Can the sponsor in the F2B category retire before the process is completed?

When starting a family-based immigration process, it is important to understand that the sponsor has long-term financial obligations, mainly through the Affidavit of Support, a document that demonstrates their ability to take responsibility for the immigrant. This responsibility lasts until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, earns 40 work credits (approximately 10 years of work activity), can be credited with 40 credits, or until another change provided by immigration law occurs.

In the case of the F2B visa, when the sponsor decides to retire before the process is finished, nothing prevents them from ending their paid professional activity, provided that the income or other means of financial proof (such as assets or retirement income) continue to meet the minimum requirement established by the U.S. government.

In other words, even retired, the sponsor needs to demonstrate that they have sufficient income or equivalent resources to fulfill their financial obligations. Otherwise, it may be necessary to present a co-sponsor if retirement significantly reduces the proven income.

It is essential to keep all financial documentation updated and be prepared to provide the required information throughout the process. Always following U.S. immigration laws, it is advisable to consult official sources and qualified experts so that changes in the sponsor”s situation do not compromise the petition.

This care also helps avoid risks of scams or unfounded promises of miraculous solutions to immigration problems. Therefore, retiring before completing the process does not automatically invalidate the sponsor, as long as they can prove they continue to meet the required financial criteria.

Maintaining transparency and compliance with the rules, by following up with serious professionals and official institutions, is essential for a successful process.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.