ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures2 year restriction

Guys you are totally freakin me out...Does that mean i'm not going to be able to see my honey for one more year even if i came from the US almost 5 years ago just because i'm studying in Bulgaria?
Ok,..now i wanna kill myself

Hey Kinzaza,
just wanted to say i really sympathy you...
Why don't you try check with our Embassy about your status for the J1?
They are kind of helpful...
And then you could try checking if Moldova would allow you to get waiver
Everyhting best kinzaza :)
Good luck!

Thank you so much. Does MY government have to grant me a waiver?



I am in a hurry and have not read all the responses here.

Find out fast about your J-1 status. If you have not fulfilled your 2 yr HHR, you need to find out if you would be able to get a waiver. Who considers whether or not to issue you a letter of no-objection (which you need to submit to USCIS) is your sponsor (in my case -- my government).

J-1 waiver takes time. i have a web site with a forum like this but i don't remember it now. i'll get back with you later.

Best of Luck, Kenzaza.
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-03-26 21:10:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures2 year restriction
-P
[/quote]
Yup....dont be confused...I had a 2 yrs HRR because I was an Exchange student for the FSA-FLEX...Freedom Support Act- Future Leaders Exchange Program sponsored by the American Govnt..and i did still get the Visa for Work&Travel Summer Program
[/quote]


Kinzaza, I'm sorry I did't see that you were subject to a 2 yr HRR, too.

Like I said in my above post, you can get a J-1 and come to the US as often as you can (like my colleague as an example), but you are still subject to the HRR and you have to be present in your home country for an accumulation of 2 years to fullfil that requirement.

And while in the US with the HRR, you can't adjust your status unless you petition for a J-1 waiver and are granted. In my case I didn't do it because I knew I wouldn't be able to get a letter of No-objection from my government.
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-03-26 13:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures2 year restriction

I was a former J-1 holder, who is now doing my time in my home country. I departed the US on August 31, 2005, only a few months before your fiancee did. The J-1 restriction is called a "2 year home residency requirement (2 year HRR)" which means you are bound to return to your home country after your graduation (in my case) or whatever you do in the US and are physically present in your home country for a duration of two full years. During this time, you are not allowed (or eligible) to apply for a non-immigrant visa.
...

See I sort of disagree because I came home form being an Exchange student in June 2002. I graduated high school in my home country in May 2003 and went to Bulgaria to pursue college education in August 2003. In April 2004 I was granted another J-1 visa withought the 2 year restriction and I was in the US already in May 2004, 1 month before the restriction ended. After that I have been granted 2 more visas for the summers of 2005&2006. So respectively not only that I didn't physically stay in my home country but I actually got the visas.....


If your J-1 visa does not have the 2 year HRR, then you can receive further visas you are eligible for. I'm confuesed by your post above....did you have a J-1 visa with the 2 year HRR? And you received another J-1 visa while still on the restriction?

It is my understanding that the the 2 yer HRR is placed on those J-1 visa holders that are pursuing studies (usually graduate studies and post-graduate) here in the states that once finished would qualify them as " in high demand" in their home country....or if they receive money from the government to pursue their studies. A lot of times you will see the 2 year HRR on the visas of Medical Students who come to the states to do specialized Fellowhships in their field. Normally an undergraduate student who comes on a summer internship, or summer school does not have the 2 year restriction on their J-1.

-P


I don't think Kinzaza's J-1s had HRR attached to them, so she wasn't subject to the HRR.

And yes, Paula&Minya.. You're correct.. :) :star: :)
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-03-26 13:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures2 year restriction

I was a former J-1 holder, who is now doing my time in my home country. I departed the US on August 31, 2005, only a few months before your fiancee did. The J-1 restriction is called a "2 year home residency requirement (2 year HRR)" which means you are bound to return to your home country after your graduation (in my case) or whatever you do in the US and are physically present in your home country for a duration of two full years. During this time, you are not allowed (or eligible) to apply for a non-immigrant visa.

At this point, a J-1 waiver is not for you. She is already back in her country. You (in fact, your fiancee) could have filed for it long time ago while she was still in the US. If granted, she wouldn't have had to return to Poland.

Right now, like the above post said, you can start filing your petition, but you need to do the math. NOA2 is valid for 4 months, so if you file too early, it may expire before Nov 2005 where your fiancee is eligible for a k-1. In other word, estimate time well so that her interview is still within the 4 months of NOA2 and after November 07. I know I sound kind of confusing, but I hope you understand what I'm trying to say.

