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The USCIS I-864 form, commonly known as the Affidavit of Support, plays a crucial role in the immigration process for individuals seeking to become permanent residents in the United States. This form is primarily used by sponsors, typically U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, who wish to support a family member or a relative during their application for a green card. By completing the I-864, sponsors demonstrate their commitment to financially support the immigrant, ensuring that they will not become a public charge. The form requires detailed information about the sponsor's income, assets, and household size, as well as the immigrant’s personal details. It also outlines the legal obligations of the sponsor, including the duration of support, which lasts until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen or can be credited with 40 qualifying quarters of work. Understanding the I-864 is essential for both sponsors and applicants, as it not only impacts the approval of the immigration application but also establishes important financial responsibilities that must be upheld throughout the sponsorship period.

Document Specifics

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.
Eligibility U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can act as sponsors on the I-864 form.
Income Requirement The sponsor must have an income that is at least 125% of the federal poverty guidelines for their household size.
Joint Sponsors If the primary sponsor does not meet the income requirement, a joint sponsor can also submit an I-864 to help meet the financial threshold.
Binding Contract Signing the I-864 creates a legally binding contract between the sponsor and the U.S. government, ensuring support for the immigrant.
Duration of Support The support obligation lasts until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, can be credited with 40 quarters of work, or passes away.
State-Specific Laws While the I-864 is a federal form, state laws regarding contracts may influence how it is enforced.
Filing Location The completed I-864 form must be submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) along with the immigrant's visa application.

How to Write USCIS I-864

After gathering the necessary information, you can begin filling out the USCIS I-864 form. This form is important for demonstrating financial support for a family member applying for a visa or green card. Follow these steps to complete the form accurately.

  1. Download the USCIS I-864 form from the USCIS website or obtain a physical copy.
  2. Read the instructions carefully before starting to fill out the form.
  3. Begin with Part 1. Provide your full name, mailing address, and other personal details as requested.
  4. In Part 2, indicate your relationship to the person you are sponsoring.
  5. Complete Part 3 by providing information about your household size. Include everyone who will be counted for the purpose of this form.
  6. Move to Part 4. Here, you will need to provide your income details, including your annual income and the sources of that income.
  7. In Part 5, if applicable, list any assets you have. Provide details such as the type of asset and its value.
  8. Complete Part 6 by answering questions about any other sponsors, if there are any.
  9. In Part 7, sign and date the form. Ensure that you are the person completing the form.
  10. Review the entire form for accuracy and completeness before submitting it.

Once you have completed the form, you will need to submit it along with any required supporting documents to USCIS. Make sure to keep copies of everything for your records.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the USCIS I-864 form, it's essential to be thorough and accurate. This form is used to demonstrate that a sponsor can financially support an immigrant. Here are ten important dos and don'ts to keep in mind.

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank; incomplete forms can lead to delays.
  • Do provide accurate financial information, including your income and assets.
  • Don't exaggerate your financial situation; honesty is crucial.
  • Do include supporting documents, such as tax returns and pay stubs, as evidence of your financial capacity.
  • Don't forget to sign and date the form; an unsigned form will be rejected.
  • Do use black ink and write clearly to ensure legibility.
  • Don't submit the form without making a copy for your records.
  • Do check for any updates or changes to the form or instructions on the USCIS website.
  • Don't hesitate to seek assistance if you have questions; legal advice can be beneficial.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your I-864 form is completed correctly, reducing the risk of complications in the immigration process.

Documents used along the form

The USCIS I-864 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a critical document used by individuals seeking to sponsor a family member for a green card in the United States. Alongside this form, several other documents are typically required to ensure a complete application. Each of these forms serves a specific purpose in the immigration process, helping to demonstrate the sponsor's financial capability and the relationship to the applicant.

  • USCIS I-130 Form: This form, known as the Petition for Alien Relative, establishes the relationship between the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and the family member seeking a green card. It is usually the first step in the family-based immigration process.
  • USCIS I-485 Form: The Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status allows individuals already in the U.S. to apply for a green card. This form is essential for those who are adjusting their status from non-immigrant to immigrant.
  • USCIS I-864A Form: This is the Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member. It is used when a household member contributes to the sponsor's income, providing additional financial support for the applicant.
  • Articles of Incorporation: This form is vital for establishing a corporation in California and includes key details like the corporation’s name and purpose. For assistance in filling out the required forms, you can Fill PDF Forms.
  • USCIS I-864EZ Form: A simplified version of the I-864, this form is for sponsors who meet specific criteria, such as having a single sponsor and a straightforward financial situation.
  • USCIS I-693 Form: The Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record is required to demonstrate that the applicant meets health-related standards. A civil surgeon must complete this form after a medical examination.
  • USCIS I-864P Form: This is the Poverty Guidelines form, which provides the income thresholds necessary for sponsorship. It helps determine if the sponsor meets the financial requirements to support the applicant.

Submitting these documents alongside the USCIS I-864 form is crucial for a successful application. Each form plays a significant role in verifying the sponsor's ability to support their family member financially and ensuring compliance with immigration regulations. By gathering these documents carefully, applicants can navigate the process with greater confidence.