New I-134 - December 2024 edition - how to complete the new form

A new version of the I-134 has been introduced and it is a big improvement over the last version! However, it is important to complete it correctly and understand how it will be evaluated. SO - take a few minutes to watch this guide to make sure you have a valid I-134

The new form and related instructions are here:
https://www.uscis.gov/i-134

You can ask me questions at BritSimonSays.com

Introduction to the New I-134 Form (00:00 - 02:10)

The new I-134 form was published on December 12, 2024, and will be mandatory from March 13, 2025.

It is simpler and easier to complete than the previous version.

Until March 13, 2025, applicants can still use the old form.

Where to Download the Form & Who Should Use It (02:11 - 05:30)

The form is available on the USCIS website (Google "I-134" to find it).

It is used for Diversity Visa Lottery (DV Lottery) cases and some other immigration categories, not for family-based or employment-based cases.

DV Lottery applicants must use I-134; the I-864 is not applicable to them.

Who Should Fill Out the Form? (05:31 - 08:15)

The form is filled out by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident on behalf of a beneficiary.

A single form covers the main applicant and their family members.

The sponsor should be financially capable of supporting the beneficiary.

Legal Implications of the I-134 Form (08:16 - 10:45)

The I-134 is not legally binding; the U.S. government cannot sue the sponsor for financial support.

Unlike the I-864, this form is only a promise of support, not a legal contract.

Personal Information of the Sponsor (10:46 - 14:30)

Details required: full name, address, birth details, and immigration status.

Only U.S. citizens or permanent residents should be filling this form.

Relationship to the beneficiary (friend, relative, etc.) must be indicated.

Financial Information & Federal Poverty Guidelines (14:31 - 22:00)

Sponsors must disclose income, dependents, and any past I-134 or I-864 sponsorships.

The sponsor’s income should meet or exceed the Federal Poverty Guidelines for the combined household size.

Assets are not as valuable as income for this form; only liquid assets are considered useful.

Additional Financial Contributions (Optional) (22:01 - 24:45)

Sponsors can indicate specific non-financial support (e.g., providing room and board).

This section is optional but may help in demonstrating willingness to assist the beneficiary.

Beneficiary's Information (24:46 - 28:30)

Requires legal name, date of birth, marital status, country of citizenship, and mailing address.

The anticipated period of stay should be marked as permanent ("No End Date").

Statements, Signatures, and Additional Sections (28:31 - 32:15)

The sponsor must confirm their understanding of the form and sign it.

If an interpreter or preparer was used, additional sections (Part 6 & 7) must be completed.

Part 8 allows for extra details if needed (e.g., listing additional dependents).

Conclusion & Final Thoughts (32:16 - End)

The new I-134 form is much easier to complete than before.

It will remain valid until December 2027, with possible reviews or updates afterward.

For more questions, viewers can visit BritSimonSays.com for additional guidance.


00:00 ▶ Introduction – Overview of the new I-134 form (effective March 13, 2025)
02:11 ▶ Where to Download & Who Should Use It – USCIS website & applicable cases
05:31 ▶ Who Fills Out the I-134? – Sponsor requirements & eligibility
08:16 ▶ Legal Implications – Is the I-134 legally binding?
10:46 ▶ Sponsor’s Personal Information – What details are needed?
14:31 ▶ Financial Requirements – Income, dependents & Federal Poverty Guidelines
22:01 ▶ Additional Financial Support – Optional sponsor commitments
24:46 ▶ Beneficiary’s Information – Key details required
28:31 ▶ Signatures & Final Sections – Completing the last steps
32:16 ▶ Final Thoughts – Summary & next steps