If your income does not meet the minimum requirement, you may still sponsor your parent by using a joint sponsor. The joint sponsor must meet income requirements independently and be willing to accept legal responsibility. USCIS allows this option to prevent families from being separated due to income limitations. Documentation must be complete and accurate to avoid delays.

USCIS requires sponsors to demonstrate sufficient income to support the intending immigrant. If you fall short, a joint sponsor can help meet the requirement. Alternatively, certain assets may be counted to supplement income. Planning ahead and gathering proper documentation can prevent requests for evidence and speed up processing.

Income requirements are strictly enforced, but they are not always a barrier. Joint sponsors and asset substitution are common solutions. The most important thing is ensuring all financial forms are properly completed and supported with evidence. Many family-based petitions succeed even when the primary sponsor’s income alone is insufficient.