When applying for a U.S. visa, particularly a nonimmigrant visa or humanitarian parole, applicants may need to provide proof that they will not become a public charge in the United States. One of the most common ways to fulfill this requirement is through the I-134 Declaration of Financial Support form.
The I-134 form is used by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) sponsor to financially support an immigrant seeking entry into the U.S. This form helps prove that the applicant has sufficient financial backing and will not need public assistance.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the I-134 Declaration of Financial Support, including who needs it, how to fill it out, required documentation, common mistakes to avoid, and the approval process.
What Is the I-134 Declaration of Financial Support?
Definition
The I-134 Declaration of Financial Support is a legal document that a sponsor in the United States submits to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the Department of State (DOS) to show that they have the financial means to support an immigrant temporarily.
It is not legally binding, meaning the sponsor is not responsible for the immigrant after their stay ends, unlike the I-864 Affidavit of Support, which is used for permanent immigration cases.
Who Needs to File Form I-134?
The I-134 form is required in several situations, including:
1. Tourist Visa Applicants (B-1/B-2)
✔ If an applicant does not have sufficient personal financial resources, a U.S.-based sponsor can submit the I-134 form to provide financial backing.
2. K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa Applicants
✔ U.S. citizens sponsoring a foreign fiancé(e) for a K-1 visa must submit the I-134 form to show financial capability before the fiancé(e) enters the U.S.
✔ Once married, the sponsor will later file Form I-864 for permanent residency sponsorship.
3. Parole and Humanitarian Cases
✔ Used for humanitarian parole applications where an immigrant needs temporary entry into the U.S. for urgent reasons.
4. Certain Student and Exchange Visitors (F-1, J-1 Visas)
✔ Some student visa applicants may need the I-134 form if their financial sponsor is in the U.S. and covering their tuition, housing, and living expenses.
5. Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Special Visa Programs
✔ Certain immigrants under TPS, parole programs, or refugee status may require financial sponsorship through I-134.
Who Can Be a Sponsor for I-134?
A sponsor must be:
✔ A U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR).
✔ At least 18 years old.
✔ Residing physically in the United States.
✔ Financially capable of supporting the visa applicant.
The sponsor must provide proof of income and assets to demonstrate financial ability.
Financial Requirements for Sponsors
1. Minimum Income Requirements
The sponsor’s income should be at least 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines based on their household size.
✔ If the sponsor’s income is below the required amount, they can use assets (bank accounts, investments, real estate) to meet the requirement.
✔ A joint sponsor or household member can also help meet financial criteria.
2. Proof of Financial Stability
Sponsors must provide:
✔ Tax returns (IRS Form 1040) for the last 1-3 years.
✔ Recent pay stubs (last 3-6 months).
✔ Bank statements (to prove savings and financial assets).
✔ Employment verification letter (confirming salary and job stability).
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing Form I-134
Step 1: Download the Form
✔ The latest Form I-134 can be downloaded from the USCIS website.
✔ Use only the most recent version to avoid rejection.
Step 2: Complete the Sponsor’s Information
✔ Full legal name (as shown on passport or green card).
✔ U.S. address and contact details.
✔ Date and place of birth.
✔ Immigration status (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, etc.).
Step 3: Provide Financial Information
✔ Employer details (name, address, job title).
✔ Annual income (from tax returns and pay stubs).
✔ List of assets (bank accounts, property, investments).
✔ Liabilities or debts (mortgages, car loans, credit card debts).
Step 4: Identify the Beneficiary (Visa Applicant)
✔ Full name and date of birth of the immigrant applicant.
✔ Relationship to the sponsor (friend, fiancé(e), family member, etc.).
✔ Expected length of stay in the U.S..
Step 5: Declare Support Commitment
✔ The sponsor confirms financial responsibility for the applicant’s needs.
✔ Must state specific financial assistance (housing, food, medical expenses).
Step 6: Sign and Date the Form
✔ The sponsor must physically sign the form.
✔ Digital or unsigned forms will be rejected.
How to Submit the I-134 Form
✔ If required for a visa application, the form is submitted to the U.S. consulate or embassy where the applicant is applying.
✔ If required for humanitarian parole or TPS, it is submitted to USCIS or another designated office.
Supporting Documents to Include with I-134
For the Sponsor
✔ Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency (passport, green card).
✔ Employment verification letter (confirming position and salary).
✔ Recent tax returns (IRS Form 1040 and W-2/1099 forms).
✔ Bank statements showing current financial status.
✔ Ownership documents for assets (property, stocks, bonds, etc.).
For the Beneficiary (Applicant)
✔ Copy of passport bio page.
✔ Visa application confirmation receipt (for consular cases).
✔ Proof of relationship to sponsor (if applicable).
Common Reasons for I-134 Rejection and How to Avoid Them
❌ 1. Insufficient Financial Evidence
✔ Solution: Ensure income meets 100% of Federal Poverty Guidelines and provide additional assets if needed.
❌ 2. Missing or Incorrect Information
✔ Solution: Double-check the spelling of names, addresses, and income details before submitting.
❌ 3. Sponsor’s Income Below Requirements
✔ Solution: Add a joint sponsor or include household members’ income to strengthen financial backing.
❌ 4. Form Not Signed
✔ Solution: Always provide a wet signature (physical ink) on the form. Digital signatures are not accepted.
❌ 5. Expired or Incomplete Documents
✔ Solution: Ensure that all required financial and identity documents are up to date.
What Happens After Submitting Form I-134?
✔ The U.S. embassy or USCIS officer will review the I-134 form and supporting documents.
✔ If approved, the applicant may receive their visa or travel authorization.
✔ If additional documents are required, the sponsor will be notified.
Can I Use I-134 for Family-Based Green Cards?
❌ No, the I-134 form is not valid for family-based green cards.
✔ Sponsors for family-based green cards must submit Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) instead.
Conclusion
The I-134 Declaration of Financial Support is a critical document for nonimmigrant visa applicants who need financial sponsorship. By ensuring accurate documentation, meeting financial requirements, and properly filling out the form, sponsors can help increase the chances of visa approval for their beneficiaries.
For a smooth application process, always follow USCIS and consular guidelines, submit all required documents, and avoid common mistakes that could lead to rejection. Proper preparation ensures a successful sponsorship and a positive immigration outcome for the applicant.
