Do I need a job to file for a K-1 visa?
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Having a job or income isn’t required at any point during the K-1 visa process. But you must still be able to pay all fees and find a joint sponsor for the I-134 Affidavit of Support.
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Not meeting financial requirements is one of the leading causes of K-1 visa denial at the interview. No kidding. It’s one of the top reasons people are turned away. And it’s partly because people are confused about income / job requirements.
Here are some of our typical confusions:
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- ○ Do you send an I-134 Affidavit of Support with your I-129F packet?
. - ○ Do you need to have a job/income to submit your I-129F petition?
. - ○ What happens if you’re suddenly fired (hired, quit or retire) before the K-1 visa interview?
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Confused petitioners stress out and fear they’re going to get denied. And end up making bad decisions. For example, some people wait months before filing the I-129F believing they need to have a job first (you don’t have to). Meanwhile they could’ve saved precious time and filed already.
My own example: when I graduated college and began working full-time in July, it was only half the year. That meant my tax returns only showed half the income. That got me worried about meeting requirements for my I-134. However, I did some research and found out what to do to avoid a denial. But, you can imagine my anxiety in the meantime.
So, let’s talk about income / job requirements in the K-1 visa process so you don’t make bad decisions either. And If you’re technical like me and curious to know where this law comes from, you can check here: Public Charge (INA 212(a)(4)).
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By the way, before we go further, let’s quickly define job / income: it’s any source of legal income such as employment, social security, stocks / dividends, royalties, assets, etc.
Alright, now let me break down the major points here:
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You don’t need to have/maintain a job during your fiance K-1 visa process
Here’s the golden rule: You don’t need to have a job / income at all during the entire K-1 visa process. As long as you can pay the fees and use a joint sponsor, you’re all set.
Picture this: you’re a college student working part-time (or not at all) and want to sponsor your foreign fiance for a K-1 visa. Do you have to graduate and find a full-time job before filing? Meaning, are you stuck waiting until you start working and make minimum income? Or can you file the I-129F now and figure it out later?
Now, picture this: what if you’re already working full-time but switch jobs (or get fired) during your fiance visa process. Is this a problem? What will they ask at the interview? and what do you do?
Finally, imagine that you start the I-129F without a job, but now you land a job / income — what do you do now? Do you have to tell them anything?
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Should I wait to find a job, then file my fiance’s I-129F?
If you’re unemployed, should you wait to land a job before you file the I-129F?
That’s not necessary; but it’s up to you. Keep in mind, as long as you can pay the fee, that’s all that matters at this point. They only look at your financials during the K-1 visa interview several months later. So, you have time to think of a solution.
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► Example
You don’t make the minimum income requirements before submitting the I-129F. However, you’ll find a full-time (or higher-paying) job soon. Should you wait to file to improve your chances of approval?
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Well, no. You can file the I-129F to get the process going. And between now and until your interview (several months later), you land a job that meets minimum poverty limits (I-864p) just like how I did. Otherwise, you have the option to use a joint sponsor (like a parent/relative) for the K-1 visa interview.
And NO, having a job while filing the I-129F doesn’t improve your chances of approval (but it does matter for the K-1 visa interview).
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And, don’t make the mistake of submitting the I-134 now, either. It’s simply NOT required in your I-129F paperwork. In fact, nothing about financials is asked for. Unless there’s a rare chance the USCIS asks you about it with an RFE (rare).
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Do I need to have a job before the K-1 visa interview?
The US Embassy’s instructions say your fiance must bring an I-134 Affidavit of Support to prove he/she will be taken care of financially in the US.
Here’s a bunch of scenarios that a lot of people are in:
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- ► Example: if you haven’t graduated or you’re still looking for a job, how can you comply with income requirements? (answer: use a joint sponsor or show other income – such as dividends, social security, assets, royalties, etc.)
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- ► Example: let’s say you graduate and find a job, can you become the primary sponsor even though you weren’t working when you filed the I-129F? (answer: yes, fill out the I-134 with your latest job / income information)
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- ► Example: What if you’re already working but find a better-paying job, can you become the primary sponsor instead of relying on a joint sponsor? (answer: yes, again, fill out the I-134 with your latest job / income information)
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YOU, yourself, don’t need to have a job or income for the K-1 interview. An eligible joint sponsor can usually replace you and show income support with the I-134 (granted it meets minimum poverty limits).
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What if I get fired, retire, or switch jobs during the K-1 visa process?
For any big event — like getting fired, switching jobs or even retiring — you don’t immediately have to inform the USCIS or US Embassy about it. Here’s a look at what you need to do and the different stages of your K-1 visa process.
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- ► Before you file the I-129F petition. Any job event like firing, retirement, or switching, doesn’t need to be disclosed. You only inform the USCIS about your current employment situation in the I-129F forms — whether you’re employed or unemployed.
Again, they’re not asking for proof of income/job at this point. They simply want to know your current employment situation.
