ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresWhen will i have to leave?

Thats interesting, I have not seen a K3 for a loong time.



Boiler here is one http://www.visajourn...ess-in-the-usa/
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2012-06-03 12:40:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresWhen will i have to leave?

You won't be getting a K3 visa, you'll be getting a CR-1 visa (IR-1 if you've been married over 2 years when you enter the US).

You'll receive the visa within a week or two after the interview, and you don't have to enter the US for another 6 months, as long as the medical and police certificates are still valid.



How sure are you in stating that she will not be receiving a K3?
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2012-06-03 12:13:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresWhen will i have to leave?
Are you sure you are prusuing a K3, if so a K3 is a mulitple entry visa for 3 years, so you could leave one day and return back to home country the very next day.

Now, if you are pursuing a CR1, again when you arrive in the US it will activate your temp GC status, with that you can arrive and leave back out within 24 hours.

So either of these can give you some lead way in time for the permante move.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2012-06-03 12:08:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresK3 General Guide and Info
QUOTE (mrshamilton @ May 27 2009, 08:08 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello there every1.. I have a quick ?... me & my hubby's I129 was approved on 02/13/2009 and sent to Kingston and my hubby's packet #3 was mailed on 02/20/2009.. well he never got it... I was told I can print the DS230 and send it to him, but what about the medical form, can I do that one as well or can he pick that form up?



MRS. HAMILTON, DID YOU E-MAIL THE EMBASSY AT THE E-MAIL THAT I GAVE YOU. WHAT DID THEY TELL YOU TO DO?
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2009-05-27 19:10:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionI am so lost
QUOTE (Barbarella UK @ Jul 31 2008, 03:30 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (RoxcieJoe @ Jul 30 2008, 11:00 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JOURNEE1125 @ Jul 30 2008, 10:16 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I am new to this entire process. I do not understand most of the abbrv. I am divorcing right now awaiting my decree seperated for years just never finalized (I married the guy next door who was /is my best friend I just didnt know when I married him how BAD OIL AND WATER can be!) . I will then submitt my paperwork. My Fiance' lives in Jamaica, I live in Jamaica. (Visit Every Month for mor than a year, I have every itenerary and passport marked)

Situation/ Circumstance #1:I do not get paid by check nor have I filed any taxes for probably3yrs! (Will it be a problem if my sister provides affidavit of support she makes $60k? If not what form is this? )
#2 What is "parole"?

3.Will he have to gamble and try to get an appointment on Jamaicas Web for a visa appointment. (We have been trying for a NIV appointment for mnths and we finally got a apointment and it was denied. Went to appointment with documents and pic as proof that :He owns his Home c Car, Works Full Time and Has his own business, $6,000usd worth of business equipment. Has custody of his 3 children and Crippled 78 year old mother! Go figure blink.gif ) So will he have to try to get an appointment for K1 visa or will they set it by way of US?

4. I am the only one who is TOTALLY EXHAUSTED! by this entire process!
I would appreciate all the help I can get. (Please dont get frustrated by my questions because I will have plenty of them)

On a brighter note take a look at the following link. If you are still in this process it will make you happy!

http://sungoldphoto.com/Karina-Kevin/

Keep smilin sistahs, maybe we can all have a drink on the beach in Jamaica! (Then fly away with our spouses and do something to make things easier for those to come:) good.gif )



Question, Are you and your finance coming to the USA to live if the visa is granted?
You'll wish to apply for the finance visa, then you need to read up oon the guidelindes. See the link under the GUIDE tab above

Be Bless


The Finance visa????????? biggrin.gif Apologies, it's late and this thread is making me laugh!!!!!!!!! (Barbarella tries to collect her composure)



With life being so short, I was glad to make your day and give you some humor.

QUOTE (RoxcieJoe @ Jul 30 2008, 11:00 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JOURNEE1125 @ Jul 30 2008, 10:16 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I am new to this entire process. I do not understand most of the abbrv. I am divorcing right now awaiting my decree seperated for years just never finalized (I married the guy next door who was /is my best friend I just didnt know when I married him how BAD OIL AND WATER can be!) . I will then submitt my paperwork. My Fiance' lives in Jamaica, I live in Jamaica. (Visit Every Month for mor than a year, I have every itenerary and passport marked)

Situation/ Circumstance #1:I do not get paid by check nor have I filed any taxes for probably3yrs! (Will it be a problem if my sister provides affidavit of support she makes $60k? If not what form is this? )
#2 What is "parole"?

