Sponsoring an immigrant to live and work in the United States is a significant responsibility, one that involves understanding both the legal process and financial requirements. If you’re considering sponsoring a family member or another individual, it’s crucial to understand the costs associated with the process. These costs can range from filing fees to the financial commitment you must demonstrate to support the immigrant. Experienced immigration lawyers can break down the costs involved in sponsoring an immigrant, helping you plan effectively for this important responsibility.

What Does Sponsorship Mean?

Sponsorship typically occurs in the context of family-based immigration. The U.S. government requires a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to sponsor certain immigrants to bring them into the country. The sponsor agrees to financially support the immigrant, ensuring they won’t become a public charge (dependent on government assistance).

The most common forms of sponsorship are for immediate family members, such as spouses, children, and parents. For these family-based petitions, the sponsor needs to file a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and prove they meet certain financial criteria. These criteria ensure that the immigrant has the financial support necessary to live in the U.S. without relying on government assistance.

Financial Responsibilities of Sponsorship

The financial commitment to sponsor an immigrant is substantial. It’s essential to understand the following components.

1. Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)

The most significant financial document in the sponsorship process is the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864). This form is required for family-based immigration petitions. The sponsor must sign this affidavit, committing to support the immigrant financially and ensure that the immigrant will not rely on public assistance.

The sponsor must meet specific income requirements, which are based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines. For example, to sponsor a spouse, the sponsor’s household income must be at least 125% of the poverty level for their household size. For active-duty military sponsors, the requirement is 100% of the poverty level.

For a family of two (sponsor and immigrant), the income requirement might be around $22,000, but this amount increases based on household size and location.

If the sponsor’s income is insufficient, they may be able to include assets (such as savings or property) to meet the threshold or have a joint sponsor co-sign the affidavit to meet the financial requirements.

2. Filing Fees for Immigration Forms

Various forms are required during the sponsorship process, and each comes with associated fees. As of 2025, the typical forms required include:

• Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): This form costs approximately $535 to file. It’s the primary form used to establish the relationship between the sponsor and the immigrant.
• Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support): There is no additional filing fee for this form, as it is usually submitted with the Form I-130 petition.
• Form DS-260 (Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration): If the immigrant is applying for a visa through a U.S. consulate abroad, this form costs around $325.
• Form I-485 (Application to Adjust Status): If the immigrant is already in the U.S. and applying for permanent residency (a green card), this form typically costs $1,140 (plus an additional $85 for biometric services).

Additionally, the sponsor should budget for legal fees if they hire an immigration attorney to assist with the process. Experienced family immigration lawyers can help navigate complex immigration law and ensure all forms are filed correctly, avoiding delays or complications.

3. Medical Exam and Vaccination Costs

Before an immigrant can obtain permanent residency, they must undergo a medical exam by an approved physician. This exam typically costs between $100 and $500, depending on the provider and location. Vaccinations may also be required as part of the medical exam process, and these costs can add up, ranging from $100 to $300.

4. Travel Expenses for Visa Interviews

If the immigrant is applying from abroad, they will need to attend an interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy. The cost of travel to the interview and any related expenses should be considered in the overall cost of sponsorship.

5. Miscellaneous Costs

There may be other miscellaneous costs that arise during the sponsorship process. These can include:

• Translation services for documents
• Postal or courier fees
• Legal fees (if applicable)

Additional Costs

While the main costs of sponsoring an immigrant are covered by the fees mentioned above, other costs may arise depending on the specific circumstances of the case. 

• K-1 Fiancé Visa: If you are sponsoring a fiancé (rather than a spouse), additional costs may apply for the K-1 visa process, including medical exams and the costs associated with applying for a change of status after marriage.
• Legal Assistance: Hiring experienced family immigration lawyers can add to the costs of sponsorship, but may ultimately save time and prevent mistakes that could lead to additional delays or denials.

Legal Help: How Experienced Family Immigration Lawyers Can Assist

Navigating the process of sponsoring an immigrant is often complicated and filled with legal nuances. An experienced immigration lawyer can help in the following ways:

• Guidance Through Paperwork: Immigration petitions require the completion of numerous forms, each with strict instructions. Mistakes in filling out these forms can lead to delays or rejections. A family immigration lawyer can ensure everything is completed accurately.
• Navigating Complex Cases: If there are any complications in the sponsor’s or immigrant’s history (such as prior criminal charges, issues with immigration status, etc.), an experienced attorney can help resolve these challenges and avoid potential pitfalls.
• Legal Representation: In some cases, family members may need to appear for interviews or hearings. An immigration lawyer can represent the sponsor and immigrant at these stages, helping to ensure the best outcome.

Understanding the financial aspects of sponsorship helps ensure that you are well-prepared for this important responsibility, both legally and financially.