ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWORRIED
QUOTE (crede @ Dec 29 2009, 04:51 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My fiance recently have I-129F approved. He make mistake on date when we first met. He said first time we met was Feb. 13-20th 2006. We actually first met on Feb. 18-21 2006. I was in Hong Kong for for one month (visiting my sister) prior to meeting him and got back to philippines on Feb. 17th 2006. Will embassy know my exact dates of entry in and out of philippines, if so will this cause a problem at interview time. I know its a big stupid mistake but iam worried that it could cause problem. Should he try to contact us embassy in manila and explain the typo. Im Worried.


Should not be a worry at the stage you are in. When you prepare for your interview you will want to make sure you both have all the dates in your relationship timeline squared away and be sure you both know the same dates and events for that. Congrats and good luck.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2009-12-30 10:39:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK1 problems and resubmitting

Hi, I had filed for the K1 visa last year and even though one of the requirements is that you must see each other in the last 2 years, due to our customs I filed without seeing her in person and presented my case to the USCIS. They then asked for some further evidence of this custom etc and we sent back letters from our religious leaders etc and the USCIS approved it here.

They sent the interview date for my fiance which she went to where they grilled her for like 3 to 4 hours, took all her documents (everything except her passport) and sent her home saying further investigation. She told me that it didn't look good and that the interviewer didn't like her too much.. so I got scared and convinced my parents ( my dad ) who is very strict on our cultural beliefs to let me just see her being that we were there in India at that time so the parents could meet. I met her with my family took pictures just in case they denied my petition. Came back to the states and waited for them to send us a decision but they stalled and sent back the petition to the USCIS for reconsideration after like 3 months. Now recently I just received a letter stating that they can't make a decision because the time frame expired and they were closing this case. RIDICULOUS!!!

Now I'm fustrated because we wasted so much time and my mom who is not well wants to see my wedding here in the states as it is hard for her travel. Anyhow I'm going to re-file my petition for the K1 visa can i use those dates that I was in india and show all the pictures passport etc.. Will they hold the previous filing against me because I convinced my parents to see her? I really want to speed up the process can someone tell me exactly what to show as evidence so I can be approved this time!! And in the meantime how will she be able to get her documents back so that at least she can work.


Not too familiar with the India consulate but in Vietnam one meeting in person isn't going to cut the cake. You'd need multiple visits to convice a CO. Understand the situation with your mom and we wish her and your family the best but you really should take your time and gather/collect suffucient evidence to make a rock solid case. Maybe others with experience in the India consulate can relate on their experience and how many visits they recommend. (And remember, these are all only recommendations based on others experience, ultimatley the decision os yours to follow your own path. Best Wishes to you.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-07 06:33:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhy can't the family attend a wedding on the K1 visa?

By far the best post on this thread. Forget the K visa's unless you and your spouse plan on living abroad, or want to jump through hoops in order for him to gain any kind of normality in the US. CR1 visa has the K visa's beat hands down and is pretty much a no brainer. The K1 IMO is for USC who can only afford one trip abroad to actually meet their future spouse in person. Also CR1 interviews are usually pretty straight forward, unlike the K1 interviews who get the 5th degree when they go in for an interview.


Thats absurd and rediculous. It is each individauls specifics that should guide them not a lame brain comment like that. As far as the number of visits go - it would be foolish for anyone to apply for any type of "relationship" visa after only one visit. That is asking for trouble. My fiancee and I did K-1 and we got no 5th degree at all (just normal questions that were expected - thanks to VJ and its members). The info you get from the USCIS is only enough to fumble into this process. You should submit your posts using an objective opinion not a biased opinion.

Now I would agree with you that the CR-1 in my opinion would be preferential over the K-3 but if your not decided wether to get married in the native country or the USA then either K1 or CR-1 would be my considerations as I evaluate things.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-07 05:59:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhy can't the family attend a wedding on the K1 visa?

