Updated on: October 8, 2025
Did you know that every family-based green card application requires a financial sponsor? Whether it’s the petitioner, a relative, or even a trusted friend, the U.S. government requires proof that the immigrant will not rely on public assistance. This is where Form I-864, the Affidavit of Support, comes in.
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys provide comprehensive guidance on preparing, reviewing, and submitting Form I-864 correctly — helping you avoid costly mistakes and delays in your green card process. This detailed guide explains what the affidavit means, who must file it, and how to complete it step-by-step.
What Is Form I-864, Affidavit of Support?
Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, is a mandatory document for most family-based immigration petitions. It serves as a legally enforceable contract showing that the financial sponsor has the income or assets to support the immigrant and prevent them from becoming dependent on U.S. public benefits.
Once signed and accepted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the sponsor becomes legally responsible for financially supporting the immigrant until certain conditions are met. This typically applies to U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents sponsoring their spouse or family member for permanent residency.
The financial obligation remains in effect until the sponsored immigrant:
- Becomes a U.S. citizen;
- Earns 40 quarters of work credit (about ten years of employment);
- Permanently leaves the United States and gives up their green card; or
- Passes away.
Financial Responsibility After Divorce
If you submitted Form I-864 for your spouse’s marriage-based green card, divorce does not terminate your financial responsibility. The sponsor’s obligation continues until one of the termination conditions listed above is met. Because this is a legally binding agreement, it’s crucial to understand the long-term commitment before signing.
Who Must File Form I-864?
The U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who filed Form I-130 for the immigrant must submit Form I-864. However, in certain cases, additional sponsors may be required:
Joint Sponsor
A joint sponsor is someone who agrees to share financial responsibility for the immigrant. The joint sponsor must independently meet the income requirement — typically 125% of the federal poverty guideline — and be either a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. This option is often used when the main sponsor’s income is insufficient.
Substitute Sponsor
If the original petitioner passes away, a substitute sponsor may step in. The substitute must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident;
- Be at least 18 years old and reside in the U.S.;
- Meet the income requirements under INA Section 213A; and
- Be related to the immigrant (spouse, parent, child, sibling, in-law, grandparent, etc.).
By signing the form, the substitute sponsor assumes all legal and financial responsibilities of the original sponsor.
Immigrant Categories That Require Form I-864
Immediate Relatives
Sponsors for spouses, parents, children, and siblings of U.S. citizens must always submit an Affidavit of Support, regardless of their income level. This ensures that the immigrant has adequate financial backing and will not become a public charge.
Family Preference Categories
Form I-864 is required for all family preference categories, including:
- First Preference: Unmarried adult sons or daughters (21 or older) of U.S. citizens
- Second Preference: Spouses and unmarried children of lawful permanent residents
- Third Preference: Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, along with their spouses and unmarried minor children
- Fourth Preference: Siblings of U.S. citizens, plus their spouses and unmarried minor children
Certain Employment-Based Cases
Some employment-based immigrants must also submit Form I-864 if a U.S. citizen or permanent resident relative either filed the petition or owns at least 5% of the sponsoring business.
Who Is Exempt from Filing Form I-864?
Not every immigrant needs to submit this form. You may be exempt if you can prove one of the following:
- You have worked, or can be credited with, 40 qualifying quarters of employment under the Social Security Act;
- You are the child of a U.S. citizen who, upon admission for permanent residence on or after February 27, 2001, would automatically acquire U.S. citizenship under the Child Citizenship Act of 2000.
I-864 Income Requirements for 2025: What Sponsors Need to Know
When applying for a family-based Green Card, the U.S. government requires sponsors to prove that they can financially support the immigrant relative. To qualify, the sponsor, joint sponsor, or substitute sponsor must meet a minimum income threshold based on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Poverty Guidelines. In most cases, this means showing income at or above 125% of the U.S. poverty level for your household size.
Your household size includes yourself, your dependents, any relatives living with you, and the immigrant you are sponsoring.
Below are the 125% HHS Poverty Guidelines for 2025 applicable to all states except Alaska and Hawaii.
Household Size | Minimum Income (125%) |
2 | $26,437 |
3 | $33,312 |
4 | $40,187 |
5 | $47,062 |
6 | $53,937 |
7 | $60,812 |
8 | $67,687 |
Each additional person | Add $6,875 |
Source: USCIS 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines for Affidavit of Support
2025 Poverty Guidelines for Alaska
Household Size | Minimum Income (125%) |
2 | $33,037 |
3 | $41,637 |
4 | $50,237 |
5 | $58,837 |
6 | $67,437 |
7 | $76,037 |
8 | $84,637 |
Each additional person | Add $6,875 |
2025 Poverty Guidelines for Hawaii
Household Size | Minimum Income (125%) |
2 | $30,400 |
3 | $38,312 |
4 | $46,225 |
5 | $54,137 |
6 | $62,050 |
7 | $69,962 |
8 | $77,875 |
Each additional person | Add $7,913 |
Exceptions for U.S. Military Sponsors
If you are on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard) and you are sponsoring your immediate family member, you only need to meet 100% of the poverty level for your household size. All other sponsors must meet the 125% income threshold.
