Affidavit of Support in U.S Immigration – Financial Proof

If you’re sponsoring a family member for a U.S. green card, you’ll need to file Form I-864, the Affidavit of Support. This legally binding form shows you can financially support your loved one and helps them avoid relying on public benefits.

Currently, processing takes around 8–9 months, though times vary depending on your case. As a sponsor, you must be a U.S. citizen or green card holder, at least 18 years old, and living in the U.S., with an income of at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or have sufficient assets to meet the requirement. Your responsibilities continue until certain conditions are met, such as your spouse becoming a U.S. citizen, working 40 quarters, or leaving the U.S. permanently.

Form I-864 Processing Time:

The processing time for Form I-864 is currently around 8.7 months, though this can vary depending on individual circumstances. Since Form I-864 is part of the family-based green card application, the timeline also reflects how long it may take for the green card to be approved.

To avoid delays:

• File all forms correctly the first time.
• Make sure all required documents are included.

Financial Requirements:

The financial sponsor must meet these requirements:

• Be a U.S. citizen or green card holder, at least 18 years old, and living in the U.S.
• Have an annual income of at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. This threshold increases with the number of people in the household.
• Use assets if income alone is insufficient. Assets may include cash, stocks, bonds, or property.
• Household or non-family members can assist to meet income or asset requirements if needed.
• The green card applicant may also contribute income, as long as it continues from the same source after approval.

The sponsor may need to complete Form I-864P to calculate the minimum income requirement.

Financial Obligations:

The Affidavit of Support is a legal contract with the U.S. government. If the sponsored family member uses certain public benefits (e.g., SSI, TANF), the government may seek repayment from the sponsor.

The sponsor’s obligations end only when one of these occurs:

• Death of either spouse.
• The green card holder becomes a U.S. citizen.
• The green card holder has worked 40 quarters in the U.S.
• The green card holder permanently leaves the U.S.

If you have sponsored others before, their applications may count toward your current obligations unless one of the above conditions has already ended your responsibilities.

Check Also: Time to obtain American Residency Through Marriage

Sponsoring Family Member Immigration

Sponsoring a family member for immigration allows U.S. citizens or permanent residents to bring relatives to live legally in the country. The process requires submitting forms, proving financial stability, and meeting eligibility criteria. Understanding the rules and requirements ensures a smooth and successful application.

Affidavit of Support for Green Card:

An Affidavit of Support for a green card is a legally binding document showing that the sponsor will financially support the immigrant. This form, typically the I-864, is required for family-based or certain employment-based green card applications. Proper completion ensures compliance with U.S. immigration laws and protects both the sponsor and the immigrant.

Affidavit of Support Guidelines:

Affidavit of Support guidelines outline the financial responsibilities sponsors must meet when supporting an immigrant. Sponsors must demonstrate sufficient income or assets to prevent the sponsored individual from relying on public assistance. Following these guidelines is essential for approval of the immigration petition.

Online Apply:

• If received through the National Visa Center (NVC), Form I-864 can be submitted online via the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC).
• If filing directly with USCIS (for example, with Form I-130 or Form I-129F), it must be sent to the USCIS Chicago lockbox.

Always double-check the filing instructions to ensure your forms are submitted correctly.

Conclusion:

Sponsoring a family member through Form I-864 is a legal and financial commitment that ensures your loved one can settle in the U.S. securely. Meeting income or asset requirements and understanding your obligations helps prevent delays and complications. Careful preparation and accurate filing make the process smoother and support a successful green card application.

Frequently Asked Questions: