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Free USCIS I-134 PDF Template

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, serves as a document to show that visa applicants have sponsorship from someone financially stable in the United States. This form plays a crucial role in the application process for many types of visas, ensuring that the applicant will not rely on public funds during their stay. It acts as a promise from the sponsor to support the visa applicant.

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Outline

When individuals aspire to visit the United States, often they are not navigating this journey alone. Behind many of these journeys stands a sponsor, someone willing to vouch for the visitor's financial ability to cover their expenses while in the U.S. This is where the USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, becomes a critical piece of documentation. Filed by the sponsor, this form acts as a formal pledge to the U.S. government that the visitor will not become a public charge, which means they will not need to rely on government assistance during their stay. The obligations entailed by the form cover a wide range of potential expenses, including housing, food, and medical care. As such, completing and submitting the I-134 form involves a detailed process, requiring meticulous attention to the provisions of sponsorship, including financial thresholds the sponsor must meet and documentation of their ability to support the visitor. This form not only facilitates a smoother entry process for the visitor but also serves to protect the interests of U.S. taxpayers, ensuring that individuals visiting are financially accounted for during their stay.

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	Affidavit of Support	USCIS
	Department of Homeland Security	Form I-134
	Department of Homeland Security	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

(Last Name)

2.b. Given Name

(First 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

and Name

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

Part 1. Information About You (the Sponsor)

(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

► A-

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:

1.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

1.b. Given Name

(First Name)

1.c. Middle Name

2.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

3. Gender Male Female

4.A-Number (if any)

► A-

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
	and Name
	Apt.
8.b.	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
8.c.	City or Town




8.d.	State		8.e.	ZIP Code

8.f.	Province
8.f.	Province
8.g.	Postal Code


8.h.	Country
8.h.	Country

Beneficiary's Spouse (accompanying or following to join beneficiary)

9.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

9.b. Given Name

(First 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

(Last Name)

12.b. Given Name

(First Name)

12.c. Middle Name

13.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

14.Gender Male Female

Child 2

15.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

15.b. Given Name

(First 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.

Form I-134 02/13/19

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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

and Name

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

and Name

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

(Last Name)

10.b. Given Name

(First 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

(Last Name)

14.b. Given Name

(First Name)

14.c. Middle Name

15.Relationship to Me:

16.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

Form I-134 02/13/19

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Part 3. Other Information About the Sponsor

(continued)

17.This person is:

Wholly Dependent On Me For Support

Partially Dependent On Me For Support

18.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

18.b. Given Name

(First Name)

18.c. Middle Name

19.Relationship to Me:

20.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

21.This person is:

Wholly Dependent On Me For Support

Partially Dependent On Me For Support

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

(Last Name)

22.b. Given Name

(First Name)

22.c. Middle Name

23.Date Submitted (mm/dd/yyyy)

24.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

24.b. Given Name

(First 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

(Last Name)

26.b. Given Name

(First 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

(Last Name)

30.b. Given Name

(First 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

(Last Name)

34.b. Given Name

(First 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.)

Form I-134 02/13/19

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.
1.b.	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)

Form I-134 02/13/19

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

and Name

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

3.a. Street Number

and Name

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

Form I-134 02/13/19

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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)

Form I-134 02/13/19

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.

Your Full Name

1.a.

Family Name

(Last Name)

1.b.

Given Name

(First Name)

1.c.

Middle Name

A-Number (if any)

6.a. Page Number 6.b. Part Number 6.c. Item Number

► A-

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.a. Page Number 4.b. Part Number	4.c. Item Number

4.d.

Form I-134 02/13/19

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Document Attributes

Fact Name	Description
Purpose of Form I-134	The Form I-134, Affidavit of Support, is used to show that visa applicants have sponsorship and will not become public charges while in the United States. The sponsor demonstrates they have the financial resources to support the immigrant.
Who Needs to File It	This form is typically filed by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who are sponsoring a foreign national to visit the U.S. on a nonimmigrant visa. This includes visitors for business or pleasure, fiancé(e)s, and certain types of students.
Governing Law	The form is governed under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) by federal law. Unlike some other forms, the requirements for the I-134 are not influenced by the laws of individual states.
Validity Period	The affidavit of support is generally considered valid for one year after the date of signature. However, it's essential for the sponsor to ensure that their financial situation remains stable and supportive for the duration of the visitor's stay in the U.S.

