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For many individuals seeking to enter the United States, the process involves not only adhering to stringent immigration policies but also demonstrating the financial ability to support themselves during their stay. One critical tool in this evaluation is the USCIS I-134 form, commonly known as the Affidavit of Support. This declaration serves as a promise from a sponsor, usually a family member or friend residing in the U.S., to financially support the immigrant. The importance of this document cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts visa applications, adjustment of status cases, and other immigration proceedings. With its complex requirements and implications for both the sponsor and the beneficiary, understanding the nuances of the I-134 form is essential for a smooth immigration process. This overview seeks to unravel the complexities of the form, offering insights into who needs to file it, the information required, and the obligations it entails for sponsors.
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Affidavit of Support |
USCIS |
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Department of Homeland Security |
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OMB No. |
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U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services |
Expires 02/28/2021 |
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►START HERE - Type or print in black ink.
Part 1. Information About You (the Sponsor)
Your Full Name
1.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
1.b. Given Name
(First Name)
1.c. Middle Name
Other Names Used
List all other names you have ever used, including aliases, maiden name, and nicknames. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 7.
Additional Information.
2.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
2.b. Given Name
(First Name)
2.c. Middle Name
Sponsor's Mailing Address |
(USPS ZIP Code Lookup) |
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3.a. In Care Of Name
3.b. Street Number
and Name
3.c. 
Apt. 
Ste. 
Flr.
3.d. City or Town
3.e. State |
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3.f. ZIP Code |
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3.g. Province
3.h. Postal Code
3.i. Country
4.Are your mailing address and physical address the same?
Yes 
No
If you answered "No" to Item Number 4., provide your physical address in Item Numbers 5.a. - 5.h.
Sponsor's Physical Address
5.a. Street Number
and Name
5.b. 
Apt. 
Ste. 
Flr.
5.c. City or Town
5.d. State |
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5.f. Province
5.g. Postal Code
5.h. Country
Other Information
6.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
7.a. Town or City of Birth
7.b. Country of Birth
8.Alien Registration Number
► A-
9.U.S. Social Security Number (if any)
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10.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)
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Citizenship or Residency or Status
If you are not a U.S. citizen based on your birth in the United States, or a
11.a. I am a U.S. citizen through naturalization. My Certificate of Naturalization number is
11.b. I am a U.S. citizen through parent(s) or marriage. My Certificate of Citizenship number is
Form |
Page 1 of 8 |
Part 1. Information About You (the Sponsor)
(continued)
11.c. |
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I derived my U.S. citizenship by another method. |
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(Provide an explain in Part 7. Additional |
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Information.) |
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11.d. |
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I am a lawful permanent resident of the |
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United States. My |
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11.e. |
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I am a lawfully admitted nonimmigrant. My |
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12. |
I am |
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years of age and have resided in the United |
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States since (Date) (mm/dd/yyyy) |
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Part 2. Information About the Beneficiary
This affidavit is executed on behalf of the following person:
1.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
1.b. Given Name
(First Name)
1.c. Middle Name
2.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
3. Gender 
Male 
Female
4.
► A-
5.Country of Citizenship or Nationality
6.Marital Status
Single or Single, Never Married
Married
Divorced
Widowed
Legally Separated
Marriage Annulled
Other
7.Relationship to Sponsor
Beneficiary's Physical Address
8.a. |
Street Number |
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and Name |
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Apt. |
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8.b. |
Ste. |
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8.c. |
City or Town |
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8.d. |
State |
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8.e. |
ZIP Code |
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8.f. |
Province |
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8.g. |
Postal Code |
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8.h. |
Country |
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Beneficiary's Spouse (accompanying or following to join beneficiary)
9.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
9.b. Given Name
(First Name)
9.c. Middle Name
10.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
11.Gender 
Male 
Female
Beneficiary's Children
Child 1
12.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
12.b. Given Name
(First Name)
12.c. Middle Name
13.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
14.Gender 
Male 
Female
Child 2
15.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
15.b. Given Name
(First Name)
15.c. Middle Name
16.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
17. Gender 
Male 
Female
If you need additional space to complete this section, use the
space provided in Part 7. Additional Information.
Form |
Page 2 of 8 |
Part 3. Other Information About the Sponsor
7.a. I have life insurance in the sum of $
Employment Information
I am currently:
1.a. Employed as a/an
1.a.1. Name of Employer (if applicable)
1.b. |
Self employed as a/an |
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Current Employer Address (if employed)
2.a. Street Number
and Name
2.b. 
