Understanding Form I-864EZ: A Simplified Affidavit of Support

When sponsoring a family member for U.S. permanent residency, the paperwork can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, if you meet certain criteria, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides a streamlined option with Form I-864EZ, a simplified version of the Affidavit of Support. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Form I-864EZ, including who can use it, how to complete it, and what common mistakes to avoid.

What Is Form I-864EZ?

Form I-864EZ is a simplified Affidavit of Support used by petitioners who are sponsoring a relative for a family-based visa. The form is essentially a contract between the sponsor and the U.S. government, stating that the sponsor will provide financial support to the immigrant to prevent them from becoming a public charge. Form I-864EZ is only available for certain petitioners who meet specific qualifications.

Who Is Eligible to Use Form I-864EZ?

Not all petitioners can use Form I-864EZ. You are eligible to file this simplified version if you meet the following conditions:

• You are the sole sponsor of your relative.

• The visa petition is based on a relative's family-based petition (Form I-130).

• You are employed by a single employer in the United States, and your income alone meets or exceeds the required poverty guidelines.

If any of these conditions don’t apply to you, you’ll need to use the full version of Form I-864 instead.

Why Choose Form I-864EZ Over Form I-864?

The primary advantage of Form I-864EZ is its simplicity. It requires less documentation than the standard Affidavit of Support and is quicker to complete. You won’t have to provide extensive evidence like multiple sources of income or proof of joint sponsorship, which can significantly reduce the processing time.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing Form I-864EZ

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Documents

Before filling out Form I-864EZ, you’ll need to collect several documents, including:

• Your most recent tax return (and W-2 form if applicable).

• Proof of current employment (e.g., pay stubs or a letter from your employer).

• Identification documents (such as your U.S. passport or birth certificate).

Step 2: Complete the Form

Form I-864EZ is relatively straightforward. You will need to provide basic information, such as your full name, address, and employment details. You’ll also indicate your relationship to the immigrant and provide information about your income.

Step 3: Submit the Form

Once you’ve completed the form, you’ll submit it along with your family member’s visa application. Make sure you include all required documentation, as failure to do so can lead to delays.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Form I-864EZ

Like any immigration form, small errors on Form I-864EZ can lead to significant delays or even a denial. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

1. Misreporting Income

One of the most common errors on Form I-864EZ is reporting an incorrect income amount. Make sure you provide accurate information from your most recent tax return.

2. Forgetting to Attach Tax Returns

USCIS requires that you submit your most recent tax return with Form I-864EZ. Neglecting to do so can delay your application.

3. Failing to Meet the Poverty Guidelines

Before submitting Form I-864EZ, ensure that your income meets the minimum threshold required by the USCIS poverty guidelines. If it doesn’t, you will need to use the full version of Form I-864 and possibly find a joint sponsor.

How Long Does It Take to Process Form I-864EZ?

The processing time for Form I-864EZ can vary based on factors like the complexity of your case and the current backlog at USCIS. On average, you can expect a decision within 2-4 months after submission, although it may take longer if additional evidence is requested.

Can Form I-864EZ Be Used for Consular Processing?

Yes, Form I-864EZ can be used for both adjustment of status (for those applying from within the U.S.) and consular processing (for those applying from abroad). If your family member is abroad and you are filing for a family-based visa, you will submit the form to the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country as part of the consular processing package.

What Happens After Filing Form I-864EZ?

Once USCIS or the National Visa Center receives your Form I-864EZ, they will review it along with the other parts of the visa petition. If everything is in order, your family member will proceed to the next step in the immigration process, whether that be an interview, biometric screening, or final decision.

What to Do If Your Form I-864EZ Is Denied

If your Form I-864EZ is denied, it’s often because the information was incomplete or incorrect. You can appeal the decision by providing the requested information or by refiling the form with corrections. In some cases, you may need to submit the full Form I-864 instead.

How Form I-864EZ Affects Future Public Benefits

By signing Form I-864EZ, you are agreeing to financially support your relative if necessary, and you may be responsible for reimbursing the government for any public benefits they receive. This obligation typically lasts until your relative becomes a U.S. citizen, works for 40 qualifying quarters (10 years), or leaves the U.S. permanently.

Alternatives to Form I-864EZ

If you don’t qualify for Form I-864EZ, there are alternatives. You may need to use the standard Form I-864, which allows for joint sponsorship and provides more options for documenting income. In rare cases, certain petitioners may be exempt from filing an Affidavit of Support altogether.

Conclusion: Why Form I-864EZ Could Be Right for You

If you meet the qualifications, Form I-864EZ offers a faster, simpler way to fulfill your Affidavit of Support requirement. It’s a convenient option for those with straightforward cases, allowing you to support your loved ones in their immigration journey without navigating excessive paperwork.

If you’re unsure whether Form I-864EZ is the right form for you, consider consulting with an immigration attorney to ensure you’re on the right track.

Resources:

• Form I-864EZ Instructions

• USCIS Poverty Guidelines

• Fibi Law Firm - Expert Immigration Law Support

By understanding the process and ensuring accuracy, you can simplify your family member’s immigration journey and provide the support they need for a successful visa application.