We had to wait 19 months to file I-129F. He just mailed out the peition this past Saturday. We estimate that it would take about 4 months to get NOA2 (assuming everything goes well and no delay) which would be around late July or August. I would have about a month to apply and gather all required documents in my home country and then schedule my interview, which has to be on September 2, 2007, or later (i entered the country on Sept 1, 2005).

I hope this helps. Start collecting all required documents you need for the petition. My fiance spent nearly 2 months to get everything they need (hopefully he got everything :) )

You may IM me if you would like to talk more.

Good Luck to both of you. You have come close to when she will be free. :)

Ladywhite (F) (F)

See I sort of disagree because I came home form being an Exchange student in June 2002. I graduated high school in my home country in May 2003 and went to Bulgaria to pursue college education in August 2003. In April 2004 I was granted another J-1 visa withought the 2 year restriction and I was in the US already in May 2004, 1 month before the restriction ended. After that I have been granted 2 more visas for the summers of 2005&2006. So respectively not only that I didn't physically stay in my home country but I actually got the visas.....


Not all J-1s have the HRR attached to them.

With this requirement, during the HRR, you could apply for as many J-1s as you would like to and come to the US (in my case, it'd be as an exchange scholar). You don't have to be physically present in your home country for two straight years. But in order to fullfil your HRR, the accumulation of your presence in your phome country must be 2 full years.

My colleague who is a university professor comes to the US every year to do research on a J-1 (and is subject to HRR). There are people coming to the US on Programs like Work & Travel or to be an Au pair every year on a j-1. I know that Au pairs who hold J-1 are not subject to HRR, but i'm not sure about those who come on the Work and Travel program.

The point is while your HRR has not been fullfiled, even though you are in the US, you can't adjust your status whatsoever.

If you don't have HRR on your back, you could do anything you'd like to. :)
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-03-26 13:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures2 year restriction

I was a former J-1 holder, who is now doing my time in my home country. I departed the US on August 31, 2005, only a few months before your fiancee did. The J-1 restriction is called a "2 year home residency requirement (2 year HRR)" which means you are bound to return to your home country after your graduation (in my case) or whatever you do in the US and are physically present in your home country for a duration of two full years. During this time, you are not allowed (or eligible) to apply for a non-immigrant visa.

At this point, a J-1 waiver is not for you. She is already back in her country. You (in fact, your fiancee) could have filed for it long time ago while she was still in the US. If granted, she wouldn't have had to return to Poland.

Right now, like the above post said, you can start filing your petition, but you need to do the math. NOA2 is valid for 4 months, so if you file too early, it may expire before Nov 2005 where your fiancee is eligible for a k-1. In other word, estimate time well so that her interview is still within the 4 months of NOA2 and after November 07. I know I sound kind of confusing, but I hope you understand what I'm trying to say.

We had to wait 19 months to file I-129F. He just mailed out the peition this past Saturday. We estimate that it would take about 4 months to get NOA2 (assuming everything goes well and no delay) which would be around late July or August. I would have about a month to apply and gather all required documents in my home country and then schedule my interview, which has to be on September 2, 2007, or later (i entered the country on Sept 1, 2005).

I hope this helps. Start collecting all required documents you need for the petition. My fiance spent nearly 2 months to get everything they need (hopefully he got everything :) )

You may IM me if you would like to talk more.

Good Luck to both of you. You have come close to when she will be free. :)

Ladywhite (F) (F)



I forgot to mention that, according to an immigration attorney my fiance consulted, we are allowed to file a petition while I am still on the 2 year HRR. But the visa can't be granted to me if my interview date is still within my HRR.

Good Luck to you both. :)
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-03-26 07:44:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures2 year restriction
I was a former J-1 holder, who is now doing my time in my home country. I departed the US on August 31, 2005, only a few months before your fiancee did. The J-1 restriction is called a "2 year home residency requirement (2 year HRR)" which means you are bound to return to your home country after your graduation (in my case) or whatever you do in the US and are physically present in your home country for a duration of two full years. During this time, you are not allowed (or eligible) to apply for a non-immigrant visa.

At this point, a J-1 waiver is not for you. She is already back in her country. You (in fact, your fiancee) could have filed for it long time ago while she was still in the US. If granted, she wouldn't have had to return to Poland.

Right now, like the above post said, you can start filing your petition, but you need to do the math. NOA2 is valid for 4 months, so if you file too early, it may expire before Nov 2005 where your fiancee is eligible for a k-1. In other word, estimate time well so that her interview is still within the 4 months of NOA2 and after November 07. I know I sound kind of confusing, but I hope you understand what I'm trying to say.

We had to wait 19 months to file I-129F. He just mailed out the peition this past Saturday. We estimate that it would take about 4 months to get NOA2 (assuming everything goes well and no delay) which would be around late July or August. I would have about a month to apply and gather all required documents in my home country and then schedule my interview, which has to be on September 2, 2007, or later (i entered the country on Sept 1, 2005).

