Sponsorship Simplified: Your Comprehensive Joint Sponsor Document ChecklistJoint Sponsor Checklist of Documents

When you are acting as a joint sponsor for an immigrant visa or green card applicant, there are certain documents you may need to provide to support the application. The specific requirements can vary based on the type of visa or green card being sought and the relationship between the joint sponsor and the primary sponsor/applicant. However, here is a general joint sponsor checklist of documents that may be required to submit:

• Form I-864, Affidavit of Support:
  • Complete and signed by the joint sponsor.
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency:
  • U.S. passport, birth certificate, certificate of naturalization, or green card.
• Proof of Income:
  • Copies of the joint sponsor’s most recent federal income tax returns (including all W-2s and 1099s) and recent pay stubs.
  • Employment verification letter (optional but can strengthen the application).
• Proof of Assets:
  • Bank statements, property deeds, or other evidence of assets.
• Letter of Employment:
  • If applicable, a letter from the joint sponsor’s employer stating the position, salary, and length of employment.
• Credit Report:
  • A copy of the joint sponsor’s credit report may be required.
• Proof of Relationship to the Primary Sponsor/Applicant:
  • If the joint sponsor is related to the primary sponsor or applicant, documents proving the relationship (e.g., birth certificate, marriage certificate).
• Affidavit of Relationship:
  • A letter or affidavit explaining the relationship between the joint sponsor and the primary sponsor/applicant.
• Divorce or Death Certificates:
  • If the joint sponsor has been previously married, divorce or death certificates may be required.
• Form I-864A (if applicable):
  • If there is more than one joint sponsor, each joint sponsor may need to submit Form I-864A.
• Form I-864EZ (if eligible):
  • Some joint sponsors may be eligible to use Form I-864EZ if certain criteria are met.

How to fill out Form I-864 for joint sponsor

Filling out Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, as a joint sponsor involves providing detailed information about your financial situation to support an immigrant visa or green card application. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to fill out Form I-864 as a joint sponsor:

Note: This guide is for informational purposes only, and you should consult the latest version of the form and instructions on the official USCIS website or seek legal advice for specific guidance.

• Download and Review the Form:
  • Obtain the latest version of Form I-864 from the USCIS website.
  • Read the instructions carefully before starting.
• Section 1: Information About You (Joint Sponsor):
  • Provide your personal information, including name, address, date of birth, social security number, and contact details.
• Section 2: Information About the Principal Immigrant (sponsored person):
  • Include details about the immigrant you are sponsoring, such as their name, relationship to you, and their A-Number (if applicable).
• Sections 3-7: Household Size, Income, and Assets:
  • Fill out information about your household size, your income, and your assets.
  • Include information about your current annual income, employment details, and any additional sources of income.
  • Attach supporting documents such as tax returns, W-2s, 1099s, pay stubs, and any evidence of assets.
• Sections 8-10: Sponsor’s Contract and Certification:
  • Sign and date the form in the designated areas.
  • By signing, you are making a legally binding commitment to financially support the sponsored immigrant(s).
• Additional Information:
  • If you are using assets to meet the income requirements, provide evidence of those assets (e.g., bank statements, property deeds).
  • If you are married and your spouse is also a joint sponsor, they should complete Form I-864A.
• Include Required Supporting Documents:
  • Make sure to include all required supporting documents, as specified in the form instructions. This may include tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, and other financial documents.
• Mail the Form and Supporting Documents:
  • Check the USCIS website for the correct mailing address.
  • Include the completed Form I-864 and all supporting documents in your submission.
• Keep Copies:
  • Make copies of the completed form and all supporting documents for your records.
• Check for Updates:
  • Before submitting the form, check the USCIS website for any updates or changes to the form or instructions.

Click Here