Affidavit of Support Document Template

Create a comprehensive Affidavit of Support for immigration sponsorship. This template helps you meet USCIS requirements, demonstrate financial capability, and properly support your immigrant beneficiary.

Affidavit of Support Template

An Affidavit of Support is a legally binding document where a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (sponsor) agrees to financially support an immigrant seeking permanent residence in the United States. This document is typically filed using USCIS Form I-864 and is crucial for most family-based and some employment-based immigration cases.

What This Template Is For

This template helps sponsors create a properly structured Affidavit of Support that meets all USCIS requirements. It's designed for U.S. citizens or permanent residents who need to demonstrate their ability and willingness to financially support an immigrant at 125% above the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The document serves as a contract between the sponsor and the U.S. government.

When To Use This Template

Use this template when:

  • Sponsoring a family member for permanent residence
  • Supporting an employment-based immigrant who is a relative
  • Required by USCIS as part of an adjustment of status application
  • Needing to demonstrate financial capability for sponsorship
  • Replacing or updating an existing Affidavit of Support

How To Customize It

Follow these steps to complete your Affidavit of Support:

  1. Gather required documentation (tax returns, employment verification, bank statements)
  2. Calculate your household income
  3. Complete sponsor's personal information section
  4. Fill in beneficiary details accurately
  5. Document all sources of income
  6. Include any household member contributions
  7. Sign and notarize the document
  8. Attach all required supporting evidence

Common Use Cases

The Affidavit of Support is commonly used in:

  • Spouse visa applications
  • Parent immigration cases
  • Sibling sponsorship
  • Child immigration processes
  • Family-based green card applications

Best Practices

Follow these guidelines:

  • Be completely truthful about financial information
  • Include all sources of stable income
  • Maintain copies of all supporting documents
  • Meet minimum income requirements
  • Ensure accurate household size calculation
  • Get professional review if uncertain

Template Variations

Different versions are available for:

  • Joint sponsors (Form I-864)
  • Substitute sponsors
  • Military service members (special provisions)
  • Self-employed sponsors

Success Stories

Recent successful applications include:

  • A U.S. citizen sponsoring their spouse from Canada
  • A permanent resident supporting their elderly parents
  • A joint sponsor helping a family unite in America

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an Affidavit of Support remain in effect?

The obligation continues until the sponsored immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, has worked 40 quarters (approximately 10 years), leaves the U.S. permanently, or dies.

What income level do I need to be a sponsor?

Sponsors must demonstrate income at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their household size (100% for active military).

Can assets be used instead of income?

Yes, significant assets can supplement or replace income requirements. Assets must typically be worth 5 times the difference between your income and the required amount.

What happens if I cannot meet the income requirements?

You can use a joint sponsor who meets the income requirements, or combine your income with household members who are willing to co-sign Form I-864A.

Can I withdraw my Affidavit of Support?

No, once the intending immigrant becomes a permanent resident, the Affidavit of Support becomes a binding legal contract that cannot be withdrawn.