The USCIS 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 plays a crucial role in the immigration process, ensuring that visa applicants will not become a public charge. By completing the I-134, sponsors can affirm their commitment to providing necessary financial support to their beneficiaries.
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 of financial support, demonstrating that the applicant has sufficient backing to avoid becoming a public charge. It is typically required for non-immigrant visa applicants, such as those seeking tourist or student visas, as well as for certain immigrant visa applicants. By completing the I-134, sponsors affirm their willingness to provide financial assistance to the applicant during their stay in the U.S. This not only includes covering living expenses but also ensuring access to essential services. The form requires detailed information about the sponsor’s financial situation, including income, assets, and household size, which helps immigration officials assess the sponsor's ability to support the applicant. Additionally, the I-134 must be signed under penalty of perjury, emphasizing the importance of honesty and accuracy in the information provided. Understanding the implications and requirements of the I-134 form is essential for both sponsors and applicants navigating the complex landscape of U.S. immigration.
What is the USCIS I-134 form?
The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a document that U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can use to demonstrate their ability to financially support an individual applying for a visa. This form is often required when a foreign national seeks to enter the U.S. for a temporary stay, such as a visitor visa or a non-immigrant visa.
Who needs to submit the I-134 form?
The I-134 form must be submitted by a sponsor who is willing to financially support the visa applicant. This typically includes family members or friends of the applicant. The sponsor must show that they have sufficient income or assets to support the applicant during their stay in the U.S.
What information is required on the I-134 form?
The form requires personal information about both the sponsor and the applicant. This includes names, addresses, dates of birth, and financial details such as income, assets, and employment information. The sponsor must also provide proof of their financial capability, which may include tax returns, pay stubs, or bank statements.
Is there a fee to file the I-134 form?
There is no filing fee associated with the I-134 form. It is submitted directly to the U.S. embassy or consulate where the visa application is being processed. However, applicants should be aware that there may be other fees associated with the visa application process itself.
How long is the I-134 form valid?
The I-134 form does not have a specific expiration date. However, it is advisable to submit the form close to the time of the visa interview to ensure that the financial information is current and relevant. Changes in the sponsor’s financial situation may affect the validity of the form.
Can the I-134 form be used for all types of visas?
The I-134 form is primarily used for non-immigrant visas, such as tourist or student visas. It is not typically used for immigrant visas, where the I-864 form, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act, is required instead.
What happens if the sponsor cannot provide financial support?
If the sponsor is unable to provide adequate financial support, the visa application may be denied. The applicant may need to find another sponsor or provide additional evidence of financial resources to demonstrate their ability to support themselves during their stay in the U.S.
Can a joint sponsor be used with the I-134 form?
Yes, a joint sponsor can be used if the primary sponsor does not meet the income requirements. The joint sponsor must also complete an I-134 form and provide their own financial documentation to demonstrate their ability to support the applicant.
Where should the I-134 form be submitted?
The completed I-134 form should be submitted to the U.S. embassy or consulate where the visa applicant is applying for their visa. It is important to ensure that all required documentation is included to avoid delays in the application process.
The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is an important document for individuals looking to sponsor a foreign national. Here are some key takeaways to consider when filling out and using this form:
Understanding these key points can help ensure that the I-134 form is filled out correctly and used effectively in the sponsorship process.
The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is often misunderstood. Below are eight common misconceptions about this form, along with clarifications for each.
While the I-134 is a formal declaration of support, it is not a legally binding contract. It serves as a statement of intent to support a visa applicant financially, but it does not create enforceable obligations.
Permanent residents can also complete the I-134 form. However, they must demonstrate their ability to support the applicant financially.
Submitting the I-134 does not guarantee that a visa will be granted. The form is just one part of the overall application process.
Notarization is not required for the I-134 form. However, it is advisable to include supporting documentation to strengthen the application.
The I-134 can be used for various types of visa applicants, including friends and employees, not just family members.