Excellent. Yeah, my boyfriend is Irish...so it would be his family; I'm American and living in NYC. It is very important to me that they could attend.

We are struggling to figure out which visa is right for us — K1 or K3? Can anyone recommend a good thought process for this? I have done the research and it's still not clear to me which is the way to go. We are very much in love and have been dating for a couple years (he's back and forth from Ireland), so we know we want to do this. We might be facing a lot of time apart this year as a border officer gave him a hard time at the border last time — this will factor into whether we choose K1 or K3.

Any and all advice is GREATLY appreciated.


K3 you get married in the beneficiaries country, in many cases the petitioners family and friends cannot attend due to costs and schedules
K1 you get married in the US but in many cases the beneficiaries family and or friends cannot attend due to obtaining visas, costs and schedule.

It is a lot of thought and decision making to be done on the part of both of you. We did K1 but had a traditional wedding ceremony in Vietnam for her family (we did not register the marriage therefore the K1) and we will be married when she comes to the US (within 90 days). Some thought that the fact we had a ceremony in Vietnam may cause problems with our K1 (fiancee) visa but it did not. I ex[lained everything very clearly anfd the reasons in our initial I129F Petition.

It all comes down to what works best for the both of you while trying to please as much family as possible too!

I see you have already received a lot of feedback - just remember thaty each individuals case is unique to their circumstances. GOOD LUCK AND BEST WISHES
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-07 05:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhen to get medical appointment
and FYI - we used the IOM in Vietnam. We were able to pick up the results of the exam the next day. Maybe others from your fiance country can advise on appointments times and results.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-09 12:05:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhen to get medical appointment

Should I get my medical appointment BEFORE I send the checklist back to the Embassy? I don't want to get my interview date until I'm sure I can get the medical done beforehand.
How long will I have to wait for the medical appointment compared to the wait until my interview after I send the checklist back?
I also want to make sure I get my police certificate before my interview.

Thanks everyone I don't know what I would do without Vj its soooooo informative.


Does your embassy/consulate require a checklist to be sent? In packet three there is a checklist for your benefit so you have an idea what you need to begin gathering for the interview. You just send the DS-2001 and DS-230 Part 1.
You cannot schedule the medical until you receive packet 4 because you need to take the appointment letter with you to the exam (along with your passport and two visa photos). It is fine if you go for your police certificate in advance - I believe these are good for 1 year but check your particular consulate.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-09 12:02:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBank Statement
Sorry - the PDF wont upload not sure why. You can do a search for packet 4.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-09 08:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBank Statement

Please Help..

Does Bank Statement need to be provide for consulate. If so, how much balance must it show to have in account.

Any help would appreciated.

Thanks

:unsure:


See attachement and read number 17. Also download the I-134 and read what it says. I submitted 6 months of bank statements showing monthly checking account activity - desposts and balances, and savings account. (My savings account didn't have diddley since I used most of it for my visits and ceremony and things. I also included 6 months of pay stubs and the past two years of tax returns - (I did not include W-2's because I forgot but it was no problem in my case)
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-09 08:08:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresLondon embassy- attending visa interview before embassy receives medical exam results
I guess its different everywhere. Inconsistency from consulate to consulate us an issue (as well as within the same consulate).

In Vietnam, if you dont have your medical results they will give a blue slip (221g) and it will have to be submitted when it is complete. Then the case will be further processed. Also here, we were able to pick up the results the next day (if all was well, which it was). We then hand carried them to the interview (just DO NOT OPEN).

Sorry, I know this does not help as your case is in a different country but it does help to further expose the inconsistencies that need to be adressed at some time by our government.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-09 22:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresIf married twice before
Yep - Provide them ALL!!!!!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-13 21:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresToo much evidence?
As important as the pictures, emails and letters are is the time frames that they were taken. Select some from each visit and make sure they are dated to establish the time line. Better to go a little heavy than to light. It is true that you can go light and get the petition approved but many of os believe strongly in "frontloading" because it gets more info into the hands of the officer at the consulate level before the interview. I even emailed our timeline of relationship to the consulate before the interview and the day of the interview the original notarized copy was never even asked for! GOOD LUCK!!!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-13 22:07:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresEnglish Language Requirement for K1
Yes, I agree with the others here. Technically there is no requirement to speak english but as others have said, the ability for the two of you to comunicate is important and some consulates may place a higher value on this. The unfortunate thing is that every consulate and even every consular officer has their own feeling about this. Just do your best to show that the two of you can communicate together and the more understanding of the english language the beneficiary has the better. Remember that the beneficiary will be coming to a place where english is the primary language and at some point along the way they should be learning and able to communicate in this language.

Best of Luck to you.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-22 08:18:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI'm A Newbie: Need K1 Form Help Please
Helpful hint - this is something I did. After I completed a form I had a close friend or family member review it completely. Its always good to have another set of eyes review to see if they see anything that looks incorrect. Also, dont spend to much time at once going over and over the forms. Fill it out then come back after a day and read it again. I found that I made little errors that I didnt notice in the beginning becuase I was straining so much and worrying too much. Always good to come back with a fresh mind and eyes. There are many wonderful people here that are willing to help so keep the questions comeing. If one is not familiar with your particular question or type of file others will certainly follow that can help based on their experiences. Good luck and best wishes!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-20 09:22:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurescompleting the G-325A forms for k-1 visa
I concur. Sign and date each copy. If you download the form G325A and complete the 1st page of the PDF on the pc, the other three pages should fill in automatically. Then just print all the pages and sign and date them.

When I went to VN to visit my fiancee I had her sign and date all four copies for her G325a also. Then when I returned and sent our I129F I had both sets, all with original signatures.

Make three copies of each set of completed and signed documents.
One set you will send with your petition, one set for your file, one set for her file. Do this with EVERYTHING.

Also , create a folder on your pc and save the docs. Good for reference info later.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-26 09:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresShould we get a lawyer?
There are good lawyers and bad lawyers just as in anything else. A good lawyer will do his/her best for you but is only as good as the information you provide. However one thing you must consider is that just because you may hire a lawyer, this does not exempt you from responsibility. It is still your responsibility to review and check all their work. If you are not confident then you should continue to research as much as you can until you reach a comfort level with the process and the paperwork. The assistance of a lawyer will in no way make the process faster. There are other options also. You can hire a lawyer on a consulting basis and have them review your documents. You can also have close family or close friends review them. If you read the guides here on VJ and take your time and ask questions the picture can become clearer and clearer. Also, there are things available here from actual peoples experiences that can help in your considerations. But as always, the ultimate decision and responsibility always falls on the petitioner and the beneficiary. Unless for some reason you have some particular concerns about your case that you may think could be problematic after you educate yourself on the process, there is really no reason why you cannot do it yourself. Just go slow, pay attention to detail and check you work. Include everything required and lots of proofs, pictures, boarding passes, etc etc. You'll find lots of useful info from others who have walked the same path. GOOD LUCK and BEST WISHES
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-26 12:48:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresRFE on last personal meeting
Rather than itinerary you should submit boarding passes. How about pictures. Maybe you can tell is everything you did submit, this will enable readers to see where the voids are.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-25 12:29:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurescopies of g325a again...

Hello!

My fiance has to send the package we put together but he talked to me about now the G325A number of copies changed and they just need one instead four, as all of you know.

I know have been many topics about it but we just want to make sure...

1) It's ok with just one copy of the G325A or they will need 4?
2)Someone tried successfully sending just one copy after USCIS announced that change?

Thank you to everybody once again!

God bless


Bottom line... It is not what anyone here says that matters but what the USCIS says. Always the best practice to send the most recent edition but in this case the previous edition will be accepted.

