Understanding the Affidavit of Support
An Affidavit of Support is a legally binding contract where a sponsor agrees to financially support an immigrant seeking to live in the United States. This document assures the U.S. government that the immigrant will not become a public charge, meaning they won’t rely on government assistance. The sponsor must demonstrate the financial ability to support the immigrant at or above 125% of the poverty guideline for their household size. Providing a well-written and credible Affidavit of Support is crucial for a successful immigration process.
Crafting a compelling Affidavit of Support involves more than just stating your willingness to provide financial assistance. It requires presenting concrete evidence of your financial stability and your commitment to supporting the immigrant. This includes detailing your income, assets, and employment history. Furthermore, a personal touch can significantly strengthen the affidavit. Clearly and sincerely express your relationship with the immigrant and your reasons for supporting their immigration journey. A well-crafted letter demonstrates not only your financial capability but also your genuine commitment.
Key Elements of a Strong Affidavit
A strong Affidavit of Support should include several key components. Firstly, it should accurately reflect the sponsor’s current financial situation, including income, assets, and debts. Secondly, it should clearly demonstrate the sponsor’s ability to meet the financial requirements for supporting the immigrant. Thirdly, it should be written in a clear, concise, and professional manner. Including supporting documentation, such as tax returns and bank statements, is essential to validate the information provided.
Remember to tailor the Affidavit of Support to the specific circumstances of the case. Highlight any unique factors that demonstrate your commitment to supporting the immigrant. For example, if you have previously provided financial assistance, mention it in the affidavit. Furthermore, be prepared to answer any questions or provide additional information that the U.S. government may request. The more comprehensive and well-supported your affidavit is, the greater the likelihood of a positive outcome for the immigration process.
10 Affidavit of Support Sample Letters
Sample 1: General Affidavit
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Affidavit of Support for [Immigrant’s Name]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I, [Your Name], am writing this affidavit to confirm my commitment to financially supporting [Immigrant’s Name] upon their arrival in the United States. I am a U.S. citizen residing at [Your Address]. My income is $[Your Annual Income], and I am employed as a [Your Occupation] at [Your Employer]. I have attached my most recent tax return as proof of income. I am committed to ensuring that [Immigrant’s Name] will not become a public charge.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 2: Supporting a Family Member
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Affidavit of Support for [Immigrant’s Name] (My [Relationship to Immigrant])
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to provide my unwavering support for my [Relationship to Immigrant], [Immigrant’s Name], who is applying for a visa to immigrate to the United States. I have known [Immigrant’s Name] for [Number] years and have always been impressed by their [Positive Qualities]. I currently earn $[Your Annual Income] annually working as a [Your Occupation] at [Your Employer]. I am fully committed to providing [Immigrant’s Name] with the necessary financial support to ensure they do not become a public charge. I have also attached copies of my recent pay stubs and tax returns for your review.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 3: Mentioning Assets
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Affidavit of Support for [Immigrant’s Name]
Dear USCIS Officer,
This letter serves as my formal Affidavit of Support for [Immigrant’s Name]. My annual income is $[Your Annual Income] as a [Your Occupation]. In addition to my income, I also have significant assets, including a home valued at $[Home Value] and savings of $[Savings Amount]. Documentation supporting these assets is attached. I am fully capable and willing to provide financial support to [Immigrant’s Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 4: Joint Sponsor Affidavit
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Joint Affidavit of Support for [Immigrant’s Name]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to serve as a joint sponsor for [Immigrant’s Name]. I understand that I am jointly and severally liable with the primary sponsor, [Primary Sponsor’s Name]. My annual income is $[Your Annual Income], and I am employed as a [Your Occupation]. I have attached my tax return and other supporting documentation. I am committed to providing financial support to [Immigrant’s Name] to ensure they do not become a public charge.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 5: Explaining Unemployment (and ability to support)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Affidavit of Support for [Immigrant’s Name]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to provide an Affidavit of Support for [Immigrant’s Name]. While I am currently unemployed, I have substantial savings of $[Savings Amount], as evidenced by the attached bank statements. I am actively seeking employment and anticipate securing a new position soon. Furthermore, I am confident that my savings are sufficient to support [Immigrant’s Name] until I regain employment. I remain fully committed to ensuring they will not become a public charge.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 6: Self-Employed Sponsor
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Affidavit of Support for [Immigrant’s Name]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am submitting this affidavit to support [Immigrant’s Name]’s application. I am self-employed as a [Your Profession], operating under the business name [Your Business Name]. My annual income, as reported on my tax returns (attached), is $[Your Annual Income]. I am financially stable and committed to providing the necessary support to ensure [Immigrant’s Name] does not become a public charge. I have also included business documentation and profit/loss statements to further illustrate my income.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 7: Addressing Past Government Assistance (if applicable, be honest!)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Affidavit of Support for [Immigrant’s Name]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to submit my Affidavit of Support for [Immigrant’s Name]. I wish to be transparent and acknowledge that I previously received [Type of government assistance] during [Dates/period]. This was due to [briefly explain the circumstances]. I have since become financially stable and am now employed as a [Your Occupation] earning $[Your Annual Income] annually. I am committed to ensuring that [Immigrant’s Name] will not become a public charge, and I have learned from my past experiences. I have also included documentation to support my current financial standing.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 8: Supporting Multiple Immigrants
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Affidavit of Support for [Immigrant’s Name 1] and [Immigrant’s Name 2]
Dear USCIS Officer,
This affidavit confirms my commitment to supporting both [Immigrant’s Name 1] and [Immigrant’s Name 2]. My annual income is $[Your Annual Income] working as a [Your Occupation]. I understand that I am responsible for supporting both individuals and that the income requirement is based on my household size, which now includes these two individuals. I have attached my tax returns and other relevant documents to demonstrate my ability to meet this requirement. I am fully committed to ensuring that neither individual will become a public charge.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 9: Providing Housing and Living Expenses
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Affidavit of Support for [Immigrant’s Name]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to submit my Affidavit of Support for [Immigrant’s Name]. In addition to my annual income of $[Your Annual Income], I will be providing housing and covering the living expenses for [Immigrant’s Name] at my residence located at [Your Address]. This will significantly reduce their financial burden, and I am committed to ensuring they have a safe and stable environment. My commitment goes beyond financial; I will assist them in acclimating to life in the U.S. I have attached supporting documentation of my income and home ownership.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 10: Detailed Personal Connection
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Affidavit of Support for [Immigrant’s Name]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing this Affidavit of Support with the utmost sincerity for [Immigrant’s Name], my [Relationship to Immigrant]. We have known each other for [Number] years, and I have witnessed firsthand their [positive qualities – e.g., strength, resilience, kindness]. I am deeply committed to helping them build a successful life in the United States. My annual income is $[Your Annual Income] as a [Your Occupation] at [Your Employer], and I am fully capable of providing the necessary financial support. Beyond financial support, I am committed to helping them find employment and integrate into our community. Attached are my tax returns and other supporting documents. I am confident that [Immigrant’s Name] will be a valuable addition to our country.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Conclusion: Crafting Your Perfect Affidavit
These sample letters provide a strong foundation for writing your own Affidavit of Support. Remember to always tailor the letter to your specific situation and relationship with the immigrant. Be honest, thorough, and provide as much supporting documentation as possible. A well-crafted Affidavit of Support can significantly increase the chances of a successful immigration application. Consult with an immigration attorney for personalized guidance.
