If you’re sponsoring a family member for a green card, you need to meet certain financial requirements. Each year, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) updates the Poverty Guidelines, which determine the minimum income sponsors must have to file Form I-864, Affidavit of Support. The 2025 guidelines apply to both immigrant visa applicants (consular processing) and adjustment of status applicants (green card applications within the U.S.). If you’re planning to sponsor someone in 2025, understanding these updated income requirements is crucial.
What Is Form I-864 and Why Does It Matter?
Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, is a required document for most family-based green card applications. It shows that the sponsor has enough financial resources to support the immigrant, preventing them from becoming dependent on public assistance.
A sponsor must meet at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (100% for active-duty military members sponsoring a spouse or child). The income requirement varies based on household size and location (Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits).
2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines for Form I-864
The updated I-864P guidelines for 2025 will be released in January 2025. While the exact figures are not available yet, sponsors should expect a slight increase compared to 2024 due to inflation. Below is an estimate based on previous years:
| Household Size | 48 Contiguous States & D.C. (125%) | Alaska (125%) | Hawaii (125%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ~$18,825 | ~$23,525 | ~$21,675 |
| 2 | ~$25,550 | ~$31,950 | ~$29,350 |
| 3 | ~$32,275 | ~$40,375 | ~$37,025 |
| 4 | ~$39,000 | ~$48,800 | ~$44,700 |
| For each additional person, add: | ~$6,725 | ~$8,425 | ~$7,675 |
🔹 Important: These are estimates. The official 2025 I-864P will be published on the USCIS website in early 2025.
Who Needs to Meet the I-864P Requirements?
The primary sponsor (U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident) must meet these income guidelines. If they do not, they may need a joint sponsor or household member to help meet the requirement.
Applicants Affected:
- Family-sponsored green card applicants (spouses, parents, children, and siblings)
- Employment-based immigrants (in some cases)
- K-1 visa holders applying for a green card (Adjustment of Status)
Who Is Exempt from Form I-864?
- Refugees and Asylees
- VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) self-petitioners
- Applicants with 40 qualifying Social Security work credits
Why the 2025 Poverty Guidelines Matter
If a sponsor does not meet the income requirements, it can cause delays, denials, or requests for additional evidence (RFEs). Here’s why the new guidelines are important:
- Sponsors Must Meet New Income Limits – If your income was just enough in 2024, you may need to adjust for 2025.
- Consular Applicants Must Use the Latest I-864P – If your interview is in 2025, you must use the updated 2025 I-864P.
- Joint Sponsors May Be Needed – If your income isn’t enough, finding a qualified joint sponsor is crucial.
Tips for Meeting the I-864P Income Requirement
- Use Your Tax Returns – Your most recent tax return is the best way to prove income.
- Include All Household Income – If you live with family members, their income can sometimes be included.
- Consider Assets – If your income is slightly below the requirement, assets (bank accounts, property, etc.) may help.
- Find a Joint Sponsor – A joint sponsor must be a U.S. citizen or green card holder and meet the income requirements independently.
Conclusion
The 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines are essential for anyone sponsoring a family member for a U.S. green card. If you’re planning to apply, make sure you check the updated I-864P limits and prepare your financial documents early.
FAQs
- What happens if my income is below the requirement? You may need a joint sponsor or use assets to qualify.
- Can I use unemployment benefits as income? No, USCIS does not count unemployment benefits as qualifying income.
- Do I need to submit a new I-864 if my interview is in 2025? Yes, if your green card interview is in 2025, you must follow the new I-864P guidelines.
Would you like help preparing your green card application? Contact an immigration attorney today!
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