Blank USCIS I-134 PDF Form

Blank USCIS I-134 PDF Form

The USCIS I-134 form is a declaration of financial support used by individuals to demonstrate their ability to support a non-citizen applying for a visa. This form helps ensure that the applicant will not become a public charge in the United States. If you're ready to fill out the form, click the button below.

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 serves as a declaration from a sponsor, typically a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, who agrees to financially support a foreign national during their stay in the country. By completing the I-134, the sponsor demonstrates their ability to provide adequate financial resources, ensuring that the immigrant will not become a public charge. This document is often required for various visa categories, including tourist and student visas, and it helps immigration officials assess the economic viability of the applicant. The I-134 form requires detailed information about the sponsor’s income, assets, and household size, as well as the relationship between the sponsor and the applicant. Completing this form accurately is essential, as it can significantly impact the approval of the visa application. Understanding the requirements and implications of the I-134 form is vital for both sponsors and applicants navigating the complex landscape of U.S. immigration.

Document Sample

 

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

Page 2 of 10

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

Page 4 of 10

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

Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25

Page 5 of 10

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)

 

 

 

 

Form I-134 Edition 01/20/25

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 Specifics

Fact Name Description
Purpose The I-134 form is used to demonstrate financial support for a non-citizen applying for a visa or green card.
Who Uses It U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can complete the form to sponsor a foreign national.
Submission Location The form must be submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) along with the visa application.
Validity Period The I-134 form is generally valid for the duration of the visa application process, but it may need updates if circumstances change.
Supporting Documents Along with the I-134, sponsors must provide proof of income, assets, and employment.
Governing Law The I-134 is governed by federal immigration law, specifically the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
Processing Time Processing times can vary, but applicants should expect delays depending on the USCIS workload.
Common Mistakes Incomplete information or failure to provide required documentation can lead to delays or denials.

How to Use USCIS I-134

After you complete the USCIS I-134 form, you will need to gather the necessary supporting documents and submit everything to the appropriate USCIS office. Make sure to review the form for accuracy before sending it off.

  1. Download the USCIS I-134 form from the USCIS website.
  2. Begin with your personal information. Fill in your full name, address, and contact details in the designated sections.
  3. Provide your date of birth and place of birth. Ensure that this information is accurate.
  4. Indicate your citizenship status. Check the appropriate box to clarify whether you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident.
  5. Complete the section regarding your employment. Include your employer's name, address, and your job title.
  6. List your income and assets. Provide details about your annual income, bank accounts, and any other relevant financial information.
  7. Include information about any dependents. If applicable, list their names and relationships to you.
  8. Sign and date the form at the end. Your signature confirms that all information provided is true and complete.
  9. Gather supporting documents, such as proof of income and citizenship status, to accompany your form.
  10. Review the entire form and documents for accuracy before submission.
  11. Submit the completed form and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS office based on your location.

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 in the United States use to demonstrate their financial ability to support a foreign national who is applying for a visa or seeking to enter the U.S. This form is often required for non-immigrant visa applicants, such as tourists or students, to show that they will not become a public charge while in the country.

Who needs to file the I-134 form?

The I-134 form is typically filed by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who wish to sponsor a foreign national. This could include family members, friends, or individuals who have been invited to visit the U.S. for various purposes. It is important that the sponsor can demonstrate sufficient financial means to support the foreign national during their stay.

What information is required on the I-134 form?

When completing the I-134 form, the sponsor must provide detailed information, including:

  1. Personal information such as name, address, and date of birth.
  2. Details about the foreign national being sponsored, including their relationship to the sponsor.
  3. Financial information, including income, assets, and liabilities.
  4. Employment details, such as the sponsor's job title and employer information.

How does the I-134 form demonstrate financial support?

The I-134 form serves as a legal commitment from the sponsor to support the foreign national financially. By providing information about their income and assets, the sponsor shows that they have the means to cover the costs of living, healthcare, and other expenses for the duration of the foreign national's stay in the U.S. This helps assure immigration officials that the individual will not rely on public assistance.

Is there a fee to file the I-134 form?

There is no filing fee associated with the I-134 form itself. However, sponsors may incur costs related to gathering the necessary documentation or seeking legal advice. It is essential to ensure that the form is filled out accurately to avoid delays or issues with the visa application process.

How long does it take to process the I-134 form?

The processing time for the I-134 form can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the workload of the USCIS office handling the application. Generally, it is advisable to submit the form well in advance of any planned travel to allow sufficient time for processing.