Apt. 
Ste. 
Flr.
2.c. City or Town
2.d. State |
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2.e. ZIP Code |
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2.f. Province
2.g. Postal Code
2.h. Country
Income and Asset Information
3. My annual income is |
$ |
(If
4.Balance of all my savings and checking accounts in United
$
5.Value of my other personal property
$
6.Market value of my stocks and bonds
$
I have listed my stocks and bonds in Part 7. Additional Information (or attached a list of them), which I certify to be true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.
7.b. With a cash surrender value of
$
Real Estate Information
8.a. I own real estate valued at |
$ |
8.b. I have mortgages or other debts amounting to
$
My real estate is located at:
9.a. Street Number
and Name
9.b. 
Apt. 
Ste. 
Flr.
9.c. City or Town
9.d. State |
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9.e. ZIP Code |
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Dependents' Information
The following persons are dependent upon me for support. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 7. Additional Information.
10.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
10.b. Given Name
(First Name)
10.c. Middle Name
11.Relationship to Me:
12.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
13.This person is:
Wholly Dependent On Me For Support
Partially Dependent On Me For Support
14.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
14.b. Given Name
(First Name)
14.c. Middle Name
15.Relationship to Me:
16.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
Form |
Page 3 of 8 |
Part 3. Other Information About the Sponsor
(continued)
17.This person is:
Wholly Dependent On Me For Support
Partially Dependent On Me For Support
18.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
18.b. Given Name
(First Name)
18.c. Middle Name
19.Relationship to Me:
20.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
21.This person is:
Wholly Dependent On Me For Support
Partially Dependent On Me For Support
I have previously submitted affidavit(s) of support for the following person(s). (If none, write "None" in the space for name below.)
22.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
22.b. Given Name
(First Name)
22.c. Middle Name
23.Date Submitted (mm/dd/yyyy)
24.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
24.b. Given Name
(First Name)
24.c. Middle Name
25.Date Submitted (mm/dd/yyyy)
I have submitted a visa petition(s) to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on behalf of the following persons. (If none, write “None” in the space for name below.)
26.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
26.b. Given Name
(First Name)
26.c. Middle Name
27.Relationship to Me:
28. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
29. Date of Filing (mm/dd/yyyy)
30.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
30.b. Given Name
(First Name)
30.c. Middle Name
31.Relationship to Me:
32. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
33. Date of Filing (mm/dd/yyyy)
34.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
34.b. Given Name
(First Name)
34.c. Middle Name
35.Relationship to Me:
36. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
37. Date of Filing (mm/dd/yyyy)
38.I 
intend 
do not intend to make specific contributions to the support of the person(s) named in Part 2.
(If you select "intend," indicate the exact nature and duration of the contributions you intend to make in Part 7. Additional Information. For example, if you intend to furnish room and board, state for how long and, if money, state the amount in U.S. dollars and whether it is to be given in a lump sum, weekly or monthly, and for how long.)
Form |
Page 4 of 8 |
Part 4. Sponsor's Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature
NOTE: Read the Penalties section of the Form
Sponsor's Statement
NOTE: Select the box for either Item Number 1.a. or 1.b. If applicable, select the box for Item Number 2.
1.a. |
I can read and understand English, and I have read and |
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understand every question and instruction on this |
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affidavit and my answer to every question. |
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1.b. |
The interpreter named in Part 5. read to me every |
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question and instruction on this affidavit and my |
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answer to every question in |
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a language in which I am fluent and I understood |
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everything. |
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2. |
At my request, the preparer named in Part 6., |
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prepared this affidavit for me based only upon information I provided or authorized.
Sponsor's Contact Information
3.Sponsor's Daytime Telephone Number
4.Sponsor's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)
5.Sponsor's Email Address (if any)
Sponsor's Certification
Copies of any documents I have submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered, original documents, and I understand that USCIS or the Department of State may require that I submit original documents to USCIS or the Department of State at a later date. Furthermore, I authorize the release of any information from any of my records that USCIS or the Department of State may need to determine my eligibility for the immigration benefit I seek.
I further authorize release of information contained in this affidavit, in supporting documents, and in my USCIS or the Department of State records to other entities and persons where necessary for the administration and enforcement of U.S. immigration laws.
