Fill Out a Valid USCIS I-134 Form

Fill Out a Valid USCIS I-134 Form

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a document used to demonstrate that a visa applicant has adequate financial support during their stay in the United States. This form is essential for individuals seeking certain types of non-immigrant visas, as it helps assure immigration officials that the applicant will not become a public charge. By completing the I-134, sponsors can affirm their commitment to financially support the visa applicant while they are in the country.

Access This USCIS I-134 Now

The USCIS I-134 form, officially known as the Affidavit of Support, plays a pivotal role in the immigration process for individuals seeking to enter the United States. Designed to demonstrate that a visa applicant has adequate financial backing, this form is often required for non-immigrant visa applicants, particularly those applying for tourist or student visas. By filling out the I-134, a sponsor, usually a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, asserts their willingness to support the visa applicant financially, ensuring that they will not become a public charge while in the country. The form collects essential information about the sponsor’s income, assets, and household size, which helps immigration officials assess the sponsor's ability to provide for the applicant. Additionally, the I-134 requires the sponsor to provide evidence of their financial stability, such as tax returns or pay stubs, which further substantiates their commitment. Understanding the nuances of this form is crucial for both sponsors and applicants, as it can significantly impact the outcome of the visa application process.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the USCIS I-134 form, it is important to approach the task with care. This form is used to demonstrate that a visa applicant has adequate financial support. Here are some essential dos and don'ts to consider.

  • Do provide accurate and complete information. Incomplete or incorrect details can lead to delays or denials.
  • Do ensure all required signatures are present. Missing signatures can invalidate the form.
  • Do attach supporting documentation. This may include proof of income, bank statements, or tax returns.
  • Do review the form before submission. Double-checking can help catch errors or omissions.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records. This can be useful for future reference.
  • Don't use white-out or correction fluid. Such alterations can raise red flags during processing.
  • Don't leave any questions unanswered. Every section of the form must be addressed.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing the instructions. Understanding the requirements is crucial.
  • Don't rush the process. Take your time to ensure accuracy and completeness.
  • Don't forget to check the submission method. Make sure you are sending it to the correct address.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can enhance the likelihood of a smooth application process. Taking the time to fill out the form correctly is essential for both the applicant and the sponsor.

Key takeaways

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

  1. Purpose: The I-134 form demonstrates that the sponsor has sufficient financial resources to support the visa applicant.
  2. Eligibility: Any U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident can complete the form as a sponsor.
  3. Income Requirements: Sponsors must meet specific income thresholds, typically at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
  4. Documentation: Attach supporting documents, such as tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements, to verify financial stability.
  5. Completeness: Ensure all sections of the form are filled out accurately to avoid delays or denials.
  6. Signature: The sponsor must sign the form, confirming the information is true and that they understand their obligations.
  7. Submission: The completed form should be submitted along with the visa application to the appropriate USCIS office.
  8. Legal Obligations: By signing the I-134, the sponsor agrees to support the applicant financially, if necessary.
  9. Validity: The I-134 form is generally valid for the duration of the visa application process but may need to be updated if circumstances change.

Understanding these key points will help ensure a smooth application process for both the sponsor and the visa applicant.

Find Common Documents

Example - USCIS I-134 Form

 

Affidavit of Support

USCIS

 

Department of Homeland Security

Form I-134

 

OMB No. 1615-0014

 

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Expires 02/28/2021

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

START HERE - Type or print in black ink.

Part 1. Information About You (the Sponsor)

Your Full Name

1.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

1.b. Given Name

(First Name)

1.c. Middle Name

Other Names Used

List 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 7.

Additional Information.

2.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

2.b. Given Name

(First Name)

2.c. Middle Name

Sponsor's Mailing Address

(USPS ZIP Code Lookup)

 

 

3.a. In Care Of Name

3.b. Street Number

and Name

3.c. Apt. Ste. Flr.

3.d. City or Town

3.e. State

 

3.f. ZIP Code

 

 

 

3.g. Province

3.h. Postal Code

3.i. Country

4.Are your mailing address and physical address the same?

Yes No

If you answered "No" to Item Number 4., provide your physical address in Item Numbers 5.a. - 5.h.