The latest edition date of G325a is 6/12/09 - it is ONE COPY
As stated in the USCIS website - previous edition is accepted.

Ours were signed and dated in April 09 so they were completed and signed prior to the latest edition release and were required to use that edition.

If you are completing or completed the forms after 6/12/09 you are fine to use the single copy current edition. This is not my opinion but factual information as listed on USCIS. (Either is ok at this time but always check first as information may change).
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-27 10:18:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureschatlog and email for the interview
Not sure the actual number of email and chat I printed but I know it ended up being about 150-200 pages.

Funny thing was, they never looked at a single one! But better to be safe and bring a bunch.

Make sure you organize everything in chronological order. I put them in clear plastic sleeves and tabbed the sleeves by month.

Here is a little more info. I visited in Jan 09. In our package I included pics, borading passes, receipts... then Inserted email and chat from Feb 09 and March 09. Visited in April, pics, boarding passes, receipts, then inserted email and chat from May, June July. Visited in September...., inserted email and chat from Oct and Nov. Visited in Dec - interview - Pink

I think you get the picture. Be very organized. I made two "books" The first contained all our "technical documents", required applications, birth certs, justice record, passports.... with everything in order as requested in the packet.
Copies and Originals!!!!!

The second book had all the proofs of relationship. Pictures, boarding passes, receipts from EVERYTHING (hotels, restaurants, ceremony, flight tickets...), email, chat, engagement ring receipt,

GOOD LUCK!!!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-28 09:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresfilling I-129F

Never had an issue putting "NONE" for a middle initial - not once - your mileage may vary :blush: - (trained in the US military not to leave anything blank - ever...)

I've had issues not putting anything in - for what it's worth.

Instructions for the I-129F

(emphasis mine)



Also having military background (many years ago) and now working in Quality Assurance, I sometimes find it rather amusing that its the things that seem so simple that always end up being the most difficult!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-29 13:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresfilling I-129F

Hello,

This has probably been asked before but I just want to be sure.
I don´t have a middle name..should I write none or n/a?
Thanks to all and have a great day!


I would leave it blank. Your other documents, passport, birth certificate will validate it.

I can imagine some moron entering data and typing in "none" as your middle name. Then you have documents that dont jive. May sound stupid but in the world of strange names and speed entry of data you never know.

If you not comfortable with that, I'd go with N/A - at least theres a slash to catch someones attention!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-28 13:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion regarding touches

Hi guys,

I submitted the I-129F package on 01/21, it was received 01/22, money order was cashed on 01/26

does anyone know wht they might be doing touching my file on 01/27


Wow, only one week to receive the hard copy - thats fast (ours took two weeks to receive). What is the date on the hard copy? My assumption is that the touch on 1/27 was when it was actually received into the "system". When they receive in the mail is one thing, one they actually log it into the "system" is another.

Next step NOA2. Ours was almost exactly three months. Best Wishes!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-29 17:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresquick question

hey everyone, i was just wondering, if consistency of dates counts with the i-129f supporting papers, for example if the fiance letter of intent has a signed date from a month ago, and the i-129f has a date from about a week ago, does it matter or is that bad?

thanks :thumbs:


Should not be a problem my friend. Here is an example from our case. I took my fiancees G325A and Fiancee letter of intent to Vietnam with me during my visit in April 09. We reviewed them together and she signed them. I then brought them back and submitted our I129F in June 09 after I completed and reviewed everything for the whole package including the extra proofs of relationship from that trip. So there was about a two month difference in the dates.

My G325A and finace letter of intent had different dates since I did them here after I got back too. So we had I129F documents spread out over a two month period. We had no issues.

It takes time to gather and compile information, just keep it resonable.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-01 14:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiance's Birth Certificate
Only the petitioners BC for the I129F petition.

For the interview, bring the original, the notarized copy of the translated and copies of both!

