Homepage > Fill in a Valid USCIS I-134 Form

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The I-134 form is only for family members.

    This is not true. While many people use the I-134 form to support family members, it is also applicable for friends or other individuals seeking a visa. The form serves as an affidavit of support for anyone who needs financial backing to enter the U.S.

  • Misconception 2: Submitting the I-134 guarantees visa approval.

    Submitting the I-134 form does not guarantee that the visa will be granted. It is just one part of the application process. The final decision rests with the consular officer, who will consider various factors beyond financial support.

  • Misconception 3: Only U.S. citizens can fill out the I-134.

    This is incorrect. Both U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can complete the I-134 form. The key requirement is that the person providing support must have adequate income or assets to help the visa applicant.

  • Misconception 4: The I-134 form has no expiration date.

    This is misleading. While the I-134 form itself does not have a strict expiration date, it should be filled out close to the time of the visa interview. Providing outdated information may lead to complications in the application process.

Documents used along the form

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a crucial document for individuals seeking to sponsor a visa applicant. Along with this form, there are several other documents that can support the application process. Each of these documents plays a role in demonstrating the sponsor's ability to provide financial support and ensuring the applicant's eligibility. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that may accompany the I-134.

  • Form I-130: This is the Petition for Alien Relative. It establishes a qualifying relationship between the sponsor and the visa applicant. It is often filed to help family members immigrate to the United States.
  • Form I-864: Known as the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act, this form is used for family-based immigration cases. It shows that the sponsor has sufficient income or assets to support the immigrant and prevent them from becoming a public charge.
  • Tax Returns: Copies of the sponsor's federal income tax returns for the past three years are often required. These documents provide evidence of the sponsor's financial stability and ability to support the applicant.
  • Florida Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale: This document is crucial for recording the sale of a motor vehicle in Florida. For a seamless process in your vehicle's sale or purchase, ensure to fill out the Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale form correctly.
  • Pay Stubs: Recent pay stubs from the sponsor's employer may be requested. These stubs help verify the sponsor's current income and employment status.
  • Bank Statements: Bank statements from the sponsor's accounts can demonstrate financial resources. They provide a snapshot of the sponsor's savings and overall financial health.
  • Proof of Citizenship or Legal Residency: Documents such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card are needed to confirm the sponsor's status in the United States.

Gathering these documents can seem overwhelming, but each one serves a specific purpose in the immigration process. Having the right documentation helps ensure that the application is processed smoothly and increases the chances of a favorable outcome. Always double-check the requirements for the specific case, as they can vary based on individual circumstances.

Steps to Filling Out USCIS I-134

After gathering all necessary information, you can proceed to fill out the USCIS I-134 form. This form is essential for those who need to demonstrate financial support for an individual applying for a visa. Follow these steps to ensure accurate completion.

  1. Begin by downloading the USCIS I-134 form from the official USCIS website.
  2. Print the form or fill it out electronically if possible.
  3. In the top section, provide your full name, address, and contact information.
  4. Indicate your immigration status in the U.S. and provide your alien registration number, if applicable.
  5. Next, complete the section regarding your employment information, including your job title, employer's name, and annual income.
  6. List your assets, such as bank account balances, property, and other financial resources.
  7. In the following section, provide information about the person you are sponsoring, including their name, relationship to you, and current address.
  8. Complete the section regarding the sponsored person's immigration status and the visa they are applying for.
  9. Sign and date the form at the bottom, certifying that all information is accurate to the best of your knowledge.
  10. Review the completed form for any errors or missing information.
  11. Make a copy of the filled-out form for your records before submitting it.

Once the form is completed, you will need to submit it along with any required supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS address. Ensure you follow any specific instructions provided by USCIS for submission to avoid delays in processing.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Many individuals fail to provide all required information on the form. Leaving sections blank can lead to delays or denials.

  2. Incorrect Financial Details: Applicants often misstate their income or assets. Providing inaccurate financial information can undermine the purpose of the form.

  3. Failure to Sign: Some forget to sign the form. A signature is essential; without it, the application is considered invalid.

  4. Not Using the Latest Version: Submitting an outdated version of the form can result in rejection. Always check for the most current form on the USCIS website.

  5. Ignoring Instructions: The instructions provided by USCIS are crucial. Failing to follow them can lead to mistakes that affect the application’s outcome.

  6. Inconsistent Information: Discrepancies between the I-134 and other submitted documents can raise red flags. Ensure all information is consistent across forms.

  7. Neglecting Supporting Documents: Some applicants do not include necessary supporting documentation. This can weaken the application and lead to additional requests for information.

Get Clarifications on 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 used to demonstrate that a visa applicant has adequate financial support during their stay in the United States. It is typically required for individuals applying for nonimmigrant visas, such as tourist or student visas. By submitting this form, the sponsor agrees to support the visa applicant financially, ensuring they will not become a public charge.

Who needs to complete 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 the visa applicant. This sponsor must be able to provide proof of their income and financial stability. Common situations requiring the I-134 include:

  • Tourist visa applications (B-2 visa)
  • Student visa applications (F-1 visa)
  • Fiancé(e) visa applications (K-1 visa)

It's essential that the sponsor can demonstrate sufficient income or assets to support the applicant without relying on government assistance.

What information is required on the I-134 form?

The I-134 form requires detailed information about both the sponsor and the visa applicant. Key sections include:

  1. Personal Information: Names, addresses, and contact details of both the sponsor and the applicant.
  2. Financial Information: The sponsor must provide details about their income, employment, and assets, including tax returns and bank statements.
  3. Declaration of Support: The sponsor must affirm their commitment to financially support the applicant during their stay in the U.S.

All information must be accurate and truthful, as any discrepancies can lead to delays or denials in the visa application process.

How do I submit the I-134 form?

The completed I-134 form should be submitted along with the visa application to the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate. It is advisable to keep copies of the form and any supporting documents for your records. Ensure that all required documents, such as proof of income and identification, are included to avoid any processing delays. After submission, the visa applicant may be called for an interview, where the sponsor's financial support will be discussed further.