I hope this helps. Start collecting all required documents you need for the petition. My fiance spent nearly 2 months to get everything they need (hopefully he got everything :) )

You may IM me if you would like to talk more.

Good Luck to both of you. You have come close to when she will be free. :)

Ladywhite (F) (F)
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-03-26 07:38:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWaiver for "2-year rule"?
USA-Turk:

check out this thread:

http://www.visajourn...mp;#entry799429

(F)
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-07-27 09:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWaiver for "2-year rule"?

Hi all,

After almost 2 months of gathering paperwork, I thought we were ready to mail our petition out this week. But then I found out we may have problems regarding the "2-year rule."

My Turkish fiance went to a Turkish university for undergrad, but did his final year at the Univ. of Texas in 2002-2003 as an exchange student on a J-1 visa. Then he went to Canada for 3 years to get his M.S. degree. He returned to Turkey last fall and is just now finishing up his mandatory military service. We were hoping he'd be able to come here on his K-1 visa around November.

Sansal's J-1 visa says "2 year rule applies." Originally, I thought the "2 year rule" meant he couldn't come back to the U.S. for 2 years after doing his exchange year. So he'd be fine. He left the U.S. 4 years ago and hasn't come back.

But I found out yesterday it means he has to return to Turkey for 2 years. He hasn't even been in Turkey for ONE year since being in the U.S., even counting vacations during grad school.

I heard there was some kind of waiver we can file so he can get his K-1 without staying in Turkey another 1+ years. Does anybody know how to file this or where to find out more about it? Have any of you had experience handling a "2-year rule" situation?

Thanks,

Sharon & Sansal

(No timeline, because we haven't filed yet)


USA-Turk:

this issue was discussed here a while back, have you done a search here to see where those thread are?

i am a former J-1 holder myself. to be brief first, i'd not do a waiver because it would probably take longer to get it (if you do) than the time your fiance has left to fulfill the 2 year rule. Plus, the process would be complicated involving a letter of no objection from whoever granted the scholarship. my fiance and i waited until i had about 4 months left on my '2 year rule' to file I-129f (check out my timeline). the point is that you would have to make sure that your interview at the embassy will be after the 2 year rule is up or the visa can't be granted.

hope this helps. Good luck.

(F)
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-07-27 09:22:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPre-exisiting Social Security Number
I have my SSN and put it on all forms that asked for it. As for the A number, i put "unknown." i think the A number might be on the I-94. but you really don't need to find it to put it in the forms.

Good luck. (F)
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-08-16 11:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureshi everyone...i am new to visajourney...filed my i129 on march 28
QUOTE (geenees @ Aug 24 2007, 09:16 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi everyone...i am new to visajourney...filed my i129 on march 28.
Just wondering if all the march k1 folks have received their noa2 yet?



Hi and Welcome to VJ.

We filed ours on March 24. i am going to have an interview in my home country on Sept 5. where are you in the process?

Good luck. rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-08-24 23:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFinally Together!!!!!!!!!!!
QUOTE (Obelix @ Aug 31 2007, 06:06 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi Everyone
My fiancee is ariving today at 4:50PM EST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! biggrin.gif
I wanted to thank everyone on tis forum for help and support. You guys are incredible!!!!!!!


Congratulations !!!

May you two have a good and happy life together. rose.gif rose.gif rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-08-31 08:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiancee Packet download and expiration date
QUOTE (onofre @ Sep 15 2007, 09:36 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I recieved my fiancee packet and so did my fiancee in Mexico. We have our appointment letter and our trip set up. But since its almost impossible to read the DS-156K and the other DS document. It gives us the option to download the files here: www.ciudadjuarez.usconsulate.gov/wwwhivfm_e.html

on the right upper side it says is valid until 9/30/07. My question is should I still use it or should I wait until its updated (hopefully in the 1st week of october) becuase I dont want to fill that out with the bar codes and later hear it from the consulate stating that it expired and have unnecesary delays.

My trip is scheaduled for Oct 16-19. Any suggestions?


I would go ahead and fill out all the forms. The consulate sent me a packet 3 that contained some of the forms (e.g., DS 157 and DS 156k) that already expired. I used them and they accepted them.

check out this link below to see if they have an updated version posted on their web site. If not, I would just go ahead and use the expired (or nearly expired) forms.

http://travel.state....forms_1342.html

Good luck. rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-09-15 22:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresGood News - Anyone? Anything?
My good news is that i have all the transcripts i need to submit to the CO this coming monday afternoon.

