Difference Between Affidavit and Financial Support?

An Affidavit of Financial Support and a Letter of Financial Support serve similar purposes for student visa sponsorship, but they differ in formality, structure, and legal significance.

1. Affidavit of Financial Support

• Formality: This is a formal, legally binding document, usually notarized, that declares a sponsor’s commitment to financially support a student throughout their studies.

• Content: It typically includes detailed financial information such as the sponsor's income, bank statements, and explicit terms of support (e.g., covering tuition, living expenses).

• Legal Standing: As an affidavit, it’s a sworn statement with legal consequences for misrepresentation. It’s often required by visa-issuing authorities to confirm the sponsor’s financial capability and commitment.

• Typical Use: This is more commonly requested by embassies or consulates during the student visa application process, as it provides a more formal guarantee of financial support.

2. Letter of Financial Support

• Formality: A less formal document than an affidavit, it is usually a simple letter that states a person or organization’s intent to financially support the student.

• Content: The letter usually mentions the sponsor’s relationship to the student, the duration, and scope of support, but may not require detailed financial documentation.

• Legal Standing: Unlike an affidavit, this letter is not notarized or legally binding, and it does not carry the same level of legal responsibility.

• Typical Use: Some schools or programs may accept a letter of financial support for internal purposes, like admissions. However, consulates may still require an affidavit for visa processing.

In Summary:

The Affidavit of Financial Support is legally binding and usually notarized, providing a more formal assurance to immigration authorities. The Letter of Financial Support is simpler and less formal, typically for initial admissions or informal purposes but not usually accepted in place of an affidavit for visa processing.