Filing Form I-864 with Low or No Income
If your income is below the minimum requirement or you are unemployed, there are several ways to still qualify:
- Add a Joint Sponsor: A U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident can agree to share the financial responsibility by submitting their own I-864 form.
- Include Assets: You may count the value of your savings, property, investments, or other assets toward meeting the financial requirement.
- Use the Immigrant’s Assets or Income: If the immigrant’s income will continue after receiving permanent residence, or if their assets can be accessed in the U.S., those may also count toward eligibility.
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing Form I-864
Filling out Form I-864 correctly is critical. Errors can lead to long delays or outright rejection by USCIS. Below is a section-by-section overview:
Part 1: Basis for Filing the Affidavit of Support
Select the option that describes your situation—whether you are the petitioner, joint sponsor, or substitute sponsor. Active military sponsors and substitute sponsors (in cases where the petitioner has passed away) should select the appropriate boxes as indicated on the form.
Part 2: Information About the Sponsor
Provide your personal details, including name, mailing address, date of birth, and phone number. Be sure to list the United States as your country of domicile—sponsors living abroad must show that their stay outside the U.S. is temporary. U.S. military members stationed overseas are generally exempt from this rule.
Part 3: Information About the Principal Immigrant
Enter the immigrant’s name, address, A-Number, USCIS account number, and nationality.
Part 4: Information About Other Sponsored Immigrants
If you are sponsoring additional family members, include each person’s name and relationship. Do not list anyone not included in the original visa petition.
Part 5: Determining Household Size
Calculate your household size carefully, including yourself, your dependents, any sponsored immigrants, and other household members whose income will be combined using Form I-864A.
Part 6: Employment and Income Information
List your employment status, occupation, employer, and current annual income. If you are combining income from household members, include their details and ensure each person completes a Form I-864A. Be sure to attach copies of your federal tax returns or IRS transcripts for accuracy.
Part 7: Using Assets to Supplement Income
If your household income does not meet the threshold, list assets such as property, savings, or investments. The total asset value must meet or exceed the shortfall from the income requirement.
Parts 8–11: Signatures and Certifications
These sections cover the sponsor’s certification, interpreter details, preparer’s declaration, and space for additional information. Read carefully and sign to confirm the accuracy of your statements. Any interpreter or preparer involved must also sign and provide contact details.
Supporting Documents for Form I-864
When filing Form I-864, you must attach key documents, including:
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Residency: Such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or Green Card.
- Federal Income Tax Returns: Most recent year required; past three years optional but recommended.
- W-2s, 1099s, and Income Statements: To verify employment and financial stability.
- Form I-864A: Required for household members contributing income.
- Evidence of Assets: Including bank statements, property appraisals, or stock certificates.
Self-employed sponsors must include relevant IRS schedules (C, D, E, or F) to verify income. Providing complete and accurate documentation is essential to prevent processing delays.
If you are uncertain about the documentation, consult an immigration attorney at Green Card Link. Their expertise ensures your Affidavit of Support is complete, compliant, and properly filed.
I-864 Processing Times and Fees (2025)
The I-864 form is reviewed as part of the entire Green Card process, not separately. Processing time varies depending on USCIS backlogs, National Visa Center (NVC) workload, and consular processing delays. Accuracy and completeness are critical to avoid Requests for Evidence (RFEs).
Filing Fees:
- $0 if filed with USCIS for Adjustment of Status within the U.S.
- $120 if submitted to the NVC for consular processing abroad.
Validity of the Affidavit of Support
- Becomes a U.S. citizen, or
- Earns 40 quarters of qualifying work (approximately 10 years), or
- Permanently leaves the United States.
If the sponsor fails to meet income requirements or uses an outdated version of the form, the affidavit may be rejected.
Frequently Asked Questions About Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support)
Below are answers to the most common questions about Form I-864, an essential part of the U.S. family-based immigration process.
Who Must File Form I-864?
If you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident sponsoring a spouse or family member to live in the United States, you are required to file Form I-864, Affidavit of Support. Any additional co-sponsors assisting with financial sponsorship must complete Form I-864A.
How Much Does Form I-864 Cost?
The filing fee depends on your immigration process.
- If the applicant is adjusting status within the U.S., there is no fee for filing Form I-864 with USCIS.
- If the applicant is applying from abroad through consular processing, a $120 fee is required, payable to the National Visa Center (NVC).
What If I Don’t Meet the Income Requirements?
