ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresName Change After Marriage...Seeking Answers!
QUOTE (Niagaenola @ Oct 16 2007, 07:13 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Is there something special that she has to do in Canada to be able to use your name? When I got married here in the US I was able to just start using my married name from the day we got married... I did have to send my Passport off with a copy of our marriage certificate to get that changed to my married name but that is all I had to do??? what does she have to do in Canada...

Kez



No there's not much that she needs to do, but in Canada the toughest thing to get changed is the Citizen's Card that Canadian Citizens carry. I have read online that it takes quite a long time to get that changed. Obviously the passport is also another important legal document that would need to be re-issued with her new name.

Btw, how much did the new passport cost? Did you have to pay the full fee or was it cheaper? Just curious. Thanks!
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-10-16 18:30:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresName Change After Marriage...Seeking Answers!
Hello All!

I just found this site and I am so impressed by the wealth of information that's available on this forum. This is a great public service!!

My wife (Canadian citizen) and I got married in July and our marriage certificate was just mailed to me on the 12 of Oct. by the Gov't of Ontario office. The question I have is regarding the name that I can put on the I-130 and I-129F forms for my wife. I wanted to put her new name (she decided to move her maiden name to her middle name and take my last name as hers). However, she hasn't legally changed her name yet Canada and probably won't for another 2-3 months as she is very buy with school and work right now.

Will it be okay if I put her new name on the forms or do I have to put her maiden name on the form, as that is still her legal name? I figured that by doing this now, it will save a lot of hassle later on, but am afraid that this might cause a whole set of new issues. Advice anyone??

Secondly, has anyone filed I-130 and I-129 F forms at the same time to the Texas Service Center? I am in Georgia and that's where I will be submitting the petitions. Just want to see if they rejected someone's forms because the forms were submitted together.

These are the only questions I have. Other than that I am ready to submit the forms for my wife. Let the journey begin!!!

Any help/answers will be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-10-16 17:23:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresConsular Processing?
QUOTE (pushbrk @ Oct 19 2007, 11:36 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Fahad S @ Oct 18 2007, 07:47 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (pushbrk @ Oct 18 2007, 10:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (YuAndDan @ Oct 18 2007, 03:35 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
1) You do one of 2 things, you don't file the I-129F for the K-3, and let the I-130 process for IR-1/CR-1 OR you file I-824 to get the I-130 moved on to NVC for consular processing.

2) No drawbacks, the interview results in an IMMIGRANT visa which results in a green-card upon entry to the USA. K-3 has Adjustment of status and EAD to deal with ($1010 FEE)

The Immigrant visa is the better choice, but tends to take longer to process.


We really don't have any success stories for anybody requesting Consular filing at petition submission when both I-130 and I-129F are filed. (together or I-129F soon following)

What I have suggested recently but have no result for is to write in bold red ink at the top of the form, "Consular Processing Requested" and then also mention it in bold print in the cover letter. If that doesn't work, I don't know what will.

The I-824 is the solution when all else fails but that has been taking several months. You really want to take a hard look at whether to file the I-129F at all.


Yeah, I was thinking about writing it on the top of the petition and on the cover letter, but am afraid that they might reject my application if I write on the top. They might see it as clutter or not meeting requirements. Just what I was thinking...

Has anyone written on the I-130 that they are "Requesting Consular Processing" and had their petition rejected for having writing on the petition other than in the designated sections?


No such reports.


So I have decided that I will pursue the K3 route for my wife. From all the reasearch that I have done, members I have contacted, it seems that the approval of I-824 might just make the case drag on. I want to thank every one who has answered my questions thus far! Good luck to us all!

-Fahad
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-10-19 14:28:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresConsular Processing?
QUOTE (pushbrk @ Oct 18 2007, 10:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (YuAndDan @ Oct 18 2007, 03:35 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
1) You do one of 2 things, you don't file the I-129F for the K-3, and let the I-130 process for IR-1/CR-1 OR you file I-824 to get the I-130 moved on to NVC for consular processing.

2) No drawbacks, the interview results in an IMMIGRANT visa which results in a green-card upon entry to the USA. K-3 has Adjustment of status and EAD to deal with ($1010 FEE)

The Immigrant visa is the better choice, but tends to take longer to process.


We really don't have any success stories for anybody requesting Consular filing at petition submission when both I-130 and I-129F are filed. (together or I-129F soon following)

What I have suggested recently but have no result for is to write in bold red ink at the top of the form, "Consular Processing Requested" and then also mention it in bold print in the cover letter. If that doesn't work, I don't know what will.

The I-824 is the solution when all else fails but that has been taking several months. You really want to take a hard look at whether to file the I-129F at all.


Yeah, I was thinking about writing it on the top of the petition and on the cover letter, but am afraid that they might reject my application if I write on the top. They might see it as clutter or not meeting requirements. Just what I was thinking...

Has anyone written on the I-130 that they are "Requesting Consular Processing" and had their petition rejected for having writing on the petition other than in the designated sections?
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-10-18 21:47:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresConsular Processing?
QUOTE (YuAndDan @ Oct 18 2007, 08:09 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Fahad S @ Oct 18 2007, 07:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (YuAndDan @ Oct 18 2007, 06:35 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
1) You do one of 2 things, you don't file the I-129F for the K-3, and let the I-130 process for IR-1/CR-1 OR you file I-824 to get the I-130 moved on to NVC for consular processing.

