ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCo-Sponsor & 2009 Poverty Lines
QUOTE (dimanuni @ Feb 8 2009, 05:30 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Forget where I read this, but

"The co-sponsor must have sufficient income on his/her own to qualify under the poverty guidelines, regardless of the petitioner's income. The co-sponsor must also be a US Citizen and at least 21 years old."

So in order for a co-sponsor to be legitimate, your income doesn't count. So I guess conceivably, you might be $1 shy of the 125% of poverty guideline (which for household of 2 is around $18,250), and still your co-sponsor would need to completely meet the 125% of poverty guideline for a household of THREE (you, your fiance, and the co-sponsor, plus maybe everyone else in the household).

Does that help?


Very much! smile.gif Thank you!
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-08 16:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCo-Sponsor & 2009 Poverty Lines
QUOTE (Anh map @ Feb 8 2009, 03:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
http://aspe.hhs.gov/...09poverty.shtml

Here is the 2009 Poverty Guideline from US Health and Human Services website. 125% is $18,212.00


Thanks! I thought before I had a link that listed 100%, 110%, 125% for all different numbers of households.. I can't remember where, though.
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-08 14:44:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCo-Sponsor & 2009 Poverty Lines
QUOTE (Sinergy @ Feb 8 2009, 03:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
all of it


That doesn't quite answer my question. Someone is telling me that my co-sponsor's income will need to meet 125% of the poverty line for himself, any of his dependants, myself, and my fiance. I see one thing missing here- my income. Which is why I asked what part my income plays in all of that.


Edited by GJen, 08 February 2009 - 02:43 PM.

GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-08 14:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCo-Sponsor & 2009 Poverty Lines
QUOTE (jasman0717 @ Feb 8 2009, 02:10 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Their income must be 125% of the poverty level counting all dependants including the petitioner and beneficiary


So what part does my income play in all of this?
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-08 14:17:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCo-Sponsor & 2009 Poverty Lines
I thought I read somewhere that it was 10%. Is this correct? I'm not sure if that's right, but would that mean:

my income + X% of co-sponsor's income will need to add up to being 125% over the poverty line?


Also, I'm having some trouble finding the 2009 Poverty Line list. Has it not been published it yet?

Thanks!!~Jen(USC)
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-08 13:59:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresis attorney needed?
I think he asked "Do the people here on VJ feel it wise to retain a immigration attorney or service for this process?" I think it was pretty general.

if he would have asked " do you think I shoudl hire an attorney for this process" then it would be a different story. People are giving only their opinion here, it is up to each of us decide what to do.


QUOTE (LaL @ Feb 2 2009, 11:52 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
No one should be telling anyone they shouldn't retain an attorney. Its entirely personal and based on the nuances of their own case. None of which can be ascertained by a few lines in an opening post.


GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-02 23:10:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresis attorney needed?
you can do it without a lawyer - I think VJ makes this process easier, and you will get to meet wonderful people here who will help you and guide you along the process. I have heard that laywers sometimes are not that helpful and I even heard someone calling his lawyer an a$$hole, lol, so don't worry about it.



QUOTE (johndecka @ Feb 2 2009, 11:22 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (pwk86 @ Feb 2 2009, 10:20 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I plan to start the k1 visa process within the next 3 months after i return from the philippine to meet requirment for having met in person in the last to year (btw this will be our 3rd meeting). Do the people here on VJ feel it wise to retain a immigration attorney or service for this process?


DO It Yourself


GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-02 22:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNew 2009 guidlines !!!!!!
QUOTE (bissell_07 @ Feb 16 2009, 09:09 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Wow,You guys are really missing the point."This is ############"This is Refering to his own situation being fraustrated at himself no one else not the system Just his own personal situation.Then he ask "Any Advice?"Hes looking for a way to fix his situation.Hes not throwing it out saying its the systems fault.As already said theres two simple solutions to this situation.Get a part time job to supplement your income.Increase your savings to at least 3 times to what you are short.That would be around $940.


I can most definitely relate. I'm just starting out saving money and the full time job I have now is one of my first jobs. I also have a second job, but I don't know what part that plays since 1) I also earn tips (I'm not sure what effect that has) and 2) I'm barely getting in very many hours there because it's so empty because I guess one of the first things people in a not-so-great economy cut out is going out to eat.

So, let me just say: I feel your pain, OP!

I'm also not faulting the system. I understand that those rules are in place for a reason and though it may be difficult for me and my situation, I know our lives together in the beginning will probably be just as difficult.

So yeah, it's not the ideal way of starting your life with the one you love. Sometimes you just gotta vent!

Edited by GJen, 16 February 2009 - 11:02 PM.

GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-16 22:57:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNew 2009 guidlines !!!!!!
QUOTE (uscandual @ Feb 15 2009, 09:34 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Regarding the minor flamefest previously in this thread - I think that most people will be quite happy to help if you are asking for information. What I objected to (and apparently others as well) was the sends of entitlement that seemed to come from one of your earlier posts. I can understand that you may feel frustrated and angry if you are missing by inches the income threshold. That's legitimate. But you can't blame the system for that. The system is what it is - there are many other frustrating things you are about to discover about it as well. In the case of the income limits, I for one think they are justified. The bar is not set very high, and the system gives several 'easy outs' for those who can't quite make the bar: use assets rather than income, or get a co-sponsor. If none of these is feasible, I would suggest wait until you can put a support package together before filing. It means waiting a bit longer, but many of us are forced to wait months and years for all kinds of reasons not just due to support- we wait for our divorces to go through, for adjudication at CSC/VSC (some arbitrarily longer than others for no rhyme or reason), for Administrative Processing at various stages at USCIS, NVC or consulate (again often for no rhyme or reason), and we wait for factors unrelated to the system (our partners' jobs or education to complete, kids to go off to school, etc.). You will find a lot of sympathy and understanding if you approach us in the knowledge that we, too, are waiting with this drawn-out process. But I, for one, have little sympathy for those who indicate an attitude of wanting instant gratification for their case. I'm not saying that's you - I just felt I caught a whiff of that in your post with the ###### characters.

Peace, and good luck.


I can understand wanting instant gratification. Especially those that are in long distance relationships whose fiances never had the luxury of being granted a tourist visa to even visit the United States. I also realize there is a reason for making a certain amount of money so that you don't become a public burden. But I, for one, would be lost without this site. And I was completely lost before I(well, my fiance!) found it- it only takes a couple of times being on the phone for 15 minutes listening to automated messages and never having your questions answered, let alone heard by human ears to make one yearn for instant gratification.
~Jen (USC)
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-15 23:03:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNew 2009 guidlines !!!!!!
QUOTE (rebeccajo @ Feb 15 2009, 01:21 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Depends on where you live.



Well yeah. But I'm okay with just having the minimum as long as I have him. We can shop clearances and make the dollar store our second home.

"And even though we ain't got money, I'm so in love with ya honey,
And everything will bring a chain of love.
And in the morning when I rise, you bring a tear of joy to my eyes,
And tell me everything is gonna be alright. "
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-15 13:32:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNew 2009 guidlines !!!!!!
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Feb 15 2009, 10:49 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
And while I am on my soap box...let me tell you something, the only thing ##### about these qualificaion numbers is that if you think you can really support a wife or family on these numbers, you are in for a big surprise. I earn MANY MANY times the amount needed for my family of 4 and we certainly are not "affluent". We have a budget and follow it closely. If you make 4-5 times the minimum it will not be enough for a comfortable life. You know you have to fork out another $1010 when she arrives, yes? And you know after you do this you have to meet the guidelines again with the I-864 form, yes? And you know there are there are many more expenses yet to come, yes? Maybe you have no clue what happens when a woman moves halfway 'round the world to be with you. My wife came with clothes and nothing else. What can they bring? Her electrical appliances wouldn't work here (except her computer) so we spent nearly $1000 the first two days she was here just to replace all the things she couldn't bring. Hey, blow dryers and irons and etc. etc adds up quick, and you think a bachelor has the stuff a woman needs? Dreamer.


Well maybe not a family, but wouldn't the minimum be enough to support("support", not to live any kind of lavish lifestyle) two people at least until the AOS was filed that would permit both the petitioner and beneficiary to work?
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-15 13:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhat does "touched" mean?
QUOTE (SoInLove16 @ Feb 18 2009, 06:42 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
When you check your case online (provided you registered) the modified date has been changed.


Just out of curiousity! Did VJers give it that name or is that a USCIS technical term?
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-18 20:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhat other forums do you visit here on VJ other than the K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures General Discussion?
QUOTE (amberdima @ Feb 19 2009, 09:01 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (jasman0717 @ Feb 19 2009, 08:01 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Off topic good.gif


what he means is that he frequently looks at the 'off topic' forum. ME TOO! good.gif


Oops! whistling.gif I thought he was being a smart alec. blush.gif

QUOTE (jasman0717 @ Feb 19 2009, 08:01 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Off topic good.gif


Sorry! I misunderstood you! innocent.gif
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-19 21:27:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhat other forums do you visit here on VJ other than the K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures General Discussion?
QUOTE (jasman0717 @ Feb 19 2009, 08:01 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Off topic good.gif


Hm. I'm trying to find out if people that view this forum ever look at any other forum. If I post it an off topic forum and they only view the K1 forum, how would they ever see it? blink.gif
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-19 20:07:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhat other forums do you visit here on VJ other than the K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures General Discussion?
I ask because my boyfriend and I are trying to gather information to petition a K1 Fiance Visa. Right now the majority of my questions relate to the affidavit of support and meeting the minimum requirements.

From there they get moved to the US Embassy and Consulate General Discussion.

I understand why. I just feel like my questions don't get enough traffic from the very people that may able to provide me with useful information.

So this is just a little experiment!

Edited by GJen, 19 February 2009 - 07:27 PM.

GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-19 19:26:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBrainstorming on ways to meet the minimum requirements to petition for fiance visa
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Feb 20 2009, 08:19 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
As far as whether you tell your parents, well I guess that is a personal thing, but you are embarking on some, really, pretty grown up things here, getting married and filing visa petitions. I mean this ain't kid stuff. It's really big league grown up stuff. But you have time and I am not going to concern myself with that issue. I can only say I would never have felt I couldn't tell my parents and I know for sure my kids would tell me. But I think I responded to this earlier and maybe I am not able to understand that situation. I know my parents helped me as a young man and we are helping our children now...call me crazy.


Telling my parents is a whole 'nother issue! I just want to assure myself I can do this without their help, just in case they aren't too fond of the idea upon hearing it.

QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Feb 20 2009, 08:19 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I did not feel I was being condescending. I felt you were somewhat defeatist.


Well it's safe to say I did feel defeated. Like everything was out of reach and that a co-sponsor was the only way. (We're still gonna keep our eyes open for one and definitely call the consular to make sure they accept this, just in case)


QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Feb 20 2009, 08:19 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
At any rate, everyone has job changes, promotions, raises, pennies from heaven, anything can change what one's income is for the year and it is neigh on impossible for anyone to tell you in February what they will make at the end of the year when the shoe drops on December 31, but you can get a pretty good idea at any time, and you should be able to support a reasonable calculation. I would never suggest that you make a false statement, it isn't necessary. If you haven't filed the petition yet, you are probably 6-8 months from needing to fill out the I-134. Nothing wrong with considering it now, but by September you will have a pretty good idea of what you will make for the year. I may just be an optimist (I have been called worse, heck, I have been called worse already today) but if I needed only to make up $3,300 between now and September, I would be sleeping pretty good and worrying about other things. I mean I could make more than that on tips delivering pizza. So it is not insurmountable by any means.


You're right. There's always a chance I could get a raise after my yearly review. I'll make sure to be on my best behavior at work! You helped me to look more at the little things instead of the big picture which was overwhelming me to say the least. Now I know I'll just need to work 11 hours at minumum wage in addition to my full time job and that would actually get me little over the minimum requirements. Not only that, but of course working those extra hours will help increase my savings expontentially! Which is great since it will be $1 to $3! So... YAY! kicking.gif

You're right! It's not insurmountable! good.gif

Edited by GJen, 20 February 2009 - 10:15 AM.

GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-20 10:13:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBrainstorming on ways to meet the minimum requirements to petition for fiance visa
Gary & Alla and Pushbrk

Is it just me or are the two of you ganging up on me in a very condescending and demeaning manner?

You couldn't possibly understand the situation with my father and I'm so sorry for having to be explained the same thing to ten times in a row, everyone learns differently. I guess it just took that tenth time for it to finally make sense to me.

If this is "tough love", I suggest you draw the line before typing snide comments.
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-19 23:33:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBrainstorming on ways to meet the minimum requirements to petition for fiance visa
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Feb 19 2009, 10:49 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
There is no way to "brainstorm" around the requirements but I am, really, trying to give you ways to COMPLY with the requirements.

In case you glanced over the title of this thread too quickly, I was brainstorming on ways to meet the requirements, not ways around them.

QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Feb 19 2009, 10:49 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
If you will insist there is no way to calculate your income or no way to support it with documents, you will not qualify to sponsor your fiance.

I wasn't insisting there wasn't a way, I was asking because I wasn't able to see the "way" myself because, well, I was thinking of current annual income as me having to guess at what I'll make this year instead of using records (I wasn't thinking that would be past income not current) So I guess that's what was throwing me off. I do have supporting documents.

I guess I was thinking too hard. Your last post made perfect sense to me. I guess I'm just a backwards thinker.


GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-19 23:22:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBrainstorming on ways to meet the minimum requirements to petition for fiance visa
Are any of those "work from home" things legit? Or are they just scams?

Could I pay someone to be my co-sponsor?

Or get a loan and deposit that into savings and then make small payments to pay it off?



QUOTE (pushbrk @ Feb 19 2009, 08:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Sounds like you know Z = a number less than it needs to equal. What else do you need to know in order to understand you do not currently qualify to sponsor your fiance?


I understand I do not currently qualify to sponsor my fiance. What I'm trying to find out is what more I'll need to do in addition to my two current jobs in order to qualify to sponsor my fiance(i.e. how much in savings)- but since I have no clue what z is... I can't adequately subtract that from the number it needs to equal.

Edited by GJen, 19 February 2009 - 09:23 PM.

GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-19 21:21:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBrainstorming on ways to meet the minimum requirements to petition for fiance visa
QUOTE (belinda63 @ Feb 19 2009, 08:49 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
One piece of advice, since I am a full time waitress and got his K-1 approved. The law states you must report 100% of ur tips whistling.gif
At my job we actually enter when we clock out the amount of tips we made for that shift. Make sure you report 100% and keep a record of it, in my case it is reported as income on my W-2. If you don't report the tips directly to your company, which I can't think of anyone who wouldn't, make sure you keep a tip diary and report all your tips on your tax return.