Sponsor's Physical Address

5.a. Street Number

and Name

5.b. Apt. Ste. Flr.

5.c. City or Town

5.d. State

 

5.e. ZIP Code

 

 

 

5.f. Province

5.g. Postal Code

5.h. Country

Other Information

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

7.a. Town or City of Birth

7.b. Country of Birth

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

A-

9.U.S. Social Security Number (if any)

10.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

Citizenship or Residency or Status

If you are not a U.S. citizen based on your birth in the United States, or a non-citizen U.S. national based on your birth in American Samoa (including Swains Island), answer the following as appropriate:

11.a. I am a U.S. citizen through naturalization. My Certificate of Naturalization number is

11.b. I am a U.S. citizen through parent(s) or marriage. My Certificate of Citizenship number is

Form I-134 02/13/19

Page 1 of 8

Part 1. Information About You (the Sponsor)

(continued)

11.c.

 

I derived my U.S. citizenship by another method.

 

 

(Provide an explain in Part 7. Additional

 

 

Information.)

11.d.

 

I am a lawful permanent resident of the

 

 

United States. My A-Number is

 

 

A-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11.e.

 

I am a lawfully admitted nonimmigrant. My

 

 

Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record Number is

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12.

I am

 

 

 

years of age and have resided in the United

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

States since (Date) (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Part 2. Information About the Beneficiary

This affidavit is executed on behalf of the following person:

1.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

1.b. Given Name

(First Name)

1.c. Middle Name

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

3. Gender Male Female

4.A-Number (if any)

A-

5.Country of Citizenship or Nationality

6.Marital Status

Single or Single, Never Married

Married

Divorced

Widowed

Legally Separated

Marriage Annulled

Other

7.Relationship to Sponsor

Beneficiary's Physical Address

8.a.

Street Number

 

 

 

 

 

and Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Apt.

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.b.

Ste.

Flr.

 

 

8.c.

City or Town

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.d.

State

 

 

 

8.e.

ZIP Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.f.

Province

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.g.

Postal Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.h.

Country

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beneficiary's Spouse (accompanying or following to join beneficiary)

9.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

9.b. Given Name

(First Name)

9.c. Middle Name

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

11.Gender Male Female

Beneficiary's Children

Child 1

12.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

12.b. Given Name

(First Name)

12.c. Middle Name

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

14.Gender Male Female

Child 2

15.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

15.b. Given Name

(First Name)

15.c. Middle Name

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

17. Gender Male Female

If you need additional space to complete this section, use the

space provided in Part 7. Additional Information.

Form I-134 02/13/19

Page 2 of 8

Part 3. Other Information About the Sponsor

7.a. I have life insurance in the sum of $

Employment Information

I am currently:

1.a. Employed as a/an

1.a.1. Name of Employer (if applicable)

1.b.

Self employed as a/an

 

 

 

 

Current Employer Address (if employed)

2.a. Street Number

and Name

2.b. Apt. Ste. Flr.

2.c. City or Town

2.d. State

 

2.e. ZIP Code

 

 

 

2.f. Province

2.g. Postal Code

2.h. Country

Income and Asset Information

3. My annual income is

$

(If self-employed, I have attached a copy of my last income tax return or report of commercial rating concern which I certify to be true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. See Instructions for nature of evidence of net worth to be submitted.)

4.Balance of all my savings and checking accounts in United States-based financial institutions

$

5.Value of my other personal property

$

6.Market value of my stocks and bonds

$

I have listed my stocks and bonds in Part 7. Additional Information (or attached a list of them), which I certify to be true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.

7.b. With a cash surrender value of

$

Real Estate Information

8.a. I own real estate valued at

$

8.b. I have mortgages or other debts amounting to

$

My real estate is located at:

9.a. Street Number

and Name

9.b. Apt. Ste. Flr.

9.c. City or Town

9.d. State

 

9.e. ZIP Code

 

 

 

Dependents' Information

The following persons are dependent upon me for support. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 7. Additional Information.

