When a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident helps a family member immigrate to the United States, they usually must agree to support the immigrant financially. This legal promise is formalized through Form I-864, Affidavit of Support.
While many sponsors understand that signing this affidavit means taking on financial responsibility, few realize how long those obligations can last, or how serious they are.
So, how long is a sponsor responsible for an immigrant under U.S. immigration law? The answer depends on several factors, including the immigrant’s legal status, circumstances, and life events.
At Warren Law Firm, we help clients understand their sponsorship responsibilities so that they can make informed decisions before and after signing the Affidavit of Support.
What Is an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)? 
The Affidavit of Support is not just a formality; it is a legally enforceable contract between the sponsor and the U.S. government. By signing it, the sponsor agrees to use their financial resources to ensure that the sponsored immigrant does not become dependent on public assistance programs.
This means the sponsor must have income and/or assets equal to at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for the sponsor’s household size, counting the sponsored immigrant If the immigrant receives certain means-tested public benefits, the government or the agency assisting may seek reimbursement from the sponsor. In other words, sponsorship is a serious, long-term financial commitment that continues well beyond the immigrant’s arrival in the United States.
Related: Full Guide to the Affidavit of Support
How Long Is a Sponsor Responsible for an Immigrant In the United States?
The sponsor’s financial responsibility does not end when the immigrant arrives, finds work, or becomes self-sufficient. Under immigration law, the obligation typically continues until one of several specific conditions is met.
A sponsor remains responsible until the immigrant:
- Becomes a U.S. citizen: Once the sponsored immigrant naturalizes, the sponsor’s financial obligation ends automatically.
- Has earned 40 quarters of work (approximately 10 years): This refers to credit earned through employment covered by the Social Security Administration. If the immigrant can show 40 qualifying quarters of work, either through their own employment or combined with their spouse’s work history, the sponsor’s duty ends.
- Leaves the United States permanently: If the immigrant gives up their lawful permanent resident status and departs the country, the sponsor’s responsibility ceases.
- Dies: If either the sponsor or the immigrant passes away, the obligation ends.
What Does Sponsorship Responsibility Mean in Practice?
When a person sponsors an immigrant, they are agreeing to ensure that the immigrant does not rely on certain forms of public assistance. The main programs covered by the Affidavit of Support include:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Medicaid (in some cases)
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP or food stamps)
If the sponsored immigrant receives benefits from one of these programs, the government agency can demand reimbursement from the sponsor. In rare cases, the immigrant can also sue the sponsor if the sponsor fails to provide financial support as agreed.
This underscores why it is essential to understand the scope of your obligations before agreeing to sponsor someone.
Can a Sponsor Withdraw the Affidavit of Support?
Sponsors sometimes ask if they can withdraw their Affidavit of Support after filing. Withdrawal is possible, but only before the immigrant becomes a lawful permanent resident; once the green card is issued, the affidavit becomes binding.
After that point, there is no way to cancel the sponsorship, even if personal circumstances change. For example, if the relationship ends, the sponsor remains financially responsible until one of the legal termination conditions is met.
At Warren Law Firm, we advise clients to fully understand the long-term implications before signing Form I-864. The decision to sponsor an immigrant should be made with both compassion and caution, given the financial and legal consequences.
When to Seek Legal Help As a Sponsor
If you are considering sponsoring a family member, or if you are already a sponsor and unsure of your obligations, it is wise to consult an immigration attorney. The financial responsibilities associated with sponsorship can last for many years, and misunderstanding them can lead to costly mistakes.
An experienced immigration lawyer can review your situation, explain your rights, and help you navigate complex scenarios such as divorce, financial hardship, or an immigrant’s change in status.
Reach Out to Warren Law Firm Today!
So, how long is a sponsor responsible for an immigrant? In most cases, the obligation continues until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, earns 40 quarters of qualifying work, permanently leaves the United States, or one of the parties passes away.
Sponsorship is an act of generosity and commitment, but it also carries significant legal and financial implications. Before signing an Affidavit of Support, it is essential to understand what it entails and how long it lasts.
If you need guidance about your sponsorship responsibilities or want to discuss your immigration options, contact Warren Law Firm today. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you make informed, confident decisions about your immigration journey.