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- ► After you file the I-129F petition. Any job event after you submit your I-129F doesn’t need to be immediately given to the USCIS or US Embassy.
The only real step you take is to update your information when the time comes to file the DS-160 form online. Then, you collect your financial proof for the I-134 in preparation for the k-1 interview.
Remember that because you have a job event, some of your older documents (like tax returns, etc.) won’t accurately reflect your new employment status. That’s why you should bring an employment verification letter along with the I-134 Affidavit of Support.
If all else fails, you always have the option of using a joint sponsor.
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Should I use a joint sponsor even if I make enough?
You should try to be the primary sponsor yourself and avoid potential issues with using a joint sponsor. Embassy Officers like to see US petitioners taking on the responsibility.
If you make close to minimum, I advise having a joint sponsor as a backup. In other words, if you make just enough to match the 125% limits of the I-864p, you should consider having a joint sponsor in case the Officer isn’t satisfied with your income.
Most of the time joint sponsors are acceptable for the I-134. Sometimes you can have problems:
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- ► Joint sponsors may not be allowed. Some Embassies don’t allow joint sponsors or it may be on a case-by-case basis. So, you may be stuck and have to be the primary and figure out how to comply.
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- ► Joint sponsors may be rejected. Interestingly, US Embassy officers can reject eligible joint sponsors if they feel that the sponsor won’t fulfill the responsibility of financially supporting the K-1 beneficiary.
It based on how convinced the Consular Officer is with the relationship between the joint sponsor and your fiance. Is it a close relation or just a “friend”? Is the sponsor likely to uphold his/her end of the deal?
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Does my K-1 visa beneficiary need a job?
There’s no requirement for your fiance to have a job, income, bank balance or even an education for that matter. As long as he/she meets all k-1 visa eligibilities (no immigration violations, no listed criminal history, etc), that’s enough.
But, if you fiance is working, then there’s a chance you may be able to use his/her income as part of your I-134 if you’re having trouble meeting requirements yourself. However, that’s on a case-by-case basis.
And not everyone is allowed to use their foreign fiance’s job/income as a source. The rule is that the income source must stay the same after moving to the US in order for the beneficiary’s job to be considered.
As a general rule of thumb: use your beneficiary’s job/income/bank balance as a last resort because you never know if it’ll be approved by the Embassy.
I hope that clarifies confusion regarding having a job/income for the K-1 visa process. Remember, having a job/income is not required as long as you can pay the visa fees and find a joint sponsor willing/able to help.
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Have questions about job/income requirements during the K-1 visa process? Let’s talk about it below…
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Hi, I’m Prem…
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December 6, 2021 at 7:21 pm on I-129F petition Fiance visa – Part 8 Additional informationI don't know if I'm missing something, but I keep seeing references to your "Course"...[click to read more]- December 1, 2021 at 7:39 pm on Form I-864 Instructions (K visa holders)For the I-864 form, I am the US sponsor for my newly married husband. You...[click to read more]
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I have a question about the entry into the US. Does my fiance have to depart from the country which issues the visa. For example if she lives and works in Country A, her visa interview will be held and issued in Country A. After receiving the visa can she visit country B (her home country) and from there fly to the States? Basically we want to visit her family in her country before flying to the states using a K1 visa.
Hello Sash,
In most instances that is allowed and it doesn’t matter where the origin is. The K visa is a one-time use visa for “entry” into the US (regardless of where you are flying in from). However, please take other factors into consideration, including COVID travel rules from “country B” to the US, and so on.
-Prem
Hello so my sponsor didn’t make enough last year to meet the poverty guidelines for K1 visa. He has been working at a permanent job for about three months now that makes twice as much as the poverty guidelines will we be good with just the job
Hello Dee.
Thanks for getting in touch with us.
So, it is highly recommended that you forward a history of the last 3 years to show consistency of income.
It would be a good idea if your fiancé could use assets as a complement since only recently he got back to having a steady job.
Cris (Visa Tutor Team)
You wrote:
you’re not required to have a job / income during the k-1 visa process. As long as you can pay the fees and find a joint sponsor, you’re good to go (but this depends on the embassy’s specific rules, too).
What about ASSETS?
Thomas,
that’s also considered part of your income or assets. If you’re a primary sponsor, you may use your job/income or assets to qualify for the I-134. You should read the article on the I-134 for further details on how to prepare it.
-Prem
Hi there, I have a question in regards to the time frame after the K1 interview.
So, I am the petitioner and original supporter for the I-134. I quit my job a week before my fiancé’s scheduled flight to the US. He’s already past the K1 interview and has his visa in hand, now he just needs to enter the United States so we can get married. My job was starting to affect my health, so I decided to quit. I am actively applying to other jobs, but I am a little concerned if this will affect his ability to enter/stay in the US. If I don’t have a new job by the time we need to file the I-485, I have a solid joint sponsor ready, so that shouldn’t be a problem. I’m just hoping that since we were already approved at the K1 interview and he has the visa, that he will be able to enter into the United States without issue until we need to file the I-485… but I’m not 100% sure.