3.Will he have to gamble and try to get an appointment on Jamaicas Web for a visa appointment. (We have been trying for a NIV appointment for mnths and we finally got a apointment and it was denied. Went to appointment with documents and pic as proof that :He owns his Home c Car, Works Full Time and Has his own business, $6,000usd worth of business equipment. Has custody of his 3 children and Crippled 78 year old mother! Go figure blink.gif ) So will he have to try to get an appointment for K1 visa or will they set it by way of US?

4. I am the only one who is TOTALLY EXHAUSTED! by this entire process!
I would appreciate all the help I can get. (Please dont get frustrated by my questions because I will have plenty of them)

On a brighter note take a look at the following link. If you are still in this process it will make you happy!

http://sungoldphoto.com/Karina-Kevin/

Keep smilin sistahs, maybe we can all have a drink on the beach in Jamaica! (Then fly away with our spouses and do something to make things easier for those to come:) good.gif )



Question, Are you and your fiance coming to the USA to live if the visa is granted?
You'll wish to apply for the fiance visa, then you need to read up oon the guidelindes. See the link under the GUIDE tab above

Be Bless





See this link http://www.visajourn...mp;page=k1guide


Be Bless
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2008-07-31 05:34:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionI am so lost
QUOTE (JOURNEE1125 @ Jul 30 2008, 10:16 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I am new to this entire process. I do not understand most of the abbrv. I am divorcing right now awaiting my decree seperated for years just never finalized (I married the guy next door who was /is my best friend I just didnt know when I married him how BAD OIL AND WATER can be!) . I will then submitt my paperwork. My Fiance' lives in Jamaica, I live in Jamaica. (Visit Every Month for mor than a year, I have every itenerary and passport marked)

Situation/ Circumstance #1:I do not get paid by check nor have I filed any taxes for probably3yrs! (Will it be a problem if my sister provides affidavit of support she makes $60k? If not what form is this? )
#2 What is "parole"?

3.Will he have to gamble and try to get an appointment on Jamaicas Web for a visa appointment. (We have been trying for a NIV appointment for mnths and we finally got a apointment and it was denied. Went to appointment with documents and pic as proof that :He owns his Home c Car, Works Full Time and Has his own business, $6,000usd worth of business equipment. Has custody of his 3 children and Crippled 78 year old mother! Go figure blink.gif ) So will he have to try to get an appointment for K1 visa or will they set it by way of US?

4. I am the only one who is TOTALLY EXHAUSTED! by this entire process!
I would appreciate all the help I can get. (Please dont get frustrated by my questions because I will have plenty of them)

On a brighter note take a look at the following link. If you are still in this process it will make you happy!

http://sungoldphoto.com/Karina-Kevin/

Keep smilin sistahs, maybe we can all have a drink on the beach in Jamaica! (Then fly away with our spouses and do something to make things easier for those to come:) good.gif )



Question, Are you and your finance coming to the USA to live if the visa is granted?
You'll wish to apply for the finance visa, then you need to read up oon the guidelindes. See the link under the GUIDE tab above

Be Bless
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2008-07-30 22:00:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionFiling in January and Tax returns
We are unable to answer your questions without first knowning what type of visa you'll will be filing for.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2009-01-12 16:15:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionHELP!HELP!
Since you have not stated clearly what type of interview she is going to attend, I am going to assume it is a vistior visa. If this is correct, than a visitor visa 131.00 US dollars.

