ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresEarly March filer still not approved
How can a person check to see if their case has been touched? Can someone post a link here? Thanks in advance and my internet time is very limited so I can't read for hours to find it. Thanks again
Loving NenengMalePhilippines2008-07-17 21:44:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAwaiting NVC response to emailed 3032
Hello I have read where some are paying their fees online and could someone post a link so I can do that also? Sorry for asking but I have read much but limited internet time to find everything. Sorry I tried to make new topic but it says I must read Terms of Service but there is no place for me to mark that I have read them? thanks in advance
Loving NenengMalePhilippines2008-09-10 23:33:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedurescrazy e-mail after paying aos fee
QUOTE (nimche @ Sep 11 2008, 11:36 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Loving Neneng @ Sep 11 2008, 08:08 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Richard and Aida @ Sep 11 2008, 07:44 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Brian&Mel @ Sep 11 2008, 06:23 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
You don't have to worry about it. The online status will change after few days.

Good luck! rose.gif



THANK YOU


Hello I just contacted NVC by phone to get IIN number to be able to pay fees online and the lady said she did not have it and that they sent the bill for $400 for the Immigrant Visa to my wifes address in the Philippines. What is best for me to do while here in the USA? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks


Couple things, first fill out your profile and if it is possible make your timeline as your signature.
I see that you have PAID your AOS fee? and probably you sent them a moneyorder? When you receive your DS-3032 and AOS package your IIN was on the cover sheet. I don't know why you calimed that you don't have it. IIN is Invoice Identificatioin Number, look at the bottom of that sheet and you will find it.

As soon as they have your DS-3032 form entered into their system, they will generate the IV fee Bill and you will be able to pay it online and print out the barcode cover sheet and send it over with IV package(DS-230 and supporting docs.)

Good Luck



Sorry but I have just reread my I-797, Notice of Action green paper from Dept of Homeland Security and the white paper from Immigration telling me enclosed AOS fee bill bearing the applicant's case number and barcode; and...but that was the end of the 1. paragraph. There is no IIN at the bottom of the sheet. I also filled out the timeline form but not sure how to make it my signature but tomorrow when more time is available I will try to get it posted. And yes I paid the $70 fee with Certified check by mail. Thanks again I really appreciate the help but again there is no number. Maybe mine was left off for some reason?
Loving NenengMalePhilippines2008-09-11 23:26:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedurescrazy e-mail after paying aos fee
QUOTE (Richard and Aida @ Sep 11 2008, 07:44 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Brian&Mel @ Sep 11 2008, 06:23 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
You don't have to worry about it. The online status will change after few days.

Good luck! rose.gif



THANK YOU


Hello I just contacted NVC by phone to get IIN number to be able to pay fees online and the lady said she did not have it and that they sent the bill for $400 for the Immigrant Visa to my wifes address in the Philippines. What is best for me to do while here in the USA? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks
Loving NenengMalePhilippines2008-09-11 22:08:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresIIN number on the AOS fee bill
QUOTE (MsZ @ Sep 12 2008, 10:01 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I'm the American as well and while they've been really nice on the phone, their new policy is not to give out the IIN and I suspect that fewer and fewer maverics will disobey this new rule over time. There's really no incentive for them to risk reprimand at work for something they know is generated promptly and put in the mail promptly.

I expect to have my invoice by the end of next week. So, I'm waiting. Also, this fee doesn't hold up much of anything since it is the other paperwork that takes more time to deal with. My affidavit of support is straightforward, too.



Good luck on finding the IIN on your bill to pay $70 fee for I-864 form as I do not have the number anywhere in my papers they sent and they refuse to give me the number by phone. Maybe the number will be in the packet she just received in Manila for the IV $400 fee to be paid. I will know more when I recieve the 5 pages by fax here in the USA. Thanks for the information.
Loving NenengMalePhilippines2008-09-12 09:29:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCSC lost I-130

I'm sorry, I suggest the USCitizen Spouse call into USCIS, get a Tier 2 Human™, an ISO, and inquire for casefile status.

Somethings really amiss at that congressman's office, that Immigration Liason Staffer is much confused.


I'm sorry, are you referring to my story on this? You think the Immigration Specialist helping me is confused?
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-01-12 05:13:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCSC lost I-130

I have to know the name of your congressman and the State you live in please. He/She must be amazing to get a response like this. He must be very respected and well known and I hope his is around me if I need anything.


I live in Indiana and its Congressman Todd Young's office that is helping me.
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-01-11 05:19:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCSC lost I-130
My Congressman's office informed me today that the CSC is unable to locate my application, two weeks shy of my six month wait. Does anyone have any information on what happens from here? If I need to resubmit, will we have to wait another five months?? Would love any information any of you can provide. Thanks!!

Edited by TraciB, 10 January 2012 - 07:07 PM.

TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-01-10 19:03:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI-130 Processing Times

Based on what I was reading here I went out to do some investigating of my own with sources whom I trust to have accurate readings on the situation with CSC.

I spoke with my visa service rep and another immigration services guy and they both said that CSC was taking 5 months or a few days over that. They both had active clients that just received their NOA2 so that is what they are using for their point of reference.

they said this happens every year, that the CSC gets bogged down with the huge influx of petitions in NOV-DEC and in-conjunction with the holidays they end up slowing down. They will recover. I was told by both to relax, it will come.


I was told by CSC yesterday that they are presently working on June 16, 2011. 40 days before my July 26, 2011 receipt date. Already, we are more than a "few days" over five months. CSC also told my congressman's office that they are "unable to locate" my file. I was very patient for their "five month" processing time. Each day we don't hear back from them as to whether they have located my file or not puts my processing times further and further behind. I have faith in my sources, CSC needs to adjust their timeline, its six months at least....not five.
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-01-12 20:26:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI-130 Processing Times

Did you see a post yesterday that said CSC lost her petition and that is what her hold up is?

She had her congressman send an inquiry to csc and that is what he found out!!!!

I know csc slows down during and after the winter holidays and I am sure they will pick up now. ANd they will kick out 100000 approvals by the end of the month.

Here is TracyB thread

http://www.visajourn..._1#entry5095280


Hey Togetherforever, that was me. I called, got a real person and inquired what date they were presently working on, I was told June 16, 2011. So that are processing way slower than five months. I am letting my Congressman's office follow up on the "lost" application and have now also inquired with an immigration attorney...
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-01-11 16:37:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI-130 Processing Times
Per USCIS on 1/11/2012, June 16, 2011 is the date that is being processed right now. The "five month" processing time is incorrect. If I am not mistaken, someone here posted weeks ago that they were processing the same date....it's all #######!
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-01-11 15:44:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCSC

182 :( and I still haven't heard anything on my expedite request -__-


Have you tried contacting your Congressman or Senator??
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-01-16 20:04:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCSC

The real difficulty is that for those of us whose spouse isn't from a VWP country, we have to prove to a VO who doesn't give a ####### and just wants you to go away that they'll return to their home country. Given that it is more or less impossible to do that when you're coming to visit your husband/wife, trying for a visitor visa while married to a USC is pointless.

People from VWP countries can at least fly over here and roll the dice that the people at the point of entry won't even ask about the visa in progress or why they're there. Even if they do, I cannot help but think that the pressure to let someone in who is standing at the threshold after flying over here is far far higher than what it is on a VO sitting behind a window waiting to go to lunch while thinking of a way to say no. Given the proclivity for VOs to say no to visitor visas to people like us in the first place, it makes it damned easy when there is a spouse in the US to use as a denial reason, no?

Just to add more suck, once you say "I do" your chances of ever getting a visitor visa go to zero.. even if you've got family members which will die before they ever meet your wife... fun, no?

No, I'm not bitter at all. Why do you ask? :crying::angry::ranting::protest::cry:


Ok, clarification please, VWP (Visa Waiver Program?) and VO is??? I believe Belgium is a country with the Visa Waiver but from what I have read it is dicey for my husband to come here while deeply embedded in the immigration process so this is why I go there. Am I incorrect in thinking this???
TraciBFemaleBelgium2011-12-28 13:51:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCSC

yes, it will be changed! and if you asked for an e-mail or sms... you will get it.

Patience! I had to learn patience...


Patience is becoming a bore...now I want results!
TraciBFemaleBelgium2011-12-28 08:35:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCSC

Yeah, remember, those are just estimates based off VJ members' timelines who filled them out. There's still all the VJ members who don't update their timelines, plus all of the people not on VJ.


So true, sigh.
TraciBFemaleBelgium2011-12-27 16:43:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCSC

The longest part of NVC is just waiting for the case number to be assigned. For the last few months, it's been taking around 3-4 weeks to get it. Once you have the case number though, the remaining time spent in NVC is mostly up to you to send in packages (and sending them in without mistakes).



I don't remember to be honest. But my case was approved at the end of January and my husband sent the application at the end of August.


I just wish there was some rhyme or reason to it all. We watch the processing timelines and according to those, they are working on August 27, 2011 so a month past us.
TraciBFemaleBelgium2011-12-27 16:30:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCSC

That happened last year as well. It seems there's an influx of applications in the late spring/summer so there's many more cases to deal with at USCIS, thus the slowdown.


So last year, was there a huge amount processed at the beginning of the year?
TraciBFemaleBelgium2011-12-27 16:26:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCSC

my 5 month mark wait, was exactly 5 months...but that was just the easy part for me :( NVC is so slow!


