When it comes to immigration paperwork, small details can make a major difference. Form I-134A is a great example of this. It looks a lot like Form I-134, but it’s used for different reasons.
If you’re thinking about helping someone come to the United States, or if you’re trying to come here yourself, it’s important to understand Form I-134A. This guide will explain what Form I-134A is, how it works, and why you might need legal help with it.
What Is Form I-134A?
Form I-134A is called the Online Request to be a Supporter and Declaration of Financial Support. It’s a form used by U.S. immigration. When someone fills out this form, they’re asking for permission to bring certain people to the U.S. and promising to help support them financially.
Why Form I-134A Matters?
Form I-134A is used for special programs that help people come to the U.S. when their home countries are unsafe. It’s a way for the U.S. government to make sure these people will have financial support when they arrive.
Who Can Use Form I-134A?
To use Form I-134A as a sponsor, you need to:
- Live in the U.S. legally
- Be able to show you can financially support the person you’re sponsoring
You might be able to use Form I-134A if you are:
- A U.S. citizen
- A U.S. national
- A lawful permanent resident (someone with a green card)
- Someone with a valid nonimmigrant visa
In some cases, you might be able to use Form I-134A if you have:
You can also file Form I-134A:
- On behalf of an organization
- With a co-supporter (someone else who will help you support the person coming to the U.S.)
Who Can Be Sponsored with Form I-134A?
Form I-134A is only used for certain programs. Right now, it’s used for:
- Uniting for Ukraine (U4U)
- Processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans (PCHNV)
- Family Reunification Parole (FRP) processes
Each program has its own rules, but everyone who is sponsored needs to:
- Have a valid passport
- Pass security checks
- Show why they should be allowed to come to the U.S.
How to File Form I-134A?
Filing Form I-134A takes several steps:
- Gather Information: You’ll need details about yourself and the person you’re sponsoring.
- Prepare Financial Documents: You need to show you make enough money to support the person you’re sponsoring. Your income should be at least 100% of the federal poverty guidelines for your family size.
- Create a USCIS Account: You can only file Form I-134A online.
- Fill Out the Form: Follow the instructions carefully. Make sure all information is correct.
- Submit Documents: You’ll need to prove your identity and agree to let the government check your background.
- Submit the Form: There’s no fee to submit Form I-134A.
Remember, you need to submit a separate Form I-134A for each person you’re sponsoring, even children.
What Happens After You Submit Form I-134A?
After you submit Form I-134A, here’s what happens:
- USCIS Reviews: The government checks your application. They look at your financial information and make sure you don’t have a history that would make you unfit to be a sponsor.
- Decision: USCIS decides whether to approve you as a sponsor.
- Notification: If you’re approved, USCIS emails the person you’re sponsoring.
- Next Steps for the Sponsored Person: If you’re approved, the person you’re sponsoring needs to create a USCIS account and confirm the information you provided. They must also show they meet health requirements, and use the CBP One app to provide more information and a photo
- Travel Authorization: If everything is okay, USCIS tells the person they can travel to the U.S.
- Arrival in the U.S.: When the person arrives, they go through more security checks. If everything is okay, they’re allowed to enter the U.S.
- Work Permission: If the person wants to work in the U.S., they need to apply for work authorization.
How Form I-134A is Different from Form I-134?
Form I-134A and Form I-134 look similar, but they’re used for different things:
- Form I-134A is used for specific humanitarian programs.
- Form I-134 is usually used for people coming to the U.S. on nonimmigrant visas.
- You can only file Form I-134A online.
- You can file Form I-134 by mail or online.
- Form I-134A is only for the three programs mentioned earlier.
- Form I-134 is used for many different visa types.
- With Form I-134A, you’re asking to bring someone to the U.S.
- With Form I-134, you’re just showing you can support someone who’s already coming to the U.S. for another reason.
Common Problems with Form I-134A
People often run into issues when filling out Form I-134A. Here are some common problems:
Not Meeting Income Requirements
To be a sponsor, you need to show you make enough money. If your income is too low, your application might be rejected.
Missing or Incorrect Information
It’s easy to make mistakes on the form. Even small errors can cause problems.
Not Understanding the Commitment
Some people fill out Form I-134A without realizing what they’re agreeing to. Make sure you understand your responsibilities before you submit the form.
Confusion with Form I-134
Because the forms are similar, some people fill out the wrong one. Make sure you’re using Form I-134A for the right situation.
Why You Might Need Help with Form I-134A?
Form I-134A can be confusing. Here’s why many people get help from an immigration lawyer:
- Complex Rules: The rules for Form I-134A are complicated and can change.
- High Stakes: If you make a mistake, it could mean the person you’re trying to help can’t come to the U.S.
- Financial Commitment: When you submit Form I-134A, you’re making a serious financial promise. A lawyer can help you understand what you’re agreeing to.
- Program Specifics: Each program that uses Form I-134A has its own rules. A lawyer can help you navigate these.
- Coordination: If you’re working with a co-sponsor or an organization, a lawyer can help coordinate everyone’s information.
- Problem Solving: If something goes wrong with your application, an immigration lawyer can help figure out what to do next.
How a Lawyer Can Help with Form I-134A?
An immigration lawyer can help in many ways:
Understanding Your Options
A lawyer can explain whether Form I-134A is the right choice for your situation. They might know about other options you haven’t thought of.
Filling Out the Form Correctly
Lawyers who work with these forms often know exactly what information is needed and how to present it.
Gathering the Right Documents
A lawyer can tell you what documents you need and help you get them together.
Explaining Your Responsibilities
If you’re thinking about being a sponsor, a lawyer can make sure you understand what you’re agreeing to.
Handling Problems
If something goes wrong with your application, a lawyer can help you figure out what to do next.
Coordinating with USCIS
If there are questions about your application, a lawyer can communicate with USCIS on your behalf.
Seek Help from an Immigration Lawyer with the Form I-134A Process
If you’re not sure about any part of the Form I-134A process, it’s a good idea to get help. An experienced immigration lawyer can guide you through the process, help you avoid common mistakes, and improve your chances of success.
With the right preparation and help, Form I-134A can be a powerful tool for bringing people to safety and reuniting families. Whether you’re offering support or seeking it, understanding this form is an important step in your immigration journey.
