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The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, plays a crucial role in the immigration process for individuals seeking to enter the United States. This form is primarily used to demonstrate that a visa applicant has adequate financial support and will not become a public charge while residing in the country. By completing the I-134, sponsors can affirm their willingness to provide financial assistance to the applicant, thereby ensuring that the individual has the necessary means to support themselves during their stay. The form requires detailed information about the sponsor’s income, assets, and household size, allowing immigration officials to assess the sponsor's ability to support the applicant adequately. Additionally, the I-134 must be accompanied by supporting documentation, such as tax returns and pay stubs, to validate the sponsor's financial claims. Understanding the requirements and implications of the I-134 form is essential for both sponsors and applicants, as it can significantly impact the success of the visa application process.

USCIS I-134 Example

 

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

File Breakdown

Fact Name Description
Purpose The I-134 form is used to demonstrate that an individual has sufficient financial support to avoid becoming a public charge in the U.S.
Who Uses It Typically, sponsors use the I-134 form to support a visa applicant, such as a family member or friend, during their immigration process.
Filing Location The form can be submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or presented during a visa interview at a U.S. consulate.
Supporting Documents Applicants must provide evidence of income, such as pay stubs or tax returns, along with the I-134 form to strengthen their case.
Validity Period The I-134 form does not have an official expiration date, but it should reflect the current financial situation of the sponsor.
Governing Law The I-134 is governed by federal immigration law, specifically under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
Common Mistakes Many sponsors forget to sign the form or fail to provide complete financial documentation, which can lead to delays in the application process.

Guide to Using USCIS I-134

After obtaining the USCIS I-134 form, you will need to provide specific information about your financial situation and your relationship to the individual you are sponsoring. Completing this form accurately is essential for the processing of the immigration application.

  1. Begin by downloading the USCIS I-134 form from the official USCIS website.
  2. Open the form and read the instructions carefully to understand the requirements.
  3. Fill out your personal information in the designated fields, including your name, address, and contact information.
  4. Provide information about your immigration status, including your citizenship or lawful permanent residency details.
  5. Complete the section regarding your employment. Include your job title, employer's name, and annual income.
  6. List your assets, such as bank accounts, properties, and any other financial resources that demonstrate your ability to support the individual you are sponsoring.
  7. Indicate your household size, which includes yourself and any dependents.
  8. Sign and date the form at the bottom to certify that the information provided is accurate and complete.
  9. Review the completed form for any errors or omissions before submission.
  10. Submit the form as instructed, either online or by mailing it to the appropriate USCIS office.

Get 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 that individuals use to demonstrate their ability to financially support a visa applicant. It is often required for those seeking to enter the United States on a nonimmigrant visa, such as a tourist or student visa.

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

    The I-134 form must be completed by a person who is willing to act as a sponsor for the visa applicant. This sponsor can be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. The sponsor must show that they have enough income or assets to support the applicant during their stay in the U.S.

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

    The form asks for various details, including:

    • The sponsor's personal information (name, address, date of birth)
    • Details about the visa applicant
    • Financial information, such as income, employment, and assets
    • Information about any dependents the sponsor may have
  4. Is there a fee to file the I-134 form?

    There is no fee to submit the I-134 form. However, the visa applicant may need to pay other fees associated with their visa application process.

  5. How does the I-134 form affect the visa application?

    The I-134 form provides evidence that the visa applicant will not become a public charge while in the United States. It helps assure immigration officials that the applicant has financial support during their stay, which can positively impact the outcome of the visa application.

  6. Can the I-134 form be used for all types of visas?

    No, the I-134 form is primarily used for nonimmigrant visas. For immigrant visas, a different form, the I-864 Affidavit of Support, is typically required.

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

    The I-134 form does not have a specific expiration date. However, it should be submitted with the visa application while the sponsor's financial situation remains stable and adequate to support the applicant.

  8. What happens if the sponsor's financial situation changes?

    If the sponsor's financial situation changes significantly, they should inform the visa applicant and consider submitting a new I-134 form if necessary. The applicant's ability to support themselves may be reassessed during the visa application process.

