Navigating the immigration process alone can be scary and challenging. In some cases, however, one may be coming to join a family member who previously immigrated to the United States or one who was born here. If this is the case, they may wonder how they can sponsor their loved one for immigration. Here is what potential sponsors should keep in mind.
What to Remember as a Sponsor
Sponsorship isn't always easy—it involves a great deal of paperwork and often takes many months to complete. It is recommended that you consult with an experienced immigration lawyer or other approved legal representative to make sure everything is done correctly. Additionally, it's important to remember that sponsors are financially responsible for the person they're sponsoring until they can become self-sufficient, so it's important to make sure you can afford the costs involved. There is a minimum income threshold to be eligible for sponsorship, which you can learn more about here.
When choosing to sponsor a relative, you must complete and submit Form I-130. Once all the paperwork has been submitted and approved, there are some steps that sponsors need to take. These include collecting financial documents of your family members as proof of income and providing evidence of the relationship with the person you are sponsoring. Additionally, sponsors must prove that they have enough financial resources to support their family members until they become eligible for public benefits.
Finally, sponsors should stay informed of any changes or updates to immigration laws and regulations, as well as any information regarding the status of their applications. This includes staying in contact with your lawyer or representative and checking the website of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Tampa Family Immigration Services
Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A. has been helping immigrant families achieve their American dream for over 40 years. Our attorneys have helped countless people with their family immigration matters and can help you through this process. Schedule a free case review today to discuss your options.