2) No drawbacks, the interview results in an IMMIGRANT visa which results in a green-card upon entry to the USA. K-3 has Adjustment of status and EAD to deal with ($1010 FEE)

The Immigrant visa is the better choice, but tends to take longer to process.


Thanks!

At what point do I file the I-824 to get it moved to NVC?
After you have NOA2 for the I-130.


Thanks!
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-10-18 19:55:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresConsular Processing?
QUOTE (YuAndDan @ Oct 18 2007, 08:09 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Fahad S @ Oct 18 2007, 07:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (YuAndDan @ Oct 18 2007, 06:35 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
1) You do one of 2 things, you don't file the I-129F for the K-3, and let the I-130 process for IR-1/CR-1 OR you file I-824 to get the I-130 moved on to NVC for consular processing.

2) No drawbacks, the interview results in an IMMIGRANT visa which results in a green-card upon entry to the USA. K-3 has Adjustment of status and EAD to deal with ($1010 FEE)

The Immigrant visa is the better choice, but tends to take longer to process.


Thanks!

At what point do I file the I-824 to get it moved to NVC?
After you have NOA2 for the I-130.


Thanks!
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-10-18 19:20:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresConsular Processing?
QUOTE (YuAndDan @ Oct 18 2007, 06:35 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
1) You do one of 2 things, you don't file the I-129F for the K-3, and let the I-130 process for IR-1/CR-1 OR you file I-824 to get the I-130 moved on to NVC for consular processing.

2) No drawbacks, the interview results in an IMMIGRANT visa which results in a green-card upon entry to the USA. K-3 has Adjustment of status and EAD to deal with ($1010 FEE)

The Immigrant visa is the better choice, but tends to take longer to process.


Thanks!

At what point do I file the I-824 to get it moved to NVC?
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-10-18 18:05:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresConsular Processing?
All -

I am looking to get some clarification. I understand what consular processing is. My question is on how to properly request consular processing when submitting the I-130 and I-129F together. I do not want my I-130 withheld at the USCIS office for the AOS later on. Instead, I would like my I-130 to get forwarded to NVC in case it gets approved prior to the I-129F getting approved.

Two questions stem from this:
1) How do I request consular processing? There's no box or section on the I-130 that allows you to designate your preference.
2) What are the drawbacks of consular processing? Will my wife and I still have the option of choosing whatever visa (K3 vs Immigrant) we want for her, if both petitions get approved together and are forwarded to the NVC?

Any clarification/guidance will be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,
Fahad
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-10-18 17:18:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresK3 Versus I130
QUOTE (Haole @ Oct 17 2007, 01:11 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Cetin Tonya @ Oct 16 2007, 04:35 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hey, can anyone tell me what the difference in timelines and processes are once we get the NOA2s. I filed for both the I130 and K3-129F. And it seems that people are getting both approved at the same time- I mean the NOA2. SOOOOOOOOOO

If that is the case, what is the difference in time lines, process, required paperwork if one were to go with the I130 as opposed to the K3??

Just wondering if it takes about the same time and effort, because if that is the case it seems it would be better to go with the I130 due to the increase in fees for the adjustment of status for the permanent visa once he were to get here.....

Let me know guys... Thanks!!!
If there is ANY WAY possible go with the CR-1. You may have blew it tho filing both at the same time unless you specified you wanted "consular filing" for the I-130.
Service center will hold back the I-130!



What do you mean by "consular filing"? I am filing both petitions together and thougt that which ever one gets approved first, I will pursue that one. So do I need to do something special to keep that option open, in case I decide to go with the CR1?
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-10-18 11:44:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresForm G-325A Questin
Thanks guys! I called the service center hotline and was told that if I haven't lived outside U.S. in the last five years, then I can leave that section blank or put, "none" or "n/a".

Thanks to those who responded.

-Fahad
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-10-23 10:01:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresForm G-325A Questin
All -

In reviewing my application for the final time before send-off, I noticed that I keep going back and thinking about one question. The question on form G-325A that asks about the last residence outside USA of more than 1 year. I immigrated to U.S. in 1996 and haven't lived outside of U.S. since then. Do I need to put my last address from Pakistan (from 11 years ago) in that box or is that something else. At this point, I just have "NONE" in there.

I'm really not sure what exatly that box is referring to. Would anybody be kind enough to clarify for me?

Thanks!
-Fahad
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-10-23 07:43:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresMy Complete Application Packet Returned To Me After 6 Weeks
QUOTE (vbtbmrt @ Dec 15 2007, 05:09 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
well maybe they only forwarded them for short time after fee increase and stop doing it because instructions say mail to csc or vermont depending or where you live. if we had more info where your from we would tell you which one to mail it to. you can file both together but has to go to one of the 2 main offices good luck


The letter that was attached to my returned application states:
"Per the USCIS announcement issued on June 21, 2007, USCIS instructs applicants that on or after August 29th 2007 to direct file their forms that were transitioned during the 2006 Bi Specialization initiative. The form filing instructions are by geographic jurisdiction and form type.

so that means csc or vermont


Well, I am from Georgia. According to the I-130 Instructions and an immigration officer I mailed both the petitions together to TSC. They were supposed to forward to CSC. Given the situation I am in right now, do you feel that I can still mail both together to CSC, or do I need to mail I-130 separately to Chicago and then wait for NOA1 to be sent by CSC, before I send off my 1-129F (K3) to CSC?

