I 864 2018

What is the I-864?

The I-864, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a legal document used by U.S. citizens and permanent residents to demonstrate financial responsibility for a foreign national applying for a visa or green card. This form is crucial in ensuring that the immigrant will not become a public charge, meaning they will not rely on government assistance for support. The sponsor must show that their income meets or exceeds 125% of the federal poverty guidelines based on household size. This form is typically required during the immigration process and must be submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Steps to complete the I-864

Completing the I-864 form requires careful attention to detail. Follow these steps to ensure accuracy:

• Download the latest version of the I-864 form from the USCIS website.
• Provide your personal information, including your name, address, and Social Security number.
• List your household members, including dependents and anyone else whose income is considered.
• Detail your income sources and attach supporting documents, such as tax returns and W-2 forms.
• Sign and date the form to certify that the information provided is true and complete.
• Review the form for any errors before submission.

Form Submission Methods

The I-864 can be submitted through various methods, depending on the specific instructions provided by USCIS. The common submission methods include:

• Online: If eligible, you may submit the form electronically through the USCIS website.
• By Mail: Print the completed form and send it to the designated USCIS address.
• In-Person: Some applicants may be required to submit the form in person during their interview.

Legal use of the I-864

The I-864 must be used in accordance with U.S. immigration laws. It is a legally binding contract between the sponsor and the U.S. government, ensuring that the immigrant has adequate financial support. The sponsor is responsible for the immigrant's financial needs until they become a U.S. citizen or can be credited with 40 quarters of work. Failure to fulfill this obligation can result in legal consequences, including potential lawsuits from the immigrant or the government.

Required Documents

When submitting the I-864, several supporting documents are necessary to validate the information provided. These documents typically include:

• Most recent tax returns (usually the last three years).
• W-2 forms or 1099 forms for reported income.
• Proof of current employment, such as pay stubs or an employment verification letter.
• Evidence of any additional income or assets that may support the sponsorship.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible to file the I-864, the sponsor must meet specific criteria. These include:

• Being a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident.
• Having an income that meets or exceeds the required threshold (125% of the federal poverty level).
• Agreeing to financially support the immigrant until they become a U.S. citizen or meet other conditions.