Outline
The California Re 205 form is an essential document for individuals seeking various licenses within the real estate sector. This form collects vital information about the applicant, including their name, identification number, and the type of application they are submitting, whether it be for a real estate broker, salesperson, or other related roles. A significant aspect of the Re 205 is the citizenship and immigration status declaration, where applicants must confirm their status as a U.S. citizen or provide documentation proving their legal presence if they are not. This section ensures compliance with state regulations and helps maintain the integrity of the real estate profession. Furthermore, the form requires applicants to declare the truthfulness of their responses under penalty of perjury, emphasizing the importance of honesty in the application process. Accompanying the Re 205 are lists of acceptable documents that establish U.S. citizenship or alien status, guiding applicants in providing the necessary proof. Understanding the components of this form is crucial for anyone looking to navigate the licensing process in California's real estate industry.
Sample - California Re 205 Form
SECTION I — APPLICANT INFORMATION
ApplicAnt's nAme iD number (IF KNOWN OR APPROPRIATE)
Former nAme (AS RECORDED ON PROOF OF LEGAL PRESENCE DOCUMENT)
type oF ApplicAtion
reAl estAte broker reAl estAte oFFicer prepAiD rentAl listing service license
reAl estAte sAlesperson minerAl, oil AnD gAs broker pAyment From the reAl estAte
recovery Account
SECTION II — CITIZENSHIP/IMMIGRATION STATUS DECLARATION
1. Are you a citizen or national of the United States? ................................................................
If YES, where were you born? (List city, state (or equivalent), and country.)
________________________________________________________________________________________ (city)
____________________________________________________________________________ (state or equivalent)
_____________________________________________________________________________________ (country)
2. To establish proof of citizenship or nationality, please submit a legible and unaltered photocopy of one of the documents
on List A.
If you are a citizen or national of the United States, go directly to Section IV. If you are an alien, please complete
Section III and IV.
Yes No
Please indicate your alien status below, and submit photocopies of documents evidencing such status. The alien status
documents for each category as set forth on List B are the most commonly used documents that the United States
Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) provides to aliens in those categories.
SECTION III — ALIEN STATUS DECLARATION
An alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence under
the Immigration and Naturalization Act (INA).
An alien who is granted asylum under Section 208 of the
INA.
A refugee admitted to the United States under Section
207 of the INA.
An alien whose deportation is being withheld under Sec-
tion 243(h) of the INA.
An alien who is granted conditional entry under Section
203(a)(7) of the INA as in effect prior to April 1, 1980.
An alien paroled into the United States for at least one
year under Section 212(d)(5) of the INA.
An alien paroled into the United States for less than one
year under Section 212(d)(5) of the INA.
An alien who has been declared a “battered alien.”
An alien not in categories 1 through 7 who has been ad-
mitted to the United States for a limited period of time (a
non-immigrant). Non-immigrants are persons who have
SECTION IV — DECLARATION
I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the answers I have given are true and
correct to the best of my knowledge.
ApplicAnt’s signAture DAte:
»
State of California
Bureau of real eState
State Public benefitS Statement
RE 205 (Rev. 9/14)
RE 205 — Page 2 of 3
LIST A
ACCEPTABLE DOCUMENTS TO
ESTABLISH U.S. CITIZENSHIP
A person who is a citizen of the United States as evi-
denced by one of the following:
or other governmental entity within the United States
E. American Samoa.
a U.S. place of birth or indicates U.S. citizenship.
-
-
-
-
LIST B
ACCEPTABLE DOCUMENTS TO
ESTABLISH ALIEN STATUS
A
— Please submit legible photocopies not original documents —
b
RE 205 — Page 3 of 3
LIST B CONTINUED
Note:
Original License Section — Broker
P.O. Box 137002
Sacramento CA 95813-7002
Original License Section — Sales
P.O. Box 137002
Sacramento CA 95813-7002
License Renewal Section
P.O. Box 137003
Sacramento CA 95813-7003
Corporation/Broker Business
Support Section
P.O. Box 137004
Sacramento CA 95813-7004
Mail to appropriate section/unit:
Recovery Account Unit
P.O. Box 137007
Sacramento CA 95813-7007
— Please submit legible photocopies not original documents —
b
Form Information
| Fact Name | Details |
|---|---|
| Form Purpose | The California RE 205 form is used to declare citizenship or immigration status for applicants seeking real estate licenses. |
| Governing Law | This form is governed by the California Business and Professions Code, specifically related to real estate licensing. |
| Applicant Information | Applicants must provide personal details, including name, ID number, and type of application (e.g., broker or salesperson). |
| Citizenship Declaration | Applicants must indicate whether they are U.S. citizens or nationals and provide proof if applicable. |
| Alien Status Documentation | Non-citizens must submit documentation that verifies their legal presence in the U.S. according to specific categories outlined in the form. |
Detailed Guide for Filling Out California Re 205
Completing the California RE 205 form is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure that you fill it out correctly. After submitting the form, it will be processed by the Bureau of Real Estate, and you will receive further communication regarding your application status.