http://kingston.usem...y.gov/fees.html
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2009-04-24 20:06:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussionhelp! I'm afraid I might fail my medical exam!
You probably won't be covered on his Health insurance until you becomes his wife. Your husband needs to check to see if his HI has a pre-existing clause. If so, then your condition will fall into the pre-existing clause. this is just a FYI,
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2009-05-13 19:17:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionChild interview CRI-2? Questions
Islandwoman on the JA forum, husband son just had his interview today. You need to post under the Yardie post, she will probably be on tonight. Jengles went with her stepchildren last month, she could probably give you more, but posting it in the Yardie thread will give you better and faster answers.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2009-06-03 19:02:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionChild interview CRI-2? Questions
Do he/she know your husband, if the husband is not the father. Other than that it will be more questions directed to you.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2009-06-03 18:52:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionWorried!!!
Why don't your husband scan all of the documents and sent them to you via-email.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2009-06-06 10:23:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionDS-230 Part I Question
QUOTE (danzika @ Jun 14 2009, 02:27 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Dear All,

Question 22 asking for the current Address of the father. But the father is Deceased !!! What would be the answer to this question?

on Part-II of this form Item #39 Name and address of Petitioner? Who's Name should be me the USC or her name?
even they are not asking for part-II now.

Thanks to all of you for the help




1. Deceased

2. The USC is the Petitioner......
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2009-06-14 13:37:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionVisitors Visa for Holiday
QUOTE (shemmert @ May 29 2009, 05:43 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My daughter went on vacation with me to Jamaica in January 2009. At the hotel she and I met the singer in the hotel band. She is female and my daughter and her hit it off. They are the same age and like the same music etc. My daughter and I told her she could stay with our family if she came to the US on Holiday.
She has a passport and has filled out paperwork to interview with the Embassy on June 3rd. She has all her employers paperwork to say they expect her back and to perform at their hotels. She also has proof who will be watching her 2 year old son. The question is.... does she have to prove what dates she's coming to visit or have to show proof of being able to purchase an airline ticket?

I understand she has to show x amount of money in the bank to finance part of her journey but since we nor she knows if she will be approved and if so, when, she nor my daughter can purchase an airline ticket.

Steve




Steve, trying to obtain a vistor visa from Jamaica is not easy. You can write a letter adressing for her addressing your invite to your residence here in the USA, but getting a vistor visa in Jamaica is very hard. What we have seen is that they generally don't give the young vistors visa, but if she was 60 or older and could show her attached to Jamaica she probably would get one.

At this time all she can do is try, if she doesn't succeed all she will be out of will be 131.00.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2009-05-29 17:23:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionI-134 Affidavit Questions on Poverty Level?

I was curious of someone could clarify somethings relating to the I-134 Affidavit.

I have read that you need to have 125% of the poverty level. Does this mean I have to have the poverty level PLUS 125% of that level or does it just mean I have to have 25% more of the poverty level? correct
Also, on the website where I found the numbers for the poverty level, it states the number based on how many people in the household. Does this mean I should choose 2 for the amount of people in my family since my fiancee will be moving here, correct

or do I just count myself? I have no kids or other dependents.

The website I found is below, is this the correct numbers?

http://aspe.hhs.gov/...09poverty.shtml

THANKS!
Michael


LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-03-12 07:25:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussioncost
The K3 is no longer being offered as a option for bringing your spouse to the USA,please re-read the guides in refernce to the CR1, The K3 is not being offered to visa applications on or after 02/01/2010. The CR1 is a much better option. The initial cost of filing the I130 application is the same,you will have no need to file the I129 along with this.

Please follow the guide under the guide tab above.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-04-12 22:03:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionNon-Impediment Form & Father's name not on BC

Thanks, so should I also not worry that his father's name is not on his birth certificate. Forgive me if I'm anxious but we've been together 5 years, married 2 and have a 3 year old so I can't bear anything holding us up any longer...



Do not worry if there is no fathers name on your husbands BC. They have seen this many times before.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-04-14 17:51:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionNon-Impediment Form & Father's name not on BC
A CR1 does not need a non-impediment form. Relax
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-04-14 14:21:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionCo-Sponsor for K-1 Visa in Manila Embassy?

Well, I keep the records of who paid me and how much they paid me, but unfortunately I didn't report them this year. I only reported the w-2 and 1099's i received.
Is it too late to adjust my tax return for this year? I realize the deadline for taxes was April 15, but is there something i can do to re-file?
I'm sorry if i am asking stupid questions...but this is all new to me.
Thank you for your help.



No it is not too late to adjust, you can adjust taxes 7 years back. I would advise that you seek the help of an accountant, since you don't have a good understanding of the tax laws. The cost of an good accountant can save you many $$$$$.

