Fill a Valid USCIS I-864 Form
The USCIS I-864 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, plays a crucial role in the immigration process for many individuals seeking permanent residency in the United States. This legally binding document is designed to ensure that immigrants have adequate financial support and will not become a public charge. By completing the I-864, a sponsor—often a family member or close friend—commits to providing financial assistance to the immigrant, thereby affirming their ability to meet certain income requirements. The form requires detailed information about the sponsor's income, assets, and household size, along with supporting documentation to verify financial stability. It also outlines the responsibilities of the sponsor, including the obligation to support the immigrant financially until they become a U.S. citizen or can be credited with 40 quarters of work. Understanding the nuances of the I-864 form is essential for both sponsors and immigrants, as it can significantly impact the success of the immigration application process.
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Similar forms
The USCIS I-864 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, serves a specific purpose in immigration processes. It demonstrates that a sponsor has the financial means to support an immigrant. While it is unique in its function, several other documents share similarities in their intent or structure. Here are eight documents that are comparable to the I-864 form:
- Form I-134, Affidavit of Support: This form is also used to show that a sponsor can financially support an immigrant. However, it is typically utilized for non-immigrant visa applications, such as tourist or student visas.
- Form I-864A, Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member: This document is used when a household member’s income is included in the sponsor's financial assessment. It establishes a legal agreement between the sponsor and the household member to support the immigrant.
- Form I-864EZ, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act: This is a simplified version of the I-864 form for sponsors who meet certain criteria. It streamlines the process for those with straightforward financial situations.
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative: While primarily a petition to establish a family relationship, it often accompanies the I-864. The I-130 form helps initiate the immigration process, and the I-864 provides the financial backing necessary for the immigrant's application.
- Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence: This form is used by conditional residents to remove their status. It often requires the submission of financial documents similar to those needed for the I-864, demonstrating ongoing support and stability.
- Form N-400, Application for Naturalization: When applying for U.S. citizenship, applicants may need to show proof of financial support and stability. Similar to the I-864, this form may require documentation of income and financial resources.
- Bill of Sale: The Bill of Sale form serves as a crucial document for recording the transfer of ownership for personal property, ensuring both buyer and seller are protected in the transaction.
- Form I-864W, Request for Exemption for Intending Immigrant's Affidavit of Support: This form is for certain immigrants who are exempt from the affidavit requirement. It shares the purpose of clarifying financial responsibility but applies to specific categories of applicants.
- Tax Returns and W-2 Forms: While not forms submitted to USCIS, these financial documents are often required alongside the I-864. They provide evidence of the sponsor's income and financial stability, which is crucial for the affidavit's approval.
Document Example
Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA |
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U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services |
Expires 10/31/2021 |
For
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Affidavit of Support Submitter

Petitioner

1st Joint Sponsor

2nd Joint Sponsor

Substitute Sponsor

5% Owner
Section 213A Review
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requirements |
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Date (mm/dd/yyyy):
Number of Support Affidavits in File
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Remarks
To be completed by an |
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►START HERE - Type or print in black ink.
Part 1. Basis For Filing Affidavit of Support
I, |
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am the sponsor submitting this affidavit of support because (Select only one box):
1.a. |
I am the petitioner. I filed or am filing for the |
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immigration of my relative. |
1.b. |
I filed an alien worker petition on behalf of the |
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intending immigrant, who is related to me as my |
Mailing Address |
(USPS ZIP Code Lookup) |
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2.a. In Care Of Name
2.b. Street Number
and Name
2.c. 
Apt. 
Ste. 
Flr.
2.d. City or Town
1.c. |
I have an ownership interest of at least 5 percent in |
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which filed an alien worker petition on behalf of the |
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intending immigrant, who is related to me as my |
1.d. |
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I am the only joint sponsor. |
2.e. State
2.g. Province
2.h. Postal Code 2.i. Country
2.f. ZIP Code
1.e. |
I am the |
first |
second of two joint sponsors. |
1.f. |
The original petitioner is deceased. I am the |
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substitute sponsor. I am the intending immigrant's |
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NOTE: If you are filing this form as a sponsor, you must include proof of your U.S. citizenship, U.S. national status, or lawful permanent resident status.
Other Information
3.Country of Citizenship or Nationality
4.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
5.Alien Registration Number
►A- 