Some consulates/embassies do not require the original BC to be translated. In VN we did not have to have the BC translated. Just brought the original and copies of her VN birth certificate (for example).
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-01 16:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSomething Missing in VJ K1 Checklist
2 step process

Step 1
Petitioner (USC) files I129F petition for K-1 fiancee visa.
For this step the beneficiaries birth certificate is not required. You will submit the I-129F, two G325a's (one for the petitioner and one for the beneficiary), Fiancee letters of intent etc as listed in the guide. This is simply you submitting a petition for approval that allows your finacee to apply for the visa given that you both meet the stated requirements.

Step 2
After the petition is approved you will receive NOA2 and then a packet will be sent to the beneficiary. This packet will include instructions and the list of forms and documents for the beneficiary to submit and collect for the interview. At this point the beneficiary is now actually applying for the visa. Both the birth certificate of the petitioner and beneficiary will be requested to be brought to the interview as well as numerous other docs and proofs.

That is a very brief overview. Also -
Step 1 is the easy step - not to difficult to get that approved.
Step 2 is where you need to do more extensive homework and be sure you can provide proof of bonifide relationship.

Keep doing your homework so you fully understand the process. The guides here provide more information than you will find at USCIS website so - HAPPY READING! If you dont understand something dont be afraid to ask but be sure to do some research too.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-02 13:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F Package Lost?

Is it possible that the I-129F Package will be/can be lost during the transfer of package from NVC to Consulate of Foreign Fiancee?

We've been tracking the package and as per the NVC, they sent the approved I-129F Package last January 15, 2010 while the USEM said that it's only an electronic copy and not the hard copy. They said we've wait and call after a couple of weeks which we did and until we call today, we got the same answer. We will call NVC tomorrow as soon as my fiance had the chance to check what is happening to the package and where is it exactly?

We are worried of what is happening now to the transfer of petition? Is there a possibility that it will be lost along the way? If it's lost, how will we gonna know and will they notify us? How long does it usually take for NVC to send the hard copy to the USEM? :wacko:


Here is a sample timeline form our case.
Our NOA2 was dated 9/16/09
I contacted NVC on 9/23/09 and they said our packet was sent to US Consulate in Ho Chi Minh on 9/22/09
My fiancee received packet three from the consulate on 10/19/09

So from the time the NVC sent it till the time my fiancee received her packet was almost one month.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-02 08:34:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresvisa will be denied?
In this instance it is probably best to consider Phillipine specific feedback. We were Vietnam and it would be literally impossible to receive a K-1 fiancee visa with one visit let alone a visit of only three days. Heck two visits would be a gamble. However this is not Vietnam and after reading others post from the PI, I see that some have been sucsessful with mimimal meeting time together.

Obviously the more meetings and time together the better the chances but I can see from some others who have gone through PI that your case is a possibility. Ultimatley the decision must be yours to make. You can go for it or delay it. That decision must be yours.

I send you our best wishes and hope that no matter what you do that things will work out for the best! Remeber this, no matter what, no one can take your love away. In the end, things will work out. Keep your faith and strength!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-01 16:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNeed help in picking a firm to help prepare K1 VISA
Dear friend,

Consider this: The initial I129F is very straight forward. Yes you will have questions, but nothing that cannot be answered here by members of the VJ family. There are so many here who have been through the PI and also every other country imaginable. Everyone is willing to help and point you in the right direction.

Factor #1 - A lawyer can only prepare papers for you with the info you provide. If you have to gather and provide this info you might as well complete the forms yourself.

Factor #2 - Anything a lawyer prepares should be reviewed and approved by you. Ultimatley you are responsible, if they make an error the USCIS or Embassy does not care. Its you paperwork, your case, your life.

The guides here are much more informative than what you will get from the USCIS website and there is lots of experience here to point you in the right direction and answer questions.

