When you hear the term “visa sponsor”, you might wonder what it means and what responsibilities it involves. In simple terms, being a visa sponsor means you’re agreeing to financially support an immigrant who is applying for permanent residency, often referred to as a Green Card, in the United States. This support ensures that the person you’re sponsoring does not become a public charge, meaning they won’t rely on government assistance to meet their basic needs.
Types of Visa Sponsorship
There are different types of visa sponsorships depending on your relationship with the person you’re sponsoring:
- Family Sponsorship: This is the most common type, where U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can sponsor family members for Green Cards.
- Employment Sponsorship: Employers can sponsor foreign workers for permanent residency. This type of sponsorship usually involves demonstrating that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the job.
- Fiancé(e) Sponsorship: U.S. citizens can sponsor their foreign fiancé(e) for a visa to come to the U.S., allowing them to marry and apply for a Green Card.
What Are My Legal Responsibilities as a Sponsor?
As a sponsor, you take on several important legal responsibilities. The most significant is signing an affidavit of support (Form I-864), a legally binding document where you promise to financially support the immigrant if necessary.
When Do Your Sponsorship Responsibilities End?
Your responsibility as a sponsor doesn’t end immediately after the immigrant receives their Green Card. You are typically responsible until one of the following occurs:
- The immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen.
- The immigrant has worked in the U.S. for at least 10 years.
- The immigrant leaves the U.S. permanently.
- The immigrant or the sponsor passes away.
It’s important to note that even if your relationship with the immigrant changes, such as through divorce, your sponsorship obligations may continue until one of the above conditions is met. In some cases, the sponsor may be responsible for repaying the U.S. government for certain public benefits used by the immigrant.
Being a sponsor is a significant commitment, but it’s also a critical step in helping loved ones achieve their American Dream.
If you’re considering sponsoring someone for a visa and need guidance on the process, contact J. Molina Law Firm today. Our legal team is here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring that you understand your responsibilities and make informed decisions.