Any information on this would be appreciated. Thanks!
Hello Carly,
Once the visa is issued, your partner may enter the US. Once you get married and are ready to apply for the I-485, you may get a joint sponsor. There’s no requirement to maintain a job once the K visa is issued. Just be sure you have a joint sponsor to help with the Green Card process.
-Prem
Hello, I am very thankful to find this website with plenty of useful information. As a petitioner, I am the only one who does all paper work, correct? My fiance only has get preprare for interview. I was wondering if he has to file any document at some time of the process?
I really appreciate your time.
Thank you in advance!
Best,
Leidy Astudillo
Hello Leidy,
Thanks for reaching out. Primarily, the US petitioner must gather documents and prepare the I-129F. The beneficiary may have to provide some input, if necessary. Other times, the beneficiary definitely has to provide documentation. The Letter of intent to marry, for instance, must be signed by you both. So, this is an example of one where your partner will need to provide it. Other times, he or she will only need to provide documentation if need be. For example, if your partner has ever had a legal name change, then these documents are required. These are just examples. I suggest you download my I-129F checklist to make sure you’ve got all that you need. In addition, you can join our course or program for more in-depth help. I hope this helps!
-Prem
Hi Prem,
I am appreciating your help and suggestions. I am going on unpaid maternity leave around the same time my fiance will go for the interview. I made double the rate necessary and will have my job after I take my maternity leave but my job won’t pay me as I recover from the birth and take some time with my baby.
Will I need a co-sponsor because of this or will my fiance be able to explain the lack of income in those months in his interview and in our adjustment of status application?
Your articles have been so helpful, thank you! I submitted my I-129F in Feb 2020, and received confirmation from lockbox that it was accepted. I recently lost my job during the corona pandemic and since my mom works at a hospital in a coronavirus wing I thought it would be best to stay home longer. I am not claiming unemployment but I am going to go back to school full time next semester with FAFSA (which will be the first time I will be able to take full time classes since I’ve always worked and studied before) having said that, now I’m worried that if our application is approved in “x” months I might not be able to find a job that could replace my previous income, or that would be flexible with my full school schedule. I submitted my I-134 with my I-129F, and I was content with that until I read this article. Should I be worried? Is my only real option now to get a joint sponsor? (I was really trying to avoid that)
Thank you for your time in advance!
Hello Karolina. It’s great to hear that the articles have been feeding you with the important information you need for the process.
if you are not employed by the time your fiancé has an interview scheduled with the US Embassy, then, unless you have assets and savings that show you meet the minimum financial requirements, you’ll need a joint sponsor.
And, by the way, the I-134 Form has to be presented at the day of the in-person interview with all the supporting documents to prove that the petitioner will be financially responsible for the fiancé, not allowing them to become a public charge.
Here’s another article you will find very helpful while preparing for the next steps:
https://www.visatutor.com/k-1-fiancee-visa-affidavit-support-form-134/
-Cris (Visa Tutor Team)
Hi, thank you for article. My scenario is this, I want file my i134, but I am planning to quit my job a few weeks before the interview. I am doing this because of personal reason against my work place, but really I want the time off to be with my fiance. Is that a smart thing to do? Should stay the course and keep my job until she’s in the states?
Hey Tin,
That’s an important decision for you to make. You see, the I-134 can be submitted by someone who is currently (at the time of the interview) employed with enough income or has enough assets to support the incoming fiance. If you quit your job, you may not be able to sponsor your partner unless you use enough assets to overcome public charge. Currently, most consulates are closed because of the covid-19 issue. Is your interview postponed / canceled?
-Prem
Hello,
Great article! I did have one question pertaining to starting a new job-
If I just graduated and started a job that meets the income requirements, there is no requirement that I have held that job for a certain period of time?
I graduate in May and begin my job in August of this year, but my w-2 for last year and this year will reflect income below the required amount.. however, monthly income projected forward for a full year would put me well-above the requirements.. So if I prove I have been working at a job for a few months that would satisfy the yearly income requirement, is that enough? I don’t have to show I have already earned the required amount – just that I am in a position to earn the required amount, right?
I really appreciate this resource! Thanks in advance!
James, thanks for contacting us.
As part of the I-134 to show applicants meet the requirements, it’s advisable that you join pay stubs and the three most recent tax return, as you are going to read in these articles I selected for you to get educated on the topic:
https://www.visatutor.com/my-top-5-tips-for-the-i-134-in-your-fiance-k-1-visa/. Item#3 here explains the official rules in the topic.
https://www.visatutor.com/4-problems-of-the-i-134-aos-that-lead-to-k-1-visa-denials/ #3 explains what sort of remedies exist for “tax return” issues.
https://www.visatutor.com/fiance-visa-totality-of-circumstances-not-only-your-i-134-affidavit-of-support/
And here is the USCIS link to form I-134 Affidavit of support.
https://www.uscis.gov/system/files_force/files/form/i-134instr.pdf?download=1
To sum up, you are going to have to prove that your current employment is above the minimum amount (yearly). And if your tax returns don’t show the full amount of the year, you will have to get a letter of employment from your job to show your annual salary is above the minimum.
