How Much Money Do You Need to Sponsor a K-1 Visa?
To sponsor a K-1 fiancé visa, the U.S. citizen petitioner must meet minimum income requirements set by the Federal Poverty Guidelines. As of 2024, you typically need to earn at least 100% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) based on your household size, including your foreign fiancé(e).
Example (2024 Guidelines for the 48 contiguous states):
- Household of 2 (you + your fiancé(e)): $19,720 per year
- Household of 3: $24,860 per year
- Household of 4: $30,000 per year
Note: If you live in Alaska or Hawaii, the income thresholds are slightly higher.
If you do not meet the income requirement, you may:
- Use assets (such as savings, property, or investments) to supplement your income, or
- Find a joint sponsor, although joint sponsors are more commonly accepted in green card applications than in K-1 cases.
You’ll be required to submit Form I-134 (Affidavit of Support) to prove financial ability during the visa process.
