Hey there! If you're in the process of applying to remove the conditions on your green card, you've likely come across the term "Affidavit of Support" or "Affidavit of Friends." This article is all about understanding the I 751 Sample Affidavit Of Friends Letter Sample, which can be a super helpful tool when USCIS needs a little more proof that your marriage is real and not just for immigration purposes. We'll break down what it is, why it's important, and give you some examples to get you started.
What is an I 751 Affidavit of Friends Letter?
So, what exactly is this "Affidavit of Friends" thing? Basically, it's a letter written by someone who knows both you and your spouse really well. This person is like an eyewitness to your genuine relationship. They'll talk about how they've seen you two together, what makes your marriage look real, and how you interact as a couple. Think of it as a character witness for your marriage! The importance of these letters lies in providing USCIS with third-party validation of your bona fide marriage.
Why does USCIS even ask for these letters? Well, the I-751 petition is to prove that your marriage is genuine and not entered into just to get a green card. Sometimes, the documents you provide might not be enough on their own. That's where friends and family come in! They can offer a perspective that official documents can't. Here's what they often include:
- How they met the couple.
- How long they've known them.
- Specific examples of the couple's life together.
- Their belief in the genuineness of the marriage.
It's not just about saying "they seem happy." The best affidavits are detailed and specific. Imagine a friend describing a holiday gathering where you and your spouse clearly acted like a married couple, or how you supported each other during a tough time. These kinds of stories make a big difference. Here's a quick rundown of what a good affidavit should look like:
| What to Include | Why it Matters |
|---|---|
| Personal Information of the writer | USCIS needs to know who is writing the letter. |
| How and how long they've known the couple | Establishes credibility and a basis for their observations. |
| Specific examples of the couple's relationship | Provides concrete evidence of a shared life. |
| Statement of belief in the marriage's authenticity | Directly addresses the core requirement of the I-751. |
| Signature and date | Makes the letter official. |
Letter Example: Friend Who Knew You Before Marriage
Dear USCIS Officers,
My name is [Friend's Full Name], and I am writing this letter in support of [Petitioner's Full Name] and [Spouse's Full Name]'s petition to remove conditions on their green card. I have known [Petitioner's Full Name] for [Number] years and [Spouse's Full Name] for [Number] years. I first met [Spouse's Full Name] when [Petitioner's Full Name] introduced them to me at [Location or Event]. From the moment they met, it was clear there was a special connection between them.
I have witnessed the growth of their relationship firsthand. I remember [Specific anecdote about their dating days, e.g., a memorable date, how they supported each other, a funny story]. They were always so excited to share their lives with each other. When they decided to get married, I was absolutely thrilled for them because I truly saw their love and commitment.
Since their marriage on [Marriage Date], I have seen them build a life together. I've visited their home many times and have always observed them acting as a loving and supportive married couple. For example, [Specific example of them acting as a married couple, e.g., planning a trip together, discussing finances, sharing chores]. They share common interests, support each other's goals, and genuinely enjoy spending time together. I have no doubt that their marriage is bona fide and entered into with genuine affection and commitment.
Sincerely,
[Friend's Full Name]
[Friend's Address]
[Friend's Phone Number]
[Friend's Email Address]
Letter Example: Family Member Who Sees Them Regularly
To the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services,
This letter is to attest to the genuine and loving marriage of [Petitioner's Full Name] and [Spouse's Full Name]. I am [Petitioner's Full Name]'s [Relationship, e.g., sister, brother, cousin], and I have known [Spouse's Full Name] since they began dating [Petitioner's Full Name]. We are a close-knit family, and [Spouse's Full Name] has become an integral part of it.
I have had the pleasure of seeing [Petitioner's Full Name] and [Spouse's Full Name] together on numerous occasions, including family gatherings, holidays, and casual dinners. I have consistently observed a deep bond, mutual respect, and affectionate companionship between them. For instance, during our last family reunion on [Date], I saw how [Petitioner's Full Name] and [Spouse's Full Name] worked together to organize activities and made sure everyone felt included. They function as a true partnership.
What impresses me most about their marriage is their shared commitment to building a future together. I have heard them discuss their plans for [mention a shared goal, e.g., buying a house, starting a family, career aspirations] and seen them support each other through [mention a challenge they overcame together]. Their relationship is not just about companionship; it's about a shared vision and unwavering support. I wholeheartedly believe their marriage is real and based on love.
Respectfully,
[Family Member's Full Name]
[Family Member's Relationship to Petitioner]
[Family Member's Address]
[Family Member's Phone Number]
[Family Member's Email Address]
Letter Example: Colleague Who Sees Them Socially
Dear USCIS Officers,
I am writing to support the I-751 petition filed by [Petitioner's Full Name] and [Spouse's Full Name]. My name is [Colleague's Full Name], and I have known [Petitioner's Full Name] for [Number] years through work at [Company Name]. I also met [Spouse's Full Name] shortly after [Petitioner's Full Name] and [Spouse's Full Name] started dating, and have gotten to know them well over the past [Number] years.
I've had the opportunity to socialize with [Petitioner's Full Name] and [Spouse's Full Name] outside of work, attending events together and sometimes even going out for dinner or drinks as a group. During these times, I have always seen them interact as a loving and committed couple. They are affectionate, attentive to each other, and clearly enjoy each other's company.
