I 134 Form

What is the I-134?

The I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a document used by individuals in the United States to demonstrate their financial ability to support a foreign national applying for a visa. This form is particularly important for those seeking to bring family members or other individuals to the U.S. under certain visa categories. By completing the I-134, the sponsor agrees to provide financial support to the applicant, ensuring they will not become a public charge while residing in the United States.

Key elements of the I-134

Understanding the key elements of the I-134 form is essential for both sponsors and applicants. The primary components include:

• Personal Information: This section requires details about the sponsor, including name, address, and employment information.
• Financial Information: Sponsors must provide information about their income, assets, and any dependents to demonstrate their financial stability.
• Affidavit Statement: The sponsor must sign a statement affirming their commitment to support the applicant financially.
• Supporting Documentation: Sponsors are often required to attach relevant financial documents, such as bank statements, tax returns, and pay stubs, to validate their claims.

Steps to complete the I-134

Completing the I-134 form involves several important steps to ensure accuracy and compliance. Follow these guidelines:

1. Gather Required Information: Collect all necessary personal and financial information before starting the form.
2. Fill Out the Form: Carefully complete each section of the I-134, ensuring all details are accurate and up to date.
3. Attach Supporting Documents: Include all required documentation that supports your financial claims, such as bank statements and tax returns.
4. Review and Sign: Thoroughly review the completed form and documents for accuracy before signing the affidavit statement.
5. Submit the Form: Follow the appropriate submission method, whether online, by mail, or in person, as required by the specific visa process.

Legal use of the I-134

The I-134 form must be used in accordance with U.S. immigration laws. It is legally binding, meaning that the sponsor is obligated to provide the stated financial support. Failure to fulfill this obligation could lead to legal consequences, including potential penalties for the sponsor. It is crucial for sponsors to understand their responsibilities and ensure they can meet the financial requirements before signing the form.

Required Documents

When submitting the I-134 form, sponsors must provide several supporting documents to validate their financial claims. Commonly required documents include:

• Recent bank statements
• Pay stubs from the last few months
• Federal tax returns for the past two years
• Proof of employment, such as an employment verification letter

How to obtain the I-134

The I-134 form can be obtained from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. It is available as a downloadable PDF, which can be printed and filled out manually or completed electronically. Ensure that you are using the most current version of the form to avoid any issues during the submission process.