Sponsors for Immigrant Visas

I have heard I have to have a "sponsor" to apply for an immigrant visa. What does this mean?

Every immigrant must prove that he or she is not inadmissible on public charge grounds. One way to do this is to have someone in the United States sign an affidavit of support promising to provide support and assistance to you if necessary. All family-based immigrants-including immediate relatives-family preference immigrants and orphans are required to have affidavits of support (Form I-864). In addition, employment-based immigrants who are coming to work for relatives or for companies where relatives of the immigrant own five percent or more of the company must have sponsors (Form I-140).

The sponsor must be a U.S. citizen, national or lawful permanent resident; more than 18 years old; and live in the United States, Washington, D.C., or a U.S. territory or possession.

Can I have more than one sponsor?

In some situations, more than one person can accept joint legal responsibility with the petitioner. A joint sponsor is not the petitioner for the sponsored immigrant, but must also meet the citizenship, residence and age requirements. Joint sponsors are allowed when the petitioner does not meet the income requirements or dies before all family members have immigrated. Each joint sponsor must meet the 125 percent of the poverty line income requirement for their household size.

I currently live and work in the United States on a valid green card. Does my permanent resident status allow me to sponsor other immigrants?

Yes. You must meet the income requirements on your own or obtain a joint sponsor.

I am applying for a green card through the diversity lottery. Do I need a sponsor?

You will need to file Form I-134 affidavit of support, instead of the Form I-864.

Are affidavits of support required for nonimmigrants?

Some students entering the United States may be required to have affidavits of support.

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