In 2025, do joint sponsors for green card applications need to be family members? Learn eligibility rules, income thresholds, legal obligations, and expert help from Beyond Border. USCIS processes made easy with Forms I-864 and I-864A explained.
%20(1).jpg)
You’re applying for a green card and suddenly realize the petitioner’s income falls short. What now? Do you need to beg a relative for help? Actually — no. Joint sponsors don’t need to be related to you at all. That’s one of the most flexible and lesser-known facts about the marriage green card process.
So if your spouse’s income isn’t enough to meet USCIS minimums, a friend, employer, roommate, mentor, or even a former teacher can step in — as long as they qualify. Let’s unpack how joint sponsorship works, who can do it, and what it means in real terms.
Here’s the typical scenario: you and your spouse apply for a marriage green card. But when it comes to finances, their income doesn’t meet the minimum requirement set by USCIS, which is 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. For a household of two in 2025, that’s around $25,550. If the petitioner’s income is too low or inconsistent, your application could be delayed or denied.
That’s where a joint sponsor comes in. They file their own Form I-864, agreeing to back the immigrant financially if needed. They don’t need to live with you. They don’t even need to know your spouse. What they do need is eligibility.
USCIS rules are clear: to be a joint sponsor, a person must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder), be 18 years or older, live in the U.S. (not abroad), meet the 125% income threshold for their own household size, and be willing to accept financial responsibility for the immigrant until the support period ends. Notice anything missing? There’s no requirement to be a family member. As long as someone meets the income and legal qualifications, they’re good to go — even if they’re a friend or coworker.
Income requirements depend on household size. For example, in 2025, a sponsor with a household size of 1 needs about $19,720. With two people (such as the sponsor and their spouse), they’ll need $25,550. A household of four would need around $39,500. If the sponsor doesn’t meet that income with their tax returns, they can use assets like savings, real estate, or investments. However, the total value must be at least five times the income shortfall. For instance, if a sponsor is $5,000 short, they’d need to show $25,000 in qualifying assets.
To officially become a joint sponsor, the person must submit Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support), and if sharing income with someone else in their household, Form I-864A. They also need to submit their most recent federal tax return, typically including Form 1040 and W-2s, and evidence of current income, such as recent pay stubs or a letter from their employer. All documents must prove the sponsor meets the income requirement on their own — it can’t be split between two joint sponsors unless each one fully supports different beneficiaries. Need help compiling this? Beyond Border can help walk your sponsor through every form — and make sure it’s done right the first time.
When someone signs Form I-864, they enter a binding legal contract with the U.S. government. They’re not just vouching for you — they’re agreeing to repay the government if the immigrant receives certain public benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or Medicaid (in some states). This commitment stays in effect until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, earns 40 quarters of work credit (about 10 years), or leaves the U.S. permanently.
Yes, USCIS allows multiple joint sponsors in the same case, but not for the same beneficiary. Each sponsor must fully meet the income requirement independently for the person (or people) they’re backing. For example, if a petitioner is sponsoring a spouse and two kids and can’t meet the combined income threshold, one joint sponsor could support the spouse, and another could support the children. But two people can’t combine incomes to co-sponsor the same person.
There’s only one situation where the sponsor must be a relative — when the original petitioner dies before the immigrant gets a green card. This triggers the use of a substitute sponsor, and they must be a close family member such as a parent, child, sibling, or spouse. Other than this narrow case, family is not required.
This is a big ask — and it deserves a thoughtful approach. Start by explaining what it means, being upfront about the responsibility and legal implications. Reassure them that most immigrants never require sponsors to step in financially. Share the paperwork and help them understand the process. Give them time to think, and offer to connect them to Beyond Border for professional guidance. This shows respect, care, and preparation.
If a joint sponsor backs out before approval, you’ll need to submit a new Form I-864 from a different sponsor. Without it, USCIS can reject or delay your application. In some cases, you may be able to use assets instead — but it depends on the shortfall. The safest bet is to have a backup sponsor or contact Beyond Border for help building a stronger case.
Neha, a graphic designer from India, married her college sweetheart in New York. But his entry-level job didn’t meet the income threshold. Her professor, who had mentored her since undergrad, stepped in as joint sponsor — and Neha now works at a top design firm in Manhattan. Leo, a chef from Brazil, moved to the U.S. with his partner. When their joint savings couldn’t cover the income shortfall, Leo’s friend and restaurant owner offered to sponsor. With the forms filed correctly, the green card was approved within 10 months. These stories are common — and powerful proof that support doesn’t have to come from blood relatives.
Can a friend be my joint sponsor?
Yes, as long as they meet all USCIS eligibility and income requirements.
Do joint sponsors need to attend the USCIS interview?
No, they only need to submit the required financial documents.
Can a joint sponsor live in a different state from the applicant?
Yes, as long as they reside within the United States or its territories.
Can my employer be my joint sponsor?
Yes, if they meet the income and residency requirements.
Can a joint sponsor live outside the U.S.?
No, joint sponsors must be physically living in the U.S.
Can two people co-sponsor the same immigrant?
No, each joint sponsor must independently qualify for the person they’re sponsoring.
Is a joint sponsor financially liable if the immigrant uses benefits?
Yes, they may be held responsible for repaying certain means-tested public benefits.
Does the joint sponsor need to be related to me?
No, there is no requirement for a family relationship.
Can a green card holder be a joint sponsor?
Yes, lawful permanent residents are eligible to sponsor.
Can a joint sponsor use assets instead of income?
Yes, assets can be used if they meet USCIS value thresholds.
If you're facing income hurdles in your green card process, know this: your sponsor doesn’t have to be family. They just need to meet the requirements and be willing to take the legal responsibility. Whether you’re an immigrant looking for answers or a potential sponsor considering the commitment, you don’t have to figure it all out alone.
Get expert help from Beyond Border to avoid delays, ensure accurate forms, and feel confident about every decision. Immigration is complicated, but with the right support, it’s also achievable.
And for the most accurate updates on forms, rules, and timelines, always check USCIS directly.
.jpg)
.jpg)
