Homepage Blank USCIS I-134 Form
Outline

The USCIS I-134 form plays a pivotal role in the immigration process, particularly for individuals seeking to enter the United States on a temporary basis. This form, known as the Affidavit of Support, serves as a declaration of financial support for a non-citizen, ensuring that they will not become a public charge while residing in the country. By submitting the I-134, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident demonstrates their willingness and ability to provide financial assistance to the applicant, which can significantly bolster the applicant's chances of obtaining a visa. Key components of the I-134 include personal information about both the sponsor and the beneficiary, details regarding the sponsor's income and assets, and a commitment to support the applicant during their stay. Furthermore, the form requires the sponsor to provide evidence of their financial stability, reinforcing the importance of this document in the broader context of U.S. immigration policy. Understanding the nuances of the I-134 is essential for both sponsors and applicants, as it can greatly influence the outcome of their immigration journey.

Sample - USCIS I-134 Form

 

Declaration of Financial Support

USCIS

 

Department of Homeland Security

Form I-134

 

OMB No. 1615-0014

 

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Expires 12/31/2027

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

START HERE - Type or print in black ink.

Part 1. Basis for Filing

1.I am filing this form on behalf of:

Myself as the beneficiary. (Complete Parts 2., 4., and 7 - 8. Skip Parts 3., 5., and 6.)

Another individual who is the beneficiary. (Complete Parts 2. - 3. and Parts 5. - 8. Skip Part 4.)

Part 2. Information About the Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary

All filers must complete Part 2.

1.Current Legal Name (Do not provide a nickname.)

Family Name (Last Name)

Given Name (First Name)

Middle Name (if applicable)

 

 

 

 

 

2.Other Names Used

Provide 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 8. Additional Information.

Family Name (Last Name)

Given Name (First Name)

Middle Name (if applicable)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

Current Mailing Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In Care Of Name (if any)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Street Number and Name

 

 

 

 

 

Apt.Ste. Flr.

Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City or Town

 

 

 

 

 

State

ZIP Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Province

 

Postal Code

 

Country

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.Is your current mailing address the same as your current physical address?

If you answered "No" to Item Number 4., provide your current physical address in Item Number 5.

Yes No

Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25

Page 1 of 10

Part 2. Information About the Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary (continued)

5.Current Physical Address In Care Of Name (if any)

Street Number and Name

 

 

 

 

 

Apt.Ste. Flr.

Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City or Town

 

 

 

 

 

State

ZIP Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Province

 

Postal Code

 

Country

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

7.Place of Birth

 

City or Town

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

State or Province

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Country

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.

Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any)

9.

USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

 

A-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10. What is your current immigration status?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

U.S. Citizen

U.S. National

Lawful Permanent Resident

Nonimmigrant

Asylee

 

Refugee

Parolee

TPS holder

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beneficiary of deferred action (including DACA) or Deferred Enforced Departure

Other (Explain)

11.What is your relationship to the beneficiary?

12.Employment Status

Employed (full-time, part-time, seasonal ) as a/an

Name of Employer

Self-Employed as a/an

Unemployed or Not Employed

Retired

 

 

 

Other (Explain):

 

 

 

 

 

Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25

Page 2 of 10

Part 2. Information About the Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary (continued)

Financial Information

Provide information about your dependents, income, and assets. If you need additional space to complete any Item Number in this section, use the space provided in Part 8. Additional Information

13.How many other Form I-134, Form I-134A, Form I-864, Form I-864EZ, and Form I-864A have you previously submitted on behalf of a person (including yourself, if applicable) and your support obligation has not ended? Do not include the beneficiary named in Part 3.

14.How many other dependents do you support (including yourself)? Do not include individuals in Item Number 13. and the beneficiary named in Part 3.

15.Provide the information requested in the table below about all of your dependents and any other individuals you financially support. Do not include yourself and the beneficiary named in Part 3.

Full Name

Date of Birth

(mm/dd/yyyy)

Relationship to you A-Number (if any)

Receipt Number (if any)

16. What is your current annual income?

$

17.Provide information on the cash or assets available to you (do not include any assets from the individual named in Part 3.). Attach evidence showing you have these assets.

Type of Asset

Amount (Cash Value)

 

(U.S. dollars)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL (U.S. dollars) $

Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25

Page 3 of 10

Part 2. Information About the Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary (continued)

Intent to Provide Specific Contributions to the Beneficiary

If you are filing this form on behalf of another individual who is the beneficiary, complete Item Numbers 18 - 19. If you are the beneficiary, proceed to Part 4.