I admire you for working two jobs and good luck.


Wow... really? Without a co-sponsor? What restaurant do you work at and are they hiring?? lol
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-19 21:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBrainstorming on ways to meet the minimum requirements to petition for fiance visa
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Feb 19 2009, 07:36 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Here endeth the math lesson


I must not be explaining myself very clearly. While it may be as simple as a math equation, I can't possibly solve it because there are too many variables(see X and Y).

Part Time Job
2.35(hourly wage)
X (hours I will work in one year) [unknown until the week after I finish working them]
Y (tips earned) [unknown until the very moment I receive them, one table at a time]

Full Time Job
15,000 (roughly what I earn in a year)

Therefore:

15,000 + 2.35(X)+Y=Z

I can't solve for Z because I don't find out X or Y until after the year has passed! So how on Earth can I possibly know the sum of my CURRENT income? wacko.gif
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-19 20:04:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBrainstorming on ways to meet the minimum requirements to petition for fiance visa
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Feb 18 2009, 10:47 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
They do not "estimate" anything, ever. First, you state your CURRENT ANNUAL income and its source.


That's just the thing! I don't know my total current annual income. I know my full time is a little over $15,000--- with my part time job, I haven't a clue! (My tips are reported and I will pay taxes on them) but I have no way of predicting 1) how much I'll make in tips for this year or 2) the hours I'll be work [since it's been so slow... some weeks I barely get 4 hours in]

Edited by GJen, 19 February 2009 - 07:02 PM.

GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-19 19:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBrainstorming on ways to meet the minimum requirements to petition for fiance visa
QUOTE (rebeccajo @ Feb 18 2009, 09:06 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
What did you decide about your folks and the engagement news?


Well, if we have no other choice, I guess we'd have to tell them. I don't except them to grab the pen and start signing on the dotted line once we do though. I can only possibly see them doing that if I explained to them we were trying to bring him here, but we don't meet the requirements, so I guess I'll be moving to Venezuela. Who knows, even then my dad may turn into a mixture of mad.gif and devil.gif and tell me it was nice to know me and to have a fun time in my "fantasy world" running into the sunset with my boyfriend.
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-18 21:13:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBrainstorming on ways to meet the minimum requirements to petition for fiance visa
QUOTE (rebeccajo @ Feb 18 2009, 08:58 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
You're a young woman and many people like yourself find a co-sponsor is required. It's purely a function of not having been out in the workforce long enough yet.

I'd suggest you read up on whether or not your consulate has a 'problem' with co-sponsors. If they don't have a problem with it, you'll save yourself worrying about how to wrangle your earnings.


Yeah... then I'll just have to worry about finding a co-sponsor.
*sigh*
Sadly, that seems equally as difficult to obtain.
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-18 21:05:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBrainstorming on ways to meet the minimum requirements to petition for fiance visa
QUOTE (rebeccajo @ Feb 18 2009, 08:45 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
They won't be able too.

They don't look at projected earnings. They look at past documentation.

This is why self employed individuals are usually asked to show three years of tax returns rather than one. Averaged past earnings are at least a marginalized predictor of future earnings.


Uh oh.... so I should probably wait and apply next year then after filing taxes for 2009?

For 2008 I'll only have my last job (4 months making $6.15 an hour for 40 hours a week) and then my current part time job for (4 months of $2.15 per hour + tips + who knows how many hours) and then my current full time job ($8.00 an hour 40 hours a week for 2 months)

=/

GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-18 20:53:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBrainstorming on ways to meet the minimum requirements to petition for fiance visa
QUOTE (pushbrk @ Feb 18 2009, 08:33 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (GJen @ Feb 18 2009, 05:29 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (pushbrk @ Feb 18 2009, 08:20 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
For tips, it depends on whether the tips are cash in hand or included with a paycheck. Cash in-hand tips are reported on your income tax return, next year or quarterly if you wish. Until you can show you reported tips to the IRS, you would have a hard time documenting them on an affidavit of support. Self-employed works the same way. You report earnings quarterly by filing with the IRS. Anybody can use assets, not just self-employed people. On the I-134, you state only income that can be documented.


I see what you're saying. My question is do they predict my yearly salary(and therefore if I meet the minimum requirements) based on the taxes I filed from the last year? Because with my full time job, it's easy to foresee the amount of money I'll have made at the end of the year. With my part time job as a waitress, everything depends on tips.


I thought I made that clear in my answer by telling you the circumstances under which tips could be considered. You may assume that under any other circumstances, they will not be considered. What part of that is confusing you?


I understand that the tips would have to be reported to the IRS and documented in order to count.

What I don't get is that I haven't been working both jobs for a year yet to know how much I will make with the two.
1) My full time job I started in Novemeber of 2008
2) My part time job I started in August of 2008

So how will USCIS know?

For example, I make about $15,000 yearly at my part time job.
My part time job depends on tips and how many hours I work.
Because this information is unknown and I don't have a year's worth of documentation... how will they be able to determine if I meet 125% of the poverty line?


GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-18 20:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBrainstorming on ways to meet the minimum requirements to petition for fiance visa
QUOTE (pushbrk @ Feb 18 2009, 08:20 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
For tips, it depends on whether the tips are cash in hand or included with a paycheck. Cash in-hand tips are reported on your income tax return, next year or quarterly if you wish. Until you can show you reported tips to the IRS, you would have a hard time documenting them on an affidavit of support. Self-employed works the same way. You report earnings quarterly by filing with the IRS. Anybody can use assets, not just self-employed people. On the I-134, you state only income that can be documented.


I see what you're saying. My question is do they predict my yearly salary(and therefore if I meet the minimum requirements) based on the taxes I filed from the last year? Because with my full time job, it's easy to foresee the amount of money I'll have made at the end of the year. With my part time job as a waitress, everything depends on tips.
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-18 20:29:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBrainstorming on ways to meet the minimum requirements to petition for fiance visa
1) I currently have a second job as a waitress where I earn money in tips in addition to the hourly wage. I'm trying to find out how many hours I would need to work in addition to my full time job, but I'm not sure how that works when it comes to tips.
----How do I go about filling out the I-134 when tips are involved?

2)I would eventually like to have my own my own jewelry store once I get in to metalworking. At the moment I'm just making jewelry from beads and wire. I was thinking of taking some of my things around to different stores in the area to see if they may be interested and if they are, maybe I could go ahead and get my busines started by doing consignment until I become more skilled in the area of metalworking.
----I had read before if you were self-employed, you use your assets. Problem is, I don't own a house or car, so is there anyway I could just show my earnings?

Thanks so much and feel free to leave any suggestions! We're still keeping our eyes open for co-sponsors, but I want to have a back up just in case.

smile.gif

Edited by GJen, 18 February 2009 - 08:15 PM.

GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-18 20:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWould being in the middle of the K1 process help or hurt our chances of being granted a Tourist Visa?
QUOTE (Old Dominion @ Feb 21 2009, 09:38 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Maybe your folks would travel to Venezuela with you to help them resolve their misgivings and agree to co-sponsor?


That woud be really nice. The only thing I worry about it my mom has arthritis and the parts of Venezuela we'd be in doesn't have the best terrain. Not only that, but it woud be pretty expensive! My flight would have been over $1,000 if my dad hadnt so generously let me use his sky miles (The ticket cost me $64.12)

Maybe I could see about them going over there to visit sometime.. I'll have to mention it!
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-21 10:24:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWould being in the middle of the K1 process help or hurt our chances of being granted a Tourist Visa?
QUOTE (Anh map @ Feb 21 2009, 09:33 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Jen, If G can get a tourist visa that's good for you two on a number of fronts (parents, where to live, etc.) but don't divert your focus from your number one "hurdle" of income/sponsorship.

In one of the other threads that got off course someone mentioned that getting a different, higher wage, full time job would help to get you over threshold. Have you explored that option? That might also help you with your folks as well.

Keep focused on the main issues, don't spend a lot of time looking for ways around the financial part. Use that time instead to work at a higher paying job that will give you the documented income needed.


Good? If he got the Tourist Visa.. that would be fantastic!! And we tried it once before with no luck.. judging by our past experience, I doubt it would go any differently the second time around.

I am looking int supplementing my income. I'm just a little weary of going ahead and starting the process (sending in the I-129F packet) because I don't have anything right this minute. I understand that I wouldn't need the I-134 until maybe 6 or 8 months down the line, but with the economy the way it is, there are what? 3 people looking for a job for every 1 position that's available?
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-21 10:22:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWould being in the middle of the K1 process help or hurt our chances of being granted a Tourist Visa?
QUOTE (DavChels @ Feb 20 2009, 11:29 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I really don't think it's going to help you in my opinion, it might hurt or make no difference at all. Being granted a tourist visa is all about how much he can prove his ties to Venezuela in order to have to return.

Does he have his own place? (lease/mortgage papers)
Does he have a steady job? (letter from boss stating expected return to work date)
I know ya'll are pretty young, so is he in school? (enrollment papers for new semester, etc.)

He had all of that and documents to support it, they never even asked for documents. I'm guessing he was denied more because he was from Latin America more than actually not having enough ties to his country.

I guess it's a lost cause whether we're in the middle of filing or not.

Thanks for the reply!
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-20 22:39:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWould being in the middle of the K1 process help or hurt our chances of being granted a Tourist Visa?
Background:
  • My boyfriend is from Venezuela. He tried for the Tourist Visa once before and was denied on January 8th of this year.
  • He has never been to the U.S. and I would really love for him to meet my parents and visit my country.
  • If he were to be granted the Tourist Visa, we would do just that, have him come for a visit, show him around my city and have him get to know my parents, then he would return to Venezuela and await his K1 interview.
  • I've read other people questioning this and many of the responses said it all comes down to the intent.
  • We do intend to get married, which is why we'll be in the middle of filing for the K1 Visa(We have to wait 6 months to apply for the Tourist Visa again)- but obviously we wouldn't get married during the time he would be here on a Tourist Visa.