Part 2. Information About the Principal Immigrant
1.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
1.b. Given Name
(First Name)
1.c. Middle Name
6.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)
►







7.Daytime Telephone Number
Form |
Page 1 of 10 |
Part 3. Information About the Immigrants You Are Sponsoring
1.I am sponsoring the principal immigrant named in Part 2.
Yes |
No (Applicable only if you are sponsoring |
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family members in Part 3. as the second |
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joint sponsor or if you are sponsoring |
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family members who are immigrating |
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more than six months after the principal |
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immigrant) |
2. I am sponsoring the following family members immigrating at the same time or within six months of the principal immigrant named in Part 2. (Do not include any relative listed on a separate visa petition.)
3. I am sponsoring the following family members who are immigrating more than six months after the principal immigrant.
Family Member 1
4.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
4.b. Given Name
(First Name)
4.c. Middle Name
5.Relationship to Principal Immigrant
6. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
7.Alien Registration Number
► A-
8.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)
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Family Member 2
9.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
9.b. Given Name
(First Name)
9.c. Middle Name
10.Relationship to Principal Immigrant
11. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
12.Alien Registration Number
► A-
13.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)
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Family Member 3
14.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
14.b. Given Name
(First Name)
14.c. Middle Name
15.Relationship to Principal Immigrant
16.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
17.Alien Registration Number
► A-
18.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)
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Family Member 4
19.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
19.b. Given Name
(First Name)
19.c. Middle Name
20.Relationship to Principal Immigrant
21.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
22.Alien Registration Number
► A-
23.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)
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Family Member 5
24.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
24.b. Given Name
(First Name)
24.c. Middle Name
25.Relationship to Principal Immigrant
26.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
27.Alien Registration Number
► A-
28.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)
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Form |
Page 2 of 10 |
Part 3. Information About the Immigrants You Are Sponsoring (continued)
29. Enter the total number of immigrants you are sponsoring on |
this affidavit which includes the principal immigrant listed |
in Part 2., any immigrants listed in Part 3., Item |
Numbers 1. - 28. and (if applicable), any immigrants listed |
for these questions in Part 11. Additional Information. |
Do not count the principal immigrant if you are only |
Sponsor's Physical Address
4.a. Street Number
and Name
4.b. 
Apt. 
Ste. 
Flr.
4.c. City or Town
sponsoring family members entering more than 6 months |
after the principal immigrant. |
Part 4. Information About You (Sponsor)
Sponsor's Full Name
4.d. State
4.f. Province
4.g. Postal Code
4.h. Country
4.e. ZIP Code
1.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
1.b. Given Name
(First Name)
1.c. Middle Name
Sponsor's Mailing Address
2.a. In Care Of Name
2.b. Street Number
and Name
2.c. 
Apt. 
Ste. 
Flr.
2.d. City or Town
2.e. State |
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2.f. ZIP Code |
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2.g. Province
2.h. Postal Code
2.i. Country
3.Is your current mailing address the same as your physical
address? |
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If you answered "No" to Item Number 3., provide your physical address in Item Numbers 4.a. - 4.h.
Other Information
5.Country of Domicile
6. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
7.City or Town of Birth
8.State or Province of Birth
9.Country of Birth
10.U.S. Social Security Number (Required)
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Citizenship or Residency |
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11.a. |
I am a U.S. citizen. |
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11.b. |
I am a U.S. national. |
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11.c. |
I am a lawful permanent resident. |
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12.Sponsor's
► A-
13.Sponsor's USCIS Online Account Number (if any)
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Military Service (To be completed by petitioner sponsors only.)
14.I am currently on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces
or U.S. Coast Guard. |
Yes |
No |
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Form |
Page 3 of 10 |
For
USCIS
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Only
Part 5. Sponsor's Household Size
NOTE: Do not count any member of your household more than once.
Persons you are sponsoring in this affidavit:
5.
6.
Retired Since (mm/dd/yyyy)
Unemployed Since (mm/dd/yyyy)
1.Provide the number you entered in Part 3., Item Number
29.
Persons NOT sponsored in this affidavit:
2. Yourself.
3.If you are currently married, enter "1" for your spouse.
4.If you have dependent children, enter the number here.
5.If you have any other dependents, enter the number here.
6.If you have sponsored any other persons on Form
enter the number here.
7.OPTIONAL: If you have siblings, parents, or adult children with the same principal residence who are combining their income with yours by submitting Form
8.Add together Part 5., Item Numbers 1. - 7. and enter the number here.
Household Size:
Part 6. Sponsor's Employment and Income
I am currently:
1. Employed as a/an
2.Name of Employer 1
7.My current individual annual income is:
$
Income you are using from any other person who was counted in your household size, including, in certain conditions, the intending immigrant. (See Form
Person 1
8.Name
9.Relationship
10. |
Current Income |
$ |
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Person 2 |
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11. |
Name |
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12. |
Relationship |
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13. |
Current Income |
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Person 3
14.Name
15.Relationship
16. Current Income |
$ |
Person 4
3. Name of Employer 2 (if applicable) |
17. Name |
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4.
18. |
Relationship |
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19. Current Income |
$ |
Form |
Page 4 of 10 |
For
USCIS
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Only
Household Size