18. In addition to providing financial support, I intend to make specific contributions to cover the

Yes

No

beneficiary's basic living needs.

 

 

19.Describe the specific contributions you will provide to cover the beneficiary's basic living needs. This could include providing safe and appropriate housing; securing employment opportunities, once authorized to work; enrolling in school; and enrolling in any benefits for which he or she is eligible. If you intend to furnish room and board, provide the address where the beneficiary will reside. If you need additional space, use Part 8. Additional Information.

Part 3. Information about the Beneficiary

Complete Part 3. if you are filing this form on behalf of another individual who is the beneficiary. If you are the beneficiary providing financial support for yourself, you do not need to complete Part 3. Proceed to Part 4.

1.Beneficiary's Current Legal Name (Do not provide a nickname.)

Family Name (Last Name)

 

Given Name (First Name)

Middle Name (if applicable)

 

 

 

 

 

2.Other Names Used

Provide all other names the beneficiary has ever used, including aliases, maiden name, and nicknames. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 8. Additional Information.

Family Name (Last Name)

Given Name (First Name)

Middle Name (if applicable)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

4.

Sex

Male Female

5.Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any)

A-

6.Place of Birth

City or Town

State or Province

 

 

 

Country

7.Country of Citizenship or Nationality

Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25

Page 4 of 10

Part 3. Information about the Beneficiary (continued)

8.

Marital Status

 

 

 

 

 

 

Single, Never Married

Married

Divorced

Widowed

Legally Separated

Marriage Annulled

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other (Explain):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.Beneficiary's Current Mailing Address In Care Of Name (if any)

Street Number and Name

 

 

 

 

 

Apt.Ste. Flr.

Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City or Town

 

 

 

 

 

State

ZIP Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Province

 

Postal Code

 

Country

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10.Are the beneficiary's mailing address and physical address the same?

If you answered “No” to Item Number 10., provide the physical address in Item Number 11.

11.Beneficiary's Current Physical Address In Care Of Name (if any)

Yes No

Street Number and Name

City or Town

Apt.Ste. Flr.

 

Number

 

 

 

State

 

ZIP Code

 

 

 

Province

Postal Code

 

Country

 

 

 

 

 

Beneficiary's Anticipated Length of Stay

12.Beneficiary's Anticipated Period of Stay in the United States

From (mm/dd/yyyy)

To (select one):

(mm/dd/yyyy)

No End Date

Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25

Page 5 of 10

Part 4. Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature of the Beneficiary (if filing Form I-134 on his or her own behalf)

If you are the beneficiary and are filing Form I-134 on your own behalf, complete and sign Part 4. NOTE: Read the Penalties section of the Form I-134 Instructions before completing this section.

Beneficiary's Statement

NOTE: Select the box for either Item A. or B. in Item Number 1. If applicable, select the box for Item Number 2.

1.I, as the beneficiary, certify the following:

A.

I can read and understand English, and I have read and understand every question and instruction on this declaration and my answer to every question.

B.

2.

The interpreter named in Part 6. read to me every question and instruction on this declaration and my answer to every

question in

 

 

, a language in which I am fluent and I understood

everything.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At my request, the preparer named in Part 7.,

 

, prepared

this declaration for me based only upon information I provided or authorized.

Beneficiary's Contact Information

3.

Beneficiary's Daytime Telephone Number

4.

Beneficiary's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

 

 

 

 

5.Beneficiary's Email Address (if any)

Beneficiary'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 and all 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 declaration, 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 declaration;

2)I understood all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my declaration; 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 declaration, I understand all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my declaration, and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct.

That this declaration is made by me to assure the U.S. Government that I will be able to financially support myself while in the United States.

That I am willing and able to pay for necessary expenses for the duration of my temporary stay in the United States.

Beneficiary's Signature

6.

Beneficiary's Signature

 

Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25

 

Page 6 of 10

Part 5. Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature of the Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary

If you are filing Form I-134 on behalf of someone else (the beneficiary listed in Part 3.), complete and sign Part 5.

NOTE: Read the Penalties section of the Form I-134 Instructions before completing this section.

Statement of Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary

NOTE: Select the box for either Item A. or B. in Item Number 1. If applicable, select the box for Item Number 2.

1.I, as the individual agreeing to financially support the beneficiary, certify the following:

A.

B.

I can read and understand English, and I have read and understand every question and instruction on this declaration and my answer to every question.

The interpreter named in Part 6. read to me every question and instruction on this declaration and my answer to every

question in

 

, a language in which I am fluent and I understood

 

 

 

2.

At my request, the preparer named in Part 7.,

declaration for me based only upon information I provided or authorized.

