ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresno engagement ring: problem at interview?

How sweet! My fiance gave me my ring and was upset he couldn't afford to buy me one at Tiffany's just yet, but he said this was my engagement ring for now and a promise of a Tiffany's ring later. :D
I have to say though, my ring means so much to me I wouldn't care if it came from Tiffany's or not.
Good luck!


Me too!
My husband has plans for a 'ring that will last'...but my 'for now' ring will always be so special to me :)

How lovely to hear you feel the same way

:)

OP-
I was asked at my K1 interview in London if I had an engagement ring...but it was in an informal, chatty way and part of a conversation...my interviewer told me that my eye's lit up when I talked about my fiance and good luck and go get married...I imagine that you will be fine...as has been said, not every engaged person has an engagement ring.

Good luck!
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-05-08 20:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPlaying the waiting game now....

Hi, it took us 77 days to get approved :D

I do not know what we did different from everybody else but we followed to guides from VJ to the letter.

Goodluck and succes with your journey.



Our approval time was similarly short. I do not think we necessarily did anything different to anyone else. Lots of people file a 'correct' package (no RFEs) and still have along wait for approval. I think it is a combination of having a 'simple' case (with us) (no previous filings, no children involved,no previous marriages, sufficient proof of meeting and relationship, no 'red flags' etc), using the CSC as the waiting times are shorter at the moment, and luck of the draw! :)

Congratulations on being approved so quickly though! With us, the AOS was also very quick to be approved,I hope it is the same for you.

OP-
As another poster said...it's a good idea to have your fiancee get things organised while you wait. Good luck!

Edited by Helen Louise Pile, 09 May 2011 - 07:42 AM.

Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-05-09 07:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAGE BARRIER

Both my fiancee and I are in our twilight years and have know each other since he first visited the USA on business in 1975. I was also a very good friend of his wife who passed away 3 yrs ago. Twelve months ago we decided that we would like to spend the rest of our lives together and 6 1/2 months ago submitted our I.129F form. Two weeks ago we received a RFE as I had omitted to send a copy of his wife's death certificate and we are still waiting. My question is does anyone think that our ages are causing this delay and do the USCIS have an age barrier. We are both financially sound, I still work and although he is retired he receives both private pensions and a British state pension. Time means a lot to us and at the end of this month we would have been waiting 7 months. Any comments would be appreciated


I would hope not.

Have you submitted a copy of his wife's death certificate? It can't progress unless you submit the RFE.

I hope someone else can give you better advice.
I just wanted to wish you well.
Helen
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-05-12 04:18:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresDo we really need a lawyer?

Hello guys and girls! Im glad i found this website!

On the 28th of april 2011 i got down on one knee before i went through the security gates at detroit airport and asked my darling to marry me before i headed back to london. She said yes :D which brings me to you guys!

We have looked at what we need to do with the k1 visa process and we are on a bit of a small budget this year. We was wondering do we REALLY need an attorney to file for a k-1 visa application? (fiancee visa) It would help me finacially this year if i diddent have to.

the only service i have found that i can afford is a guy called calvin nickerbocker from california. are any of you guys familiar with him?

any advice is greatly welcomed!

from billy and amie!


Hello!
Congratulations on your engagement and deciding to move to the States!!

As everyone else has said...unless there is something that would be a problem (overstays, deportation, criminal history, children and custody issues), there is no need to use a lawyer.

Just take some time to read over the guides and this section: http://www.visajourn...ontent/examples : was invaluable for us!

Make sure you become anally retentive for detail :) and you can get a dropbox file or similar to be able to share copies of scanned documents/letters/pictures etc that you need. (we found this worked when we were apart so we both had access to everything) When your fiancee files, she will only file photocopies of all evidence then you will take originals and affidavit of support to your interview in case they are needed.

My advice would be to browse around visa journey and educate yourselves in this process :) Expect a wait of 5 months for approval, though many people are approved before this and some have to wait longer. Once you receive notification of 'approval', you can go ahead and do things on your end. You will be notified of how to do this and there will be help here when you get to that stage. It seems daunting when you start but it was actually much easier than I imagined it would be. Take a look at current costs for K1 petition, K1 medical, K1 visa, AOS fee etc to make sure you budget for all that now rather than be surprised by it!

Good luck!!!
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-05-15 07:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresShould I go ahead and send my packet 3?