Would being in the middle of the K1 process help or hurt our chances of being granted a Tourist Visa?
(Our intentions are not to marry on the Tourist Visa, strictly a visit!)

Edited by GJen, 20 February 2009 - 10:10 PM.

GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-20 22:06:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI129f and the I-134
QUOTE (jasman0717 @ Jan 31 2009, 11:25 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Touched means the date you case was last accessed changed. You see this when you sign up for accessing your case status online.


Quick Q! Do you have to do anything special to sign up? Is there a fee?
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-01 23:33:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresIs it possible to keep the K-1 process a secret from my parents while I'm living with them?
QUOTE (Anh map @ Feb 2 2009, 08:40 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I've been reading along and wish Jen and G the best of luck in this proccess. I do have some questions. The questions may seem blunt, but are not meant to be mean. My K1 experience is with a high fraud consulate. I don't know what the climate is like for Venezuela. I certainly hope it's not like Vietnam. smile.gif I any case be sure to read everything about his country and K1 visas here on VJ.

I agree with the PO Box advice. You can get all your info there.

You are applying for a fiance visa which requires you to be married within 90 days. Be prepared (G) to tell your "love story" and explain every aspect of your relationship. The consular officer is the one that has to believe the merits of the story, not any of us here on VJ. Be sure that your evidence and story is complete and convincing.

Jen, have you only visited G once? Why only the one visit? I understand he can't get a tourist visa for here. But it will be 2 years since you have been in the same phyiscal space if your timeline is accurate. That's a long time for folks that are planning to be married to not be able to talk face to face.
Yes. Money would be the reason I've only visited once. Believe me, I, more than anyone, know it's been a long time. I'm going to visit again in April, though. kicking.gif

Do you (Jen) meet the income requirements (125% of poverty level = approx. $18,250 for 2009) or have a co-sponsor? This is a non-negotiable for USCIS.
I do not. We're looking for a sponsor. See, going to my parents asking them to sponsor us would be even more reason for them to say we shouldn't get married-- that even the government doesn't think we're ready for marriage!

When G arrives where will you two be living? You are at your folks house now but will G be welcome? Or will he / you two be living elsewhere? There are a lot of logistics to becoming a married couple. Let alone getting G settled in a new country. The time will fly by.
We've been looking at apartments. There are a lot of logistics just to getting out on your own. This way I'll have someone to experience that with.

How do you feel that your parents (seems like it is more dad) will react to G being there with you and being told "he's here and we will be getting married in xx days?"
I can't say how they'd react. The only alternative would be to announce our engagement without them ever having met, which I always considered a pretty crucial part of adding someone to the family. Would they react any better to that? I honestly don't know.


How will YOU react to their potential continued concerns about your welfare? The K1 visa requires you to be married within 90 days or he must return home. So the time for "getting used to the idea" is limited. A simple Justice of the Peace legal wedding is easy to do and allows you to plan a larger public gathering of family and friends.
They know we eventually plan on getting married. For one, I've told them before. Two, I'll be 23 this year, do they think I'll be living at home forever? Does it make it worse for me to move out if it means me moving in with a loving husband I want to share the rest of my life with? We plan on having a civil wedding within the 90 days and maybe renewing our vows or having a nice little anniversary get-together later on down the road.

Best wishes on the journey. Remember to keep the big picture (getting G to the US and being married) in mind as you encounter any rough spots along the way. It's worth all the work and anxiety.

Thanks Roger! My answers are pretty blunt, too! I just... I've gone around in circles in my head and well, there's no easy way.


GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-02 21:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresIs it possible to keep the K-1 process a secret from my parents while I'm living with them?
QUOTE (Gary and Alla)
I have a hard time understanding the difficulty in telling family


Imagine that you're an architect and think you have a flawless plan. Imagine you are such a dedicated architect that in the event there were flaws you would devote your entire being to rebuilding it until it stood strong and even after it stood strong.

Now imagine everytime you built it up, and showed it to the person you got the building blocks from, they knocked it down. Not broke a window or cracked a brick, but knocked it to the ground.

Sooner or later, you'd realize you just shouldn't show it to them, right?

Edited by GJen, 02 February 2009 - 09:32 PM.

GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-02 21:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresIs it possible to keep the K-1 process a secret from my parents while I'm living with them?
QUOTE (Yader&Sarah @ Feb 2 2009, 06:32 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Jen,

I was wondering if you are able to successfully talk about Gabriel with your parents. ie. tell a funny story about something he did or said, or mention when something reminds you of him and why, things like that?

