I-864 Affidavit of Support – What’s Required Now?
If you’re sponsoring someone for a U.S. green card, completing the I-864 Affidavit of Support is an essential part of the immigration process. Designed to ensure that new immigrants will not become a public burden, this form is a binding financial contract between the sponsor and the U.S. government.
With new USCIS updates rolling out in 2025, the requirements for the I-864 form have changed slightly — making it even more critical to understand what’s needed. Whether you’re sponsoring a spouse, parent, or child, this guide will walk you through everything you must know about the I-864 Affidavit of Support in 2025.
What is the I-864 Affidavit of Support?
The I-864 Affidavit of Support is a legally enforceable contract where a U.S. citizen or green card holder promises to financially support the immigrant. It’s used to prove that the immigrant will not rely on government assistance.
Key Points:
- Required for most family-based and some employment-based green card cases.
- The sponsor is financially responsible for the immigrant until:
- The immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen.
- The immigrant earns 40 quarters of work (about 10 years).
- The immigrant dies or permanently leaves the U.S.
Important: If the sponsored immigrant receives public benefits, the government can sue the sponsor for reimbursement.
Who Must Submit the I-864?
Typically, the following individuals must submit Form I-864:
- U.S. citizens sponsoring family members (spouses, children, parents).
- Green card holders sponsoring family members (limited categories).
- Some employer sponsors (only when the employee is related to them).
Situations Requiring a Joint Sponsor
If the main sponsor’s income isn’t enough, a joint sponsor can file a separate I-864.
Note: A joint sponsor must also be a U.S. citizen or green card holder and meet income requirements independently.
2025 Updates to the I-864 Affidavit of Support
USCIS made several changes in 2025 to enhance the form’s clarity and tighten financial standards:
1. Updated Income Thresholds
- The sponsor’s income must be at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- New poverty guidelines are slightly higher due to inflation.
Example:
For a household of two (sponsor + intending immigrant), the minimum income is approximately $26,500.
2. Digital Filing and E-Signatures
- Sponsors can now submit the I-864 electronically via the USCIS online portal.
- Digital signatures are accepted if submitting online.
3. Enhanced Asset Documentation
- If relying on assets, sponsors must provide more detailed proof, such as:
- Bank statements from the last 12 months.
- Proof of ownership and value for properties.
4. Public Charge Considerations
- The form now asks additional questions regarding the sponsor’s receipt of public benefits to assess credibility.
- Sponsors must disclose participation in certain federal aid programs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the I-864 Affidavit of Support
Here’s a detailed look at the process for completing Form I-864:
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
You’ll need:
✅ Most recent federal tax return (Form 1040)
✅ W-2s or 1099s from the most recent year
✅ Employment verification letter
✅ Pay stubs from the last 6 months
✅ Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residence
✅ Evidence of assets (if needed)
Step 2: Calculate Your Household Size
Household size includes:
- You (the sponsor)
- Your spouse
- Any dependent children
- Anyone else listed as a dependent on your tax return
- The immigrant you are sponsoring
- Any immigrants you’ve previously sponsored still under obligation
Step 3: Meet Income Requirements
Income must meet or exceed 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your household size.
- If it doesn’t, you can combine household member incomes using Form I-864A.
- Alternatively, use assets (see more below).
Step 4: Fill Out the I-864 Form
Sections you’ll complete:
- Sponsor information (name, address, status)
- Immigrant information (the person you’re sponsoring)
- Income and asset information
- Sponsor’s household size
- Oath, affirmation, and signature
Step 5: Submit the Form
- Submit the I-864 with supporting documents to either:
- USCIS (if filing adjustment of status).
- National Visa Center (NVC) (if consular processing).
Using Assets to Meet the I-864 Requirements
If your income alone doesn’t qualify, assets can be used:
Acceptable Assets:
- Savings and checking accounts
- Stocks, bonds, and investment accounts
- Property (homes, land)
Key rule:
The value of the assets must equal five times the difference between your income and the required minimum (three times if sponsoring a spouse or child).
Example:
If you are $10,000 short, you need $50,000 in assets (or $30,000 if sponsoring a spouse).
Who Doesn’t Need an I-864 Affidavit of Support?
Certain immigrants are exempt from filing an I-864, including:
- Refugees and asylees adjusting status
- Certain self-petitioning battered spouses and children (VAWA applicants)
- Immigrants who have earned or can be credited with 40 quarters of Social Security earnings
Always confirm eligibility before skipping the I-864!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing the I-864
1. Missing Tax Documents
- Submit complete tax returns, not just transcripts unless specifically allowed.
2. Miscalculating Household Size
- Misreporting can lead to denials or Requests for Evidence (RFEs).
3. Insufficient Evidence of Assets
- Vague bank statements or unverified property valuations can delay processing.
4. Failing to Disclose Past Sponsorships
- Always mention if you’ve sponsored others in the past, even if they no longer live with you.
How Long is the I-864 Enforceable?
Sponsors remain financially responsible until the immigrant:
- Becomes a U.S. citizen.
- Works 40 qualifying quarters (approximately 10 years).
- Dies or permanently departs the U.S.
Marriage, divorce, or the sponsor’s death affects the obligation.
Conclusion
Understanding the I-864 Affidavit of Support in 2025 is critical for successfully sponsoring a green card applicant. With updated rules emphasizing stronger financial proofs, digital convenience, and careful public charge scrutiny, sponsors must be more meticulous than ever.
Prepare early, organize your financial documents, and ensure you meet the latest income guidelines. Properly filing the I-864 is a crucial step in helping your loved ones start their new life in the United States.