No, please don't tell me that. I can only hope that NVC is faster than USCIS has been....
TraciBFemaleBelgium2011-12-27 16:24:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCSC

I feel your pain. Today is our 5 month mark and it can be frustrating to see that some VJ users are getting approved so fast while others are waiting 5 months and beyond. Hopefully we will fly through the NVC process. I have already gathered all the documents they will ask for so we won't be adding to the wait. Hang in there, our day will come soon.


Have you contacted your Senator or Congressman yet? I was in touch with both about two weeks ago since the holidays were so close. The Immigration Specialist for my Senator's office was very kind and contacted USCIS on my behalf, since we were still in the five month window they wouldn't do anything. I am to email the Senator's Immigration Specialist on January 2nd and she is going to request that our file be pulled. I can only hope that this does something to speed up the process.

I watch Igor's charts and really it seems that anything after June of 2011 has been slow going, not really sure why that is. Can anyone shed some light on this??

Any words of advice would be greatly appreciated.
TraciBFemaleBelgium2011-12-27 16:18:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCSC
I think we have long passed an officer who was fast. Timely would have been appreciated (within the 5 month timeline) but now we are even past that. Ah well, Senator's office will contact them January 2nd, hopefully that will help some. Thanks!
TraciBFemaleBelgium2011-12-27 14:14:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCSC

Yeah, sorry Posted Image Just hope your case is on the desk of an officer who is fast ;)


TraciBFemaleBelgium2011-12-27 14:12:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCSC

You have to remember that cases land on officer's desks and the officers process cases at their own pace. So if there's one slow officer and one fast officer, then it's "normal" for not all applications to be approved from the summer, and some that have been approved from November.


Yes, I understand all this but it doesn't make it any easier with the waiting...unfortunately.
TraciBFemaleBelgium2011-12-27 12:39:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCSC
I don't understand how it is that applications are being approved from November 2011 when June and July 2011 haven't all been approved. Everything says applications are handled in the order they are received, so how is this happenening? We hit our five month mark yesterday (December 26, 2011) and still nothing.

Sorry, just venting my frustration.
TraciBFemaleBelgium2011-12-27 09:49:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresRFE received Feb 16, 2012

I dunno - you talked with someone at DHS?

Please call back into USCIS National Call Center (# in the NOA-1 letter)
and ask for an ISO - EXPLAIN ALL TO THE ISO.

It may be the ISO, once it's explained to him/her, will press on, making a note to the adjudicator that SC marriage certificates are not handled in this manner,

then the adjudicator will read the note, and the RFE will get closed on it's own - no further postal mail trail from you.

It's worth a try, today.

Good Luck !


Oh really?? I will definately try that. In the meantime, Charleston called me and has my letter ready and is sending out to me today! Yay! But I will follow your suggestion and see if that works, if not, I will fed ex the letter when i receive it next week. Thanks!!!
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-02-17 14:39:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresRFE received Feb 16, 2012

Sounds like you did everything the right way. As I tell my wife, do not get nervous about something until it is time to get nervous. Wait a bit and see what happens first. Just follow up with them. Your request seems very straight forward and simple.


Thanks. Makes me very nervous that this is all in someone elses hands. Of course I want to be able to submit the documentation and get it back to USCIS ASAP...and this is all going to slow it down. I will try and stay calm. You give sound advice.
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-02-17 10:38:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresRFE received Feb 16, 2012
I received the hard copy of my RFE yesterday, at first I thought it was an easy fix but after speaking with the courts in South Carolina and then speaking to the Department of Homeland Security, I am not sure how easy it is going to be. This is what the RFE said:

"The marriage certificate submitted does not show evidence of being civilly registered with the county clerk. The document must show the page and book numbers in which the event was recorded."

At first look, it seems to be an easy fix with a phone call to the Marriage License office in Charleston. Unfortunately, Charleston, SC does not record their marriages in this way. They are recorded in the computer and the signature of the judge on the certificate is their way of showing it registered.

I put in a call to the Department of Homeland Security to explain this situation, the very kind gentleman suggested I try to get it in writing from Charleston that this is their procedure and submit that with my RFE.

I have spoken with the Clerk in Charleston again, and she asked me to fax a letter explaining what I needed and she would have the judge look it over and see if he was willing to fulfill my request.

Now I am concerned, what if he isn't willing?? What if he takes forever to do so?? Does anyone out there have any ideas on ways around this or any experience with anything like this??

Your thoughts and suggestions are greatly appreciated!!!

Thanks.
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-02-17 08:38:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCongressman

My husband and I contacted our congressman about 2 weeks ago. They been in contact with us twice. The last call was yesterday. They informed us that CSC said our case was not with anyone and had not been pulled as yet :( :(

Now that I see people with my priority date are now being approved..I am getting worried!!!!!


Keep following up with your Congressman's Immigration Liaison, I stayed in touch with mine about every two weeks, by phone. He was very helpful and very kind. Always better with human contact.
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-02-17 19:10:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNOA2 Question

You seem to not understand a very crucial point here.