-Cris (Visa Tutor Team)
Thanks do much Prem these emails that you send daily are so helpful and make me feel A little more secure in my filing. However I sm getting ready to take the course with you so i Can be less stressed during this process.
Can you fill out the I 29 before you are ready to file it officially? How do you obtain a copy?
Stephanie, we do appreciate your contacting us.
By visiting the USCIS website, you find the form and instructions:
https://www.uscis.gov/i-129f
Download, print out a copy and practice the answers in the form before officially starting the process on your own.
It’s really a very good idea of yours to make some time to go over it.
The more prepared you are, the better it is.
-Cris (Visa Tutor Team)
Hi- thank you for this article, it is very helpful. I am currently unemployed right now because I’m traveling with my fiancé but I will eventually return to the US and find a job. I want to start the paperwork process as you’ve recommended but am wonderingly what I should put as the current employer. Would I put none? I have enough money in my bank account to support us both.
Additionally I do have family that has their own business in the US. If I were to claim to be employed by them, would they verify those details in anyway? Thank you!
Carolyn, hello and thanks for writing to us.
When filing I-129F, you don’t necessarily need to be employed.
So, you don’t have to make up employment to make your employment history look positive. However, for your fiancé’s interview, you will have to meet the income requirements when presenting form I-134 (Affidavit of Support)in order to prove you have means to support your household.
Hope it may have helped you.
-Cris (Visa Tutor Team)
Hello guys I’m really puzzled right now because I’m supposed to mail the affidavit of support along with other documents to the embassy in Cairo before scheduling an interview, we want to use my uncle ( me as in the beneficiary ) as a joint sponsor since me and my fiancee are moving in with him to NY because he found me a job and is helping us by staying at his place until I adjust my status . but most importantly because my fiancee the petitioner has only started working in March since before that she had to take care of her very ill father for years before he passed away and she’s 25.
so even though she started working in March she won’t be able to meet the 100% minimum requirement I think, because she makes 10$ an hour working 60 hours a week or more on average ( since she’s a housekeeper and it always depends ) so that won’t be adequate will it? , but my uncle doesn’t even fully make the 100% minimum requirement he’s like 300$ short or something since he has 3 dependents.
And unfortunately we don’t have enough time to find another joint sponsor so my question is should we go ahead with my uncle as the joint sponsor or without a joint sponsor at all?
I’m so sorry for the lengthy question but we’re really freaking out since we’ve been together for 7 years and we need to finally start a new life together, what should I do?
Hello Abdallah,
Thanks for contacting us.
As you may have read in Prem’s articles about the AOS, it is one important part of the interview day.
If the income itself is not enough to meet the requirements, assets are a good way to show the officers that you will be able to support the beneficiary.
Read more in the following link:
https://www.visatutor.com/k-1-fiancee-visa-affidavit-support-form-134/
It is not advisable not to present this important form. And as you‘ve explained, your fiancée does not meet the minimum requirements, so, for cases like that, the USCIS gives the applicants an opportunity to find a sponsor.
-Cris (Visa Tutor Team)
I’m the one that’s going to move, so I’ll end up quitting my job when the time comes anyway. My partner living in the States will have the affidavit of support for us… I was just asking because in a previous comment Prem talked about the public charge thing when I mentioned my sick leave and if that would look bad to them even though I’m the beneficiary.
“I’ve never been dependent on money from the government except during this sick leave. Before that I’ve been able to study and/or work full time. My prognosis is good, and I’ve never tried to commit suicide or have scars anywhere on my body from hurting myself or anything like that. I’ve been getting treatment at an out patient clinic (I’ve never been hospitalized!) and I don’t need to see my psychologist as often anymore and I’ve also started to get off my medications (for depression and anxiety) which is going well. The plan is for me to start working 50 % by December, so everything is pretty much going forward. By the time I get the visa and am ready to move I should be finished with my treatment altogether and hopefully I’ll be off all of my medications as well. I’m about to start the process of getting a licence to work as a nurse in Illinois where we’ll be living, so the plan is definitely for me to work. Perhaps part time in the beginning, though, we’ll see. But either way, with the affidavit of support we’re pretty much saying that I wouldn’t be depending on the government for money or anything like that anyway… and my fiancé has never had any problems economically which should indicate to them that we’ll be okay, right?”
This is where I’m at now. Should this situation matter to them when I go to my medical or interview or anything like that? I’m sure my doctor can write a statement or something too if that’s needed, and like I said… my fiancé has a job and he will support us. I want to work too, though, but that’s a different story.
Hey Eem,
There’s always a possibility that they may read your previous dependency on public aid as a potential situation when you come to the US. Hard to predict, though. All we can say is that they may investigate the case in every possible way before having a final say.