You need to find out where the NOA2 is because you need that for AOS. Its around 400$ to get a replacement NOA2.



NOA2 must not be required for AOS.

Though of course, submit it with AOS if you have it.
We did not submit ours. Just a written statement saying I had no record of receiving it. Our AOS was approved quickly with no problems whatsoever.

(Just in case the OP does not receive it and is worried)

Edited by Helen Louise Pile, 15 May 2011 - 08:18 PM.

Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-05-15 20:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSubmit fiance's birth certificate with I-129F?

we included also my birth certificate with our application, and we had no trouble with that or probably was better seeing the timeline for the k1....goodluck for your journey!

it's not required anyway.


We included it too and had a similarly short processing time.
Those things are probably not related though.
As someone else mentioned, it's not worth over loading your application. Just making sure it is concise and informative, all the forms are filled out precisely and your application covers all the requirements.

Good luck!
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-05-18 07:38:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresIs W2 necessary for interview?
You only need tax information if you are self employed.

Read the instructions here (see supporting evidence): http://www.uscis.gov.../i-134instr.pdf

I took the last tax return anyway, even though it is not required,just so I had it. Only the employer letter was asked for.

If you are self employed it doesn't say anything about W2's.

Goodluck! :)

Edited by Helen Louise Pile, 27 May 2011 - 09:10 AM.

Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-05-27 09:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBooking medical and interview dates

I'd say mail it (DS-2001 + cover letter)just as soon as you're ready (have all your documents in hand.)


Definitely! :) Mail them asap, get the ball rolling!

Good luck
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-05-28 18:47:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresA question about scheduling Interview dates (London)...
The embassy in London will schedule you an appointment once they receive the documents associated with packet 3. http://london.usembassy.gov/iv_15.html

Sending the forms to say you are ready for an interview then having to delay for a planned holiday would over complicate things. Why not just get all your documents ready then send the forms to the embassy to say you are ready when you get back?

Good luck!

Edited by Helen Louise Pile, 30 May 2011 - 08:12 AM.

Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-05-30 08:11:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresANNOYING...

for the past five months, three weeks and couple days, i have been very patient. but now it's relly gwtting annoying seeing ppl who filed after you getting thru. i'm happy for everybody but this is really depressing.



Keep strong. It will come.

Don't forget that everyones case in different so you can't judge the speed of other peoples cases. Some people have 'simpler' cases and these are probably easier to approve.

Good luck and I wish that your approval comes soon! :)
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-04-23 09:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPhone History ISSUES!! What do I do?

I NEED call history for the I-129F correct?


Incorrect.

You need proof of having met your fiance within the last 2 years.

What evidence do you have included in your packet?
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-05-28 10:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAnxiety Attack

So I was soo nervous in sending out the first step in the K1 visa, butttt I just did!!!!!!!!! oh my goodness.

just wanted to talk everyone that helped me along the way with the first step!!!

--

I have a question for the upcoming steps, which affidavit do I fill out, the i-134 or the i-864?.....I'm a bit confused by this. and the lady this morning seemed sooo annoyed answering my questions and was literally reading something off of a paper....smh



THANKS BUNCHES


I think they do get annoyed because that information is so clearly documented. But I know it can be confusing and sometimes you want to be able to just ask someone to make sure it's right! :)

Visajourney does a good job of listing all relevant forms for each stage here: http://www.visajourn...ontent/examples

I-134 is filed at your K1 interview and the I-864 is filed with the I-485 "Adjustment of Status" forms after you are married.

Relax and read as much as you can about this process and good luck!
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-06-02 14:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion about I-134

So, I am prepping for when the NOA2 arrives (a bit early, but it gives me something to do!)

I have noticed various suggestions and guidelines as what to submit with the I-134. My fiance will be interviewing in London. What do I need to send with the I-134 for his interview? I was planning on sending 3 years of tax transcripts, 3-4 current pay stubs and a letter from my employer.

i guess I should also state that I meet (exceed, actually) the 125% poverty guideline levels. Do I NEED a letter from my bank? I have very little in my checking/savings due to the fact that I'm in grad school...well, that and I just about cleaned out my savings for a trip to visit my Fiance in August! Is this letter an absolute must? If so - can the letter just state the opening date and the amount deposited this year - does it HAVE to include my balances?

Thanks :)



Are you self employed?
If not, all you need is a letter from your employer. Read the instructions here: http://www.uscis.gov.../i-134instr.pdf under 'supporting evidence'

Tax information is not required unless you are selfemployed.

Good luck and good job getting prepared before NOA2. It should speed things up for you guys!
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-06-01 22:44:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresDeatails of Medical Exam for K1

You have just posted (with a photo of yourself and your fiance) that he did drugs.


Yup. Good point.
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-06-03 07:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresDeatails of Medical Exam for K1

Unless I am wrong, London WILL not give an interview without a passed medical. They give interview dates 2 weeks after receiving results. I have been told this by them, and have read this.


You are correct. http://london.usemba...xamination.html

Apologies. Just shows you how quickly things change in the world of immigration! :) I was going through this in September/October 2010 and my interview was scheduled before my medical was.

Looks like the OP was not planning to do this anyways.

Thanks!
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-06-02 20:29:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresDeatails of Medical Exam for K1

Thank you Helen, I do understand the implications of his actions! I feel like I'm being lectured by my parents right now :bonk:

We are waiting for the copies of my paperwork to arrive in the UK and then he will schedule the medical. I don't think we will have to worry he was there several weeks ago & from what I am reading it goes out of your system in just over a month. Cheers! :star:


Cool beans. Several weeks should be fine.

The Doctor I saw commented and took a note about my physical appearance. (I am 5ft10 and thin), she told me they are bound to record anything they think is relevant about what they see. She noted this about me because my Blood Pressure was low which is not uncommon in someone of my body type.

Just a thought. They are 'checking you out' as well as performing their tests.

The medical is a breeze though. An XRay, a few tests, an exam and a chat with the Doctor. (and a couple hundred pounds of course)

Good luck!

Edited by Helen Louise Pile, 01 June 2011 - 11:05 PM.

Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-06-01 23:04:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresDeatails of Medical Exam for K1

Hi VJ'ers I was wondering what exactly gets done during the medical exam that has to be done before the interview. I know my fiance will need to bring his vaccination records, but is there anything else he needs to be worried about? Also does anyone know if they do drug testing? He recently returned from Amsterdam (enough said there) :blink:


Thanks for your reponses!



Oh I would be so mad! He should have foregone the fun in Amsterdam until after the medical. Having issues with drug use at your visa medical is a big deal. :oops:

Anyway. As previous poster said, they do ask. It's up to him what he tells them. It is a big risk if he lies when it might still be in his system.

If this were me...I would hold off on the medical. It doesn't have to be done prior to the interview but the Visa cannot be issued without it so it would hold things up. I guess it depends on how much of a rush you guys are in?

Good luck!!

PS: It doesn't make a difference that the Laws are different in Amsterdam.

Edited by Helen Louise Pile, 01 June 2011 - 08:37 PM.

Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-06-01 20:34:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresLondon Interview

Hi all

I have my interview in london on tuesday morning at 8:30am. The nerves are really starting to creep in now, but i guess its only natural. I know it clearly states on the website what documents to bring to interview, but it would just be great to have someone on here just double reassure me that i have everything i need for the big day. The embassy website can sometimes get a little confusing (well to me it does)

so i have ready for interview.......

passport
birth certificate
police certificate
i-134 from fiance and co-sponsor including tax/w2 forms for past 3 years, plus employee letter and birth certificates and other financial supporting evidence
lots of supporting evidence i.e photos, flight stubs e.c.t
interview letter
mrv receipt of payment
my passport style photos
NOA1 and 2
copy of i-129f original
DS-230 part 2
all originals

if im missing anything PLEASE let me know. Many thanks in advance guys, im always so appreciative and greatful of all the help i get from you guys on vj

Nathan


Seems like you are covered! (In fact you have way too much...but I did too. Better to be safe!)

Just make sure your photographs are US standard.

I would recommend either tucking a magazine into your documents or finding someone to chat with once you arrive. It can be a long wait :)

Have fun and good luck! It's not as scary as it seems!

Helen
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-06-05 17:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresStop my Application

Hi

I thought long and hard about it He cheated a year ago and I have been living with it for a year now what bothers me he did all of this while I was visiting him and I was 6 months pregnant I left for Haiti Sept 2009 found out he was cheating in October 2009 and decided to forgive him and I had the baby in Dec of 2009 and 4 months after he baby was born the other women was pregnant I feel like I cant live with that anymore I have been struggling ever since I met him my life has always been about him I just forgot about me and my kids I lost me I guess I didn't leave because I don't want to be alone but I cant live with this pain in my heart anymore I just hate that I'm pregnant again I could have forgiven him but the thing is he knew how much I suffered I lost so much weight I couldn't eat or sleep I suffered a lot and he was there through out all that and months later he got her pregnant how can I trust him I can't I really want to give up and the first step is to stopping the paperwork.



I am so so sorry to hear this happened to you.

You have clearly got back the strength he took from you and I wish you well.

I hope someone can give you some advice. Are you the petitioner or the beneficiary?

Much love,
Helen
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-06-06 18:07:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresquestion ds156 cdj

http://www.visajourney.com/examples/Form-DS-156.pdf


:thumbs:

"Not technically married"?? You are not married. So you do not have a spouse.

You will see from the above link: Q37 there is option to select that you are her fiance.
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-06-15 14:03:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSending Evidence

There is no reason to send all those pages. Just choose a select few conversations that covers the time frame of your relationship.

The most important evidence for the I-129F petition is proof of meeting in person within the last 2 years, and chat logs do not prove this. Most important is passport stamps and boarding passes showing your travels to visit each other.


:thumbs:

Include a few that span the course of your relationship. Send some pictures of you both that also span the whole relationship and perhaps some with some family in them. (we also wrote a brief description of the picture)

If you have to edit, you can use a marker to "censor" the statements you want kept private...but it if were me, I'd probably avoid including these to keep things simple.

Copies of passport stamps/itineraries or anything with both your names on it. (We had a council tax bill) Do you have a receipt for an engagement ring or anything you could include?

As the previous poster said...you only need to provide proof of meeting within the last 2 years.

I don't think length of relationship matters a great deal. The UK is not a high fraud country. How long have you known each other?

Goodluck!

Edited by Helen Louise Pile, 15 June 2011 - 04:36 PM.

Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-06-15 16:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 INITIAL Beginning Stages

Good picture of the whole porcess http://www.visajourn.../content/k1flow

Guides http://www.visajourn...content/k1guide

Tips http://www.visajourn.../content/k1tips

Some graphs showing averages of processing http://www.visajourn...nt/k1historical
You can get held up at any step of the way. Theses are averages of VJ people.

UK forum http://www.visajourn...united-kingdom/
You can click on timelines of people still not there yet (with the visa) and get a sense of how long they've been at it.

Sample forms filled out http://www.visajourn...ontent/examples

Read, read, read and don't make any plans for a wedding until you have a visa. The (one)tax return is taken to the interview which could be 8 months from now.


:thumbs:

Read the example forms and step-by-step provided here on VJ. I cannot stress how helpful that is. Also print off and read the USCIS instructions for filling out each form...all the information is there.

Follow these and if you cannot find an answer for a question, post it here and people will be able to help.

The I-134 (your fiance will bring this to his interview) does not require tax information unless you are self employed (or your co-sponsor is). However, I had read conflicting reports about people being asked for it at the London interviews. I took my husbands (then fiance) latest tax return but it was not required as I has brought the evidence asked for in the instructions.

Good luck with everything and congratulations on becoming engaged!
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-06-16 08:27:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresa few basic questions

I am just making sure I filled out my 129-f properly:

First off, I am the USC and living abroad with my fiance in Canada, I go to school and work here. Should I use my address in Canada or the address that I used to live at in the states? This is my mother's address and where both my fiance and I would intend to live for a little once we return home.

Second, my fiance has been to the US twice so far so I checked the yes box for question #11 "has your fiance ver been in the US?" but I am confused on what to put for #12, he is currently NOT in the US so what would I put for the arrival/departure record?

Now for proof of having met in the past 2 years ... we have been living in the same town since september 2009 and together since may 2010 ... we have our lease agreement with both our signatures on it, but other than pictures that is about it. we have only driven across the border and our passports were NEVER stamped by either country :( ... i thought about maybe going to the mall or somewhere and both buying something at the same store within minutes of each other and sending those reciepts? i'm not really sure what to do here...any comments, advice or input is greatly appreciated! thanks :)


Hello!