As far as interview preparation, there are two things. One is again, preparation of documents. As far as interview preparation, you can search here and get examples of questions that may be asked. Then you can do your own mock interviews to ask questions and answers.

For paperwork preparation, have a close friend or family member review and look for questions. Its always good to have a second set of eyes looking things over. Not really necessary to pay someone to do this for you when you should do it again anyway.

As question arise, post them here. The others who have been through the process will gladly help to answer questions.

One other thing, the process is two phases. 1st is your petition for Fiancee Visa. This is the easy part. Follow the guide and requirements and its pretty easy. Proof that you have met within the past two years, some forms (I129F, G325A's, etc...initial proofs of relationship to prove you have met, Letter of Intent from both fiancee and fiance etc ...)
Pleaase review the guides

Then after that is sent you will receive an NOA1 (just a confirmation that the petition was received). The next comes the NOA2, this is when it really gets fun (and stressful!!!) NOA2 signifies that your petition has been approved.

Agter that your fiancee (the beneficiary) will receive a packet of information with many forms to complete. Up to this time you should be compiling all you information to prove bonifide relationship. You will need to convince the embassy that your relationship is real and factual. The more visits and proof you can provide the better your chance for success.

Everything takes time so be prepared and get prepared. If I were you, I'd take the money you would spend for a lawyer and put it towards tickets for another visit to see your loved one. Prepare carefully and you sill be fine.

While this is just a summary, I hope it helps.

Good Luck and Best Wishes
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-03 08:00:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresConfused on timelines here
I just checked USCIS website for VSC processing times for I129F's. It was last updated on November 30th and the chart indicates 5 months. What that means is that they are currently processing I129F's in less than the expected 5 month period. I know its not much information but thats all that is available.

So to keep it in perspective - worst case should be late March - however I would expect you to see it before that. I looked at another chart and saw that at VSC the volume processed in December dropped pretty dramatically from Sept, Oct and Nov. Probably due to the holidays and vacations and things.

Hang in there friend!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-03 15:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresConfused on timelines here
Yes that would be correct, however you have to be careful. If your looking at the trends here in VJ they are only for members who have joined here and filled in timelines. There are also trends available at USCIS website that encompass actual numbers but not sure how often they update it. On the smaller scale here a few new entires can affect the mean average quite a bit!

As I think I mentioned previously, your time frame sounds to be about right and I would expect you should hear something soon. I struggled with the waiting when ours was being processed so imagine how suprised I was when the "mean" on the USICS was 5 months and we received in three! Hang in there and it will come!

Also the timing at VSC and CSC can be substantially different so make sure you look at the correct charts.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-03 15:18:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresConfused on timelines here

Hello My Name is Dominick and I filed for a K-1 129f with the original NOA dated on October 27, 2009. The way the time-line appears on this page http://www.visajourn...ge=k1historical ,it appears that I am a month late from receiving my NOA2. Am I understanding the situation correct? Is there something that I should be doing? There have been no updates, it has consistently sat at "initial review" for the whole time. So the question are, am I understanding the situation/ time frame wrong? If so, please help me understand it better. If not, and this does indicate a problem, what should I be doing to correct this speedbump? Thank you.


Hey Dominik,

If your NOA1 was Oct 27 - three months would be about Jan 27. With the holidays thrown in I would expect a little longer. My guess is you should see something relatively soon. When we sent ours back in June 09 the stated processing time expected was 5 month but in the end we did receive NOA2 in 3 months. I dont think at this time you should have anything to worry about. If you have not received any RFE's then sit tight a little longer. We all know how much waiting sucks but its part of the process. Keep checking for updates and good luck with your NOA2 and moving forward!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-03 09:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI need help
Do you have or did theyb provide any documents that cleary state a lifetime ban? I had a friend form the PI who had something similar happen many years ago but she only received a 5 year ban (I'm not positive what her age was at the time - she is in her 30's now). I also have a friend from Taiwan who was deported because he was a college student but then quit scool and went to work but never got authorization. It was pretty tramatic but in the end he received a 5 year ban and has since been back.