Good luck...
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-04-21 23:34:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionCo-Sponsor for K-1 Visa in Manila Embassy?
Mr. Ben, you need to learn the rules of what it means to be self employed, if you intend to be self-employed. I think there is a dummies book on how to be self employed.. true ..true. I am not being funny.

....^^^ agree with all that has been stated above.

Edited by LIFE'SJOURNEY, 21 April 2010 - 11:17 PM.

LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-04-21 23:14:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionCo-Sponsor for K-1 Visa in Manila Embassy?

Well legally i didn't have to report my income and neither did the people hiring me...If you don't make over $600 in 1 year from someone who employs you, they don't have to report the income. And me being an Independent Contractor, I worked many different jobs throughout the year for different people. Only the people that i made $600 or more from reported my income. I work a lot of 1 day jobs for anything between $100/day and $650/day depending on the job.

I was thinking about flying to the Embassy in Manila and meeting my fiance there and i would plead my case and provide them with the other documents i stated in my original post. Any thoughts?
Thank you!




You are wrong, you are an indepedent contractor, by law you are required to report all income earned to I.R.S. If you try to make this same case to the I.R.S, you would lose.

The companies that employed you may not be required to report your earnings for tax purpose, but you are required to report and pay taxes on all incomed earned over a certain dollar amount. Those companies should have issued you a 1099 showing income that was paid out to you, they do not have deduct federal or states states, that would have been your responsibility. Any accounant will tell you the same thing, the consular office may require you to adjust your income taxe papers to reflect the correct amount if you want then to use those numbers. Think about this, and what this may mean to you.

Edited by LIFE'SJOURNEY, 21 April 2010 - 10:13 PM.

LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-04-21 22:11:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionNon impediment form?
What is the non impediment form and how do you obtain this?

Post on non impediment form http://www.visajourn...ent-in-jamaica/
I am getting a little antsy over here. I received my fiance's case number from the NVC March 4th. I contacted the embassy in jamaica via email to notify them of my fiance's mailing address. I did not want their forms to get lost. The consular officer then "emailed" the forms that my fiance needed to fill out. He submitted those forms by hand to the embassy on 3/22/10, to date we have not heard from the embassy, nor do they have a record of its receipt.

Does anyone out there have any idea how long it takes to obtain an interview date from the embassy once they have their required documents?

Packet information Post http://www.visajourn...-34-in-jamaica/

Medical Information Post http://www.visajourn...6
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-04-20 19:17:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionStarting the process with a Work Visa

An H1-B visa costs a company time and money. Sorry to say, but will be more cost-beneficial for THEM for you to remain in Canada. If you two are serious, have her come to Canada, get married in Canada, then SHE file an I-130 petition for a CR-1 visa in USA after she's returned to Canada. Months later, once you have CR-1 Visa in hand, you can cross the border and within 2 weeks have an SSN card, and get working again with that same company.



Are you'll for real, the OP has stated 50 times, he wasn't intrested in a Marriage visa and every post keeps telling him how to go that route.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-05-05 20:52:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionNot sure what to do about this.....
IN the medical exam they will ask about the number of births the SO have had. They will know from a medical exam that the OP has given birth, so she should not lie about this. If the baby is given up for adoption, then there will be no need to list the child on the 156 form. Because the parent will have given up ALL legal rights to child upon putting the child up for adoption.

Now, if by saying she will be giving the child up for adoption as in leaving the child with a relative, then that is a different elephant of a different color.

Edited by LIFE'SJOURNEY, 15 May 2010 - 09:34 AM.

LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-05-15 09:32:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionNot sure what to do about this.....
They may question the validity and seriousness of your relationship, since there will be this white elephant issue that occurred within the timeframe inwhich you'll were supposed to be engaged and committed to each other.

So in a few words, YES this will be a BIG FLAG for the CO.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-05-15 03:26:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionQuestion regarding Affidavid of Support
All questions ahve been answered on this post. http://www.visajourn...9
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-05-30 12:24:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussioni-134
Frabra, I will try to answer your questions and some you may not have asked.



what if, my US citezen fiancee is under welfare application as food stamps, and insunrance and her dad want to be our sponsor?
Answer: Her dad can be the co-sponsor, the USC(financee) will always be the sponsor. What that means is that both parties will have to submit a I-134 form with all required documentaions.

