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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 come to the United States. This form serves as a declaration from a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, affirming their financial ability to support a foreign national during their stay in the country. By completing the I-134, the sponsor demonstrates their commitment to ensuring that the immigrant will not become a public charge, which means they will not rely on government assistance. The form requires the sponsor to provide detailed information about their income, assets, and overall financial situation, as well as information about the immigrant they intend to support. It is essential for sponsors to understand that submitting an I-134 is a serious commitment; they may be held accountable for the financial well-being of the immigrant. Additionally, the form is often used in conjunction with visa applications, particularly for non-immigrant visas, making it a vital component of the immigration landscape. Understanding the nuances of the I-134 can significantly impact the success of an immigration application and the future of the individuals involved.

Sample - USCIS I-134 Form

 

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

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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

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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

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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)

 

 

 

 

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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

Page 10 of 10

File Specs

Fact Name Description
Purpose The USCIS I-134 form is used as an Affidavit of Support, demonstrating that a visa applicant has financial support from a sponsor in the U.S.
Eligibility Any U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident can act as a sponsor by completing the I-134 form for a visa applicant.
Financial Requirements The sponsor must show that their income is at least 125% of the federal poverty level for their household size, ensuring they can support the visa applicant.
Submission The I-134 form is typically submitted to the U.S. consulate or embassy where the visa applicant is applying, not directly to USCIS.
State-Specific Laws While the I-134 form is governed by federal law, specific state laws may affect the sponsor's obligations, such as those related to financial support and liability.

USCIS I-134 - Usage Guidelines

Filling out the USCIS I-134 form is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail. Once you complete the form, you will need to submit it along with any required documents to support your application.

  1. Start by downloading the USCIS I-134 form from the official USCIS website.
  2. Read the instructions carefully to understand what information is needed.
  3. Fill in your personal information at the top of the form, including your name, address, and contact details.
  4. Provide information about your immigration status and any relevant details about your financial situation.
  5. List your household members and their information, including their relationship to you.
  6. Detail your income and assets, making sure to include all sources of financial support.
  7. Sign and date the form at the bottom to certify that the information you provided is accurate.
  8. Review the entire form to ensure everything is filled out correctly and completely.
  9. Prepare any additional documents that may be required to support your application.
  10. Submit the completed form and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS address.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the USCIS I-134 form?

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a document that individuals use to demonstrate their ability to financially support a visa applicant. This form is typically required for non-immigrant visa applications, ensuring that the applicant will not become a public charge while in the United States.

Who needs to submit the I-134 form?

The I-134 form must be submitted by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who agrees to support a foreign national applying for a non-immigrant visa. This includes individuals applying for tourist, student, or temporary work visas.

How do I fill out the I-134 form?

To fill out the I-134 form, provide accurate personal information about yourself and the visa applicant. Include details such as your income, assets, and any dependents. Be sure to sign and date the form before submission. It’s important to be thorough and truthful in your responses.

Where do I send the completed I-134 form?

The completed I-134 form should be submitted to the U.S. consulate or embassy where the visa applicant is applying. Check the specific instructions provided by that consulate or embassy, as they may have unique submission guidelines.

Is there a filing fee for the I-134 form?

No, there is no filing fee associated with the I-134 form. However, the visa applicant may have to pay other fees related to their visa application process.

How long is the I-134 form valid?

The I-134 form does not have a specific expiration date. However, it should be submitted close to the time of the visa application to ensure that the financial support information is current and relevant.

What happens if my I-134 form is denied?

If the I-134 form is denied, the visa applicant may not be able to proceed with their visa application. It's essential to review the reasons for the denial and address any issues before reapplying. Consulting with an immigration attorney may also be beneficial in such cases.

Common mistakes

  1. Incorrect Personal Information: Many applicants fail to provide accurate personal details. This includes names, addresses, and dates of birth. Even small typos can lead to significant delays or rejections.

  2. Inconsistent Financial Information: It's crucial to report your financial situation clearly. Some individuals misstate their income or fail to include all sources of financial support. Ensure that your financial documents match what you write on the form.

  3. Missing Required Signatures: A common oversight is forgetting to sign the form. All parties involved must sign where indicated. Without signatures, the application may be considered incomplete.

  4. Not Providing Supporting Documents: Many applicants neglect to include necessary supporting documents. This may include proof of income, bank statements, or tax returns. Always check the requirements and include all requested documents.

Documents used along the form

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is often accompanied by several other documents that help establish financial support and eligibility for immigration benefits. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that may be required alongside the I-134.

