Legal Question in Immigration Law in Texas

Sponsoring an immigrant

I have verbally agreed to sponsor an immigrant, his wife, and his child. They are currently in this country illegally, and have an attorney representing them. I have provided the attorney with income tax papers, employment papers, etc. and they supposedly have a ''form'' for me to sign and have notarized. I am not getting a very good explanation of what that will make me legally responsible for. Could someone tell me what I am getting myself into? As far as the immigrant, I would trust him with my life and will do everything I can to help him become legal, but I want to do it with eyes wide open.


Asked on 4/17/06, 2:47 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
TC Langford Langford Law Office

Re: Sponsoring an immigrant

Unless you are this person's employer, or immediate relative, you cannot 'sponsor' an immigrant.

This is an area frequently misunderstood by aliens, and you should verify the information with the attorney.

Presumably, the document you are being asked to sign and have notarized is known as an Affidavit of Support. Simply speaking, you are entering into a contract with the federal government for a period of 40 work quarters (generally 10 years). If the government (in a non-emergency situation) has to provide subsistence to the family, you obligate yourself to reimburse the government.

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Answered on 4/17/06, 5:53 pm


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