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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 who wish to sponsor a foreign national for a visa or green card. By completing the I-134, sponsors demonstrate their financial ability to support the applicant, ensuring that the individual will not become a public charge. The form requires detailed information about the sponsor's income, assets, and household size, allowing immigration officials to assess the sponsor's financial stability. Additionally, the I-134 includes a commitment from the sponsor to provide financial support, if necessary, for the duration of the applicant's stay in the U.S. Understanding the requirements and implications of the I-134 form is essential for both sponsors and applicants, as it can significantly impact the outcome of the immigration process.

Preview - USCIS I-134 Form

Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25 Page 1 of 10
Declaration of Financial Support
Department of Homeland Security
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
USCIS
Form I-134
OMB No. 1615-0014
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.
Family Name (Last Name) Given Name (First Name) Middle Name (if applicable)
Current Legal Name (Do not provide a nickname.)1.
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.
Middle Name (if applicable) Given Name (First Name)Family Name (Last Name)
Other Names Used2.
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? Yes No
If you answered "No" to Item Number 4., provide your current physical address in Item Number 5.
Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25 Page 2 of 10
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
Part 2. Information About the Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary (continued)
6. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
7. Place of Birth
Country
State or ProvinceCity or Town
A-
►
Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any)8.
10. What is your current immigration status?
U.S. Citizen Lawful Permanent ResidentU.S. National Nonimmigrant Asylee
Refugee Parolee TPS holder
Beneficiary of deferred action (including DACA) or Deferred Enforced Departure
Other (Explain)
USCIS Online Account Number (if any)9.
►
What is your relationship to the beneficiary?11.
Employment Status
12.
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 3 of 10
Part 2. Information About the Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary (continued)
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.
15.
Full Name Date of Birth
(mm/dd/yyyy)
Relationship to you
A-Number (if any) Receipt Number (if any)
$What is your current annual income? 16.
How many other dependents do you support (including yourself)? Do not include individuals in Item Number 13. and the
beneficiary named in Part 3.
14.
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) $
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.
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.
Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25 Page 4 of 10
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.
Beneficiary's Current Legal Name (Do not provide a nickname.)
Family Name (Last Name) Given Name (First Name) Middle Name (if applicable)
1.
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.
Middle Name (if applicable)Given Name (First Name)Family Name (Last Name)
2. Other Names Used
3.
Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy) 4.
Male Female
Sex
A-
►
Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any)5.
6. Place of Birth
7. Country of Citizenship or Nationality
Country
State or ProvinceCity or Town
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.
19.
Part 2. Information About the Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary (continued)
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.
In addition to providing financial support, I intend to make specific contributions to cover the
beneficiary's basic living needs.
Intent to Provide Specific Contributions to the Beneficiary
18.
Yes No
Part 3. Information about the Beneficiary
Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25 Page 5 of 10
Part 3. Information about the Beneficiary (continued)
8.
Marital Status
Single, Never Married Married Divorced Widowed Legally Separated Marriage Annulled
Other (Explain):
In Care Of Name (if any)
City or Town State ZIP Code
NumberFlr.Ste.Apt.Street Number and Name
Postal Code
Province
Country
Beneficiary's Current Physical Address11.
If you answered “No” to Item Number 10., provide the physical address in Item Number 11.
Beneficiary's Anticipated Length of Stay
Beneficiary's Anticipated Period of Stay in the United States12.
(mm/dd/yyyy)
No End Date
To (select one):
From (mm/dd/yyyy)
10. Are the beneficiary's mailing address and physical address the same?
Yes No
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
Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25 Page 6 of 10
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 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.
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.
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.
Beneficiary's Signature Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy) 6.
Beneficiary's Signature
That I am willing and able to pay for necessary expenses for the duration of my temporary stay in the United States.
Part 4. Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature of the Beneficiary (if filing Form
I-134 on his or her own behalf)
Beneficiary's Contact Information
5.
Beneficiary's Email Address (if any)
Beneficiary's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)4.Beneficiary's Daytime Telephone Number3.
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.
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.
The interpreter named in Part 6. read to me every question and instruction on this declaration and my answer to every B.
, a language in which I am fluent and I understood
At my request, the preparer named in Part 7.,2. , prepared
this declaration for me based only upon information I provided or authorized.
1.
question in
everything.
Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25 Page 7 of 10
Contact Information of Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary
5.
Email Address (if any)
Mobile Telephone Number (if any)4.Daytime Telephone Number3.
Certification of Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary
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:
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.
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.
Part 5. Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature of the Individual Agreeing to
Financially Support the Beneficiary
declaration for me based only upon information I provided or authorized.
2. At my request, the preparer named in Part 7., , prepared this
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.
NOTE: Read the Penalties section of the Form I-134 Instructions before completing this section.
If you are filing Form I-134 on behalf of someone else (the beneficiary listed in Part 3.), complete and sign Part 5.
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.
I, as the individual agreeing to financially support the beneficiary, certify the following:
1.
A.
The interpreter named in Part 6. read to me every question and instruction on this declaration and my answer to every B.
, a language in which I am fluent and I understood question in
Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25 Page 8 of 10
Part 6. Interpreter's Contact Information, Certification, and Signature
Interpreter's Full Name
Interpreter's Given Name (First Name)Interpreter's Family Name (Last Name)1.
Interpreter's Business or Organization Name2.
Interpreter's Contact Information
Interpreter's Daytime Telephone Number Interpreter's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)3. 4.
Interpreter's Email Address (if any) 5.
Interpreter's Certification
I certify, under penalty of perjury, that:
I am fluent in English and
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.
Interpreter's Signature Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy) 6.
Part 5. Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature of the Individual Agreeing to
Financially Support the Beneficiary (continued)
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.
Signature of Individual Agreeing to Financially Support the Beneficiary
Signature Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy) 6.
, and I have interpreted every question on the
Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25 Page 9 of 10
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.
Preparer's Signature Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy) 6.
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 Contact Information
Preparer's Full Name
Preparer's Given Name (First Name)Preparer's Family Name (Last Name)1.
Preparer's Business or Organization Name 2.
Preparer's Daytime Telephone Number Preparer's Mobile Telephone Number 3. 4.
Preparer's Email Address (if any)5.
Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25 Page 10 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.
Page Number
Part Number Item Number
►
A-
A-Number (if any)2.
Page Number
Part Number Item Number
Family Name (Last Name) Given Name (First Name) Middle Name (if applicable)
Page Number Part Number Item Number
Page Number Part Number Item Number
3.
4.
5.
6.
▼ PDF