I hope to share with you again soon my next good news when i have the visa in hand.

Good luck to you all.

rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-09-19 08:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAffidavit of Support
QUOTE (danerin @ Oct 1 2007, 07:40 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Do I have to submitt an Affidavit of Support with my I-129F files?

It's not in the instructions, but I have read on other sites that I need to do this.


No, you do not.

After your petition gets approved, you will fill it out, have it notarized, and send it (with other supporting documents --see the quideline here) to your fiance for his interview in his home country.

Good luck rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-10-01 07:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresVisa in hand:)
Congrats !!!! kicking.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-10-01 21:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 visa
I am not from Ukraine, but would like to share.

You do not have to buy a round trip ticket. from Bangkok to Atlanta, I paid $927 for a one way ticket. one way tickets often are more expensive than round trip ones. but in my case, a round trip ticket would have cost me around $ 1600. I don't plan on coming back to Thailand any time soon, so I got a one way ticket.

Good luck. rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-10-01 20:29:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F Question B18 Attachment
Hi:

the space provided on the form is not a lot, so if you want to say more, you could say "please see attached" (like my then-fiance did).

what we said as an answer for this question #18 basically covered these important topics (in a narrative manner on a separate sheet):

- how we met and when (online in 2001 while i was in the US).
- when we started dating (since our first meeting)
- when we became exclusive (since our first meeting)
- when we got engaged (August 2005)
- when he came to thailand to see me (2006 and 2007) and whom he met (my dad and grandmother)

i don't think you need to elaborate much to prevent confusion and more questions. save the details for your fiancee to tell on her interview.

Good luck. rose.gif rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-10-17 09:29:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresGetting married immediately for AOS
QUOTE (Drew and Tik @ Oct 31 2007, 06:16 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I don't see any real problem with having a civil ceremony for the legal aspects and then the ceremony with my family and our friends for the personal aspects, other than our technical marriage anniversary won't be the same day as our wedding day.

What do you guys suggest? Just open to input at this juncture.


Hi Drew:

I don't see any problem, either. I in fact did the same thing you plan on doing. We had a civil ceremony as soon as we could, which was a week after my arrival. My husband wanted me to be on his company's health plan as soon as possible and I wanted to get our marriage certificate as soon as I could to file AOS. Our family wedding will be in Spring.

We take our wedding ceremony day as our wedding anniversary because there are several special occasions to cerebrate already during the last 3 months of the year (e.g., his BD, his son's BD, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and christmas). smile.gif

The plan worked for us and I think it should work for you, too. As far as AOS and EAD are concerned, the sooner you file, the better. smile.gif

Good luck. rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-10-31 07:13:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresquick question
QUOTE (SHIAN @ Nov 28 2007, 07:21 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (jasman0717 @ Nov 28 2007, 06:07 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Why not just let the courier service deliver it to you?


i dont think they have courier service here in US embassy in Bangkok usually according to some i read here on VJ you have to come back the next day at 3 pm to get your passport back


From what I read from another Thai forum, you will be told to come back in a few days to pick up your visa - not the next day as before. For example, if your interview is on Wednesday, you may be told to come pick up your visa on Friday. YOU need to come pick it up yourself.

Good luck with your interview. rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-11-28 07:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresquestion on birth cert & thai name changes
QUOTE (ladywhite @ Nov 30 2007, 03:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
In case you are not aware of, we have a thread here called "Sawasdee" that is for the members with Thai fiance(e)s. You will find a lot of help from there.


Sorry. It's "Sawasdee 2" that I was talking about.
http://www.visajourn...hp?showtopic=78

rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-11-30 14:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresquestion on birth cert & thai name changes
QUOTE (flying @ Nov 30 2007, 02:34 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
As for the BC & name change yes the tough part is her birth town is a small place way up north. So we will see how we can get a copy of both BC & name changes. At least her mom lives there. Although this may all be too much for her too handle. We will see.

Thanks again


All I can think of right now is for her to do the translation herself with help from you and the translation templates from a link I will give to you:
-Have her mother make a copy of her birth certificate and her name change (in Thai language);
-Have her mother mail those copies to you (the express mail will take about 5 days from Thailand to the US and is very expensive -- around 600-700 BTH). Or better yet, if she can find someone there who can scan the BC and name change and then email them to you, that'd save a lot of time and money.

In case you are not aware of, we have a thread here called "Sawasdee" that is for the members with Thai fiance(e)s. You will find a lot of help from there.

Here is the link of the templates: http://www.mfa.go.th/web/804.php
Show it to your fiancee and she should know how to go from there. If help is needed, feel free to PM me.

