The Role of a Joint Sponsor in the Green Card Process for Iranian Applicants

Navigating the complex world of U.S. immigration can be daunting for anyone, but the process can be especially challenging for Iranian applicants seeking a green card. One critical component of the green card application process is securing a joint sponsor if the sponsor of your application does not have sufficient income to support the intending immigrant. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the role of a joint sponsor, discuss the eligibility criteria, and outline the responsibilities and requirements of being a joint sponsor for Iranian green card applicants.

What is a Joint Sponsor?
A joint sponsor is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who agrees to financially support an intending immigrant pursuing a green card. The primary purpose of a joint sponsor is to ensure that the immigrant will not become a public charge or a financial burden on the U.S. government. By agreeing to be a joint sponsor, the individual guarantees that they will provide the necessary financial support if the intending immigrant cannot support themselves.

When is a Joint Sponsor Necessary?
A joint sponsor may be necessary if the petitioner, or the person sponsoring the intending immigrant, does not meet the minimum income requirements set by the U.S. government. The petitioner must prove that they have an annual income of at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their household size. If the petitioner's income falls short of this threshold, they can enlist the help of a joint sponsor to meet the income requirements.

It's important to note that joint sponsors are not limited to family members. A joint sponsor can be a friend, a coworker, or even a community member, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements and are willing to accept the responsibilities associated with being a joint sponsor.

Eligibility Criteria for a Joint Sponsor
To be eligible as a joint sponsor, an individual must meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (green card holder).
• Have a domicile, or primary residence, in the United States.
• Meet the minimum income requirement of 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their household size.

Responsibilities of a Joint Sponsor
By agreeing to be a joint sponsor, an individual is taking on significant responsibilities. The most notable responsibility is the financial obligation to support the intending immigrant. This obligation is formalized by submitting Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, a legally binding contract between the joint sponsor and the U.S. government.

Once the joint sponsor signs Form I-864, they are legally obligated to support the intending immigrant until one of the following events occurs:

• The intending immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen.
• The intending immigrant has worked or can be credited with 40 quarters (10 years) of work in the United States.
• The intending immigrant loses their lawful permanent resident status and departs the United States.
• The intending immigrant or the joint sponsor dies.

It's important to understand that the joint sponsor's financial responsibility does not end if the intending immigrant and the petitioner divorce or separate. The joint sponsor remains obligated to support the intending immigrant until one of the above mentioned events occurs.

If the intending immigrant receives certain means-tested public benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), the joint sponsor may be required to reimburse the government for the cost of those benefits.

Documents Required from a Joint Sponsor 
A joint sponsor must provide several documents for the green card application process. These documents serve as proof of their ability to support the intending immigrant financially and include the following:

• A completed and signed Form I-864, Affidavit of Support.
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status, such as birth certificates, naturalization certificates, or green cards.
• Evidence of domicile in the United States, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement.
• Federal income tax returns for the most recent three years, along with any W-2s or 1099 forms.
• Recent pay stubs or a letter from the employer verifying the joint sponsor's current income.
• Proof of any additional income or assets, such as bank statements, investment accounts, or real estate holdings.
• The joint sponsor should also be prepared to provide any additional documentation requested by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the National Visa Center (NVC) to verify their eligibility and financial capacity.

The Role of a Joint Sponsor in the Green Card Process for Iranian Applicants
For Iranian applicants seeking a green card, having a joint sponsor can be invaluable in the application process. A joint sponsor can help ensure the applicant meets the financial requirements, which can be a significant hurdle for many intending immigrants.

In addition to providing financial support, a joint sponsor can offer emotional support and guidance throughout the application process. Navigating the complex world of U.S. immigration law can be challenging, particularly for those unfamiliar with the system. Having a joint sponsor who is knowledgeable about the process and willing to help can make a world of difference for Iranian applicants.

Iranian applicants and joint sponsors should maintain open communication throughout the green card process. The joint sponsor should be prepared to answer questions, provide documentation, and offer support as needed.

Conclusion
The role of a joint sponsor in the green card process is crucial for Iranian applicants who may need help to meet the financial requirements. By understanding the eligibility criteria, responsibilities, and requirements of being a joint sponsor, the intending immigrant and joint sponsor can work together to navigate the green card application process successfully.

As a joint sponsor, you should be aware of your responsibilities and the potential consequences of failing to meet those obligations. By being proactive and prepared, you can play a vital role in helping an Iranian applicant achieve their dream of obtaining a green card and starting a new life in the United States.

Najmeh Mahmoudjafari, Esq.
Najmeh is the Founder and Lead Immigration Attorney at ImmigraTrust Law, an immigration law practice in Orange County, California, representing individual and corporate clients in all 50 U.S. States and internationally. Najmeh can be reached at [email protected].

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DISCLAIMER: This article is for general information purposes only. It is not intended and does not constitute legal advice. This article does not create an attorney/client relationship and does not provide an attorney/client privilege. For legal advice about your specific case, please contact an attorney.