The process of sponsoring a family member for a green card in the United States involves several steps and forms. One of the most critical documents in this process is the Affidavit of Support, also known as U.S. Immigration Form I-864. This document is a legal contract between you (the sponsor) and the U.S. government, in which you agree to use your financial resources to support the intending immigrant named on the affidavit. 

In this article, we will provide detailed information about Form I-864, including the proposed increase in [government filing fees](/immigration-resources/fee-reductions-waivers-green-card-naturalization) for family-based green card applications, the processing time for Form I-864, the financial requirements and obligations of the sponsor, and answers to frequently asked questions about Form I-864. Whether you're a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident considering becoming a financial sponsor, this guide will help you understand what you're signing up for.

Understanding the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)

Form I-864, also known as the Affidavit of Support, is a document that you, as a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, sign to accept financial responsibility for a family member who is applying for a green card. This form is a critical part of the immigration process as it serves as a promise to the U.S. government that the person you're sponsoring won't need to rely on public benefits.

**Who can sign the Affidavit of Support?**

To sign the Affidavit of Support, you must be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident. You also need to have a domicile (residence) in the United States. 

As a sponsor, you are agreeing to use your resources to support the intending immigrant named on the affidavit. This support includes providing for the basic needs of the sponsored individual such as food, clothing, housing, and other necessities. 

Understanding the responsibilities associated with Form I-864 is crucial as it is a legally enforceable contract with the U.S. government. In the event that the person you're sponsoring does receive public benefits, the government can legally demand repayment from you. Therefore, it's important to fully understand what you're committing to before signing the Affidavit of Support.

Proposed Increase in Government Filing Fees

One of the significant changes that you need to be aware of is the proposed increase in government filing fees for family-based green card applications. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services ([USCIS](https://www.uscis.gov/^)) has proposed this increase, which could take effect as soon as summer 2023.

Currently, there is no filing fee for Form I-864 when filed with USCIS. However, when filed abroad, there might be a fee associated with the U.S. embassy or consulate where the form is being processed.

While the exact details of the proposed increase have not been released, it's important to keep an eye on updates from USCIS. Any increase in fees could potentially make the process of sponsoring a family member more expensive.

The proposed fee increase could have a significant impact on sponsors and applicants. Higher fees could potentially deter some individuals from sponsoring family members. It's crucial to factor in these potential changes when planning for the sponsorship process.

**Expected Time Frame for the Implementation of the New Fees**

USCIS has indicated that the proposed fee increase could take effect as soon as summer 2023. However, this is subject to change, and it's recommended to regularly check the USCIS website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Remember, while these changes may seem daunting, they are part of the process. It's essential to stay informed and prepared to navigate these changes successfully.

When sponsoring a family member for a green card, it's crucial to understand the timeline involved. The processing time for Form I-864 can vary, but it currently averages around 17 months. 

**Factors That Can Affect the Processing Time**

Several factors can affect the processing time of Form I-864. These include:

**How to Check the Status of the Application**

You can check the status of your Form I-864 application online through the USCIS website. You'll need the receipt number that USCIS mailed you after they received your application. 

Remember, patience is key when dealing with immigration matters. While the process may seem lengthy, it's important to remember that each step brings your family member closer to obtaining their green card.

Frequently Asked Questions about Form I-864

Planning to sponsor a family member for a U.S. green card? This guide explains the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864), a key part of the process. Learn about the sponsor's responsibilities, eligibility criteria, and how to meet income requirements. Also, get insights on the processing time and how to check your application status. For complex queries, consider consulting an immigration attorney.

Guide to the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) for Family-Based Green Card Applications

After you've filled the application, our expert team reviews your entries to maximize your chance of success before submission. Or if you want to avoid our online application, you can speak with our professionals who can fill your application while they are on the phone with you.

Here are the steps to apply for your visa.

Whether your goal is to get your Green Card or just to get a Visa for the United States, you've came to the right place. Our expert consultants are here to make the process easy on you and to maximize your chance of success of your United States Visa approval.

We know that the process is complicated and it can be hard to get started. With our easy to use technology, My-Visa-UAS lets you get started applying for your United States Visa today. Every applicant receives a personalized review of their application by our team of experts before submission to ensure that your application is correct and to maximize your chance of success.

Personalized U.S. Visa Consulting and Service

1 out of every 3 VISA applications for the United States are denied, and this is usually due to oversights and not having the necessary support. Our combination of an online application and expert human review maximizes your change of success.

When you apply in your language, you will save countless time and effort. In addition, by ensuring that your application is correct, you will avoid delays and the need to reapply.

Most Visa assistance services charge hundreds of dollars for their services. Our service is much cheaper and more efficient. Save your money for your trip to the United States by applying with our service.

By using our service, you greatly reduce the risk of clerical errors and your application being denied. Our experts will review your application and ensure that it is correct.

When you enroll in our service, we'll keep you up to date with any updates to your Visa application through text message or email. You will also receive a guide with tips for your interview, and we'll even schedule the interview for you.

If your application is rejected for any clerical error (which happens in 1-2 weeks), we'll help you apply again immediately at no additional cost. Our custom service is our number 1 priority, and we work tirelessly to help ensure that your application is approved.

Our advisors are available to help you get your visa to the United States and your can begin anytime.

Are you ready to apply for your Visa to the United States?

Increase the Chance of Your Visa Being Approved

Save Precious Time

Save Your Money

Rest Assured

Stay informed

Unlimited Re-Applications

What Are The Benefits?