-Cris (Visa Tutor Team)
Hello again,
I’m wondering if you have any thoughts or tips or anything on my previous comment about my medical history in relation to the sick leave and my ability to work? I would really appreciate anything you might have to say about that or if you know anything of other peoples experiences concerning this.
Hello Eem,
Thanks for writing us.
About your sick leave, it shouldn’t be a problem.
I remember you saying about working part-time when you get back to work, right?
So, make sure your income is going to meet the requirements needed to support your partner.
-Cris (Visa Tutor Team)
Oh, and another thing… At the top of the page at https://www.uscis.gov/greencard/public-charge it says that USCIS can’t implement this rule anywhere in the United States due to judges orders. So what does this mean for the Public Charge? They can use it or they can’t? Or they just can’t use it right now?
Eem,
the new public charge (active October 15, 2019) was blocked by US courts and cannot be implemented within the US by USCIS. However, the department of State (the ones who run the US Embassy and issue visas) are not bound by the block. They can (and claim to) be implementing the new public charge policy during the visa interviews. This is causing a stir among the government. We don’t know if the DOS will follow this new block or go forward with their own agenda. That’s why I said, it’s an unpredictable time for public charge.
-Prem
Thank you for answering so quickly, Prem!
I assume you meant the link in the text about Public Charge? If so I read it and tried to understand what they mean. I’ve never been dependent on money from the government except during this sick leave. Before that I’ve been able to study and/or work full time. My prognosis is good, and I’ve never tried to commit suicide or have scars anywhere on my body from hurting myself or anything like that. I’ve been getting treatment at an out patient clinic (I’ve never been hospitalized!) and I don’t need to see my psychologist as often anymore and I’ve also started to get off my medications (for depression and anxiety) which is going well. The plan is for me to start working 50 % by December, so everything is pretty much going forward. By the time I get the visa and am ready to move I should be finished with my treatment altogether and hopefully I’ll be off all of my medications as well. I’m about to start the process of getting a licence to work as a nurse in Illinois where we’ll be living, so the plan is definitely for me to work. Perhaps part time in the beginning, though, we’ll see. But either way, with the affidavit of support we’re pretty much saying that I wouldn’t be depending on the government for money or anything like that anyway… and my fiancé has never had any problems economically which should indicate to them that we’ll be okay, right?
My fiancé has recently sent in the I-129F, has a job and should be able to be the primary sponsor. I read here that it shouldn’t matter if I don’t have a job or any saved up money or anything like that. But my question is if it will look bad if I’m currently on sick leave? I’m a nurse and I have a job… but I’m still only working 25 % after having been on full time sick leave for several years due to PTSD, anxiety and depression. I should be able to work normally in the future, but there’s no proof of that(?)… Will this matter as long as we have the affidavit of support? After all… I want the visa so that I can marry my fiancé and be with him and not so that I can make a career in the States. So it shouldn’t matter… right?
Hi Eem,
That’s a very interesting question and to be frank, no one knows the answer to that. You see, the officers may take into account the “totality of circumstances” for your K-1 visa case. In here, according to the new “Public charge” law, officers have the flexibility to interpret several situations as they see fit — health being one of them. So, I suggest you read up on the link I’ve just provided and then get back to me about how you see yourself in this situation.
It’s very important to get this right — especially since Trump has been bent on curbing immigration. As you know, I don’t like to ruffle up emotions with negativity (I shoot very straight and offer factual evidence) but this “public charge” situation may get interesting in the future and very unpredictable. How has Trump affected the Fiancé K-1 visa process?
-Prem
Hello kind Sir ,
I have a question:
I am the petitioner. My fiancee has a scheduled interview on September 6 2019. I was previously employed but quit my job in May 2019 because I got a better job offer ( Sep 23 2019). I went to spend time with my fiancee in her home country for 2 months because she is pregnant.
In DS 160 application I put I was employed in occupation ” Business”
What should I put in I-134 Affidavit of support as far as occupation? Employed , not employed. I have an official job offer letter and a start date Sept 23 2019.
Would the immigration officer make a big deal because I put employed in DS160 but im not yet employed
Hello Victor
When you filled out form I-129F you referred to your previous job, correct?
Sometimes people find better offers, just like you, during the process and it’s not a problem for the rest of the process.
You may need to use other proofs of income since you haven’t started in this new job yet.
I’d also include this new job offer letter, though. This way, they’d see you have a better plan.
However, as anything related to the process, it’s totally up to them to use their discretion in a decision.
If you haven’t yet, read more here:
https://www.visatutor.com/do-i-need-a-job-to-file-for-a-k-1-visa/
-Cris (Visa Tutor Team)
Hi,
This may be a dumb question but I am confused, if I need a joint sponsor do I send the affidavit with my petition or is that form only required for the interview? I don’t want my case to be denied because of insufficient funds when the petition is sent for review.
