ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresdoes NVC accept laminated copies?
Just to clarify on the photocopies vs originals or copies from the issuing entity - here is a link to the instructions regarding civil documents:

http://travel.state..../info_3195.html

Original Document Requirements
The applicant and each family member who will accompany the applicant to the United States will need to submit original documents or certified copies of the documents listed in this section from an appropriate authority (the issuing entity).
trailmixFemaleCanada2009-11-08 11:54:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresdoes NVC accept laminated copies?
Actually copies - as in photocopies are not ok for NVC. They ask for 'certified copies from the issuing authority' - or originals.

There is a big difference. The 'copy' they want is like one you would get from a government office in your country, not a photocopy.

Edited by trailmix, 08 November 2009 - 11:46 AM.

trailmixFemaleCanada2009-11-08 11:45:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresK3, K4 Visa converted to CR 1 by National Visa Center
I hate to ask the obvious, but I just want to make sure all bases are covered.

This is your biological child? Have you checked that he does not have derivative citizenship?
trailmixFemaleCanada2010-05-05 11:57:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNebraska USCIS

HiYa Everyone
Im looking for the address for USCIS in Lincoln, Nebrask, for FedEX delivering. I have the Box Office address, need non-usps address You help would be appreciated


NOTE: If using overnight delivery by any private service provider, send your package to:

USCIS

Nebraska Service Center

850 S Street

P.O. Box (Insert Correct P.O. Box Number)

Lincoln, NE 68508

Be sure to include the appropriate P.O. Box number on the shipping label.
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-07-21 16:29:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresfiancee work concern

The consequences of lying in the visa process are pretty severe. They are going to want to know how an adult manages to pay the bills if not employed, and probably suspect worse.

Frankly, I like a later suggestion better than my own. If one could truthfully indicate she is self employed or employed, in internet marketing, or fashion marketing, that might be better than showing an agency name and model as occupation.

Truth can be presented in a positive way. It need not include all details. My wife's paperwork showed a company name and title as "manager". She managed a department in a large retail establishment. I'm not certain any understanding of her occupation was gained from reading her forms.

As for the moralizing, I prefer to treat adults as adults and let them make their own decisions about their life choices without adding any judgmental comments. That's not the purpose of this forum.


I just want to make a comment here, which is off-off topic - but oh well. When the poster said that they might want to keep it a secret, he/she got no less than 6 reprimands.

I don't think that lying is the way to go either however I also don't believe in a 'renegade' attitude. This is a forum and from time to time (or more often) the posts will wander off - it's the way it is. If VJ wasn't such a successful forum and there weren't so many people using it - then it might be different - and less, in my view.

Using Pushbrk's reply as an example "The consequences of lying in the visa process are pretty severe. They are going to want to know how an adult manages to pay the bills if not employed, and probably suspect worse." - is far more effective at getting the correct information across than trashing the poster of incorrect or no-so-sound advice.
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-08-09 13:03:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFIANCEE WANTS TO RETURN TO KOREA!!
QUOTE (TracyTN @ Aug 24 2007, 10:19 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I thought the case numbers were now 2007 after the letters. Obviously I am dreaming that! laughing.gif


You must be dreaming of NVC (should stop that!) the NVC/Consulate numbers start with 3 letters then 2007 smile.gif
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-08-24 11:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFIANCEE WANTS TO RETURN TO KOREA!!
QUOTE (applewow @ Aug 24 2007, 09:57 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Caladan @ Aug 24 2007, 10:35 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
It's possible they've changed the numbering system since we had our petition approved last October. If it starts with three letters and then has trailing numbers, that's probably your case number. Was it stamped on the back of the check?



Yes,Al got the check and ,like he said, there is a same number..
When he called to uscis they stated that our NOA1 is on 20 of July
and that they are processing military petiton in a different way...
Maybe thats why we have some strange number that doesnt valid with
uscis website... huh.gif


We filed in March to Vermont - our receipt number format: Receipt Number: EAC07********
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-08-24 11:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHelp with border control?
QUOTE (liz_legend @ Aug 4 2007, 06:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
ya, but just because Canada shares a border with the US doesn't mean they just wave us across the border..

quite the contrary..

