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What is an Affidavit Letter of Support for the I-751 form?
An Affidavit Letter of Support is a written statement that provides evidence to support your application for removing conditions on your permanent resident status. It serves to demonstrate the authenticity of your marriage and your ongoing relationship with your spouse. This letter can be an important part of your I-751 application, as it helps to establish that your marriage is genuine and not entered into solely for immigration benefits.
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Who can write an Affidavit Letter of Support?
Affidavit Letters of Support can be written by friends, family members, or anyone who knows you and your spouse well. Ideally, these individuals should be able to provide personal anecdotes or experiences that illustrate the legitimacy of your relationship. It’s best to choose people who have witnessed your relationship over time, as their insights can add credibility to your application.
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What should be included in the Affidavit Letter?
The letter should include several key components:
- Your name and address, along with the writer's name and address.
- A statement of the writer's relationship to you and your spouse.
- Details about how long the writer has known you and your spouse.
- Specific examples of your relationship, such as shared experiences, events, or milestones.
- A statement affirming that the writer believes your marriage is genuine.
- The writer's signature and date.
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How long should the Affidavit Letter be?
While there is no strict length requirement, a well-crafted Affidavit Letter typically ranges from one to two pages. It should be concise yet detailed enough to provide a clear picture of your relationship. The focus should be on quality rather than quantity, so make sure the content is meaningful and relevant.
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Is there a specific format for the Affidavit Letter?
There is no official format mandated by USCIS for the Affidavit Letter. However, it is advisable to use a standard business letter format. This includes a heading with the date, the writer's address, and a salutation. Following this, the body of the letter should be organized into clear paragraphs, and it should conclude with a closing statement and the writer's signature.
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Can I include multiple Affidavit Letters of Support?
Yes, including multiple Affidavit Letters can strengthen your application. Each letter should come from different individuals who can provide unique perspectives on your relationship. This variety can help paint a fuller picture of your marriage and demonstrate its authenticity from multiple viewpoints.
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Should the Affidavit Letter be notarized?
While notarization is not required for Affidavit Letters, it can add an extra layer of credibility. If the writer chooses to have the letter notarized, it shows that they are affirming the truthfulness of their statements under oath. However, many applicants successfully submit Affidavit Letters without notarization.
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When should I submit the Affidavit Letter?
The Affidavit Letter should be submitted along with your I-751 application package. It is important to ensure that all supporting documents, including Affidavit Letters, are included when you file your application. This helps USCIS assess your case more effectively and can prevent delays in processing.
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What if my relationship has changed since the marriage?
If your relationship has experienced challenges or changes, it’s important to be honest in your Affidavit Letter. While it’s crucial to present your marriage positively, providing context about your journey can help convey the reality of your situation. The letter should reflect the current state of your relationship, including any efforts you are making to address issues.
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Can I write my own Affidavit Letter?
While you can draft your own Affidavit Letter, it’s generally more effective if someone else writes it. An outside perspective can lend credibility to your application. However, if no one else is available to write it, you can certainly create one yourself. Just ensure it is honest, clear, and provides a genuine account of your relationship.