I did everything as per instructions. The immigration officer and several members here on the forums validated that both applications can be sent to TSC together and they forward to CSC.

If they were rejecting my I-129F, then they should have sent only that one back and should have forwarded the I-130 to CSC or Chicago, whatever would have been appropriate.

Sorry for my soap box but this just boils my blood!!

-Fahad
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-12-15 17:32:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresMy Complete Application Packet Returned To Me After 6 Weeks
QUOTE (spidergirl @ Dec 15 2007, 04:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Fahad S @ Dec 15 2007, 03:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I am leaning towards filing the I-130 as a stand alone to Chicago and then once I receive the NOA1 then I will send in the 1-29F to CSC. I am afraid that if I send both petitions together to CSC, they will reject it and send it back to me. I am utterly confused!!

What's the process of speaking to an immigration officer? Everytime I call USCIS, I get a customer service rep. Is there something special I need to do? Do I just request to be transferred to an immigration officer?


This is the announcement that they USCIS is refering to: http://www.uscis.gov...iling062107.pdf

This is the instruction on where to file your I-129F : http://www.uscis.gov...00045f3d6a1RCRD


This is the filing instruction for I-130 (see page 3- Where to file):http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/I-130instr.pdf


Thanks Spidergirl, but I had already found those. The question I am really posing is that, why were the petitions returned to me? They should have been forwarded to Chicago Lockbox or CSC.
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-12-15 16:31:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresMy Complete Application Packet Returned To Me After 6 Weeks
I am leaning towards filing the I-130 as a stand alone to Chicago and then once I receive the NOA1 then I will send in the 1-29F to CSC. I am afraid that if I send both petitions together to CSC, they will reject it and send it back to me. I am utterly confused!!

What's the process of speaking to an immigration officer? Everytime I call USCIS, I get a customer service rep. Is there something special I need to do? Do I just request to be transferred to an immigration officer?
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-12-15 16:03:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresMy Complete Application Packet Returned To Me After 6 Weeks
Susie,

I know! That's what I was told to do. Not sure what happened here. I want to make sure I pinpoint the exact issue and only file after I understand what my mistake was. I mean I went through the guides, instructions, forums several times to ensure that I am not missing something. After everything, this still happened. I am just really mad about the fact that they returned both my applications.

I just checked my complete packet against the instructions from the two packets and I didn't miss anything. I thought that perhaps I sent the wrong fee, but it was and still is $355 for I-130. According to the June announcement the I-130 and I-129F should be filed to the same location and I did that and what did they do...they slapped that same announcement on to my packet and returned it. So weird!!

Guys, I really need to figure out what happened so please any theories or advice from prior experiences will be greatly appreciated.

-Fahad
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-12-15 14:41:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresMy Complete Application Packet Returned To Me After 6 Weeks
Those instructions conflict with the June 2, 2007 announcement that states that I-129F should be filed to the same service center as the I-130. Therefore, I sent it to TSC.
http://www.uscis.gov...00045f3d6a1RCRD

Why would they return my I-130 packet? I can see them returning just he I-129F packet, but why would you not just forward my I-130 to Chicago facility?

I think, now I would have to send my I-130 packet to the Chicago facility and then once I receive my NOA1 then I'll send the I-129F to the CSC or do you guys think that I can still mail both packets together as before to the Chicago Lockbox facility?

-Fahad
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-12-15 14:25:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresMy Complete Application Packet Returned To Me After 6 Weeks
All -

Yesterday TSC returned my complete application (included Walmart money order for $355), complete I-130 packet and complete I-129F packet. They received it on Oct. 29th, 2007 and I filed to TSC as per instructions because I am in Atlanta, Georgia.

The letter that was attached to my returned application states:
"Per the USCIS announcement issued on June 21, 2007, USCIS instructs applicants that on or after August 29th 2007 to direct file their forms that were transitioned during the 2006 Bi Specialization initiative. The form filing instructions are by geographic jurisdiction and form type.

The revised filing instructions include Bi Specialization forms:
Form I-129F"

It asks me to consult uscis website for additional filing instructions.

Okay, so now can anyone who has experience with this shed some light on my issue? What announcement are they referring to...does anyone have a ling for this announcement? My packet was put together flawlessly. I was expecting the NOA1 and instead I get this. My hands are literally shaking right now as I am mad and a little scared about the fact that I messed up somewhere.

Guys, please help me in turning this thing around so I can mail out the packet again on Monday, but this time fix the issue which had my petitions returned.

Thanks to all in advance!!

-Fahad
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-12-15 13:54:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresOctober Filers Where Are You?!
Hi everyone!

Sent the I-130 and I-129F (for K3) together along with a money order to Texas service center in last week of Oct. They received it on the 29th of Oct, as shown by the return receipt. From what I have read and understood there's a significant delay in the processing of the apps. Well, I guess we can't do much, so I'm going to be keeping my fingers crossed and will just wait for the NOA1 to arrive in the mail.

Good luck to us all!
-Fahad
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-11-28 01:24:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresOctober / November I-130 2007 Filers
I filed in last week of october. Filed I-130 and I-129f together and my complete packet was returned to me yesterday. I am very annoyed right now.

here's the link to my post that discusses why they returned it.
http://www.visajourn...howtopic=100794
Fahad SMaleCanada2007-12-15 14:03:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAre there any 2007 filers still awaiting NOA2
i applied back on dec 2007 and am still waiting for my NOA2. every time i call vsc i get the same response that it's pending. it's very frustrating!
Fahad SMaleCanada2008-06-13 23:25:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresSending downloadable DS 230 using Jamie's shortcuts
Hi Cokebbeh.

