USPS Form 1583 Notary for Non-U.S. Residents: 2026 Guide
Yes, a non-U.S. resident may be able to complete and notarize USPS Form 1583 when opening a U.S. private mailbox through a Commercial Mail Receiving Agency (CMRA). You do not need to be a U.S. citizen merely because the form is issued by USPS. The practical challenge is providing current identification and reliable evidence of your permanent foreign address that your mailbox provider will accept.
Why Non-U.S. Residents Need PS Form 1583
PS Form 1583 authorizes a CMRA-such as a virtual mailbox or private mailbox company-to receive U.S. mail for you. USPS rules require a separate application for each addressee using a private mailbox for personal or residential use. The CMRA keeps the completed form and verifies the applicant's identity and permanent address.
Living outside the United States does not remove these verification requirements. Your permanent address may be outside the U.S., but it must be entered consistently and supported by acceptable evidence.
What Identification Is Required?
USPS rules require two current forms of identification. One must be an acceptable primary ID, and the other must be an acceptable secondary ID. Both must contain enough information to confirm your identity and be traceable to you.
| Purpose | Common option for an overseas applicant | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Primary photo identification | Current passport | Use the exact name shown on the passport and record the issuing authority and expiration date accurately. |
| Secondary identification | Bank statement, utility bill, current lease, mortgage or deed, home or vehicle insurance, vehicle registration, or another CMRA-approved address document | It should show your name and current permanent address. Ask the CMRA whether translation is required. |
| Foreign-language evidence | Original document plus a complete English translation when requested | The CMRA controls its document-review process and may require a particular translation format. |
Do not assume that a Social Security card, credit card, or birth certificate will satisfy this process. USPS identifies those as unacceptable for CMRA applications. A Social Security number is not a substitute for the required identification documents.
How to Complete the Form from Outside the United States
- Get the current form from your mailbox provider. Some providers prefill the CMRA mailbox address or give field-specific instructions.
- Enter your permanent foreign address consistently. Match the spelling, apartment number, city, postal code, and country to your secondary address document.
- Enter your ID details exactly. Record the type of ID, identifying number, issuing authority, and expiration date where requested.
- Complete any business section that applies. If the mailbox is for a company, provide the organization's legal name and the additional information required by the form and your CMRA.
- Follow the signing instructions. The applicant's signature must be properly witnessed by the CMRA's authorized representative or a notary public under the applicable procedure.
- Return the notarized form and supporting IDs to the CMRA. The mailbox provider makes the final decision on whether the submission package is complete.
Common Problems for International Applicants
- The address on the form does not match the address evidence
- The passport or secondary identification has expired
- The applicant submits two photo IDs but no document proving the permanent address
- The issuing authority or expiration date is entered incorrectly
- A foreign-language address document is submitted without a translation requested by the CMRA
- The applicant uses a nickname instead of the legal name shown on the ID
- The form is signed or dated in a way that does not follow the notary or CMRA instructions
Can Form 1583 Be Notarized Online?
Remote online notarization may be an option when the notary is legally permitted to perform it and the mailbox provider accepts the resulting electronic document. Acceptance is controlled by the CMRA and any other receiving party, so confirm this in advance. Do not rely only on a general statement that online notarization is available.
For broader pricing information, see the Online Notary Cost Guide.
What to Prepare for Notary20
- Your completed PS Form 1583
- A clear copy of your current passport or other acceptable primary ID
- A clear secondary document showing your permanent address
- An English translation if your mailbox provider requires one
- Any provider-specific instructions or prefilled mailbox information
Notary20 offers online notarization for $20 per document. Before starting, confirm that your CMRA accepts remote online notarization and electronic documents.
Start Your USPS Form 1583 Notarization
If your mailbox provider accepts remote online notarization and your documents are ready, you can submit your request online.
FAQ
Can a person who lives outside the United States use PS Form 1583?
Potentially, yes. A non-U.S. resident opening a private U.S. mailbox may complete the form, but must meet USPS identification requirements and the CMRA's submission rules.
Do I need a U.S. Social Security number?
The USPS CMRA rules focus on current primary and secondary identification. Ask your specific mailbox provider whether it collects any additional information for its own compliance process.
Can I use a foreign passport?
A current passport is commonly used as primary photo identification. Confirm acceptance with the CMRA and make sure all recorded details match the passport exactly.
What can I use to prove my foreign address?
Depending on the CMRA's review, options may include a bank statement, utility bill, current lease, mortgage or deed, insurance policy, or vehicle registration showing your name and permanent address.
Will my mailbox provider accept an online notarization?
Only the mailbox provider can confirm acceptance. Ask whether it accepts a remotely notarized electronic PS Form 1583 before you begin.