Affidavit of support for a friend
 

Hello,

A friend of mine is asking me to fill an I-134 Affidavit of support for her dad in Pakistan. I have known her for quite a while now. She does not have enough income earned to support her dad herself so she asking me if i can be the Joint sponsor.
I want to know what are the risks of doing this? The form says that i would be supporting the person for 3 years, does that mean i would end up paying hospital bills if he goes to hospital and doesnt pay himself or any thing like that? just a bit concerned about it... Please help!

Thanks,

Sanna

Re: Affidavit of support for a friend
 

Hi Sanna,

It would mean you would be the 2nd person responsible for covering any means-tested benefits he might apply for. I don't think hospital bills are included in that. Also, as far as I know, the I-134 is not a legally binding contract, but the I-864 is. I'd be more concerned if it was an I-864 rather than an I-134. Is this for a visitor visa for her dad?

Rene

Re: Affidavit of support for a friend
 

Thanks Rene. This is for an immigration visa. She sponsered her dad. I am not sure if its I-134 or I-864.....

-Sana

Re: Affidavit of support for a friend
 

If it's for an immigrant visa, it's most likely the I-864. If that's the case (make sure you find out!), I'd be more wary of getting involved, unless you don't mind being legally financially responsible for your friend's dad for a very long time. It IS a legally binding contract between you and the US government. You might want to even check it out with an immigration attorney, as to its implications. This will be for his immigrant visa, so there won't even be a chance later on to remove your name from being his sponsor (as in an AOS case).

Just be careful. :)

Best Wishes,
Rene

Re: Affidavit of support for a friend
 

To add its a 3 way obligation, the Father can claim support from you as the joint Sponsor.