Q: if you sponsor someone to come to the u.s. from Colombia are you responsible in any way for them financially?

A: When a US Citizen sponsors his spouse , USCIS requires that he file an affidavit of support with supporting tax return documents. In the event that the spouse accepts public benefits, then the US Citizen spouse may be sued to pay those benefits back. This is the general rule. Reach out to an immigration attorney for more specific advice.

A: When you sponsor someone to come to the U.S. from Colombia, you are typically required to file an Affidavit of Support. This legally binding document commits you to financially support the sponsored immigrant to the extent necessary to maintain them at an income level that is at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

As a sponsor, you are responsible for ensuring that the immigrant does not become a public charge, which means they should not rely on certain types of public assistance. If the immigrant does receive public benefits, the agency providing the benefit can require you to repay the cost.

This financial responsibility generally lasts until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, works in the United States for 40 qualifying quarters (about 10 years), permanently leaves the United States, or passes away.

It's important to understand the extent of these obligations before agreeing to sponsor someone. If you're unable to fulfill these responsibilities, the sponsored individual could face difficulties with their immigration status, and you could face legal consequences.

If you have any doubts or concerns about the sponsorship process, it's advisable to consult with an immigration attorney who can explain your obligations and help guide you through the process.