Ever dreamed of reuniting with family in the US but worried your income might not be enough to sponsor them? The good news is, you can team up with a joint sponsor to make it happen! Let’s explore how this works.
Why Sponsoring Matters
When you sponsor a family member for a green card, you’re promising to financially support them. The US wants to make sure they won’t become a public burden, so they require sponsors to show they have enough income.
Enter the Affidavit of Support
This is the official form (I-864) where you show your financial might. Here’s the catch: if your income alone isn’t enough (based on household size and federal poverty guidelines), you can use a joint sponsor to boost your financial firepower.
How to Find Your Partner-in-Sponsorship
Your joint sponsor can be anyone! A friend, family member (outside the one you’re sponsoring), or even a neighbor – as long as they’re a US citizen or green card holder, live in the US, and meet the income requirements themselves.
Teaming Up: The Steps
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File the Petition: First things first, submit the appropriate petition for your family member (like Form I-130 for immediate relatives).
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You Still Need Your I-864: Even with a joint sponsor, you’ll complete your own I-864 form showing your income and mentioning the joint sponsor.
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Finding Your Champion: Look for a US citizen or green card holder with stable income who’s willing to be your joint sponsor.
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The Joint Sponsor Steps Up: They’ll also complete their own I-864 form with proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs, employer letter).
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Gather Your Proof: Don’t forget to include supporting documents like recent tax returns and proof of your legal US status for both sponsorships.
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Consulate or Adjustment? Depending on where your family member is (inside or outside the US), they’ll either apply through a US embassy/consulate or USCIS.
Remember: It’s a Commitment
Sponsoring someone is a big responsibility. Both you and your joint sponsor are legally obligated to support the immigrant until they become a US citizen, work for 10 years, or leave permanently.
Bonus Tips:
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Household Help: If other adults in your household want to chip in, they can use Form I-864A to show their contribution.
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Life Happens: If your or your joint sponsor’s financial situation changes significantly, let USCIS or the consulate know to avoid issues.
The Bottom Line
Sponsoring a family member can be a wonderful way to unite your family. If your income alone isn’t enough, don’t despair! The option of a joint sponsor opens the door to reuniting with loved ones and building a future together in the US.