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

    The completed I-134 form should be submitted along with the visa application to the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate. It is essential to follow the specific instructions provided by the embassy or consulate regarding submission.

  10. Can I submit the I-134 form electronically?

    Currently, the I-134 form must be submitted in paper format. Ensure that you print and sign the form before sending it to the appropriate location. Always check for any updates regarding electronic submissions on the USCIS website.

Common mistakes

Completing the USCIS I-134 form can be a daunting task, and many individuals make common mistakes that can lead to delays or even denials of their applications. One frequent error is leaving out important personal information. It’s essential to provide all requested details, including full names, addresses, and dates of birth. Omitting any of this information can raise red flags and complicate the process.

Another common mistake is failing to sign the form. It might seem trivial, but an unsigned form is considered incomplete. This oversight can result in processing delays, as USCIS will return the application for correction. Always double-check that you have signed and dated the form before submission.

Inaccurate financial information is also a significant pitfall. The I-134 form requires applicants to provide evidence of their financial support. Many people miscalculate their income or fail to include all sources of income. Providing an accurate and comprehensive picture of one’s financial situation is crucial for demonstrating the ability to support the beneficiary.

Some applicants neglect to include supporting documentation. The I-134 form asks for proof of income, such as tax returns or pay stubs. Failing to attach these documents can lead to requests for additional information, prolonging the process. Always ensure that you include all necessary documentation to support your claims.

Another mistake is not updating information when circumstances change. If your financial situation or personal information changes after submitting the form, it’s important to inform USCIS. Ignoring these updates can create discrepancies that may jeopardize the application.

Many individuals also overlook the importance of clarity and legibility. If the form is difficult to read due to messy handwriting or unclear print, it could lead to misunderstandings. Taking the time to fill out the form neatly can make a significant difference in how your application is processed.

Additionally, applicants sometimes fail to follow the specific instructions provided for the form. Each section of the I-134 has its own requirements. Not adhering to these guidelines can result in incomplete applications. Always read the instructions carefully before filling out the form.

Some people mistakenly believe that the I-134 form is optional. However, it is often a critical component of the immigration process for those seeking sponsorship. Understanding its importance can help ensure that you do not overlook this essential step.

Finally, many individuals underestimate the value of seeking assistance. Filling out immigration forms can be complex, and seeking help from a qualified professional can prevent many of these mistakes. Whether it’s a lawyer or a trusted friend who has experience with the process, getting a second pair of eyes on your application can be invaluable.

Documents used along the form

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is often accompanied by several other documents to provide a complete picture of the sponsor's financial situation and commitment. Here’s a list of common forms and documents that may be required alongside the I-134:

  • Form I-130: This is the Petition for Alien Relative. It establishes the relationship between the sponsor and the applicant, showing that the applicant is eligible for a visa based on their relationship to the sponsor.
  • Form I-864: The Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act. This is a more formal version of the I-134 and is typically used for immigrant visa applications, demonstrating that the sponsor can financially support the applicant.
  • Tax Returns: Copies of the sponsor's federal tax returns for the past three years are often required. These documents help verify the sponsor's income and financial stability.
  • Pay Stubs: Recent pay stubs from the sponsor's employer can provide proof of current income. This helps to show that the sponsor is actively employed and earning a steady income.
  • Bank Statements: Recent bank statements can demonstrate the sponsor's financial resources. These statements provide insight into the sponsor's savings and overall financial health.
  • Employment Verification Letter: A letter from the sponsor's employer confirming their position and salary may be requested. This letter serves as additional proof of the sponsor's employment status and income.
  • Proof of Citizenship or Residency: Documents such as a birth certificate, passport, or green card that prove the sponsor's legal status in the U.S. are essential for establishing eligibility to sponsor the applicant.

Gathering these documents can help streamline the process and improve the chances of a successful application. Being well-prepared is key to navigating the complexities of immigration forms and requirements.