While there are no set income requirements, the sponsor should demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support the applicant. This is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Submitting the I-134 is just the beginning. The sponsor may need to provide additional documentation or information during the visa application process.
The I-134 is primarily used for non-immigrant visa applications. Different forms may be required for immigrant visa petitions.
Affidavit of Support
USCIS
Department of Homeland Security
Form I-134
OMB No. 1615-0014
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Expires 02/28/2021
►START HERE - Type or print in black ink.
Part 1. Information About You (the Sponsor)
Your Full Name
1.a. Family Name
(Last Name)
1.b. Given Name
(First Name)
1.c. Middle Name
Other Names Used
List 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 7.
Additional Information.
2.a. Family Name
2.b. Given Name
2.c. Middle Name
Sponsor's Mailing Address
(USPS ZIP Code Lookup)
3.a. In Care Of Name
3.b. Street Number
and Name
3.c. Apt. Ste. Flr.
3.d. City or Town
3.e. State
3.f. ZIP Code
3.g. Province
3.h. Postal Code
3.i. Country
4.Are your mailing address and physical address the same?
Yes No
If you answered "No" to Item Number 4., provide your physical address in Item Numbers 5.a. - 5.h.
Sponsor's Physical Address
5.a. Street Number
5.b. Apt. Ste. Flr.
5.c. City or Town
5.d. State
5.e. ZIP Code
5.f. Province
5.g. Postal Code
5.h. Country
Other Information
6.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
7.a. Town or City of Birth
7.b. Country of Birth
8.Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any)
► A-
9.U.S. Social Security Number (if any)
►
10.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)
Citizenship or Residency or Status
If you are not a U.S. citizen based on your birth in the United States, or a non-citizen U.S. national based on your birth in American Samoa (including Swains Island), answer the following as appropriate:
11.a. I am a U.S. citizen through naturalization. My Certificate of Naturalization number is
11.b. I am a U.S. citizen through parent(s) or marriage. My Certificate of Citizenship number is
Form I-134 02/13/19
Page 1 of 8
(continued)
11.c.
I derived my U.S. citizenship by another method.
(Provide an explain in Part 7. Additional
Information.)
11.d.
I am a lawful permanent resident of the
United States. My A-Number is
11.e.
I am a lawfully admitted nonimmigrant. My
Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record Number is
12.
I am
years of age and have resided in the United
States since (Date) (mm/dd/yyyy)
Part 2. Information About the Beneficiary
This affidavit is executed on behalf of the following person:
2.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
3. Gender Male Female
4.A-Number (if any)
5.Country of Citizenship or Nationality
6.Marital Status
Single or Single, Never Married
Married
Divorced
Widowed
Legally Separated
Marriage Annulled
Other
7.Relationship to Sponsor
Beneficiary's Physical Address
8.a.
Street Number
Apt.
8.b.
Ste.
Flr.
8.c.
City or Town
8.d.
State
8.e.
ZIP Code
8.f.
Province
8.g.
Postal Code
8.h.
Country
Beneficiary's Spouse (accompanying or following to join beneficiary)
9.a. Family Name
9.b. Given Name
9.c. Middle Name
10.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
11.Gender Male Female
Beneficiary's Children
Child 1
12.a. Family Name
12.b. Given Name
12.c. Middle Name
13.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
14.Gender Male Female
Child 2
15.a. Family Name
15.b. Given Name
15.c. Middle Name
16.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
17. Gender Male Female
If you need additional space to complete this section, use the
space provided in Part 7. Additional Information.
Page 2 of 8
Part 3. Other Information About the Sponsor
7.a. I have life insurance in the sum of $
Employment Information
I am currently:
1.a. Employed as a/an
1.a.1. Name of Employer (if applicable)
1.b.
Self employed as a/an
Current Employer Address (if employed)
2.a. Street Number
2.b. Apt. Ste. Flr.
