The U.S. Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services, requires that sponsors of individuals seeking immigrant visas have certain financial means so that the immigrant does not become a public charge. USCIS generally requires that the sponsor who will be providing an Affidavit of Support, have an income of at least 125% of the poverty guideline for their household size. For example, a U.S. Citizen who wishes to petiton for a green card for their foreign spouse must have an income level of at least $20,300.00/year if it will be just the two of them living in the house. If the sponsor can not meet the guideline they must have a joint sponsor. In some situations assets can be used in place of income.
The 2017 Federal Poverty Guidelines are below:
| Household Size | 100% | 125% |
|
2 |
$16,240 | $20,300 |
|
3 |
$20,420 | $25,525 |
|
4 |
$24,600 | $30,750 |
|
5 |
$28,780 | $35,975 |
|
6 |
$32,960 | $41,200 |
|
7 |
$37,140 | $46,425 |
|
8 |
$41,320 | $51,650 |
|
For each additional person add |
$4,180 | $51,650 |