By Richard T. Herman, Immigration Attorney – Herman Legal Group
Quick Answer Box: What Is Form I-865?
Form I-865, Sponsor’s Notice of Change of Address (sponsor’s notice of change), is a mandatory USCIS form that must be filed by anyone who previously submitted Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) and later changes their address.
This form is used to update your mailing address with USCIS so they can contact you regarding sponsorship responsibilities and ensure you remain compliant. Under Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) § 213A(d)(2)(A), a sponsor must notify USCIS within 30 days of moving.
Failure to do so can lead to civil fines up to $5,000 and even criminal penalties.
Why Form I-865 Matters for I-864 Sponsors
When you signed Form I-864, you legally agreed to financially support an immigrant until certain conditions end the obligation. By sponsoring an immigrant, you take on important legal responsibilities, including providing support and keeping your information current. That duty doesn’t disappear when you move — and the U.S. government wants to know where to find you if reimbursement or enforcement becomes necessary. Missing important correspondence from USCIS because of an address change could lead to delays or denial of immigration benefits for the sponsored immigrant, so notifying USCIS of any address changes is crucial to maintain compliance and avoid issues.
Fast Fact:
The I-865 ensures USCIS can contact you if your sponsored immigrant receives public benefits or if the government needs to enforce your support obligation.
This form isn’t optional — it’s a continuing legal responsibility tied to the financial commitment you made when signing the I-864.
Who Must File Form I-865
You must file Form I-865 if you:
- Filed Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, for a sponsored immigrant who has not yet become a U.S. citizen, worked 40 qualifying quarters, left the U.S. permanently, or died; and
- You moved to a new physical address (even within the same city), or if there is an alien’s change of address (the sponsored immigrant moves), as you have a legal responsibility to change your address with USCIS.
If you co-sponsored (a joint sponsor) or used a substitute sponsor, each sponsor has their own duty to file I-865 separately. If an immigrant has multiple sponsors, each sponsor must file their own Form I-865 for address changes.
Important Note:
This requirement applies even if the immigrant never lived with you, if they are no longer in your household, or if the filing is due to the alien’s change of address.
Who Does Not Need to File Form I-865
You do not need to file I-865 if:
- You never filed Form I-864.
- Your sponsorship obligation has already ended because the immigrant:
- Became a U.S. citizen,
- Earned 40 qualifying quarters of work under Social Security,
- Died, or
- Permanently left the United States.
However, when in doubt, file it anyway — there is no penalty for filing, but serious ones for failing to do so.
Filing or not filing Form I-865 does not impact the immigrant’s status; it is solely about the sponsor’s compliance requirements.
When to File Form I-865
You must file within 30 days of moving to a new address.
If you move multiple times while the obligation continues, you must refile each time.
Don’t forget: Failing to file within 30 days can lead to penalties, so always remember to submit your change of address on time.
Key Insight:
The 30-day clock starts from your move date — not from when mail forwarding starts or your driver’s license changes.
Missing the deadline, even unintentionally, can result in civil fines or criminal enforcement if the government can’t locate you when required. Failing to notify USCIS of a change of address is also considered a misdemeanor.
How to File Form I-865 (2025 Edition)
Before you begin, carefully read the instructions for Form I-865 to ensure you understand all requirements before filling out the address form.
- Download the latest version of the address form (Form I-865) from the official USCIS page: uscis.gov/i-865
- Fill out all sections accurately, including:
- Your full name,
- Alien Registration Number (if applicable),
- The immigrant’s name and A-Number,
- Old and new addresses. Make sure the information provided is complete and correct, as inaccurate or incomplete filling can delay processing.
- Sign and date the form. You must submit the signed form to USCIS. Unsigned forms will not be accepted. Sponsors must fill out Form I-865 in black ink and sign the form before submitting it. USCIS will only accept properly signed and completed forms.
- Mail the completed form to the address listed on the USCIS website (varies by state and filing category). Only submit original documents if USCIS specifically requests them.
