News

Firm Announcements and Law Updates

 

How to file an I-134A

The I-134A Affidavit of Support is a document that shows that a US citizen or permanent resident is willing and able to financially support a foreign national during their temporary stay in the US. This document is required for many nonimmigrant visa applicants, including Ukrainian citizens who wish to visit or study in the United States.

In this instructional course, we will outline the steps involved in applying for the I-134A Affidavit of Support for a Ukrainian citizen.

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Before you apply for the I-134A Affidavit of Support, you must first determine if you are eligible to sponsor a Ukrainian citizen. Generally, to be eligible, you must:

  • Be a US citizen or permanent resident

  • Be at least 18 years old

  • Have a residence in the United States

Step 2: Complete the I-134A Form

To apply for the I-134A Affidavit of Support, you will need to complete the I-134A Form, which is available on the USCIS website. The form requires the following information:

  • Your personal information, including your name, address, and date of birth

  • Your employment and income information

  • Information about the Ukrainian citizen you are sponsoring, including their name, relationship to you, and purpose of their visit to the US

  • Details about your financial assets, such as bank accounts, investments, and property

Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents

In addition to the I-134A form, you will also need to provide supporting documents to demonstrate your financial ability to support the Ukrainian citizen. These may include:

  • A copy of your most recent federal income tax return or transcript

  • Proof of current employment and income, such as a letter from your employer or recent pay stubs

  • Bank statements or other evidence of financial assets

  • Any other documentation that supports your financial ability to sponsor the Ukrainian citizen

Step 4: Submit the I-134A Form and Supporting Documents

Once you have completed the I-134A form and gathered the required supporting documents, you should send them to the Ukrainian citizen you are sponsoring. They will need to submit these documents along with their visa application to the US Embassy or Consulate in Ukraine.

Step 5: Wait for a Decision

After the Ukrainian citizen submits their visa application, the US Embassy or Consulate will review the I-134A Affidavit of Support and other documents to determine if the Ukrainian citizen is eligible for the visa. If approved, the Ukrainian citizen will be issued a visa and can travel to the US for their temporary stay.

In summary, applying for the I-134A Affidavit of Support for a Ukrainian citizen requires completing the I-134A form, gathering supporting documents, and submitting them to the Ukrainian citizen for inclusion with their visa application. It is important to carefully review the instructions and requirements to ensure that the application is complete and accurate.

Please note that this information is intended as a general guide only and is not legal advice. The process may vary depending on individual circumstances, and it is always advisable to consult with a qualified immigration attorney for specific advice on your case.

Michael Smallbone