10.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

10.b. Given Name

(First Name)

10.c. Middle Name

11.Relationship to Me:

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

13.This person is:

Wholly Dependent On Me For Support

Partially Dependent On Me For Support

14.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

14.b. Given Name

(First Name)

14.c. Middle Name

15.Relationship to Me:

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

Form I-134 02/13/19

Page 3 of 8

Part 3. Other Information About the Sponsor

(continued)

17.This person is:

Wholly Dependent On Me For Support

Partially Dependent On Me For Support

18.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

18.b. Given Name

(First Name)

18.c. Middle Name

19.Relationship to Me:

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

21.This person is:

Wholly Dependent On Me For Support

Partially Dependent On Me For Support

I have previously submitted affidavit(s) of support for the following person(s). (If none, write "None" in the space for name below.)

22.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

22.b. Given Name

(First Name)

22.c. Middle Name

23.Date Submitted (mm/dd/yyyy)

24.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

24.b. Given Name

(First Name)

24.c. Middle Name

25.Date Submitted (mm/dd/yyyy)

I have submitted a visa petition(s) to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on behalf of the following persons. (If none, write “None” in the space for name below.)

26.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

26.b. Given Name

(First Name)

26.c. Middle Name

27.Relationship to Me:

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

29. Date of Filing (mm/dd/yyyy)

30.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

30.b. Given Name

(First Name)

30.c. Middle Name

31.Relationship to Me:

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

33. Date of Filing (mm/dd/yyyy)

34.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

34.b. Given Name

(First Name)

34.c. Middle Name

35.Relationship to Me:

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

37. Date of Filing (mm/dd/yyyy)

38.I intend do not intend to make specific contributions to the support of the person(s) named in Part 2.

(If you select "intend," indicate the exact nature and duration of the contributions you intend to make in Part 7. Additional Information. For example, if you intend to furnish room and board, state for how long and, if money, state the amount in U.S. dollars and whether it is to be given in a lump sum, weekly or monthly, and for how long.)

Form I-134 02/13/19

Page 4 of 8

Part 4. Sponsor's Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature

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

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 and

 

understand every question and instruction on this

 

affidavit and my answer to every question.

1.b.

The interpreter named in Part 5. read to me every

 

question and instruction on this affidavit and my

 

answer to every question in

 

 

,

 

 

 

 

a language in which I am fluent and I understood

 

everything.

2.

At my request, the preparer named in Part 6.,

 

 

 

 

,

 

 

 

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

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 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 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 affidavit, 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 affidavit;

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

That this affidavit is made by me to assure the U.S. Government that the person named in Part 2. will not become a public charge in the United States.

That I am willing and able to receive, maintain, and support the person named in Part 2. I am ready and willing to deposit a bond, if necessary, to guarantee that such persons will not become a public charge during his or her stay in the United States, or to guarantee that the above named persons will maintain his or her nonimmigrant status, if admitted temporarily, and will depart prior to the expiration of his or her authorized stay in the United States.

That I understand that Form I-134 is an "undertaking" under section 213 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, and I may be sued if the persons named in Part 2. become a public charge after admission to the United States.

That I understand that Form I-134 may be made available to any Federal, State, or local agency that may receive an application from the persons named in Part 2. for Food Stamps, Supplemental Security Income, or Temporary Assistance to Needy Families.

That I understand that if the person named in Part 2. does apply for Food Stamps, Supplemental Security Income, or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, my own income and assets may be considered in deciding the person's application. How long my income and assets may be attributed to the persons named in Part 2. is determined under the statutes and rules governing each specific program.

I acknowledge that I have read the section entitled Sponsor and Beneficiary Liability in the Instructions for this affidavit, and am aware of my responsibilities as a sponsor under the Social Security Act, as amended, and the Food Stamp Act, as amended.

Sponsor's Signature

6.a. Sponsor's Signature

6.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

Form I-134 02/13/19

Page 5 of 8

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 the Department of State may deny your affidavit.

Part 5. 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 Mailing Address

3.a. Street Number

and Name

3.b. Apt. Ste. Flr.

3.c. City or Town

3.d. State

 

3.e. ZIP Code

 

 

 

3.f. Province

3.g. Postal Code

3.h. Country

Interpreter's Certification

I certify, under penalty of perjury, that:

 

I am fluent in English and

,

which is the same language provided in Part 4., 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 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)

Part 6. Contact Information, Statement, 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)

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)

Preparer's Mailing Address

3.a. Street Number

and Name

3.b. Apt. Ste. Flr.

