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Documents used along the form

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is often accompanied by several other forms and documents to ensure a complete application process. Below is a list of commonly used documents that may be required alongside the I-134.

  • Form I-130: This is the Petition for Alien Relative. It establishes a qualifying relationship between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and a foreign relative seeking immigration benefits.
  • Form I-864: Known as the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act, this form is used by sponsors to demonstrate their ability to financially support an immigrant.
  • Form I-797: This is the Notice of Action, which serves as a receipt or approval notice from USCIS. It confirms that a petition or application has been received or approved.
  • Tax Returns: Recent federal tax returns provide evidence of the sponsor's financial situation. Typically, the last three years of tax returns are requested.
  • Proof of Income: Pay stubs or employment letters may be required to verify the sponsor's current income level, ensuring they meet the necessary financial requirements.
  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Residency: A copy of the sponsor's birth certificate, passport, or green card is needed to confirm their status as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.

These documents play a crucial role in supporting the I-134 form and ensuring a smooth immigration process. It is essential to gather all necessary paperwork to avoid delays in processing.

Similar forms

The USCIS I-134 form, known as the Affidavit of Support, is similar to the I-864 form, which is also an Affidavit of Support but serves a different purpose. While the I-134 is often used for non-immigrant visa applicants, the I-864 is required for most family-based and some employment-based immigration cases. Both forms aim to demonstrate that the sponsor has sufficient financial resources to support the applicant, but the I-864 carries more legal weight and is binding, meaning the sponsor is financially responsible for the immigrant once they arrive in the U.S.

Another document akin to the I-134 is the I-944, Declaration of Self-Sufficiency. This form is used to evaluate an applicant's financial situation and potential reliance on public benefits. Like the I-134, the I-944 requires detailed information about income, assets, and liabilities. However, the I-944 focuses more on the applicant's personal financial status rather than the support offered by a sponsor. Both documents are essential in assessing the financial viability of an applicant, but they serve different roles in the immigration process.

The I-130 form, Petition for Alien Relative, is also comparable to the I-134 in that it involves family connections. The I-130 is used by U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to establish a relationship with a foreign relative who wishes to immigrate. While the I-134 is about financial support, the I-130 is about proving the familial relationship. Both forms are critical in the immigration process, as they help facilitate the entry of family members into the United States.

The DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application, shares similarities with the I-134 in that it is part of the visa application process. The DS-260 is used by individuals applying for immigrant visas and requires information about the applicant's background, including financial details. Like the I-134, it aims to ensure that the applicant will not become a public charge. However, the DS-260 is a comprehensive application that covers various aspects of the applicant’s life, while the I-134 is specifically focused on the sponsor's financial commitment.

Lastly, the Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, can be compared to the I-134 in the context of immigration sponsorship. The I-751 is used by individuals who obtained conditional residency through marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. It requires the couple to demonstrate that the marriage is genuine and not entered into for immigration purposes. While the I-134 addresses financial support, the I-751 focuses on the legitimacy of the relationship, both playing crucial roles in ensuring that immigrants are supported and that their relationships are valid.

Steps to Filling Out USCIS I-134

After you have gathered the necessary documents and information, you are ready to fill out the USCIS I-134 form. This form is important for those seeking to demonstrate financial support for visa applicants. Completing it accurately is crucial for a smooth process.

  1. Start with your personal information. Write your full name, mailing address, and contact details at the top of the form.
  2. Provide your date of birth and place of birth. This includes the city and state or country where you were born.
  3. Indicate your citizenship status. Clearly state whether you are a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or another status.
  4. Detail your employment information. Include your current employer’s name, address, and your job title.
  5. List your income. Be specific about your annual income and attach relevant documentation, such as tax returns or pay stubs.
  6. Include information about your assets. This can encompass bank statements, property ownership, and other financial resources.
  7. Provide information about the person you are sponsoring. Include their name, relationship to you, and relevant personal details.
  8. Sign and date the form. Ensure your signature is clear and matches your name as listed.
  9. Review the completed form for accuracy. Double-check all entries to avoid errors.
  10. Submit the form along with any required supporting documents. Follow the instructions for the submission process carefully.