How to Fill Out Form DS-4081
Understand what Form DS-4081 is, how to complete it, and what to expect when renouncing your citizenship
Renouncing U.S. citizenship is a serious legal decision and one that involves multiple steps and forms. One of the most important is Form DS-4081, officially called “Statement of Understanding Concerning the Consequences and Ramifications of Renunciation or Relinquishment of U.S. Citizenship.”
Whether you’re considering expatriation for tax reasons, personal convictions, or to embrace another nationality, this guide will help you understand what Form DS-4081 is, how to complete it, and what it means for your future.
What Is Form DS-4081?
Form DS-4081 is used by U.S. citizens who are voluntarily giving up (or “renouncing”) their citizenship at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. It is part of the renunciation process, and signing this form indicates that you understand the consequences of your decision.
Form DS-4081 is one of several required documents you must sign in front of a U.S. consular officer. You cannot submit this form online or by mail; it must be signed in person as part of a formal interview.
Why Form DS-4081 Is Important
The U.S. government treats renunciation of citizenship as a permanent and serious legal action. Form DS-4081 ensures that:
- You are renouncing voluntarily and without coercion
- You understand that you will lose all rights and protections as a U.S. citizen
- You may be subject to tax and legal consequences
- The decision is irrevocable in most cases
Signing this form confirms that you understand what you’re giving up and that your decision is fully informed.
Who Can Fill Out Form DS-4081?
To fill out this form, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Have (or be eligible for) citizenship in another country
- Appear in person at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad
Important:
While children under the age of 18 can renounce citizenship, it is rare for a consular officer to determine that a child is acting voluntarily and fully understands the consequences of their actions. As such, individuals in this position have a six-month window to reclaim their U.S. citizenship once they turn 18.
Form DS-4081: Process Overview
- Contact your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate to request a renunciation appointment. You must schedule an appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate outside of the United States.
- Prepare required documents, including:
- Your current U.S. passport
- Proof of another nationality (passport or naturalization certificate)
- Certain completed but unsigned forms, including Form DS-4081
- Attend your interview(s) and sign all forms in the presence of a consular officer.
- Pay the fee at the time of your appointment.
- Wait for your Certificate of Loss of Nationality to be issued.
How to Fill Out Form DS-4081
Before you can fill out Form DS-4081, you must first contact your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate to request a renunciation appointment. You must schedule an appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate outside of the United States.
Form DS-4081 includes a prewritten statement outlining the legal, financial, and social consequences of renouncing U.S. citizenship. You are required to read and acknowledge each item by initialing or signing the form during your renunciation appointment.
Here’s what to expect when filling out the form and how to answer each section:
- Personal Information: Provide your full legal name, date of birth, place of birth, and current nationality.
- Statement of Understanding: The form contains numbered statements outlining the consequences of renunciation, such as loss of rights, tax implications, inability to regain citizenship, and potential statelessness. You must read each statement carefully. The consular officer will review these with you and answer any questions.
- Acknowledgement: You must initial or sign next to each statement to confirm your understanding. If you do not understand English, an interpreter and witnesses are required; all documents must be read to you in your language, and you must sign both the English and translated versions.
- Signature: Sign and date the form in the presence of the consular officer. The officer will also sign to attest that you understood and willingly completed the form.
- Corrections: Any amendments or corrections must be initialed by you, the consular officer, and any witnesses.
Legal Consequences of Submitting Form DS-4081
Renouncing your citizenship is permanent in most cases and can have long-lasting effects:
- You lose the right to live or work in the U.S.
- You may be barred from certain U.S. jobs or benefits
- You must pay any outstanding taxes, including an “exit tax” if you meet certain financial thresholds
- You may be subject to visa restrictions when reentering the U.S.
The Reed Amendment also allows the U.S. government to bar reentry to individuals who renounced for tax avoidance purposes, though it’s rarely enforced.
Important:
Renunciation may not erase previous U.S. tax obligations or federal investigations. Consult a tax or immigration attorney before proceeding.
Things to Consider Before You Renounce Your Citizenship
- Have you spoken to a lawyer? An attorney can help you understand the implications of your decision.
- Do you already have citizenship in another country? If not, you could become stateless.
- Are you doing this for tax reasons? You may still be liable for U.S. taxes for years after renouncing.
Bottom Line
Form DS-4081 is one of the most important documents you’ll complete when renouncing U.S. citizenship. It confirms that you understand what you’re giving up and why it matters. The process isn’t quick or inexpensive, but it can be a valid option for those who are sure about their decision and want to move forward with clarity. If you’re considering renunciation, it’s a good idea to gather the facts, consult with qualified legal experts, and move forward with full understanding.