Similar forms

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a document used to demonstrate that an individual has the financial means to support a visa applicant. Several other documents serve similar purposes in various contexts. Here is a list of ten documents that share similarities with the I-134 form:

  • I-864 Affidavit of Support: This form is also used to demonstrate financial support but is typically required for family-based immigration cases, establishing a stronger obligation to support the immigrant.
  • I-130 Petition for Alien Relative: While primarily a petition to establish a family relationship, it often includes financial information to show the petitioner’s ability to support the relative.
  • I-751 Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence: This document may require financial evidence to prove that the marriage was genuine and that the couple can support themselves.
  • I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker: Similar to the I-134, this petition requires evidence of the employer's ability to pay the offered wage, which indirectly supports the immigrant.
  • DS-260 Immigrant Visa Application: This application requires financial information to assess whether the applicant will be a public charge in the United States.
  • Form N-400 Application for Naturalization: Applicants must demonstrate financial stability, especially if they have received public benefits, which can relate back to the support obligations.
  • Form I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification: Employers must verify an employee’s eligibility to work in the U.S., which includes assessing financial self-sufficiency.
  • Form I-131 Application for Travel Document: This form may require financial documentation to ensure that the applicant can support themselves while outside the U.S.
  • Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: Financial information is often needed to assess the applicant’s ability to support themselves post-adjustment.
  • Form DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application: This form includes questions about the applicant's financial situation to determine their ability to support themselves during their stay in the U.S.

Each of these documents addresses financial responsibility in some capacity, reflecting the importance of financial stability in immigration processes.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the USCIS I-134 form, it’s essential to approach the process with care and attention to detail. Here are four important do's and don'ts to keep in mind:

  • Do provide accurate information. Ensure that all details, such as your name, address, and financial information, are correct. Any discrepancies can lead to delays or denials.
  • Do sign and date the form. Your signature is crucial, as it certifies that the information you provided is true and complete. A missing signature can result in the form being rejected.
  • Don't leave any sections blank. If a question does not apply to you, write "N/A" instead of leaving it empty. Blank spaces can raise red flags during the review process.
  • Don't submit outdated versions of the form. Always check the USCIS website for the most current version of the I-134 form. Using an outdated form can lead to complications.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your application is processed smoothly and efficiently.

Misconceptions

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

  1. It guarantees a visa approval.

    Many believe that submitting the I-134 form will automatically lead to a visa being granted. In reality, while it is an important document, it is just one part of the entire application process. Visa approval depends on various factors, including eligibility and background checks.

  2. It requires a specific income level.

    Some think there is a fixed income threshold for all sponsors. However, the required income can vary based on the number of dependents and the type of visa being applied for. It's essential to review the specific guidelines for your situation.

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

    This is not true. Lawful permanent residents can also submit the I-134 form as long as they meet other eligibility criteria. The key is to demonstrate the ability to support the applicant.

  4. It is only for family members.

    While many use the I-134 for family-based immigration, it can also support non-family members. This includes individuals seeking humanitarian protection or certain employment-based visas.

  5. Once filed, it cannot be changed.

    Some people think that once the form is submitted, it is set in stone. In fact, sponsors can update their information or withdraw their support if necessary, but they should do so promptly and follow the correct procedures.

Key takeaways

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is an important document for individuals seeking to sponsor a non-citizen. Here are key takeaways for filling out and using this form:

  • Purpose: The I-134 form demonstrates that a sponsor has sufficient financial resources to support a non-citizen during their stay in the U.S.
  • Eligibility: Sponsors must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents and must meet specific income requirements.
  • Documentation: Gather necessary documents, such as tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements, to prove financial stability.
  • Accuracy: Ensure all information provided is accurate and truthful to avoid delays or denials.
  • Signature: The sponsor must sign the form, confirming their commitment to support the non-citizen.
  • Submission: Submit the completed form along with any required supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS office.
  • Processing Time: Be aware that processing times can vary, so plan accordingly.
  • Legal Obligations: Signing the I-134 creates a legal obligation to support the non-citizen financially.
  • Updates: If financial circumstances change, the sponsor should update USCIS to maintain compliance with the obligations.