I understand that USCIS may require me to appear for an appointment to take my biometrics (fingerprints, photograph, and/or signature) and, at that time, if I am required to provide biometrics, I will be required to sign an oath reaffirming that:
1)I reviewed and provided or authorized all of the information in my affidavit;
2)I understood all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my affidavit; and
3)All of this information was complete, true, and correct at the time of filing.
I certify, under penalty of perjury, that I provided or authorized all of the information in my affidavit, I understand all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my affidavit, and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct.
That this affidavit is made by me to assure the U.S. Government that the person named in Part 2. will not become a public charge in the United States.
That I am willing and able to receive, maintain, and support the person named in Part 2. I am ready and willing to deposit a bond, if necessary, to guarantee that such persons will not become a public charge during his or her stay in the United States, or to guarantee that the above named persons will maintain his or her nonimmigrant status, if admitted temporarily, and will depart prior to the expiration of his or her authorized stay in the United States.
That I understand that Form
That I understand that Form
That I understand that if the person named in Part 2. does apply for Food Stamps, Supplemental Security Income, or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, my own income and assets may be considered in deciding the person's application. How long my income and assets may be attributed to the persons named in Part 2. is determined under the statutes and rules governing each specific program.
I acknowledge that I have read the section entitled Sponsor and Beneficiary Liability in the Instructions for this affidavit, and am aware of my responsibilities as a sponsor under the Social Security Act, as amended, and the Food Stamp Act, as amended.
Sponsor's Signature
6.a. Sponsor's Signature
6.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)
Form |
Page 5 of 8 |
NOTE TO ALL SPONSORS: If you do not completely fill out this affidavit or fail to submit required documents listed in the Instructions, USCIS or the Department of State may deny your affidavit.
Part 5. Interpreter's Contact Information, Certification, and Signature
Provide the following information about the interpreter.
Interpreter's Full Name
1.a. Interpreter's Family Name (Last Name)
1.b. Interpreter's Given Name (First Name)
2.Interpreter's Business or Organization Name (if any)
Interpreter's Mailing Address
3.a. Street Number
and Name
3.b. 
Apt. 
Ste. 
Flr.
3.c. City or Town
3.d. State |
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3.e. ZIP Code |
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3.f. Province
3.g. Postal Code
3.h. Country
Interpreter's Certification
I certify, under penalty of perjury, that: |
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I am fluent in English and |
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which is the same language provided in Part 4., Item Number 1.b., and I have read to this sponsor in the identified language every question and instruction on this affidavit and his or her answer to every question. The sponsor informed me that he or she understands every instruction, question, and answer on the affidavit, including the Sponsor's Certification, and has verified the accuracy of every answer.
Interpreter's Signature
7.a. Interpreter's Signature
7.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)
Part 6. Contact Information, Statement, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Affidavit, if Other Than the Sponsor
Provide the following information about the preparer.
Preparer's Full Name
1.a. Preparer's Family Name (Last Name)
1.b. Preparer's Given Name (First Name)
2.Preparer's Business or Organization Name (if any)
Interpreter's Contact Information
4.Interpreter's Daytime Telephone Number
5.Interpreter's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)
6.Interpreter's Email Address (if any)
Preparer's Mailing Address
3.a. Street Number
and Name
3.b. 
Apt. 
Ste. 
Flr.
3.c. City or Town
3.d. State |
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3.e. ZIP Code |
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3.f. Province
3.g. Postal Code
3.h. Country
Form |
Page 6 of 8 |
Part 6. Contact Information, Statement, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Affidavit, if Other Than the
Sponsor (continued)
Preparer's Contact Information
4.Preparer's Daytime Telephone Number
5.Preparer's Fax Number
6.Preparer's Email Address (if any)
Preparer's Statement
7.a.
I am not an attorney or accredited representative but have prepared this affidavit on behalf of the sponsor and with the sponsor's consent.
7.b. 
I am an attorney or accredited representative and my representation of the sponsor in this case
extends 
does not extend beyond the preparation of this affidavit.
NOTE: If you are an attorney or accredited representative whose representation extends beyond preparation of this affidavit, you may be obliged to submit a completed Form
Preparer's Certification
By my signature, I certify, under penalty of perjury, that I prepared this affidavit at the request of the sponsor. The sponsor then reviewed this completed affidavit and informed me that he or she understands all of the information contained in, and submitted with, his or her affidavit, including the Sponsor's Certification, and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct. I completed this affidavit based only on information that the sponsor provided to me or authorized me to obtain or use.
