Form I 864 Form

What is the Form I-864?

The Form I-864, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a legal document required by U.S. immigration law. It is used to demonstrate that a sponsor has sufficient financial resources to support an immigrant applying for a green card. This form ensures that the sponsored immigrant will not become a public charge, meaning they will not rely on government assistance. The sponsor must provide evidence of their income and assets, which must meet or exceed the poverty guidelines established by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Steps to Complete the Form I-864

Completing the Form I-864 involves several key steps to ensure accuracy and compliance. First, gather all necessary financial documents, including tax returns, pay stubs, and proof of assets. Next, accurately fill out the form, providing personal information about both the sponsor and the immigrant. It is essential to calculate the household size correctly, as this affects the income requirements. After completing the form, review it for any errors or omissions before signing and dating it. Finally, submit the form along with the immigrant's application package to the appropriate U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office.

Required Documents for the Form I-864

When submitting the Form I-864, the sponsor must provide specific supporting documents. These typically include:

• Most recent tax returns (usually the last three years)
• W-2 forms or 1099 forms
• Proof of current employment, such as a recent pay stub
• Evidence of assets, if applicable, such as bank statements or property deeds

These documents help establish the sponsor's financial ability to support the immigrant and must be included with the Form I-864 when submitted.

Legal Use of the Form I-864

The Form I-864 is legally binding and serves as a contract between the sponsor and the U.S. government. By signing the form, the sponsor agrees to provide financial support to the immigrant, ensuring they will not need to rely on public benefits. Failure to uphold this agreement can result in legal consequences, including the possibility of the government seeking reimbursement for any public assistance the immigrant receives. Understanding the legal implications is crucial for sponsors to ensure compliance with immigration laws.

How to Obtain the Form I-864

The Form I-864 can be obtained directly from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. It is available in a downloadable PDF format, allowing sponsors to print and fill it out. Additionally, the form may be available at immigration offices or through legal assistance organizations. It is important to ensure that the most current version of the form is used, as updates may occur periodically.

Examples of Using the Form I-864

The Form I-864 is commonly used in various immigration scenarios, such as when a U.S. citizen sponsors a family member for a green card. For instance, a U.S. citizen may file the form to support their spouse, child, or parent. In cases where the primary sponsor does not meet the income requirements, a joint sponsor can also complete a separate Form I-864 to provide additional financial assurance. These examples highlight the form's critical role in the immigration process and its necessity for family reunification.