I dont know all the complete details of the other cases I mentioned but I would try to confirm if they have you blacklisted as a lifetime ban or not.

Best Wishes and Good Luck!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-04 08:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI need help
I dont know much about this topic but I just wanted to say that I am very sorry and hope that things can be worked out for the two of you. We all make mistakes when we are young and what was done is done. After so many years I would hope that some way this can be put behind you so you can be together with that someone special in your life.

Good Luck and Best Wishes!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-03 09:39:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI have a K1 paperwork question, but also need advice - My fiance is giving up hope that we will ever be together :'(
Hi Jenn, payxibka has pointed out good information. There are different requirements from different countries. You'll need to do your research to fully understand what is required from Pakistan. Others may lead you off the correct path. For example - in Vietnam there are two things, a Police Certificate (which would be from countries outside VN where the beneficiary has lived) and a Justice Record (which is from the local jurasdiction within VN where the beneficiary lives). Pakistan may be different so I cannot advise you since I am not really familiar with the requirements there. I guess my point is, be careful what advice you receive and evaluate it based in the available facts. Do your research and seek advice also from those who have been through the same consulate. I hope this helps a little.

Two people may have a commom bond. If that bond is truly love, the two shall endure. We are all tested throughout our lives, our love, our faith, our strength. The strength of those who endure shall never be broken.

Good Luck and Best Wishes
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-27 08:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresgetting k-1 visa

hey everyone, I was wondering about something and would like to know if this has happened to any of you. I was talking with a friend of mine who brought his wife through the K-1 visa, and what he said sounded to good to be true, he said that he had sent in all the paperwork in January of 09 and that his wife was in the US by the middle of May of 09. I know the USCIS website says the usual processing time for the I-129f is 5 months, but is it possible that he actually got her here in 5 1/2 months? I mean has that happened to others before too? :blink:


Wooow down folks and wait a minute. The K-1 is a fiancee visa - not for wife. In the case of K-1 you petition for K-1 finacee visa then if approved the beneficiary applys for visa.

Our example - I129F sent June 19 2009, Visa approved December 15 2009. NOA1 to NOA2 was 3 months, NOA2 to packet 3 was about 1 month, Packet 3 to packet 4 was about 1 month and interview was about 1 month after receipt of packet 4 = total 6 months. This is just our example. Things vary from service center to service center and consulate to consulate.

In your comment above you say your friend brough wife through K-1 - this is not possible. Maybe not what you meant?
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-05 14:53:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG-325A

I am filling the G-325A typing it electronically and i would like to know if teher is anyone havng problems to fill some questions as not enough space.
Do i need to use a separate sheet like I-129F form?
Best regards,


Make sure you check it after you print it to see if everything printed properly.

If something does not fit you may hand write it or,

If there is still not enough space for the information required, write into the space (see G325A supplement)
On a separate sheet - on the top put G325A Supplement for (Your Name)
Then type the heading of the box you are refering to
Then type the information required for that box.
Attach the suplement to the G325A
Hope thatv makes sense.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-05 14:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresUsing Notary to prove we were together
We didn't notarize our Letters of Intent to Marry. I created the documents and took them with me when I went to visit Vietnam. We both signed and dated them and then I returned to the US and submitted them with our I129F. Worked fine for us and we had no problems or issues with these letters at this stage. When we got to the Consulate level for the interview I created and submitted a Reaffirmation of Intent to Marry and had it notarized, I then emailed it to the consulate before the interview and took the original notarized letter with me so she had it at the interview (they never asked for the original).
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-18 11:17:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNational Visa Center
In many cases the NVC will not send any notification of forwarding your case.

