If you wish to sponsor relatives to enter the US, you must generally file an affidavit of support (also known as form i-864). The purpose of I-864EZ is to show that you have the financial means to support your relatives, so that they will not use social benefits or assistance while in the US.
To file an affidavit of support, you must first download the most recent version of form I-864 as well as the instructions for the form from the USCIS website. It is important to fill the form out accurately, honestly, and fully, following all the directions. Failure to do so can mean a denial of your application. Misrepresenting your income on I-864EZ or any affidavit of support can also be grounds for charges. If you do not think that your income is adequate to sponsor a relative, speak to a US immigration attorney to discuss alternatives for sponsorship.
When filling out form I-864 ,you will be asked for details about your address, occupation, income, and relationship to the applicant. You will also need to provide details about the applicant – including their name and address. You will also need to submit supporting information, such as a transcript issued by the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) or a photocopy of such a transcript of your income tax return for your most recent tax year. If you do not have this, you will need to submit an explanation. You may also need to submit 1099 tax forms or W-2 tax forms, depending on your situation. Whether you are employed or self-employed, this financial and tax information will help immigration authorities determine whether you have the income and means to support a relative in the US.
In order to bolster your application, you may also choose to send in a transcript issued by the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) or a photocopy of such a transcript of your income tax return for the past three years. If you think that such information will help you prove that you can support a relative, send it in.
It is important to note that you do not need to be wealthy to sponsor a relative. You must only show that your household income meets the guidelines outlined in Form I-864P, Poverty Guidelines. You can refer to this form to determine whether your household qualifies. As well, it is important to note that your affidavit of support can include income from your entire household. If you will be using the income from others in your household to show that you meet the Poverty Guidelines, however, you will also need to submit a Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member (USCIS Form I-864A) in addition to form I-864. You will need to submit a separate USCIS Form I-864A for every household member whose income you use to prove your ability to support your relatives.
