US Immigration from Philippines

Greetings Everyone,

I'm reaching out for guidance as I navigate "Step 4 - Affidavit of Support" in the visa process.

Please ask me any questions that will assist you in helping me navigate this step.

To provide some context, I moved to the Philippines 7 years ago with no plans of returning to the US. However, my family (wife + 2 children with US passports) and I are now excited about the prospect of moving to the US.

I have been employed by the same company since 2018 in the Philippines and use my sister s US address for mailing purposes, as I currently don't have a US residence.

In total, I have been with the parent company for 15 years, having worked both in the US and the Philippines.

Here s a detailed look at my situation:

• Income: I earn approximately $75,000 USD annually in the Philippines.
• Tax Filing: I ve consistently filed Federal tax returns every year since 2006 and have been filing joint returns with my wife since 2019.
• Assets: While I lack savings, I have a retirement plan worth about $25,000, which I plan to cash out upon resignation. Additionally, I will liquidate assets in the Philippines valued around $20,000. I don't have any assets in the US.
• Family: My wife is a homemaker, has no income, and does not plan to work upon moving to the US.
• Additionally, my wife currently holds a B1 visa for travel to the US. I am unsure how this might impact or assist with our current immigration process.

Here are my questions:

• Form Selection: Given my circumstances, is it more appropriate to file the I-864 instead of the I-864EZ? If I will file the I-864EZ. Condition 3 specifies that income must be shown on IRS Form W-2s, which I do not have due to my employment in the Philippines. I do possess the BIR Form 2316, the standard tax document here.
• Financial Sufficiency: Does my financial situation meet the sponsorship requirements, or should I consider having my sister or another family member complete a separate I-864 as a joint sponsor?
• Employment Contingency: My transfer back to a US-based position hinges on my wife's visa approval. I am not willing to move to the US without my family. How might this affect the affidavit process?
• Potential Issues: Are there any pitfalls or delays I should anticipate if I am the sole financial sponsor for my wife?
• Experiences and Advice: Has anyone else faced a similar situation? What steps did you take to ensure a smooth process?

I am looking forward to learn from those who have been through this or have expertise in visa-related matters.

Thank you in advance for your assistance!

Jeff.

I just noticed this CBP press release which sounds promising. They are directly saying you could process changes in citizenship status, passports and names by using their online web form rather than having to go in person to an Enrolment Center. That would definitely be a huge convenience if true. My wife and stepdaughter just tried. I'll update if they are successful or not.

from https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/cbp-enhances-trusted-traveler-programs-online-services

Quote

From the "Ask a Question" section, TTP members can now update documents such as visas, passports, and driver s licenses, process name changes due to marriage, divorce, or other legal circumstances, and update their citizenship status. The site also assists with general TTP inquiries, payment and fee-related questions, and login issues. For more information, CBP encourages everyone to explore the resources available on the CBP Help webpage at: https://www.help.cbp.gov/s/questions

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