Who can use Form I-134A?

Form I-134A, Certificate of Support, is a document used by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to demonstrate their financial ability to support a foreign national visiting the United States. The foreign national, often referred to as the beneficiary, may be coming for business, medical treatment, tourism, or to see family.

The purpose of the affidavit of support is to show that the sponsor has the financial means to support the beneficiary during his or her stay, and it will not become a government charge. This means that the sponsor must demonstrate that they have sufficient income or assets to support the beneficiary at 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their family size.

The sponsor must complete and sign Form I-134A and provide proof of income and assets, such as recent tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, and other financial documentation. The form must also be accompanied by a fee and submitted with the beneficiary visa application.

It is important to note that the sponsor's obligation to support the beneficiary remains in effect until the beneficiary becomes a U.S. citizen, permanently leaves the United States, or dies. The sponsor may be held financially liable if the beneficiary becomes a public charge while in the United States.