Form I-134 serves as a critical document for individuals in the United States willing to financially sponsor visitors seeking temporary visas. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Form I-134, outlining the requirements, steps for filing, and important considerations for sponsors. Understanding the intricacies of this form is essential for sponsors looking to support their visitors during their stay in the U.S.
What Is USCIS Form I-134?
Form I-134, also known as the “Affidavit of Support,” is used to demonstrate to U.S. immigration authorities that a sponsor is willing and able to financially support a foreign national visiting the United States temporarily. This form is typically required as part of the visa application process for certain nonimmigrant visa categories, such as tourist visas (B-1/B-2), to ensure that the visitor will not become a public charge during their stay in the U.S.
Who Should File Form I-134?
Form I-134 should be filed by a sponsor who is willing to financially support a foreign national visiting the United States temporarily. The sponsor must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder) and must meet specific financial criteria to demonstrate their ability to support the visitor during their stay. Typically, sponsors file Form I-134 in support of family members, friends, or other individuals seeking temporary visas to travel to the United States for purposes such as tourism, visiting relatives, or attending events.
What Are the Requirements for a Form I-134 Sponsor?
Sponsoring a visitor through Form I-134 entails several key responsibilities for the sponsor to ensure adequate financial support and compliance with U.S. immigration requirements:
- Financial Support – The sponsor is responsible for providing financial support to the visitor during their stay in the United States, including covering expenses such as lodging, food, transportation, and other daily necessities.
- Completing Form I-134 – The sponsor must accurately complete and sign Form I-134, affirming their willingness and ability to financially support the visitor. This includes providing detailed information about their financial status, employment, and household size.
- Documentation – The sponsor must gather and submit supporting documentation to substantiate the information provided on Form I-134, such as recent bank statements, pay stubs, and tax returns, to demonstrate their financial ability to support the visitor.
- Communicating with Authorities – The sponsor may need to communicate with U.S. immigration authorities, consular officers, or other relevant agencies to clarify information or respond to inquiries related to the Form I-134 sponsorship.
- Obligations to Visitor – The sponsor has a moral and legal obligation to ensure the visitor’s well-being during their stay in the United States, including providing necessary support and assistance as needed.
- Understanding Legal Liability – The sponsor should understand that signing Form I-134 creates a legally binding contract with the U.S. government, indicating their commitment to financially support the visitor and reimburse any public benefits received by the visitor during their stay.
- Complying with Regulations – The sponsor must comply with all U.S. immigration regulations and requirements related to sponsoring a visitor through Form I-134, including maintaining financial stability and integrity throughout the sponsorship period.
By fulfilling these key responsibilities, the sponsor can effectively support the visitor’s temporary stay in the United States and ensure compliance with U.S. immigration laws and regulations.
What Types of Visas Require a Declaration of Financial Support?
Several types of visas require a declaration of financial support, ensuring that the visitor will not become a public charge during their temporary stay in the United States. These visas typically involve individuals who are not eligible to work or access public benefits during their visit. The following are examples of visa categories that commonly require a declaration of financial support:
- Tourist Visa (B-1/B-2) – Visitors traveling to the United States for tourism or pleasure often require a declaration of financial support to demonstrate their ability to cover travel expenses without relying on public assistance.
- Student Visa (F-1) – International students studying in the United States may need to provide evidence of financial support, including tuition, fees, and living expenses, to obtain an F-1 student visa.
- Exchange Visitor Visa (J-1) – Participants in exchange visitor programs, such as academic or cultural exchange programs, may be required to show proof of financial support to ensure they can support themselves during their exchange program.
- Temporary Worker Visa (H-1B, H-2B) – Individuals entering the United States for temporary employment may need to demonstrate financial support to cover living expenses and support themselves during their employment.
- Family-Based Immigrant Visa (IR and F categories) – Immigrant visa applicants sponsored by family members in the United States may need to provide evidence of financial support from their sponsor to demonstrate they will not become a public charge upon entry.
- Fiancé(e) Visa (K-1) – Individuals entering the United States to marry a U.S. citizen and apply for adjustment of status may need to show evidence of financial support from their U.S. citizen fiancé(e) to obtain a K-1 fiancé(e) visa.
In summary, visa categories that involve temporary stays or limited eligibility for public benefits typically require a declaration of financial support to ensure the visitor’s ability to support themselves financially during their stay in the United States.
Form I-134 Process and Timeline
The process and timeline for completing Form I-134, Declaration of Financial Support, can vary depending on individual circumstances and the specific visa application process. However, here is a general overview of the steps involved and the typical timeline for completing Form I-134:
Preparation and Gathering of Documents (1-2 weeks before visa application)
- The sponsor should gather all necessary documents to support the information provided on Form I-134, including recent bank statements, pay stubs, tax returns, and any other financial documents.
- The sponsor should also review the instructions for Form I-134 and ensure they understand the requirements and obligations associated with sponsoring the visitor.
Completion of Form I-134 (1-2 days before visa application)
- The sponsor fills out Form I-134 accurately and completely, providing detailed information about their financial status, employment, and household size.
- The sponsor signs and dates the form, affirming their willingness and ability to financially support the visitor during their stay in the United States.
Submission of Form I-134 (on the day of visa application)
- The sponsor provides the completed and signed Form I-134 to the visitor, who submits it along with their visa application to the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate.
- The sponsor may also need to provide supporting documentation to substantiate the information provided on Form I-134, such as recent bank statements or tax returns.
Review and Processing by U.S. Embassy or Consulate (variable timeline)
- The U.S. embassy or consulate reviews the visa application, including Form I-134 and supporting documents, as part of the overall visa adjudication process.
- The timeline for processing visa applications can vary depending on factors such as the embassy/consulate’s workload, the visa category, and the applicant’s individual circumstances.
Visa Interview and Decision (variable timeline)
- The applicant attends a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate, where they may be asked questions about their intended visit to the United States and their financial support.
- The consular officer considers the information provided on Form I-134 and other supporting documents as part of the visa adjudication process and makes a decision on the visa application.
Overall, the process and timeline for completing Form I-134 and obtaining a visa can vary depending on factors such as the visa category, the applicant’s individual circumstances, and the workload of the U.S. embassy or consulate. Applicants should plan ahead and allow sufficient time to complete and submit Form I-134 as part of their visa application process.
Form I-134 Solved
Form I-134 plays a crucial role in demonstrating financial support for visitors to the United States. By understanding its requirements and obligations, sponsors can facilitate the visa application process for their visitors, ensuring a smoother journey and fostering stronger relationships across borders.