If the USC didn't file taxes, then they must submit the form with an explantion as why they didn't file any taxes. Everything must be TRUE.

what the sponsor should write to the form, my fiancee could lost this benefits or there is no trouble with the k1 application?

Answer: Your financee could lose her benfits once she is married. Since I don't know the particulars about her case, my statement is a could lose benefits. The benefits are based on her present situation, therefore once you becomes her husband most cases find that it is the husband responsibility and obligation to support the family. If the USC doesnot submit her change in martial status to the agency that is giving her these benefits she could be consider to be committing FRAUD.
So all parties involve need to think long and hard about what the change of staus will be doing to her present status.

which documents her dad need to provide for our k1 petition?

Answer: Answered in Question #1.

thanks for answers and advices, hope somebody could help.

I answered them for you, but you may not like the answers.

Edited by LIFE'SJOURNEY, 30 May 2010 - 09:04 AM.

LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-05-30 09:01:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionI have a lot of doubts before filing a K-1 Visa for my fiance...Please help!
They will know he was here, how will you explain how the two of you met, and then your time-line for the relationship will be questioned.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-06-09 10:19:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionNovember 1, 2010 interview scheduled....
Congratulations
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-10-06 09:29:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussionhusband visit

i have been married 8 months,that was the last time i saw my husband.I had a Consultation with a lawyer because i wanted to know if i was on the right road(track),i was advice by the lawyer that my husband need to come and visit me at least 2 times before my interview and if it is possible he should accompany me to the interview. i was told that my visa could denied because of the small about of visits,it send off a red flag that we are doing a business wedding.

Has anyone here been through this?
what was your result?
should i follow the lawyer advice?



Kaydene, I
can tell you without a doubt that Kingston will be looking at your visit pattern. They will request to see the petitioner passport to validate if the couple is participating in a real marriage. If you'll have a valid reason as to why you'll did not visit each other, then this will need to be explained at the interview.

Edited by LIFE'SJOURNEY, 13 January 2011 - 11:08 AM.

LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2011-01-13 11:07:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionEmbassy Fees

Is the information on paying the fee at the NCB gonna be in one of the packets sent to my fiance?



Yes, it will be in package 3.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2011-01-14 16:22:00
Mexico, Latin & South AmericaJamaica NON-Immigrant Vistor Visa - infro
Visa qualifications, expiration and validity


Wednesday, April 14, 2010 Visa qualifications, expiration and validity


Wednesday, April 14, 2010 http://www.jamaicaob...embassy_7528571



THIS week's column features a combination of several readers' general questions about non-immigrant visas, including:

* What are the qualifications for a non-immigrant, visitor's visa?

* In cases where visas are due to expire in a next few months, when should applicants reapply for a visa?

* Where can applicants apply for a visa?

* How can visa holders know if their visas are still valid?

Visa qualifications


In general, individuals applying for a visa for the first time must demonstrate to the interviewing officer that they overcome the concept of immigrant intent, meaning that they have strong enough connections to their home country to cause them to return after a temporary stay in the United States. These connections can be through one's employment, family, church, or other social groups. The consular officers make decisions based on their level of confidence in the applicant, the information provided, and the stated travel plans.

In a renewal application, the interview process is very similar to a first-time application. In renewal cases, consular officers consider several things:

1. Use of a previous visa: This includes looking at frequency of travel, duration of trips, and at how travel patterns fit into an applicant's overall social and economic situation. There are no exact measurements of good use of a visa and the goal is simply to ensure that travel makes sense. If applicants are unable to explain the frequency or duration of their trips to the United States, the interviewing officer will consider this as part of the renewal application. Before renewing a visa, officers weigh whether an applicant will use a new visa in accordance with the terms outlined in US immigration law.

2. Current and former situation: This includes looking at an applicant's economic, familial, and social situation when the applicant was previously issued a visa and comparing it to the current situation. Consular officers understand that situations can change, so they look at numerous factors in each application. Illness, family issues, or employment status can prevent a person from travelling on a visa. Applicants should explain this information to officers, so they understand why there hasn't been recent travel. Also, in these situations consular officers need to understand how a situation has changed since the previous application, and whether changes affect the applicant's qualifications for a visa.