Preparer's Signature
8.a. Preparer's Signature
8.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)
Form |
Page 7 of 8 |
Part 7. Additional Information
If you need extra space to provide any additional information within this affidavit, use the space below. If you need more space than what is provided, you may make copies of this page to complete and file with this affidavit or attach a separate sheet of paper. Type or print your name and
5.a. Page Number 5.b. Part Number 5.c. Item Number
5.d.
Your Full Name
1.a. |
Family Name |
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(Last Name) |
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1.b. |
Given Name |
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(First Name) |
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1.c. |
Middle Name |
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2. |
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6.a. Page Number 6.b. Part Number 6.c. Item Number |
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► A- |
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3.a. |
Page Number 3.b. Part Number |
3.c. Item Number |
6.d. |
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3.d. |
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7.a. Page Number 7.b. Part Number 7.c. Item Number |
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4.a. Page Number 4.b. Part Number |
4.c. Item Number |
7.d. |
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4.d. |
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Form |
Page 8 of 8 |
File Characteristics
| Fact Number | Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Purpose of Form I-134 | The form is used to show that visa applicants have sponsorship and will not become public charges while in the United States. |
| 2 | Who Files Form I-134 | U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who want to support a visitor visa applicant financially during their stay in the U.S. |
| 3 | Validity Period | There is no predefined validity period for Form I-134; its validity typically depends on the visitor’s intended duration of stay. |
| 4 | Filing Fee | There is no filing fee for Form I-134. |
| 5 | When to File | It should be filed whenever a visa applicant needs to prove financial support to the U.S. Consulate or Embassy as part of their visa application. |
| 6 | Supporting Documents | Proof of the sponsor’s income and assets, employment, and residency status in the U.S. are typically required. |
| 7 | Governing Law | This form is governed by U.S. federal law, as the process relates to the admission of non-citizens into the United States. |
| 8 | Main Uses | Primarily used for visitor visas, but also applicable for other types of visas, including student visas under certain conditions. |
| 9 | Filing Location | The completed form, along with supporting documents, is typically submitted to the U.S. Consulate or Embassy handling the visa application. |
Steps to Writing USCIS I-134
Filling out the USCIS Form I-134, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a necessary step when someone is sponsoring a visitor to the United States. This form proves that the visitor will have financial support during their stay, ensuring they won't rely on public funds. Although the form might seem daunting at first glance, completing it can be straightforward if you follow these steps. Remember, accuracy and honesty are crucial throughout this process.
- Gather necessary documents, including your most recent tax returns, employment information, and proof of citizenship or legal residency.
- Start by entering your full name, address, and other basic personal information in the designated sections at the beginning of the form.
- Provide your date and place of birth in the specified sections.
- Detail your employment information, including the name and address of your employer, your job title, and the date you started working there.
- Fill in your income information. Use your most recent tax return to provide accurate figures for your annual income. Additional assets can be included to strengthen the affidavit.
- List the names of the people you are supporting on this affidavit. Include the visitor's name, relationship to you, and their country of citizenship.
- If you are sponsoring more than one person, provide the required information for each person on a separate sheet of paper and attach it to the form.
- Review the information on sponsor responsibilities. This section informs you about the legal obligations you assume by submitting this affidavit.
- Sign and date the form in the designated area. Your signature confirms that you understand your obligations and that all the information provided is true and accurate.
- Prepare to submit the form along with any supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS office or embassy/consulate handling the visitor's visa application.
After completing and submitting the I-134 form, the next step involves waiting for a response from USCIS or the embassy/consulate. The sponsored visitor may also need to attend an interview where the affidavit and their reasons for visiting will be reviewed. Keeping a copy of the submitted I-134 and all related documentation is wise, as it may be needed for future reference. Patience is key during this period, as processing times can vary.
Important Details about USCIS I-134
What is the USCIS I-134 form?
The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a document used to show that a visa applicant has sponsorship in the United States. This form proves that the applicant will not become a public charge, as the sponsor demonstrates the ability to support the visa applicant financially during their stay in the U.S.
Who needs to submit a USCIS I-134 form?