I checked again Jamie's shortcuts, and could not find whether to print as single or Double-sided (just like the instruction for I-864 to print as double-sided).

Anyway, it would help (will give me more confidence/peace of mind) if you let me know whether the actual DS 230 you received from NVC is double-sided (back to back) or just single sided.

Thanks so much for your help.

God bless.

Francel (F)

Hi All,

I am petititioning my PARENTS (IR5).

I'm presently waiting for the DS 230 to be generated by NVC.

Can anyone tell me if the actual DS 230 form (Application for Immigrant visa) you got in the mail from NVC was double-sided (back-to back) or just single sided?

Was it printed in color or just plain black/white? I noticed that the downloadable forms have yellow margins under the names.

Should I print the DS 230 exactly the same way.....same color?

I am going to use Jamie's shortcuts and download the DS 230 from the Dept Of State website.

Thank you and I'd appreciate any kind of help. :innocent:

Francel



It does not matter whether back and front. The color is standard as it is a PDF file. I used James and did not have any problems. Just follow all the instructions and u will be fine...


FrancelFemale02007-01-04 21:48:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresSending downloadable DS 230 using Jamie's shortcuts
Hi All,

I am petititioning my PARENTS (IR5).

I'm presently waiting for the DS 230 to be generated by NVC.

Can anyone tell me if the actual DS 230 form (Application for Immigrant visa) you got in the mail from NVC was double-sided (back-to back) or just single sided?

Was it printed in color or just plain black/white? I noticed that the downloadable forms have yellow margins under the names.

Should I print the DS 230 exactly the same way.....same color?

I am going to use Jamie's shortcuts and download the DS 230 from the Dept Of State website.

Thank you and I'd appreciate any kind of help. :innocent:

Francel
FrancelFemale02007-01-04 01:48:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresBirth Certicates and Police Clearance
Thanks Jazzy.

You gave me peace of mind.
My mind is running like crazy.

I see that your Visa processing is going very fast....

COngratulations and goodluck on February (interview).

Francel (F)

HI,

NSO birthcertificates on NSO security paper are all you need as well as NSO marraige certificate (if applicable and I suspect it is)...nso papers are the "annotated by appropriate authority" as far as the police certificate...nothing special just normal police clearance....they wll need a police clearance from every country they stayed in for more than 6 months since age 14.

Jazzy

Hello Philippine applicants, (I'm petitioning my parents-IR5).

This question is for anyone (Philippine applicants) who's case has been completed/approved by NVC and forwarded to Manila. I would really be thankful.

For the NSO Birth Certificate, per NVC instructions, how did you get it "annotated by the appropriate authority indicating that it is an extract from the official records."? Or will NVC accept the NSO Birth certificate as it is?

For the Police Certificates, what should I tell my parents? Is there a special police certificate needed that is different out of the ordinary?

My parents need to get about 8 police certificates. Whoah. :blush:

Any help/advice would be appreciated........

Thank you....and God bless.

Lourdes (F)


FrancelFemale02007-01-04 21:57:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresBirth Certicates and Police Clearance
Hello Philippine applicants, (I'm petitioning my parents-IR5).

This question is for anyone (Philippine applicants) who's case has been completed/approved by NVC and forwarded to Manila. I would really be thankful.

For the NSO Birth Certificate, per NVC instructions, how did you get it "annotated by the appropriate authority indicating that it is an extract from the official records."? Or will NVC accept the NSO Birth certificate as it is?

For the Police Certificates, what should I tell my parents? Is there a special police certificate needed that is different out of the ordinary?

My parents need to get about 8 police certificates. Whoah. :blush:

Any help/advice would be appreciated........

Thank you....and God bless.

Lourdes (F)
FrancelFemale02007-01-04 01:44:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresRecent Medical Exam, other misc
Correction: I meant HERPES Zoster Virus for "SHINGLES"..........not "Varicella zoster".----------for the latent infection for Chickenpox (when the dormant chickenpox virus in the system is reactivated).

Sorry,,,,,I was typing very fast!


Just additional info:

Her vaccination history will be the basis for the physician's decision.
She may have gotten some vaccines already, but she needs proof that she has completed the series.
For those of you who believe that you had chickenpox, measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles), already........
.........but has NO proof............and of course you do not want to be given LIVE or attenuated vaccines that may be of no use to you (and sometimes harmful but only in about 0.3% in cases
This is what you need to do to satisfy any doctor or qualified physician: (Only if you hate vaccines)
To prove that you had these diseases------you need to provide an evidence of Immunity /"Protection".

GO to any Internal medicince or General practice doctor:
Ask them to order these lab tests (blood work):

1)Varicella (chickenpox) antibody titer
2)Tetanus antibody titer
3) Measles Mumps Rubella (or MMR) antibody titer

Your blood test results will show to which diseases you are protected already. =======Evidence of Immunity
It will show LOW level, high level or Inadequate level......they will be in "numbers".
If its in the Low level---------you would need the vaccine.

