Since 1997, immigration law has required every petitioner in a family-based petition to complete an affidavit of support on behalf of the intending immigrant. The sponsor must either demonstrate the means to maintain an annual income equal to at least 125 percent of the federal poverty income line or obtain a joint sponsor who can meet that threshold.
Applicants who timely file their Form I-765 renewals now receive an automatic extension, allowing the applicant to remain in the United States and continue working for up to 540 days or until their Employment Authorization Document (EAD) renewal is approved, whichever comes first.