Visa applicants needing to prove financial support while in the United States are required to submit the I-134 form. It is commonly used by those applying for non-immigrant visas, such as a tourist, student, or fiancé(e) visa. The sponsor, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, is the one who fills out and submits the form on behalf of the applicant.
What information do I need to provide on the I-134 form?
When completing the I-134 form, sponsors are required to provide personal information, including their name, address, and date of birth, in addition to detailed financial information. This includes their annual income, the nature of their employment, any savings or assets, and details regarding their dependents. The sponsor must also declare their intention to support the visa applicant financially.
Is there a fee to submit the USCIS I-134 form?
No, there is currently no fee required to submit the I-134 form to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). However, it's important to note that other aspects of the visa application process may incur fees.
How do I submit the I-134 form?
The I-134 form can be submitted to the USCIS by mail. It is important to check the USCIS official website for the most current mailing address, as this may change. Additionally, be sure to follow all submission guidelines closely to ensure that the form is not rejected.
What happens after the I-134 form is submitted?
After the I-134 form is submitted, it will be reviewed by USCIS as part of the visa application process. The applicant may be asked to provide additional information or documentation. It is also possible that an interview will be required. Approval of this form does not guarantee visa issuance, as the applicant must meet all other visa eligibility requirements.
Can the I-134 form be rejected?
Yes, the I-134 form can be rejected if it is incomplete, contains inaccurate information, or if the sponsor does not meet the financial requirements to support the visa applicant. To avoid rejection, ensure all information is complete and accurate, and provide all requested supporting documents.
Common mistakes
One common mistake made when filling out the USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support form, is providing incomplete information. Applicants often overlook sections or fail to provide the required details, thinking they might not be applicable or important. This form is designed to assess the sponsor's financial ability to support the visitor, and every question plays a crucial role in the decision-making process. Therefore, it's crucial to thoroughly review and complete each section to avoid processing delays or denials.
Another error is misunderstanding the nature of the support being promised. The I-134 form is a legal document where the sponsor commits to financially supporting the visa applicant. This implies covering living expenses, healthcare, and any potential cost of repatriation. Sometimes, sponsors fail to grasp the financial commitment required, which can lead to issues later if the sponsor is unable or unwilling to fulfill these obligations.
Incorrect financial information is also a typical pitfall. Sponsors sometimes either underestimate or overestimate their income and assets, which can be due to a lack of understanding of what needs to be included or simple carelessness. Accurate financial information is crucial because it demonstrates the sponsor's ability to support the visa applicant. Errors or inaccuracies in this section can significantly impact the application's outcome.
Lack of supporting documents is another frequent mistake. The USCIS often requires additional documents to corroborate the information provided on the I-134 form, such as tax returns, bank statements, or employment letters. Failing to attach these documents, or providing incomplete or outdated information, can lead to delays or even denials. It is essential to check the latest requirements and ensure all requested supporting documents are included with the application.
Incorrectly assuming the duration of support can also lead to complications. Some sponsors believe their financial responsibility ends once the visa is granted, but the commitment can extend until the visitor leaves the United States or is able to financially support themselves. Misunderstandings about the duration of support can create legal and financial challenges for the sponsor.
Signatures are sometimes overlooked, yet this is a critical part of the process. Not signing the I-134 form or failing to have the signature notarized, if required, renders the application incomplete. The signature validates the sponsor’s commitment and acknowledges the legal responsibilities. Ensuring the document is correctly signed according to the instructions is a simple but crucial step.
Submitting outdated forms is another common error. The USCIS periodically updates its forms, including the I-134, to reflect current policies and requirements. Using an outdated form can lead to automatic rejection. It's imperative for sponsors to obtain the most recent version of the form from the USCIS website prior to completing and submitting it.
Finally, not consulting with a legal expert when necessary is a mistake. The I-134 form may seem straightforward, but its implications are significant, and errors can have lasting consequences. Some sponsors may benefit from professional advice to ensure the form is completed accurately and to navigate any complex financial or legal issues. Seeking expert guidance can help avoid common pitfalls and increase the likelihood of a successful application.
Documents used along the form
Filing the USCIS I-134, Affidavit of Support form, is a critical step in many immigration procedures, demonstrating that an immigrant has financial support in the United States. This affidavit often accompanies other important documents to ensure a comprehensive application process. Each document serves a unique purpose, providing detailed information to support the applicant's case.
