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The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, plays a critical role in the U.S. immigration process, particularly for individuals seeking to enter the country on a non-immigrant visa. This form is primarily used to demonstrate that a visa applicant has sufficient financial support during their stay in the United States, ensuring they will not become a public charge. By completing the I-134, a sponsor, typically a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, affirms their commitment to support the applicant financially. The form requires detailed information about the sponsor's income, assets, and household size, providing a comprehensive picture of their financial situation. Additionally, the I-134 must be signed under penalty of perjury, emphasizing the importance of honesty and accuracy in the information provided. Understanding the nuances of this form is essential for both sponsors and applicants, as it can significantly impact the outcome of the visa application process.

Similar forms

  • Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support): This form is also used to demonstrate financial support for an immigrant. It is legally binding and requires sponsors to show they can support the immigrant financially, ensuring they do not become a public charge.
  • Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): While primarily a petition to establish a family relationship, it often requires proof of financial support. The I-130 can be accompanied by the I-134 to show that the sponsor can support the immigrant.
  • Form I-601 (Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility): This form may require evidence of financial support if the applicant needs to demonstrate that they will not rely on public benefits, similar to the I-134's intent.
  • Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status): When applying for permanent residency, applicants may need to submit evidence of financial support, akin to what is provided in the I-134.
  • Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Electronic Application): This form is used by individuals applying for immigrant visas. It often requires proof of financial support, similar to the I-134, to ensure the applicant will not become dependent on government assistance.
  • Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization): Although this form focuses on citizenship, it may require evidence of financial stability. Demonstrating the ability to support oneself is a common theme shared with the I-134.

Form Properties

Fact Name Description
Purpose The USCIS I-134 form is used as an Affidavit of Support, demonstrating that a sponsor can financially support a visa applicant.
Eligibility Any U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident can complete the I-134 form to support a non-immigrant visa applicant.
Submission Process The I-134 form must be submitted to the U.S. consulate or embassy where the visa application is being processed.
Governing Laws The use of the I-134 form is governed by U.S. immigration law, specifically under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

How to Use USCIS I-134

After obtaining the USCIS I-134 form, it is essential to fill it out accurately to ensure a smooth process. This form is used to demonstrate financial support for individuals applying for visas. Follow these steps to complete the form correctly.

  1. Begin by entering your full name in the designated fields. Make sure to include your last name, first name, and middle name, if applicable.
  2. Provide your current address. Include the street address, city, state, and ZIP code.
  3. Indicate your date of birth. Use the format MM/DD/YYYY.
  4. Fill in your place of birth, including the city and country.
  5. Provide your citizenship or immigration status. Select the appropriate option that applies to you.
  6. List your contact information, including your phone number and email address.
  7. Detail your employment information. Include the name of your employer, your job title, and your annual income.
  8. Complete the section regarding your assets. This includes bank account balances, property ownership, and any other financial resources.
  9. Sign and date the form. Ensure that your signature is clear and matches your name as listed on the form.
  10. Review the completed form for any errors or omissions. Double-check all entries to ensure accuracy.

Once the form is filled out, it will need to be submitted along with any required supporting documents. Ensure that all necessary paperwork is included to avoid delays in processing.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the USCIS I-134 form, keep the following key points in mind:

  • The I-134 form is a Declaration of Financial Support, used primarily for visa applicants.
  • Accurate information is crucial. Ensure all details are correct to avoid delays.
  • Provide proof of income and assets. This can include pay stubs, bank statements, and tax returns.
  • Sign and date the form. An unsigned form may lead to rejection.
  • Submit the form along with the visa application. It must be included in the application packet.
  • Be prepared for a potential interview. The applicant may need to discuss the financial support during the process.
  • Keep copies of everything submitted for your records. This can be helpful for future reference.
  • Consult with an immigration attorney if you have questions or need assistance. Professional guidance can ensure compliance with all requirements.

Documents used along the form

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is often accompanied by several other documents to provide a comprehensive view of the sponsor's financial situation and commitment. Below is a list of forms and documents commonly used alongside the I-134.

  • Form I-864: This is another Affidavit of Support, but it is more commonly used for family-based immigration cases. It requires a higher income threshold and is legally binding.
  • Form I-130: This form is used to establish a relationship between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and a foreign relative. It is often filed alongside the I-134 when sponsoring a family member.
  • Tax Returns: Recent tax returns help demonstrate the sponsor's financial stability. They provide proof of income and are a critical part of the financial assessment.
  • W-2 Forms: These forms show the annual wages and tax withheld for employees. They support the income claims made in the I-134 and tax returns.
  • Pay Stubs: Current pay stubs provide evidence of ongoing income. They help verify that the sponsor has a steady job and can support the beneficiary.
  • Bank Statements: Recent bank statements can show available funds and savings. They offer a snapshot of the sponsor's financial health.
  • Employment Verification Letter: This letter from an employer confirms the sponsor's job status, salary, and length of employment. It adds credibility to the financial claims.
  • Proof of Assets: Documents such as property deeds or investment statements can demonstrate additional financial resources. They may help meet the income requirements if necessary.

These documents together provide a clearer picture of the sponsor's ability to support the immigrant. It’s important to gather all necessary materials to ensure a smooth application process.

Discover More on This Form

What is the USCIS I-134 form?

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a document that individuals submit 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 is particularly relevant for non-immigrant visa applicants, such as those applying for tourist or student visas. By completing this form, the sponsor pledges to provide financial support to the applicant, ensuring that they will not become a public charge during their stay in the U.S.

Who needs to file the I-134 form?

The I-134 form must be filed by individuals who wish to sponsor a foreign national for a visa. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Friends or family members of the visa applicant
  • Employers who are sponsoring employees
  • Organizations or institutions that support an applicant, such as educational institutions

The sponsor must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and must demonstrate sufficient income or assets to support the applicant.

What information is required on the I-134 form?

When filling out the I-134 form, sponsors must provide detailed information, including:

  1. Personal information about the sponsor, such as name, address, and employment details.
  2. Information about the foreign national being sponsored, including their name, relationship to the sponsor, and visa type.
  3. Financial information, including income, assets, and any dependents the sponsor has.
  4. Supporting documentation, such as tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements, to substantiate the sponsor's financial claims.

All information must be accurate and up-to-date to ensure the application is processed smoothly.

How is the I-134 form submitted?

The I-134 form can be submitted in two primary ways. Sponsors may choose to file the form online through the USCIS website or send a paper version by mail. If submitting by mail, it is essential to send the form to the correct USCIS address, which can vary depending on the applicant's location and visa type. Additionally, the sponsor should retain a copy of the submitted form and all supporting documents for their records.

What happens after the I-134 form is submitted?

Once the I-134 form is submitted, USCIS will review the application to determine if the sponsor meets the financial requirements. If approved, the form will be forwarded to the relevant U.S. consulate or embassy, where the foreign national will present it during their visa interview. It is important to note that approval of the I-134 does not guarantee that the visa will be granted; it simply demonstrates the sponsor's commitment to support the applicant financially.