, prepared this

Contact Information of Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary

3.

Daytime Telephone Number

4.

Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

 

 

 

 

5.Email Address (if any)

Certification of Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary

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 and all 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 declaration, 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 law.

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 declaration;

2)I understood all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my declaration; 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 declaration, I understand all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my declaration, and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct.

That this declaration is made by me to assure the U.S. Government that the person named in Part 3. will be financially supported while in the United States.

That I am willing and able to receive, maintain, and support the person named in Part 3. to better ensure that such persons will have sufficient financial resources or financial support to pay for necessary expenses for the period of his or her temporary stay in the United States.

I acknowledge that I have read this section, and I am aware of my responsibilities as an individual agreeing to financially support the beneficiary.

Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25

Page 7 of 10

Part 5. Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature of the Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary (continued)

Signature of Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary

6.

Signature

 

Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

 

NOTE TO ALL INDIVIDUALS AGREEING TO FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE BENEFICIARY: If you do not completely fill out this declaration or if you fail to submit required documents listed in the Instructions, USCIS or the Department of State may deny or not consider your declaration.

Part 6. Interpreter's Contact Information, Certification, and Signature

Interpreter's Full Name

1. Interpreter's Family Name (Last Name)

Interpreter's Given Name (First Name)

 

 

 

 

2.Interpreter's Business or Organization Name

Interpreter's Contact Information

3.

Interpreter's Daytime Telephone Number

4.

Interpreter's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

 

 

 

 

5.Interpreter's Email Address (if any)

Interpreter's Certification

I certify, under penalty of perjury, that:

 

I am fluent in English and

, and I have interpreted every question on the

declaration and Instructions and interpreted the individual agreeing to financially support the beneficiary's answers to the questions in that language, and the individual agreeing to financially support the beneficiary informed me that he or she understood every instruction, question, and answer on the declaration.

6.

Interpreter's Signature

 

Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

 

Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25

Page 8 of 10

Part 7. Contact Information, Certification, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Declaration, if Other Than the Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary

Preparer's Full Name

1. Preparer's Family Name (Last Name)

Preparer's Given Name (First Name)

 

 

 

 

2.Preparer's Business or Organization Name

Preparer's Contact Information

3.

Preparer's Daytime Telephone Number

4.

Preparer's Mobile Telephone Number

 

 

 

 

5.Preparer's Email Address (if any)

Preparer's Certification and Signature

I certify, under penalty of perjury, that I prepared this declaration for the individual agreeing to financially support the beneficiary at his or her request and with express consent and that all of the responses and information contained in and submitted with the declaration are complete, true, and correct and reflects only information provided by the individual agreeing to financially support the beneficiary. The individual agreeing to financially support the beneficiary reviewed the responses and information and informed me that he or she understands the responses and information in or submitted with the declaration.

6.

Preparer's Signature

 

Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

 

Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25

Page 9 of 10

Part 8. Additional Information

If you need extra space to provide any additional information within this declaration, 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 declaration or attach a separate sheet of paper. Type or print your name and A-Number (if any) at the top of each sheet; indicate the Page Number, Part Number, and Item Number to which your answer refers; and sign and date each sheet.

1. Family Name (Last Name)

Given Name (First Name)

 

Middle Name (if applicable)

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. A-Number (if any) ►A-

3.

Page Number

 

Part Number Item Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.

Page Number

 

Part Number Item Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.

Page Number

 

Part Number Item Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.

Page Number

 

Part Number Item Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25

Page 10 of 10

Form Information

Fact Name Description
Purpose The I-134 form is used to demonstrate that a visa applicant has adequate financial support while in the United States.
Eligibility U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can file the I-134 form on behalf of a visa applicant.
Supporting Documents Applicants must provide evidence of income, assets, and any other financial resources to support the visa application.
Submission Process The I-134 form is submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) along with the visa application.
Governing Law The I-134 form is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), specifically under Section 213A.

Detailed Guide for Filling Out USCIS I-134

After completing the USCIS I-134 form, you will need to gather additional documents to support your application. This may include proof of income, bank statements, and any other relevant financial information. Once everything is ready, you can submit the form along with the required documentation to USCIS.

