Do You Meet the Requirements To Be a Sponsor?

Last Updated: August 31, 2026

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Do you have a family member applying for legal permanent residency? Are you going to be theirr sponsor? This guide will help you figure out if you meet the requirements.

What is a financial sponsor?

Being a financial sponsor to an immigrant means the U.S. Government will consider your income and assets (such as checking and savings accounts, stocks, bonds, or property) as available to support the potential immigrant.

Who can sponsor? Who needs a sponsor?

Anyone applying to be a permanent resident through a family member must have a financial sponsor. If you filed an immigrant visa petition for your relative, you must be the sponsor. A sponsor is also required for certain employment-based applications.

Am I eligible to become a sponsor?

To qualify to be a financial sponsor, you must meet the following requirements:

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What is Form I-864?

Form I-864 acts as an affidavit of support, which is a document an individual signs to accept financial responsibility for another person who is coming to the United States to live permanently. The form proves that the immigrant has the financial means to live in the United States without needing financial benefits from the U.S. government

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What if I don't meet the financial requirements?

If your income alone does not meet the requirement, your assets may be considered in determining your financial ability. You may also use the income of other household members (by filing Form I-864A) or use a joint sponsor.  

What is a joint sponsor?  

A joint sponsor is someone who is willing to accept legal responsibility for supporting your immigrating family member with you. A joint sponsor must meet all the same requirements as you; however, they do not need to be related to the immigrant. The joint sponsor must reach the 125% income requirement alone, and they must also fill out their own separate Form I-864.  

What documentation do I need to fill out Form I-864?

You must provide the following documentation:

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How long am I responsible for the immigrant?

The sponsor's legal financial responsibility usually lasts until the immigrant:

• Becomes a U.S. citizen.
• Can be credited with 40 quarters of work (usually 10 years).
• Leaves the U.S. permanently.
• Dies.

Do I need to inform USCIS if I move or change addresses?

Yes, by legal requirement. If you change your address, you will need to file Form I-865, Sponsor's Notice of Change of Address, within 30 days of moving.

What if I fail to provide financial support?

An affidavit of support is a legally enforceable contract against a sponsor. If the individual you sponsored receives "means-tested public benefits," you are responsible for repaying the cost to the agency that provided them. If you do not repay the debt, the agency or the sponsored immigrant can sue you in court to collect enough money to bring their income up to 125% of the Poverty Guidelines. Furthermore, bankruptcy does not necessarily terminate a sponsor's I-864 obligations.

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