Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)

Form I-864 is a legally enforceable contract between a financial sponsor (usually the U.S. citizen or permanent resident petitioner) and the U.S. government, committing to support the intending immigrant at a minimum of 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. It is required for almost all family-based green card applications. If the petitioner's income is below the threshold, a joint sponsor can co-sign. The obligation lasts until the immigrant (1) becomes a U.S. citizen, (2) has earned 40 quarters of Social Security work credit, (3) leaves the U.S. permanently, or (4) dies. Divorce does not end the I-864 obligation.