A specific instance that comes to mind is when we attended [Event Name] on [Date]. [Petitioner's Full Name] and [Spouse's Full Name] were inseparable, constantly checking in with each other, sharing inside jokes, and demonstrating a strong sense of unity. They also frequently talk about their shared activities and plans, such as [mention a shared hobby or activity, e.g., hiking trips, cooking together, visiting museums]. Their commitment to their marriage is evident in their daily interactions and their future aspirations. I am confident that their marriage is genuine.
Sincerely,
[Colleague's Full Name]
[Colleague's Job Title]
[Colleague's Company Name]
[Colleague's Phone Number]
[Colleague's Email Address]
Letter Example: Neighbor Who Sees Them as a Couple
To Whom It May Concern,
I am [Neighbor's Full Name], and I reside at [Neighbor's Address], which is next door to [Petitioner's Full Name] and [Spouse's Full Name] at [Couple's Address]. I have been their neighbor for [Number] years. During this time, I have had numerous opportunities to observe their relationship and interactions as a married couple.
I have seen them on a daily basis, coming and going from their home, and participating in neighborhood activities. They always appear to be a loving and supportive unit. For example, I've often seen them [mention neighborly interaction, e.g., helping each other with yard work, sharing tools, walking their dog together]. They are considerate of each other and frequently express affection when interacting in front of neighbors.
I have also heard them discuss their lives and future plans. They often speak of their shared experiences and their commitment to one another. It is clear to me that they share a strong bond and are building a life together. I have always considered them a genuine married couple, and I support their petition wholeheartedly.
Respectfully,
[Neighbor's Full Name]
[Neighbor's Address]
[Neighbor's Phone Number]
Letter Example: Friend From a Different Life Stage
Dear United States Citizenship and Immigration Services,
I am writing this letter to provide an affidavit of support for [Petitioner's Full Name] and [Spouse's Full Name]'s I-751 petition. I have known [Petitioner's Full Name] since [Year] when we were [describe situation, e.g., in college, working at a previous job]. I met [Spouse's Full Name] around [Year] and have since gotten to know them as well.
Our interactions have been primarily [describe interaction, e.g., through occasional visits when they come to my city, video calls, when I visit them]. Even with the distance, I have always felt connected to their relationship and have witnessed its strength. I recall a conversation I had with [Petitioner's Full Name] on [Date] where they spoke so lovingly about [Spouse's Full Name]'s support during [mention a specific event or challenge]. It was clear how much they rely on and cherish each other.
We have also met up on a few occasions, such as [mention a specific meeting or trip]. During these times, I saw firsthand how [Petitioner's Full Name] and [Spouse's Full Name] behave as a married couple – they communicate openly, share responsibilities, and show genuine care and concern for each other's well-being. Their shared experiences and their continued commitment to their relationship convince me that their marriage is authentic.
Sincerely,
[Friend's Full Name]
[Friend's City and State]
[Friend's Phone Number]
[Friend's Email Address]
Letter Example: Religious Leader or Community Member
To Whom It May Concern at USCIS,
I am [Religious Leader's Full Name], serving as [Title, e.g., Pastor, Imam, Rabbi] at [Place of Worship/Organization] located in [City, State]. I am writing in support of [Petitioner's Full Name] and [Spouse's Full Name], who are members of our community. I have known them both since [Year] and have had the privilege of witnessing their marriage and their commitment to each other.
I officiated their wedding ceremony on [Marriage Date] at [Wedding Venue]. During our pre-marital counseling sessions, I observed their deep love, respect, and shared values, which are the foundations of a strong marriage. Since their wedding, they have continued to actively participate in our community [mention community involvement, e.g., volunteering, attending services, participating in events].
I have seen them support each other through various life events, both joyous and challenging. They consistently demonstrate a partnership built on mutual trust, love, and a shared commitment to their faith and their future. It is clear to me that their marriage is a sacred union, entered into with sincerity and genuine affection. I am happy to provide this affidavit to attest to the bona fides of their marriage.
Blessings,
[Religious Leader's Full Name]
[Title]
[Place of Worship/Organization]
[Address]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
Letter Example: Friend Who Can Speak to Shared Life Experiences
Dear USCIS Officers,
This letter is in support of the I-751 petition of [Petitioner's Full Name] and [Spouse's Full Name]. My name is [Friend's Full Name], and I have been friends with [Petitioner's Full Name] for [Number] years. I met [Spouse's Full Name] shortly after they began dating, and I have had the pleasure of witnessing their journey together for the past [Number] years.
What makes me confident in the authenticity of their marriage is the depth of their shared life experiences. I have seen them navigate significant life events together. For example, I remember when [mention a shared life event, e.g., one of them lost a job, they moved to a new city, a family member became ill]. During these times, they leaned on each other for support, comfort, and strength, demonstrating a true partnership. They celebrated milestones together, such as [mention a shared celebration, e.g., purchasing a home, a significant anniversary, a promotion].
They also share many common interests and activities, such as [list shared hobbies, e.g., traveling, cooking, attending concerts, sports]. I have often heard them discuss their plans for future adventures and how they look forward to experiencing them together. Their relationship is not just one of convenience, but one of deep connection, shared dreams, and a genuine commitment to building a life as husband and wife. I firmly believe their marriage is legitimate.
Sincerely,
[Friend's Full Name]
[Friend's Address]
[Friend's Phone Number]
[Friend's Email Address]
So, there you have it! The I 751 Sample Affidavit Of Friends Letter Sample is all about having people who know and love you vouch for your real marriage. Remember, the more specific and personal the stories, the stronger the letter will be. These letters are a vital part of showing USCIS that your marriage is the real deal, and by understanding what makes a good affidavit, you can gather the best possible support for your I-751 petition.