1 
2
3

4 
5
6

7 
8
9

Other
Poverty Guideline
Year: 2 0
Poverty Line:
$
Remarks
Part 6. Sponsor's Employment and Income
(continued)
20.My Current Annual Household Income (Total all lines from Part 6. Item Numbers 7., 10., 13., 16., and 19.; the total will be compared to Federal Poverty Guidelines on
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$ |
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21. |
The people listed in Item Numbers 8., 11., 14., and |
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17.have completed Form
22. One or more of the people listed in Item Numbers 8., 11., 14., and 17. do not need to complete Form
Name
Federal Income Tax Return Information
23.a. Have you filed a Federal income tax return for each of the
three most recent tax years? |
Yes |
No |
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NOTE: You MUST attach a photocopy or transcript of your Federal income tax return for only the most recent tax year.
23.b. (Optional) I have attached photocopies or transcripts of my Federal income tax returns for my second and third most recent tax years.
My total income (adjusted gross income on Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form 1040EZ) as reported on my Federal income tax returns for the most recent three years was:
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Total Income |
24.a. Most Recent |
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$ |
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24.b. 2nd Most Recent |
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24.c. 3rd Most Recent |
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25. I was not required to file a Federal income tax return as my income was below the IRS required level and I have attached evidence to support this.
Part 7. Use of Assets to Supplement Income
(Optional)
If your income, or the total income for you and your household, from Part 6., Item Numbers 20. or 24.a. - 24.c., exceeds the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your household size, YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED to complete this Part 7. Skip to Part 8.
Your Assets (Optional)
1.Enter the balance of all savings and checking accounts.
$
2.Enter the net cash value of
$
3.Enter the net cash value of all stocks, bonds, certificates of deposit, and any other assets not already included in Item Number 1. or Item Number 2.
$
4.Add together Item Numbers 1. - 3. and enter the number
here. |
TOTAL: $ |
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Assets from Form
5.a. Name of Relative
5.b. Your household member's assets from Form
(optional).$
Assets of the principal sponsored immigrant (optional).
The principal sponsored immigrant is the person listed in Part 2., Item Numbers 1.a. - 1.c. Only include the assets if the principal immigrant is being sponsored by this affidavit of support.
6.Enter the balance of the principal immigrant's savings and
checking accounts. |
$ |
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7.Enter the net cash value of all the principal immigrant's real estate holdings. (Net value means investment value
minus mortgage debt.) |
$ |
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8.Enter the current cash value of the principal immigrant's stocks, bonds, certificates of deposit, and other assets not included in Item Number 6. or Item Number 7.
$
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Page 5 of 10 |
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Household Size |
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Poverty Guideline |
Sponsor's Household Income |
Remarks |
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Year: 2 0 |
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Poverty Line: |
The total value of all assets, line 10, must equal 5 times (3 times for spouses and children of |
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USC's, or 1 time for orphans to be formally adopted in the U.S.) the difference between the |
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poverty guidelines and the sponsor's household income, line 10. |
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Part 7. Use of Assets to Supplement Income |
What If I Choose Not to Sign Form |
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(Optional) (continued) |
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The U.S. Government cannot make you sign Form |
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9. |
Add together Item Numbers 6. - 8. and enter the number |
do not want to do so. But if you do not sign Form |
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intending immigrant may not become a lawful permanent |
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here. |
$ |
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resident in the United States. |
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Total Value of Assets |
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What Does Signing Form |
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10. |
Add together Item Numbers 4., 5.b., and 9. and enter the |
If an intending immigrant becomes a lawful permanent resident |
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number here. |
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in the United States based on a Form |
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TOTAL: $ |
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signed, then, until your obligations under Form |
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you must: |