In order to "get" your husband "here," he requires an IR/CR-1 SPOUSAL VISA stamped on his passport. This visa is not just "given out" by the American Embassy just because someone accidentally screwed up your application and your NOA2.

Do not think this is a good thing, because it's not. This is a grievous error that can delay your application by months or more. Because your husband is not in the US, and he obviously cannot magically appear here, because he needs a Visa. The only way he can get a Visa is if your case is forwarded to the NVC. But, due to USCIS' error, they will not forward your application to NVC. As it stands today, your husband will never be able to get a Visa, unless you correct this problem.

Call USCIS, escalate the issue, ask to speak with a senior officer and explain your condition in detail. Request that they immediately fix their paperwork and forward your application to the NVC.

Good luck.


The problem or "oversight" is corrected. Your tone really isn't appreciated. I asked a question, is that not what this forum is for? No need to respond so rudely.
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-03-12 08:19:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNOA2 Question

OP, I agree with sulhaq. This is an error by USCIS that unfortunately, you will have to get them to correct.


I spoke with a Supervisor at USCIS yesterday, she said it was an oversight and that she was emailing CSC to forward my petition to NVC. She said it was no big deal since it was caught right away.
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-03-10 08:30:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNOA2 Question

Thsnks! I will do so now.


I just got off the phone with USCIS and am now even more confused than before. If my notice is indicating that the relative is in the USA then my application will not be forwarded to the NVC and I need to file a I-824 blah blah blah. Isn't it just easier to get him here and have him file for an AOS??
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-03-09 14:31:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNOA2 Question

Does he have the spouse visa--accidently placed in his passport?
I think you had better call uscis


Thsnks! I will do so now.
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-03-09 14:22:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNOA2 Question

Is it your receipt number?

Call USCIS. There is an error


Yes, it is my receipt number. It may be an error but is it an error I can use to my advantage? AOS from here would be great instead of wating longer for him to be able to come here.
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-03-09 14:16:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNOA2 Question
I received my NOA2 Hardcopy in the mail today and am a little confused as to what it says:

"The above petition has been approved. The petition indicates that the person for whom you are petitioning is in the United States and will apply for adjustment of status. He or she should contact the local USCIS office to obtain Form I-485 Application for permanent residence. A copy of this notice should be submitted with the application..."

Here is what I am confused about, my husband is not in the states. Does this mean we could get him here and just file Adjustment of Status from here?

Is this what they all say??

Thanks!
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-03-09 13:50:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHas ANYONE filed single on 2011 tax returns and gone to the interview?

Calling the IRS for tax advice is like calling USCIS for immigration advice


In other words...worthless? That's been my experience with both!
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-03-29 19:41:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHas ANYONE filed single on 2011 tax returns and gone to the interview?

If you file a joint return, you are supposed to include your worldwide income, where ever it was earned.


And I did, but then it was excluded, but it still lists on the return.
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-03-29 19:09:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHas ANYONE filed single on 2011 tax returns and gone to the interview?
I worried and worried over this, I just filed taxes and this is how I did it:

I filed married filing jointly, we filled out a W-7 for an ITIN Number, my husband's income was listed on the return but then it was excluded for not being in the USA. We sent the W7 that was filled out by my husband to the tax return and sent it to Austin, Texas.

I haven't received my refund yet so not sure it worked but it made sense to me and a professional did it.

Good Luck!
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-03-29 19:03:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresExpedite Request Approved
Ok, question for anyone who has any experience in expedite request approvals. Due to USCIS error, I fell into the category of being able to request to expedite. I called NVC yesterday and was told that they had heard from the embassy in Belgium and that our request for expedite has been approved.

Now, I understand that NVC sends our file directly to Belgium and the rest is handled from there, does anyone have any experience or information on what to expect timewise or is there steps we can take to try and hurry this along???

Any thoughts are greatly appreciated...
TraciBFemaleBelgium2012-05-24 08:07:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNVC Question

Hey Guys,

If someone would be so kind as to check out the following exert, which I took from the travel.state.gov website, and dumb it down a little (or a lot) for me, I would be ever so grateful.


How Do I Know if My Priority Date Meets the Most Recent Qualifying Date? And What Does That Mean?

If your Priority Date is earlier than the Qualifying Date for your visa class and your foreign state chargeability, your Priority Date meets the most recent Qualifying Date and your petition is ready to begin processing at the NVC. Learn more by reviewing the Visa Bulletin.


I actually found the Visa Bulletin equally as difficult to understand. For background on our process thus far, we are VERY early days, we sent in our petition to the USCIS on the 27th (ish) of July, it was received on the 3rd of August in Chicago, and was approved on the 17th of August. Not being impatient, was really just curious as to the 'normal' process times for the NVC to make their initial contact by mail to the petitioner/beneficiary. Just educating myself. Thanks for reading.