How to Fill Out USCIS I-134

Completing the USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a critical step in ensuring a visitor can enter the U.S. with financial backing from a sponsor. This document is a testament of the sponsor's commitment to support the visitor during their stay. Accuracy and attention to detail are pivotal when filling out this form, as any mistakes can lead to delays or denials. Below is a straightforward guide to help you navigate through the process, ensuring that you provide all the necessary information clearly and correctly.

Begin by downloading the latest version of the USCIS I-134 form from the official website to ensure you are using the most up-to-date form.
Provide the sponsor's full name, including any middle names, exactly as it appears on legal documents.
Fill in your address, ensuring it matches the location you currently reside in. If you've recently moved, double-check that this address is updated in all relevant records.
Enter your date of birth, using the format MM/DD/YYYY, to avoid any confusion with other date formats.
Detail your place of birth, including the city, province or state, and country, providing a complete picture of your origins.
Specify your U.S. Citizenship or Immigration status by selecting the appropriate option that represents your current situation.
Disclose your employment information, including the employer's name, your position, and how long you've been employed there, to demonstrate financial stability.
List all persons you are supporting with this affidavit, ensuring to include their full names, their relationship to you, and their place of residence.
State your annual income, providing an honest figure that can be verified through tax returns or other financial documents should it be necessary.
Include details about any savings or assets you possess that further demonstrate your ability to support the visitor. This might include bank accounts, real estate, or investments.
Read the information regarding the intended means of support and sponsorship promises carefully, ensuring you understand the commitments you are making by signing this form.
Sign and date the form in the designated areas. If you're preparing this form on behalf of someone else, make sure the sponsor signs it, as authenticity is key. Electronic signatures are not accepted.

After completing the form, review it several times to ensure all data is accurate and matches the documentation you'll be submitting alongside it. A well-prepared form is the first step towards a successful application process. It's a testament to your commitment and responsibility, laying a solid foundation for the visitor's stay in the U.S. Remember, the completion of this form is not just a procedural step but a critical legal document that should be handled with the utmost care and precision.

More About USCIS I-134

What is the USCIS I-134 form?

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a document that a person fills out to show they can financially support a visa applicant during their time in the United States. It's often used by individuals applying for a nonimmigrant visa, such as a tourist or student visa. The person who fills out the form is called the sponsor, and they promise to support the visa applicant financially.
Who needs to submit the I-134 form?

Not everyone applying for a visa to the United States needs to submit an I-134 form. It's typically requested from those applying for a nonimmigrant visa who need to prove that they won't become a public charge while in the U.S. The consulate or embassy processing the visa application decides whether this form is necessary. A potential sponsor who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident might need to fill it out to support the applicant's visa application.
What information is required on the I-134 form?

The I-134 form asks for detailed information about the sponsor’s financial situation. This includes the sponsor's employment, annual income, and any sources of money they have. It also asks for details about the sponsor’s assets, such as bank accounts, property, and stocks. Furthermore, the form requires information on the people being supported by the sponsor, including the visa applicant and any dependents.
How can one submit the I-134 form?

The I-134 form is submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of the visa application process. It’s important to fill out the form accurately and completely, and then sign and date it. Currently, the form can be downloaded from the USCIS website, filled out, and then mailed along with any supporting documents to the address provided by the visa applicant's local U.S. embassy or consulate, or it may be submitted during the visa interview, if required.
Is there a fee to file the I-134 form?

No, there is no fee to file the I-134 form with the USCIS. It is one of the few forms related to immigration processes that do not require a submission fee. However, sponsors should be prepared for potential costs associated with gathering the necessary documentation to prove their financial stability.
What happens if the sponsor does not fulfill their obligations?

If the sponsor does not fulfill their financial obligations, there could be legal implications. Although the I-134 form is considered less legally binding than the I-864 Affidavit of Support used for immigrant visa applicants, the sponsor still makes a commitment to support the visa applicant. If they fail to provide the promised support, it could affect their ability to sponsor others in the future and may lead to legal consequences in certain situations.

Common mistakes

When it comes to navigating the complexities of immigration forms, filling out the USCIS I-134, Affidavit of Support, with precision is crucial. Applicants often stumble over common pitfalls that can delay the process, or worse, affect the outcome. Here are five frequent mistakes to be aware of:

Not updating personal information. It's easy to overlook changes in your personal situation, such as a new address or a change in employment. This form requires the most current information to ensure the USCIS can contact you when necessary and assess your application accurately.
Leaving sections blank. If a section does not apply to you, it's better to fill it in with "N/A" (Not Applicable) than to leave it empty. Blank fields can lead to unnecessary confusion and might cause your application to be delayed or rejected.
Errors in financial information. This is a common area for mistakes due to its complexity. Ensure all financial information is current and accurately reflects your situation. Misreporting assets, income, or liabilities can have significant implications.
Failing to sign or date the form. It sounds simple, but forgetting to sign or date the form is a mistake that can lead to immediate rejection. Double-check that all required signatures are in place before submission.
Not including required evidence. Applicants often misinterpret the evidence required to support their affidavit. Make sure to review the instructions carefully and include all necessary documents to substantiate your claims, such as bank statements or employment verification.

