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The USCIS I-134 form, officially known as the Affidavit of Support, plays a crucial role in the immigration process for individuals seeking to come to the United States. This form is primarily used by U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who wish to sponsor a foreign national for a non-immigrant visa. By completing the I-134, sponsors demonstrate their financial ability to support the applicant during their stay in the U.S., ensuring that the individual will not become a public charge. Key aspects of the form include detailed information about the sponsor's income, assets, and household size, as well as the applicant's personal information. The I-134 also requires the sponsor to provide evidence of their financial stability, which may include tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements. Understanding the requirements and implications of this form is essential for both sponsors and applicants, as it directly impacts the visa approval process and the applicant's ability to enter the United States.
Similar forms
The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is similar to the I-864 form, which is another Affidavit of Support. Both documents serve to demonstrate that a sponsor can financially support an immigrant. However, the I-864 is typically used for permanent residency applications, while the I-134 is often required for temporary visas, such as tourist or student visas. The I-864 has more stringent income requirements and is legally binding, meaning the sponsor is responsible for the immigrant's financial support until they can stand on their own.
Another document that shares similarities with the I-134 is the I-601 form, which is a waiver of inadmissibility. Like the I-134, the I-601 can involve a sponsor demonstrating their ability to support an immigrant. However, the I-601 is specifically used when an individual is deemed inadmissible to the U.S. for certain reasons, and it requests a waiver of that inadmissibility. While the I-134 focuses on financial support, the I-601 addresses legal barriers to entry.
The I-130 form, or Petition for Alien Relative, is also comparable to the I-134. Both documents involve a sponsor who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. The I-130 is used to establish a family relationship, which is a crucial step in the immigration process. While the I-134 focuses on financial support, the I-130 is about proving the familial connection necessary for the immigration process to proceed.
The DS-260 form, the Online Immigrant Visa Application, shares some similarities with the I-134 as well. Both documents are part of the immigration process and require information about the applicant's background and intentions. The DS-260 is specifically for those applying for an immigrant visa from outside the U.S., while the I-134 is often submitted to demonstrate financial support for those seeking temporary entry. Both forms work together to ensure that the applicant meets the necessary requirements for entry into the U.S.
Lastly, the Form I-864EZ, a simplified version of the I-864, is another document that is akin to the I-134. This form is used by sponsors who meet specific criteria, making it easier to fill out and submit. Like the I-134, the I-864EZ is designed to show that the sponsor can financially support the immigrant. However, it is less complex and is intended for straightforward cases, whereas the I-134 is often used for temporary visa applicants and has its own set of requirements.
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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 individuals use to demonstrate their ability to financially support a visa applicant. This form is often required for certain non-immigrant visa categories, helping to ensure that the visa applicant will not become a public charge in the United States.
Who needs to fill out the I-134 form?
The I-134 form must be completed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who is willing to act as a financial sponsor for a visa applicant. This sponsor must show that they have sufficient income or financial resources to support the applicant during their stay in the U.S.
What information is required on the I-134 form?
The I-134 form asks for various pieces of information, including the sponsor's personal details, employment information, and financial resources. You'll need to provide details about your income, assets, and any dependents you may have. This information helps USCIS assess your ability to support the visa applicant.
Is the I-134 form legally binding?
While the I-134 form is a declaration of support, it is not a legally binding contract in the same way as other affidavits of support. However, it does carry significant weight. If the visa applicant receives public benefits while in the U.S., the sponsor may be held accountable, so it’s important to be honest and accurate when filling it out.
How do I submit the I-134 form?
You can submit the I-134 form either online or by mail, depending on the specific instructions provided by USCIS for the visa category you are applying for. Make sure to check the latest guidelines on the USCIS website to ensure you follow the correct submission process.
Can I submit the I-134 form for multiple applicants?
You can submit the I-134 form for multiple applicants, but each applicant will typically require their own separate form. Ensure that you provide accurate and individual information for each applicant to avoid any confusion during the review process.
What happens after I submit the I-134 form?
After submission, USCIS will review the I-134 form along with the visa application. They may request additional information or documentation to verify your financial capability. Once everything is reviewed, they will make a decision regarding the visa application based on the information provided.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the USCIS I-134 form, it’s important to be thorough and accurate. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn’t do to ensure a smooth process.
- Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
- Do provide accurate and truthful information throughout the form.
- Do use black ink and write legibly to avoid any confusion.
- Do double-check all entries for spelling and numerical accuracy.
- Don’t leave any required fields blank; if something doesn’t apply, indicate that appropriately.
- Don’t submit the form without signing it; an unsigned form is considered invalid.
- Don’t forget to keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
USCIS I-134 - Usage Steps
After obtaining the USCIS I-134 form, you will need to fill it out accurately to ensure a smooth process. Follow the steps below to complete the form correctly.
- Start by downloading the USCIS I-134 form from the USCIS website or obtain a physical copy.
- Begin with Part 1. Fill in your personal information, including your full name, address, and contact details.
- In Part 2, provide information about the person you are sponsoring. This includes their name, address, and relationship to you.
- Complete Part 3 by detailing your financial information. Include your income, assets, and any additional sources of financial support.
- In Part 4, answer questions regarding your employment status and provide your employer's information if applicable.
- Review Part 5, where you will need to sign and date the form. Make sure all information is accurate before signing.
- Attach any required supporting documents that verify your financial status and relationship to the person you are sponsoring.
- Finally, make a copy of the completed form and all attachments for your records before submitting it to USCIS.