The Form I-134, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a crucial document for individuals sponsoring a visa applicant. It is a legally binding contract between the sponsor and the U.S. government, ensuring that the sponsored individual will not become a public charge. In this article, we will delve into the world of Form I-134 instructions, providing a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the complexities of this document.
The Importance of Form I-134
Before we dive into the instructions, it is essential to understand the significance of Form I-134. This document is required for various types of visas, including family-based visas, employment-based visas, and refugee visas. The primary purpose of the Affidavit of Support is to demonstrate that the sponsor has sufficient financial resources to support the visa applicant, thereby ensuring that they will not become a burden on the U.S. government.
Eligibility to Sponsor
To be eligible to sponsor a visa applicant, you must meet specific requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen or national
- Be a permanent resident
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Meet the income requirements (more on this later)
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
To complete Form I-134, you will need to gather the following documents:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or nationality (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate)
- Proof of permanent residence (green card)
- Proof of income (tax returns, W-2 forms, or pay stubs)
- Proof of employment (letter from employer or business registration documents)
Step 2: Determine Your Income Level
To qualify as a sponsor, you must meet the income requirements. The minimum income level is typically 125% of the federal poverty guidelines for your household size. You can use the following table to determine your required income level:
| Household Size | 125% of Federal Poverty Guidelines |
|---|---|
| 1 | $12,880 |
| 2 | $17,420 |
| 3 | $21,960 |
| 4 | $26,500 |
| 5 | $31,040 |
| 6 | $35,580 |
Step 3: Complete Form I-134
Now that you have gathered the required documents and determined your income level, it is time to complete Form I-134. The form consists of eight parts:
- Part 1: Sponsor's Information
- Part 2: Beneficiary's Information
- Part 3: Sponsor's Household Size
- Part 4: Sponsor's Income
- Part 5: Sponsor's Employment
- Part 6: Sponsor's Assets
- Part 7: Sponsor's Signature
- Part 8: Preparer's Information (if applicable)
Step 4: Sign and Notarize the Form
Once you have completed Form I-134, you must sign it in front of a notary public. This is a critical step, as it verifies your identity and ensures that you understand the obligations and responsibilities associated with sponsoring a visa applicant.
Step 5: Submit the Form
After signing and notarizing the form, you must submit it to the relevant authorities. This may include the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the U.S. Department of State, or the U.S. embassy or consulate in the beneficiary's country.
Tips and Reminders
- Ensure that you provide accurate and complete information on Form I-134.
- Use black ink when signing the form.
- Keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
- Understand that sponsoring a visa applicant is a long-term commitment, typically lasting 10 years or until the beneficiary becomes a U.S. citizen or is able to support themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Form I-134?
+The purpose of Form I-134 is to demonstrate that the sponsor has sufficient financial resources to support the visa applicant, thereby ensuring that they will not become a public charge.
What are the income requirements for sponsoring a visa applicant?
+The minimum income level is typically 125% of the federal poverty guidelines for your household size.
How long is the sponsorship commitment?
+The sponsorship commitment typically lasts 10 years or until the beneficiary becomes a U.S. citizen or is able to support themselves.
In conclusion, Form I-134 is a critical document for individuals sponsoring a visa applicant. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can ensure that you complete the form accurately and understand the obligations and responsibilities associated with sponsoring a visa applicant. Remember to provide accurate and complete information, use black ink when signing the form, and keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
We hope that this article has been informative and helpful. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to comment below. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about Form I-134 instructions.