an expatriating act voluntarily” by filing the DS-4079 and following the specific process outlined below.

If you’d like to inquire about the status of your U.S. nationality or voluntarily renounce your citizenship, here are the general steps to file the DS-4079:

• Complete the DS-4079: The DS-4079 form can be downloaded on the State Department’s site here. You should read the form instructions carefully, answering each question on the form as accurately and completely as possible. DS-4079s are submitted to the U.S. Department of State, specifically to the Bureau of Consular Affairs.
• Schedule an Appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate: After completing your DS-4079, you will need to schedule an appointment at the U.S. Embassy or consulate in your country of residence. At the appointment, a consular officer will review your DS-4079 and supporting documents, to determine whether any additional evidence is required or the government has enough information to make a determination on your request. Be sure to reach out to your U.S. Embassy or consulate directly for detailed instructions on scheduling an appointment and what to expect.
• Gather Required Documents: During your appointment with a consular officer, you’ll need to present your completed DS-4079 and specific supporting documents to support your application. The following documents may be required: Evidence of your U.S. citizenship or identity: U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or U.S. birth certificate, etc. Proof of a legal name change (if applicable): Court order, marriage certificate, divorce decree, etc. Evidence of other nationality/nationalities: Foreign birth record, foreign-issued passport, etc. NOTE: Supporting documents must be originals or certified copies. U.S. Embassies and consulates generally do not accept photocopies or notarized copies.
• Statement of Voluntary Relinquishment of U.S. Citizenship: If you are voluntarily giving up your U.S. citizenship, you will be required to complete an additional section on the DS-4079 before a consular officer. The “Statement of Voluntary Relinquishment of U.S. Citizenship” is a sworn statement that confirms with the Bureau of Consular Affairs that you intend to give up your citizenship. Be sure to sign and date this portion of the form legibly during your appointment at the U.S. Embassy or consulate.