(Kel portion of kelnjohn)



The priority date is the date that you filed your I-130 petition and I believe for the I-129f visa it is the same, but I am not 100% sure about the I-129f (if there is eve a priority date). Not understanding the process at the time I filed, I filed both the I-130 and I-129f. I have now received the NOA2 for both the I-130 and the I-129f. On the NOA2 for the I-130 there is a section listed as PRIORITY DATE and it is the date I originally filed the petition. On my NOA2 for the I-129f there is not a priority date listed. For non-family type visas, there is an allotted number given out for each country and for each type of visa which is where the priority date comes into play. Once the specified number of visas has been given out for a given year, those who applied and are still waiting have to wait until the next year. This does not apply to I-130 visas as those are not limited. I do not think that applies to I-129f's either, but I am not sure on that. The fact that your petition was received and approved in 13 days (if I understood you correctly) is utterly amazing, because it typically takes approximately 5 months give or take to get approved at USCIS. Did you get a NOA1 or a NOA2? If it is the NOA1 that just notifies you that your petition was received. If it is the NOA2 it will tell you if USCIS approved your petition, and if so Congratulations! Best wishes for the rest of your journey.:thumbs:
2HeartsR1FemaleNigeria2012-09-01 15:57:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPolice Background Checks, Birth Certificates, and Vaccinations

STOP: Do not have your spouse pick up a Police Certificate until you have your NVC Case number.

WHY? Because they expire within 3 months. This is the biggest mistake we see fellow filers make over and over again.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Even if you haven't reached the NVC stage, looking ahead at the current month NVC Forums will truly teach you this process fast. Look for your own country of filers and pay special attention to their questions and answers given them since your process will be the same. Remember though, there is a little difference between K1 filers and CR-1/IR-1 filers toward the end of the process. So also pay attention to that information also.

On Page 1 of every monthly NVC Forum, you will find a simple guideline for NVC with frequently asked questions and answers. Copy and paste that info to a Word document (or equivalent) and print it off so you can use it as a, kind of, checklist.

That is what I did and it helped tremendously!


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Now some simple pointers.

ON page one of the monthly NVC forum, you will also find an electronic format of the DS-3032 (This is the form where your spouse assigns an Agent...which will be you). Go ahead and plug in all of your information and save it on your system so it is ready to go when you have your NVC Case Number and Invoice Identification Number (IIN) assigned. Once you have the NVC Case number, you can plug it in, copy and paste it in an email to your spouse…they can clean it up and forward it only the NVC.

If you do not believe your spouse can handle this, start a new email address for them now and do this yourself. NVC will request an email address for both you and your spouse. Make sure your spouse has the user name and password so they can see the information you are getting from NVC and the information you are sending. Once the DS-3032 has been accepted, all of the future email will come to your email address.

Second, complete your Affidavit of Support. Run a Google check and see if you qualify to file an I-864EZ or if you will need the I-864. If you are not sure, ask the forum.

Third, if you have not done so, order your "TAX" transcripts from the IRS. Instructions to do this are on page one of the monthly forum as well . Make sure you do not order an "ACCOUNT" transcripts; this is not the correct form and the NVC will not take it. (I personally made this mistake but caught the discrepancy before time to send in my I-864, thanks to a friend guiding me through the process).

Forth, complete the DS-230 form. Double check the information on it. This documents information should CLOSELY or IDENTICALLY match the form 325A you completed on your spouse/fiancée during the initial phase of the process (I-129F or I-130). The same information is being asked but in a different format.


Fifth, print the completed DS-230. Scan it into a PDF format and attach it to an email to your spouse. Your spouse will then print the completed form on their end and SIGN THE DOCUMENT ON PAGE 2 WITH A BLUE INK PEN ONLY. DO NOT DATE THE FORM (you will date it before you forward the form in the IV package.)

NOTE: Complete the actual DS-3032 form as well and forward the same way as the DS-230 form above. Also, have your spouse sign in blue ink only and do not date. The NVC takes this form in electronic format but it's a fairly new process so cover yourself just in case it is asked for.

Sixth, your spouse will be forwarding all of these forms to you when you send off the I-864. They will need to include the following in the package to you immediately so you will be ready to file the IV petition:

• Long form or Certified Birth Certificate (if they do not have this they need to be getting it now, it does not expire. It Just must be from National Population Commission of Nigeria
• DS-230 Form , signed on page 2 only, DO NOT DATE. (Page 4 is signed in front of the CO during interview and swearing in process.)
• DS-3032, signed in blue ink, not dated.
• Police Certificate (your spouse should obtain a PC as soon as you send off your AOS package…not before.


Lastly, if your spouse has ever lived in another "Country" they will need Police Certificates from every Country they have lived in.

Hope this helps. If you have other questions, let me know.


