I-864: Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA

Form I-864 is a legally binding contract in which the sponsor agrees to financially support the immigrant. It is required for most family-based and some employment-based green card applications.

Quick Facts

Official NameI-864 — Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA
Filing Fee$0
Processing TimeProcessed as part of the underlying petition (I-130 or I-485)
Premium ProcessingNot available

Purpose

Demonstrate that the sponsor has sufficient income or assets to support the immigrant at 125% above the federal poverty guidelines.

Common Case Statuses

  • Reviewed as part of I-485 or consular processing

Tips

  • The sponsor must demonstrate income at 125% of the federal poverty guidelines for their household size
  • Joint sponsors can be used if the primary sponsor does not meet income requirements
  • The obligation continues until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, earns 40 qualifying quarters of work, or permanently departs the U.S.
  • Tax returns from the most recent 3 years are typically required as evidence
  • Assets can supplement income — the value of assets must typically be 3x the shortfall (or 5x for siblings)

Related Forms

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For official information, visit the USCIS I-864 page.