For those who can't afford the test: I do not know how much it is in the Phils.------unless you have medical insurance that will pay for it.
Its okay to get the vaccines.....even if you believe you've had THAT DISEASE (equals PROTECTIO/IMMUNITY FROM THAT DISEASE). MMR is proven to be safe here in U.S.....even if given in extra.
When a patient is unsure about her history-----vaccines and diseases (here in US)......we give the vaccines anyway. Its 3 vaccines in 1. That's why its called MMR.
Giving it is better than skipping it.

--------Except maybe for Chickenpox/Varicella vaccine.

From my studies........pathophysio---------if you had chickenpox already-----especially the FULL-BLOWN type-------and then you are given a Varicella/chickenpox vaccine----------in a small percentage-------it could activate another Varicella type ----1 mo. to 5 years later------the Varicella Zoster virus(VZV)----(or what they call in layterm "Shingles"-----its within the same family of virus----

The VJ members are right.....better start looking for those pox scars.
Or have a test.
Or just get the vaccine and pray for that Varicella(chickenpox) vaccine.
FYI----------for anyone who is Immunocompromised-------getting Radiation Therapy, Chemo, has Leukemia, Cancer, or you believe that your Immune system is not functioning well-----don't get that Varicella vaccine, if you believe you already had chickenpox. Its a Live virus I believe.......Those who are physicians/advanced nurses here......correct the info if wrong.

But if you really want to be in U.S.........then consider the St. Luke's physicians as kings.......since you have no choice.
Or get that blood work/test I've listed above.

Oh and the X-ray/radiation will be okay every other year...........more than that will be of concern.

Another reminder:
For those of you who are already here in US (new) and applying for jobs,

If they want you to be tested for TB (which is standard in ALL work places): PPD (purified protein derivative) is what they call it, but the test is actually called: "MANTOUX TEST"........People here in US just keep on saying PPD test.....PPD test.......PPD is actually the one that's placed in the small tuberculin syringe and injected to your skin (intradermal-------shallow-------about 15 degrees only)

If you were in the Philippines all your life: I would suggest showing your X-RAY report from St. Luke's........and DO NOT do that PPD SKIN test anymore.
Its useless for 98% of Filipinos. SHow that X-ray...

I've tested many Filipinos and they've tested positive-------not that they have Active TB........but they just had some exposure in Philippines.

6 years ago.......when I was new in US (I'm now a USC----with God's help)..............I didn't know anything about these even if I was an RN.
I had that X-ray in my hand.......then I had myself tested for that PPD/Mantoux.........its positive, of course.....and it almost created a scar on my beautiful, flawless forearm (joke about the beaut/flawless).
I was very submissive to everything. Now that I've learned the "ins" and "outs", I'm more tough and fights for what I learned in Grad school

I believe in Filipinos! Filipinos are very very smart!

FRANCEL
Family Nurse Practitioner & Advanced Practice RN


FrancelFemale02007-03-08 21:59:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresRecent Medical Exam, other misc
In fairness to Canada, according to my friends (nurses) who has lived and work there, they offer the BEST HEALTH INSURANCE and BENEFITS for Families.

--------compared to USA........where Health benefits/insurance of Americans are at stake............scares me sometimes......
I feel guilty for limiting the lab tests/diagnostic tests for those who can't pay.
These giant insurance companies........they dictate which......should we order for a patient (basis is capacity to pay)-------very wrong!!!.
They dictate which treatments can we only give for a particular patient. I hate it......I hate what's going on.
If we don't follow--------we pay the big expense out of pocket.

I'm worried about plain Medicaid/Medicare patients......to be honest.

To have the best kind of care: its better to be enrolled in one of those PPOs------like Blue-Cross Blue Shield rather than relying on Medicare/medicaid.
By having the best health insurance: we can give you--------all the best kind of care


francel, along with those exams in the USyou mentioned, she also has to take the state board exam, too, correct? Does se have to take both a state and a national? Or just a state?


FrancelFemale02007-03-08 17:01:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresRecent Medical Exam, other misc
Chris,

NCLEX-RN = National council for licensure exam of reg. nurses. Just 1.
During our time------we (those who have no US visas like me) had to take it SAIPAN. No Other option.
My rich classmates who had US Visitor's (multiple entry) visa (usually the wealthy ones)--------took NCLEX-RN in US,,,,,,,,while visiting Disneyland and Universal studios.

I think now, she can take it in some other Asian countries.........your sweetie would know better.

Before (from my AUnts' stories-------the oldies----the veteran nurses) : many years ago-------each state has its own exam--------that's why called "State boards".

But thousands of nurses complained especially the wives of the military-----who move almost every 2 years from state to state-------and had to take a different Board exam everytime (costly and a pain on the A- - )! And it was unfair!!!

Now, the exam standardized in all 50 + states,,,,,just like the Medical boards---and like the P.T., O.T Boards etc.
This was after the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) was formed.
Link:
https://www.ncsbn.org/index.htm





francel, along with those exams in the USyou mentioned, she also has to take the state board exam, too, correct? Does se have to take both a state and a national? Or just a state?


FrancelFemale02007-03-08 16:15:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresRecent Medical Exam, other misc
I believe you.
I believe in both of you.

Here's my my .02 cents:
We were 200+ in our BSN class of 99

I know some classmates who went to Ireland, some who went to Australia, some to Canada. Actually, a lot went to Sydney, Australia and Calagary, Toronto, Canada
60% went to US,,,,,,,,20% went to United Kingdom/London. Those who went to London were not able to save much-------very expensive cost of living.

