USCIS NOW REQUIRES CREDIT CHECKS FOR FORM I-864: EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY!

USCIS has announced an immediate change to Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, one of the key financial sponsorship forms used in many Green Card cases.

Announced on August 31, 2026, and effective immediately, USCIS will accept ONLY the new 08/24/26 edition of Form I-864. There is NO grace period.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

• OLD I-864 WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED: USCIS says it will not process or accept the 10/17/24 edition if it is postmarked or electronically submitted on or after August 31, 2026.

• NEW FORM REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY: Applications submitted on or after August 31 must use the 08/24/26 edition of Form I-864.

• NO GRACE PERIOD: Unlike some USCIS form updates, there is no transition period allowing applicants to continue using the previous edition.

• NEW CREDIT INFORMATION AUTHORIZATION: The new I-864 contains a privacy release authorizing USCIS to request information from one or more consumer reporting agencies.

• CREDIT FREEZE? PAY ATTENTION: USCIS warns that if a sponsor has placed a credit or security freeze on their consumer or credit report, USCIS may be unable to access information necessary to assess the sufficiency of the I-864. Sponsors should promptly respond to requests to release a freeze to avoid delays.

• SPONSORS FACE SERIOUS FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITIES: USCIS is also reminding sponsors that Form I-864 is a legally binding contract with the U.S. government. If a sponsored immigrant receives certain means-tested public benefits, the agency providing those benefits may seek reimbursement from the sponsor and may sue to recover the benefits, legal fees and associated costs if repayment is not made.

WHO SHOULD PAY ATTENTION?:

Form I-864 is used by most family-based immigrants and some employment-based immigrants to demonstrate adequate financial support.

If you are preparing to submit a Green Card application or Affidavit of Support, immediately check the edition date of your Form I-864 before filing.

THE BOTTOM LINE:

Do not submit the old 10/17/24 Form I-864 on or after August 31, 2026.

Required edition: 08/24/26
Effective: August 31, 2026
Grace period: NONE
Old 10/17/24 edition: NOT ACCEPTED for filings on or after August 31

Applicants and sponsors should also be aware of the new consumer-reporting authorization and promptly address any credit/security freeze if USCIS requests access.

The ViServe Immigration Emergency Alert: Navigate. Prepare. Succeed.
For informational purposes only. This communication does not constitute legal advice.