- Gather Required Information: Before starting, collect all necessary documents, including proof of citizenship or immigration status.
- Fill Out Applicant Information: Enter your name, ID number (if applicable), former name, and select the type of application you are submitting.
- Complete Citizenship/Immigration Status Declaration: Answer whether you are a U.S. citizen or national. If yes, provide your place of birth. If no, proceed to Section III.
- Provide Proof of Citizenship: If you are a U.S. citizen, attach a photocopy of an acceptable document from List A.
- Complete Alien Status Declaration: If you are not a U.S. citizen, indicate your alien status and attach photocopies of supporting documents from List B.
- Sign the Declaration: At the end of the form, sign and date the declaration stating that the information provided is true and correct to the best of your knowledge.
- Make Photocopies: Ensure all documents submitted are legible photocopies, not originals.
- Mail the Completed Form: Send the completed RE 205 form and any attachments to the appropriate Bureau of Real Estate address based on your application type.
Obtain Answers on California Re 205
-
What is the purpose of the California RE 205 form?
The California RE 205 form is used to declare citizenship or immigration status for individuals applying for various real estate licenses. This includes licenses for real estate brokers, salespersons, officers, and other related services. The form ensures compliance with state regulations regarding public benefits.
-
Who needs to complete the RE 205 form?
Anyone applying for a real estate license in California must complete the RE 205 form. This includes individuals applying as real estate brokers, salespersons, or for other related services. It is essential for both U.S. citizens and non-citizens to provide accurate information regarding their citizenship or immigration status.
-
What documents are required to establish U.S. citizenship?
To establish U.S. citizenship, applicants must submit a photocopy of one of the acceptable documents listed in List A of the RE 205 form. These documents include:
- A birth certificate issued in the U.S.
- A U.S. passport (expired or unexpired).
- A Certificate of Naturalization.
Providing a clear and unaltered photocopy is crucial for the application process.
-
What if I am not a U.S. citizen?
If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need to complete Section III of the RE 205 form, which pertains to alien status declaration. You must also submit photocopies of documents that establish your legal presence in the U.S. This may include various forms issued by the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS).
-
How should I submit the RE 205 form and supporting documents?
Submit the completed RE 205 form along with the required photocopies to the appropriate Bureau of Real Estate office. Ensure that you do not send original documents. The mailing addresses are specified in the instructions provided with the form. Always double-check that your submission is complete to avoid delays in processing your application.
Common mistakes
Filling out the California RE 205 form can be straightforward, but many applicants make common mistakes that can lead to delays or complications. One frequent error is failing to provide complete and accurate applicant information. This includes not only the applicant's name and ID number but also any former names if applicable. Omitting this information can cause confusion and may result in processing delays.
Another mistake involves the citizenship or immigration status declaration. Applicants often skip this section or provide vague answers. It is crucial to answer the questions clearly and accurately. If a person is a U.S. citizen, they must provide the place of birth. If they are an alien, they must complete the appropriate sections and submit the required documentation. Incomplete answers can lead to unnecessary complications.
Many applicants also overlook the importance of submitting legible photocopies of the required documents. The RE 205 form specifically requests photocopies, not originals. Submitting original documents can lead to loss or damage, while illegible copies can result in rejection of the application. Ensuring clarity and completeness in document submission is essential.
Moreover, some individuals fail to check the specific requirements for their alien status. Each category has different documentation needs, and applicants must ensure they provide the correct evidence. Ignoring this detail can result in significant delays or denial of the application.
Finally, applicants often neglect to sign and date the form. The declaration section requires a signature under penalty of perjury, affirming that the information provided is true. Failing to sign or date the form renders it invalid, causing further delays in processing. Attention to these details can streamline the application process and avoid unnecessary complications.
Documents used along the form
The California RE 205 form is an essential document for individuals applying for various real estate licenses in California. It serves to gather information regarding the applicant's citizenship or immigration status. Alongside the RE 205 form, several other documents are often required to ensure that applicants meet all necessary legal and regulatory standards. Below is a brief overview of four commonly used forms and documents that complement the California RE 205 form.
