U.S. Sets Income Standards for Green Card Sponsors

The U.S. government has published income requirements that citizens and lawful permanent residents must meet to sponsor foreign family members for a Green Card, as detailed in the official instructions for USCIS Form I-864, the Affidavit of Support. This legally binding document requires sponsors to promise financial support to the immigrant, ensuring they do not become a public burden.

A sponsor whose annual income exceeds 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines can rely solely on their income without including other household members. If the sponsor's income does not meet this threshold, they can combine household incomes to reach the required level.

The guidelines vary based on household size and are updated periodically. Additionally, sponsors may submit supporting evidence of income, which, while not always mandatory at the time of filing, can help avoid delays during the visa or adjustment of status process.

This requirement is applicable to family-based immigration petitions and certain employment-based cases involving family relationships.