Quick answer
What is USCIS Form I-356 used for?
This form should be used to request cancellation of a public charge bond that was submitted on behalf of an alien on Form I-945, Public Charge Bond. Form I-356 can be submitted to request cancellation of the public charge bond by the alien on whose behalf the public charge bond was posted, the alien’s attorney or accredited representative, if any, or, if the alien is deceased, the executor of the alien’s estate. Form I-356 can also be filed by the obligor (the person who posted the bond for the alien) or the obligor’s authorized agent (co-obligor, for surety companies only). For more information about public charge bonds, please see the USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 8, Part G, Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility.
What to prepare before filling I-356
- 01
Confirm that Form I-356, Request for Cancellation of Public Charge Bond, matches the specific benefit, request, verification, or record you need.
- 02
Download the current Form I-356 and its separate instructions from USCIS, then compare the edition date before typing any answers.
- 03
For Form I-356, collect the identity records, receipt or account numbers, dates, addresses, and prior immigration documents that support your answers.
- 04
Follow the official Form I-356 filing method and address; do not assume it can be submitted through a USCIS online account.
Current official filing details
The details below are condensed from the USCIS page reviewed on 2026-07-26. Follow the official page and instructions if they differ from this snapshot.
Edition date
01/20/25. You can find the edition date at the bottom of the page on the form and instructions.
Where to file
USCIS Attn: Form I-356 10 Application Way Montclair, CA 91763-1350
When to file
A public charge bond will be cancelled once the alien dies, has permanently departed from the United States, is naturalized, or after the fifth anniversary of the alien becoming a lawful permanent resident. See Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) section 213 and 8 CFR 103.6(c)(1).
A public charge bond may also be cancelled at any time if USCIS finds that the alien is not likely to become a public charge. When examining whether the public charge bond can be cancelled, USCIS evaluates whether there has been a breach of the bond and all requirements for cancellation are met.
Filing fee
You can find the filing fee for Form I-356 by visiting our Fee Schedule page.
Official I-356 downloads and filing links
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What is Form I-356 used for?
This form should be used to request cancellation of a public charge bond that was submitted on behalf of an alien on Form I-945, Public Charge Bond.
How much does Form I-356 cost?
You can find the filing fee for Form I-356 by visiting our Fee Schedule page.
Can I file Form I-356 online?
The USCIS all-forms directory does not list a general online filing option for this form. Follow the official page for the required filing method.
Related USCIS form guides
Travel, status & waivers
Form I-945
Public Charge Bond
Other USCIS forms
Form G-28
Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative
Other USCIS forms
Form G-28I
Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney in Matters Outside the Geographical Confines of the United States
Other USCIS forms
Form G-325R
Biographic Information (Registration)
Other USCIS forms
Form G-1256
Declaration for Interpreted USCIS Interview
Other USCIS forms
Form I-129S
Nonimmigrant Petition Based on Blanket L Petition
Source: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Independent guide by Clerks AI; not affiliated with USCIS and not legal advice.
Last researched 2026-07-26. Recheck the official page before filing.