Document Specifics

Fact Name Description
Purpose The I-134 form is used to demonstrate that a visa applicant has adequate financial support during their stay in the U.S.
Who Files A U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident typically files this form on behalf of the visa applicant.
Supporting Documents Along with the I-134, the sponsor must provide proof of income, assets, and other financial resources.
Where to Submit The completed form is submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the consulate where the visa application is processed.
Validity The I-134 form does not guarantee visa approval but serves as evidence of financial support.
State-Specific Forms Some states may have additional requirements or forms related to financial support, governed by state law.
Legal Obligations By signing the I-134, the sponsor agrees to provide financial support, which may be enforceable in court.

USCIS I-134: Usage Instruction

Completing the USCIS I-134 form is an important step in the process of supporting an individual seeking to enter the United States. After filling out this form, you will need to gather any required supporting documents and submit everything to the appropriate authorities. This ensures that your application is complete and can be processed without unnecessary delays.

  1. Begin by downloading the USCIS I-134 form from the official USCIS website.
  2. Read the instructions carefully to understand the requirements for completing the form.
  3. Fill in your personal information in the designated sections. This includes your name, address, and contact details.
  4. Provide information about your immigration status. Indicate whether you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident.
  5. Detail your employment information, including your job title, employer's name, and annual income.
  6. List any dependents you have, including their names and relationships to you.
  7. Complete the section regarding your financial situation. This may include bank account information and other assets.
  8. Sign and date the form at the bottom. Ensure that your signature is clear and legible.
  9. Review the entire form for accuracy and completeness before submitting it.
  10. Gather any supporting documents required, such as proof of income or assets, and attach them to your form.
  11. Submit the completed form and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS office as specified in the instructions.

Learn More 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 used by individuals in the United States to demonstrate their financial ability to support a foreign national who is applying for a visa or seeking admission to the United States. This form helps ensure that the applicant will not become a public charge, meaning they will not rely on government assistance for support.

  2. Who needs to file the I-134 form?

    The I-134 form is typically filed by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who are sponsoring a foreign national for a non-immigrant visa, such as a tourist or student visa. It is also used in certain cases for humanitarian parole applicants. The sponsor must demonstrate sufficient income or assets to support the foreign national.

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

    The I-134 form requires detailed information about the sponsor, including:

    • Name and contact information
    • Social Security number
    • Employment details
    • Income and assets
    • Household size

    Additionally, the form asks for information about the foreign national being sponsored, including their name, relationship to the sponsor, and the purpose of their visit to the United States.

  4. How does one complete the I-134 form?

    To complete the I-134 form, the sponsor should follow these steps:

    1. Obtain the latest version of the form from the USCIS website.
    2. Fill out the form accurately, ensuring all required fields are completed.
    3. Gather supporting documents, such as proof of income, tax returns, and bank statements.
    4. Sign and date the form before submitting it.

    It is essential to review the form for accuracy and completeness to avoid delays in processing.

