Download USCIS I-134 Template

1. Incomplete Information: Many people fail to provide all the required details. Every section must be filled out completely. Missing information can lead to delays or denials.

2. Incorrect Financial Information: Some applicants underestimate their financial support capabilities. Ensure that the income and asset information accurately reflects your current financial situation.

3. Wrong Signatures: It's crucial to sign the form correctly. If the form is not signed or if the signature does not match the name provided, it may be rejected.

4. Failure to Provide Supporting Documents: Many forget to include necessary documents, such as tax returns or bank statements. These documents are essential to verify the information provided on the form.

5. Not Updating Information: Some individuals submit outdated information. Always ensure that the details reflect your current situation, especially if there have been recent changes in employment or financial status.

• Purpose of the Form: The I-134 form is used to demonstrate financial support for individuals applying for a visa or adjustment of status in the U.S.
• Eligibility: The sponsor must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and must have sufficient income or assets to support the applicant.
• Documentation Required: Be prepared to provide proof of income, such as recent pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements.
• Completeness: Ensure that all sections of the form are filled out completely and accurately to avoid delays in processing.
• Submission: The completed form should be submitted along with the visa application or adjustment of status application to USCIS.
• Legal Obligations: By signing the form, the sponsor agrees to support the applicant financially and may be held responsible for any public benefits the applicant uses.

What is the USCIS I-134 form?

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a document used to demonstrate that a visa applicant has adequate financial support and will not become a public charge while in the United States. This form is often required for individuals applying for certain nonimmigrant visas, including visitor visas and some family-based visas.

Who needs to fill out the I-134 form?

The I-134 form must be completed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who is willing to sponsor a visa applicant. This sponsor must show that they have sufficient income or assets to support the applicant during their stay in the U.S.

What information is required on the I-134 form?

The form requires personal information about both the sponsor and the visa applicant. This includes details such as names, addresses, dates of birth, employment information, and financial details. The sponsor must also provide evidence of their income, such as tax returns or pay stubs.

How do I submit the I-134 form?

The I-134 form can be submitted in person during the visa interview or sent to the U.S. embassy or consulate where the visa applicant is applying. It's important to follow the specific instructions provided by the embassy or consulate, as submission methods may vary.

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

There is no fee for submitting the I-134 form itself. However, the visa application process may involve other fees, so it’s essential to check the requirements for the specific visa type being applied for.

Can I use the I-134 form for multiple applicants?

Yes, a single sponsor can use the I-134 form for multiple applicants, but each applicant must have their own separate form. The sponsor must provide financial information that supports all applicants adequately.

What happens if the sponsor’s financial situation changes?

If the sponsor's financial situation changes significantly after submitting the I-134 form, they should notify the U.S. embassy or consulate as soon as possible. Changes could affect the visa applicant’s eligibility for the visa.

Do I need to provide supporting documents with the I-134 form?

Yes, it's essential to include supporting documents with the I-134 form. These documents may include proof of income, bank statements, and tax returns. Providing this information helps to strengthen the application and demonstrates the sponsor's ability to support the applicant financially.

What should I do if my I-134 form is denied?

If the I-134 form is denied, the sponsor can seek to understand the reasons for the denial and address any issues. It may be helpful to consult with an immigration attorney to explore options for reapplying or appealing the decision.

How long is the I-134 form valid?

The I-134 form does not have a specific expiration date, but it should be filled out and submitted as close to the visa interview date as possible. The financial information provided should reflect the current situation to ensure its relevance and accuracy.

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, plays a crucial role in the immigration process. It is used by U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to demonstrate their financial ability to support a foreign national applying for a visa. Along with the I-134, several other forms and documents are often required to ensure a complete application. Below is a list of some of these important documents.

• Form I-130: This is the Petition for Alien Relative, which establishes the relationship between the U.S. citizen or permanent resident and the foreign national. It is often the first step in the immigration process.
• Form I-864: Known as the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act, this form is used when the foreign national is applying for a green card. It is more comprehensive than the I-134 and is required for family-based immigration.
• Form I-797: This is a Notice of Action, which serves as a receipt or approval notice from USCIS. It confirms that an application or petition has been received or approved.
• Form DS-260: This is the Online Immigrant Visa Application, which foreign nationals must complete when applying for an immigrant visa. It collects essential information about the applicant.
• Tax Returns: Recent tax returns are often required to demonstrate the financial stability of the sponsor. They provide proof of income and help establish the sponsor's ability to support the applicant.
• Pay Stubs: Recent pay stubs from the sponsor’s employer may be requested to show current income levels. This information supports the claim of financial capability.
• Bank Statements: Bank statements can also be submitted to provide evidence of available funds. They reflect the sponsor's financial resources and stability.
• Proof of Citizenship or Residency: Documents such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or green card are necessary to establish the sponsor's legal status in the United States.
• Employment Verification Letter: A letter from the sponsor’s employer confirming employment status and salary may be required. This further substantiates the sponsor's financial situation.
• Form I-864A: This is the Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member. It is used when a household member contributes to the sponsor's income, thereby supporting the I-864 form.

Each of these documents serves a specific purpose and helps to create a comprehensive application package. Ensuring that all required forms and supporting documents are included can significantly impact the success of the immigration process. Proper preparation and attention to detail are essential for both the sponsor and the applicant.