  1. Start by downloading the USCIS I-134 form from the official USCIS website.
  2. Read the instructions carefully before filling out the form to understand what information is required.
  3. Begin with your personal information in Part 1, including your name, address, and contact details.
  4. In Part 2, provide information about the beneficiary, such as their name and relationship to you.
  5. Fill out Part 3 with details about your employment and income. Include your employer's name, address, and your job title.
  6. In Part 4, report your assets. This may include bank accounts, property, and other financial resources.
  7. Complete Part 5 by disclosing any other sources of income or support you may have.
  8. Sign and date the form at the end, confirming that all information provided is true and accurate.
  9. Review the entire form for any errors or omissions before submission.
  10. Gather any supporting documents that demonstrate your financial ability to support the beneficiary.
  11. Submit the completed form and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS address.

Obtain Answers on USCIS I-134

  1. What is the USCIS I-134 form?

    The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a document used by individuals in the United States to demonstrate that they can financially support a foreign national applying for a visa. This form is often required for non-immigrant visa applicants to show that they will not become a public charge.

  2. Who needs to fill out the I-134 form?

    The I-134 form must be filled out by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who is willing to act as a financial sponsor for a foreign national. This is typically required for individuals applying for tourist or student visas, as well as certain other non-immigrant visa categories.

  3. What information is required on the I-134 form?

    The form requires various pieces of information, including:

    • Your personal details, such as name, address, and date of birth.
    • Details about your income and employment.
    • Information about your assets, including bank statements and property ownership.
    • Details about the person you are sponsoring, including their name and relationship to you.
  4. How does the I-134 form affect the visa application process?

    The I-134 form plays a crucial role in the visa application process. It provides evidence to the consular officer that the applicant has sufficient financial support during their stay in the U.S. A properly completed form can increase the chances of a visa being granted.

  5. Is there a fee associated with filing the I-134 form?

    There is no fee for submitting the I-134 form itself. However, applicants may incur other costs related to the visa application process, such as application fees, medical examinations, and travel expenses.

  6. How long is the I-134 form valid?

    The I-134 form does not have an official expiration date. However, it should be submitted close to the time of the visa application. If there are significant changes in the sponsor's financial situation, a new form may be necessary.

  7. Can I sponsor multiple individuals with one I-134 form?

    No, each foreign national requiring sponsorship must have a separate I-134 form. Each form should be tailored to the specific individual being sponsored, ensuring that their unique circumstances are addressed.

  8. What happens if the I-134 form is denied?

    If the I-134 form is denied, the foreign national's visa application may be negatively affected. It is essential to ensure that all information provided is accurate and complete. If a denial occurs, the sponsor can address any issues and resubmit the form if necessary.

  9. Where do I submit the I-134 form?

    The I-134 form should be submitted to the U.S. consulate or embassy where the foreign national is applying for their visa. It is often advisable to include the form with the visa application package to ensure it is considered during the review process.

Common mistakes

Completing the USCIS I-134 form can be a critical step for individuals seeking to sponsor a visa applicant. However, there are common mistakes that can hinder the process. Understanding these errors can help ensure a smoother application experience.

One frequent mistake is providing inaccurate personal information. It is essential to double-check names, addresses, and dates of birth. Even minor discrepancies can lead to delays or denials. Ensuring accuracy helps maintain the integrity of the application.

Another common error involves failing to include all required documentation. The I-134 form requires specific financial evidence, such as tax returns and pay stubs. Omitting these documents can result in the application being considered incomplete, which may lead to rejection.

Many applicants also overlook the importance of signing the form. A missing signature can invalidate the application. It is crucial to review the form thoroughly before submission to ensure all necessary signatures are included.

Some individuals make the mistake of not providing sufficient financial support evidence. The form requires proof of the sponsor's ability to support the visa applicant. Providing clear and comprehensive financial documentation is vital to demonstrate that the sponsor can meet the applicant's needs.

Another issue arises when sponsors fail to update their information. Changes in employment status or financial circumstances should be communicated promptly. Keeping the information current helps avoid complications during the processing of the application.

In addition, applicants sometimes neglect to read the instructions carefully. Each section of the I-134 form has specific requirements. Understanding these instructions is crucial for completing the form accurately and fully.

Lastly, some individuals submit the form without making copies of the completed application. Retaining a copy is important for future reference and can be helpful if any questions arise during the processing. This simple step can save time and stress down the line.

Documents used along the form

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is an important document used by individuals who are sponsoring a foreign national for a visa. To support the application process, several other forms and documents may be required. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that are often submitted alongside the I-134.