Thanks
Hello Kaz,
Form I-134 (affidavit of support) must be presented on the day of the interview, even in situations you have a co-sponsor.
-Cris (Visa Tutor Team)
Question please do we send our original hotel receipt and bording pass with I 129 package or photocopy thanks
Hey Moses,
normally photocopies are acceptable for documents. Unless the USCIS specifically asks for originals otherwise, it’s safe to submit photocopies.
-Prem
I don’t understand why you said I have pass 2 years limit? I went to African April 24 2017 and we are together till May 22 I taught if I can still filled before that May 22 I’m still good please what did you think about that thanks
Moses,
If you last saw your fiance in May of 2017, you’re cutting very close to the 2-year limit. Even though you would technically be eligible to file the I-129F, realistically the USCIS and US Embassy would want fresh evidence that you’ve met. I highly suggest you don’t risk submitting your I-129F if you’re right up on the 2-year limit. It’s best to meet again before filing.
-Prem
QUESTIONS According to 2019 income requirements AND 125% poverty guidelines. I make $28,000 in 2018 before tax deduction did I qualify to sponsor my fiance or I should find joint sponsor thanks
Moses,
that depends on a number of things including your household size, your ‘totality of circumstances’, and work status. Normally, if you’re right above the 125%, then it’s enough for most couples. I suggest you read more on this topic. You can start here https://www.visatutor.com/my-top-5-tips-for-the-i-134-in-your-fiance-k-1-visa/
-Prem
QUESTIONS According to 2019 income requirements AND 125% poverty guidelines. I make $28,000 in 2018 before tax deduction did I qualify to sponsor my fiance or I should find joint sponsor thanks
Hello sir, Please I have Questions? I have been dating my fiance since 2012 and I travel to united states 2013 and I become citizen this year, but we don’t have any pictures together until when I went home again in 2017 we spend 4 weeks together and we have pictures for only that 2017 We Also have proof of chatting on Facebook since 2015, And i want to know what they mean by within 2 years? Because i travel in april 2017 and this is April 2019 and I’m planning to get started May this hope we still good? please How did you want me to build my case? Is that ok for me? thanks
Moses,
The 2-year limit means that you must have met one another (face to face) within the last 2 years before filing the I-129F. If you last met each other in April 2017, then you’ve past the 2-year mark. You will have to meet again before you file the I-129F.
If you need help filling out your paperwork, you’re encouraged to browse this website for all instructions and guidance. If your particular question isn’t answered, after you’ve researched, then you can post a comment / question.
-Prem
Hi Prem,
I’m the petitioner. My fiancé works has his own small business in his country, however he doesn’t file taxes for his income and it’s not registered anywhere. Will this be a problem for us? I assume that details about my fiance’s employment are asked on the I-119f form for the purpose of a background check, but since this is informal employment, how will they react to it? Thanks, L
Hello L,
Normally the US Embassy doesn’t ask the beneficiary for proof of employment or proof of paying taxes. The I-129F and DS-160 information is meant for background checks and verification purposes. I doubt they will ask for a business registry, his tax information or other such things.
-Prem
Hello I’m planning to file fiancé visa for my boyfriend in the Macau we have a son, my son and I are here in the u.s.But unfortunately I don’t have a work yet and almost done with college. I couldn’t work yet since my mom is working nobody is going to take care of my son. Is it still possible to get approved in this situation? Thank you so much
Hello there,
As you’ve just read in this post, yes you’re allowed to petition your fiance even if you’re not working. You should be able to get a joint sponsor (your mother) assuming she qualifies as a joint sponsor to have her fill out the I-134 when the time comes for his interview.
-Prem
Sorry, one more follow-up question!
So you said that it is my choice to either be the primary sponsor or use a joint sponsor, but I am now wondering if I can be the primary sponsor and fill out the I-134 form PLUS send a joint sponsor as a “just in case” type of deal just to be safe or is that unnecessary do you think?
Thank you again Prem!
That’s one strategy that I recommend. It’s good to have a back up plan in case the embassy objects to you being the primary sponsor for some reason even though technically you’re eligible. Yes, go ahead.
-Prem
Thank you so much Prem! your posts and reply have really put my mind at ease!
Glad to help.
-Prem
Hi, thank you so much for this post.
My fiance’s interview is coming up next month and I have been unemployed because i have just graduated from university abroad (never paid taxes before either so no IRS tax returns) and was planning on having my father be used as the joint sponsor. However, I recently got a job and will be getting my first paycheck before my fiance’s interview. Would it be safer to still use my father as a joint sponsor or would it be better for myself to fill out the i134 form as the primary sponsor?
Hey Judy,
I’m glad this post help. If you’re a recent graduate, you’re allowed to be the primary sponsor assuming you can show that your current “salary” is above the required amount. You can do so in the form of using your current employment verification letter. You also have the option of using a joint sponsor (your father) for help. Both choices are yours. You will find more information here (#3) https://www.visatutor.com/my-top-5-tips-for-the-i-134-in-your-fiance-k-1-visa/
And if you need help filling out the I-134 perfectly consider taking the K-1 visa interview course, Judy.
