
Overview of Form I-134
Form I-134, also known as the “Declaration of Financial Support,” is a document completed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who commits to financially supporting a visitor or K-1 fiancé visa applicant while they are in the United States. This form is distinct from Form I-864, the Affidavit of Support, which is used to guarantee financial support for a green card applicant.
Demonstrating financial self-sufficiency is a crucial requirement for those wishing to enter the United States. U.S. immigration authorities rigorously assess whether an applicant might become a "public charge," which refers to someone likely to need government financial aid due to insufficient personal funds.
During the visa application, evidence of financial means is essential. Applicants who can present substantial bank balances or investments may satisfy this requirement straightforwardly. However, for those without significant savings or assets, Form I-134 provides a way to show that a U.S. sponsor will support them financially. Including this form helps assure immigration officials that the visitor will not burden the government financially during their stay.
Eligibility Criteria for Form I-134 Sponsors
The criteria for becoming a Form I-134 sponsor are specific:
- You must be a U.S. citizen or hold a green card.
- You are required to meet 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your household size, meaning you can only sponsor someone if your income is sufficient for your household size.
- You must be prepared to provide financial support to the individuals you are sponsoring if needed.
- Be ready to allow U.S. federal immigration officials to review your financial records and tax returns.
While the obligations under Form I-134 may remind you of those under Form I-864, which is used by family members sponsoring green card applicants, Form I-134 is specifically for sponsors of individuals on temporary visas.
Form I-134 is utilized by U.S. citizens or green card holders who commit to financially supporting someone visiting on a travel visa or a K1 and K2 visa. This arrangement shifts the financial proof requirement from the visa applicant to the sponsor. The sponsor must complete Form I-134, demonstrate their financial capability, and officially sign the document, ensuring they are legally committed to supporting the applicant during their stay in the United States. This process not only facilitates the applicant's visa approval but also strengthens the sponsorship system by ensuring sponsors are fully aware and capable of their responsibilities.
Completing the Form I-134 for Visa Sponsorship
Form I-134 does not require an interview or biometric data, but it does necessitate proof of your financial situation.
Typically, this form is one of the last steps in a visa applicant's process, often while they finalize their paperwork for the U.S. Embassy or consulate. Although it can be prepared anytime, it's advantageous to compile it earlier to ensure all required documents are ready.
As a sponsor, you will need to provide:
- Personal details including your address and Social Security number.
- Evidence of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status.
- Details about the visa applicant, referred to as the “beneficiary,” including their address, nationality, and marital status.
- Your employment and financial details, such as income and assets.
- Information about your dependents and marital status to verify compliance with the 100% threshold of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your household size.
- A signed commitment to support the form's beneficiaries.
- If assisted by an interpreter or a preparer, like a lawyer, they must also fill out certain sections of the form.
For financial proof, you should include photocopies of:
- A bank or financial institution officer's statement detailing account opening date, total deposits over the past year, and current balance.
- An employment statement on company letterhead specifying employment start date, nature of the job, salary, and employment status (temporary or permanent).
- Your most recent U.S. federal income tax return or a commercial rating concern report if self-employed.
- A list of bond serial numbers and denominations, along with the names of their owners, if applicable.
All documents must be in English or accompanied by a certified, complete, and accurate English translation, attested by the translator's competence in both languages.
After the visa application is submitted, your documents will be reviewed alongside the application. USCIS may reach out for additional evidence or clarifications if necessary, ensuring a thorough evaluation of the sponsorship's financial viability. This diligent scrutiny helps maintain the integrity of the visa process and ensures sponsors are adequately prepared to support their beneficiaries.
Key Differences Between Form I-134 and Form I-864
Notice
As of January 29, 2024, the USCIS will accept only the 11/09/2023 edition of Form I-134. It is crucial to verify the edition date on the USCIS instructions and form prior to submission.
Understanding Form I-134 and Form I-864
Form I-134 is committed to financially supporting individuals applying for temporary visas, such as travel visas or K-1 fiancé visas, to the United States. This form acts as a declaration of financial backing during the applicant's temporary stay.
In contrast, Form I-864 is used to ensure financial support for individuals seeking to obtain a green card for permanent residency in the United States. This form serves as a binding guarantee that the applicant will have sufficient financial support to avoid becoming a public charge.
Both forms play critical roles in the U.S. immigration system by ensuring that newcomers have adequate financial support. But they also accommodate different kinds of visas (temporary vs. permanent), which emphasizes how the U.S. immigration policy is customized for various immigration statuses. It's important for sponsors to understand these differences and ensure they use the correct form corresponding to the visa application they are supporting.