We never received any notification from the NVC so I called them and then they told me the date they sent our packet to the US Consulate. Never received anything in the mail. If you call make sure you have your case number from your NOA2.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-11 12:39:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion about I-134 and DS-230

I'm going for my SO's interview on March 2nd (Woohooo!!), but I have a question about the I-134. I can't do my taxes for FY 2009, because I am waiting for tax information from a Trust from my grandparents (and no I am not a trust fund baby, it's not a whole lot of money trust me). I have a letter from the law office that handles the trust stating that they owe me this paper work and when they expext it to be ready by, some time in March. I have my 3 previous tax years and w-2's including this year's. Will I have any problems with the I-134?


For the DS-230, my SO has lost contact with her father some time ago and cannot locate him. What do you do about the current address on the form? Can you put unknown or something of the sorts?

Thanks!



Gabriel



The previous three years tax doucments is excellent. Also provide a Letter of Employment from your current employer. It is also recommended to provide your most recent 6 months of pay stubs and bank statements. I included a cover letter with a statement related to the attached documents and had it notarized.

If you read through posts regarding the I-134 I think you'll find that the items I mentioned are the "standard parctice" for most. You won't get penalized for suppling more than they state, however JUST enough in many cases is NOT enough.

Not sure about the DS-230 question about the father. If there is nobody anywhere, no relatives or anyone that can lend info as to his whereabouts I guess you would have no option but to list - UNKNOWN. If that was the case that is exactly how I would enter it. Not N/A or NONE but UNKNOWN.

Don't know if it would be beneficial to create a notarized document stating those facts or not. Hopefully someone will have some advice on that based on their experience.

Good Luck on your journey.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-11 13:07:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhere is requirement for proof of relationship?
You should provide at least the minimum documents required by the UCSIC to satisfy what is stated to be provided.

Look at this from another perspective, while you are correct that emails can be "created" and photos can be "doctored" etc ... doing so would be providing fradulent information. Anyone who would do this is clearly in voilation of the law.

These are standard types of accepted proof that are accepted. Dont overthink the process.

Please dont take what I said above the wrong way - I understand what you are saying and know you have no intention of doing those things. Just making the point that these are things that are accepted means of proof to the USCIS for approval of a petition.

Boarding passes dont show you were togehter but they can confirm you were there at the time photos were taken.

I agree that the notarized letter signed by both of you shows the both of you in the same place at the same time and its a great idea.

I guess my point is - dont overthink the I129F petition process. Send in the "normal proofs" they expect and you'll be fine. Its the easiest part of the days ahead and quite simple to get through provided you send what they require and expect to see.

Good Luck on your journey!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-10 07:58:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAPPROVED FOR THE 2ND TIME
QUOTE (feelinglucky @ Sep 22 2009, 02:28 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I came home from work late tonight and got my approval notice in the mail. As you can imagine all the emotion im going thru. I also received a Notice of Decison on my previous petition that was sent back last June too. The notice was dated Sept. 16 stating that my petition has already expired, and that I am able to file another. My new approval notice dated Sept. 17 stated that my new approved petition will be forward directly to the consulate. It does not mention anything about going to NVC first,like my first petition. I did notice both petition were touched the same day. I assuming they had reviewed my first petition along with my new petition, and approved the new one. I had attached a rebutal to the first petition along with my new one, hoping to get my old one reaffirmed. But I guess the first one expired so they approved the new one. My question is has anyone had a second approval notice that was forwarded directly to the consulate and bypass NVC????


good.gif I just received my NOA2 yesterday. It also says that the petition will be forwarded to the consulate in HCMC and nothing about the NVC. This is a little puzzling becuase I thought it went to the NVC. I have read and read and thought I was familiar with the process but still confused. Anyway the good news is that they are approved!!! Still work to do but were getting closer! Good luck and best wishes. (It's almost funny because I just returned from 2.5 weeks in Nha Trang with Doan and just as I return I receive this!! Ia was not expecting for another month becuae process times have been behind!!! Very happy and excited!!!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2009-09-22 06:31:00