Thank you for all of the great info and advice. I have just finished creating a word document with the info from the links posted here so I can work on everything and check it off as it is completed. I will be looking at it closer tonight. I have filled in the DS-3032 and have it waiting. Email address was created previously and is already and in use. I already know I can use the I-864EZ, and I am in the process of completing that. I am currently working on filling out and forwarding the DS-3032 and the DS-230 to my spouse.

Do you think it is better to use the IRS transcripts than to just send a photo copy of tax forms filed?

I am not sure what you mean by "Long form or Certified Birth Certificate (if they do not have this they need to be getting it now, it does not expire. It Just must be from National Population Commission of Nigeria" He was born prior to 1979 when birth certificates were registered via computer (per NVC rep), so can he even get a certified birth certificate? And what is a long form? Do you have any information regarding NVC's recommendation to note his was born before 1979 as an explanation for the hand written version (whether it is accurate information)?

Also, I am still learning to maneuver this website. Can you tell me how to add my time line to my posts?

Thank you once again.

STOP: Do not have your spouse pick up a Police Certificate until you have your NVC Case number.

WHY? Because they expire within 3 months. This is the biggest mistake we see fellow filers make over and over again.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Even if you haven't reached the NVC stage, looking ahead at the current month NVC Forums will truly teach you this process fast. Look for your own country of filers and pay special attention to their questions and answers given them since your process will be the same. Remember though, there is a little difference between K1 filers and CR-1/IR-1 filers toward the end of the process. So also pay attention to that information also.

On Page 1 of every monthly NVC Forum, you will find a simple guideline for NVC with frequently asked questions and answers. Copy and paste that info to a Word document (or equivalent) and print it off so you can use it as a, kind of, checklist.

That is what I did and it helped tremendously!


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Now some simple pointers.

ON page one of the monthly NVC forum, you will also find an electronic format of the DS-3032 (This is the form where your spouse assigns an Agent...which will be you). Go ahead and plug in all of your information and save it on your system so it is ready to go when you have your NVC Case Number and Invoice Identification Number (IIN) assigned. Once you have the NVC Case number, you can plug it in, copy and paste it in an email to your spouse…they can clean it up and forward it only the NVC.

If you do not believe your spouse can handle this, start a new email address for them now and do this yourself. NVC will request an email address for both you and your spouse. Make sure your spouse has the user name and password so they can see the information you are getting from NVC and the information you are sending. Once the DS-3032 has been accepted, all of the future email will come to your email address.

Second, complete your Affidavit of Support. Run a Google check and see if you qualify to file an I-864EZ or if you will need the I-864. If you are not sure, ask the forum.

Third, if you have not done so, order your "TAX" transcripts from the IRS. Instructions to do this are on page one of the monthly forum as well . Make sure you do not order an "ACCOUNT" transcripts; this is not the correct form and the NVC will not take it. (I personally made this mistake but caught the discrepancy before time to send in my I-864, thanks to a friend guiding me through the process).

Forth, complete the DS-230 form. Double check the information on it. This documents information should CLOSELY or IDENTICALLY match the form 325A you completed on your spouse/fiancée during the initial phase of the process (I-129F or I-130). The same information is being asked but in a different format.


Fifth, print the completed DS-230. Scan it into a PDF format and attach it to an email to your spouse. Your spouse will then print the completed form on their end and SIGN THE DOCUMENT ON PAGE 2 WITH A BLUE INK PEN ONLY. DO NOT DATE THE FORM (you will date it before you forward the form in the IV package.)

NOTE: Complete the actual DS-3032 form as well and forward the same way as the DS-230 form above. Also, have your spouse sign in blue ink only and do not date. The NVC takes this form in electronic format but it's a fairly new process so cover yourself just in case it is asked for.

Sixth, your spouse will be forwarding all of these forms to you when you send off the I-864. They will need to include the following in the package to you immediately so you will be ready to file the IV petition:

• Long form or Certified Birth Certificate (if they do not have this they need to be getting it now, it does not expire. It Just must be from National Population Commission of Nigeria
• DS-230 Form , signed on page 2 only, DO NOT DATE. (Page 4 is signed in front of the CO during interview and swearing in process.)
• DS-3032, signed in blue ink, not dated.
• Police Certificate (your spouse should obtain a PC as soon as you send off your AOS package…not before.


Lastly, if your spouse has ever lived in another "Country" they will need Police Certificates from every Country they have lived in.

Hope this helps. If you have other questions, let me know.


Thank you for all of the great info and advice. I have just finished creating a word document with the info from the links posted here so I can work on everything and check it off as it is completed. I will be looking at it closer tonight. I have filled in the DS-3032 and have it waiting. Email address was created previously and is already and in use. I already know I can use the I-864EZ, and I am in the process of completing that. I am currently working on filling out and forwarding the DS-3032 and the DS-230 to my spouse.

Do you think it is better to use the IRS transcripts than to just send a photo copy of tax forms filed?