My luggage gets tested for explosives almost every visit, I almost always get about 10 mins of questioning at the border.. and this last trip.. I got a nice feel-down from a female officer that really wasn't called for considering I walked through the metal detectors with no problem. They actually pointed to me in the line (pre-metal detector) and said "do secondary on her"..

you just always need to be prepared

and my frequency of visits hasn't changed from pre-filing to post-filing..

ohmy.gif
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-09-04 22:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPassport for petitioner
QUOTE (lisakopavi @ Sep 10 2007, 08:46 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thank you very much for your help, do you know the email addy for the Montreal consulate by any chance? Good luck with your interview!!


Hi Lisa,

Links to embassy/consulate info can be found at the top of the page under "Embassy Info".

Here is the link for Montreal, please let us know what you find out smile.gif

http://www.visajourn...mp;cty=Montreal
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-09-10 22:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPassport for petitioner
QUOTE (Nini & Bee @ Sep 9 2007, 11:36 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I wouldn't go so far as to say that you can enter a US consulate in Canada casually. As I mentioned previously, both myself and my fiance were asked to present our passports at the entrance to the Vancouver consulate. I'm sure that in lieu of a passport one would be expected to present other government-issued ID.

Is there a documented source that says that a passport is required for admittance into a US consulate? All we've discussed so far are counterpoint experiences which may not necessarily be standard throughout all consulates.

Personally, I'd recommend to the OP that he send an email to the MTL consulate and see what they say.


I agree with you Nini & Bee and Pushbrk and I also agree that it would be a good idea to email Montreal for a confirmation and take that email with you to the interview - assuming they say come on in! Their website says that 1 U.S. citizen can accompany you in, with Photo I.D. - however as we all know this stuff changes from day to day.
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-09-10 11:02:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPassport for petitioner
QUOTE (Jason-Sasha @ Sep 9 2007, 10:22 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
If you're in any country and wish to enter an American Embassy or Consulate, you must first show identity in the form of a passport.


Not true. Perhaps it is in their guidelines, I don't know - however I went to the Calgary Consulate at least 4 times and never once showed my passport (and neither did my Mother or my Husband who went with me at different times).

Furthermore - it would be really tough to show your passport at the Consulate/Embassy if you were applying for a Passport.

Edited by trailmix, 09 September 2007 - 11:27 PM.

trailmixFemaleCanada2007-09-09 23:26:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHELP! Ran into a problem with the passport pictures.
In the instructions they say they can't be retouched, so it's probably not a good idea.

I can't see any reason why she can't email you a copy and you have them printed off. That isn't against the instruction and will save you a lot of time!
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-10-13 10:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresIs getting pregnant while waiting for K1 visa advisable?
QUOTE (Haole @ Oct 13 2007, 09:13 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Maggie724 @ Oct 13 2007, 04:30 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I agree. Aside from having an unknown wait time to even get the visa, IF the visa isn't denied, there is still the possibility Heaven forbid, that the situation won't work after you are together in the USA. I have heard of several recent relationships breaking off just before the interview or within a few months after the SO arrives in the USA. Since it doesn't help you get a visa, I'd wait.

DITTO BIGTIME!
Easy to get "knocked up". Not so easy not to! blink.gif


blink.gif
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-10-14 16:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresIs getting pregnant while waiting for K1 visa advisable?
QUOTE (ciarra @ Oct 14 2007, 07:49 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
a child of any US citizen has the right to acquire the citizenship of either one of his/her parent.
My child is born in PI and shes now holding US passport.
Just got to prove and show documents of what would the embassy will ask if you want to register your child. biggrin.gif


In the OP's case the child will be an American citizen. The will just need to register the birth abroad - no biggie.

