Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
Updated 2026-05-29 · General information, not legal advice.
The Affidavit of Support, Form I-864, is a legally enforceable contract in which a sponsor promises to financially support an intending immigrant. It is required for most family-based immigrant visas, including the CR-1/IR-1 spouse visa.
Who Must File
The petitioner (the US citizen or permanent resident who filed the I-130) must be the sponsor. They must be at least 18 and have a domicile in the United States.
The Income Requirement
The sponsor must show income of at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their household size. Active-duty military sponsoring a spouse or child need only meet 100%. Household size includes the sponsor, dependents, the immigrant(s), and anyone else the sponsor supports.
If Income Is Not Enough
- Joint sponsor: another qualifying person who independently meets 125% and files their own I-864.
- Household member income: a relative in the household can add income via Form I-864A.
- Assets: savings, property, or investments can supplement income (generally valued at 3–5x the shortfall, depending on the case).
Which Form to Use
- I-864 — the standard affidavit.
- I-864EZ — for a single sponsor relying only on salary shown on a W-2.
- I-864A — contract for a household member adding income.
- I-864W — request for exemption (for immigrants who already have enough qualifying work quarters).
Documents to Provide
- Most recent federal tax return or IRS tax transcript (often the last 3 years)
- W-2s and recent pay stubs
- Proof of US citizenship or permanent residence, and of US domicile
- For a joint sponsor: their own I-864 and financial documents
When the Obligation Ends
The sponsor's responsibility ends when the immigrant becomes a US citizen, earns 40 qualifying work quarters (about 10 years), permanently leaves the US, or dies. Divorce does not end it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What income do I need for the I-864?
At least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your household size (100% for active-duty military sponsoring a spouse or child). The figures update yearly.
Can someone help me sponsor?
Yes. A joint sponsor can file their own I-864, or a household member can add income with Form I-864A.
Does my obligation end if we divorce?
No. Divorce does not end the I-864 obligation. It ends only on citizenship, 40 work quarters, permanent departure from the US, or death.