2.c. City or Town
2.d. State
2.e. ZIP Code
2.f. Province
2.g. Postal Code
2.h. Country
Income and Asset Information
3. My annual income is
$
(If self-employed, I have attached a copy of my last income tax return or report of commercial rating concern which I certify to be true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. See Instructions for nature of evidence of net worth to be submitted.)
4.Balance of all my savings and checking accounts in United States-based financial institutions
5.Value of my other personal property
6.Market value of my stocks and bonds
I have listed my stocks and bonds in Part 7. Additional Information (or attached a list of them), which I certify to be true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.
7.b. With a cash surrender value of
Real Estate Information
8.a. I own real estate valued at
8.b. I have mortgages or other debts amounting to
My real estate is located at:
9.a. Street Number
9.b. Apt. Ste. Flr.
9.c. City or Town
9.d. State
9.e. ZIP Code
Dependents' Information
The following persons are dependent upon me for support. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 7. Additional Information.
10.a. Family Name
10.b. Given Name
10.c. Middle Name
11.Relationship to Me:
12.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
13.This person is:
Wholly Dependent On Me For Support
Partially Dependent On Me For Support
14.a. Family Name
14.b. Given Name
14.c. Middle Name
15.Relationship to Me:
Page 3 of 8
17.This person is:
18.a. Family Name
18.b. Given Name
18.c. Middle Name
19.Relationship to Me:
20.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
21.This person is:
I have previously submitted affidavit(s) of support for the following person(s). (If none, write "None" in the space for name below.)
22.a. Family Name
22.b. Given Name
22.c. Middle Name
23.Date Submitted (mm/dd/yyyy)
24.a. Family Name
24.b. Given Name
24.c. Middle Name
25.Date Submitted (mm/dd/yyyy)
I have submitted a visa petition(s) to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on behalf of the following persons. (If none, write “None” in the space for name below.)
26.a. Family Name
26.b. Given Name
26.c. Middle Name
27.Relationship to Me:
28. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
29. Date of Filing (mm/dd/yyyy)
30.a. Family Name
30.b. Given Name
30.c. Middle Name
31.Relationship to Me:
32. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
33. Date of Filing (mm/dd/yyyy)
34.a. Family Name
34.b. Given Name
34.c. Middle Name
35.Relationship to Me:
36. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
37. Date of Filing (mm/dd/yyyy)
38.I intend do not intend to make specific contributions to the support of the person(s) named in Part 2.
(If you select "intend," indicate the exact nature and duration of the contributions you intend to make in Part 7. Additional Information. For example, if you intend to furnish room and board, state for how long and, if money, state the amount in U.S. dollars and whether it is to be given in a lump sum, weekly or monthly, and for how long.)
Page 4 of 8
Part 4. Sponsor's Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature
NOTE: Read the Penalties section of the Form I-134 Instructions before completing this part.
Sponsor's Statement
NOTE: Select the box for either Item Number 1.a. or 1.b. If applicable, select the box for Item Number 2.
1.a.
I can read and understand English, and I have read and
understand every question and instruction on this
affidavit and my answer to every question.
The interpreter named in Part 5. read to me every
question and instruction on this affidavit and my
answer to every question in
,
a language in which I am fluent and I understood
everything.
2.
At my request, the preparer named in Part 6.,
prepared this affidavit for me based only upon information I provided or authorized.
Sponsor's Contact Information
3.Sponsor's Daytime Telephone Number
4.Sponsor's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)
5.Sponsor's Email Address (if any)
Sponsor'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 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 affidavit, 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 affidavit;
2)I understood all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my affidavit; 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 affidavit, I understand all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my affidavit, and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct.
That this affidavit is made by me to assure the U.S. Government that the person named in Part 2. will not become a public charge in the United States.
That I am willing and able to receive, maintain, and support the person named in Part 2. I am ready and willing to deposit a bond, if necessary, to guarantee that such persons will not become a public charge during his or her stay in the United States, or to guarantee that the above named persons will maintain his or her nonimmigrant status, if admitted temporarily, and will depart prior to the expiration of his or her authorized stay in the United States.
