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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 by U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to demonstrate their financial ability to support a foreign national during their stay in the country. By completing the I-134, sponsors affirm that they can provide adequate financial support, ensuring that the immigrant will not become a public charge. The form requires detailed information about the sponsor's income, assets, and household size, as well as the relationship between the sponsor and the immigrant. It is essential for both the sponsor and the applicant to understand the responsibilities that come with this commitment, as it serves as a binding agreement to support the immigrant financially. Additionally, the I-134 form is often a critical component in various immigration applications, including those for visitor visas and adjustment of status. Understanding the nuances of this form can significantly impact the success of an immigration application, making it vital for both sponsors and applicants to approach it with care and diligence.

Form Sample

 

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

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Document Specifications

Fact Name Description
Purpose The I-134 form is used to demonstrate financial support for a visa applicant.
Who Uses It U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can use this form to sponsor someone.
Filing Location The form is submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Supporting Documents Applicants must include proof of income and assets with the form.
Validity The I-134 form does not guarantee visa approval; it only shows financial capability.
State-Specific Forms Some states may have additional requirements or forms based on local laws.
Governing Law The I-134 form is governed by federal immigration laws, specifically the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Submission Method The form can be submitted online or via mail, depending on the specific case.

Steps to Filling Out USCIS I-134

After you have gathered the necessary information and documents, you can begin filling out the USCIS I-134 form. Ensure that you provide accurate and complete information to avoid delays in processing. Once the form is filled out, you will be able to submit it along with any required supporting documents.

  1. Download the USCIS I-134 form from the official USCIS website.
  2. Read the instructions carefully before starting to fill out the form.
  3. Provide your personal information, including your full name, address, and contact details in the designated sections.
  4. Fill out information about your immigration status and the purpose of the form.
  5. Complete the section regarding your financial information, including your income and assets.
  6. List any dependents you are financially responsible for, if applicable.
  7. Sign and date the form where indicated.
  8. Review the completed form for accuracy and completeness.
  9. Gather any required supporting documents that need to be submitted with the form.
  10. Submit the form and documents as instructed on the USCIS website.

More About USCIS I-134

What is the USCIS I-134 form?

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a document that a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident completes to demonstrate their financial ability to support a foreign national. This form is often used in visa applications, particularly for family members or individuals seeking humanitarian protection.

Who needs to fill out the I-134 form?

The I-134 form is typically filled out by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who are sponsoring a foreign national for a visa. This includes situations like family reunification or humanitarian parole. The sponsor must prove they have sufficient income or assets to support the foreign national during their stay in the United States.

What information is required on the I-134 form?

The form requires personal information about both the sponsor and the beneficiary. This includes names, addresses, dates of birth, and financial details such as income, assets, and employment information. The sponsor must also provide information about any dependents they have.

How does the I-134 form affect the visa application process?

Submitting the I-134 form is a crucial step in the visa application process. It helps immigration officials assess whether the foreign national will have adequate financial support during their stay in the U.S. A properly completed I-134 can strengthen the visa application, while an incomplete or inaccurate form may lead to delays or denials.

Is there a fee to file the I-134 form?

There is no fee to file the I-134 form. It is submitted directly to the U.S. government as part of the visa application process. However, applicants should be aware of any other associated costs, such as visa application fees.

How long does it take to process the I-134 form?

The processing time for the I-134 form can vary. Generally, it is processed alongside the visa application, and the overall timeline depends on the specific circumstances of the case. Applicants should be prepared for potential delays and monitor the status of their application through the appropriate channels.

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

While the I-134 form is commonly used for family-based visas and humanitarian cases, it is not applicable for all visa types. Some visas, like employment-based visas, have different requirements for financial support. Always check the specific requirements for the type of visa being sought.

What happens if my financial situation changes after submitting the I-134?

If your financial situation changes significantly after you submit the I-134 form, it is important to inform the relevant authorities. A change in income or assets could affect your ability to support the beneficiary. Transparency is crucial, as failing to disclose changes may have negative consequences for the visa application.

Where do I send the completed I-134 form?

The completed I-134 form should be submitted to the appropriate U.S. consulate or embassy if the beneficiary is applying for a visa outside the United States. If the application is being processed within the U.S., it should be sent to the relevant USCIS office. Always check the latest guidelines for the correct submission address.