If your income falls below the minimum level required, you may still qualify by including the cash value of your assets, such as savings, property, bonds, or stocks. The asset value must be at least five times the difference between your income and the required minimum.
For example:
- The net value of your home (appraised value minus mortgage balance) or
- The net value of your vehicle (market value minus outstanding loan) may be used to meet the threshold.
Special rules apply:
- If you are sponsoring a spouse or child (age 18 or older) of a U.S. citizen, the required asset value is three times the difference.
- For orphans adopted by U.S. citizens, the required asset value must equal or exceed the difference between your income and 125% of the poverty guideline.
You can also include the income or assets of household members listed as dependents on your tax return (who have lived with you for at least six months) or even those of the relative being sponsored.
When Should I Submit Form I-864?
The timing depends on where the immigrant is applying from:
- Inside the U.S. (Adjustment of Status): File Form I-864 together with Form I-485 (Application to Adjust Status). Many sponsors file the I-130, I-485, and I-864 at the same time.
- Outside the U.S. (Consular Processing): File Form I-864 after the I-130 petition is approved and transferred to the NVC, which will contact you for submission and payment of the $120 fee.
What Can I Include in My Total Income Calculation?
You may include:
- Wages and salaries
- Retirement or pension benefits
- Alimony or child support
- Dividends and interest income
- Any other regular income sources
This total should match line 9 of your IRS Form 1040 from your latest tax return.
Can My Immigrant Relative’s Income Count Toward the Requirement?
Yes. The sponsored immigrant’s income may be included if it will continue after arriving in the U.S. You may also count their assets, even those outside the U.S., as long as they can be converted to cash within one year and legally transferred to the United States. The total asset value must be five times the difference between your income and the poverty guideline.
Can Foreign Income Count for the Income Requirement?
Generally, foreign income cannot be counted unless you can prove you will continue earning the same income after moving to the U.S. or have another qualifying U.S.-based job that meets the financial standard.
Can I Submit Form I-864 Electronically?
- For applicants abroad: You may submit Form I-864 electronically via the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) portal.
- For applicants in the U.S.: You must submit a physical paper form along with Form I-485 to a USCIS Lockbox facility by mail.
What Is a Joint Sponsor for Form I-864?
A joint sponsor is another individual willing to share the financial responsibility for the intending immigrant. They must meet 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines on their own but do not need to be related to the immigrant. The I-864 is a legally binding contract, so sponsors should understand the long-term commitment.
Who Counts as a Member of My Household?
Your household includes:
- Anyone claimed as a dependent on your tax return
- The immigrant(s) you are sponsoring
- Any children or dependents immigrating with them
What Are the I-864 Income Requirements?
Sponsors must have an income of at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their household size. Current income levels are published by USCIS and updated annually.
Is Free Housing Considered Income?
Yes. The value of free housing, a housing allowance, or other non-cash benefits can be included as income. Be prepared to provide documentation such as Form W-2 or Form 1099.
Does Divorce End the Sponsorship Obligation?
No. Divorce does not end your obligation. The responsibility remains until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, earns 40 qualifying quarters of work (approximately 10 years), leaves the U.S. permanently, or passes away.
What If I Change My Address After Becoming a Sponsor?
You are legally required to notify USCIS within 30 days of any address change. Failure to do so can result in fines or penalties.
What Is “Income Deeming”?
Income deeming occurs when government agencies consider your financial resources—and possibly your household members’—when determining a sponsored immigrant’s eligibility for certain means-tested benefits, such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Can Employment Abroad Count as U.S. Domicile?
Certain overseas employment can still qualify as a U.S. domicile, including temporary assignments with:
- The U.S. government or military
- A U.S. research institution recognized by the Secretary of Homeland Security
- A U.S. company engaged in foreign trade or commerce
- An international organization with U.S. treaty participation
- A religious organization with a bona fide U.S. presence
Does the I-864 Expire If My Relative’s Interview Is Delayed?
No. Form I-864 remains valid indefinitely once signed, even if the immigration process takes longer than expected.
Are Other Factors Considered in Case Approval?
Yes. Even if you meet the income threshold, USCIS or the consular officer may review additional factors such as age, health, skills, and employment prospects of both the sponsor and the immigrant to assess the likelihood of becoming a public charge.
What’s the Difference Between Form I-864 and Form I-864EZ?
Form I-864EZ is a simplified version available only if:
- You filed Form I-130 for a single relative,
- You are sponsoring only one immigrant, and
- Your qualifying income is entirely from your own salary or pension proven by IRS W-2s.
If any of these do not apply—such as joint sponsorship, multiple beneficiaries, or insufficient income—you must file Form I-864 instead.
Still Have Questions About Form I-864?
If you have additional questions or need guidance preparing your Form I-864, contact the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link for a personalized consultation.
Our experienced team will ensure your Affidavit of Support is accurate, complete, and compliant with all USCIS requirements.