There is also a Thai forum very similar to VJ but it is all in Thai your fiancee may not know about. This link is for K-1:
http://www.usvisa4th...wforum.php?f=19
She might want to get familiar with the process by studying this forum. smile.gif

I hope she is allowed at the POE a long stay in the US with you.

You're quite welcome. rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-11-30 14:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresquestion on birth cert & thai name changes
QUOTE (flying @ Nov 30 2007, 01:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
As for the process she is just arriving here on a tourist visa. If the port of entry gives her 6 month stamp.......


I doubt that they will give her 6 month stamp, especially if this is her first entry to the US. But, I can be wrong. smile.gif

QUOTE (flying @ Nov 30 2007, 01:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
So your saying we do not really need the BC to get started? Just note the name changes on the applications? I-129F, I-130 & G-325A?

I had asked a company here that does the K1 for a fee & they said we need her BC right off ??

Thanks for any help

From my experience, no, you don't need to submit the beneficiary's BD with your I-129f. But, like I said, some members here didn't submit their fiance(e)s' BCs and got an RFE for it. So, I think it all depends on the person who works on your case.

Just to be safe and to prevent a RFE, submit a COPY of her BC in Thai and also a translation in English (along with her proof of name change in Thai and translation) with your I-129f. Because she is here already, you'd need to have her family get this done for you, though. There are a lot of businesses you can find to help you with the translation thing, most of which are located in the area around the US Embassy in BKK (and many members here who went through this can help you identify one or two places). If your fiancee's family who helps you doesn't live in BKK, I think there should be a place in the area you can find for the translation help. In my case, I did it all myself.

From what I heard, a K-1 takes a little shorter time to get than a K-3 (and less complicated). Compare the two and decide. Good Luck... smile.gif

Hope this helps. rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-11-30 13:13:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresquestion on birth cert & thai name changes
QUOTE (flying @ Nov 29 2007, 04:07 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi all

Can anyone explain how I would fix this for my gf.
Seems a popular thing in Thailand when kids or even adults feel another name would be more lucky they change it.
Well seems my fiance has different name on BC
But all her papers & ID card as well as passport is in the name she uses now.
Where do you go from here?
Also is there anyway to get Birth certificates mailed from Thailand while we are here in US?
She is here on a tourist visa.
Anyone know of a agency that tracks these down & gets them for you for a fee?

Thanks for any help.


I, too, had my name changed when I was 16. All my documents (e.g., ID, passport, House registration) has the new name since.

In my case, I had my name changed at a local district in BKK and have proof of my name change issued by a Local Registrar. Does your fiancee have proof of her name change?

I am not sure where you are in the process. For her interview at the embassy in BKK, just submit a copy of that proof of name change without having to have it translated. But she should get it translated (or does it herself) and bring the copy of proof in Thai language to the US with her for her AOS. She must submit with her AOS package document(s) both in English (translated) and in the native language.

I am not sure why you want her BC mailed to you in the US from Thailand. Again, I am not sure where you are in the process. I didn't submit my BC with I-129F and no RFEs (some people got RFEed for the fiance(e)'s BC, though).

Anyway, I wish you the best of luck. rose.gif

***In Thailand, you don't need a BC to get a passport. You only need your ID Card.

Edited by ladywhite, 30 November 2007 - 07:39 AM.

ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-11-30 07:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresOverstay will we be refused???
QUOTE (spauldingjeffrey @ Jan 21 2008, 07:22 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My fiancee and I forgot to turn in her I-94 card the last time she visited me in the US, and we did not realize it until six months after it expired. So we found out through customs where to send the card and sent CBP a letter explaining that we forgot to return the card and sent pay stubs from her job in canada and a letter from her work and even a copy her lease to prove that she was in Canada for the time after the card expired.

We are about 2 months away from our interview an we are worried that we will be refused because of this. We have saved all the documents that we sent CBP and we will present them at the interview. will this be ok?????


Did CBP send you anything acknowledging your fiancee's departure after you sent in I-94?

At departure, I checked out of the US at San Francisco airport using a machine (had my passport, my two thumbs, and I-94 scanned and everything) but didn't return my I-94. Nearly 2 years later, I realized my I-94 was still attached to my passport. I sent a letter to CBP telling them about the information of my exit and also asking them about my status. They sent me back a letter within 2 weeks saying that my departure was properly recorded and that my departure was on Aug 31, 2005 (the date I exited the US). I took that letter with me to my interview.

I would send them a letter requesting to know if your fiancee's departure has been properly recorded. Better be having it just in case than sorry.

Good Luck.

rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2008-01-21 19:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresThailand Specific Quetsions
QUOTE (shawndoc @ Mar 23 2008, 01:44 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
For #1, how long after going does it take to get the actual report? Do they mail it, or does she have to go back to pick it up?