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Part 8. Sponsor's Contract, Statement, Contact
Information, Declaration, Certification, and
Signature
NOTE: Read the Penalties section of the Form
Sponsor's Contract
Please note that, by signing this Form
What is the Legal Effect of My Signing Form
If you sign Form
Under this contract, you agree that, in deciding whether the intending immigrant can establish that he or she is not inadmissible to the United States as a person likely to become a public charge, the U.S. Government can consider your income and assets as available for the support of the intending immigrant.
A.Provide the intending immigrant any support necessary to maintain him or her at an income that is at least 125 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for his or her household size (100 percent if you are the petitioning sponsor and are on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces or U.S. Coast Guard, and the person is your husband, wife, or unmarried child under 21 years of age); and
B.Notify U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of any change in your address, within 30 days of the change, by filing Form
What Other Consequences Are There?
If an intending immigrant becomes a lawful permanent resident in the United States based on a Form
This provision does not apply to public benefits specified in section 403(c) of the Welfare Reform Act such as emergency Medicaid,
What If I Do Not Fulfill My Obligations?
If you do not provide sufficient support to the person who becomes a lawful permanent resident based on a Form
Form |
Page 6 of 10 |
Part 8. Sponsor's Contract, Statement, Contact
Information, Declaration, Certification, and
Signature (continued)
If a Federal, state, local, or private agency provided any covered
If you are sued, and the court enters a judgment against you, the person or agency that sued you may use any legally permitted procedures for enforcing or collecting the judgment. You may also be required to pay the costs of collection, including attorney fees.
If you do not file a properly completed Form
When Will These Obligations End?
Your obligations under a Form
A.Becomes a U.S. citizen;
B.Has worked, or can receive credit for, 40 quarters of coverage under the Social Security Act;
C.No longer has lawful permanent resident status and has departed the United States;
D.Is subject to removal, but applies for and obtains, in removal proceedings, a new grant of adjustment of status, based on a new affidavit of support, if one is required; or
E.Dies.
NOTE: Divorce does not terminate your obligations under Form
Your obligations under a 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 |
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and understand every question and instruction on this |
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affidavit and my answer to every question. |
1.b. |
The interpreter named in Part 9. 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 10., |
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prepared this affidavit for me based only upon |
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information I provided or authorized. |
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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 Declaration and Certification
Copies of any documents I have submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered, original documents, and I understand that USCIS or the U.S. Department of State (DOS) may require that I submit original documents to USCIS or DOS at a later date. Furthermore, I authorize the release of any information from any and all of my records that USCIS or DOS may need to determine my eligibility for the benefit that I seek.
I furthermore authorize release of information contained in this affidavit, in supporting documents, and in my USCIS or DOS records, to other entities and persons where necessary for the administration and enforcement of U.S. immigration law.
I certify, under penalty of perjury, that all of the information in my affidavit and any document submitted with it were provided or authorized by me, that I reviewed and understand all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my affidavit and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct.
A.I know the contents of this affidavit of support that I signed;
B.I have read and I understand each of the obligations described in Part 8., and I agree, freely and without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion, to accept each of those obligations in order to make it possible for the immigrants indicated in Part 3. to become lawful permanent residents of the United States;
C.I agree to submit to the personal jurisdiction of any Federal or state court that has subject matter jurisdiction of a lawsuit against me to enforce my obligations under this Form
Form |
Page 7 of 10 |
Part 8. Sponsor's Contract, Statement, Contact Information, Declaration, Certification, and
Signature (continued)
D. |
Each of the Federal income tax returns submitted in |
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support of this affidavit are true copies, or are |
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unaltered tax transcripts, of the tax returns I filed |
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with the IRS; |
Interpreter's Mailing Address
3.a. Street Number
and Name
3.b. 
Apt. 
Ste. 
Flr.
3.c. City or Town
E. |
I understand that, if I am related to the sponsored |
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immigrant by marriage, the termination of the |
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marriage (by divorce, dissolution, annulment, or |