  5. Where should the I-134 form be submitted?

    The completed I-134 form should be submitted to the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate where the foreign national is applying for their visa. It is advisable to check the specific submission guidelines for that location, as procedures may vary.

  6. Is there a fee associated with filing the I-134 form?

    There is no fee for filing the I-134 form itself. However, the foreign national applying for a visa may be subject to other fees associated with their visa application process. It is important to review the specific requirements for the visa category being pursued.

  7. What happens after the I-134 form is submitted?

    After the I-134 form is submitted, the U.S. embassy or consulate will review the form along with the foreign national’s visa application. The consular officer may ask for additional documentation or clarification during the visa interview. The decision will be based on the overall eligibility of the applicant and the sponsor’s ability to provide support.

  8. Can the I-134 form be revoked?

    Yes, the sponsor can revoke the I-134 form at any time before the foreign national enters the United States. If circumstances change, such as a change in financial status or relationship, the sponsor should notify the consulate or embassy as soon as possible.

  9. What should a sponsor do if their financial situation changes?

    If a sponsor's financial situation changes significantly after submitting the I-134 form, they should take action to notify the consulate or embassy. The sponsor may need to provide updated financial documentation or consider finding a joint sponsor to meet the financial requirements for the foreign national's visa application.

Common mistakes

When filling out the USCIS I-134 form, many people make common mistakes that can delay the process or lead to denials. One frequent error is providing inaccurate personal information. This includes misspellings of names, incorrect dates of birth, or wrong addresses. Such inaccuracies can raise red flags and cause complications in the application process.

Another mistake is failing to include all required documentation. The I-134 form requires specific financial evidence to demonstrate the ability to support the applicant. Omitting these documents can result in a request for additional information, which can prolong the process.

Some individuals neglect to sign the form. A missing signature renders the application incomplete. It’s essential to double-check that all necessary signatures are present before submission.

Additionally, applicants sometimes use outdated versions of the form. USCIS regularly updates its forms, and using an old version can lead to rejection. Always ensure you are using the most current form available on the USCIS website.

Another common issue is providing insufficient financial information. The form requires details about income, assets, and liabilities. Incomplete or unclear financial data can lead to questions about the applicant's ability to provide support.

People also often miscalculate their income. Providing incorrect income figures, whether due to misunderstanding the instructions or simple math errors, can negatively impact the application. It is crucial to review all calculations carefully.

Some applicants fail to include dependents in their financial calculations. If you are financially responsible for other individuals, not mentioning them can misrepresent your financial situation. Be sure to list all dependents accurately.

Another mistake is not following the instructions regarding supporting documents. Each applicant must provide specific forms of evidence, such as tax returns or bank statements. Not adhering to these guidelines can cause delays.

Finally, some individuals submit the form without thoroughly reviewing it. Errors or omissions can easily be overlooked. Taking the time to review the completed form can help catch mistakes before submission.

Documents used along the form

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a critical document for individuals seeking to sponsor a visa applicant. To ensure a complete application process, several other forms and documents are often required. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that may accompany the I-134.

  • Form I-130: This is the Petition for Alien Relative. It establishes a qualifying relationship between the sponsor and the applicant.
  • Form I-864: The Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act is often required for family-based immigration. It demonstrates the sponsor's ability to financially support the applicant.
  • Form I-797: This is a Notice of Action, which serves as a receipt or approval notice for petitions filed with USCIS. It provides proof of the petition's status.
  • Proof of Income: Documentation such as tax returns, pay stubs, or bank statements that show the sponsor's financial capability to support the applicant.
  • Proof of Citizenship or Legal Status: This includes copies of U.S. passports, birth certificates, or green cards to verify the sponsor's eligibility.
  • Form I-94: The Arrival/Departure Record, which shows the applicant's immigration status and history in the U.S.
  • Employment Verification Letter: A letter from the sponsor's employer confirming employment status, position, and salary.
  • Affidavit of Support from Joint Sponsors: If the primary sponsor does not meet income requirements, additional sponsors can submit their own I-134 forms to support the applicant.
  • Medical Exam Results: Required for certain visa applications, these results must be provided by an authorized physician.

Submitting the appropriate forms and documents alongside the I-134 can significantly enhance the likelihood of a successful application. It is essential to gather all necessary materials to ensure compliance with USCIS requirements.

Similar forms

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a document used by individuals in the United States to demonstrate their financial ability to support a visa applicant. One document similar to the I-134 is the I-864, or Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act. Like the I-134, the I-864 serves as a promise of financial support for a family member or relative seeking to immigrate. However, the I-864 is legally binding and requires the sponsor to meet specific income requirements, making it a more formal commitment compared to the I-134.