- Passport: A valid passport is essential, serving as proof of the applicant's identity and nationality.
- Visa Application Form (DS-160): Commonly required for those applying for a nonimmigrant visa, detailing personal information and travel plans.
- Proof of Financial Support: Bank statements, employment letters, and pay stubs demonstrate the sponsor's ability to financially support the immigrant.
- Tax Returns: The most recent tax return of the sponsor proves their financial stability and compliance with U.S. tax laws.
- Employment Verification Letter: This letter from the sponsor's employer confirms their employment status and salary.
- Relationship Evidence: Documents such as marriage certificates or birth certificates authenticate the relationship between the sponsor and the applicant.
- Letter of Invitation: Especially for visitors visas, a letter from the U.S. sponsor inviting the applicant to the United States, detailing the purpose and length of the visit.
By compiling these documents along with the I-134 form, applicants and their sponsors can provide a thorough package, facilitating a smoother review process. Each document plays a vital role in painting a complete picture of the applicant's situation, enhancing the chances of a favorable outcome. It's important for both sponsors and applicants to be meticulous in gathering and completing these forms to avoid delays or denials.
Similar forms
The USCIS I-864, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA, is closely related to the USCIS I-134, Affidavit of Support. Both serve as legal documents to demonstrate that an immigrant will not become a public charge, relying on the financial support of a sponsor in the United States. However, the I-864 is specifically designed for family-based immigrants and certain employment-based immigrants, indicating a more binding commitment as it enforces the sponsor's financial responsibility until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen or can be credited with 40 quarters of work.
Another document similar to the I-134 is the USCIS Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. While the I-134 focuses on the affidavit of financial support for visitors, the I-765 is intended for individuals seeking the legal right to work in the United States. Both documents play crucial roles in the immigration process, facilitating different aspects of an immigrant’s legal status and ability to support themselves financially in the U.S.
The Department of State (DOS) DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, also shares similarities with the USCIS I-134. The DS-160 is a comprehensive form for people applying for temporary visas to the United States. Like the I-134, it requires detailed personal and financial information, but for the purpose of obtaining a visa rather than providing financial support. Both forms are critical in the visa application process, ensuring applicants meet the requirements for entering the U.S.
Lastly, the USCIS Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), is akin to the I-134 in its purpose of supporting immigration based on personal relationships. The I-129F is used by U.S. citizens to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the U.S. for marriage. After marriage, the sponsor may need to file an I-134 to prove their financial ability to support their spouse. While serving different steps in the immigration journey, both documents underscore the importance of financial stability and support in family-based immigration processes.
Dos and Don'ts
Filling out the USCIS I-134 form, an Affidavit of Support demonstrating financial support for a visitor to the United States, requires attention to detail and a clear understanding of the form's requirements. The following guidelines are designed to help ensure that the process is handled accurately and efficiently.
What You Should Do:
Ensure all information is current and accurate. Double-check dates, financial figures, and personal information to prevent errors that could delay processing.
Provide documentation to support your income claims. This may include bank statements, employment letters, and tax returns. Presenting clear evidence of your financial situation is critical.
Read instructions carefully before beginning. The USCIS provides detailed guidelines for each section of the I-134 form. Understanding these instructions can help avoid common mistakes.
Sign and date the form. A missing signature or date can result in the rejection of your form, hindering the support you intend to provide.
What You Shouldn't Do:
Do not leave sections blank. If a particular section does not apply, write “N/A” (not applicable) or “0” if it refers to numerical questions. This shows that you did not overlook the question.
Avoid guessing financial information. Ensure that all financial data you provide is backed by documentation and accurately reflects your current situation.
Do not ignore the requirement for additional documentation. If the form asks for additional documents to support your application, disregarding this requirement can result in delays or denial.
Refrain from using correction fluid or heavily scribbling over mistakes. If you need to correct an error, it's better to start with a fresh form to ensure readability.
Misconceptions
The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, often comes surrounded by misconceptions. Such misunderstandings can lead to mistakes that might affect the outcome of an immigration case or application. It is crucial to set the facts straight and dispel these myths to ensure accurate and effective use of the form.
- Only family members can be sponsors.
A common misconception is that only family members can fill out the I-134 form for someone seeking to visit the U.S. In truth, any U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident can act as a sponsor, provided they meet the income requirements to support the visitor. - It guarantees visa approval.
