Question about my wife's visa...?

Question

Could an hospital bill for emergency care be ever considered a "means-tested public benefit" as in form I-864?

For my English wife's visa we are required to get an additional Affidavit of Support (form I-864) from an American citizen besides myself. I have asked my Sister to file this form on our behalf. My Sister is worried about a scenario wherein my wife receives medical care and runs up a bill and then the government comes after my Sister's house or savings account. Is this a real concern? Could this type of scenario lead to action under form I-864?

Answer 1

When you sponsor someone for immigration that person is financially responsible for the immigrat for 10 years.  You are basically saying that you can support them so that they don't become what is called a public charge.

Go to these links and it explains in detail what immigration deems to be a public charge, this should answer some of your sisters questions about her responsibilities as your wifes sponsor:

http://www.uscis.gov/files/article/publi...

http://www.uscis.gov/files/article/publi...

http://www.uscis.gov/files/article/Publi...

http://www.uscis.gov/files/article/publi...