She doesn't have to come pick it up in person. She can make a request for them to mail the police report to her and pays some fee (about 30+ bahts - I don't remember well).

For the medical thing, she can wait until it's close to her interview to get it done. It takes about 3-4 hours at the hospital and everything will be done, so she doesn't have to wait for the results to be mailed to her or pick up anything later. If I remember correctly (someone please corrects me if I'm worng), the medical thing is valid for 6 months. The closer to the interview, the better since she can use that medical for her AOS here in the States.

For her residence, I would try my best to list all I could remember on a separate sheet of paper. She may need to explain as to why there are some "windows" about her residence. Approximation is fine. It doesn't have to be exact.

Good luck rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2008-03-23 17:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 2
QUOTE (ThaiStyleUSA @ Oct 2 2008, 06:40 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hey Congratulations everyone with the approvals! kicking.gif kicking.gif good.gif good.gif We are finally approved as well after 7 months of Administrative Process/Review. She will be here next week. Finally!!!!!!!!!! kicking.gif kicking.gif kicking.gif kicking.gif I haven't seen her since 15 April 2007. Life is great now. Thanks everyone for the support. Best of luck!! Largon...sawaddee krup.


Congratulations !!!! FINALLY !!!! good.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2008-10-06 15:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 2
QUOTE (Dagobert @ Feb 28 2008, 08:17 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Mark and Anya,

Thanks so much for your quick responses! Was wonderful reading about your experiences, but mine is not so wonderful as this just yet. Huge amounts of elation at the receipt of the NOA2 only to be followed my huge amounts of worry because finding out her family is totally against her moving to the US. I really do not know what to do. Unfortunately I don't have the good fortune of being able to stay or travel to Thailand for large amounts of time. I feel sad over the pressure and lack of support that she has and I can't be there to help her.


I have the NOA2 and have not even opened the envelope yet.

Al


It is a tough situation.

I do not know how you two met and how much your Thai fiancee has shared with her parents her relationship with you . I do not know how well her parents know you or how often they hear about you. If they feel like they do not know you well enough to trust you to take care of their daughter, they will likely do (or say) anything to prevent her from moving away from them.

I also do not know your fiancee. If she is anything like me, my parents would not be able to keep me from marrying you and relocating to the US with you. And in Thai culture, children are supposed to do what parents tell them to (or not do what parents tell them not to). It is ungrateful that children do opposite to what parents tell them to (especially when it comes to marriage). This still hold true in some degree nowadays (I hope).

Another thing: you two look young to me. That contributes to her parents feeling even more concerned about her moving away. She is their daughter, after all. Parents usually feel more protected of and concerned about daughters than sons. At least, it is true to Thai culture anyway.

I think Anya's suggestions are good. I would add, though, that, if you can, make an effort to come to Thailand again, maybe to accompany her to an interview. Try to have a week or so here just to get to know your parents-in-law better and to give them a chance to know you better too. Promise them to do whatever you intend to do when their duaghter becomes your wife. What Mark said should be conveyed to them, too, so that they know what will be happening and should be expected when their daughter is here in the States. Do not give them things that are unrealistic or promises you may not be able to keep. You also want to consider giving your fiancee time after receiving the visa so that she can spend that time fully with her parents. Do not rush her to move to the States once the visa is in hand. She has 6 months to spend and kind of wrap up things with her family before moving away. You may also promise her parents to let her come visit Thailand once she receives her GC.

Your finacee should tell her parents she will call often (let say - every week or twice a week). It is very inexpensive now to call Thailand. I use a pre-paid calling card that costs me only 2.5 cents a minute. My friend in Thailand got a pre-paid calling card available at a BTS station that costs her only 2 bahts a minute to call the US. IF her parents know how to call her (and how easy to make that call), they should at least feel relieved that they can contact here any time they feel like it.

Many Thais think that moving and living abroad is nothing but wonderful just like a fairly tale. So, the most important thing, IMHO, is that your fiancee needs to understand what it is like in reality to move to the US, especially if she has not lived abroad before (I'm not talking about traveling here because it is different). I have read a lot (part of that was on this thread) about some Thai fiancees who later moved here felt so homesick, frustrated because of the language barrier, and bored that they wanted to return to Thaialnd to their families. They missed their families and friends. Here, they stayed home all day, did nothing, and had problem communicating with everyone but their own husbands (this thing eats up your self-confidence). Homesickness seems to be worse if, back in thailand, they were so close to their families (some even still slept in the same bed with their moms until they moved to the US to get married).

