Form I-134 Fee: A Complete Guide For Sponsors

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The United States has a long history of welcoming immigrants and providing opportunities for them to build a better life for themselves and their families. One crucial step in the immigration process is obtaining a visa, which often requires the sponsorship of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. In this context, the Form I-134, Affidavit of Support, plays a vital role in demonstrating the sponsor's financial capacity to support the immigrant.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of the Form I-134 fee, its significance, and the requirements involved in the process. Whether you are a prospective sponsor or an immigrant seeking to understand the sponsorship process, this article aims to provide you with valuable insights and practical information.

What is Form I-134, and why is it necessary?

Form I-134, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a document that a U.S. citizen or permanent resident must sign and submit to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to sponsor an immigrant's visa application. The form serves as a legally binding contract between the sponsor and the U.S. government, ensuring that the sponsor is financially responsible for the immigrant's well-being and will not become a public charge.

The Form I-134 is typically required for family-based immigration, including spouses, children, parents, and siblings of U.S. citizens or permanent residents. The sponsor must demonstrate that they have sufficient income and resources to support the immigrant, ensuring that they will not rely on government assistance programs.

What is the Form I-134 fee?

The Form I-134 fee is not a separate charge, but rather, it is part of the overall cost associated with filing the Affidavit of Support. The current filing fee for Form I-134 is $0, as it is a required document that accompanies other immigration applications.

However, the sponsor may need to pay additional fees for related services, such as:

• Filing fees for the immigrant's visa application (e.g., Form DS-260, Online Immigrant Visa Application, or Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status)
• Biometric services fees
• Premium processing fees (optional)

How to file Form I-134?

To file Form I-134, the sponsor must follow these steps:

1. Determine eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria to sponsor an immigrant, including being a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, being at least 18 years old, and having a domicile in the United States.
2. Gather required documents: Collect financial documents, such as:
   • Tax returns (Form 1040) for the past three years
   • W-2 forms
   • Pay stubs
   • Bank statements
   • Proof of income and employment
3. Complete Form I-134: Download and fill out Form I-134 from the USCIS website or obtain a paper copy from a USCIS office. Provide accurate and complete information, including your personal details, income, and employment information.
4. Sign and date the form: Sign and date the form in the presence of a notary public.
5. Submit the form: Attach the completed Form I-134 to the immigrant's visa application package and submit it to the relevant USCIS office or U.S. embassy/consulate.

Supporting documents and requirements

To support your Form I-134, you will need to provide financial documents that demonstrate your ability to support the immigrant. These documents may include:

• Income evidence: Tax returns, W-2 forms, pay stubs, and letters from employers
• Asset evidence: Bank statements, investment accounts, and property deeds
• Joint sponsors: If you have a joint sponsor, they must also submit a separate Form I-134 and supporting documents

Consequences of not meeting the Form I-134 requirements

Failure to meet the Form I-134 requirements or provide accurate information can result in:

• Denial of the immigrant's visa application
• Delays in processing the immigrant's application
• Requiring additional documentation or evidence
• Potential liability for the sponsor

Best practices for sponsors

To ensure a smooth and successful sponsorship process:

• Carefully review and complete Form I-134
• Gather all required supporting documents
• Submit the form and supporting documents in a timely manner
• Seek guidance from an immigration attorney or expert if needed

Conclusion and next steps

In conclusion, the Form I-134 fee is an integral part of the immigration sponsorship process. By understanding the requirements and submitting accurate and complete information, sponsors can help ensure a successful outcome for the immigrant's visa application.

If you have any questions or concerns about the Form I-134 process or would like to learn more about immigration sponsorship, we encourage you to:

• Share this article with friends and family who may be interested
• Leave a comment below with your thoughts or questions
• Seek guidance from an immigration attorney or expert

Remember, sponsoring an immigrant is a significant responsibility, and it is essential to approach the process with careful attention to detail and a commitment to supporting the immigrant's well-being.