Principal Identity
Full legal name, date of birth, passport or A-number where available, and current mailing address to avoid identity confusion during processing.
A well-drafted Visa Authority Document reduces processing delays, clarifies who may receive case information, and documents consent for third-party actions. It helps USCIS or consular officers determine whether a representative is authorized to act.
Keep an executed copy with both the principal and the representative; include it in any submission package when a third party files or accepts service.
An attorney who files petitions and represents clients before USCIS. The Visa Authority Document must clearly show client consent, include the attorney bar number where applicable, and permit receipt of official notices and requests for evidence.
An HR representative authorized to submit corporate sponsorship materials and receive case updates. The document should name the company, the employee, and the precise actions HR may perform.
Full legal name, date of birth, passport or A-number where available, and current mailing address to avoid identity confusion during processing.
Representative full name, organization, contact details, and professional identifier (bar number or accreditation) when applicable for formal representation.
Specify tasks allowed (file petitions, receive notices, attend interviews, sign forms on behalf) and explicitly list any excluded actions to prevent disputes.
Start and end dates, or an event-based termination (for example, 'until final adjudication'), so authorities know when the authorization applies.
Typed or handwritten signature of the principal plus date. If representative signature is required, include their signature and date as well.
If the receiving authority requires notarization or witnesses, include the appropriate blocks and follow jurisdictional rules to ensure acceptance.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signer Authentication | Email link with optional SMS code or advanced KBA for higher assurance. |
| Routing Order | Sequential or parallel routing depending on whether the principal or employer signs first. |
| Notarization | Include RON or in-person notary step if the jurisdiction or receiving agency requires it. |
| Record Storage | Archive signed PDF and audit trail for the retention period required by law. |
Ensure the platform can produce a tamper-evident signed PDF and supply an audit trail for submission and later verification.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
A multinational employer delegates visa filing to its HR vendor
An immigrant signs an authority authorizing counsel to receive USCIS mail