@immigrationlawyerjohn This is the biggest green card Mess up that people do when applying for their own case!
♬ original sound – JQK Immigration Law
If you’re handling your own marriage-based green card or family immigration case, there’s one hurdle that trips up most applicants: the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864). As an immigration lawyer, I’ve seen firsthand how this form creates unnecessary confusion, leading to delays, denials, and even costly mistakes.
The Complexity of Form I-864
The Affidavit of Support is long and complex, with entire sections that don’t always need to be filled out. Yet, the real challenge comes with calculating family size and income. This form requires you to list your total household income based on your tax return, but many people mistakenly enter their individual income instead. On top of that, you may need to involve a joint sponsor, which adds even more layers of complexity.
Government Errors and Requests for Evidence
Even the US government sometimes gets it wrong. In about 20% of the cases we handle, the government sends a Request for Evidence (RFE) asking for clarifications on the Affidavit of Support. This creates unnecessary delays, especially if you’re relying on assets or self-employment income, which can be confusing to document correctly.
A Costly Mistake
Recently, we heard from someone who was denied a green card because they incorrectly calculated their family size on Form I-864. This minor mistake cost them $3,000 in filing fees and an additional six to nine months of waiting, all while risking potential removal from the country. It’s a frustrating and completely avoidable problem.
Why You Should Consult an Attorney
If you’re navigating the green card process on your own, hiring an immigration attorney can save you time, money, and stress. We help couples avoid costly mistakes like these and make sure that every form is completed correctly the first time.