  • Form I-130: This form is used by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to sponsor a relative for immigration. It establishes the family relationship.
  • Form I-864: This is another Affidavit of Support form, typically used for family-based immigration. It requires the sponsor to demonstrate their ability to financially support the immigrant.
  • Tax Returns: Recent tax returns help verify the sponsor's income. They provide a clear picture of the sponsor's financial situation.
  • W-2 Forms: These forms show the income earned by the sponsor in a given year. They are often requested to complement tax returns.
  • Employment Verification Letter: This letter from the sponsor's employer confirms their job status, position, and salary. It supports the claim of financial stability.
  • Bank Statements: Recent bank statements can demonstrate the sponsor's financial resources. They provide evidence of available funds.
  • Proof of Citizenship or Residency: This includes documents like a birth certificate, passport, or green card. They establish the sponsor's legal status in the U.S.
  • Form I-94: This document shows the immigration status of the person seeking support. It is often required for verification purposes.
  • Affidavit of Support from Joint Sponsors: If the primary sponsor does not meet income requirements, additional sponsors may submit their own I-134 forms to provide extra financial backing.

These documents collectively support the I-134 form by providing necessary financial and personal information. Ensure all forms are filled out accurately and submitted as required to facilitate the immigration process.

Similar forms

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, shares similarities with the I-864 form. Both documents are designed to demonstrate financial support for individuals seeking to immigrate to the United States. While the I-134 is often used for non-immigrant visa applicants, the I-864 is required for those applying for immigrant visas. Each form requires the sponsor to provide evidence of their income and financial resources, ensuring that the applicant will not become a public charge once in the U.S.

Another document comparable to the I-134 is the I-130 form, which is the Petition for Alien Relative. This form is used by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to establish a relationship with a foreign relative who wishes to immigrate. While the I-134 focuses on financial support, the I-130 emphasizes familial relationships. Both forms are essential in the immigration process, often used in conjunction to secure a visa for a family member.

The I-601 form, which is the Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility, also bears some resemblance to the I-134. Both documents address issues related to immigration eligibility. The I-601 is submitted by individuals who have been deemed inadmissible to the U.S. for various reasons. In some cases, a sponsor may need to file an I-134 to demonstrate their ability to support the applicant financially, thus helping to strengthen the case for the waiver.

Lastly, the I-485 form, known as the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is another document that aligns with the I-134 in purpose. While the I-485 is used by individuals already in the U.S. to apply for permanent residency, the I-134 may be submitted alongside it to show that the applicant has adequate financial support. This connection highlights the importance of financial stability in the adjustment of immigration status, ensuring that applicants can support themselves without relying on government assistance.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the USCIS I-134 form, it’s important to follow certain guidelines to ensure your application is processed smoothly. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn’t do:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
  • Do provide accurate and truthful information throughout the application.
  • Do sign and date the form in the designated areas.
  • Do keep a copy of your completed form for your records.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank; if something doesn’t apply, write "N/A."
  • Don't use white-out or erase any information on the form.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing it for errors or inconsistencies.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can help ensure that your I-134 form is completed correctly and efficiently.

Misconceptions

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

  • The I-134 form guarantees visa approval. Many people believe that submitting the I-134 will automatically result in a visa being granted. However, the form is just one part of the application process and does not guarantee approval.
  • Only U.S. citizens can fill out the I-134. While U.S. citizens often complete this form, lawful permanent residents can also serve as sponsors. This means that green card holders have the ability to support a visa applicant.
  • The I-134 form is only for family members. This form is often associated with family-based immigration, but it can also be used for non-family members, such as friends or employees, who need financial support during their visa application process.
  • Submitting the I-134 means financial responsibility. Some individuals think that by signing the I-134, they are fully responsible for the visa applicant's financial needs. While it indicates a willingness to support, it does not create a legally binding obligation for all expenses.
  • There is no need to provide supporting documents. A common belief is that the I-134 form stands alone. In reality, it is crucial to include supporting documents, such as proof of income and assets, to strengthen the application.
  • The I-134 form is the same as the I-864 form. Some people confuse these two forms. The I-134 is used for non-immigrant visa applicants, while the I-864 is specifically for immigrant visa applicants and carries different requirements and obligations.

Understanding these misconceptions can help individuals navigate the immigration process more effectively. Proper knowledge of the I-134 form and its implications is essential for both sponsors and applicants.

Key takeaways

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is an important document for those seeking to sponsor a visa applicant. Here are some key takeaways regarding its use and completion:

  • Purpose: The I-134 form demonstrates that a visa applicant has adequate financial support and will not become a public charge in the United States.
  • Eligibility: Any U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident can complete this form to sponsor a visa applicant.
  • Financial Information: Sponsors must provide detailed financial information, including income, assets, and liabilities.
  • Supporting Documents: It is essential to attach supporting documents, such as tax returns and proof of income, to strengthen the application.
  • Signature Requirement: The form must be signed by the sponsor, affirming the accuracy of the information provided.
  • Submission: The completed I-134 form should be submitted to the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate as part of the visa application process.
  • Validity: The I-134 does not guarantee visa approval, but it is a critical component of the application.
  • Honesty is Crucial: Providing false information can lead to serious consequences, including visa denial or future immigration issues.
  • Multiple Sponsors: It is possible for a visa applicant to have more than one sponsor, which can strengthen their application.
  • Follow-Up: After submission, be prepared for any follow-up requests for additional information or documentation from USCIS.