It isn't true that 'a child of any US citizen has the right to acquire the citizenship of either one of his/her parent'. There are certain criteria for residency that must be in place.
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-10-14 15:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWrong Dimensions For The Passport Photo
QUOTE (MIDUVIL @ Sep 10 2007, 07:23 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I had the same problem, but i prefer re-do my picture for not having a RFE.
Pay attention: 2"*2" = 5.08 cm by 5.08 cm
1 inch=2.54 cm


God luck


As mentioned above, the conversion for the inch is 2.54 cm. Therefore the actual height from chin to top of forehead must be a minimum of 2.54 cm to a maximum of 2.85 (1.125 inches).

Just an idea, if the actual photo area of the face, chin to forehead, is correct, you could always modify the background to make it bigger, I'm sure a photo shop could do this for you (ie you would only be extending the canvas size, white background portion of the photo - rather than modifying or enlarging the actual picture).
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-09-10 20:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures129F forms
QUOTE (ks1881 @ Dec 2 2007, 05:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My fiance sent his divorce certificate along his 129F application. My question is, what document does USCIS needed? Is it divorced certificate or it has to be divorce decree? I started to get worry if our application got denied because he sent divorce certificate instead of divorce decree. Will divorce certificate acceptable?

Thank you


Divorce Certificates
Available. Moslems of all nationalities may obtain a divorce decree (Surat Talak) from the Kantor Urusan Agama (KUA - Office of Religious Affairs) within whose jurisdiction the divorce (talak) took place. Members of other religious groups may obtain a divorce certificate from the Civil Registry office (Dinas Kependudukan and Catatan Sipil) at the place within whose jurisdiction the divorce took place.

Good luck!
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-12-02 19:21:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNot sure where to post this..
Yes, that's right.

http://www.visajourn....php?history=90

For K visas right now (narrowed down to the last 3 months as the service centers have gotten much slower recently):

Vermont - around 144 days to NOA2

Then it goes off to the National Visa Center for a short spin (not sure how long, but basically it just gets passed along to the consulate)

Then:

Avg. Days between Consulate Receiving Information from NVC and Actual Interview

K1 107 days
K3 28 days (I question this one as it is only based on 1 record)

So for the K1 for example - around 251 days

I would really recommend that you post in the UK forum, people there will have recent experience and perhaps you can throw these numbers at them and see if that has been their experience lately.

UK Forum

Edited by trailmix, 20 December 2007 - 11:57 PM.

trailmixFemaleCanada2007-12-20 23:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNot sure where to post this..
Hi Dawn,

For the timeline graphs etc.

If you go to this page: http://www.visajourney.com/timeline/

You can click on, for instance IR1/CR1 Visas > Historical Trends

Once there you will see a graph, this represents all I-130 IR1/CR1 applications (worldwide) in the last year and the average number of days between receiving the NOA1 and going for the interview - right now that average is between 340 and 350 days - so it's a good quick reference.

In the list below the graph you will see the average days between I-130 application and NOA2 approval at Vermont is currently 126.

You can narrow it down a bit further by scrolling down the page to look at the average for the UK. Currently it shows an average of 270 days between the NOA2 and the interview.

So from this you can generally take that the average time for the UK resident, between application and interview is the 126 days at Vermont and the 270 days between that and the interview for a total wait of 396 days on average.

These timelines are based on the information we each enter in our timelines, therefore it fluctuates based on how fast, or slow, people at visa journey are moving through the process.

Hope this helps.
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-12-20 23:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhen the USCIS sends you a request for evidence
QUOTE (panamania79 @ Jan 22 2008, 11:01 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thank you.This whole thing has me a nervous wreck. blink.gif


Oh, you posted in the CR1/IR1 forum so I hadn't bothered to look to see what you had applied for.

It will be fine, a request for further information shouldn't be a big deal, you will give them whatever documentation they need good.gif
trailmixFemaleCanada2008-01-22 13:10:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhen the USCIS sends you a request for evidence
QUOTE (panamania79 @ Jan 22 2008, 10:45 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (trailmix @ Jan 22 2008, 12:40 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (panamania79 @ Jan 22 2008, 10:35 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My congressman's office just called me and said that's what they're going to send me.They didn't say what they were looking for.