- As of October 2025, most sponsors must send it to: USCIS Attn: I-8651344 Pleasant Valley DriveVirginia Beach, VA 23464
- Keep proof of delivery — certified mail or USCIS online confirmation. There is no filing fee for Form I-865.
Expert Tip:
Always keep a copy of the I-865 and your mailing receipt for your records. You may need this if USCIS later alleges non-compliance. Note: You cannot update your address online for Form I-865 as of October 2025.
I-865 vs. AR-11: Know the Difference
| Form | Who Files | Purpose | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-865 | I-864 sponsor | Sponsor’s notice: Notify USCIS of sponsor’s address change | 30 days |
| AR-11 | Non-citizens, visa holders, or green card holders | Address card: Notify USCIS of personal address change | 10 days |
At a Glance:
The AR-11, sometimes called an address card, is for immigrants or non-citizens to update their personal address. The I-865 is the sponsor’s notice—U.S. sponsors who pledged financial support must use this form to report their own address changes to USCIS.
Legal Authority for Form I-865
The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA § 213A(d)(2)(A)) explicitly requires sponsors to inform USCIS of any change in address. This requirement is established under U.S. immigration law.
This regulation is codified in 8 CFR § 213a.3, which states:
“A sponsor must notify USCIS of any change of address within 30 days by filing Form I-865, and failure to do so may subject the sponsor to civil or criminal penalties.”
In short, the duty is statutory, not administrative. The law views this as part of your binding contract with the U.S. government.
Penalties for Failing to File Form I-865
Failing to update your address isn’t harmless — it can lead to real consequences. Failure to report an address change is a violation of the sponsorship agreement and may jeopardize the sponsor’s status to sponsor other immigrants. In addition, a fine may be imposed for failing to update your address.
Penalties for failing to notify USCIS can include fines ranging from $250 to $5,000, depending on the knowledge of financial assistance received by the immigrant. In some cases, jail time is also a possible penalty for willful non-compliance.
Failure to comply could also result in removal proceedings in certain cases, further underscoring the importance of keeping your information up to date.
1. Civil Penalties
Under INA § 213A(d)(2)(A) and 8 CFR § 213a.4, civil penalties may include:
- $250–$2,000 for each failure to report.
- Up to $5,000 if the failure occurred when the government needed to enforce your financial support obligation.
Violating the requirement to notify USCIS of a change of address can also result in fines up to $200.
- $250–$2,000 for each failure to report.
- Up to $5,000 if the failure occurred when the government needed to enforce your financial support obligation.
2. Criminal Penalties
If the failure is willful and intentional, the Department of Justice can pursue criminal prosecution for making false statements or concealment under 18 U.S.C. § 1001. Individuals can also be jailed for up to 30 days for failing to inform USCIS of their new address.
Essential Info: Ignoring I-865 isn’t just a paperwork mistake — it’s a violation of a legal duty enforceable in court.
3. Enforcement Examples
- If your sponsored immigrant receives means-tested public benefits (like Medicaid or SNAP), the government may demand reimbursement — and if you cannot be located because you never filed I-865, penalties apply.
- In extreme cases, the U.S. Attorney General may enforce collection through civil litigation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing I-865 with AR-11Sponsors often assume their AR-11 filing covers both themselves and their sponsored immigrant — it does not.
- Relying on the immigrant to update USCISThe duty to file is personal to the sponsor, even if you no longer live together.
- Filing late or incomplete formsUSCIS treats a missing signature, incorrect A-Number, or missing address as non-compliance. If there isn’t enough space on the form or if USCIS requests it, be sure to provide any required additional information or supporting documents to avoid delays or denials.
- Not keeping proofAlways keep certified mailing receipts or digital confirmations for at least 10 years.
Important Note:
If your sponsored immigrant later applies for citizenship, USCIS may review the I-864 sponsor history — including I-865 compliance.
Potential Real-World Scenario
Example:
John D., a U.S. citizen, sponsored his wife using Form I-864. Two years later, they separated and John moved without filing I-865. The government later mailed a reimbursement notice for medical expenses his wife received. Because John’s address was outdated, he never received it. The case proceeded to collections, and John was fined $3,500 for non-compliance with the address-update rule.