Because, my parents have still not met my fiance, even though we have been engaged more a year and a half. They have never been able to make it to visit and he was also denied a tourist visa. But even before we got engaged, I would start incorporating Yader into some of my conversations with my parents and loved ones. Just a little bit at first, and I got uncomfortable looks, and awkward silence, etc.etc. But I kept at it, and little by little, the awkward silences were shorter and the uncomfortable looks were at least less obvious wink.gif

Knowing that you've been together 3 years, I'm sure you've talked about Gabriel before with your family, but I guess my advice would be, keep doing it. no matter how painful it is. After a year and a half, I can finally have a legitimate conversation about Yader with my mom and she feels like she knows him just a little bit.

on the other hand, there will be people you never convince, and it will always be sad. Just yesterday, my mom mentioned that my great aunt and uncle (who are like grandparents to me) refused to talk about yader or the entire situation (I was completely unaware they were so upset), and I cried for an hour.

But I think that when it's all said and done, no matter how you go about it, secret or no, my mom had the best advice (and she was a major sketic at first!/still is actually....). she said, "you've got to stop trying to convince people, the only way they will come around is by seeing you two love eachother. It may take a year, it may take 5, and it may never happen, but pour your energy into a good relationship, and they'll see that, no matter how long it takes to admit it."

good luck!


My turn!! smile.gif This is Jen (USC)... yeah, our communication has definitely gotten a lot better. Before they refused to refer to Gabriel as my boyfriend... he was my "friend". Now I can talk to them about whatever and they actually keep in contact with him as well.

The fact that even though I told my dad I wasn't planning on getting married when I go to visit Gabriel in April and he said "It wouldn't surprise me" makes me feel very uneasy about discussing anything with him. After he said that I told him "Well it should because I just told you it's not going to happen." and he just kind of brushed it off. It's just.... it's hard.

And I'm not looking at this as only "How can I make this work for me?" I'm trying to weigh all my options and imagine each scenario. Like G said, it's a very delicate situation! *sigh*
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-02 18:32:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresIs it possible to keep the K-1 process a secret from my parents while I'm living with them?
Hello

This is Gabriel. Thank you so much for posting. I would say I feel related to your situation. She talked to her parents about me a long time ago, and she would also get an attitude from her parents and they wouldn't take us seriously, but after a while they would just talk along with her about me, and after she came for the first time to Venezuela, it was pretty normal for her to mention me and show them pictures of us together, etc. I even talk to her mom by mail and a few times on the phone, and I have emailed her dad a few times, too, I'm also in touch with one of her aunts from her mom's side of the family. so I would dare to say that they actually know a lot about me, BUT as soon as Jen mentions anything about commitment, marriage or even coming down here they freak out, because they don't know me, and also because they think that the fact that we are miles away means that we don't know each other enough, So That's why I think they would feel better if we both tell them and if we have a face to face talk, y'know?, I would like to be there and tell her parents how much I love their daughter and that I want to spend the rest of my life with her, I want them to know me and show them that I'm someone they can trust and that they have nothing to worry about.

I know Jen would go ahead and tell them right now, but we think we got an idea of how it might turns out, her dad usually just tell her, she is living in a fantasy world and that this is never gonna happen, and of course, she breaks down, so I don't want her to be alone, because if he does tell those things to her and she breaks down, I want to be there and talk for her, I don't want her to feel alone in this and I don't want them to see her alone in this! I hope I'm making sense.

I really like the advice from your mom smile.gif. Anyway I'll go now, I bet Jen has more to add here so she might post something later, I'm not that good with words haha
Thank you so much, and good luck with the interview again wink.gif


QUOTE (Yader&Sarah @ Feb 2 2009, 06:32 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Jen,

I was wondering if you are able to successfully talk about Gabriel with your parents. ie. tell a funny story about something he did or said, or mention when something reminds you of him and why, things like that?

Because, my parents have still not met my fiance, even though we have been engaged more a year and a half. They have never been able to make it to visit and he was also denied a tourist visa. But even before we got engaged, I would start incorporating Yader into some of my conversations with my parents and loved ones. Just a little bit at first, and I got uncomfortable looks, and awkward silence, etc.etc. But I kept at it, and little by little, the awkward silences were shorter and the uncomfortable looks were at least less obvious wink.gif

Knowing that you've been together 3 years, I'm sure you've talked about Gabriel before with your family, but I guess my advice would be, keep doing it. no matter how painful it is. After a year and a half, I can finally have a legitimate conversation about Yader with my mom and she feels like she knows him just a little bit.

on the other hand, there will be people you never convince, and it will always be sad. Just yesterday, my mom mentioned that my great aunt and uncle (who are like grandparents to me) refused to talk about yader or the entire situation (I was completely unaware they were so upset), and I cried for an hour.

But I think that when it's all said and done, no matter how you go about it, secret or no, my mom had the best advice (and she was a major sketic at first!/still is actually....). she said, "you've got to stop trying to convince people, the only way they will come around is by seeing you two love eachother. It may take a year, it may take 5, and it may never happen, but pour your energy into a good relationship, and they'll see that, no matter how long it takes to admit it."

good luck!


GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-02 09:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresIs it possible to keep the K-1 process a secret from my parents while I'm living with them?
hi, this is Gabriel (beneficiary) This is not about being old enough to tell her parents, this is just a delicate situation we're in, if her parents were all open about this it would be easier, of couse we could just tell them and if they get upset, whatever we'll just go ahead and file because we are old enough to do it ourselves. but that's not what we want, at least not the way we want it to happen, so we're just thinking of when may be the right time to tell them.

Being mature/old enough is not only about face everything right away, but also thinking things over and find the right time to do it and how to do it.

if you read every post you might get an idea of our situation and maybe understand why my fiance is worrying and hesitating to tell them now.


QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Feb 2 2009, 10:07 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (GJen @ Jan 31 2009, 01:55 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
What can I(Jen, USC) do to make sure nothing would be sent to my current address so as not to risk them finding out before I tell them? whistling.gif



Tell them today. Then nothing will be sent before you tell them.

Excuse, I may not understand. You are old enough to get married, file for a K-1 visa (and all that implies) but you cannot tell your parents?


GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-02 09:25:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresIs it possible to keep the K-1 process a secret from my parents while I'm living with them?
QUOTE (TBoneTX @ Feb 2 2009, 01:21 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
GJen,

It's good that you're thinking about this, and that you're willing to consider advice that is sincerely offered. I'm particularly impressed with the wise thoughts from Brad.

As a long-time son (and an only child), I can attest that parents -- mothers in particular -- will ALWAYS view even their adult children as their "babies." The psychology is far too intricate to delve deeply into, but here's a little. Our parents want the best for us, and since they remember our early years as an infant, toddler, child, and teenager, they acutely remember the guidance that they had to provide in order to be good parents and for us to become mature, self-sufficient, sensible young adults. They were completely responsible for protecting and nurturing their "babies." They remember every physical and emotional pain that we ever experienced... and when WE hurt, THEY hurt. This is part of the nature of being a good and caring parent, and it's deeply ingrained. I don't know your parents, of course, but I'd wager that this is their frame of reference.

Perhaps ruminating on this will help you develop an approach to speaking with them. If I'm right, they might resist at first, fearing the reasons of above, but they should eventually come around, and they may even become your strongest allies. INCLUDE them, because -- loving you as they do -- being shut out of your life will cut them to their core.


Well I've tried to include them. It's somewhat hard when I can't bring the boyfriend over to the house for dinner to meet the parents. If G could move here and then we could date and they could meet, that would be great. The reality is very different. (We tried and were denied the Tourist Visa) Seeing as how there's no "Meet The Parents Visa", the Fiance Visa is the only option we have that would allow us to live a normal life. (Normal meaning not having to go years without seeing each other.)

It all comes down to that question I asked Brad and Vika: As a parent, would you rather hear 6 or 12 months out that your daughter is formally engaged to a man you've never met or meet him and soon after have both your daughter and her fiance-to-be announce it together followed by detailed plans?

Either way, it's probably not what they envisioned for their daughter. In fact, it's nothing like what I envisioned for myself. Life doesn't always work out as you plan- and sometimes that's a good thing. In this case, it's a great thing. Of course it's not all hearts and roses (the whole K1 process doesn't seem to be a walk in the park), but this is the one thing I'm so certain about. I know my parents will love him when they meet him. I have a feeling everything's going to work out. smile.gif
GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-02 00:44:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresIs it possible to keep the K-1 process a secret from my parents while I'm living with them?
QUOTE
Jen and Gabriel,

After reading this post, I wanted to weigh in again briefly. First, you seem very articulate and persuasive in describing your relationship, and very much in love. I think we all wish you the best. I have to say that I am absolutely not judging you, and your life is yours to do as you please. All I wanted to do was share a parental perspective with you. Although you are not bound to explain yourself to anybody, you will be happy later on if you do. I was making reference earlier to what your parents (Jen) might think and feel, rather than how tough it is for you to tell them. If you walk in their shoes for a minute, and try to see yourselves through their eyes - you may understand how your comments above would scare them to death - persuasive as they may be. Trust me on this, your struggle and tears will be well spent invested in communicating with them now. Again, the best of luck to you.


Yeah, I can see what you mean. Ideally, that's the way I wanted it to happen. Which is why I asked Gabriel (even though he assured me there was almost no chance) to try for the Tourist Visa. And, like he predicted, January 8th he was denied. That pretty much threw a wrench in our plans because what I wanted so much was for them to meet him.

As a parent, would you rather hear 6 or 12 months out that your daughter is formally engaged to a man you've never met or meet him and soon after have both your daughter and her fiance-to-be announce it together followed by detailed plans?

[I feel like I'm sounding really defensive huh.gif , I'm not meaning to, I just genuinely want to know what you would rather experience as a parent. helpsmilie.gif Here's my thing- they'll either 1) Feel left out because I'm committing myself to someone they've never even met before and haven't given the chance to give me their stamp of approval or 2) Feel left out in the way that after hearing our plans know that we have been planning it for a while (if this is the case though, I still think they'd feel some pride and look at us a a mature, realistic couple]
Thanks for the feedback good.gif

GJenMaleVenezuela2009-02-01 23:21:00