Probably relationship proof, what did you send with your application to prove your ongoing relationship?


I sent them: 3 plane ticket stubs,12 pictures,and personal statements from his mom and 2 aunts.


Hmm, well that seems good, however you never know, they may want more. You are sure you sent in everything else, the 4 copies of the G325A for each of you - the marriage certificate - proof of your U.S. citizenship - your spouses photograph?

If so then it probably is the relationship thing, time to think about other items you can send to prove a bona fide relationship - doesn't hurt to be more prepared for the interview anyway.

Do you have any type of finances that you share? A bank account a policy of some sort - anything?

Edited by trailmix, 22 January 2008 - 12:53 PM.

trailmixFemaleCanada2008-01-22 12:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhen the USCIS sends you a request for evidence
QUOTE (panamania79 @ Jan 22 2008, 10:35 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My congressman's office just called me and said that's what they're going to send me.They didn't say what they were looking for.


Probably relationship proof, what did you send with your application to prove your ongoing relationship?
trailmixFemaleCanada2008-01-22 12:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures1st post former NSC adjudicator now petitioner

I find that almost all attempts to convey sarcasm in a text medium fail miserably...or at least they do when I try it :lol:


Yes, you are right, it translates poorly in text, the 'burning question' part wasn't 'serious' either. :whistle:
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-05-04 10:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures1st post former NSC adjudicator now petitioner
Oh and the 'completely random' part was tongue in cheek. You guys are losing your sense of humor :)
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-05-02 16:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures1st post former NSC adjudicator now petitioner

Funny, I thought Huskerkiev had answered that quite plainly - when he described the boxes and how they are distributed, etc. and that one adjudicator may start at the middle of the box, the other at the end.

And don't got by NOA1 dates - that will only be a lesson in futility for you. I was a November NOA1er and watched LOADS of December filers get approved way before me.


Well, I guessed I missed that post - there are well over 200 posts in this thread and I must admit I did not read each and every one.
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-05-02 16:24:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures1st post former NSC adjudicator now petitioner
No one has asked the burning question!

Are the order the files processed in completely random?

I have been watching the forums for a couple of months now seems some people wait a year for an NOA2 and some just a couple of months.

There is a thread for K1 visas, with date submitted, NOA1 sent etc etc and today someone who filed after us at VSC got their NOA2.

There is nothing peculiar about our application (really!) We have been married for almost 7 years.

Our application hasn't even been touched, I just don't get it.
trailmixFemaleCanada2007-05-01 18:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresplease help....i am new here
Hi meandblue,

My Sister (dual Canadian/American citizenship) lived in the U.S. with her Canadian Husband for about 7 years on a TN visa (we hadn't documented our U.S. citizenship yet - so they were both technically Canadian's living there).

Basically, what they did, after she documented her U.S. citizenship - they crossed the border, renewed his TN visa for a year (as they had to do every year, I see that they are now issuing 3 year visas) - and applied for an Adjustment of Status for him.

I don't know if you have read anything on the site here about adjustment of status, but it might be a good idea to familarize yourself with it.

I don't see any reason why you couldn't get married now and get the paperwork process underway (but I am certainly no 'expert' on adjustment of status smile.gif ).

This is probably a good place to start - Step-by-Step Guide on How to File an I-130 for a Spouse Inside the US

Edited by trailmix, 21 November 2008 - 09:04 AM.

trailmixFemaleCanada2008-11-21 09:03:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresi-129f petition filed from canada. lots of questions.
QUOTE (jtracc @ Jan 7 2009, 10:06 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Okay hey guys,

Me and my fiance met 3 years ago at a wedding. Let me tell you now that i am duel citizen i am american and canadian. I was born in Canada, but moved to the US when i was 3 with my parents. My mom is american my dad is canadian. so.. me and my fiance are now living in canada ontario together (i moved here in september 08). i am assembling the i-129f package and getting ready to send to the appropriate service center (which is vermont, she used to live in the state of florida). however i am having some trouble understanding a few things.

