The petitioner must first qualify as a sponsor before there can be a joint sponsor. If the petitioner travels to the United States and sets up a principal residence, where he or she intends to reside, he or she may then qualify as a sponsor. There is no minimum time to establish residence, but a credible demonstration of an actual residence in the United States is required. If the officer is convinced the petitioner has in fact taken up residence in the U.S., the petitioner would then qualify as a sponsor. When in Doubt, Ask 13.
Domicile is a complex issue.
Posts should use this guidance to the extent possible to determine whether a petitioner who resides overseas qualifies as a sponsor. All rights reserved.