Common mistakes

  1. Not providing complete information. Many people leave sections blank or fail to answer questions thoroughly. This can lead to delays or denials.

  2. Incorrect financial information. Applicants often miscalculate their income or assets, which can create doubts about their ability to support the visa applicant.

  3. Missing required documents. Forgetting to include necessary supporting documents, such as tax returns or bank statements, can cause issues.

  4. Using outdated forms. Always check to ensure you are using the most current version of the I-134 form. Using an old version can lead to complications.

  5. Failing to sign the form. It may seem simple, but forgetting to sign the form can result in immediate rejection.

  6. Providing inconsistent information. Ensure that all information matches across different forms and documents. Inconsistencies can raise red flags.

  7. Not understanding the purpose of the form. The I-134 is a declaration of financial support. Misunderstanding this can lead to errors in how the form is filled out.

  8. Submitting the form without reviewing it. A final check can catch mistakes. Taking the time to review can save a lot of hassle later.

Documents used along the form

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is an important document for individuals seeking to sponsor a foreign national for a visa. Along with the I-134, several other forms and documents may be necessary to provide a complete application package. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that can accompany the I-134.

  • Form I-130: This is the Petition for Alien Relative. It establishes a qualifying relationship between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and the foreign national seeking a visa.
  • Form I-864: Known as the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act, this form is used when the sponsor is a relative of the applicant and is required to demonstrate financial support.
  • Tax Returns: Recent tax returns help prove the sponsor's financial ability to support the applicant. Typically, the last three years of tax returns are requested.
  • Employment Verification Letter: A letter from the sponsor’s employer can confirm employment status, position, and salary, providing further evidence of financial stability.
  • Bank Statements: Current bank statements can demonstrate the sponsor’s financial resources and ability to support the applicant during their stay in the U.S.
  • Proof of Citizenship or Residency: Documents such as a birth certificate, passport, or green card are needed to confirm the sponsor’s legal status in the United States.
  • Form I-797: This is the Notice of Action, which serves as proof of the receipt of the I-130 petition or any other relevant USCIS application or petition.
  • Form G-325A: This is the Biographic Information form, which collects personal information about the applicant, including their history and background.

Gathering these documents along with the USCIS I-134 form can strengthen the application process. Each document plays a crucial role in demonstrating the sponsor's ability to support the foreign national and ensuring compliance with immigration requirements.

Similar forms

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is similar to the I-864 form. Both documents serve to demonstrate that a sponsor has the financial means to support an immigrant. However, while the I-134 is often used for non-immigrant visa applicants, the I-864 is required for most family-based and some employment-based immigrants. The I-864 requires the sponsor to prove their income and assets in more detail, including providing tax returns and proof of current employment, whereas the I-134 is less stringent in its requirements.

Another document comparable to the I-134 is the I-130 form, Petition for Alien Relative. The I-130 establishes a qualifying relationship between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and the foreign national they wish to sponsor. While the I-134 focuses on the financial support aspect, the I-130 is primarily concerned with the legitimacy of the relationship. Both forms are often submitted together, especially in family-based immigration cases.

The I-601 form, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility, also shares similarities with the I-134. While the I-134 affirms financial support, the I-601 addresses the legal eligibility of an applicant who may be inadmissible to the U.S. due to various reasons, such as criminal history or immigration violations. In some cases, a sponsor may need to provide an I-134 along with an I-601 to demonstrate their willingness to support the applicant financially, which can help in the waiver process.

The I-485 form, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is another document that relates to the I-134. The I-485 is used by individuals already in the U.S. who are seeking to become lawful permanent residents. While the I-134 is often included as part of the supporting documentation for the I-485, it specifically addresses the financial backing necessary for the adjustment of status process, ensuring the applicant will not become a public charge.

The DS-260 form, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application, is similar in that it is used by individuals applying for immigrant visas from outside the U.S. Like the I-134, the DS-260 requires information about the applicant's background and intentions. When submitting the DS-260, applicants must often include an I-134 to show that they have a financial sponsor in the U.S. who can support them upon arrival.