Remember, the key to a successful USCIS I-134 form lies in the details. Taking the time to carefully review and accurately complete your application can make a significant difference in your journey. Pay close attention to these common mistakes to improve your chances of a smooth and successful process.

Documents used along the form

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) I-134 form, commonly known as the Affidavit of Support Form, plays a critical role in ensuring that immigrants have financial support in the U.S. It's especially vital in visa applications, ensuring that the immigrant will not become a public charge. Along with the I-134 form, several other documents are frequently required to establish the authenticity of the information provided and to bolster the application. Below is a list of up to 10 other forms and documents that are often used in conjunction with the I-134 form, each with a brief description.

Passport - An essential travel document that proves the identity and nationality of the applicant.
Visa Application Form - The specific form for the type of visa being applied for, filled out with personal and travel details.
Birth Certificate - Provides official proof of age, identity, and nationality, crucial for accurate record-keeping and verification processes.
Employment Verification Letter - This letter from the sponsor's employer confirms their employment status and annual salary. It's a key piece of evidence showing the sponsor can financially support the immigrant.
Bank Statements - Recent statements that provide a snapshot of the sponsor's financial health, ensuring they have sufficient funds to support the immigrant.
Tax Returns - Often the last three years of tax returns are required to verify the sponsor's income level and financial stability.
Proof of Assets - Documents such as real estate deeds, stock certificates, and other investment records, showing the sponsor's ability to support the immigrant beyond income alone.
Photo Identification - Usually a driver's license or state ID that serves as a government-issued identification for the sponsor.
Marriage Certificate (if applicable) - For spouses sponsoring each other, this document proves the legal relationship between the sponsor and the beneficiary.
Divorce Decree (if applicable) - In cases of previous marriages, a divorce decree is necessary to prove that those marriages have been legally terminated.

Together, these documents form a comprehensive dossier that supports the USCIS I-134 form, facilitating a robust application process. Whether for visitor visas, student visas, or accompanying family members, the combination of these forms and documents helps the U.S. government ensure that immigrants have the required support without becoming burdens on public resources. Understanding each document's purpose and ensuring its proper completion can significantly impact the success of the immigration or visa application process.

Similar forms

USCIS Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA): Similar to the I-134, the I-864 is also a legally enforceable affidavit where the sponsor agrees to financially support the beneficiary, usually in the context of family-based immigration. The key difference lies in its applicability to permanent residency applications rather than temporary visits.
Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application): Although serving a different function as an application form for nonimmigrant visas, the DS-160 shares similarities with the I-134 in collecting detailed personal, educational, and financial information from applicants to assess their eligibility for a visa.
Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Electronic Application): This form is akin to the I-134 in its requirement for applicants seeking to immigrate to provide comprehensive personal details. However, it is specifically for those applying for immigrant visas from abroad, contrasting with the I-134’s focus on visitors.
Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization): The I-765 and I-134 are similar in that they both involve applications related to non-citizens. While the I-134 is for financial support, the I-765 specifically relates to the applicant's ability to work legally in the U.S.
Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)): This form is similar to the I-134 in its involvement in the K-visa process. It's used to petition for a non-citizen fiancé(e) to come to the U.S., whereupon the I-134 may be filed to demonstrate the petitioner’s ability to support the fiancé(e) financially.
Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status): While serving a different principal purpose, adjusting an individual's status to that of a permanent resident, the I-485 is linked with the I-864, which mirrors the I-134’s function in financial sponsorship for residency, not visitation.
Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): Essential for family-based immigration, the I-130 is used to establish a qualifying relationship between a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and a non-citizen relative. Like the I-134, it is a step in the process toward living in the U.S., though the I-134 focuses on temporary stays.

Dos and Don'ts

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, plays a crucial role in the immigration process, particularly for individuals visiting the U.S. and for certain types of visa applicants. It is a legal document used by a sponsor to demonstrate they have adequate means to support the visa applicant financially during their stay in the United States. When filling out this form, accuracy and clarity are paramount. Below are some essential do's and don'ts to keep in mind.

