Chicago is considered a welcoming city for immigrants and has enacted several policies to ensure that its immigrant population has access to the services it needs regardless of anyone’s legal status. Anyone who immigrates to the US through a relative petition is required to have a financial sponsor, as are those who come to the US on employment visas.
Here is a look at the process of sponsoring an immigrant in Chicago, who is eligible to be a financial sponsor, and how our immigration attorneys at Godoy Law Office can assist.
In order to be a financial sponsor for a family member or employee who is planning to immigrate to Chicago, an individual must be a US citizen or lawful permanent resident who is at least 18 years old. A potential sponsor must be able to prove that they have an income level at or above 125 percent of the federal poverty level. Active duty military members who wish to be sponsors must make at least 100 percent of the federal poverty level to qualify to sponsor a spouse or child. Besides wages, some additional sources of income that can be used to satisfy the income requirement include:
If an individual is unable to meet the income requirements of sponsorship, a cosponsor can be used in many circumstances. However, it is important to understand that the cosponsor must be able to satisfy all of the sponsorship requirements independently, including meeting the income requirements, and must agree to also be financially responsible for the immigrant.
The process of sponsoring an immigrant begins when the prospective immigrant sponsor petitions the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) establishing a relationship between themselves and the immigrant. The sponsor will be asked to complete an Affidavit of Support and provide supporting documents that show they are financially able to support the immigrant. They will be required to pay fees during the process and also to be interviewed by officials.
From start to finish, an experienced immigration lawyer can help individuals in Chicago sponsor family members and employees by:
Our attorneys can also assist with other issues that may occur during the immigration process, including denied petitions, adjustment of legal status, and sponsored immigrants seeking public support if their sponsor fails to provide adequate financial support until they become citizens, work for 10 years in the US, or leave the US.
Having a financial sponsor is a requirement for many people wishing to immigrate to the US. However, sponsoring an immigrant in Chicago comes with significant responsibilities, as this commitment often lasts for many years. It is important to understand this legal process and to have the guidance of a dedicated immigration attorney who can help you navigate the federal requirements of financial sponsorship.
By working with Godoy Law Office, you will receive a written contract that outlines exactly what services we are providing for you and will work alongside you each step of the way to help your relative or employee’s wish to live and work in Chicago come true. Contact us.
