Manila - I-134F

[frank&machie 0]

I'm completing the I-134f and am not sure about 1 thing. My far enough above the poverty level that I'm not concerned about that part for the I-134, but after reading some of the statements in the guide, it mentions that you should document "at least 2 of the 4 options".

Was anyone asked to provide bank statements or a letter from your bank (especially if you showed consistent income for 2 or more years significantly above the required level)?

Initially, I was not going to provide evidence beyond pay stubs plus 3 years tax return transcripts (with w2's) and employment letter. I can easily include recent bank statements too, but they don't show anything that would add to the sponsorship picture as I don't maintain a balance much above 1k or 2k.

[gary9891 10]

I'm completing the I-134f and am not sure about 1 thing. My far enough above the poverty level that I'm not concerned about that part for the I-134, but after reading some of the statements in the guide, it mentions that you should document "at least 2 of the 4 options".

Was anyone asked to provide bank statements or a letter from your bank (especially if you showed consistent income for 2 or more years significantly above the required level)?

Initially, I was not going to provide evidence beyond pay stubs plus 3 years tax return transcripts (with w2's) and employment letter. I can easily include recent bank statements too, but they don't show anything that would add to the sponsorship picture as I don't maintain a balance much above 1k or 2k.

My understanding is the embassy officer is mostly concerned with INCOME........."Can this person support the visa applicant" etc.

I included employment letter, 2 months pay stubs, taxes for last 3 years and a simple copy of a recent bank statement just to show I have an account. I sent no bank letter because I make significantly above poverty too. The officer saw my taxes and pay stubs and was satisfied and did not even look at the other financial stuff.

Edited August 9, 2010 by gary9891

[omahagreg 2]

I'm completing the I-134f and am not sure about 1 thing. My far enough above the poverty level that I'm not concerned about that part for the I-134, but after reading some of the statements in the guide, it mentions that you should document "at least 2 of the 4 options".

Was anyone asked to provide bank statements or a letter from your bank (especially if you showed consistent income for 2 or more years significantly above the required level)?

Initially, I was not going to provide evidence beyond pay stubs plus 3 years tax return transcripts (with w2's) and employment letter. I can easily include recent bank statements too, but they don't show anything that would add to the sponsorship picture as I don't maintain a balance much above 1k or 2k.

Why take the chance? I simply called my bank branch manager (US Bank), read the requirements verbatim, and within hours he had a bank reference letter ready for me. The fee? Well, US Bank has a policy that special statements of accounts will have any fee waived, if the request is prompted by a request of a governmental agency. And bank statements? I simply printed online the last 3 statements.

So, are these 'unecessary requirements?" Well, since the documents are specifically requested in the 134F, the State Department does consider these documents necessary.

As we all know, some of the information we are required to document is glossed over or ignored. Also, sometimes the data requested gives no additional insight into the case we are submitting. But as a federal government employee, I can tell you all it takes is one person to notice an ommission to go into investigative mode. And once the mindset is in that mode, it comes down to a matter of failure to follow directions, and further scrutiny.

None of the documents or information we are asked to provide is difficult or time consuming to obtain. Just submit your case and docs fully completed. If you want the best chance to obtain the Visa you have spent 6-10 months trying to obtain, just follow the simple instructions. It may not always make sense, but a bureaucrat often does not care. They are trained to follow the guidelines.

Why take the chance over a few inconveniences?

[Matt & Bing 56]

If you meet the income requirements there is no need to provide any informaiton at all on assets, bank accounts, etc. It would be a waste of time as they won't even look at it if your income alone is enough.

Edited August 9, 2010 by Matt & Bing

[scotty's girl 1]

I agree with Matt & Bing

[frank&machie 0]

Thanks all for your replies, pretty much confirms what I was thinking. I'll bring 2 to 3 recent bank statements in addition to the income verification documents just to be on the safe side in case requested.