I-134 Affidavit of Support recommendation for low income

[jeavgar 1]

We're currently at the NVC stage. We have our case number and ready to submit the IV to continue. However, we're stuck with the I-134.

My wife (the sponsor) and I (the applicant) live outside of the USA, so we cannot meet the requirements for minimum income as a household. My wife is currently unemployed due to limited work rights, and so has no income. Originally we planned to have my wife's parents be joint-sponsors, but they are now uncooperative and no longer willing to be a joint-sponsor. This is very stressful and frustrating for us, so we've essentially become stuck in the process until we can figure out how to continue.

What other options are available for us to meet the requirements for Affidavit of Support? I will not legally be allowed to work in the US until my immigration is approved, so any income of mine is seemingly irrelevant. If my wife were to return to the US without me (which would obviously cause hardship between us) and get a job, how long would she be required to be employed before being eligible to be a sponsor and continue the immigration application?

This is all likely to significantly delay our approval, so I'd be thankful for any suggestions you could offer.

[Boiler 43,381]

I 134 but you mention your wife?

Find another joint sponsor.

[jeavgar 1]

My mistake (probably due to my stressed state). It's I-864, not I-134.

As already stated, a joint sponsor is not feasible at this stage.

Edited February 26, 2015 by jeavgar

[Boiler 43,381]

You said her parents would not do it, does not need to be her parents.

Or she goes back and gets a job.

[jeavgar 1]

You said her parents would not do it, does not need to be her parents.

I know, but it's a big ask of somebody. Will you be my sponsor?

Or she goes back and gets a job.

Yes, but for how long?

[Brewlin 52]

I have to say that is shoddy of her parents, they must think they will be held accountable economically somehow? I bet if they were reassured there are pretty much no risks involved, it'd be fine. Your wife need to pressure them a little. I wish you luck! I'm in a similar situation but my inlaws are more than happy to help us/me (i'm the applicant).

[Penguin_ie 5,984]

Three options:

- Cast your net wider. Ask other family, old neighbours, college room mates, church family, old friends etc. Yes it is awkward to ask, but it is better than your family being ripped apart, right?

- Wife returns first. How long she needs to work depends somewhat on the embassy- for some, a month of paystubs and a letter from the employer is enough. Others want a full tax return (rare).

- Sponsor on assets. If you have enough savings/ a second property/ 401K plan etc, you can use that, with a 3/1 ratio.

[mojorisin 5]

My brother double crossed us twice about being a joint sponsor for my wife. The first time when it was time to submit the joint sponsr, and the second time when he assured us he would joint sponsor us if my assets only would not be considered and the visa refused after the interview. We felt misled and lied to. So I know how you feel.

I would urge your wife to talk to her parents and explain the risk is minimal. If that does not work, ask a friend.

If your wife gets a job, I am not sure how long she has to be employed to then sponsor you herself. The U.S. consular's decision is subjective so maybe you contact the embassy you are dealing with and ask them.

Good luck!!

[jeavgar 1]

I have to say that is shoddy of her parents, they must think they will be held accountable economically somehow? I bet if they were reassured there are pretty much no risks involved, it'd be fine. Your wife need to pressure them a little. I wish you luck! I'm in a similar situation but my inlaws are more than happy to help us/me (i'm the applicant).

We've already pressured them. Her dad felt backed into a corner and is now consulting a lawyer. He doesn't believe the risks are minimal, he thinks this could result in him being financially ruined. What's frustrating isn't that he wants to see a lawyer but that he has left this right until the last minute when it's time to send in the application. We've been working on getting the form signed for months.

[jeavgar 1]

Thank you everybody for suggestions.

To make my father in law more comfortable, a solution may be for me to get my own travel medical insurance. Are there medical insurance options available for green card holders?

[Brewlin 52]

I hope he comes around for you... Once you have a SSN, you can use whichever health insurance you like.