Green Card Joint Sponsor Overview

A Green Card Joint Sponsor is an individual who agrees to share the financial responsibility of a sponsored immigrant with the primary sponsor. The primary sponsor is typically the person who is sponsoring the immigrant's green card application, but they may not meet the financial requirements set by the U.S. government. This is where a joint sponsor can help.

A joint sponsor must be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (LPR) and must meet the same financial requirements as the primary sponsor. In other words, the joint sponsor's income and assets must be sufficient to support the immigrant and the primary sponsor's income and assets.

When do I need a Joint Sponsor For A Green Card?

The U.S. government requires that the sponsor of a green card applicant must demonstrate that they can financially support the immigrant. This requirement is meant to ensure that the immigrant does not become a public charge, which means they do not rely on government assistance for their basic needs.

The financial requirements for sponsoring an immigrant depend on the sponsor's household size and income. If the sponsor's income is not sufficient to meet the requirements, they may need to find a joint sponsor to meet the shortfall.

For example, if you're sponsoring your spouse's green card application and your household income is below the minimum required by the U.S. government, you may need to find a joint sponsor to help you meet the requirements. The joint sponsor would provide additional income and assets to support your spouse's application.

How to find a Green Card Joint Sponsor?

Finding a joint sponsor can be challenging, as you'll need to find someone who is willing to share the financial responsibility for the sponsored immigrant. Here are some tips to help you find a joint sponsor:

  1. Look within your family or friends' circle. If you know someone who is willing to help you, that can be a great option.
  2. Look for community resources. There are organizations that can help connect you with potential joint sponsors, such as non-profit organizations, religious organizations, and community groups.

What are the Requirements of a Green Card Joint Sponsor?

The requirements for a Green Card Joint Sponsor are the same as those for the primary sponsor. They must:

  • Be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (LPR).
  • Complete and file Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, with the U.S. government to demonstrate financial ability to support the sponsored immigrant.
  • Meet the income requirements, which state that the joint sponsor's income must be equal to or greater than 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their household size.
    • Include their own household members and the sponsored immigrant(s) in their household size when calculating income.
  • Use assets to supplement income if unable to meet the income requirements, with the value of assets being equal to or greater than three times the difference between the joint sponsor's household income and the required income for their household size.
  • Be willing to assume the shared responsibility for the immigrant's financial support.
  • Understand that if the joint sponsor cannot fulfill their financial responsibility, the U.S. government may look to the primary sponsor to fulfill the requirements.

It's essential to carefully review and understand these requirements before becoming a joint sponsor for a green card applicant.

FAQs For What Is A Green Card Joint Sponson

Can a joint sponsor be any U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR)?

No, a joint sponsor must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or an LPR, and meet the same financial requirements as the primary sponsor.

Do I need to file a separate affidavit of support for the joint sponsor?

Yes, you do not need to file a separate affidavit of support for the joint sponsor. The joint sponsor's information should be included in the primary sponsor's affidavit of support.

What happens if the joint sponsor cannot fulfill their financial responsibility?

If the joint sponsor cannot fulfill their financial responsibility, the U.S. government may look to the primary sponsor to fulfill the requirements. This is why choosing a joint sponsor who is financially stable and can meet the requirements is important.

Conclusion For Green Card Joint Sponsor

If you're sponsoring a green card application for a family member or loved one, and you don't meet the financial requirements set by the U.S. government, a Green Card Joint Sponsor can help. A joint sponsor is an individual who agrees to share the financial responsibility of the sponsored immigrant with the primary sponsor. They must meet the same financial requirements as the primary sponsor and be willing to assume the shared responsibility for the immigrant's financial support. Finding a joint sponsor can be challenging, but it's important to choose someone who is financially stable and willing to fulfill their obligations.

Remember, sponsoring a family member or loved one's green card application is a significant responsibility. It's essential to ensure that you can financially support the immigrant and that you understand the obligations and requirements involved. Seeking the advice of an immigration attorney can help you navigate the process and ensure that you are meeting all of the necessary requirements.