1) Will we have any problems filing the petition from canada?
2) On the i-129f form it ask's me how i am a citizen of the USA. its PART A question 10. "My citizenship was acquired through.." i selected parents. then it asks "Have you obtained a certificate of citizenship in your name?" all I have is my birth certificate abroad which is a form called fs-545. in the i129f directions it says to submit fs-240 if born abroad, but i dont have that form, all i have the fs-545 form. can i use the fs-545? also it says give certificate number and date and place it was issued, but the fs-545 does not have a certificate number on it? any information on that need help about that question BIG TIME.

those are my first two questions i have rite now. i have more but i will wait for answers on these two. please i need help, i dont want to hire a lawyer and the toll free phone numbers available for help i cant use in canada, they do not work. please any help.

Nicole.


Hi Nicole and welcome to VJ!

You will not have any problem filing the petition from Canada, it is perfectly ok to do this.

As for the FS-545 - I understand, from looking it up, that 'before November 1, 1990, consulates also issued Form FS-545 along with the prior version of the FS-240. In 1990, U.S. consulates ceased to issue Form FS-545'

I see no reason why they would not accept your FS-545 - it is their document, the one they were issuing for births abroad. An alternative, of course, would be for you to get a U.S. passport and use that instead - but as I said, I think your FS-545 will be fine.

As it has no certificate number, I would just note this on the I-129F and attach a sheet stating that your document has no certificate number however you are attaching a copy.

Oh and you may want to visit the Canada forum here on VJ as well:

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showforum=93

3. What Documents Do You Need to Show That You Are a U.S. Citizen?

A. If you were born in the United States, give USCIS a copy, front and back, of your birth certificate.
1. Your original Certificate of Citizenship, or
2. Your Form FS-240 (Report of Birth Abroad of a United States Citizen).
D. In place of any of the above, you may give USCIS a copy of your valid, unexpired U.S. passport issued with a validity period of at least five years. You must submit copies of all pages in the passport.

E. If you do not have any of the above and were born in the United States, see Item 4, What If a Document Is Not Available.

Edited by trailmix, 08 January 2009 - 08:08 AM.

trailmixFemaleCanada2009-01-08 08:04:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurestruth?
Or maybe the OP is just a bit uncomfortable here.

Anyway, you probably won't find that many people here who have used a lawyer, because most here are doing it themselves.

As for lying vs telling the truth, well really that is your call. No one here should be telling you to lie and if they do I assume they will help you in some way if you are found out and get a ban? Or not.

See that is the thing, the ultimate decision about whether you lie or tell the truth in this situation is up to you, you are the one that will live with the consequences of your decision. It's easy for someone else to tell you to lie - they aren't going to be banned. While you sit in Canada waiting out a ban, they will be in the U.S. with their Husband or Wife.

If you have a good and I mean GOOD immigration lawyer I am sure it can help you to understand the legal implications of drug use and a criminal record, with regard to immigrating to the U.S. and how to overcome this.

Edited by trailmix, 19 February 2009 - 11:35 AM.

trailmixFemaleCanada2009-02-19 11:34:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresTraveling to see each other (US and Canada) after...
QUOTE (Todd&Dani @ Mar 2 2009, 11:31 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
BUMP

What we have decided to do is mail the I-129F petition on lucky Friday March 13th and when I enter a week later on March 20th just state I am going down for vacation and leave out any mention of "fiancee" at this point. Thoughts and advice is highly appreciated.

Thanks in advance,
Todd & Dani


I guess it depends how good you are at omitting details?

Perhaps you should answer with whatever answer you are most comfortable with. Do you think omitting that you are visiting your fiance' is - not telling the truth?

If so, then you will probably look like you are lying and you will get asked more questions and - well and then what?

Think of it this way - you can take all your ties to Canada with you and a copy of your I-130, tell them you are going to visit your fiance' and if they ask for your proof of ties, you are good.