3. Immigration and criminal history: This includes checking for any immigration or criminal violations, which may have taken place within the validity period of the previous visa. Consular officers have access to a wide variety of information, and encourage all applicants to be forthcoming on their applications, specifically when answering questions about previous arrests or deportations. Officers seek to understand when a crime was committed, the severity of the crime, and the possibility of a repeat crime in the US or elsewhere if they issue a visa.

Both first-time and renewal applicants must show that they will abide by the terms of a visa and that they are not intending to immigrate to the United States. Officers are trained to evaluate applications and conduct interviews with a view to understanding individual situations and determining if applicants qualify for a visa. Individuals applying to renew their visas should bring their current and former passports to the interview and be prepared to discuss their use of previous visas, their current situation, and any criminal or immigration issues.

When to apply


At this time, the current wait period for scheduling an appointment for a non-immigrant visa interview is between a few days and a month, depending on the type of visa. Applicants can apply to renew their visas at any time. If a visa is valid through September 2010, for example, and the applicant plans to travel in August, he or she may choose to schedule an appointment now to ensure that the appointment takes place and the application is processed before your the intended travel.

Information on scheduling an interview, as well as the necessary forms and documents, are listed on the website at: http://kingston.usem..._services.html. Please remember that all applicants are now required to complete the online non-immigrant visa application, the DS-160, prior to their interviews. If, after trying, applicants are unable to upload a photo in their applications, they should complete the remainder of the form and bring passport-sized photos to their interviews.

Where to apply


Applicants do not necessarily have to apply for a visa in Jamaica. US Embassy consular officers in Jamaica are in the best position to evaluate Jamaican applicants and they give priority to Jamaican applicants, while officers of other US embassies concentrate on the populations of the countries to which they are assigned. However, if an applicant has lived in another country for some time, he or she may find it more convenient and appropriate to apply at the US embassy in that country.

Visa validity


In recent weeks, the US Embassy has received numerous queries from individuals, who want to "check on the status" of their visas. The Embassy Consular Section usually issues 10-year tourist visas, which are valid until the date of expiration, unless they are misused or the visa holder takes an action that changes his or her qualifications. The Consular Section must provide cancellation notice to visa holders who are no longer considered eligible for visas or have misused them. In many cases, consular officials are able to make appointments with the visa holder to discuss the cancellation and to ensure that they have the correct information and that the visa holder understands the reasons for the decision. Because consular officers follow this process, they do not respond to queries about current visas. Unless a visa holder has abused his or her visa, there is no need to verify its validity.

The American Embassy staff in Kingston will answer any questions you may have regarding US consular law, regulations and/or practice. In order to respect the privacy of applicants, the embassy will not answer questions on specific personal applications.

Send your questions to: editorial@jamaicaobserver.com and we will send them to the embassy.





THIS week's column features a combination of several readers' general questions about non-immigrant visas, including:

* What are the qualifications for a non-immigrant, visitor's visa?

* In cases where visas are due to expire in a next few months, when should applicants reapply for a visa?

* Where can applicants apply for a visa?

* How can visa holders know if their visas are still valid?

Visa qualifications


In general, individuals applying for a visa for the first time must demonstrate to the interviewing officer that they overcome the concept of immigrant intent, meaning that they have strong enough connections to their home country to cause them to return after a temporary stay in the United States. These connections can be through one's employment, family, church, or other social groups. The consular officers make decisions based on their level of confidence in the applicant, the information provided, and the stated travel plans.

In a renewal application, the interview process is very similar to a first-time application. In renewal cases, consular officers consider several things:

1. Use of a previous visa: This includes looking at frequency of travel, duration of trips, and at how travel patterns fit into an applicant's overall social and economic situation. There are no exact measurements of good use of a visa and the goal is simply to ensure that travel makes sense. If applicants are unable to explain the frequency or duration of their trips to the United States, the interviewing officer will consider this as part of the renewal application. Before renewing a visa, officers weigh whether an applicant will use a new visa in accordance with the terms outlined in US immigration law.