My husband and I (then fiance) also lived together in my country. For the evidence of meeting we supplied our council tax bill and lease agreement and a few pictures and a copy of his degree certificate from the local University and a copy of his UK visa (He is the USC). The evidence we sent was to corroborate Q18 of the I-129F form. We didn't have any passport stamps as we never left the country together. I think you'll be fine with a lease agreement and perhaps evidence of your fiances stay in Canada.

Someone else can help you with what to write in Arrivals/Departure. Have you checked here?http://www.visajourney.com/examples/Form-I-129F.pdf

When you file the I-129F, I think you'd have toput your US address. (Someone can verify or correct me on this)

Good luck with everything!
Helen
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-06-23 16:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresLondon Interview

Hi all. i am due to leave in a few hours to go to my interviw in london ,

Unfortunatley FEDEX have still not delivered my fiencies paperwork that i need , Affidavid of support , Federal tax slips , and pay stubbs , along with , photos
letter of intent ect , its all a disaster

i prolly allready know this , but i guess theres no point going to the interview now without all these things

All i have is the stuff from my side
evidence of meetings , ticket stubbs , some pics , ect
evidence of ongoing , emails , some fone records , printous from facebook showing me and her , ect
and copys of the paperwork i had to fill in to say we were ready for the interview. ( Damn fedex )
i could get my fience to email me copys of her Tax returns , Pay slipss , ect , but i guess this would not do

sorry , im just so pissed off right now that its all came down to them screwing up delivering a package


The most important thing to have at the interview is the I-134 and supporting documents. London does not tend to ask for evidence of relationship.

If it were me, I'd get her to email you that form. Plus the supporting evidence. (If she is NOT selfemployed and makes enough money then she only needs a letter from her employer stating her job is permanent and what she earns) Here: http://www.uscis.gov.../i-134instr.pdf While she'semailing you, it won't hurt to getcopies ofeverything (taxreturn/pay stubs)

Copies of these forms without original signatures will probably not be sufficient, but take them anyway. Go to your interview and do it anyway!

Someone can explain the procedure. But when I was there I got talking to a guy while we waited. He did not have the correct information. They did his interview anyway and took payment, he was given instructions for what to do when he does have the correct information (for him a police certificate) so that he can then be issued his visa. (without another interview).

Take the copies, explain the originals didn't arrive in time but that they are en route and relax and good luck to you!

Edited by Helen Louise Pile, 22 June 2011 - 11:51 AM.

Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-06-22 11:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F *denied* :( What to do next?

Brace yourself because this is going to sound a little harsh... :blush:

Your fiance didn't read the form instructions. Even without the VJ guides, you could have successfully submitted the I-129F petition AND included all of the required supporting forms, documents, and evidence just by exactly following the instructions for the I-129F form.

You don't need "proof of relationship" with the petition. You DO need proof that you've met, face-to-face, sometime in the last two years. You also need original statements from each of you indicating your intention to marry, and you may provide additional evidence to support your intentions. All of this is covered, in painful detail, in the form instructions. The form instructions also tell you to submit a G-325A form for each of you, and THAT form also has instructions. There is also evidence that must be submitted, and other evidence that may be required, depending on your circumstances. Again, it's all covered in detail in the form instructions.

I have seen other cases where people didn't read the instructions, and sent only the I-129F form, and they got a lengthy RFE asking for all of the additional required forms, documents, and evidence. I've also seen cases just like yours, where the petition was flat out denied. A USCIS adjudicator receives guidance in the Adjudicators Field Manual to send an RFE rather than deny when a case would be approvable if further evidence were provided, but this is a discretionary call the adjudicator makes. If they received none of the required evidence then it's understandable that they might not have the patience to play RFE tag with someone who clearly doesn't understand what they were supposed to have done.

It's also possible that your fiance blew some extremely important declaration on the I-129F. For example, did he check the "married" box for either of you? Did he fail to indicate how he acquired his US citizenship? Did he check "no" to question 18 - have you met and seen each other within the past two years? Did he check "yes" in response to the criminal conviction questions in part C? Did he fail to sign the form? Any of these would be sufficient reason to deny the petition outright, though some of these could have been overcome by providing the appropriate evidence.

Is your fiance subject to the IMBRA filing limitations? If so, did he include a request for a waiver? Don't know what I'm talking about? Of course not, because you didn't read the instructions.