For LOndon, there was no requirement except to pass the Philippine boards and 1 year experience
One of the countries (Nethelands) required my classmates to learn "Dutch" for 6 mos.

These are very good developed countries, of course.........beautiful! .
But many of my classmates changed their minds and applied to USA later.

Actually, 80% of those who went to other countries firs are now here. (Some stayed in those OTHER countries, mostly because found LOVE in that country------he he!
According to most of them their end goal is USA----------higher pay-----higher respect---equal rights etc, more options, etc,
London/UK, Australia, Canada, were just stepping stones for them.

I work in a place with 1 Canadian (M.D.), 1 Australian (RN), and 1 Hungarian (MD). Their husbands are Canadians and Australians too. I never asked them why they chose to leave their countries for US. I respect them. These are very rich countries (unlike the Third World countries)

Just my .02 cents........
(from my class' experience)



If you've known each other for at least 2 years: K1 visa is safe if you have documents to prove.
You can marry her in a Church (w/o a document) :-)

BUT: if you've known each other for less than a year......a civil wedding would satisfy the consuls more------- CR1 is probably better.

Anyway: this is my 0.2 cents:

Once your sweetie passes all her exams:
Philippine Boards for Nurses,
CGFNS (required in some states for foreign nurses)
IELTS exam (spoken, written english-----essay), reading test......used to be called TOEFL/TSE
NCLEX-RN (US Licensure for nurses - RN):

Always include the proof of PASSING with your papers: Copies only.

When an Consul sees that a K1 applicant is actually very qualifed to be a green-card holder (EB3 Employment-based visa for nurses): the consult will never never doubt the relationship.

This is because she won't need you to qualify for a green-card, actually since she has passed all the exams to work in US as an RN.
If the consul sees that she's in K1 visa in spite of her qualifications......they would think that SHE'S MADLY IN LOVE WITH YOU.

EB3 takes only about 15 -24 mos.-----Immigrant visa----shortcut-----no conditions-------she'll still be single.....and free to date anyone in US........
K1 visa is 5 - 12 mos---------conditional--------and needs to marry soon

If she would be still in a K1 visa,,,,,it means....she does not want to be apart from you.
'COz...... if she was in the EB3-----of course she goes to the state where the sponsoring Hospital (for Immigrant visa) is located.........away from COLORADO:-) and finish the 1 year contract.


I already believe that you're both very much in love!

And ......beautiful couple!!!!!

But if you love her very very much......don't let her get away from your sight......don't allow her to apply for EB3.
Or she'll meet someone in U.S.......one never knows.......only God can tell.

Francel

Salamat. She passed the Philippines Board, the tests in the US will take some time, but she's not worried about that right away. She is willing to work at any job that will hire her.
The fact that comforts me is she doesn't need me to be a successful nurse or come to the US. She has a cousin in Ireland that offered to take her in and get her a nursing JOb, a job offer in Australia, and a cousin in Texas thats a nurse that was willing to take her in. Fortunately, she is in love with me. But I am going to do everything in my power to get her on the right track to success, because I love her.


Edited by Francel, 08 March 2007 - 03:59 PM.

FrancelFemale02007-03-08 15:56:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresRecent Medical Exam, other misc
For Chris and for everyone who's interested on what vaccines we give in US (by age and co-morbidities):

See this link: http://www.cdc.gov/n...lt-schedule.pdf (cut and paste)

All clinics/hospitals in US use the above CDC guidelines (by heart).

If you need the ones for "Babies" and "Children/Adolescients", email me and I'll send it to you.

Or just go to the CDC website.
FrancelFemale02007-03-08 11:02:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresRecent Medical Exam, other misc
If you've known each other for at least 2 years: K1 visa is safe if you have documents to prove.
You can marry her in a Church (w/o a document) :-)

BUT: if you've known each other for less than a year......a civil wedding would satisfy the consuls more------- CR1 is probably better.

Anyway: this is my 0.2 cents:

Once your sweetie passes all her exams:
Philippine Boards for Nurses,
CGFNS (given by Philadelphia, USA) in the Phils (required in some states for foreign nurses). example: Texas, Georgia etc.
IELTS exam (spoken, written english-----essay), reading test......used to be called TOEFL/TSE (test of English as a foreign language)
NCLEX-RN (US Licensure/Boards for nurses - RN): -----not the LVN/LPN

Always include the proof of PASSING with your papers: Copies only.

When an Consul sees that a K1 applicant is actually very qualifed to be a green-card holder (EB3 Employment-based visa for nurses) ie.....passed ALL the exams: the consul will never never doubt the relationship.
And as a bonus: if the petitioner is NEAR (slightly above ) the 125 % povery line (borderline);;;;;;the consulls will ignore it because most RNs make $70,000 a year. They would automatically assume. (of course not in 100% of cases)-------considering the health, debts...criminal records of the applicant too.
Also, when she becomes an Advanced practice nurse (diagnoses and prescribes meds/narcotics)----the salary would be higher too.......(just 6 semesters in Grad school)

All of the above means she won't need you to qualify for a green-card, actually, since she has passed all the exams to work in US as an RN.
If the consul sees that she's in K1 visa in spite of her qualifications......they would think that SHE'S MADLY IN LOVE WITH YOU.