3.c. City or Town

3.d. State

 

3.e. ZIP Code

 

 

 

3.f. Province

3.g. Postal Code

3.h. Country

Form I-134 02/13/19

Page 6 of 8

Part 6. Contact Information, Statement, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Affidavit, if Other Than the

Sponsor (continued)

Preparer's Contact Information

4.Preparer's Daytime Telephone Number

5.Preparer's Fax Number

6.Preparer's Email Address (if any)

Preparer's Statement

7.a.

I am not an attorney or accredited representative but have prepared this affidavit on behalf of the sponsor and with the sponsor's consent.

7.b. I am an attorney or accredited representative and my representation of the sponsor in this case

extends does not extend beyond the preparation of this affidavit.

NOTE: If you are an attorney or accredited representative whose representation extends beyond preparation of this affidavit, you may be obliged to submit a completed Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, with this application.

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 Sponsor's 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

8.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

Form I-134 02/13/19

Page 7 of 8

Part 7. 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 A-Number (if any) at the top of each sheet; type or print the Page Number, Part Number, and Item Number to which your answer refers; and sign and date each sheet.

5.a. Page Number 5.b. Part Number 5.c. Item Number

5.d.

Your Full Name

1.a.

Family Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Last Name)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.b.

Given Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(First Name)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.c.

Middle Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.

A-Number (if any)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.a. Page Number 6.b. Part Number 6.c. Item Number

 

 

 

A-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.a.

Page Number 3.b. Part Number

3.c. Item Number

6.d.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.d.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7.a. Page Number 7.b. Part Number 7.c. Item Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.a. Page Number 4.b. Part Number

4.c. Item Number

7.d.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.d.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form I-134 02/13/19

Page 8 of 8

Misconceptions

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, plays a critical role in the immigration process. However, several misconceptions surround this form that can lead to confusion. Here are four common misunderstandings:

  • The I-134 form guarantees visa approval. Many people believe that submitting the I-134 form will automatically result in the approval of a visa application. In reality, while the form is an important part of the process, it does not guarantee that the applicant will receive a visa. The decision ultimately rests with the immigration officer reviewing the case.
  • Only U.S. citizens can complete the I-134 form. A common belief is that only U.S. citizens are eligible to fill out this form. In truth, lawful permanent residents can also act as sponsors. However, they must demonstrate sufficient financial stability to support the applicant.
  • The I-134 form is the same as the I-864 form. Some individuals mistakenly think that the I-134 and I-864 forms serve the same purpose. While both are affidavits of support, the I-864 is a more formal and binding document required for certain immigration processes, particularly for family-based green card applications. The I-134 is generally used for non-immigrant visa applications.
  • Submitting the I-134 form means you will be financially responsible for the applicant indefinitely. There is a misconception that signing the I-134 form creates a lifelong financial obligation to support the applicant. In reality, the responsibilities outlined in the I-134 are not as extensive as those in the I-864. The sponsor must demonstrate the ability to support the applicant but is not legally bound to provide support forever.

Understanding these misconceptions can help individuals navigate the immigration process more effectively and avoid potential pitfalls.

Similar forms

  • Affidavit of Support (Form I-864): This document is also used to demonstrate financial support for a visa applicant. However, it is typically required for family-based immigration and has stricter income requirements compared to the I-134.

  • Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): While this form establishes a relationship between a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and a foreign relative, it often accompanies the I-134 to show that the petitioner can financially support the immigrant.

  • Form I-526 (Immigrant Petition by Alien Entrepreneur): This form is for investors seeking to immigrate based on investment in a U.S. business. Similar to the I-134, it requires evidence of financial stability but focuses on investment rather than personal support.

  • Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application): This form is used by individuals applying for an immigrant visa. Like the I-134, it assesses financial capability, although it is part of a broader application process.

  • Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence): This document is used by conditional residents to prove their marriage is genuine. Financial support evidence, similar to what is required in the I-134, may be included to demonstrate the legitimacy of the relationship.

  • Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization): This form is for individuals applying for U.S. citizenship. While it focuses more on residency and moral character, applicants may need to show financial stability, paralleling the financial assurances in the I-134.