Form I-864 Instructions

Form I-864 Instructions

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Last updated: November 9, 2025.

By Asel Williams, Esq. · Columbia Law School · Licensed immigration attorney

What documents do I need to submit with Form I-864?

See the full checklist of required documents: Affidavit of Support Checklist – Form I-864

How to fill out Form I-864 step-by-step

See the detailed instructions: How to Fill Out Affidavit of Support – Form I-864

Form I-864 filing fee

Form I-864 filing depends on whether the application is being filed in the U.S. or abroad:

  • If filing Form I-864 with USCIS: $0 (no filing fee)
  • If filing Form I-864 with the National Visa Center (NVC): $120

Form I-864 filing address

Form I-864 filing address depends on whether the application is being filed in the U.S. or abroad:

  • If the application is being filed with USCIS, Form I-864 is filed together with Form I-485. See Form I-485 direct filing addresses
  • If the application is being filed with the National Visa Center (NVC), Form I-864 is uploaded online through the Consular Electronic Application Center website

How long does it take to get Form I-864 approved?

The time it takes to get Form I-864 approved depends on whether the application is being filed in the US or abroad:

  • If the application is being filed with USCIS, Form I-864 processing time matches the Form I-485 processing time (estimated time: anywhere from 8 months to 24 months)
  • If the application is being filed with the National Visa Center (NVC), Form I-864 processing time can take anywhere from 1 week to 2-3 months. You can check the current NVC processing time here

Related Links:

Affidavit of Support Checklist – Form I-864

How to Fill Out Affidavit of Support – Form I-864

Poverty Guidelines for Affidavit of Support