Common Mistakes Made on Immigrant Visa Applications

Below are some common problems we encounter in conjunction with Immigrant Visa applications. Please take time to read the items below.

Application Form (DS-230) (PDF 175 KB)

• Complete all sections of the application including all questions on pages 3 and 4. Do not leave any question unanswered. This includes all parts of questions 22 and 23.
• Do not use the term "not applicable" or "N/A". Instead write "none" or "never".
• Sign and date the bottom of page 2. Copies or facsimiles of your signature are not acceptable. Parents of children under 14 should also sign the child's name and write "by (father) or (mother), whichever is appropriate.
• Do not sign the bottom of page 4. You should only sign page four when instructed to do so when you visit the Embassy for your interview.
• Review all the information on your application as you are solely responsible for the information provided including any errors, omissions, or falsities. If an applicant received help filling out the application from the petitioner or anyone else, it must be specified on page 4, question 44

Affidavit of Support (I-864)

• You must have a fully completed, original Form I-864 signed by the petitioner, even if the petitioner has no income.
• If the petitioner's income is not sufficient to meet income requirements, the income of a relative residing in the same household can be combined with the petitioner's income by signing an "Agreement of Household Member" (I-864A) (PDF 955 KB).The household member must submit all supporting documents as well.
• A person residing outside of the petitioner's household may also act as a financial co-sponsor by completing a separate I-864. Household size includes everyone living in your house, even if they are independent.
• All I-864 and I-864A forms must be accompanied by an income tax return (form 1040 and W-2) or tax receipt from the Internal Revenue Service from the last year for each person. The petitioner and/or any financial co-sponsor may also wish to submit recent pay slips and a bank statement.
• Each family member applying for an immigrant visa must have a copy of the signed I-864.