I am not sure what you mean by "Long form or Certified Birth Certificate (if they do not have this they need to be getting it now, it does not expire. It Just must be from National Population Commission of Nigeria" He was born prior to 1979 when birth certificates were registered via computer (per NVC rep), so can he even get a certified birth certificate? And what is a long form? Do you have any information regarding NVC's recommendation to note his was born before 1979 as an explanation for the hand written version (whether it is accurate information)?

Also, I am still learning to maneuver this website. Can you tell me how to add my time line to my posts?

Thank you once again.

STOP: Do not have your spouse pick up a Police Certificate until you have your NVC Case number.

WHY? Because they expire within 3 months. This is the biggest mistake we see fellow filers make over and over again.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Even if you haven't reached the NVC stage, looking ahead at the current month NVC Forums will truly teach you this process fast. Look for your own country of filers and pay special attention to their questions and answers given them since your process will be the same. Remember though, there is a little difference between K1 filers and CR-1/IR-1 filers toward the end of the process. So also pay attention to that information also.

On Page 1 of every monthly NVC Forum, you will find a simple guideline for NVC with frequently asked questions and answers. Copy and paste that info to a Word document (or equivalent) and print it off so you can use it as a, kind of, checklist.

That is what I did and it helped tremendously!


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Now some simple pointers.

ON page one of the monthly NVC forum, you will also find an electronic format of the DS-3032 (This is the form where your spouse assigns an Agent...which will be you). Go ahead and plug in all of your information and save it on your system so it is ready to go when you have your NVC Case Number and Invoice Identification Number (IIN) assigned. Once you have the NVC Case number, you can plug it in, copy and paste it in an email to your spouse…they can clean it up and forward it only the NVC.

If you do not believe your spouse can handle this, start a new email address for them now and do this yourself. NVC will request an email address for both you and your spouse. Make sure your spouse has the user name and password so they can see the information you are getting from NVC and the information you are sending. Once the DS-3032 has been accepted, all of the future email will come to your email address.

Second, complete your Affidavit of Support. Run a Google check and see if you qualify to file an I-864EZ or if you will need the I-864. If you are not sure, ask the forum.

Third, if you have not done so, order your "TAX" transcripts from the IRS. Instructions to do this are on page one of the monthly forum as well . Make sure you do not order an "ACCOUNT" transcripts; this is not the correct form and the NVC will not take it. (I personally made this mistake but caught the discrepancy before time to send in my I-864, thanks to a friend guiding me through the process).

Forth, complete the DS-230 form. Double check the information on it. This documents information should CLOSELY or IDENTICALLY match the form 325A you completed on your spouse/fiancée during the initial phase of the process (I-129F or I-130). The same information is being asked but in a different format.


Fifth, print the completed DS-230. Scan it into a PDF format and attach it to an email to your spouse. Your spouse will then print the completed form on their end and SIGN THE DOCUMENT ON PAGE 2 WITH A BLUE INK PEN ONLY. DO NOT DATE THE FORM (you will date it before you forward the form in the IV package.)

NOTE: Complete the actual DS-3032 form as well and forward the same way as the DS-230 form above. Also, have your spouse sign in blue ink only and do not date. The NVC takes this form in electronic format but it's a fairly new process so cover yourself just in case it is asked for.

Sixth, your spouse will be forwarding all of these forms to you when you send off the I-864. They will need to include the following in the package to you immediately so you will be ready to file the IV petition:

• Long form or Certified Birth Certificate (if they do not have this they need to be getting it now, it does not expire. It Just must be from National Population Commission of Nigeria
• DS-230 Form , signed on page 2 only, DO NOT DATE. (Page 4 is signed in front of the CO during interview and swearing in process.)
• DS-3032, signed in blue ink, not dated.
• Police Certificate (your spouse should obtain a PC as soon as you send off your AOS package…not before.


Lastly, if your spouse has ever lived in another "Country" they will need Police Certificates from every Country they have lived in.

Hope this helps. If you have other questions, let me know.


Thank you for all of the great info and advice. I have just finished creating a word document with the info from the links posted here so I can work on everything and check it off as it is completed. I will be looking at it closer tonight. I have filled in the DS-3032 and have it waiting. Email address was created previously and is already and in use. I already know I can use the I-864EZ, and I am in the process of completing that. I am currently working on filling out and forwarding the DS-3032 and the DS-230 to my spouse.

Do you think it is better to use the IRS transcripts than to just send a photo copy of tax forms filed?

I am not sure what you mean by "Long form or Certified Birth Certificate (if they do not have this they need to be getting it now, it does not expire. It Just must be from National Population Commission of Nigeria" He was born prior to 1979 when birth certificates were registered via computer (per NVC rep), so can he even get a certified birth certificate? And what is a long form? Do you have any information regarding NVC's recommendation to note his was born before 1979 as an explanation for the hand written version (whether it is accurate information)?

