Fill Out Your USCIS I-134 Form

Guide to Using USCIS I-134

Once you have gathered the necessary information and documents, you can begin filling out the USCIS I-134 form. This process requires careful attention to detail, as accuracy is crucial for the successful submission of your application. Follow these steps to complete the form correctly.

1. Start by downloading the latest version of the USCIS I-134 form from the official USCIS website.
2. Begin with Part 1, providing your personal information, including your full name, address, and contact details.
3. In Part 2, indicate your immigration status. Clearly specify whether you are a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or other status.
4. Proceed to Part 3, where you will list the information about the person you are sponsoring. Include their name, date of birth, and country of origin.
5. In Part 4, provide information about your employment. Detail your employer's name, address, and your job title, along with your annual income.
6. Part 5 requires you to disclose your assets. List any bank accounts, properties, or investments you own, along with their values.
7. Complete Part 6 by providing information about your household size. Include everyone who lives with you and their relationship to you.
8. In Part 7, answer the questions about your financial obligations. Be honest and thorough in your responses.
9. Sign and date the form at the end to certify that all the information provided is true and correct.
10. Finally, review the completed form for accuracy and completeness before submitting it along with any required supporting documents.

After completing the form, you will need to submit it to the appropriate USCIS address based on the instructions provided for your specific situation. Ensure that you include any necessary fees and supporting documents to avoid delays in processing.

What is the USCIS I-134 form?

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 foreign national applying for a visa. This form helps ensure that the visa applicant will not become a public charge while in the U.S.

Who needs to fill out the I-134 form?

The I-134 form must be completed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who is willing to provide financial support to the visa applicant. This could be a family member, friend, or sponsor who can demonstrate sufficient income or assets.

When is the I-134 form required?

The I-134 form is typically required for certain non-immigrant visa applications, such as tourist or student visas. It may also be requested during the adjustment of status process for certain applicants. Always check the specific visa requirements to confirm if the I-134 is necessary.

How do I complete the I-134 form?

To complete the I-134 form, follow these steps:

1. Download the form from the USCIS website.
2. Fill out all required sections, providing accurate information about your finances and relationship to the applicant.
3. Sign and date the form.
4. Gather supporting documents, such as tax returns and proof of income.

What supporting documents do I need to submit with the I-134?

When submitting the I-134 form, include the following supporting documents:

• Most recent tax returns (Form 1040).
• W-2 forms or 1099 forms for the past year.
• Proof of current employment, such as a pay stub or employment letter.
• Bank statements to show available funds.

Where do I submit the I-134 form?

The I-134 form should be submitted to the U.S. embassy or consulate where the visa applicant is applying. Check the specific instructions on the embassy or consulate's website for submission guidelines and any additional requirements.

Is there a fee for filing the I-134 form?

No, there is no fee to file the I-134 form. However, other visa application fees may apply, depending on the type of visa being sought.

How long is the I-134 form valid?

The I-134 form does not have a specific expiration date. However, it is recommended to submit a current form along with the visa application. If the financial situation changes significantly, a new form may be necessary.

Can I use the I-134 form for multiple applicants?

Yes, you can use the I-134 form to support multiple applicants. However, each applicant must have a separate form submitted on their behalf, along with the required supporting documents.

What happens if I cannot provide financial support?

If you cannot provide adequate financial support, the visa applicant may need to find another sponsor or provide additional documentation to demonstrate their financial stability. The applicant's chances of obtaining a visa could be affected if they do not have sufficient support.

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, shares similarities with the I-864 form, which is another affidavit of support but is used in different contexts. The I-864 is a legally binding contract that requires sponsors to provide financial support to immigrants seeking permanent residency. While the I-134 is often used for temporary visas, such as tourist or student visas, the I-864 is specifically for family-based immigration and employment-based immigration. Both forms aim to ensure that the immigrant will not become a public charge, but the I-864 has stricter financial requirements and is enforceable by the government.

Another document comparable to the I-134 is the Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. This form is used by U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to establish a qualifying relationship with an immigrant. While the I-134 focuses on financial support, the I-130 is about proving familial connections. Both forms are essential in the immigration process, but they serve distinct purposes. The I-130 lays the groundwork for an immigrant's eligibility, while the I-134 is a pledge of financial responsibility during the immigrant's stay in the U.S.

The I-601 form, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility, also bears some resemblance to the I-134. The I-601 is used when an individual is deemed inadmissible to the U.S. due to certain legal grounds, such as criminal history or immigration violations. While the I-134 addresses financial support, the I-601 focuses on overcoming legal barriers to entry. Both forms are crucial in the immigration process, as they help individuals navigate complex legal requirements to achieve their immigration goals.