Moral: filing I-865 promptly can prevent legal and financial headaches.
How to Prove You Filed Form I-865
If questioned, USCIS accepts the following as proof:
- A certified mail receipt or USPS tracking showing delivery.
- A dated copy of the I-865 form signed by you.
- USCIS confirmation notice (if filed online or via the Contact Center). You should keep a copy of Form I-865 and proof of submission during your sponsorship period.
- A certified mail receipt or USPS tracking showing delivery.
- A dated copy of the I-865 form signed by you.
- USCIS confirmation notice (if filed online or via the Contact Center).
Expert Tip:
Store these proofs digitally and with your tax documents. USCIS may request evidence years later.
Filing Checklist – At a Glance
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Download Form I-865 | Use only the latest version from USCIS |
| 2 | Complete all sections accurately | Completing every section carefully and matching data with your I-864 helps prevent delays |
| 3 | Sign & date | Unsigned = rejected |
| 4 | Mail to USCIS | Use certified mail |
| 5 | Keep proof | Keep for the life of the sponsorship |
Fast Fact:
You can’t file Form I-865 online (as of October 2025); it must be mailed.
How an Immigration Lawyer Can Help
A qualified immigration attorney can:
- Confirm whether your I-864 obligation is still in effect.
- Ensure your I-865 is properly filed and recorded.
- Help if you received a penalty notice or collection action from the government.
- Advise on termination events that release your sponsorship liability.
Experienced immigration attorneys can help sponsors navigate complex immigration law requirements, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.
At Herman Legal Group, we have helped thousands of sponsors and immigrants understand and comply with their affidavit-of-support duties. Book a consultation to discuss your case confidentially.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This section provides answers to common questions about Form I-865, including requirements for sponsors, lawful permanent residents, and foreign nationals.
Q1: Do foreign nationals need to update their address with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)?
Yes. Foreign nationals, including those in the U.S. on visas or other immigration statuses, are legally required to update their address with USCIS within 10 days of moving. Failure to do so may result in penalties or affect your immigration status.
Q2: Do I need to file I-865 if I sponsored multiple immigrants?
Yes, file a separate I-865 for each sponsored immigrant.
Q3: Do lawful permanent residents need to file Form I-865?
No. Only sponsors who have submitted Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) are required to file Form I-865. Lawful permanent residents (LPRs) who are not sponsors do not need to file this form, but they must still update their address with USCIS.
Q4: Can I file I-865 online?
No. As of October 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) only accepts paper-filed submissions.
Q5: What happens if I move to another country?
If you move to another country, you must still notify USCIS if your sponsorship obligation continues. The U.S. must remain your principal country of residence (domicile) for sponsorship purposes, and you are required to keep your address updated with USCIS.
Q6: Do I still need to file I-865 if the immigrant moved out?
Yes. The duty belongs to you, not the immigrant. You must file even if you’re no longer in contact.
Key Takeaways
- Form I-865 is a legal requirement for every sponsor who filed Form I-864.
- You must report any address change within 30 days of moving.
- Failure to do so can result in civil fines up to $5,000 or even criminal penalties.
- The obligation will remain until the affidavit of support terminates by law.
- Always keep proof of timely submission to protect yourself legally.
About Richard T. Herman
Richard T. Herman is an immigration attorney with over 30 years of experience representing immigrants, families, and businesses nationwide. He is co-author of Immigrant, Inc.and founder of Herman Legal Group, recognized as “The Law Firm for Immigrants.”
Visit LawFirm4Immigrants.com to learn more or schedule a consultation.