That I understand that Form I-134 is an "undertaking" under section 213 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, and I may be sued if the persons named in Part 2. become a public charge after admission to the United States.
That I understand that Form I-134 may be made available to any Federal, State, or local agency that may receive an application from the persons named in Part 2. for Food Stamps, Supplemental Security Income, or Temporary Assistance to Needy Families.
That I understand that if the person named in Part 2. does apply for Food Stamps, Supplemental Security Income, or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, my own income and assets may be considered in deciding the person's application. How long my income and assets may be attributed to the persons named in Part 2. is determined under the statutes and rules governing each specific program.
I acknowledge that I have read the section entitled Sponsor and Beneficiary Liability in the Instructions for this affidavit, and am aware of my responsibilities as a sponsor under the Social Security Act, as amended, and the Food Stamp Act, as amended.
Sponsor's Signature
6.a. Sponsor's Signature
6.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)
Page 5 of 8
NOTE TO ALL SPONSORS: If you do not completely fill out this affidavit or fail to submit required documents listed in the Instructions, USCIS or the Department of State may deny your affidavit.
Part 5. Interpreter's Contact Information, Certification, and Signature
Provide the following information about the interpreter.
Interpreter's Full Name
1.a. Interpreter's Family Name (Last Name)
1.b. Interpreter's Given Name (First Name)
2.Interpreter's Business or Organization Name (if any)
Interpreter's Mailing Address
3.a. Street Number
3.b. Apt. Ste. Flr.
3.c. City or Town
3.d. State
3.e. ZIP Code
3.f. Province
3.g. Postal Code
3.h. Country
Interpreter's Certification
I certify, under penalty of perjury, that:
I am fluent in English and
which is the same language provided in Part 4., Item Number 1.b., and I have read to this sponsor in the identified language every question and instruction on this affidavit and his or her answer to every question. The sponsor informed me that he or she understands every instruction, question, and answer on the affidavit, including the Sponsor's Certification, and has verified the accuracy of every answer.
Interpreter's Signature
7.a. Interpreter's Signature
7.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)
Part 6. Contact Information, Statement, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Affidavit, if Other Than the Sponsor
Provide the following information about the preparer.
Preparer's Full Name
1.a. Preparer's Family Name (Last Name)
1.b. Preparer's Given Name (First Name)
2.Preparer's Business or Organization Name (if any)
Interpreter's Contact Information
4.Interpreter's Daytime Telephone Number
5.Interpreter's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)
6.Interpreter's Email Address (if any)
Preparer's Mailing Address
Page 6 of 8
Part 6. Contact Information, Statement, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Affidavit, if Other Than the
Sponsor (continued)
Preparer's Contact Information
4.Preparer's Daytime Telephone Number
5.Preparer's Fax Number
6.Preparer's Email Address (if any)
Preparer's Statement
7.a.
I am not an attorney or accredited representative but have prepared this affidavit on behalf of the sponsor and with the sponsor's consent.
7.b. I am an attorney or accredited representative and my representation of the sponsor in this case
extends does not extend beyond the preparation of this affidavit.
NOTE: If you are an attorney or accredited representative whose representation extends beyond preparation of this affidavit, you may be obliged to submit a completed Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, with this application.
Preparer's Certification
By my signature, I certify, under penalty of perjury, that I prepared this affidavit at the request of the sponsor. The sponsor then reviewed this completed affidavit and informed me that he or she understands all of the information contained in, and submitted with, his or her affidavit, including the Sponsor's Certification, and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct. I completed this affidavit based only on information that the sponsor provided to me or authorized me to obtain or use.
Preparer's Signature
8.a. Preparer's Signature
8.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)
Page 7 of 8
Part 7. Additional Information
If you need extra space to provide any additional information within this affidavit, 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 affidavit or attach a separate sheet of paper. Type or print your name and A-Number (if any) at the top of each sheet; type or print the Page Number, Part Number, and Item Number to which your answer refers; and sign and date each sheet.