-Prem
I have been a full time graduate student for the past 2 years and the last income tax I filed was from 2016. I get large check deposits from my financial aid twice a year, fall and spring, that technically exceeds 100% poverty level. This will continue for the next 2 years until I graduate and can work full time. With joint sponsors, how will this financial state affect chances of K1 approval? Thank you.
Hello Abena,
Do you pay taxes on that income? in my opinion since the loans / student aid are temporary sources of income, they will not count toward your income. I think a joint sponsor would probably suit you better without knowing much of the details.
-Prem
hello sir i am in trouble while filling for I 134 form for fiancee visa. I have heard i need to meet minimum poverty line; which is $ 16460 to finance my fiancee to enter into U.S. but i only have $11820.00 annual income in 2018 and have $15000 to $20,000 in my bank account. plz give me a best suggestion to file I 134. Should i file with co sponsor or i am good to file on my own? hope for ur soon rpy.
Hey Paul,
If you don’t meet the minimum on your own, you can either (1) use a joint sponsor or (2) use assets to make up the difference between your income and the 100% minimum required. You can read all about it in the following articles
https://www.visatutor.com/k-1-fiancee-visa-affidavit-support-form-134/
or https://www.visatutor.com/my-top-5-tips-for-the-i-134-in-your-fiance-k-1-visa/
and https://www.visatutor.com/i-134-joint-sponsors-for-fiance-k-1-visa/
-Prem
Hi, I am the petitioner. Because my fiance and I have both lived in China for 5 years I don’t have income or bank statements from the U.S. ( only from within China) . My parents will be the joint sponsor and are filling out all the tax forms , affidavit of support and financial forms…my question is … If i have no income and recent banks statements within the U.S. and since my parents are going to be the joint sponsors , do i still need to fill out all of these forms as well? or is it ok if only the joint sponsor fills out the forms?
Hello Bri,
That’s a very good (and common question) and the answer is that it depends.
For most cases, yes. But some Embassies have different rules for filing an I-134. Some recommend that the petitioner file even if there was no income on taxes. Some don’t expect the US petitioner to file if he/she didn’t have an income. You have to check the Embassy rules. However, just to be safe, do the following:
Check the Embassy’s instructions first then email the US embassy regarding your K-1 visa. Experience says that you (petitioner) should ALWAYS provide a I-134 for the Interview. Regardless if it’s not required, you have a joint sponsor, you don’t have an income, or you didn’t file taxes, etc. Always fill it out and bring it with all supporting documents. What’s the worst that can happen? They say “no thanks, we don’t need it”.
Hope this helps.
-Prem
Hi Prem,
I understand from reading your website that it is not a good idea for my fiancé to attempt visiting the US during the K1 visa process. I am just about to send my I-129F packet out. I just want to make sure before doing so that it would still be okay for me to visit him in his country (England), as I have already purchased flights for October 2018. Is there a possibility that I may be turned away in England due to the pending K1? I should note that I do have a full time & per diem job & own a home in the US.
We visit each other about every 3 months or so I don’t know if we could bare being apart the entire time the K1 is pending, especially if it could take up to 7-9 mos. Also can we meet up in different, neutral countries? TIA for your advice! This website has been incredible resource for us!
Hello Tanya,
The US petitioner isn’t restricted in any way from visiting your fiance’s country. In fact, it’s a benefit to visit each other as it helps your bona fide relationship evidence. So, feel free to visit him (assuming you’re following UK immigration rules, of course). Your I-129F submission has no affect on your entry into the UK. These are two separate things.
You’re also allowed to visit each other in a different country. More visitations = generally better for your case. Glad to help, and if you like the website, please help spread the word on social media
-Prem
How much money is needed to be used as assets in case that the petitioner lose their job during fiancee visa interview. I’m afraid that my company is closing locations and I might lose my job. I have about saving account, stocks and I have half equity of my financed house. How much money is enough to sponsor my fiancee without using a co-sponsor?
Also what is the co-sponsor liability in I-134 and the co-sponsor liability in I-864 form
Thank you so much in advance for the information you provide here
Hello Dave,
You can use assets to make up the difference. Generally the value is 1/5 of net value. You can read about it here https://www.visatutor.com/k-1-fiancee-visa-affidavit-support-form-134/
If you decide to go with a joint sponsor, the requirements are still the same. The joint sponsor must be able to provide the 100% of poverty limits during the K visa interview.
-Prem
Hi Prem,
This website is wonderful. I’ve filled out my I-129 using using your tutorial video and it was incredibly helpful!