Some believe that submitting an I-134 form guarantees the applicant will receive their visa. However, this is not the case. The form simply demonstrates to the consular officer that the visitor won’t become a public charge. The officer’s decision is based on the totality of the circumstances. - Sponsorship is a lifetime commitment.
Unlike the I-864, Affidavit of Support for immigrant visas, the I-134 is for nonimmigrant visas and does not create a long-term financial commitment. The responsibility generally lasts for the duration of the visitor's stay in the United States. - The form is the same as the I-864.
Despite both being affidavits of support, the I-134 and I-864 serve different purposes for different visa categories. Mixing them up can lead to processing delays or even denials, as each form has its distinct requirements and implications. - Financial information must be disclosed to the immigrant.
Sponsors are sometimes concerned that they must reveal their financial details to the person they are sponsoring. Although the form does ask for financial information, it is submitted to the immigration authorities, not the person being sponsored. - The sponsor must own property.
There's a false belief that a sponsor must own property to be eligible. The truth is, financial ability to support the applicant is what’s important, not necessarily property ownership. - It’s only for short visits.
While typically associated with short-term visas, the I-134 can also be used to sponsor individuals coming to the U.S. for longer durations, provided their visa category does not require the I-864 form instead. The key is that the visit is temporary and nonimmigrant in nature. - Submitting an I-134 obligates the sponsor to cover all expenses.
Many potential sponsors worry they'll be financially responsible for every expense incurred by their visitor. The reality is that the form indicates the sponsor’s intention to support the applicant to prevent them from becoming a public charge, but it doesn’t necessarily cover all personal expenses.
Clearing up these misconceptions helps both sponsors and beneficiaries better understand the expectations and requirements of the USCIS I-134 form, paving the way for a smoother application process.
Key takeaways
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Form I-134, known as the Affidavit of Support, plays a crucial role in the immigration process for individuals planning to visit the U.S. This document is utilized by sponsors to show that visa applicants have sufficient financial support during their stay in the United States, minimizing the risk that the visitors will become a public charge. Here are key takeaways to consider while filling out and using the I-134 form:
- Understand the purpose: The I-134 form is essentially a legal commitment by a sponsor in the United States to support a visa applicant financially. It is often used for visitor visas, including the B-2 tourist visa or the K-1 fiancé(e) visa.
- Eligibility of sponsor: The sponsor must be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident with enough income or assets to support the intending immigrant, in addition to their own household.
- Completeness is crucial: Ensure that every section of the form is filled out accurately. Incomplete forms or those with incorrect information can delay the process or lead to a denial.
- Proof of financial ability: The sponsor must provide evidence of their financial stability. This can include tax returns, employment letters, bank statements, and other documents that prove the sponsor's ability to support the visitor.
- Legal implications: While the I-134 form is a bit less legally binding than the I-864 (Affidavit of Support used for immigrant visa applications), it still represents a serious commitment. The sponsor could be asked to cover certain public expenses if the visitor receives government assistance.
- Validity period: There's no official expiration for an I-134 affidavit once submitted, but sponsors should provide the most current and updated financial information possible. It's best if the financial documents are dated within a year of the visa application.
- No filing fee: Unlike many other USCIS forms, there is no filing fee for the I-134. This can make it a more accessible option for individuals seeking to sponsor a visitor to the U.S.
- Multiple sponsors: In some instances, more than one sponsor may be necessary to meet the financial requirement. Each sponsor must complete and sign a separate I-134 form.
- Importance of honesty: Providing false information on the I-134 can lead to severe penalties, including fines or imprisonment for the sponsor, and could adversely affect the visitor’s ability to enter the U.S.
- Consultation may be beneficial: Considering the complexities and legal implications of the I-134 form, potential sponsors may benefit from consulting with a legal expert specializing in immigration law to ensure the process is handled correctly.
Successfully completing and submitting the I-134 form is an important step in supporting someone's wish to come to the United States. It demonstrates the sponsor's commitment and ability to support the visitor and ensures compliance with U.S. immigration laws and regulations.
Additional PDF Forms
Yugioh Deck List Pdf - For Judge Use Only sections including Deck List Checked?, Infraction(s), and Deck Check Rd should be skipped.
Form 6059B Customs Declaration - The form serves to prevent the illegal trafficking of controlled substances, hazardous materials, and other prohibited items.