2. Current and former situation: This includes looking at an applicant's economic, familial, and social situation when the applicant was previously issued a visa and comparing it to the current situation. Consular officers understand that situations can change, so they look at numerous factors in each application. Illness, family issues, or employment status can prevent a person from travelling on a visa. Applicants should explain this information to officers, so they understand why there hasn't been recent travel. Also, in these situations consular officers need to understand how a situation has changed since the previous application, and whether changes affect the applicant's qualifications for a visa.

3. Immigration and criminal history: This includes checking for any immigration or criminal violations, which may have taken place within the validity period of the previous visa. Consular officers have access to a wide variety of information, and encourage all applicants to be forthcoming on their applications, specifically when answering questions about previous arrests or deportations. Officers seek to understand when a crime was committed, the severity of the crime, and the possibility of a repeat crime in the US or elsewhere if they issue a visa.

Both first-time and renewal applicants must show that they will abide by the terms of a visa and that they are not intending to immigrate to the United States. Officers are trained to evaluate applications and conduct interviews with a view to understanding individual situations and determining if applicants qualify for a visa. Individuals applying to renew their visas should bring their current and former passports to the interview and be prepared to discuss their use of previous visas, their current situation, and any criminal or immigration issues.

When to apply


At this time, the current wait period for scheduling an appointment for a non-immigrant visa interview is between a few days and a month, depending on the type of visa. Applicants can apply to renew their visas at any time. If a visa is valid through September 2010, for example, and the applicant plans to travel in August, he or she may choose to schedule an appointment now to ensure that the appointment takes place and the application is processed before your the intended travel.

Information on scheduling an interview, as well as the necessary forms and documents, are listed on the website at: http://kingston.usem..._services.html. Please remember that all applicants are now required to complete the online non-immigrant visa application, the DS-160, prior to their interviews. If, after trying, applicants are unable to upload a photo in their applications, they should complete the remainder of the form and bring passport-sized photos to their interviews.

Where to apply


Applicants do not necessarily have to apply for a visa in Jamaica. US Embassy consular officers in Jamaica are in the best position to evaluate Jamaican applicants and they give priority to Jamaican applicants, while officers of other US embassies concentrate on the populations of the countries to which they are assigned. However, if an applicant has lived in another country for some time, he or she may find it more convenient and appropriate to apply at the US embassy in that country.

Visa validity


In recent weeks, the US Embassy has received numerous queries from individuals, who want to "check on the status" of their visas. The Embassy Consular Section usually issues 10-year tourist visas, which are valid until the date of expiration, unless they are misused or the visa holder takes an action that changes his or her qualifications. The Consular Section must provide cancellation notice to visa holders who are no longer considered eligible for visas or have misused them. In many cases, consular officials are able to make appointments with the visa holder to discuss the cancellation and to ensure that they have the correct information and that the visa holder understands the reasons for the decision. Because consular officers follow this process, they do not respond to queries about current visas. Unless a visa holder has abused his or her visa, there is no need to verify its validity.

The American Embassy staff in Kingston will answer any questions you may have regarding US consular law, regulations and/or practice. In order to respect the privacy of applicants, the embassy will not answer questions on specific personal applications.

Send your questions to: editorial@jamaicaobserver.com and we will send them to the embassy.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-04-14 11:49:00
Mexico, Latin & South AmericaOVER A MONTH STILL NO K1 VISA IN HAND!

Sorry to hear about the long delay your experiencing. We had our interview on a Tuesday & it was ready for pick up by that Friday.
Unfortunately, due to JA not extriditing Dudus "the real big man in Tivoli Gardens", the US was said to be revoking visas of prominent Jamaicans. They also had stated they were not going to be issuing US visas. Now that in part or whole could be the reason for hold up. Quite frankly, it shouldn't b/c Dudus has no affiliation w/ur hubby to be. Plus your hubby was approved & waiting to get visa in hand. I recommend that you 2 keep trying to contact someone @ Embassy. But right now it appears the hold up may be due to the Americans, particularly NY, wanting Dudus. I wish they would go hard for Bin Laden.
Anyhow, best of luck & I hope he get visa SOON.