Tell them you are going for a vacation, if they question you further - you will probably have to mention your fiance' - how is that going to look? You don't want to make them mad - they are very unpleasant when they are mad.



trailmixFemaleCanada2009-03-02 12:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresError on G325A (Beneficiary's)
QUOTE (Sam and Ben @ May 19 2009, 02:41 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Karin und Otto @ May 19 2009, 09:32 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Sam and Ben @ May 19 2009, 08:19 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I mentioned in the thread's title. I'm the beneficiary.

Should we call just to ensure that it's, I don't know, recorded to show that we did notice and make an effort to change the error? And I'd assume it'd be the petitioner calling, not myself?

Assuming you don't get an RFE for it (and you likely wont) - I wouldn't DO anything at this point. Probably the best time to correct this would be at the Embassy/Consulate when you have your interview - explain (at some point) that an error was made and ask if they could correct it (or allow you to correct it). (That's what I would do.) good.gif


There isn't any harm in doing this? I mean, if I bring it up at the interview, they'll know that I obviously noticed the error sometime previous to that moment. There won't be any backlash from not letting them know ahead of time?

I mean, I know that MY employment history obviously isn't the be all and end all, due to the fact that I'm not coming over for work, etc. If it was HIS, it'd be a much bigger issue I'm sure... still, I'm worried, and like the rest of this process, wanting to ensure that I don't get any surprises come interview day.

I do apology greatly for my paranoia..


I understand your paranoia...you have been reading VJ.

Like others have said, just mention it at the interview, remember that the person interviewing you is an actual human being and i'm sure they will understand that someone made a little date error on their paperwork.

trailmixFemaleCanada2009-05-19 13:47:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresmarriage or fiancé visa?
QUOTE (Kathryn41 @ May 4 2009, 06:38 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
If you get married and return to Canada for the CRI, you would remain in Canada (visits are allowed) during the processing but you would receive your green card when you crossed the border. Then you would just need to wait about 2 weeks so your information is in the computer system and you can apply for a SSN and go to work.


Just want to clarify that you don't 'literally' get your green card when you cross the border with a CR1. It will arrive in the mail, generally a couple of weeks after you arrive in the U.S. - then, as Kathryn mentions, you will go and apply for your SSN.



trailmixFemaleCanada2009-05-19 09:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAmerican marrying a Canadian
I'm a US citizen dating a Canadian who is living in Canada and we have begun discussions of getting married. I plan on getting engaged this fall (September?) and marrying in the spring of next year (May?).

If we get engaged in the fall she would like to move here shortly thereafter so we can be together and so she can begin looking for employment. So a 90 day fiancee visa would not be long enough and I'm not sure that I can sponsor her since we wouldn't be married yet.

You need to read the guides, in particular the comparisons of different types of visas. There is a guides link at the top of this page. You can sponsor her as a fiancee, if you wish to do so.

She cannot move without a visa and she cannot work without employment authorization.

If she wants to be able to work as soon as she arrives, you should get married first and apply for a CR1 visa (she must interview in Canada, she can still visit you while this is processing, takes 10 months to a year). If that is not so much of an issue, you may want to apply for the K1 fiancee visa (possibly a bit shorter wait time for processing, still several months). After that visa is issued she has 6 months in which to use it, by entering the U.S. and you have 90 days to get married. She will then need to do what is called an adjustment of status. This visa costs more than the CR1 and she cannot work until she either gets her EAD (employment authorization document) or her green card/SSN. She cannot leave the U.S. until she gets what is called Advance Parole - or alternately her green card (not even for a visit to Canada).


The wedding would take place in Canada and we would probably need to be able to travel back and forth while engaged to making wedding plans.
The honeymoon trip would be right after the wedding and we would be travelling outside the US and Canada for at most 2 weeks.
We would then return to the US to live together.

You really need to read the guides, this scenario won't work.

I'm very confused as to if we can even do this and if so, what forms to complete and when everything has to happen. Also, she doesn't want to give up her Canadian citizenship so I assume that in the end she would get a green card. There is also a change that in a few years down the road we may end up moving to Canada.