The I-485 form, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is another document that has a connection to the I-134. The I-485 is used by individuals already in the U.S. who wish to become lawful permanent residents. While the I-134 is often submitted to demonstrate financial support for temporary visa applicants, the I-485 requires evidence of eligibility for permanent residency, including the financial backing of a sponsor. Both forms play a role in ensuring that immigrants can sustain themselves while adjusting their status in the U.S.

For those navigating the complexities of rental agreements, it is essential to have reliable resources, such as the Illinois Templates PDF, which provide well-structured and legally sound lease agreement forms to ensure clarity and compliance for both landlords and tenants in Illinois.

The I-765 form, Application for Employment Authorization, is similar in that it addresses the ability of immigrants to support themselves financially. While the I-134 is a declaration of support from a sponsor, the I-765 allows eligible immigrants to apply for the right to work in the U.S. Both documents are essential for immigrants seeking to establish their lives in the country. The I-765 enables individuals to earn an income, while the I-134 provides a safety net during their initial period in the U.S.

Finally, the Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application, can also be viewed as related to the I-134. The DS-260 is used by individuals applying for immigrant visas from outside the U.S. and requires information about the applicant's financial situation and sponsor. Like the I-134, it aims to ensure that the applicant will not require public assistance. However, the DS-260 is more comprehensive, covering various aspects of the applicant's background and eligibility for an immigrant visa, while the I-134 specifically addresses financial support.

The USCIS I-134 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is often misunderstood. Here are some common misconceptions that people have about this important document:

• The I-134 is the same as the I-864. Many people confuse these two forms. While both serve as affidavits of support, the I-134 is typically used for non-immigrant visa applicants, while the I-864 is for those applying for a green card.
• Submitting the I-134 guarantees visa approval. The I-134 is a supporting document, but it does not guarantee that the visa will be granted. The final decision rests with the consular officer or USCIS.
• Only U.S. citizens can file the I-134. This is not true. Lawful permanent residents can also submit the I-134 as long as they meet the financial requirements.
• The I-134 has no financial requirements. In fact, the form requires the sponsor to demonstrate that they have enough income or assets to support the visa applicant. This is crucial for showing that the applicant will not become a public charge.
• Once filed, the I-134 cannot be revoked. Sponsors can withdraw their support by notifying USCIS or the consulate where the application is being processed. However, it’s important to consider the implications of doing so.
• The I-134 is only for family members. While many use the I-134 for family-based applications, it can also be used for non-family members, such as students or temporary workers.
• Filing the I-134 is a one-time commitment. Sponsors should understand that they may have ongoing obligations. If the visa is granted, they may be responsible for supporting the individual for a certain period.
• The I-134 form is simple and requires no supporting documents. In reality, the form requires various supporting documents, such as proof of income and assets, to substantiate the claims made by the sponsor.

Understanding these misconceptions can help clarify the role and requirements of the I-134 form in the visa application process.

When filling out the USCIS I-134 form, it's important to ensure accuracy and completeness. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn't do:

• Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
• Do provide accurate and truthful information.
• Do use black ink and write legibly.
• Do include all required supporting documents.

• Don't leave any fields blank unless instructed to do so.
• Don't submit the form without reviewing it for errors.
• Don't forget to sign and date the form.
• Don't use abbreviations or shorthand that may confuse the reviewer.

Filling out the USCIS I-134 form can be a daunting task. Many individuals make common mistakes that can delay their application process or even lead to a denial. Understanding these pitfalls can help ensure a smoother experience.

One frequent error is incomplete information. Applicants sometimes skip sections or fail to provide necessary details. Every question on the form is important, and leaving any part blank can raise red flags. Take your time to read each section carefully and ensure all relevant information is included.

Another mistake is incorrect financial documentation. The I-134 form requires proof of financial support. Providing outdated bank statements or tax returns can create confusion. Always ensure that your financial documents are current and accurately reflect your financial situation.

Many people also underestimate the importance of signatures. Failing to sign the form or not signing in the correct place can lead to rejection. Make sure that all required signatures are present and that they are dated appropriately.

Some applicants struggle with inconsistent information. Discrepancies between the I-134 form and other documents can raise suspicion. Ensure that all information matches across your application and supporting materials to avoid complications.

Another common issue is not providing enough evidence of support. Simply stating that you can support someone is not enough. Include detailed evidence, such as pay stubs or employment letters, to demonstrate your ability to provide financial assistance.

Many applicants also overlook the importance of clarity. Handwriting that is difficult to read can lead to misunderstandings. If filling out the form by hand, take your time and write legibly. Alternatively, consider typing the form if possible.

Some individuals fail to double-check for errors before submission. Typos or incorrect information can have serious consequences. Review your form thoroughly, and consider having someone else look it over for a fresh perspective.

Lastly, many applicants do not keep copies of their submissions. It’s essential to retain a copy of everything you send to USCIS. This practice not only helps you track your application but also serves as a reference in case any issues arise later.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can enhance your chances of a successful application. Taking the time to carefully complete the I-134 form is a crucial step in the process.