The Submission of Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) is a crucial step in the immigration process where a sponsor demonstrates the financial ability to support an intending immigrant. This form helps ensure that the immigrant will not become a public charge by documenting the sponsor's income and assets. Proper completion and submission of Form I-864 are essential for visa approval and adjustment of status applications.
Affidavit of Support signed and dated by the sponsor
An Affidavit of Support signed and dated by the sponsor is a legal document ensuring financial responsibility for an immigrant. It demonstrates the sponsor's commitment to support the applicant during their stay. This affidavit is often required in immigration processes to prevent public assistance dependency.
Supporting evidence of sponsor’s income (tax returns, W-2s)
Providing supporting evidence of sponsor's income is essential for verifying financial capability. This typically includes tax returns and W-2 forms, which demonstrate consistent earnings and tax compliance. These documents help ensure the sponsor can meet financial obligations.
Proof of sponsor’s U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status
To verify eligibility, applicants must provide proof of sponsor's U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status. This documentation ensures the sponsor's legal ability to support the applicant. Common forms include a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or green card.
Joint sponsor’s Affidavit of Support (if required)
The Joint sponsor's Affidavit of Support is a legal document required when the primary sponsor does not meet the financial criteria to support an immigrant. This affidavit ensures that the immigrant will not rely on public benefits by proving adequate financial resources. It is necessary to legally binding commitment demonstrating financial responsibility for the immigrant's well-being.
Proof of relationship to the intending immigrant
Providing proof of relationship to the intending immigrant is essential for immigration applications. This documentation verifies the genuine connection between the parties involved. Common examples include birth certificates, marriage licenses, or affidavits from family members.
Sponsor’s recent pay stubs or employment letter
Providing a sponsor's recent pay stubs or an employment letter is essential to verify financial stability. These documents serve as proof of consistent income and employment status. They help ensure the sponsor can support the applicant effectively.
Documentation of assets (bank statements, property deeds) if income insufficient
Proper documentation of assets, such as bank statements and property deeds, is essential when income is insufficient. These documents provide proof of financial stability and help support loan or credit applications. Ensuring accurate and up-to-date records can improve approval chances.
Household member’s Form I-864A (if combining income/assets)
The Household member's Form I-864A is used to combine income and assets to meet the financial requirements for a visa or green card application. It allows a household member to contribute their financial resources to support the intending immigrant. This form is essential for ensuring the sponsor meets the minimum income threshold required by immigration authorities.
Transcript from the IRS showing filed federal tax returns
The transcript from the IRS provides an official summary of filed federal tax returns. It includes key details such as reported income, tax payments, and refund information. This document is essential for verifying tax filing status and resolving discrepancies with the IRS.
Copy of the intending immigrant’s government-issued identification
The intending immigrant's government-issued identification serves as an essential document validating the individual's identity in immigration processes. It typically includes details like name, date of birth, and photograph, ensuring authenticity and security. This identification is required to facilitate accurate record-keeping and legal verification.
What is the primary purpose of submitting an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) during the immigration process?
The primary purpose of submitting an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) is to demonstrate that the intending immigrant has adequate financial support. This form ensures the immigrant will not become a public charge or dependent on government assistance. It legally binds the sponsor to provide financial support if necessary.
Who is legally required to submit Form I-864 on behalf of an intending immigrant?
The individual legally required to submit Form I-864 is typically the petitioner or sponsor, usually a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. This person must have a qualifying familial or legal relationship with the intending immigrant. In some cases, a joint sponsor may also be required if the primary sponsor does not meet the income criteria.
What financial criteria must a sponsor meet to qualify for submitting Form I-864?
A sponsor must demonstrate an income at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their household size, including the intending immigrant. Employment verification, recent tax returns, and proof of income are required to meet these financial criteria. If the sponsor does not meet the threshold, a joint sponsor may be needed.
How does submitting Form I-864 establish the sponsor's responsibility for the intending immigrant?
By submitting Form I-864, the sponsor assumes a legally enforceable obligation to support the immigrant financially. This means the sponsor agrees to provide for basic needs like food, housing, and healthcare until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen or can be credited with 40 quarters of work. The government can hold the sponsor accountable if the immigrant receives means-tested public benefits.
What are the consequences of failing to submit a properly completed Form I-864 with the application?
Failing to submit a properly completed Form I-864 can lead to application delays or denial of the immigrant visa or adjustment of status. Without this form, USCIS cannot confirm financial sponsorship, which is a critical requirement. Additionally, it may result in the immigrant being deemed likely to become a public charge, causing further legal complications.