No need for her to give up her Canadian citizenship. If a few years down the road she decides she wants to apply for U.S. citizenship she can, then she will have dual citizenship.

Edited by trailmix, 26 May 2009 - 10:32 AM.

trailmixFemaleCanada2009-05-26 10:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG325A help
QUOTE (carvin317 @ Jun 10 2009, 09:42 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Where do i find my fiancee alien registration number and FILE NUMBER ? g325A



If your fiancee does not have one - just write in N/A in the field.
trailmixFemaleCanada2009-06-11 08:39:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresDiscussion with Congressman's Office regarding USCIS K-1, Processing timelines
QUOTE (rebeccajo @ Jan 19 2008, 01:29 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (babblesgirl @ Jan 19 2008, 01:23 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (rebeccajo @ Jan 19 2008, 06:09 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
http://www.visajourn...p...at=3&page=2

Check out the "TSC" and "Valentines Day" photos. Click on them.


Thanks Rebecca for that. So it all started as a result of people getting together to protest about visa processing delays in Texas? Thank goodness these people got together and organised all of this for the rest of us.

If this is true then it raises the question for me as to why there is so many disparaging comments from some VJ members about K1 filers getting stressed about delays on their petitions. Surely they are knocking the very motivation for this site being here in the first place.


I'm not sure which came first - the chicken or the egg - ie the site or the protests.

My opinion - the 'disparaging comments' come from the fact that those who have been around a bit longer realize that what is happening now - long timelines - isn't something new. It has happened before. Everytime there's a 'hiccup' with the service, the current batch of 'hiccupees' start protesting about the unfairness, etc. They are right, I suppose, but the unfairness has happened before and the 'disparaging remarks' are made to try and help the currently frustrated see that fact.



I'm so grateful for the collective knowlege that came through the birth and growth of VJ. I appreciate that is is a place where people can both learn, vent, and find encouragement for those long waits. No matter how right or wrong it is to get upset at USCIS, we would not have what we have in this forum today if people did not use their frustration as a motivation to try to find answers and gain understanding. Holding public officials accountable in a democratic society is fundamental to our rights and freedoms. Even though there are logical explanation for delays, people who end up waiting longer than is reasonable, should be heard and heard in a way that is effective. I'm Canadian, but if I had the power to call a congressman, write a letter, notify the media, I would. How else will we ensure that those who are facing unreasonable waits get treated with the fairness and decency that is promised to them in your constitution?

On another note...wouldn't it be nice if USCIS would provide a link to VJ on their site. Not likely to ever happen, but just thinking that the things I've learned here have helped me gain a far better handle on this process and be better prepared than the information provided by USCIS resources or our lawyer!
good.gif
rupaMaleCanada2008-01-19 14:08:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSetting a marriage date whilst waiting for the visa
Great posts everyone. I can definitely relate to the feeling like having a breakdown every day. Moving to a new country far away from family and friends, planning a wedding remotely AND going through the Visa process is a LOT to handle. Not being able to plan on definitive dates only multiplies the stress. I think most here can relate to that, especially when all we want is to just be with our loved one and get on with life. This process is just a bit of a speed bump that requires patience, perserverance and a dose of faith, but you will get through it one way or the other. Just keep going and make sure to lavish love on your sweetie every chance you get.

I got some good advice from Queen Jen to put that nervous energy to good use and start creating short lists of first, second and third choices for vendors so that once the visa is in hand, the invitations are ready to send the next day, and a list of phone numbers is handy to finalize the wedding plans. That way I can basically pull out my list and book my wedding in one day cause I've already done all the research and figured stuff out. Basically, I'm planning the entire wedding (100 people) now, just not confirming anything until I have the Visa in my hot little hand. I don't want to take the chance of loosing large deposits so will wait until I actually have the visa to make deposits. I figure by having multiple options laid out and by being flexible we can book a wedding even in high season. I also plan to be ready to cross the boarder within a few days of getting the visa, to be in the u.s. to finalize wedding plans.