5.a. Page Number 5.b. Part Number 5.c. Item Number
5.d.
Family Name
Given Name
1.c.
Middle Name
A-Number (if any)
6.a. Page Number 6.b. Part Number 6.c. Item Number
3.a.
Page Number 3.b. Part Number
3.c. Item Number
6.d.
3.d.
7.a. Page Number 7.b. Part Number 7.c. Item Number
4.a. Page Number 4.b. Part Number
4.c. Item Number
7.d.
4.d.
Page 8 of 8
I983 Sign in Ink - Students must take the time to understand the form’s requirements.
When entering into a loan agreement, it is crucial to utilize a reliable document such as a Promissory Note to outline the terms and conditions, ensuring that both parties have a clear understanding of their obligations.
4th Step Inventory - Participants are reminded that this inventory is not meant to invoke shame.
Death Certificate Affidavit - Supports the legal process of transferring asset ownership as per California law.
Inaccurate Personal Information: Many applicants provide incorrect names, addresses, or dates of birth. Double-check all personal details to ensure accuracy.
Failure to Sign the Form: Some forget to sign the I-134 form. A missing signature can lead to delays or rejections. Always remember to sign and date your application.
Insufficient Financial Evidence: Applicants often do not include enough documentation to prove their financial stability. Provide clear evidence, such as bank statements or employment letters, to support your claims.
Not Using the Latest Version: Using an outdated version of the form can cause issues. Always download the most recent version from the USCIS website before filling it out.
Ignoring Instructions: Some people overlook the instructions provided for the form. Read all guidelines carefully to avoid common pitfalls and ensure compliance with USCIS requirements.
When completing the USCIS I-134 form, it is important to follow specific guidelines to ensure the process goes smoothly. Below is a list of things to do and avoid when filling out this form.
The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is similar to the I-864 form, which is also used to demonstrate financial support for immigrants. While the I-134 is typically used for non-immigrant visa applicants, the I-864 is required for those seeking to become permanent residents. Both forms require the sponsor to provide proof of income and financial stability, ensuring that the applicant will not become a public charge. The key difference lies in the legal obligations; the I-864 creates a binding contract, while the I-134 does not impose the same level of commitment.
Another document comparable to the I-134 is the Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. This form establishes a qualifying relationship between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and a foreign relative. While the I-134 focuses on financial support, the I-130 is primarily about family ties. Both forms are essential in the immigration process but serve different purposes. The I-130 is the first step in bringing a relative to the U.S., while the I-134 can be used to support a visa application.
The I-912 form, Request for Fee Waiver, shares similarities with the I-134 in that both are used to assist individuals in financial need. The I-912 allows applicants to request a waiver for certain immigration fees based on their income or financial circumstances. While the I-134 demonstrates a sponsor's ability to support an immigrant financially, the I-912 directly addresses the applicant's financial situation and ability to pay for immigration services.
Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, is another document that relates to the I-134 in terms of financial implications. While the I-134 is about providing support, the I-765 allows individuals to apply for the right to work in the U.S. Both forms can be part of the immigration process for individuals seeking to establish their lives in the country. The I-134 can help demonstrate that the applicant has financial backing, which may be beneficial when applying for work authorization.
For those needing to confirm employment details, the process of filling out the comprehensive Employment Verification form is essential. This form verifies an individual’s work history and ensures the authenticity of employment records, playing a crucial role for both employers and employees in California.
Lastly, the Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, can be compared to the I-134 as both may be involved in the immigration journey. The I-131 allows individuals to apply for re-entry permits or refugee travel documents. While the I-134 focuses on financial support for those seeking entry into the U.S., the I-131 is concerned with the ability to travel outside the U.S. and return. Both forms play a crucial role in ensuring that applicants can navigate their immigration status effectively.