What criteria must a sponsor meet to file a Form I-864?

To file a Form I-864, which is the Affidavit of Support, a sponsor must demonstrate that they have adequate income or assets to support the intending immigrant. This is essential because the purpose of the Form I-864 is to ensure that the immigrant will not become a public charge. The sponsor must provide evidence of their financial capability, which typically includes meeting a specific income threshold relative to the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Having sufficient income or assets is crucial to affirming the sponsor's ability to provide for the immigrant's basic needs, including housing, food, healthcare, and other necessary expenses. The requirement emphasizes the responsibility of the sponsor to support the immigrant financially, thereby enhancing their integration into the community without the need for government assistance.

While ownership of a business, proof of citizenship, and employment history can provide context to the sponsor's financial situation, they are not mandatory criteria for completing the Form I-864. The primary focus is on the sponsor's actual income or available assets, which is the core criterion that must be satisfied to properly file the form.