Another related document is the I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. While the I-134 focuses on financial support, the I-130 is primarily used to establish a qualifying relationship between a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and a foreign relative. Both forms are often submitted together in family-based immigration cases, but they serve different purposes: one is about relationship verification, and the other is about financial capability.

The I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, also shares similarities with the I-134. This form is used by conditional residents who obtained their status through marriage and need to prove the legitimacy of their relationship. While the I-134 addresses financial support, the I-751 focuses on the authenticity of the marriage, yet both forms aim to demonstrate that the applicant has the necessary support, whether financial or relational, to remain in the U.S.

The I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, is another document that interacts with the I-134. While the I-134 is about proving financial support for a visa applicant, the I-765 allows individuals to apply for the right to work in the U.S. Both forms can be part of the immigration process for non-citizens, but they target different aspects of an immigrant’s life in the country.

The DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application, is also relevant. This form is used by individuals applying for an immigrant visa from outside the U.S. Like the I-134, the DS-260 requires information about the applicant's financial situation, but it is more comprehensive, covering various aspects of the applicant's background. Both forms are crucial in the immigration process, yet they operate at different stages and with different objectives.

The N-400, Application for Naturalization, is another document that shares a connection with the I-134. While the I-134 is used for visa applicants, the N-400 is for lawful permanent residents seeking to become U.S. citizens. Both forms require applicants to demonstrate their commitment to the U.S., but the N-400 focuses more on residency and civic knowledge rather than financial support.

Finally, the I-944, Declaration of Self-Sufficiency, is a document that emphasizes financial self-sufficiency, similar to the I-134. The I-944 requires applicants to provide information about their financial situation, health insurance, and other factors that could affect their ability to support themselves. While the I-134 is more about a sponsor's commitment to support, the I-944 is focused on the applicant’s own ability to be self-sufficient in the U.S.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the USCIS I-134 form, it is important to approach the process with care and attention to detail. This form is used to demonstrate that a person has the financial means to support a visa applicant. Here are some essential dos and don'ts to keep in mind.

  • Do provide accurate and truthful information.
  • Do ensure all sections of the form are completed.
  • Do include supporting documents that verify your financial situation.
  • Do sign and date the form before submission.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
  • Don't leave any questions unanswered.
  • Don't use outdated financial information.
  • Don't submit the form without proper documentation.
  • Don't forget to check for spelling and grammatical errors.
  • Don't rush through the process; take your time to review.

Misconceptions

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is often misunderstood. Below are some common misconceptions about this important document.

  • The I-134 form guarantees a visa approval. Many people believe that submitting the I-134 form will automatically lead to visa approval. In reality, while it is an important part of the application process, approval depends on various factors, including eligibility and the discretion of immigration officials.
  • Only U.S. citizens can complete the I-134 form. This is not true. Lawful permanent residents can also act as sponsors by filling out the I-134 form. However, they must meet specific income requirements to demonstrate their ability to support the applicant.
  • Submitting the I-134 form means the sponsor is financially responsible for the applicant. While the sponsor does need to show they can support the applicant, the I-134 is not a legally binding contract. It does not create a financial obligation in the same way that other forms of support might.
  • The I-134 form is only for family members. Many assume that this form is exclusively for family-based immigration. However, it can also be used for non-family members, such as individuals seeking humanitarian parole or other forms of temporary entry.
  • The I-134 form needs to be submitted with every visa application. This is a common misconception. The I-134 is typically required for certain types of visas, but not all. It is essential to check the specific requirements for the visa category being applied for.
  • Once submitted, the I-134 form cannot be updated or changed. This is incorrect. If circumstances change, such as a change in income or employment, the sponsor can submit a new I-134 form to reflect their current situation. Keeping this information up to date can be crucial for the applicant's case.

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

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the USCIS I-134 form, it's essential to keep a few key points in mind. This form is often required for individuals seeking to sponsor a non-immigrant visa applicant. Here are some important takeaways:

  • Understand the Purpose: The I-134 form serves as an affidavit of support, showing that the sponsor can financially support the visa applicant.
  • Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria to act as a sponsor. This includes being a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
  • Accurate Information: Provide complete and truthful information. Any discrepancies can lead to delays or denials in the application process.
  • Financial Evidence: Include supporting financial documents, such as tax returns and bank statements, to demonstrate your ability to support the applicant.
  • Signatures Matter: Both the sponsor and the applicant must sign the form. Missing signatures can result in rejection.
  • Submission Method: Know how to submit the form. Typically, it is submitted alongside the visa application, but verify specific instructions.
  • Keep Copies: Always keep copies of the completed form and any documents you submit. This can be helpful for future reference.
  • Follow Up: After submission, monitor the status of the application. Be prepared to provide additional information if requested.
  • Consult Resources: Utilize resources from USCIS or legal professionals if you have questions or need assistance. It's better to ask than to risk making a mistake.