Original Signed I-864 for CR1 or Not?

[HotBaozi]

What is the going rule of whether an original signed copy of the I-864 and supporting documents is required for interview or not? The NVC has an electronic copy. I've seen a little commentary on this but unable to find a government documented source that stipulates a requirement for original financial documentation from the petitioner. From the beneficiary yes. Any thoughts?

[dnoblett]

Anything that was scanned and emailed to NVC the originals should be brought to the interview for inspection and possible collection.

 

As for the attached financial documents they can be photocopies, the act of signing the I-864 is swearing under oath that the attached documents are true copies.

 

I-864 form itself.

 

http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad334/dnoblett/Immigration%20Stuff/I-864%20Cert%201_zpsdd6izvah.jpg

 

http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad334/dnoblett/Immigration%20Stuff/I-864%20Cert%202_zps4nj5ommu.jpg

 

More than likely the interviewing officer will want that I-864 for inclusion into the immigration packet.

[HotBaozi]

Anything that was scanned and emailed to NVC the originals should be brought to the interview for inspection and possible collection.As for the attached financial documents they can be photocopies, the act of signing the I-864 is swearing under oath that the attached documents are true copies.I-864 form itself.

http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad334/dnoblett/Immigration%20Stuff/I-864%20Cert%201_zpsdd6izvah.jpg

http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad334/dnoblett/Immigration%20Stuff/I-864%20Cert%202_zps4nj5ommu.jpg

More than likely the interviewing officer will want that I-864 for inclusion into the immigration packet.

Great stuff, thanks Dan.

[Randy W]

Here's what the USCIS says about that - I notice that the I-864 is not specifically mentioned

 

How Do I Know If I Need Original Documents?

Applications and Petitions must be submitted in the original.

 

NOTE: If the applicant or petitioner has already submitted the original document to the USCIS in connection with another matter, he or she may submit a photocopy along with an explanation of when and why the original was previously sent to the USCIS.

For all other documents, the applicant may submit a photocopy of the document required; however, he or she may be required to present the original:

• in person, upon the request of a USCIS or consular official during an interview, or
• by mail, in response to a written request from USCIS.

 

The I-864 instructions seem to only directly address the issue when submitting petitions for multiple immigrants for whom different family-based petitions were filed.

 

But, yes, you will need to have one (original) available at the interview, unless it is already in your file.

 

It seems that that is left to the Consulate and/or interviewing Visa Officer to notify you of this requirement.

Edited December 10, 2015 by Randy W (see edit history)

[Randy W]

I'm talking about ONLY the I-864, of course, NOT the supporting documentation, which I realize is PROBABLY what you are referring to.

 

It DOES say here - Tips for Filing Form I-864, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA -

 

You must sign and date the form in black ink. The signature needs to be original (not a photocopy).