Is Form I-134 Mandatory?

Form I-134 is most often filed with the USCIS by a U. S. Sponsor on behalf of an immigrant. It is not mandatory. However, this form is recommended for increasing the chances of applicants for the B2 tourist visa by sponsoring them.

When is Form I-134 Required?

Form I-134 is also called Affidavit of Support. Usually, it is required to sponsor a visa applicant from another country. It can be a temporary visa or K1/K2 visa holder. The purpose of this form is to demonstrate that they will not become a “public charge” to the government.

There are many definitions of a public charge. The most recent one is a person who is going to ask the government for financial support.

What are the Benefits of Filing Form I-134?

Filing Form I-134 can improve the chances of visa approval. The visa officer will have more reasons to allow the applicant to stay in the US. The visa officer will understand that the applicant has financial support during their stay in the country. It demonstrates to the government that the visa applicant is sponsored and will be financially supported by someone in the United States.

It eliminates the risk of someone turning into a public charge or financial expense to the government of the U.S. Signing Form I-134 is under penalty of perjury under U.S. law. This is why you don't have to sign Form I-134 in front of a notary. 

What are the Risks of Not Filing Form I-134?

Not filing Form I-134 can lead to a visa application refusal. The visa officer will see that the applicant does not have financial support. That's why the visa office may decide to decline the application. The government doesn't want an immigrant to become a public charge (financial expense). That's the main reason for denial.