Do's

Read the instructions carefully before starting the form. Ensuring you fully understand each question and its requirements can help prevent mistakes.
Gather all necessary financial documentation in advance. This includes your most recent tax returns, employment letters, bank statements, and any other assets to prove your financial stability.
Fill out the form accurately and completely. Leaving sections incomplete or providing false information can lead to delays or denial of the application.
Sign and date the form before submission. An unsigned form is considered incomplete and will not be accepted by USCIS.

Don'ts

Do not guess on financial details. You should provide precise figures. Estimations can lead to inaccuracies and potentially affect the credibility of your affidavit.
Avoid submitting outdated financial information. Current financial data is crucial to demonstrate your ability to support the applicant during their stay.
Do not overlook additional documentation that can support your financial claims. This could include real estate properties, stocks, bonds, or proof of additional income.
Refrain from providing unnecessary information that is not relevant to the financial support aspect. Stick to the requirements of the form to ensure a smooth processing experience.

Misconceptions

The USCIS form I-134, officially known as the Affidavit of Support Form, is often misunderstood. Many people hold misconceptions about its purpose, who needs to file it, and the obligations it entails. It's crucial to clear up these misunderstandings to ensure that both the sponsor and the beneficiary fully grasp the form's implications.

It's Legally Binding for Decades: A common misconception is that by signing the I-134 form, the sponsor is legally bound to support the beneficiary for many years or even indefinitely. In reality, the I-134 is a less stringent form than its counterpart, the I-864, Affidavit of Support, used for immigrant visa applicants. The I-134 is typically used for nonimmigrant visa applications and indicates that the sponsor intends to support the visitor for the duration of their stay in the United States. This support usually does not extend beyond the visa period.
It Requires Demonstrating a Lifetime of Financial Support: Some people mistakenly believe that the sponsor must demonstrate the ability to support the beneficiary for a lifetime. However, the sponsor only needs to show sufficient income or assets to support the visitor during their stay in the United States. The sponsor is not expected to provide lifelong financial support.
It's Only for Family Members: Another common misconception is that the I-134 form can only be filled out by family members sponsoring a relative. In truth, any U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident can sponsor a visa applicant, including friends or even distant acquaintances, as long as they meet the financial requirements to support the intended visitor.
Sponsors are Automatically Responsible for All Medical Bills: Many people believe that by signing the I-134, the sponsor becomes responsible for all the beneficiary's medical expenses. While the sponsor does indicate their willingness to support the visitor, including healthcare, this does not necessarily mean they will be legally responsible for all medical bills. It's encouraged for visitors to have health insurance coverage for their stay.
It Guarantees Visa Approval: There is a misconception that filling out and submitting the I-134 form guarantees that the visa applicant will be approved. The truth is that the form is only one part of the visa application process. Visa approval depends on various factors, including the applicant's ties to their home country, the purpose of their trip, and their financial situation, among other considerations. The I-134 can help demonstrate financial support but does not ensure visa issuance.

Key takeaways

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, plays a critical role in the immigration process for those seeking to sponsor a visitor to the United States. This document serves as a pledge by the sponsor to support the visitor during their stay, thereby ensuring that the visitor does not become a public charge. When working with this form, there are several key takeaways to consider for a smooth and effective process.

Accuracy is paramount: Every piece of information provided on the USCIS I-134 form must be accurate and truthful. The U.S. government uses this information to assess the sponsor's financial capability and intention. Any discrepancies or inaccuracies can lead to delays, denials, or legal consequences for the sponsor.
Provide supporting documents: It is not enough to merely fill out the form; sponsors must also submit supporting documents. These documents typically include proof of income (such as tax returns, W-2 forms, or pay stubs), proof of citizenship or legal residency, and evidence of the relationship between the sponsor and the visitor. Without these documents, the form cannot be properly evaluated.
Understand the obligations: Completing the I-134 form constitutes a serious commitment on the part of the sponsor. The sponsor is asserting their financial responsibility for the visitor, including for any public benefits the visitor might receive. Sponsors should fully understand these obligations before signing the form to ensure they are prepared to fulfill them.
Consult with a professional if needed: Because of the form’s complexities and the significant responsibilities it entails, sponsors may benefit from consulting with an immigration attorney or a legal advisor. These professionals can provide invaluable guidance on navigating the process, completing the form accurately, and understanding the implications of sponsorship.

In conclusion, the USCIS I-134 form is a crucial document that requires careful attention to detail and a clear understanding of the responsibilities it entails. By ensuring accuracy, submitting the necessary supporting documents, understanding the obligations of sponsorship, and seeking professional advice when needed, sponsors can support their visitors’ U.S. journey effectively and responsibly.

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