Question: I’m applying for a green card for my wife. How many years of tax returns do I need to provide?

Answer: When a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident submits a petition to apply for a foreign family member, the petitioner must demonstrate that he/she has sufficient financial support to support the family member’s living expenses in the U.S. The purpose of this rule is to ensure the foreign family member will not become a public charge in the U.S. The petitioner must submit a complete tax return for the most recent year. The petitioner can provide the most recent three years’ of tax returns, but only the most recent year’s tax return is required. 

How can I demonstrate I have adequate financial means? 

To show that you, as the petitioner, are able to financially support your relative, you must submit your tax return for the most recent year. You must also submit proof of your income for the current year. Your income for the current year and the most recent year must satisfy the minimum income requirements. 

If you are filing an immigration petition for your spouse and you and your spouse have filed taxes jointly in the past, you should submit copies of your past tax returns to prove you have a genuine marital relationship. 

What happens if I lost my most recent income tax return?

If you cannot find your income tax return, you can download a tax return transcript from the IRS’s website. You can also contact your local IRS office.