This is only hysterica that has been created by the Jamaica press. Since they are a K1, finger print and name check doesn't get completed until after the interview. It just sounds as if they have gotten stuck in AP check.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-04-13 18:04:00
Mexico, Latin & South AmericaOVER A MONTH STILL NO K1 VISA IN HAND!
THIS SOUNDS LIKE YOU'LL ARE IN THE DREADED AP PROCESS. All you'll can do now is wait it out, it could be 3 weeks or it could be 90 days. But haven't seen it to take as long in Kingston. AP is finger print and name check, with the FBI. Visa can't be printed until a ok comes back.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-04-13 18:01:00
Mexico, Latin & South AmericaCR1 Visa in Jamaica

I am getting married on October 15 in Portmore JA. when I file the petition for the visa and when he gets approved (god hoping) does he have to get a new social security number or can he keep the one he has, its still valid. The SS# he presently have will be his number for life time. There will be no need to obtain a new number, but he will need to obtain a new card after he receives the GC.

He was in the states on a work visa for 2 years (thats how I met him) do they take into account his previous stay here on whether or not to approve it. It doen't hurt his chance.

I really don't want to pay some lawyer its not in the budget so I really need as much first hand expereince on this as possible


Congratulations and good luck.
Read the guides on the CR1 visa.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-04-22 18:30:00
Mexico, Latin & South AmericaYardies a home and a farrin, Part 25!
RIP Shrewgal (F) (F)
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-04-21 16:58:00
Mexico, Latin & South AmericaYardies a home and a farrin, Part 25!

Hope everyone is having a good day!

Mine sucks - I need some advice...

so, we got our interview - May 5. You think we'd be happy? Hubby hasnt been himself for a few days - he gets quiet and I know things are rough right now for him down there, but when he gets quiet and distant its so hurtful.

Now, I told him about the interview- he didnt even sound excited really- he says he called the clinic in Mobay today and that they took his info "and would call him back" hes at work now, and something inside me just WONDERS if maybe he is getting cold feet now?

I dont know what to do... give him his space? I feel like :crying: - we get to this point and he's acting so strange. Anyone else ever go thru this??I dunno.. thanks for letting me vent.



Put your self in his shoes and see the picture from his side of the world. He is getting close to leaving, and he has only dreamed about this, the possibility(sp) was so far off. Give him space, he leaving a life time of friends and family behind, and coming to the un-known.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-04-13 16:24:00
Mexico, Latin & South AmericaYardies a home and a farrin, Part 25!
Okay Ladies The Jamaican Observer did a article on WHY MEN LIE


http://www.jamaicaob...men-lie_7519566
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-04-13 16:20:00
Mexico, Latin & South AmericaYardies a home and a farrin, Part 25!
The reason why they can't stop outgoing calls to JA, is because you only have to dial a 1, not the 011 for international calls. The JA calls are really going thru the same process as your local long distance calls. They don't tell you this, the JA calls really are nothing more than local long distance calls being charge at an international rate.
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-04-09 08:49:00
Mexico, Latin & South AmericaYardies a home and a farrin, Part 25!
http://www.jamaica-s...estar/20100401/

The visas of five of Jamaica's top entertainers have been revoked, THE WEEKEND STAR understands. According to information coming from the Fraud Prevention Arm of the United States Embassy in Kingston, the visas of Bounty Killer, Mavado, Beenie Man, Adonia and selector Ricky Trooper are in the process of being cancelled.

When contacted for confirmation last night, Minister of National Security, Senator Dwight Nelson, relayed through his communications department that "he has no such information."

However, a document obtained by THE WEEKEND STAR stated that: "The Embassy of the United States in Kingston, Jamaica, is in the process of revoking the visas of the following citizens of Jamaica. The people mentioned here currently hold a US visa that we have not yet been able to physically cancel. Do not allow these passengers to board any flights bound for the United States in reliance on this visa."


revoked

The document then names Moses Anthony Davis (Beenie Man) two visas; Garfield Augustus McKoy (Ricky Trooper), two visas; Sheldon Ricardo Aitana Lawrence, (Aidonia); David Brooks (Mavado), two visas; and Rodney Basil Price (Bounty Killer) two visas, as those persons whose visas are in the process of being revoked
LIFE'SJOURNEYFemaleJamaica2010-04-02 08:52:00