Also, I am still learning to maneuver this website. Can you tell me how to add my time line to my posts?

Thank you once again.
2HeartsR1FemaleNigeria2012-08-31 21:54:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPolice Background Checks, Birth Certificates, and Vaccinations

STOP: Do not have your spouse pick up a Police Certificate until you have your NVC Case number.

WHY? Because they expire within 3 months. This is the biggest mistake we see fellow filers make over and over again.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Even if you haven't reached the NVC stage, looking ahead at the current month NVC Forums will truly teach you this process fast. Look for your own country of filers and pay special attention to their questions and answers given them since your process will be the same. Remember though, there is a little difference between K1 filers and CR-1/IR-1 filers toward the end of the process. So also pay attention to that information also.

On Page 1 of every monthly NVC Forum, you will find a simple guideline for NVC with frequently asked questions and answers. Copy and paste that info to a Word document (or equivalent) and print it off so you can use it as a, kind of, checklist.

That is what I did and it helped tremendously!


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Now some simple pointers.

ON page one of the monthly NVC forum, you will also find an electronic format of the DS-3032 (This is the form where your spouse assigns an Agent...which will be you). Go ahead and plug in all of your information and save it on your system so it is ready to go when you have your NVC Case Number and Invoice Identification Number (IIN) assigned. Once you have the NVC Case number, you can plug it in, copy and paste it in an email to your spouse…they can clean it up and forward it only the NVC.

If you do not believe your spouse can handle this, start a new email address for them now and do this yourself. NVC will request an email address for both you and your spouse. Make sure your spouse has the user name and password so they can see the information you are getting from NVC and the information you are sending. Once the DS-3032 has been accepted, all of the future email will come to your email address.

Second, complete your Affidavit of Support. Run a Google check and see if you qualify to file an I-864EZ or if you will need the I-864. If you are not sure, ask the forum.

Third, if you have not done so, order your "TAX" transcripts from the IRS. Instructions to do this are on page one of the monthly forum as well . Make sure you do not order an "ACCOUNT" transcripts; this is not the correct form and the NVC will not take it. (I personally made this mistake but caught the discrepancy before time to send in my I-864, thanks to a friend guiding me through the process).

Forth, complete the DS-230 form. Double check the information on it. This documents information should CLOSELY or IDENTICALLY match the form 325A you completed on your spouse/fiancée during the initial phase of the process (I-129F or I-130). The same information is being asked but in a different format.


Fifth, print the completed DS-230. Scan it into a PDF format and attach it to an email to your spouse. Your spouse will then print the completed form on their end and SIGN THE DOCUMENT ON PAGE 2 WITH A BLUE INK PEN ONLY. DO NOT DATE THE FORM (you will date it before you forward the form in the IV package.)

NOTE: Complete the actual DS-3032 form as well and forward the same way as the DS-230 form above. Also, have your spouse sign in blue ink only and do not date. The NVC takes this form in electronic format but it's a fairly new process so cover yourself just in case it is asked for.

Sixth, your spouse will be forwarding all of these forms to you when you send off the I-864. They will need to include the following in the package to you immediately so you will be ready to file the IV petition:

• Long form or Certified Birth Certificate (if they do not have this they need to be getting it now, it does not expire. It Just must be from National Population Commission of Nigeria
• DS-230 Form , signed on page 2 only, DO NOT DATE. (Page 4 is signed in front of the CO during interview and swearing in process.)
• DS-3032, signed in blue ink, not dated.
• Police Certificate (your spouse should obtain a PC as soon as you send off your AOS package…not before.


Lastly, if your spouse has ever lived in another "Country" they will need Police Certificates from every Country they have lived in.

Hope this helps. If you have other questions, let me know.


Thank you for all of the great info and advise. I have just finished creating a word document with the info from the links posted here so I can work on everything and check it off as it is completed. I will be looking at it closer tonight. I have filled in the DS-3032 and have it waiting. Email address was created previously and is already and in use. I already know I can use the I-864EZ, and I am in the process of completing that. I am currently working on filling out and forwarding the DS-3032 and the DS-230 to my spouse.

Do you think it is better to use the IRS transcripts than to just send a photo copy of tax forms filed?

I am not sure what you mean by "Long form or Certified Birth Certificate (if they do not have this they need to be getting it now, it does not expire. It Just must be from National Population Commission of Nigeria" He was born prior to 1979 when birth certificates were registered via computer (per NVC rep), so can he even get a certified birth certificate? And what is a long form? Do you have any information regarding NVC's recommendation to note his was born before 1979 as an explanation for the hand written version (whether it is accurate information)?

Also, I am still learning to maneuver this website. Can you tell me how to add my time line to my posts?

Thank you once again.
2HeartsR1FemaleNigeria2012-08-31 21:50:00