But as someone else already said...it's just one day, albeit a special day. If you are the kind of person that needs the table cloths to match the bridesmaids dresses, you may be subjecting yourself to some unnecessary stress and frustration. By being flexible and resourceful you can still have a beautiful, well planned wedding while at the same time juggling the visa process.

As far as relatives/friends booking flights....we've told everyone the ball park the date that we're hopng for...July 12....but made them aware that it may be pushed back depending on when I get the visa. I'll be calling everyone as soon as I can after the interview so they can buy the flights and book time off work. But at least they know it's comming and are saving vacation days for it etc.

And yes, I've bought the dress already!!!! I'll be using the reciept as part of the proof of our relationship at the interview!

I find being busy workng on the planning helps with the waiting......plus it's great to feel excited and be looking forward to that special day rather than feeling depressed about the wait time.
rupaMaleCanada2008-01-25 14:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresTold by NVC that petitions only sent to Montreal not Vancouver???
Hi there,

So my fiancee called NVC to see if they had our petition yet. NOA2 was Feb 29. They said they had not received it yet. Asked when they get it when they expect it to be sent to Vancouver and they said that they only send them to Montreal??? What??? I live in Calgary, so was assuming that my petition and interview will be handled by Vancouver. Any other Canadians out there confused by this, or had their petitions mis-directed?

I want to make sure ours does get to Vancouver so we don't lose time messing around getting it sent from Montreal.

Any suggestions?

Urgh!!!! wacko.gif

Edited by rupa, 07 March 2008 - 03:50 PM.

rupaMaleCanada2008-03-07 15:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresA prayer for those still waiting.....
Hi Folks,

it breaks my heart sometimes to read some of the stories and situations posted here on VJ. I myself am just starting the procss of waiting and have already begun experincing the emotions that can debilitate and sap your strength as we stumble through this process. I felt compelled to say that the love that we share with our SO's is something that is very precious and worthy to be upheld, nurtured and protected. Origionally I was going to post about how tough this week has been, but decided that instead I should offer up a prayer for those still waiting and those struggling in the process, who have had their love and patience tested.

Father, please hear my prayer.

You say to us Lord that the things that matter in this life are faith, hope and love and that the greatest of these is love. For each and every person who has started this proces of immigration because of the love they share with another, I ask you for your protection over their lives, their family and their relationship. Please grant them grace for the moments when their visa's are held up and the waiting becomes stressful. Father I pray for each couple who has hit a snag that you would watch over their communication, help them to deal with each other in understanding, being patient and encouraging even when it is a struggle to find the stength. Father I pray that their defered hope would not make their heart sick, but that you would grant them a special reprive, in some special way, a break from the stress and frustration of waiting. I ask that you would use this process for the good of their relationship and not for harm, and that you would intervene where the immigration process has treated them unfarely or where mistakes have been made. Pease father bring those people who are waiting too long for their loved ones together soon, bless and strengthen their love for each other and guard their hearts from despiar. Please make their homecommings a sweet sweet moment and watch over them as they build thier new lives together in America.

Amen
rupaMaleCanada2008-02-24 14:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHoneymoon destination Hawaii - problems?
Any thoughts on Puerto Rico? my fiance and I are really hoping to do our honeymoon there. Anyone had any experience going there?

Most posts I've read say don't chance it, but has anyone gone and had any problems?
rupaMaleCanada2008-04-14 09:11:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresVancouver Interview Granted!!!


bearmirusMaleCanada2008-01-10 01:11:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresIncome questsions.

I say debated since it seems that each consulate does not follow this, for example, we showed 3x and I have seen other VJ memeber who were required to demonstrate 5x... so I think that the application of this might be consulate specific. Also, the Italy embassy would not even consider my husbands assets in Italy even though they exceeded by over 15x the 125%, we had to put the 3x in an account in my name in the United States???


It could be consulate or even CO specific. As you have found, they don't always follow their own guidelines.

It's the same in Montreal for some things.
trailmixFemaleCanada2010-01-12 17:16:00