Can the I-134 form be used for all types of visas?

The I-134 form is primarily used for non-immigrant visa applicants, such as tourists, students, or temporary workers. For immigrant visa applicants, a different form, the I-864, is typically required. It is important to check the specific requirements for the visa category being applied for to ensure the correct form is used.

What happens if the foreign national does not have a sponsor?

If a foreign national does not have a sponsor, it may be challenging to obtain a visa, especially for non-immigrant categories. In such cases, they may need to explore other visa options or seek assistance from organizations that help individuals with immigration matters. Having a sponsor can significantly enhance the chances of a successful visa application.

Can the I-134 form be revoked?

Yes, the I-134 form can be revoked by the sponsor at any time. However, it is important to understand that revoking the form may affect the foreign national’s visa status or ability to enter the U.S. If circumstances change, such as a loss of income or employment, the sponsor should consider the implications carefully before making a decision.

Where should the completed I-134 form be sent?

The completed I-134 form should be submitted to the U.S. embassy or consulate where the foreign national is applying for their visa. It is advisable to check the specific instructions provided by the embassy or consulate, as they may have additional requirements or preferred submission methods.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Many applicants fail to provide all the necessary details. Missing sections can lead to delays or denials. Ensure every question is answered fully.

  2. Incorrect Financial Information: Some individuals underestimate or overestimate their financial situation. This can affect the evaluation of their ability to support the applicant. Always use accurate and up-to-date figures.

  3. Failure to Sign: A common oversight is neglecting to sign the form. Without a signature, the application is considered incomplete. Double-check before submission.

  4. Not Providing Supporting Documents: Applicants often forget to include necessary documentation, such as proof of income or bank statements. These documents are crucial for verifying the information provided.

Documents used along the form

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is often accompanied by several other forms and documents that help to establish a sponsor's ability to support an immigrant financially. Below is a list of common forms and documents that may be used in conjunction with the I-134.

  • Form I-130: This is the Petition for Alien Relative, which establishes the relationship between the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and the immigrant. It is often required for family-based immigration.
  • Form I-864: This is the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act. Unlike the I-134, the I-864 is a legally binding document that requires the sponsor to support the immigrant financially until they become a U.S. citizen or can be credited with 40 quarters of work.
  • Form I-485: This is the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. It is used by individuals already in the U.S. who are seeking to become lawful permanent residents.
  • Form I-797: This is the Notice of Action, which serves as a receipt or approval notice from USCIS. It confirms that a petition or application has been received or approved.
  • Tax Returns: Copies of the sponsor’s federal income tax returns for the past three years may be required to demonstrate financial stability and the ability to support the immigrant.
  • Employment Verification Letter: This document, often provided by an employer, verifies the sponsor's employment status and income, further supporting their financial claims.
  • Bank Statements: Recent bank statements can provide evidence of the sponsor's financial resources, showcasing their ability to provide support.
  • Proof of Citizenship or Residency: Documents such as a birth certificate, passport, or green card are necessary to prove the sponsor's legal status in the U.S.

These documents collectively provide a comprehensive view of the sponsor's financial situation and relationship with the immigrant, ensuring that all necessary information is available for the USCIS review process. Proper preparation of these documents can significantly enhance the chances of a successful application.

Similar forms

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a document used by individuals who wish to sponsor a visa applicant. It serves as a declaration of financial support, ensuring that the applicant will not become a public charge. Similar to the I-134, the I-864 form, or the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act, is used in family-based immigration cases. The I-864 is more comprehensive and legally binding, often required for family members seeking permanent residency. While both forms demonstrate financial capability, the I-864 is specifically tied to the sponsor's income and assets, creating a stronger obligation to support the applicant financially.

Another document that shares similarities with the I-134 is the Form I-864EZ, a simplified version of the I-864. This form is designed for sponsors who meet certain criteria, such as being the only sponsor and having a straightforward financial situation. Like the I-134, the I-864EZ aims to prove that the sponsor can financially support the applicant. However, it is less complex and requires fewer supporting documents, making it more accessible for eligible sponsors.

The I-944 form, Declaration of Self-Sufficiency, is also relevant in the context of financial support. Although it primarily assesses the applicant's own financial situation, it complements the I-134 by providing a broader picture of the applicant's ability to support themselves in the U.S. The I-944 requires information about the applicant’s income, assets, and liabilities, while the I-134 focuses on the sponsor's financial capabilities. Together, they ensure that both the sponsor and the applicant can maintain financial stability.

Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is another important document in the immigration process. While it does not directly address financial support, it establishes the relationship between the sponsor and the applicant. The approval of the I-130 is often a prerequisite for the I-134, as it confirms that the sponsor is eligible to bring their relative to the U.S. The I-130 lays the foundation for the subsequent financial support documentation, making it a crucial part of the immigration journey.

The I-751 form, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, is relevant for individuals who obtained conditional residency through marriage. Similar to the I-134, it requires proof of a genuine relationship and may include financial documentation to demonstrate shared financial responsibilities. While the I-134 is focused on initial sponsorship, the I-751 addresses ongoing support and the legitimacy of the relationship, ensuring that the applicant continues to meet residency requirements.

The I-864W form, Intending Immigrant's Affidavit of Support Exemption, is used in specific cases where the sponsor is not required to submit a full affidavit of support. This form is similar to the I-134 in that it addresses financial support but is tailored for situations where the applicant has sufficient income or resources to support themselves. It streamlines the process for certain categories of applicants, reducing the burden on sponsors while still ensuring that financial considerations are taken into account.

The DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application, is another document that parallels the I-134 in the immigration process. This form is used by individuals applying for an immigrant visa from outside the U.S. It collects personal information, including financial details, to determine eligibility for a visa. While the I-134 focuses on the sponsor's commitment to support the applicant, the DS-260 assesses the applicant's overall qualifications, including their financial situation, ensuring a comprehensive review of their ability to thrive in the U.S.

Lastly, the Form I-864A, Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member, is closely related to the I-134. This form is used when a household member’s income is included to meet the financial requirements of the I-864. While the I-134 is solely about the sponsor's financial support, the I-864A allows additional support from household members, reinforcing the financial stability of the applicant. This collaboration ensures that the applicant has adequate resources to support themselves upon arrival in the U.S.

Dos and Don'ts

When completing the USCIS I-134 form, it is essential to approach the task with care and attention to detail. Here are some important dos and don'ts to consider:

  • Do read the instructions thoroughly before starting the form. Understanding the requirements will help ensure accuracy.
  • Do provide accurate and complete information. Every detail matters, as incomplete or incorrect information can lead to delays or denials.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank. If a question does not apply to you, write "N/A" instead of skipping it.
  • Don't forget to sign and date the form. An unsigned form will be considered incomplete and may be rejected.

Misconceptions

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

  1. It guarantees a visa approval.

    Many people believe that submitting the I-134 form will automatically lead to visa approval for the applicant. However, this form serves only as a declaration of financial support and does not guarantee that the visa will be granted.

  2. Only U.S. citizens can file the I-134.

    Some think that only U.S. citizens are eligible to submit the I-134 form. In reality, lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can also act as sponsors, provided they meet the necessary requirements.

  3. It is the same as the I-864 form.

    There is a common belief that the I-134 and the I-864 forms are interchangeable. While both forms are used to demonstrate financial support, the I-864 is a legally binding contract, whereas the I-134 is not.

  4. Filing the I-134 is enough to support an immigrant.

    Some individuals think that completing the I-134 form is sufficient for an immigrant's financial needs. However, it is important to remember that the form is just one part of the overall immigration process, and additional documentation may be required.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the USCIS I-134 form, there are several important points to keep in mind. Here are the key takeaways:

  1. Understand the Purpose: The I-134 form is used to demonstrate financial support for a non-citizen applying for a visa.
  2. Eligibility: Only U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can complete this form as sponsors.
  3. Complete All Sections: Ensure every section of the form is filled out completely and accurately to avoid delays.
  4. Provide Supporting Documents: Attach necessary documents that prove your financial capability, such as tax returns and pay stubs.
  5. Sign and Date: Don’t forget to sign and date the form. An unsigned form will be rejected.
  6. Keep Copies: Always keep a copy of the completed form and all supporting documents for your records.
  7. Submit on Time: Make sure to submit the form by the deadline specified in the visa application instructions.
  8. Be Honest: Provide truthful information. Misrepresentation can lead to serious consequences.
  9. Consult an Attorney: If unsure about any part of the process, consider consulting an immigration attorney for guidance.
  10. Follow Up: After submission, monitor the status of the application to ensure everything is processed smoothly.

By keeping these points in mind, you can navigate the I-134 form process more effectively and support your visa application successfully.