If your fiancee understands all this and gets prepapred for it, that should help weaken her being homesick and worries from her family. When you are homesick, you cry and vent to your family, that is not good for them to hear how unhappy you are. The family may say things that make your fiancee feel worse or even make her unsure about her decision to marry you and moving here to the States. If that is the case, things would go down hills and that will in turn affect your marriage.

One more thing I should say: you will need to understand how difficult it will be for you when your fiancee is here. You will be the ONLY one she can rely upon. You will feel like you have a child to look after. Yes, that will happen. Be prepared for this, too, if you have not thought about it. If you happen to feel irritated or annoyed, it will show and it could make things bad (or worse). So, you need to be very understanding of how she feels and very patient with her. She may act differently from how you have known her. It will take time just like Mark said, depending how well adjusted you two are and how fast the AOS process and other things (e.f., SSN, DL) take to finish.

Even though I lived in the US for 8 years before returning to Thailand for 2 years, a few months after I got back to the States,, I still needed some adjustment. Many things felt different (from what they were) to me.

My dad told me a few times after he knew I fell in love and moved in with my American BF (I told him everything) that "if he truly loves you, he will make a sacrifice by moving to Thailand with you." In, reality, it was not that easy or even possible. He couldn't move and actually I wouldn't want him to move since, knowing him thoroughly inside out, I knew he wouldn't be happy living in Thailand. When I returned to Thailand, my dad had already been prepared that I would move to the US again in 2 years. He totally supported me because he saw how unhappy I was living in Thailand after spending 8 years in the US and, expecially being away from him. I am the only daughter, so you can imagine how difficult it must have been for him to let me go. After all, every parent wants to see their children happy. That is the bottom line.

Please do not be discouraged or sad. I am sure this obstacle will be overcome. You two will help each other overcome this obstacle. Don't leave it up to her alone and don't take it all in your hand. It will be worth it in the end. Everyone on this thread can gaurantee you that. smile.gif

I am sure wishing you all the best.

rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2008-02-29 16:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 2
QUOTE (heyx2rr @ Jan 16 2008, 01:25 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi folks! I have good news - we're approved! My fiancee was up before 6am to get ready and catch a taxi to the Embassy for an 8am interview. She turned in her paperwork at 8am, and had a quick interview less than an hour later. The interview consisted of only a few questions - when did we first meet, where do I live in the US, etc. The Visa was approved and she will be able to pick it up on Friday.

Wow... It's been a stressful and exciting ride after submitting our I-129F package at the beginning of June. I can't wait to fly to BKK on the 26th - and to fly back together to the US on the 30th. Fabulous.... Life is good.

- heyx2rr


I know how you feel right now... smile.gif Congratulations !!

Have a safe trip to and from Thailand. Yes, life is so good and we are so blessed...

rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2008-01-16 12:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 2
QUOTE (MarkNAam @ Nov 28 2007, 09:26 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Sawadees Khap!

AAm and I had our AOS interview today...and it was successful. I think our timeline from initial K1 petition -> AOS approval was about 18 months. Just thought I'd post our good news and wish continued good luck to EVERYONE going through Thailand! Looks like interviews are coming up for a lot a people!

Peace to all,
Mark-N-AAm


Congratulations !!!! kicking.gif kicking.gif

rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-11-29 07:32:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 2
QUOTE (rin and john @ Nov 27 2007, 02:41 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
What forms should be send back to the Consulate?

DS-230 Part I (unsigned)
2 passport photos
Copy of passport
Checklist

*Must be mailed to the IVU*
U.S. Embassy Bangkok, Consular Section
Attention: Immigrant Visa Unit
95 Wireless Road
Bangkok 10330
Thailand

John


Here is the checklist:

Attached Files


ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-11-27 13:58:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 2
QUOTE (chivasgeo @ Nov 27 2007, 12:57 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I don't have the current number for the BKK police station one would pick up the certificate at, but perhaps it will be worth it if your fiance give them a call and ask! wink.gif

George


When you are done with the police report process, you will be given the name of the police officer who takes care of your case and his tel number that you can call. So, just go there and get it done as soon as you can. It may take longer than it normally does. In my case, packet 4 arrived about 2 weeks after my packet 3 was sent. My interview date was about 2+ weeks following the arrival of packet 4. You should have plenty of time to get police report and medical done.

rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-11-27 13:06:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 2
I worked in the northeastern part of Thailand at the time and went to BKK to have my police report done. The process took only half an hour and you don't need to make an appointment in advance. I chose to have them express-mail the report to me (by paying 35 BHT extra) instead of going to BKK to pick it up. If I remember it correctly, it took about 2+ weeks for it to arrive.

Good Luck. rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-11-27 12:57:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 2
QUOTE (afterforever @ Nov 15 2007, 11:10 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thanks very much ladywhite!