Resources: Learn More About Form I-865 and I-864 Sponsor Obligations
Official USCIS & Federal Resources
- USCIS Form I-865 – Sponsor’s Notice of Change of Address — Official USCIS page with the form, instructions, and filing info. USCIS
- USCIS Form I-864 – Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act — The sponsor’s financial support obligation form. USCIS
- 8 CFR Part 213a – Affidavits of Support on Behalf of Immigrants — Federal regulation covering sponsor obligations including change-of-address requirement. eCFR+1
- 8 U.S.C. § 1183a – Requirements for Sponsor’s Affidavit of Support — Statutory text establishing address-change and penalty rules. U.S. Code
- USCIS Change of Address Information — Guidance on address updates for both sponsors and immigrants. USCIS
Legal & Practical Guidance
- Introductory Guide to the Affidavit of Support (ILRC, Sept 2022) — A practical advisory on Form I-864 and related sponsor duties. Immigrant Legal Resource Center
- 9 FAM 601.14 – Affidavit of Support | U.S. Dept. of State — Department of State guidance on Form I-864 contract and obligations. Foreign Affairs Manual
Printable Resources
- Download USCIS Form I-865 (PDF) — Direct PDF of I-865 form. USCIS
- Download USCIS Form I-864 Instructions (PDF) — Instructions for I-864 form. USCIS
Citations
- Immigration and Nationality Act, § 213A(d)(2)(A) — 8 U.S.C. § 1183a(d)(2)(A) U.S. Code
- 8 C.F.R. § 213a.3 — Change of address requirement for sponsors. Legal Information Institute+1
Cleveland-Area Immigration Resources
- Cleveland Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs
City agency dedicated to supporting and empowering immigrants through civic engagement, community outreach, and access to local services. - Global Cleveland
Non-profit organization connecting international newcomers with jobs, mentoring, and community resources throughout Northeast Ohio. - Cuyahoga County Welcome Center
Provides walk-in support for new arrivals — including housing, job assistance, benefits enrollment, and translation services. - Legal Aid Society of Cleveland
Offers free or low-cost legal representation in immigration and civil matters for low-income immigrants and families in Cuyahoga and surrounding counties. - Catholic Charities Migration and Refugee Services – Cleveland Diocese
Provides resettlement, legal assistance, English classes, and refugee integration programs. - Asian Services In Action (ASIA Inc.) – Cleveland Office
Multilingual organization offering legal, social, and health services to immigrants and refugees in Greater Cleveland.
Columbus / Central Ohio Immigration Resources
- City of Columbus – New American Initiative
Local government program connecting immigrants and refugees to city services, language access, and workforce development opportunities. - Community Refugee and Immigration Services (CRIS)
One of Ohio’s largest immigrant-support non-profits, offering legal immigration assistance, job training, and youth mentorship programs. - US Together – Columbus Office
Refugee resettlement agency providing case management, integration, and interpreter/translation support for new Americans. - Jewish Family Services of Columbus – Refugees & New Americans Program
Offers employment counseling, English instruction, housing assistance, and benefits enrollment for immigrants and refugees. - Ohio Legal Help – Immigration Resources
Online legal resource offering up-to-date guidance for immigrants and sponsors statewide, including Columbus-specific support. - Community Refugee Forum (CRF) – Columbus
A coalition of agencies and leaders coordinating community-based responses to refugee resettlement and immigrant integration in Central Ohio.
How These Local Resources Can Help
Fast Fact: Many of these organizations work closely with USCIS, the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, and local law firms like the Herman Legal Group to help sponsors comply with requirements such as Form I-865 and Form I-864.
| Service Area | Examples of Support |
|---|---|
| Legal Assistance | Immigration status help, sponsor compliance, public charge defense |
| Integration & Resettlement | ESL classes, job training, community orientation |
| Family & Benefits Support | SNAP, Medicaid enrollment, housing & transportation |
| Mental Health & Wellness | Trauma counseling, cultural adjustment services |
Key Insight: Both Cleveland and Columbus have strong immigrant-support ecosystems. Sponsors who recently moved should connect with these local agencies for guidance on updating USCIS forms, maintaining status, and accessing local services.
➡ Pro Tip: Always verify you’re using the latest edition of each USCIS form before filing. Submitting outdated forms may cause rejection or delay in processing.
