Do I need to submit original documents with Form I-134?

No. Copies are usually sufficient. Immigration officers generally request originals only during interviews or if questions arise. Always keep originals for your records.

Is a tax transcript better than a tax return?

Yes. An IRS tax transcript is often preferred because it comes directly from the IRS and is harder to dispute. It's also a smaller document that's easier to handle. However, a signed tax return with W-2s is also acceptable in many cases.

What if I recently started a new job?

You can still qualify. Include an employer letter confirming your position and salary, along with recent pay stubs. A short explanation letter can also help clarify your situation.

How recent should bank statements be?

Use a recent statement from the previous month but no older than three months. Older statements may not reflect your current financial situation and can weaken your evidence.

How do I document self-employment income for Form I-134?

If you’re self-employed, you should document income with recent tax returns, IRS transcripts, and evidence of ongoing business activity. Plus, you may include bank statements or contracts. To learn more, see our detailed page on how to show self-employment income for Form I-134 →

Home » Form I-134 Guide » I-134 Supporting Documents

I-134 Supporting Documents: What Sponsors Must Include

When you file Form I-134, Declaration of Financial Support, you must include documents that show you can financially support the visitor or beneficiary. These I-134 supporting documents help immigration officers decide if the person you sponsor is likely to become a public charge.

This page explains which documents are commonly required, why they matter, and how to prepare them correctly.

Key Takeaways

I-134 supporting documents prove income, assets, and lawful status.
Income evidence carries the most weight, compared to assets and letters.
Copies are usually acceptable; keep originals in case they're need later.
Strong, consistent evidence helps avoid delays and supports a smoother officer review.

Why I-134 Supporting Documents Matter

Submitting Form I-134 by itself is not enough. Consular officers rely on supporting documents to confirm that the information you provide is accurate and credible. Well-prepared documents can:

Show you meet income expectations
Prove lawful status in the United States
Reduce delays caused by requests for evidence
Help the officer quickly assess financial ability

Missing or weak evidence typically leads to delays or denials. Therefore, accuracy and completeness matter.

Required Proof of U.S. Sponsor Status

You must prove that you are lawfully present in the United States. Include one of the following documents.

Copy of U.S. passport (biographic page)
Copy of birth certificate showing U.S. birth
Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
Permanent Resident Card (green card)

Submit clear copies. Do not send original documents unless specifically requested.

Evidence of Income

Income evidence is the most important part of the I-134 supporting documents. It shows whether you can financially support the sponsored person. Examples of acceptable documents include:

Most recent federal tax return or IRS tax transcript
Recent pay stubs (last 3–6 months)
Employer letter stating job title, salary, and start date

You do not need to submit every item to prove you meet the I-134 income requirements. However, providing multiple documents strengthens your case.

Documentation of Assets That Supplement Income

If your income is low or inconsistent, you may include assets. Assets help show you can support the beneficiary if income alone is not enough. Examples of acceptable evidence to document assets includes:

Statements for cash accounts or brokerage accounts
Receipts and appraisals for personal property

Assets must be easily convertible to cash. Clearly label statements and include recent balances. Make sure you understand the limitations and documentation obligations when using assets on Form I-134 →