Immigration Blog about US & Canadian Immigration matters.

Sponsoring if you are an American Citizen

If you are a U.S Citizen who wants to sponsor or “petition” for your partner, spouse, or minor children that live in America, there is a pretty lengthy process you need to go through to make sure you are applying for the correct application. Not only do you need to fill out the application for them to be supported in America, but also you need to file the application for adjustment of status for their permanent residency, around the same time you file your sponsorship information. You are also required to file a form I- 864 which is an affidavit of support, submit that and your petition for your relative and also include the application for adjustment of status for yourself as a resident.

Affidavit of Support Form- I-864

I-864 is the Affidavit of Support form that you use to show that you have adequate finances to support you and your family when going to the U.S, and that you will not be ending up using and depending on the U.S government for financial support programs. The form is about 16 pages long, should be completed in capital letters and is electronically completed. Once finished, print out and mail it, it is not recommended to submit the form online/ electronically. When it comes to filling out the form the principal immigrant or the person who is going to be the beneficiary of the person who needs the visa, is responsible for submitting their taxes to show they have adequate funds to support their spouse.

US Spousal Sponsorship

Are you a citizen of the United States? Interested in sponsoring your spouse? This may get to be a confusing process. Essentially, your spouse will live in the US as a Green Card Holder with you if your application is successful. However, there are specific steps towards this process that differ depending on your situation. You will want to make sure that you follow the correct procedure to ensure higher chances of success.

How do I bring my spouse if I am a US citizen?

You may only sponsor your spouse to the US if you are either a citizen or a permanent resident (Green Card Holder). As a US citizen, there are two different processes: one for if your spouse to be sponsored is inside the US, and a separate one for if they are living outside of the US. If your spouse is living inside the US lawfully, there are two major forms you will need to complete. The first is Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. This form is intended to establish the relationship between you and your spouse to be sponsored. The other form you will need to fill out is Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This form will enable your spouse to be a permanent resident of the US (if the form is adequately completed and ultimately accepted). Ensure that you properly fill out both forms, and submit them at the same time.

What is U.S. Family Class?

The U.S. family class allows you to come to U.S.A by a family member or relative. It was designed to promote family reunion. You can also bring in your husband. He would be considered an immediate relative as he is your spouse.

To sponsor your husband there are some requirements however:

1. You must be a US citizen or