US Marriage Visa Income Requirements 2025 for Immigrants – Visa sponsorship
Wondering how to successfully meet the financial requirements for a US marriage visa? Learn how to prove your US citizen spouse can fully support you without relying on government assistance and simplify your application process.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the income requirements for a US marriage visa in 2025, including thresholds, guidelines, and alternative options for meeting financial shortfalls.
What Is a Marriage Visa?
A marriage visa allows the foreign spouse of a US citizen to live and work in the United States as a lawful permanent resident. There are two main categories of marriage visas:
- CR1/IR1 Visa: Immigrant visas for spouses to enter the US as permanent residents.
- CR1 (Conditional Residency): Granted if the marriage is less than two years old.
- IR1 (Immediate Relative): Granted for marriages older than two years.
- K3 Visa: A temporary, non-immigrant visa that allows a spouse to join their partner in the US while waiting for an immigrant visa to be processed.
In most cases, the CR1 or IR1 visa is preferred, as the K3 visa is often unnecessary due to faster processing of immigrant petitions by USCIS.
Income Requirements for a US Marriage Visa
To qualify for a marriage visa, the US spouse must file Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, to demonstrate they can financially support their spouse at a level that prevents reliance on public benefits.
Minimum Income Thresholds for 2025
The required income level is 125% of the current federal poverty guidelines, calculated based on the household size and location. If the sponsor is on active military duty and filing for their spouse, the threshold is reduced to 100% of the poverty guidelines.
Poverty Guidelines for Most US States (2025):
| Household Size | 100% of Poverty Guidelines | 125% of Poverty Guidelines |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $18,310 | $22,887 |
| 3 | $23,030 | $28,787 |
| 4 | $27,750 | $34,687 |
| 5 | $32,470 | $40,587 |
| 6 | $37,190 | $46,487 |
| 7 | $41,910 | $52,387 |
| 8 | $46,630 | $58,287 |
| Add $5,900 for each additional person. |
For Alaska and Hawaii, the income thresholds are higher due to a higher cost of living.
What Happens if the Financial Requirements Aren’t Met?
If your US spouse’s income falls short of the minimum threshold, there are several ways to make up the difference:
- Using Assets:
Your spouse can use the value of their assets, such as savings, property, or investments, to supplement their income. The total value of assets must be three times the shortfall. - Including Household Members’ Income:
The sponsor can count income from relatives living in the same household or listed as dependents on their tax return. Each contributing member must complete Form I-864A, Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member. - Counting the Foreign Spouse’s Income:
If the foreign spouse is already living in the US and working legally, their income can be included.
Steps to Demonstrate Financial Support
- Calculate Household Size:
Include the sponsor, the sponsored spouse, dependents, and any relatives living with the sponsor. - Determine Income Eligibility:
Refer to the 125% poverty guidelines for the applicable household size and location. - Prepare Supporting Documentation:
The sponsor must submit financial evidence such as:- Pay stubs
- Tax returns
- Bank statements
- Proof of assets (if applicable)
- File the Correct Forms:
- Form I-130: Establishes the relationship between the US citizen and the foreign spouse.
- Form I-864: Affidavit of Support to demonstrate financial eligibility.
Meeting the income requirements for a US marriage visa is crucial to ensure a successful application. While the 125% threshold may seem daunting, options like leveraging assets or household members’ income can help fill gaps.
Navigating the process may require expert guidance to avoid delays or denials. Consider consulting with an immigration attorney or professional to ensure your application is complete and compliant with the latest requirements.