An Affidavit Letter of Support is a document that helps demonstrate the authenticity of a marriage when applying to remove conditions on residency using Form I-751. It provides personal testimonies from friends, family, or acquaintances who can attest to the genuine nature of the marriage. This letter is particularly useful in supporting the claim that the marriage was entered into in good faith and not solely for immigration benefits.
Who can write an Affidavit Letter of Support?
Anyone who knows the couple and can provide credible information about their relationship can write an Affidavit Letter of Support. This may include:
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Friends
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Family members
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Colleagues
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Religious leaders
It is essential that the person writing the affidavit has firsthand knowledge of the couple's relationship and can provide specific examples to support their claims.
What should be included in the Affidavit Letter of Support?
The Affidavit Letter of Support should contain the following elements:
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The writer's full name, address, and contact information.
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A statement of the writer's relationship to the couple.
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A detailed account of the couple's relationship, including how they met, their shared experiences, and any significant milestones.
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A declaration that the writer believes the marriage is genuine and not entered into for immigration purposes.
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The writer's signature and the date of signing.
Including specific anecdotes and personal observations can strengthen the letter's impact.
How long should the Affidavit Letter of Support be?
While there is no strict length requirement, an effective Affidavit Letter of Support typically ranges from one to two pages. The letter should be concise yet detailed enough to provide a clear picture of the couple's relationship. Avoid unnecessary information that does not directly relate to the authenticity of the marriage.
Do Affidavit Letters of Support need to be notarized?
Notarization is not a requirement for Affidavit Letters of Support submitted with Form I-751. However, having the letter notarized can add an extra layer of credibility. If the writer chooses to have the letter notarized, they should sign it in front of a notary public, who will then affix their seal to the document.
Can multiple Affidavit Letters of Support be submitted?
Yes, multiple Affidavit Letters of Support can be submitted with the I-751 application. In fact, providing several letters from different individuals can strengthen the case by showing a broader network of support for the marriage. Each letter should be unique and provide different perspectives on the couple's relationship.