'The experience with My-Visa-USA was incredible. Not only was it very affordable, but their online form was easy to use and saved a lot of time. I appreciate the entire My-Visa-USA team for making the visa application process so straightforward. Now, thanks to their help, I am happily living in the United States.'

'I am very grateful to My-Visa-USA. The visa application process was easy and efficient. I saved a lot of money and time. Their customer service was also exceptional; they were always available to answer all my questions. Thank you, My-Visa-USA!'

'My-Visa-USA made the visa application process incredibly easy. I didn't have to deal with long phone calls or visit a physical office. The online form was simple and affordable. Thanks to My-Visa-USA, I can now fulfill my dream of studying in the United States.'

'Applying for a visa always seemed like a complicated and expensive process, but with My-Visa-USA, it was the opposite. The process was simple, efficient, and most importantly, affordable. I am very grateful to My-Visa-USA for making this dream come true.'

'I am impressed with the ease and speed of the visa application process with My-Visa-USA. Their team of experts was very helpful and always available to answer my questions. And all of this at a lower price than other services. I will definitely recommend My-Visa-USA to my friends and family.'

My-Visa-USA provides a personalized, affordable, and efficient US Visa consulting and application service. Apply for various types of US visas, including tourism, business, immigration, study, and humanitarian in your native language. Maximize your chance of success with our expert review and guidance throughout the process. Start your US Visa journey today with My-Visa-USA!

My-Visa-USA is not affiliated with any United States government agency and does not represent any government entity, embassies, or consulates. Our services include advice and assistance throughout the visa application, immigration, or citizenship process. However, the final decision on the visa application is made by the Consular Officer of the United States Embassy or Consulate.

Our company specializes in consultancy for obtaining US visas. We provide support services and handle the paperwork on your behalf. In addition, we have experts dedicated to each step of the process to increase your chances of approval for the US visa.

No, although we have the experience of several immigration lawyers with whom we work, we do not offer legal services. We only provide you with digital tools and proven expertise to increase your chances of acquiring the US visa. If you need legal advice, we can put you in touch with one of our associated lawyers.

The duration depends on several factors, including the capacity of the United States Embassy or Consulate in your country.

The fee required by the United States government is paid whether the visa is accepted or not, and it is non-refundable. Our advice aims to increase the likelihood of your visa being approved.

If there is not enough time for you to be granted a visa, or if you prefer not to apply for one, it is preferable that your company changes the route and chooses one that does not go through the United States.

The possibility of obtaining a visa more quickly depends on: 1. The need to travel due to the death of an immediate relative or serious illness, 2. You or a minor child requiring urgent medical treatment, 3. Attending an urgent business meeting, 4. Making an unexpected visit for various reasons. To learn about other cases in which you may be able to travel more quickly, start the visa application process, or request more information, do not hesitate to contact us.

Are you affiliated with the United States Embassy?

Why should get my Visa with My-USA-Visa?

Is My-Visa-USA a law firm?

How long does it take to obtain a US visa?

If my visa is denied, will I get a refund?

My flight is tomorrow, can I apply for a transit visa?

Can I get a visa sooner?

Not sure if you qualify?

Select the reason for your trip:

Our service is quick, cheap, and easy to use. Our experienced team will assist you from application to interview

You can get a head start filling in the details we need to process your application

Start Applying for Your United States Visa Today

Ready to Get Started?

Click the 'Sign Up' button at the top of the page, and enter your email to register an account.

Answer questions about yourself and your past after creating your account. We will use your responses to put together your U.S. Visa Applicaton.

Make your payment in the 'Payment' page of the online portal when you are ready to submit your application. We accept all major credit cards.

After reviewing your entries in the My-Visa-USA application, we'll fill the real application for you. You'll just need to sign it and submit it.

If an interview is necessary (in some circumstances it is not), we'll schedule your interview for you at any United States Embassy worldwide that you choose.

Assuming you have had a successful application process, which 9/10 applicants do, you'll receive your visa and be ready to travel to the United States!

Create an Account

Enter your information in the portal

Make Payment

Finalize Your Real Application

Attend Your Interview

Receive Your Visa

The Secure Route to Your Visa

Hear From Satistfied Customers

My-Visa-USA: Quick, Cheap, Easy United States Visa Application Service

Learn the ins and outs of the Visa Application process while you fill out the form in your native language. When you're finished, we'll ensure its accuracy and assist you in signing and sending your official application.

Start Your Visa Journey Today: Use Our Guided Service

An expert visa consultant reviews every part of your application before submission. You'll get assistance with difficult sections, preparing necessary documents, interview preparation, and more.

With My-Visa-USA, you have access to expert visa consultants and immigration consultants. We know the system well and will help you avoid mistakes and problems applying for the U.S. Visa

Don't bother with the hassle of filling tedious government forms in a foreign langugae. With our easy-to-use system, just answer some questions about yourself and handle putting together your official application. 

Our team is available to you 7 days a weeks. Reach out to a friendly customer service representative with any questions you may have.

Personalized Assistance

An Experienced Team

Easy-To-Use Tools

Professional Customer Service

US Visa & Immigration Blog

Immigration Resources

US Visa & Immigration News

Visa, TPS, and Humanitarian Parole services coming soon!

Enter your email address below to receive the latest news and updates from us. We will keep you updated any news, updates, or changes in the Visa application process.