EB3 takes only about 15 -24 mos.-----Immigrant visa----shortcut-----no conditions-------she'll still be single.....and free to date anyone in US........
K1 visa is 5 - 12 mos---------conditional--------and needs to marry soon

If she would be still in a K1 visa,,,,,it means....she does not want to be apart from you.
'COz...... if she was in the EB3-----of course she goes to the state where the sponsoring Hospital (for Immigrant visa) is located.........away from COLORADO:-) and finish the 1 year contract.


I already believe that you're both very much in love!

And ......beautiful couple!!!!!

But if you love her very very much......don't let her get away from your sight......don't allow her to apply for EB3.
Or she'll meet someone in U.S.......one never knows.......only God can tell.

Francel
FrancelFemale02007-03-08 10:55:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresRecent Medical Exam, other misc
If you've known each other for at least 2 years: K1 visa is safe if you have documents to prove.
You can marry her in a Church (w/o a document) :-)

BUT: if you've known each other for less than a year......a civil wedding would satisfy the consuls more------- CR1 is probably better.

Anyway: this is my 0.2 cents:

Once your sweetie passes all her exams:
Philippine Boards for Nurses,
CGFNS (required in some states for foreign nurses)
IELTS exam (spoken, written english-----essay), reading test......used to be called TOEFL/TSE
NCLEX-RN (US Licensure for nurses - RN):

Always include the proof of PASSING with your papers: Copies only.

When an Consul sees that a K1 applicant is actually very qualifed to be a green-card holder (EB3 Employment-based visa for nurses): the consult will never never doubt the relationship.

This is because she won't need you to qualify for a green-card, actually since she has passed all the exams to work in US as an RN.
If the consul sees that she's in K1 visa in spite of her qualifications......they would think that SHE'S MADLY IN LOVE WITH YOU.

EB3 takes only about 15 -24 mos.-----Immigrant visa----shortcut-----no conditions-------she'll still be single.....and free to date anyone in US........
K1 visa is 5 - 12 mos---------conditional--------and needs to marry soon

If she would be still in a K1 visa,,,,,it means....she does not want to be apart from you.
'COz...... if she was in the EB3-----of course she goes to the state where the sponsoring Hospital (for Immigrant visa) is located.........away from COLORADO:-) and finish the 1 year contract.


I already believe that you're both very much in love!

And ......beautiful couple!!!!!

But if you love her very very much......don't let her get away from your sight......don't allow her to apply for EB3.
Or she'll meet someone in U.S.......one never knows.......only God can tell.

Francel
FrancelFemale02007-03-08 10:44:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresRecent Medical Exam, other misc
Just additional info:

Her vaccination history will be the basis for the physician's decision.
She may have gotten some vaccines already, but she needs proof that she has completed the series.
For those of you who believe that you had chickenpox, measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles), already........
.........but has NO proof............and of course you do not want to be given LIVE or attenuated vaccines that may be of no use to you (and sometimes harmful but only in about 0.3% in cases
This is what you need to do to satisfy any doctor or qualified physician: (Only if you hate vaccines)
To prove that you had these diseases------you need to provide an evidence of Immunity /"Protection".

GO to any Internal medicince or General practice doctor:
Ask them to order these lab tests (blood work):

1)Varicella (chickenpox) antibody titer
2)Tetanus antibody titer
3) Measles Mumps Rubella (or MMR) antibody titer

Your blood test results will show to which diseases you are protected already. =======Evidence of Immunity
It will show LOW level, high level or Inadequate level......they will be in "numbers".
If its in the Low level---------you would need the vaccine.

For those who can't afford the test: I do not know how much it is in the Phils.------unless you have medical insurance that will pay for it.
Its okay to get the vaccines.....even if you believe you've had THAT DISEASE (equals PROTECTIO/IMMUNITY FROM THAT DISEASE). MMR is proven to be safe here in U.S.....even if given in extra.
When a patient is unsure about her history-----vaccines and diseases (here in US)......we give the vaccines anyway. Its 3 vaccines in 1. That's why its called MMR.
Giving it is better than skipping it.

--------Except maybe for Chickenpox/Varicella vaccine.

From my studies........pathophysio---------if you had chickenpox already-----especially the FULL-BLOWN type-------and then you are given a Varicella/chickenpox vaccine----------in a small percentage-------it could activate another Varicella type ----1 mo. to 5 years later------the Varicella Zoster virus(VZV)----(or what they call in layterm "Shingles"-----its within the same family of virus----

The VJ members are right.....better start looking for those pox scars.
Or have a test.
Or just get the vaccine and pray for that Varicella(chickenpox) vaccine.
FYI----------for anyone who is Immunocompromised-------getting Radiation Therapy, Chemo, has Leukemia, Cancer, or you believe that your Immune system is not functioning well-----don't get that Varicella vaccine, if you believe you already had chickenpox. Its a Live virus I believe.......Those who are physicians/advanced nurses here......correct the info if wrong.

But if you really want to be in U.S.........then consider the St. Luke's physicians as kings.......since you have no choice.
Or get that blood work/test I've listed above.

Oh and the X-ray/radiation will be okay every other year...........more than that will be of concern.

Another reminder:
For those of you who are already here in US (new) and applying for jobs,

If they want you to be tested for TB (which is standard in ALL work places): PPD (purified protein derivative) is what they call it, but the test is actually called: "MANTOUX TEST"........People here in US just keep on saying PPD test.....PPD test.......PPD is actually the one that's placed in the small tuberculin syringe and injected to your skin (intradermal-------shallow-------about 15 degrees only)

If you were in the Philippines all your life: I would suggest showing your X-RAY report from St. Luke's........and DO NOT do that PPD SKIN test anymore.
Its useless for 98% of Filipinos. SHow that X-ray...