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other legal process) will not relieve me of my |
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obligations under this Form |
F. |
I authorize the Social Security Administration to |
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release information about me in its records to |
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USCIS and DOS. |
3.d. State
3.f. Province
3.g. Postal Code
3.h. Country
3.e. ZIP Code
Sponsor's Signature
6.a. Sponsor's Signature
6.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)
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 DOS may deny your affidavit.
Part 9. 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 Contact Information
4.Interpreter's Daytime Telephone Number
5.Interpreter's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)
6.Interpreter's Email Address (if any)
Interpreter's Certification
I certify, under penalty of perjury, that:
I am fluent in English and |
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which is the same language specified in Part 8., 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 Declaration and 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)
Form |
Page 8 of 10 |
Part 10. Contact Information, 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)
Preparer's Mailing Address
3.a. Street Number
and Name
3.b. 
Apt. 
Ste. 
Flr.
3.c. City or Town
Preparer's Statement
7.a. |
I am not an attorney or accredited representative but |
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have prepared this affidavit on behalf of the sponsor |
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and with the sponsor's consent. |
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7.b. |
I am an attorney or accredited representative and my |
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representation of the sponsor in this case |
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extends |
does not extend beyond the |
preparation of this affidavit.
NOTE: If you are an attorney or accredited representative, 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
3.d. State
3.f. Province
3.g. Postal Code
3.h. Country
3.e. ZIP Code
Sponsor's Declaration and 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
Preparer's Contact Information
4.Preparer's Daytime Telephone Number
5.Preparer's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)
6.Preparer's Email Address (if any)
8.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)
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Part 11. 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
1.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
1.b. Given Name
(First Name)
1.c. Middle Name
2.
► A-
3.a. Page Number 3.b. Part Number 3.c. Item Number
3.d.
4.a. Page Number 4.b. Part Number 4.c. Item Number
4.d.
5.a. Page Number 5.b. Part Number 5.c. Item Number
5.d.
6.a. Page Number 6.b. Part Number 6.c. Item Number
6.d.
7.a. Page Number 7.b. Part Number 7.c. Item Number
7.d.
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Form Specs
| Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | The I-864 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is used to demonstrate that a sponsor can financially support an immigrant applying for a green card. |
| Eligibility Requirements | The sponsor must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, at least 18 years old, and must meet the income requirements set by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. |
| Income Threshold | The sponsor's income must be at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their household size. For active military members, the requirement is 100%. |
| Joint Sponsors | If the primary sponsor does not meet the income requirement, a joint sponsor can submit a separate I-864 form to help meet the financial criteria. |
| Duration of Obligation | The sponsor's financial obligation lasts until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, has worked 40 qualifying quarters, or passes away. |
| State-Specific Laws | While the I-864 is a federal form, state laws may affect how sponsorship obligations are enforced. It’s important to understand local regulations, especially regarding income and support. |
Crucial Questions on This Form
What is the USCIS I-864 form?
The USCIS I-864 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a legal document required by the U.S. government. It is used to demonstrate that a sponsor has sufficient financial resources to support an immigrant applying for a green card. The purpose of this form is to ensure that the immigrant will not become dependent on government assistance.
Who needs to file the I-864 form?
The I-864 form must be filed by a sponsor who is a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. This sponsor is typically a family member of the immigrant, such as a spouse, parent, or child. In some cases, a joint sponsor may also be needed if the primary sponsor does not meet the income requirements.
What are the income requirements for the I-864 form?
To successfully complete the I-864 form, the sponsor must demonstrate an income that is at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their household size. The guidelines are updated annually, and the specific income threshold may vary based on the number of people in the household. It is essential to check the current guidelines to ensure compliance.
What documents are needed to support the I-864 form?
When filing the I-864 form, the sponsor should include several supporting documents. These may include:
- Proof of income, such as tax returns, W-2 forms, or pay stubs.
- Evidence of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status, like a birth certificate or green card.
- Proof of current employment, if applicable.
Gathering these documents is crucial for a smooth application process.
Can a joint sponsor help if the primary sponsor does not meet the income requirements?
Yes, a joint sponsor can be utilized if the primary sponsor's income falls short of the required threshold. The joint sponsor must also complete a separate I-864 form and meet the income requirements independently. This allows the combined financial resources of both sponsors to support the immigrant.
What happens if the I-864 form is not properly completed?
If the I-864 form is not filled out correctly, it may lead to delays in the processing of the immigrant's application. In some cases, the application could be denied. It is important to review the form carefully and ensure that all required information is provided accurately. Consulting with a qualified professional can also help prevent mistakes.
How long is the I-864 form valid?
The I-864 form remains valid as long as the immigrant is a lawful permanent resident and until the sponsor's obligation ends. Generally, the sponsor's obligation lasts until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, can be credited with 40 quarters of work, or passes away. Understanding these responsibilities is essential for both the sponsor and the immigrant.
Documents used along the form
The USCIS I-864 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a critical document for individuals seeking to sponsor an immigrant. It demonstrates that the sponsor has adequate financial resources to support the immigrant. Along with the I-864, several other forms and documents may be required to complete the immigration process. Here is a list of commonly used documents that accompany the I-864.
- Form I-130: This is the Petition for Alien Relative. It establishes the relationship between the sponsor and the immigrant and is typically the first step in the immigration process.
- Form I-485: The Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status allows eligible individuals already in the U.S. to apply for a green card.
- Form I-864A: This is the Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member. It is used when a household member's income is considered to help meet the financial requirements.
- Form I-864EZ: A simplified version of the I-864, this form is for sponsors who meet specific criteria, making the process more straightforward.
- Form I-693: The Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record is required to show that the immigrant has undergone a medical examination and received necessary vaccinations.
- Form G-325A: The Biographic Information form collects personal information about the immigrant, including employment and residence history.
- Tax Returns: Copies of the sponsor's federal income tax returns for the past three years are needed to verify income and financial stability.
- Last Will and Testament Form: To ensure your final wishes are respected, consider using our comprehensive Last Will and Testament resources to guide you through the essential legalities of estate planning.
- Pay Stubs: Recent pay stubs or proof of income help to establish the sponsor's current financial situation and ability to support the immigrant.
Each of these documents plays a significant role in the immigration process, ensuring that all necessary information is provided for a thorough review. Proper preparation and submission of these forms can significantly impact the outcome of the immigration application.
Misconceptions
The USCIS I-864 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is an important document for individuals sponsoring a family member for a green card. However, several misconceptions exist regarding its purpose and requirements. Below is a list of common misunderstandings about the I-864 form.
- The I-864 is only for spouses. Many believe this form is exclusively for sponsoring a spouse. In reality, it is required for various family relationships, including children, parents, and siblings.
- Only U.S. citizens can file the I-864. This is incorrect. Both U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can act as sponsors when filing the I-864.
- The I-864 guarantees a green card. While the form is essential for the immigration process, it does not guarantee approval. Other eligibility criteria must also be met.
- Income requirements are the same for all sponsors. This is a misconception. Income requirements vary based on household size and the location of the sponsor.
- Assets cannot be counted toward the income requirement. This is not true. Sponsors can use their assets to meet the income requirement, provided they meet specific criteria.
- Once the I-864 is submitted, it cannot be changed. This is misleading. If circumstances change, sponsors may be able to update their information or submit a new form.
- The I-864 is a one-time obligation. Many think the obligation ends once the sponsored individual receives a green card. In fact, the sponsor remains financially responsible until certain conditions are met.
- Filing the I-864 is optional. This is incorrect. The I-864 is a mandatory requirement for most family-based immigration cases.
Understanding these misconceptions can help sponsors navigate the immigration process more effectively. It is essential to approach the I-864 form with accurate information to ensure compliance and support for the sponsored individual.