I-134 filing questions

[Hamlet]

Thanks to all who responded helpfully to my question about the K1.  I will file the application in Nebraska tomorrow by mail.

Now I am working on the I-134, Affidavit of Support. I realize that it does not need to be submitted with the original application (although a lawyer who has a link on PL recommends doing so), but I am trying to get it ready for my fiance's interview.

I am self-employed.

The instructions say at IIC that if self-employed I can submit a copy of last year's tax return as evidence of income and nothing else.  But on the form itself at item 7 it reads: "I derive an annual income of (if self-employed, I have attached a copy of my last income tax return...which I certify to be true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.  See instructions for nature of evidence of net worth to be submitted.)"

However, as I mentioned, the instructions only ask for my tax return and do not mention anything about evidence of net worth.

What gives with this?

Also, in addition to the certified copy of birth certificate that my fiance must bring to the interview, will she need another such copy in the future for some filings from the US?

Thanks.

Hamlet

[Ray]

... in response to I-134 filing questions, posted by Hamlet on Nov 2, 2003

The instructions for the I-134 are sometimes a little vague. The I-134 itself is not legally binding but is optionally required by the consular adjudicator as a means of evaluating your financial situation to insure that the visa applicant has a visible means of support. The form itself is not of great importance if the supporting evidence tells them what they want to know. What they are really looking for is evidence of income, particularly income from employment. If your employment income is comfortably above the minimum requirements, then you don’t need to document any assets.

To further support your income evidence, I would recommend submitting copies of complete tax returns (with ALL attachments) for the past 3 years, or any other documents that show your income. I would carefully read over the instructions for the I-864 Affidavit of Support, which you will have to file later for her AOS, and try to meet those requirements for supporting evidence. That should hopefully keep them happy.

It would be a good idea for your fiancée to have several extra original certified copies of her birth certificate. It would be much easier for her to get them now rather than later. Most immigration petitions will allow you to submit photocopies, but you never know when you will need originals down the road. For example, soon after my wife arrived here, I had to submit an original certified BC with raised seal for her military dependent ID application.

Ray

[Hamlet]

... in response to Re: I-134 filing questions, posted by Ray on Nov 4, 2003

Thanks for all the useful information, Ray.

The instructions for the 864 are helpful.

Hamlet

[greg]

... in response to I-134 filing questions, posted by Hamlet on Nov 2, 2003

You find your sweetie yet? Hope all is well with you.