Look, I'm not trying to rub your faces in this, but you and your fiance need to understand that the US government is beyond ####### when it comes to getting immigration paperwork right. They will not take you by the hand and walk you through it. They publish detailed instructions, and they expect you to follow them.

A minor point on semantics - don't refer to the I-129F as a "demand". There are many things which Americans have a right to demand of the government, but immigration is not one of them. Every immigrant visa petition is a "request", and a request can be denied.

Read the guides. Read the form instructions. File again. :thumbs:



This answer from Jim seems to be extremely clear.

Read the instructions that come with the form.

I like to read VJ for reassurance and clarity, but my husband has only ever read the USCIS form instructions before we file anything. Everything is clearly explained there.

You have to become educated and meticulous when it comes to this stuff to avoid delays in your journey. Sorry you have to endure this one.

Read Jim's answer, read the instructions: http://www.uscis.gov...i-129finstr.pdf

Good luck!

(ps, This is all part of your journey. You will laugh about it someday)
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-06-07 07:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhen will you marry?
"Within 90 days of my arrival" and "Within 90 days" were my answers at my interview and POE, respectively. It was the extent of our planning at the time so no problems. :)

Good luck!

Edited by Helen Louise Pile, 09 June 2011 - 08:59 AM.

Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-06-09 08:58:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWaiting for Interview

Is anyone else frustratedly waiting for an interview in London? I've managed to stay quite calm thoughout this process so far but this seriosuly seems to be taking forever. Its been 2 1/2 months since our NoA2 approval and I called the DOS line and my paperwork is still pending and I have not yet got an interview date. I was told that the embassy part was the fast part of the process but it certainly doesn't seem this way. Sorry to rant its just really difficult being in limbo. We cant start really planning anything until we've got the approval so it makes organising a wedding almost impossible!! Please hurry up UK Embassy London!!! Put me out of my misery!!!



If you are waiting for an interview I assume you have had your medical and you have completed 'packet 3'.

If not: http://www.visajourn...gdom&cty=London See part which says 'Packet 3 contains".

The embassy part can be fast if you anticipate what they will require (thank you visajourney!), return forms asap and get your medical done asap.

If you've done all this and have still heard nothing then perhaps you could email the embassy for advice.

It'll be over soon! You're getting near the end! :)
Helen

Edited by Helen Louise Pile, 30 August 2011 - 08:31 AM.

Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-08-30 08:26:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPLEASE HELP. I-864

I saved up religiously for a whole year (as did my wife) after waiting for more than three years in total to arrange finances and whatnot so we could afford for me to immigrate. I hate to criticise anyone about immigration, but maybe you guys should have waited a bit too.

Good luck!


Totally agree.

I am sufficiently impractical in life...but not when it came to marriage and emigrating. :)
Which surprised even me!
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-09-04 11:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPLEASE HELP. I-864

Thank you all for your replies, they have been thorough and helpful.

I do most definitely see how tricky the situation is for my parents in law, and how scary- I would never, ever- no matter how dire the circumstances even begin to consider suing them as an option, but there is no way I can prove that other than to not do it! I really wanted to have a contract written whereby I would somehow be beholden to pay them back or hold my own parents responsible, but of course this is pretty impossible.

It's a naughty thing to say I am sure, but I am a middle class, well educated kid with absolutely no record of deceit or any animosity towards my parents in law, my parents are wealthy and own numerous assets. As far as I am concerned this affidavit is lip service, and if there was ever a chance I would have to claim benefits for whatever reason, I would simply get a plane ticket back to England and start from square one.

I would absolutely no doubts at all do that before I considered suing them.

In regards to the first reply, I don't think I could've held up any longer mentally with the separation- it tears everyone apart, but the depression and anxiety I felt throughout the process was becoming increasingly damaging. I found a way to get here and I did it, my fiance didn't explain the AOS status portion of the visa to his parents. I tried to explain but through e-mail and coupled with me being tentative obviously the messages didn't actually get absorbed.

I personally find a lot of the visa process archaic and exhaustingly long-winded, the bureaucracy is almost enough to stamp out the love in the best relationship.


You have to understand that immigration is a bureaucratic process. If you're doing a K1 then you understand that now for sure! It will not stamp out the love in the best relationship...well, no more than marriage or having kids can so that to a relationship. Marriage is tough and involves sacrifice and hard work. You decided to make this move and you guys have to figure it out. Harsh but true.