I've tested many Filipinos and they've tested positive-------not that they have Active TB........but they just had some exposure in Philippines.

6 years ago.......when I was new in US (I'm now a USC----with God's help)..............I didn't know anything about these even if I was an RN.
I had that X-ray in my hand.......then I had myself tested for that PPD/Mantoux.........its positive, of course.....and it almost created a scar on my beautiful, flawless forearm (joke about the beaut/flawless).
I was very submissive to everything. Now that I've learned the "ins" and "outs", I'm more tough and fights for what I learned in Grad school

I believe in Filipinos! Filipinos are very very smart!

FRANCEL
Family Nurse Practitioner & Advanced Practice RN
FrancelFemale02007-03-08 10:03:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI-864 low income & asset substitution
I think in your case, you really have to find a co-sponsor.
Even if it should not have been asked since you're assets were satisfactory, the consul still has the final say.

Can your mom be a co-sponsor?

If not,
If you have diffficulty finding one (many are scared to be a co-sponsor)............
How about a promissory note (signed in front of a judge/lawyer) to a potential co-sponsor where you and your wife "agrees to pay in FULL the co-sponsor in the event that your wife becomes a public charge and the co-sponsor was obligated to pay the government".
I think a promissory note may make a potential co-sponsor say "yes" (that he/she could be Lorna's co-sponsor) to you.

What do you think? - Maria

I used my property assets because i only made 4,000.00 last year.
Assets worth 130,000(my home and property)

Called NVC and they said I could use my property tax invoices as proof of worth.
I got copy of that and deed and whatever else I cold get. NVC accepted it.

BUT.....
At interview CO told Lorna I couldn't support us on my income. Lorna then told him how my mom gives me money gifts up to 9,000 a year(from future inheiritance) I also had documnetation for that. But its non-taxiable income. And he still said I needed a co-sponsor.
Mike


FrancelFemale02007-03-27 14:58:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresVisiting While Applying For Green Card
My husband, David, visited me a couple of weeks ago for a week. I was a little nervous but he was pretty sure evrthing would be okay. He had visited the US a couple of times before. In fact he visited me for 3 months last summer Aug 06-Nov 06. At that time we had not started the IR1/CR1 process. He had absolutely no issue coming or leaving the US.
USA-JamaicaFemaleMalawi2007-07-10 00:33:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedureswaiting 6 months normal?
We filed our I130 petiton at the CSC on May 25th and received our NOA2 on October 10th. It looks right now it takes right around 6-7 months for approval of the I130 petitions. Keep your head up high....it should be any day now. I have read that the people that filed in July and later ..that it can take up to 9 months now for approvals because they are back logged with all the petitions.
Its a long journey....Call your congressman....maybe he can see where your file is..you will hear something soon...
Wes&SteffiFemaleGermany2007-11-18 02:09:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresStill waiting for Case number at NVC?
Thank you for your kind words. We always do have to remember there are people of worse than others. I just hope we hear something soon. I saw your timeline....congrats and good luck at the interview!!!!!!!

I do have to see the good things. Our congressman said once we have a case number he will definately try to expedite it because my father in law has just a couple of more months to live and wants to see his brand new grandson.
Wish you all the best out there......Good luck everybody
Wes&SteffiFemaleGermany2007-12-01 04:37:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresStill waiting for Case number at NVC?
We received our I130 petition approval on October 10th and still NVC has not received our case or assigned us a case number. I was checking if anybody else was approved around the same time has not heard anything yet from NVC. It has been almost 2 months and one of the operators said that was a long time, but nothing can be done til 90 days are over. Lets see if anybody else is in the same boat.....would love to hear from you and keep our spirits high.

Thanks Steffi devil.gif
Wes&SteffiFemaleGermany2007-11-30 10:56:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresgood news
after almost 8 weeks nvc assigned us a case number good.gif keep your heads up
Wes&SteffiFemaleGermany2007-12-04 04:06:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPregnant wife considerations
Uhh I feel for you. I am a german citizen married and here waiting in germany for my CR1 visa to come trough
I was in the same situation as you are in right now. I just had our son on October 29th and ..when we started the process it was back in May and I was pregnant and even had a very high risk pregnancy because of complications and prior experiences.
We tried everything...called the congressman...etc...NOTHING. USCIS told us it could not be expedited because Germany was a country with a very good health system and I was taken care of here in Germany as well as in the US.
We also already have a 31/2 year old little girl and she had to go back to the US because I was on bedrest ...they didnt even consider her and us being seperated as important enough.
I would try your congressman, but dont get your hopes up....If I could help you guys with any questions..let me know..if your wife needs someone to talk to that was in the same situation or has questions...I am still here in Germany...I would love to have contact with someone in the same situation.
Keep your head up high...you will get through it...IT IS VERY HARD....my husband has not seen his son as of yet...but we hope to be done soon.
Good luck and I am thinking of you.
Wes&SteffiFemaleGermany2007-12-11 13:28:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHappy New Year!!!!!!!!!
QUOTE (Germanchick2502 @ Jan 1 2008, 03:00 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Happy New Year!!!!!!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OF YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

2008 Will be our year.....stay strong!!!!! good.gif
Wes&SteffiFemaleGermany2008-01-01 13:28:00