List of Sponsor Documents Required for US Visit Visa

This article was last updated and fact checked on April 28, 2025 by Mani Karthik.

When my cousin asked me to sponsor her US visit visa, I realized how confusing the document requirements can be. With so many lists online, it’s hard to know exactly what papers you need as a sponsor.

I’ve helped several family members with their US visit visa applications since moving to America.

Let me share the exact sponsor documents that consistently lead to successful visa approvals based on my experience.

Quick Overview: Sponsor Documents for US Visit Visa

As a US visa sponsor, you need to provide financial proof, identity verification, and a formal invitation.

The core documents include a sponsorship letter, proof of status in the US, financial documents like bank statements and tax returns, and proof of your relationship to the applicant.

These documents show US authorities that your visitor has genuine reasons to visit and will return to India afterward.

Primary Sponsor Documents Required for US Tourist Visa

1. Sponsorship Letter (Invitation Letter)

This is the foundation of your sponsorship package:

• Must be addressed to the US Embassy/Consulate
• Include your full name, address, phone number, and email
• State your immigration status (citizen, permanent resident, work visa holder)
• Clearly mention your relationship to the applicant
• Specify the visit purpose, planned duration, and exact dates
• Confirm you will provide accommodation and financial support
• Mention that the visitor intends to return to India after the visit

💡 Pro Tip: Have your sponsorship letter notarized by a US notary public. Though not strictly required, a notarized letter significantly strengthens the application by adding an official verification of your signature and commitment.

2. Proof of Status in the United States

Include one of these documents based on your status:

• US Passport copy (if you’re a US citizen)
• Green Card copy (front and back for permanent residents)
• Valid visa and I-94 record (for those on work/student visas)
• EAD card copy (if applicable)

Make sure all documents are clear, legible copies showing valid dates.

3. Financial Documents

Proving your financial capability is crucial:

• Bank statements from the last 3 months
• Recent pay stubs (last 2 pay periods)
• Employment verification letter stating your position, salary, and employment duration
• W2 forms or income tax returns (Form 1040) from the most recent tax year
• Property ownership documents in the US (if applicable)

These documents should demonstrate you have sufficient funds to support your visitor during their entire stay.

4. Affidavit of Support (Form I-134)

While not always mandatory for tourist visas, this form significantly strengthens the application:

• Download the latest version from the USCIS website (uscis.gov)
• Complete all sections accurately
• Have it notarized if possible
• Include all supporting financial documents mentioned on the form

This form legally binds you to support your visitor and prevents them from becoming a public charge.

5. Proof of Housing/Accommodation

Showing where your visitor will stay:

• Copy of your house deed or apartment lease
• Utility bills in your name at the address listed
• Letter from landlord confirming visitor can stay (if renting)
• Hotel reservations (if they’ll stay at a hotel for any portion)

Additional Supporting Documents

6. Proof of Relationship

Establishing your genuine relationship with the visitor helps:

• Birth certificates (for parent child relationships)
• Marriage certificates (for spouse sponsorship)
• Family photographs together
• Communication history (email/chat printouts)
• Previous travel history together

7. Your Travel Itinerary Plan

A detailed plan for the visit:

• Proposed activities during the stay
• Places you plan to visit together
• Any special events (weddings, graduations, medical appointments)
• Return ticket information

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Sponsor Documents

1. Submitting Outdated Financial Information

Visa officers need to see your current financial situation. Bank statements or pay stubs more than 3 months old are often rejected.

2. Incomplete Affidavit of Support

If you decide to submit Form I-134, ensure every section is completed. Incomplete forms can delay processing or lead to denial.

3. Missing Translation for Native Language Documents

Any document in a language other than English must be accompanied by a certified English translation.

4. Inconsistent Information Across Documents

Ensure all dates, names, and financial details are consistent across your sponsorship letter, Form I-134, and other supporting documents.

FAQs About Sponsor Documents for US Visit Visa

How much bank balance should I show as a sponsor?

There’s no fixed amount, but generally, you should demonstrate at least $10,000 in savings plus approximately $2,000 for each month of the intended visit per person. More is always better to show financial stability.

Can I sponsor someone if I’m on H1B visa myself?

Yes, H1B visa holders can sponsor visitors. You’ll need to provide copies of your valid H1B visa, I-94 record, and proof of employment along with your financial documents.

Do sponsor documents need to be originals or copies?

Copies are acceptable for most documents. The sponsorship letter should be original (and ideally notarized). Form I-134, if submitted, should also be an original signed document.

How recent should my bank statements be?

Bank statements should be no older than 3 months from the visa interview date. The most recent statements show your current financial situation.

Can I sponsor multiple family members with the same documents?

Yes, but you should prepare individual sponsorship letters for each person. Your financial documents should demonstrate sufficient funds to support all visitors simultaneously.

Bonus Tips for Organizing Sponsor Documents

Create a documents checklist and cover page listing everything you’re submitting. This helps the visa officer quickly find what they need.

Arrange documents in a logical order, starting with your sponsorship letter and Form I-134 (if included), followed by identity proof, financial documents, and supporting materials.

Present everything in a professional manner. Use a clean folder with labeled sections instead of loose papers.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep digital copies of all submitted documents. If questions arise during the visa interview, your visitor can refer to specific information quickly if they have digital copies on their phone.

Key Takeaways: Sponsor Documents for US Visit Visa

• A detailed, honest sponsorship letter forms the foundation of your support
• Strong financial documentation is crucial for visa approval
• Form I-134, while not always required, substantially strengthens the application
• Proof of legitimate relationship and return ties to India are essential
• Consistent information across all documents is vital
• Presentation matters; organized, complete documentation shows seriousness

Remember that being thorough with documentation demonstrates your commitment as a sponsor and increases the chances of visa approval for your visitor.

I hope this guide helps make your sponsorship process smooth and successful.

All the best for your loved one’s visa application and their wonderful visit to the United States! ✈️