I understand it's hard and it's frustrating that his parents won't just sign the form. But if your husband didn't explain it to them then they need to know what they are getting in to. They are the one's who'll be liable.

As another poster said, can you ask someone else to co-sign. A sibling, aunt or uncle, grandparent, friend, colleague? Is there anyone? Can you figure out another way to do this? Maybe both move back to the UK for a few years? I don't know if your folks could help if they are able to? I'm not sure how that works.

The other thing is that you only have to prove that your husband is now in a position to support you. My husband and I moved to the States from Scotland together because he'd been offered a job. He had no earnings for the previous 3 years in the States as we were in Scotland and he was a student, but he had a job at the time of signing the I864 which paid well and was above the poverty line. Can your husband leave school to work for a few months or a year and then go back? Check out the poverty line, it's not very high. You can also check out the financial gift and make sure it's all legal and figure out if that can be part of your equation. Read the instructions for filing the I-864 very carefully and figure out what you can do to meet these requirements. http://www.uscis.gov.../i-864instr.pdf

I wish you well!

Helen
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-09-04 11:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureswhat to say
How are you keeping in touch? Maybe you can record your day. Send her a recording of you walking to work and have people wave, say they can't wait to meet her etc...

Maybe you can take pictures of all the preparations you are making for her arrival? Find a Thai store and buy some home comforts?

If it's close to the interview than it's also'getting real' now. She might be nervous about moving??

It's too bad people in her village are not supporting her. She needs someone there to cheer her up and take her mind off it all! :)

Good luck!
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-09-04 15:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWe Finally have everything prepared I think!

Hey!

My guy included a table of contents, and also wrote down the historical dates (time line), events and involvement of our relationship, which also began in 2008. He included tickets stubs from our flights out to one another. He made 2 copies of packet one as well, and filed them at home.

Mega, mega good luck!


We did this also. There is also a space for iton the I-129F form somewhere.

And yes! Copies of everything! :)
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-09-04 20:29:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWe Finally have everything prepared I think!

Hey guys,

So we finally have prepared the last of our evidence to send to our lawyer to file our I-129f. I have pulled our skype records dating back to 2008, email records from both our accounts to and from, plenty of pictures of us together in the US different locations, in Toronto recently and in Ireland this year. We have proof we lived together at one point, i took screen shots of or viber log, the application we use to call each other, she made copies of cards i sent to her and cards she gave me and proof that her boss sponsored me for a J1 after we met.

I just want to make sure that everyone feels this should be sufficient evidence of our relationship and if anyone thinks anything else should be included?

Thanks guys im excited to get this filed and actually start one of those timeline thingys you all have in your signature :)

Thanks!!


For the I-129F you only have to prove you've met in the last 2 years. So call logs do not meet that requirement. You also include a document stating your intent to marry.

We sent our joint lease for our house and a few pictures and our degree from the same university and we didn't get any RFE's.

However, if there is a reason you are using a lawyer, it's better to be safe than sorry I guess! :)

Perhaps others who've gone through Ireland can give advice on whether any of that stuff is needed at the embassy stage. It certainly isn't in London but sometimes it's different for different countries.

Good luck!

Edited by Helen Louise Pile, 04 September 2011 - 08:16 PM.

Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-09-04 20:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresOriginal birth certificate?
From what I can see it is still the same as when I did mine.

Your fiance will take his birth certificate to the interview, along with his police certificate, passport and the appropriate forms and supporting documents.

Here is visa journey advice on what to send your fiance http://www.visajourn...content/k1guide

All embassy's are different and as far as I am aware London does not ask for proof of ongoing relationship at that stage (though I took that also).

So I think that it's fine that you can't find your birth certificate...but you might want to get another copy of that for future use.

Good luck with everything!
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-09-04 22:53:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresOriginal birth certificate?

When I sent the I-129F, I sent a copy (front and back) of my original birth certificate. I know I'm supposed to be sending the original to my fiance for his interview, but I misplaced it since I made a copy and I can't find it anywhere. At all. I tore my house apart. How important is it that I send the original one? I have another copy that I'm gonna have to send, but will it be a big deal?


I could be wrong....but I have never heard of needing the petitioners birth certificate at the interview. They certainly never asked me for it in London. I took a copy (i took a copy of everything) but was not asked for that, nor have I ever read that that is required at interview. Mine was 10months ago so perhaps it's changed....?