My pleasure... smile.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-11-16 07:10:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 2
QUOTE (afterforever @ Nov 15 2007, 07:26 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Can anyone tell me how to find out if you petition has reached the embassy in Thailand? I know you can email them but is there a phone number to call? NVC told me today that my petition should be enroute to BKK tomorrow.


You can call but they won't give out any information on the phone. They said (to my then-fiance as he called them) that everything must be done through email.

And when you email them, you have to follow their instructions otherwise they won't answer your inquiries, either. I experienced that myself when I first emailed them.

Below is their response to my first email. So, if you email them, follow their instructions:

The Visa Unit of the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok has received your e-mail inquiry. We regret that we are unable to send a personal reply to each inquiry due to the large volume we receive daily. We have found that many of the inquiries we receive are readily answered by information available on various U.S. Government websites and this response is designed to help you better access that information.

If, following a review of all information provided, you still have an inquiry regarding a specific issue with a visa case pending at the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok, please send an additional email to visasbkk@state.gov with the following information:

· For Immigrant Visa (including Fiancée) Cases: The subject line must contain "2nd IV Inquiry", and the case number (with prefix of BNK or PHP), and the applicant's surname. The first paragraph must include the full name of the petitioner, applicant, the type of visa, Cambodian vs. Thai visa! , and your contact information in the first paragraph. Please note that we are not able to provide routine status updates on the more than 7,000 cases that we handle annually, nor are we able to respond to routine questions regarding whether or not we have received your case from the NVC.
....................

Good luck. rose.gif

Edited by ladywhite, 15 November 2007 - 09:44 PM.

ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-11-15 21:41:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 2
Hi there,

I finally made it back home to my other half yesterday at 10:30 a.m. by Korean air. my POE was Atlanta. you can read my experience through the Immigration and Custom here: http://www.visajourn.../poereviews.php

rose.gif

Ladywhite

QUOTE (MarkNAam @ Oct 4 2007, 08:25 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello All,

Quick note about our good news. AAm was approved (via email notification) for her EAD (work authorization)!

Peace to All, Continued Good Luck on your Visa Journeys!
Mark+AAm



Congratulations !!!! good.gif kicking.gif kicking.gif

rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-10-07 07:44:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 2
QUOTE (feyser @ Sep 6 2007, 01:30 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello everyone,
My fiance and I had a successful interview today!


Congratulations on your visa. I had my interview a day before you and it was unsuccessful. I wrote about it under the consulate forum: http://www.visajourn...showtopic=86453

smile.gif I am happy for you.

rose.gif
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-09-06 07:24:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 2

I was hoping that maybe one of you had a Thai fiancée who really understood the process and could explain to Lek what's coming and what she's going to need to do.


Hi Jeff:

Have your fiancee go to this web board: http://www.usvisa4th...66cd892e38c9013

It is very similar to VJ but in Thai and specifically for Thai fiancees of USCs. She can get familiar with the process by reading all the guides and also post any questions she may have on the web board. The people there are so nice, supportive, and very helpful. Many of them went thourhg this process already -successfully. I am sure she'll learn tons of things from there.

Good Luck. (F)
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-08-17 22:11:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 2

i did not find the CO understanding whatsoever and would hate to risk a denial.


From what i have read others' interview experiences from a Thai forum, the CO wouldn't just flat out deny you right there if you don't have enough required/supporting documents on your interview date. They'd tell you to get what is needed (e.g., all related documents of a co-sponser if a co-sponser is needed) then come back and submit it. and that'd cause delay. Once you submit all they want, they grant you a visa.

(F)
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-08-14 10:21:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 2

Well ladywhite, you and my girl sent your packet 3's back to the embassy on the same day...that would be funny if you and her get interviews on the same day! Let's see what happens...


qbertz7:

have you checked the latest update on the web site yet? i'm curious to know if your girl's interview date is on there. mine is not. :angry: :angry:

just have to wait for another week. **sigh**

(F)
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-08-06 05:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 2

Well ladywhite, you and my girl sent your packet 3's back to the embassy on the same day...that would be funny if you and her get interviews on the same day! Let's see what happens...


qbertz7:

You know what, i have never received P3 from the consulate and am not sure if it will ever arrive. Anyway, i didn't mean to wait for it in the first place. now i look forward to next week's update on the interview schedules on the embassy's web site to see if i'm on there. well, it is possible that your girl and i will have interviews on the same date. :)

has your girl been to the police department for a police certificate yet? i plan to go to Bamrungrad for my physicals when i know my interview date (hopefully next week!).

Good luck.

(F)
ladywhiteFemaleThailand2007-08-03 21:53:00