Can an LPR without U.S. income tax file sponsor?

Family-based immigration in the United States involves various requirements to ensure that the sponsor has sufficient financial means to support the intending immigrant. One of these requirements concerns the obligation to provide proof of income, normally evidenced by U.S. income tax returns, even for Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs).

When an LPR wishes to sponsor a relative, it is necessary to complete Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support), which is a commitment to financially support the immigrant to prevent them from becoming dependent on public resources. Generally, the forms and supporting documents require consistent proof of income – typically, the most recent tax return documents are used to demonstrate that the sponsor’s income meets or exceeds a certain threshold calculated based on poverty guidelines. Therefore, if the sponsor does not provide U.S. tax returns, there may be difficulties in proving their financial capacity.

On the other hand, there are specific situations in which a person may not have the obligation to file a tax return – for example, if their income is below the mandatory reporting limit. In these cases, the applicant can still sponsor a relative, but it is crucial to provide alternative evidence of income, such as bank statements, employment letters, or other documents that help demonstrate the ability to meet the financial commitment required. If these alternatives are insufficient, it may be necessary to seek the assistance of a joint sponsor who possesses the required documentation, always observing the rules and standards established by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

It is important to emphasize that strict compliance with immigration laws is essential. To avoid unforeseen issues, it is recommended to consult official sources, such as the USCIS website, and seek support from legitimate specialists, steering clear of miracle promises or marketing campaigns that guarantee results without legal backing. Each situation has particularities, and regularity in documentation, including income proof, is a key point for the petition analysis.

Remember that although general guidelines may help understand the process, each case is unique and requires a detailed analysis of documents and personal circumstances. Following legal guidelines and relying on trustworthy information sources is the best way to conduct the sponsorship process successfully and safely.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.