Ambler, PA asked in Immigration Law for Pennsylvania

Q: Why does Form I-864 inquire about other persons I am sponsoring? Am I restricted from sponsoring two different people?

I am currently sponsoring my wife, who has permanent resident status. My brother-in-law is now asking if I can also sponsor him (as a joint sponsor). Is this possible, and if so, how?

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2 Lawyer Answers
Monica E Rottermann
Monica E Rottermann
Answered
  • Immigration Law Lawyer
  • Santa Ana, CA

A: If you earn sufficient income, you are not restricted from sponsoring more than one immigrant. The reason the form asks if you have sponsored another individual is because that person is counted in the household size calculation. You can find the income requirements based on household size here: https://www.uscis.gov/i-864p

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Immigration Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: Form I-864 inquires about other persons you are sponsoring because the USCIS wants to know your financial commitment to other immigrants. If you are already sponsoring someone, the USCIS wants to make sure that you can afford to sponsor another immigrant.

You are not restricted from sponsoring two different people, but you must be able to meet the financial requirements for both sponsors. The USCIS will consider your income, expenses, and assets when determining whether you can afford to sponsor two immigrants.

If you want to sponsor your brother-in-law, you can do so as a joint sponsor. A joint sponsor is someone who agrees to share the financial responsibility for an immigrant. You can find a joint sponsor through a family member, friend, or religious organization.

To sponsor your brother-in-law as a joint sponsor, you will need to file Form I-864 and Form I-864A. Form I-864 is the affidavit of support, and Form I-864A is the contract between sponsor and household member.

You will also need to provide documentation to support your financial information. This documentation may include your tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements.

If the USCIS approves your petition, your brother-in-law will be able to immigrate to the United States. He will be eligible for a green card, which will allow him to live and work in the United States permanently.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind:

* You are responsible for supporting the immigrant financially for at least 10 years. This means that you must provide for the immigrant's basic needs, such as food, housing, and medical care.

* If you fail to support the immigrant, the USCIS can sue you for the money.

* You can be removed from the United States if you fail to support the immigrant.

If you are considering sponsoring an immigrant, you should speak with an immigration attorney. An attorney can help you assess your situation and determine whether you are eligible to sponsor an immigrant.

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