USCIS I-134 PDF Template

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is often misunderstood. Here are five common misconceptions about this form:

1. It guarantees a visa approval.

   Many believe that submitting the I-134 form will automatically lead to a visa being granted. In reality, the form is just one part of the application process. USCIS evaluates various factors before making a decision.

2. Only U.S. citizens can file the I-134.

   This is incorrect. Lawful permanent residents can also submit the I-134 form to support a visa applicant. However, their financial capacity may be scrutinized differently than that of a U.S. citizen.

3. The I-134 form is the same as the I-864.

   While both forms are affidavits of support, they serve different purposes. The I-864 is legally binding and used for family-based immigration, while the I-134 is not legally binding and is often used for non-immigrant visa applications.

4. Submitting the I-134 form means you must provide unlimited financial support.

   This is a misconception. The I-134 requires you to demonstrate your ability to support the visa applicant, but it does not obligate you to provide unlimited financial assistance. You need to show sufficient income or assets to cover their needs.

5. Once the I-134 is submitted, it cannot be changed.

   This is not true. If circumstances change, you can update the information on the I-134 form. However, it’s important to communicate any changes to USCIS as soon as possible.

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is an important document for individuals seeking to support a visa applicant. Below are key takeaways regarding the completion and use of this form.

• The form is used to demonstrate that a visa applicant has adequate financial support.
• It is crucial for sponsors to provide accurate and truthful information on the form.
• The sponsor must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
• The form requires detailed information about the sponsor’s income, assets, and household size.
• Supporting documentation, such as tax returns and pay stubs, should accompany the form.
• The I-134 form is not a legally binding contract, but it does establish a commitment to support the applicant.
• It is essential to sign and date the form to validate the information provided.
• Submit the form to the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate as part of the visa application process.
• Keep a copy of the completed form for personal records.
• Be prepared to answer questions about the sponsorship during the visa interview process.

When filling out the USCIS I-134 form, it’s essential to approach the task with care. Here’s a helpful list of things you should and shouldn’t do to ensure a smooth process.

• Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
• Do provide accurate and truthful information throughout the form.
• Do include all required documentation to support your application.
• Do double-check your entries for spelling and numerical errors.
• Do sign and date the form before submission.

• Don’t leave any required fields blank; if a question doesn’t apply, indicate that.
• Don’t use abbreviations or slang; clarity is crucial.
• Don’t submit photocopies of documents unless specifically requested.
• Don’t rush through the form; take your time to ensure accuracy.
• Don’t forget to keep a copy of the completed form for your records.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your I-134 form is completed correctly and submitted without unnecessary delays.

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a document used by individuals in the United States to demonstrate their ability to financially support a visa applicant. This form is particularly relevant for non-immigrant visa applicants. Similar to the I-134, the I-864 form, or the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act, is a legally binding contract that requires a sponsor to provide financial support to an immigrant. Both forms serve to ensure that the visa applicant will not become a public charge, but the I-864 is typically used for family-based immigration cases, whereas the I-134 is more common for temporary visas.

The I-130 form, Petition for Alien Relative, is another document that shares similarities with the I-134. While the I-134 focuses on financial support, the I-130 establishes a qualifying relationship between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and the foreign national. Both forms are crucial in the immigration process, but they serve different purposes. The I-130 lays the groundwork for family-based immigration, while the I-134 is often required later to prove financial capability.

In addition to the various immigration forms discussed, the concept of a Power of Attorney can also play an important role in managing financial responsibilities. A POA allows an individual to designate another person to handle financial matters, which can be beneficial during the immigration process, ensuring that financial obligations are met while the immigrant transitions to life in the U.S.

The I-751 form, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, also has a connection to the I-134. This form is used by conditional residents who are married to U.S. citizens to remove their conditional status. While the I-134 demonstrates financial support, the I-751 focuses on the legitimacy of the marriage. Both documents require evidence of financial stability, but they apply to different stages of the immigration process.

The I-765 form, Application for Employment Authorization, is another related document. This form allows certain non-citizens to apply for work permits. While the I-134 is about financial support from a sponsor, the I-765 enables applicants to gain independence through employment. Both forms contribute to the applicant's ability to support themselves, but they serve distinct roles in the immigration journey.

The DS-260 form, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application, is used by individuals applying for immigrant visas. Like the I-134, the DS-260 requires financial information to ensure that the applicant will not rely on government assistance. The DS-260 collects personal information and background details, while the I-134 focuses specifically on the financial aspect of sponsorship.

The N-400 form, Application for Naturalization, is relevant for those seeking to become U.S. citizens. While the I-134 is used for visa applications, the N-400 assesses an applicant's eligibility for citizenship, including their financial history. Both forms require evidence of good moral character, but they are used at different points in the immigration process.

The I-601 form, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility, is another document that can be compared to the I-134. This form is filed by individuals who are inadmissible to the U.S. and seek a waiver. While the I-134 demonstrates financial support for a visa applicant, the I-601 addresses issues that may prevent an individual from obtaining a visa, including financial factors. Both forms play important roles in overcoming barriers to immigration.

The I-212 form, Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission, is similar in that it addresses inadmissibility. This form is for individuals who have been previously removed from the U.S. and wish to return. Like the I-134, it requires the applicant to show that they have support and can sustain themselves financially. Both forms deal with issues of admissibility and financial stability, albeit in different contexts.

Finally, the G-325A form, Biographic Information, is another document that shares some similarities with the I-134. The G-325A collects personal and biographical information about the applicant. While the I-134 focuses on financial support, both forms require detailed information that helps immigration officials assess the applicant's situation. The G-325A is often used in conjunction with other forms to provide a complete picture of the applicant's background.