- State Public Benefits Information (RE 205A): This document provides vital information about the public benefits available in California and outlines the requirements for eligibility. Applicants must read this information before completing the RE 205 form, as it helps them understand the implications of their citizenship or immigration status.
- List A and List B Documents: These lists detail the acceptable documents that can be submitted to establish U.S. citizenship or legal alien status. List A includes documents like birth certificates and U.S. passports, while List B outlines various immigration forms that validate an individual's legal presence in the U.S. Applicants must refer to these lists to ensure they submit the correct documentation.
- State Public Benefits (Comprehensive List) (RE 205B): This document offers a complete list of acceptable documents for proving U.S. citizenship or legal alien status. It serves as a reference for applicants to ensure they provide the necessary paperwork to support their application.
- INS Forms: Various forms issued by the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) are often required to establish an individual's immigration status. These may include the Alien Registration Receipt Card (commonly known as a "green card") and Employment Authorization Cards. Such forms are critical for individuals who are not U.S. citizens but are applying for real estate licenses.
Understanding these additional documents is crucial for applicants to navigate the licensing process smoothly. By ensuring that all necessary forms and supporting documentation are correctly submitted, individuals can enhance their chances of a successful application and move forward in their real estate careers with confidence.
Similar forms
The California RE 205 form shares similarities with several other important documents. Below is a list of four such documents, highlighting how they are alike.
- Form I-551 (Green Card): Like the RE 205, this form serves as proof of legal permanent residency in the United States. Both require the submission of supporting documentation to establish identity and status.
- Certificate of Naturalization (N-550): This document confirms U.S. citizenship, similar to how the RE 205 verifies an applicant's citizenship status. Both documents require proof of identity and legal status.
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD): The EAD, like the RE 205, provides evidence of an individual’s legal status in the U.S. Both forms necessitate the submission of documentation to confirm eligibility and identity.
- Form I-94: This form records the arrival and departure of non-citizens in the U.S. It is similar to the RE 205 in that both documents require proof of legal status and identity from applicants.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the California Re 205 form, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and completeness. Below is a list of things you should and shouldn't do.
- Do read the attached State Public Benefits Information (RE 205A) before starting.
- Do provide your full name as it appears on your legal documents.
- Do submit a clear photocopy of the required documents to establish your citizenship or immigration status.
- Do answer all questions truthfully to the best of your knowledge.
- Do ensure that all information is legible and properly formatted.
- Don't submit original documents; only photocopies are acceptable.
- Don't leave any sections blank; fill in all required fields.
- Don't use correction fluid or tape on the form; if you make a mistake, start over.
- Don't forget to sign and date the form before submitting it.
- Don't assume that someone else will complete the form for you; take responsibility for your application.
Misconceptions
- Misconception 1: The RE 205 form is only for U.S. citizens.
- Misconception 2: You do not need to provide proof of citizenship or alien status.
- Misconception 3: All documents submitted must be original.
- Misconception 4: The RE 205 form is only for real estate brokers.
- Misconception 5: The RE 205 form does not require a signature.
- Misconception 6: You can submit any document as proof of citizenship or alien status.
- Misconception 7: The RE 205 form is a quick and simple process.
This form is designed for both U.S. citizens and aliens. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you can still complete the form by providing your alien status documentation.
It is essential to submit proof of your citizenship or alien status. This helps establish your eligibility for the application you are submitting.
You are required to submit photocopies of documents, not originals. This ensures that your original documents remain safe and intact.
This form is applicable to various applicants, including real estate salespersons, officers, and those applying for prepaid rental listing services, among others.
A signature is mandatory on the form. By signing, you declare that the information provided is true to the best of your knowledge, which is a critical legal requirement.
Only specific documents listed in Lists A and B are acceptable. Familiarizing yourself with these lists will ensure you provide the correct documentation.
While the form may seem straightforward, gathering the necessary documentation and completing the form accurately can take time. It is important to prepare thoroughly to avoid delays in processing.
Key takeaways
Key Takeaways for Filling Out and Using the California RE 205 Form
- Before starting, read the attached State Public Benefits Information (RE 205A). This document provides essential background information.
- Clearly indicate your citizenship or immigration status. If you are a U.S. citizen, provide proof such as a birth certificate or passport. If you are not, complete the alien status section.
- Ensure all photocopies submitted are legible and unaltered. Original documents should not be sent. This helps avoid delays in processing.
- Sign and date the declaration at the end of the form. This confirms that your answers are true and correct, which is crucial for your application.