Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA Lawyer in Cumberland County, NJ

An Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA is a legally binding contract required for many family-based immigration petitions. In Cumberland County, this document obligates a sponsor to financially support an intending immigrant. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced guidance on this demanding process.

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What Is an Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA?

The Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA (Immigration and Nationality Act) is a legally enforceable contract between a sponsor and the U.S. government. By signing Form I-864, the sponsor agrees to use their income and assets to support the intending immigrant at 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, preventing them from becoming a public charge. This obligation typically lasts until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, can be credited with 40 quarters of work, leaves the U.S. permanently, or passes away. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, applies deep knowledge of immigration procedures to this critical financial undertaking.

Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Cumberland Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature

Official Legal Resources

Understanding the legal framework is essential. The Affidavit of Support is governed by federal law under Section 213A of the INA. For matters filed or adjudicated in Cumberland County, the Superior Court of New Jersey, Cumberland Vicinage oversees any related family or enforcement proceedings.

Local Process for Affidavit of Support Matters in Cumberland County

While the Affidavit of Support is a federal immigration form, its financial implications can intersect with New Jersey family law, particularly in matters of spousal support. In Cumberland County, if a sponsor’s financial circumstances change significantly, it may affect other legal responsibilities. The local court handles enforcement of support obligations that could be influenced by the affidavit’s terms.

Determine Sponsorship Requirement: Confirm with your immigration attorney if your specific family-based visa category (e.g., IR-1, CR-1, F2A) requires a Form I-864.
Gather Financial Documentation: Collect recent federal tax returns, W-2s, pay stubs, and proof of assets to demonstrate you meet the income threshold.
Complete Form I-864 Accurately: Fill out every section of the affidavit. Errors or omissions are a common cause of Requests for Evidence (RFE) from USCIS.
Submit with the Immigration Petition: File the signed and notarized affidavit as part of the overall visa application package to the appropriate USCIS lockbox or the National Visa Center.
Maintain Supporting Evidence: Keep copies of all submitted documents and continue to file tax returns as required to demonstrate ongoing compliance.

Understanding Sponsor Obligations and Consequences

In Cumberland County, the Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA creates a legally enforceable duty to provide financial support, with the sponsored immigrant having the right to sue the sponsor for support, and the government able to seek reimbursement for any means-tested public benefits used.

The primary obligation is financial. The sponsor’s income must meet or exceed 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their household size, which includes the sponsor, their dependents, and the intending immigrant. If income is insufficient, assets or a joint sponsor may be used. The sponsor must also provide the immigrant with any support necessary to maintain them at an income that is at least 125% of the poverty line. If the immigrant receives certain means-tested public benefits, the agency providing them can seek reimbursement from the sponsor. also, the immigrant can sue the sponsor in court to enforce the support obligation.

Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Why Choose Our Firm for Your Affidavit of Support

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, brings a focused approach to immigration sponsorship matters. We understand that the Affidavit of Support is a key document that can determine the success of a family unification case. Our team helps sponsors in Cumberland County handle the income requirements, assess the need for a joint sponsor, and comprehend the long-term legal responsibilities they are undertaking. We aim to ensure this critical step is completed correctly to support a smooth immigration process.

Mr. Sris
Managing Attorney
Bar Admissions: Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, New York
A former prosecutor and founder of the firm, Mr. Sris provides strategic oversight on contested immigration matters, including the financial sponsorship obligations tied to the INA.

Our Approach to Your Case

We review your complete financial picture to ensure you qualify as a sponsor. We meticulously prepare Form I-864 to avoid delays. We explain every obligation you are accepting, ensuring you make an informed decision. We are available to address questions throughout the visa process and beyond.

Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA Lawyer Near Cumberland County

Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Cumberland County, including Bridgeton, Vineland, and Millville. We offer 24/7 phone consultations for your convenience.

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-3900
By appointment only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who needs an Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA?

It depends. Most family-based immigrants (immediate relatives and certain family preference categories) and some employment-based immigrants require a Form I-864 from a petitioner or joint sponsor to prove they will not become a public charge in the United States.

What income do I need to qualify as a sponsor in Cumberland County?

Your total household income must be at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your household size. For 2023, this is $24,650 for a two-person household. You must provide evidence like tax returns, W-2s, and recent pay stubs to USCIS.

Can I use assets instead of income?

Yes. If your income does not meet the requirement, you can use cash, stocks, or real estate equity. The total value of assets must be at least five times the difference between your income and the poverty guideline for a sponsored immigrant, or three times the difference if sponsoring a spouse or child.

How long does my sponsorship obligation last?

The obligation typically lasts until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, has worked 40 quarters (about 10 years), permanently leaves the U.S., or passes away. It is a long-term commitment that survives divorce.

What happens if I need an affordable Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA lawyer Cumberland County?

Contact our location to discuss your situation. We provide clear consultations to explain the process and costs. Proper legal guidance can prevent costly errors like a denied visa, which is far more expensive to fix than getting help upfront.

Related Legal Services in Cumberland County

If you are dealing with an Affidavit of Support, you may also need assistance with: Business Law, Contract Law, or broader New Jersey Civil Litigation. For other local needs, consider our Atlantic County Civil Litigation Lawyer.

Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.