Here’s my worry: I will start working soon, but my job’s start date is pending an initial background check. My income will be significantly over the poverty line cutoff, but I’m not sure I will start working in time to make that amount during this fiscal year. My fiance is Moroccan, and we have a friend who did a K-1 last year. She said that they required tax returns showing income above the poverty line and wouldn’t accept pay stubs and a letter from her employer, so they had to use a sponsor. I have no option for a sponsor. Do you know about embassies requiring tax returns showing over $18,000 income in the previous year, even if one’s job makes quite a bit above that amount?
This is a huge stressor for me, and I’m not sure what I can do but pray my job starts soon.
Hey Becky,
I’m glad to hear that this website has made your journey easier. I have to admit the I-134 is an untamed animal. Regardless of the instructions and what “typically” happens, the officers are always in charge of reviewing your financial paperwork and making a decision based on that. Technically, none of these things (bank statements, paystubs, etc.) are required. The real requirement is that you convince the officers that you’re financially sound to take care of the beneficiary. Up to the officer’s discretion is whether or not that means you have to show them tax returns. I can’t say for sure if the same will happen to you case as your friend has experienced. But the best you can do is to have all these documents ready when the time comes. Every case is unique. If you’re confident you’ll have above the poverty limits to show during the interview, then it may be a non-issue. However, if you won’t be above the limits, then you’ll have to supplement your case with additional proof.
-Prem
Hi,
My fiancé doesn’t have a job as such but earns a living through rental income from real estate that he owns. He earns above the poverty limit. Would this be suitable for the I-134?
His assets are also above the earnings thresholds although the building he owns is a multi unit building and he lives in one of the units within the buildings. Would he be able to put this down as assets?
Thanks,
Lyn
Hello Lyn,
Yes, having rental income is disclosed on your fiance’s tax returns. I’m assuming he claims all the rental income. In which case, it’ll be listed as his income. You may use that for your I-134 AOS. If he owns the building, then it would also be listed as an asset. Although most of this information is a guess unless we see his actual tax returns and figure it out. But from the sound of it, he should be able to petition you for the K visa.
-Prem
Okay so I am needing some guidance here. I don’t see that this is a problem, but wanting to add ease of mind.
I have a simliar question but different at the same time. Evidence of support for the I-134 form require bank accounts, etc.
Let me say up front that my salary alone can support my fiance.
I have a bank account that has my money in it, but it’s been under my father’s account name for over 11 years. I was going to pull it out soon and move it to another account but never did. When I go to get the statements for the previous year it just has my father’s name on the statement’s and just my account nick name next to my account. I recently moved my funds to another account which shows my name on it. However, I have no previous year transactions because I moved it. What steps should I potentially take to avoid interview issues for my fiance IF this will even be a problem, because again my salary alone can support her. If this is confusing, let me know and I will try to explain further.
Hey Celeb,
As far as the Embassy officers are concerned, if the bank statement has your father’s name on it, then they will take that as his bank account; not yours. Secondly, officers are on the lookout for bank accounts that “suddenly” get a large deposit in it — even if it’s your own, it’s going to take a bit of convincing to show them that it’s your money and that you’re not just trying to make your financials “look better”. So, if I were you, I would avoid this mess altogether otherwise you might lose credibility in front of them.
Secondly, if your tax returns and current job are enough to sponsor your fiance, then you won’t need to worry about the bank statements, as that’s a secondary support evidence. If your tax returns didn’t show enough income then the officers would try to look at secondary evidence to make a decision — such as a bank statement. I think you’ll be fine.
-Prem
Hi Prem!
I have already filed our I-129 petition, and am preparing for my fiance’s interview in London. When I filed the I-129 I met the income requirements for the I-134 Affidavit of Support (that I’m now getting ready to submit), but I recently moved and am currently unemployed and looking for work. I have a joint sponsor lined up, my aunt.
My question is– do I need to also fill out the AOS and submit my own financial information (that is not sufficient for the AOS since unemployed) even though I will have an AOS from my aunt?
Thanks for your help 🙂 Your site has been extremely helpful and supportive during this process. It’s always great to know we’re not alone in this crazy process!
Hey Kasey,
That’s a great question. The answer is that it actually depends on the Embassy that you’re going to. Most US Embassies require the US Petitioner to file the I-134 even if you’re using a joint sponsor. That’s because you, the US petitioner, are always considered the primary sponsor — whether or not you use a joint sponsor. So, check your US Embassy instructions. However, to be safe, I would say that you include your own I-134 and supporting documents (as much as possible) if your US Embassy instructions don’t specifically say so. Would you agree?
-Prem
My situation is I just graduated from school May of 2017. I got divorced September 2017(was separated for a long while) and fell in love. But I’m still not working and my last years tax return will be my ex husbands Income! I’ve not worked in 12 years! So what do I do? Is this 100% sponsor? I don’t know anyone that would do that for me. Help!
Hi Sunshine,
If you filed jointly with your ex-, and don’t have a current source of income, you have two options
(1) find a job that meets minimum requirements before he goes for the interview
(2) joint sponsor, use assets, or other sources of income
Do you think you can manage one of these?
-Prem