The I-907 form, Request for Premium Processing Service, can also be viewed as related to the I-134 in the context of expediting immigration processes. While the I-134 focuses on financial sponsorship, the I-907 allows certain applicants to pay for faster processing of their petitions or applications. This can be particularly relevant for individuals who need timely approval for their immigration status, and having a sponsor who can provide an I-134 can support their case.

The G-28 form, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, is another document that intersects with the I-134. While the G-28 itself does not pertain to financial support, it is often filed alongside various immigration forms, including the I-134. This form designates an attorney or representative to act on behalf of the applicant, ensuring that all necessary documents, including the I-134, are properly submitted and processed.

Finally, the N-400 form, Application for Naturalization, can be related to the I-134 in cases where a naturalization applicant may need to show that they have been supported adequately during their time in the U.S. While the N-400 primarily focuses on an applicant's eligibility for citizenship, financial support can play a role in demonstrating good moral character, particularly if the applicant has relied on public benefits. In such cases, the I-134 may be referenced to show that the applicant had a sponsor who provided necessary support.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the USCIS I-134 form, it is essential to approach the task with care. Here are ten important guidelines to follow:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
  • Do provide accurate and complete information.
  • Do sign and date the form where required.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
  • Do use black ink to fill out the form.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank.
  • Don't use abbreviations unless specified in the instructions.
  • Don't submit the form without checking for errors.
  • Don't forget to include supporting documents if required.
  • Don't submit the form after the deadline.

Misconceptions

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is often misunderstood. Here are some common misconceptions that individuals may have about this important document:

  1. It is a binding contract.

    Many believe that signing the I-134 creates a legally binding contract. In reality, it is a declaration of support and does not impose legal obligations in the same way that a contract would.

  2. Only U.S. citizens can fill out the form.

    Some think that only U.S. citizens are eligible to complete the I-134. However, lawful permanent residents can also act as sponsors.

  3. Income must be above a certain threshold.

    While it is true that sponsors should demonstrate financial capability, there is no specific income threshold that must be met. The USCIS evaluates the overall financial situation of the sponsor.

  4. It guarantees a visa approval.

    There is a misconception that submitting the I-134 guarantees the approval of a visa application. The form is only one part of the process and does not ensure that the application will be successful.

  5. It can be used for any type of visa.

    Some individuals believe the I-134 can support any visa application. However, it is primarily used for non-immigrant visa applications, such as tourist or student visas.

  6. Once submitted, it cannot be changed.

    There is a belief that once the I-134 is submitted, it cannot be altered. In fact, sponsors can update or amend the information if necessary before the visa interview.

  7. It needs to be notarized.

    Some think that the I-134 must be notarized to be valid. However, notarization is not a requirement for this form.

  8. It is only needed for immediate family members.

    Many assume that the I-134 is only required for immediate family members. In reality, it can also be used to support friends or other relatives applying for certain visas.

  9. Submitting the form is the only requirement for sponsorship.

    Lastly, there is a misconception that submitting the I-134 is the only step in the sponsorship process. In addition to this form, sponsors must also provide supporting documentation to demonstrate their financial stability.

Understanding these misconceptions can help individuals navigate the process more effectively and ensure that they provide the necessary support for their loved ones.

Key takeaways

When completing the USCIS I-134 form, it is essential to keep several key points in mind to ensure a smooth process. Here are six important takeaways:

  • Understand the Purpose: The I-134 form serves as an affidavit of support. It helps demonstrate that a visa applicant has adequate financial backing during their stay in the U.S.
  • Provide Accurate Information: Fill out the form with precise and truthful information. Inaccuracies can lead to delays or denials in the visa application process.
  • Include Supporting Documents: Attach necessary documents that prove your financial stability, such as tax returns, bank statements, and employment verification letters.
  • Sign and Date the Form: Ensure that you sign and date the form before submission. An unsigned form will be considered incomplete and may be rejected.
  • Check for Updates: Regularly verify if there are any changes to the form or the requirements by visiting the official USCIS website.
  • Consult a Professional if Needed: If you have questions or concerns, consider seeking guidance from an immigration attorney or a qualified legal consultant to navigate the process effectively.

By keeping these points in mind, you can enhance your chances of successfully using the I-134 form for your visa application needs.