  • Form I-130: This is the Petition for Alien Relative. It establishes a relationship between the U.S. citizen or permanent resident and the foreign national they wish to sponsor.
  • Form I-864: Known as the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act, this form is typically used for family-based immigration and demonstrates the sponsor's financial ability to support the immigrant.
  • Form I-797: This is the Notice of Action. It serves as proof that the USCIS has received a petition or application and may indicate approval or denial of a request.
  • Form I-551: Also known as the Permanent Resident Card or Green Card, this document is proof of an individual's lawful permanent resident status in the United States.
  • Tax Returns: Recent tax returns are often required to demonstrate the sponsor’s financial stability and ability to support the foreign national.
  • Employment Verification Letter: This letter from the sponsor's employer confirms their job position, salary, and employment status, adding credibility to their financial claims.
  • Bank Statements: Recent bank statements provide insight into the sponsor's financial resources and help to show that they can support the foreign national.
  • Proof of Citizenship or Residency: This may include a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate, proving the sponsor's status as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
  • Form I-94: This document is the Arrival/Departure Record, which shows the foreign national's immigration status and history of entries into the U.S.

Gathering these documents can seem daunting, but each one plays a crucial role in the immigration process. Ensuring that all required forms and supporting documents are accurately completed and submitted can significantly impact the outcome of the visa application. Careful attention to detail will facilitate a smoother process for both the sponsor and the foreign national seeking to enter the United States.

Similar forms

  • Form I-130: This form is used to establish a relationship between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and a foreign relative. Like the I-134, it is a part of the immigration process.
  • Form I-864: This is an Affidavit of Support that shows a sponsor's ability to financially support a family member seeking a green card. Both forms serve as financial assurances to the U.S. government.
  • Form I-601: This waiver is for individuals who need to overcome grounds of inadmissibility. Similar to the I-134, it requires evidence of financial support.
  • Form I-751: This petition to remove conditions on residence is for individuals who obtained their green card through marriage. It often includes financial documentation similar to the I-134.
  • Form I-765: This application for work authorization may require proof of financial support, akin to what is needed in the I-134.
  • Form N-400: The application for naturalization requires evidence of financial stability, which is a consideration also reflected in the I-134.
  • Form I-485: This application to adjust status includes financial support documentation. It shares the goal of ensuring the applicant can be supported financially.
  • Form I-907: This request for premium processing may involve financial considerations, similar to the assurances made in the I-134.
  • Form DS-260: The immigrant visa application requires proof of financial support, paralleling the requirements of the I-134.
  • Form I-129F: This petition for a fiancé(e) visa also necessitates proof of financial capability, akin to the assurances provided in the I-134.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the USCIS I-134 form, it's important to follow certain guidelines to ensure your application is processed smoothly. Here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
  • Do provide accurate and truthful information.
  • Do use black ink and write clearly.
  • Do sign and date the form where required.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing it for errors.
  • Don't forget to include supporting documents if needed.
  • Don't use abbreviations or slang in your answers.

Misconceptions

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is often misunderstood. Here are five common misconceptions about this important document:

  1. It guarantees a visa approval.

    Many people believe that submitting the I-134 form will automatically lead to the approval of a visa application. In reality, while the form demonstrates financial support, it does not guarantee that the visa will be granted. Visa decisions are based on various factors, including eligibility and compliance with immigration laws.

  2. Only U.S. citizens can file the I-134.

    Another misconception is that only U.S. citizens are eligible to submit the I-134 form. However, lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can also file this form to support a visa applicant. This expands the pool of potential sponsors.

  3. It requires a specific income level.

    Some believe that there is a strict income threshold that must be met to file the I-134. While sponsors should demonstrate sufficient income to support the applicant, there is no set minimum. USCIS looks at the overall financial situation of the sponsor, including assets and other factors.

  4. It is a legally binding contract.

    Many think that signing the I-134 creates a legally binding contract between the sponsor and the government. In truth, while it is a formal declaration of support, it does not impose legal obligations in the same way as other contracts. It is more of a promise to provide financial assistance if needed.

  5. It is only needed for family-based immigration.

    Some individuals assume that the I-134 is only necessary for family-based immigration cases. However, this form can also be required for non-family-based visa applications, such as certain humanitarian or employment-related visas. Understanding when the form is needed is crucial for applicants.

Key takeaways

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is essential for individuals seeking to sponsor a visa applicant. Here are key takeaways regarding its completion and use:

  • The form must be completed accurately and truthfully to avoid delays in the application process.
  • It is crucial to provide all required documentation, including proof of income and financial stability.
  • The sponsor must demonstrate an ability to support the visa applicant financially, ensuring they will not become a public charge.
  • All sections of the form should be filled out; incomplete forms may be rejected or cause processing delays.
  • Once submitted, the form may be used in various immigration processes, including family reunification and refugee applications.
  • Keep copies of the completed form and all supporting documents for your records and future reference.