Can you share where you got the information that this is required. I am interested :)

Edited by Helen Louise Pile, 04 September 2011 - 10:30 PM.

Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-09-04 22:27:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresProof of meeting each other

We bought season passes, we both have cards with our photos and names on them. :) Plus receipts of course.
I also have a question about the pictures. Is it better to include the ones that were taken by others, because we have quite a lot of close-up photos (taken by either one of use or the remote)?


Great :)

The pictures are not required...but most people send them. They are good way to establish that you were together at one time. Items with dates on them are more important. So your season passes plus a picture of you guys there is good. You withdrawing money from his home town, is good. Passport stamps that show you entering the country are good.

As the previous poster said...if I were you I'd fill out the biographical info form before you leave and sign that plus a letter of intent to marry. (wouldn't hurt to get it notarized) and get passport pictures. Bear in mind that I think the passport pictures need to be recent when you apply so you may need to do them again, depending when you actually apply for the I-129F. But it doesn't hurt to get them if you may apply soon.

:)
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-09-05 11:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresProof of meeting each other

One thing, I can't pay with my card here, because it's Maestro and most places do not accept it. I can only get my money on ATMs, so that's what I'm doing. Plus, they hardly let me pay for anything. When he gets back from work, I'm going to ask him about the receipts from Six Flags, it would be a good thing to have those, since there is my name and his as well on it.


Your bank statement will have record of you withdrawing money from the US on specific dates,you can include copies of this in order to help build your case.

Do the Six Flags tickets have your names on them? That's the only way they'd be helpful I think. I guess even if they don't you can include a picture of you two there along with the tickets to establish date.
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-09-05 11:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresProof of meeting each other
Use your debit/credit card while you are there and keep those receipts.

Take pictures with his family and photocopy the stamps in your passport.

You also have to list all visits to the US in the I-129F and this one will be listed. When I had my K1 interview my interviewer was training a new person and he pulled up pictures of me at CBP on my previous visit to the US...so they have that info too! :)

Good job being prepared. My husband and I lived together in Scotland before we decided to move to the US so I didn't have to think about such things on a visit. If you are organised,you'll be fine :)

Have fun!
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-09-05 11:00:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSo frustrating!

So my fiance and I got engaged in Scotland (where he lives) mid-April and filed the paperwork which USCIS received May 16th. We received the NOA1 very soon after that but are STILL stuck in the preliminary (background check) stage of the process. Our wedding is November 5th of this year and I'm terrified we aren't going to have this visa in time. I've spoken to USCIS and they said we could still get married but then we'd have to start the process all over again to file for a spouse visa and there's no guarantee he'd be able to stay. We've spent way too much time apart and I don't want to wait any longer! Anyone have any advice? Does it really only 5 months for this (in which case we'd be fine) or is it much longer?

PLEASE HELP!!


USCIS received my application in May and I got my NOA2 in July and my interview was in October. We got married in November but we did not plan anything until I had my visa.

If I were you I'd check how easy it is to cancel/postpone your wedding. I'd also think about doing a 'faux' wedding, heading over for a wee holiday having the big party without actually signing anything and continuing on with your K1.

You could get married and start the process again...but check the timelines for that process first, many times it's longer than for a K1.

In the meantime your fiance could get his documents in order and make sure that he's good to go as soon as it gets transferred to the embassy. http://www.visajourn...gdom&cty=London

I also hope you get your NOA2 soon.

Good luck!
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-08-30 08:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresInterview Questions at London
Yes, there's good info in the embassy reviews.

It was an informal chat. First part they collect your forms, take your finger prints etc. Second part they have a chat about your fiance and relationship. The guy who interviewed me was very nice.
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-09-10 16:48:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPregnant during K-1
Vanessa: It's funny that the cost of health care here scares you but giving birth in an NHS hospital scares me!! :)

If you have good insurance you needn't be bankrupted by pregnancy. Depends on the insurance cover I guess. I am all new to this insurance malarkey but as I want to start a family at some point I have made sure I have insurance that is good for that in case it happens earlier than planned. (and dental...because I have good old NHS dental problems too)

Apologies for taking it off topic.

I hope the OP had her questions answered and has some good information! :)
Helen Louise PileFemaleScotland2011-09-11 21:22:00