ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresManipulate Layover Time for K-1 Entry

I know JFK well. Connecting times can be brutal. You need more than 2 hours. Four would be a minimum to be safe. As others pointed out, she needs to clear immigration, get her papers, then baggage, then customs, and there is no way you can be there. You will first see her coming out of the secure area with a ton of baggage. I do not know what airline she is flying on but I would bet she will arrive in the main international terminal, but may have to go to another terminal to pick up the connecting flight to NC. That is not difficult, but for a person not familiar with JFK, it can be very daunting. You must be there for her. Period.

Now a suggestion. I suspect you both will want to be "back home" as soon as possible, but have you considered taking your time doing this? She will be arriving in NY, one of the greatest cities in the world ( I am a New Yorker :) ) so why not take a day or two to see this city? The ride back to NC passes our Capital, and can be a great time to talk in the car while driving through some beautiful countryside. When will she have the chance to do this again?



:thumbs::thumbs:
Now that is a great idea, gotta give ya 2 thumbs up an that one. I didn't even think about adding in a day or so of site seeing in the Big Apple, OP might as well since he's there with his fiancee, I think she would enjoy that.

That would save a trip back (and money) to NYC. Except for taking her back to Manhattan in December to see the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center and to experience NYC during the holidays. Huh, no disrespect to New Yorkers, NYC is a great city, but to me the only time I like to go there is during the holidays...the only times New Yorkers seem to lighten up a bite.

Oh but the idea of driving back, that is a long drive back to NC. Although I've done it many times when I only had 72 or a 96 hours for the round trip. But overall a good idea to stay and see NYC.
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-02-08 12:12:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresManipulate Layover Time for K-1 Entry

Awww... really... I guess I'll be her bag boy for connecting flights.

Just out of curiosity. When I was flying and I had to show ID I showed them my Veterans ID card and they didn't accept it saying it wasn't valid.

I told them "Didn't you know the VA is part of the government?" Then no light bulbs came on.

Now that I am at the POE, is there anything that I should bring with me to help along the process if they have any questions.
I would think my passport for one... does anyone else have any suggestions?

I just don't want to travel that far and forget something important.


Nothing you can do for your fiancee or help her while she is processing, she will be in a secure area and as Pushbrk stated, you will not see her until she clears the customs area. They will be the last hurdle she needs to clear.

Just take a jacket for her, she will be going from tropical oven heat to cool March NC weather.
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-02-08 02:59:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresManipulate Layover Time for K-1 Entry

Oh thanks for the processing times link. It helped out great. I will just do a one way to JFK and then when I make her plane ticket, I will make mines.
It will only cost an extra 100 dollars for me to go see her and bring her back with me, but after paying all these immigration fees. 100 dollars just seems like pocket change.

Also, meeting her at the POE will be better since America works a little different than the Philippines. It will throw her off seeing organization. LOL

If I am not mistaking usually when you switch from International to Domestic then you have to carry your own bags. Air lines haven't been the best of support when it comes to making traveling easy.
.so when i am there I can grab her bags and hold it for her while she is being interrogated.


Pushbrk is correct, I'll add, you won't even be able to get close to that area, that is a secure area.
But you can be a nice guy and carry her bags after she is turned loose by the gatekeepers.

Glad that link helps.
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-02-08 02:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresManipulate Layover Time for K-1 Entry

Factor in late departure from Manila or connecting city. Are you sure she won't land first in Honolulu or Guam?

My personal recommendation is that if her POE is JFK and her destination is RDU, that you meet her at JFK and drive or take the connecting flight together. If that's not practical, have her arrive as early in the day as practical, with at least a 4 hour layover to something other than the last flight to RDU that night.


No buying a round trip from RDU to Manila and back with the idea she'll just take the return leg. Do your research well and unless she's an experienced traveler with excellent English skills, don't leave her to make that connection on her own.



Well said!
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-02-08 02:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresManipulate Layover Time for K-1 Entry

I was thinking about it and I think that you are implying me flying to JFK to meet her there.

I think that is the best thing to do. Especially, POE and first time in United States.

I think i will meet her there and then fly back to North Carolina with her so that there are no issues. You have to take at least two stops to where I live and it will be hard for her.
So, yeah.. your right.. Didn't really think about flying up there.


That would be a very good idea OP, you know what a challenge it is to reach your destination. Now throw in the fact that you're totally new to hauling yourself several thousand nautical miles to an unfamiliar place...that can be quite intimidating.

Besides, I think your fiancee would be thrilled to share the last leg of her trip with you.
You might even earn a few extra points in the 'he's so thoughtful and caring category.'

Take a jacket with you when you meet her at JFK, March is still cool for us but cold for a Pinay.

Edited by Leatherneck, 08 February 2012 - 02:32 AM.

LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-02-08 02:27:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresManipulate Layover Time for K-1 Entry
OP, here is a link that might be of use to you. You can get a look at the CBP flight processing times/wait times
to get a ball park idea as to the efficiency of getting inbound passengers cleared through customs.
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-02-08 02:18:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresManipulate Layover Time for K-1 Entry
In addition to that, has your fiancee every traveled internationally before? Airports for a first time traveler can be very intimidating and confusing, which can add to a delay.
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-02-08 02:00:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresManipulate Layover Time for K-1 Entry
That 2 hours seems kind of tight for JFK.

Factor in possible long lines at immigration, flight delays due to weather approaching New York-then trying to clear customs-then she needs to haul her bag to the new gate to check-in for the connecting flight-then stand in line to get re-screened by the wonderful folks of TSA.
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-02-08 01:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresIs visa approved or not?
Your case is in AP, when a consular officer has finished reviewing your case - your visa will be delivered to you via 2GO.

There is nothing you can do but wait - no amount of stress or worry will speed up that review.
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-04-13 02:38:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresIS IT REALLY NECESSARY?
OP, you've been given some valuable advice regarding references to 'wife,' and/or 'husband.' After you got this advice.

THANK YOU VERY MUCH and GODBLESS!!! i really, really miss my wife... T_T((though we are still not married) I hope you don't refer to your fiancée as your "wife" when you are at your medical, at your Embassy interview, at the CFO seminar, or at your POE. Also, I hope you and your fiancée did not refer to each other as "husband" and "wife" in your emails and your chats which were included in the original petition or which you are going to submit at your Embassy interview. This could cause big trouble.


You declared this (it only takes one time or one reference to raise the brow of a sharp CO, then your goose is cooked)

i just remembered, we refer to each other as "husband and wife" in our evidences...but most of it are like "soon to be husband...or soon to be wife"...we noted it clearly...and didnt the USCIS background checks the petitioner??? my fiancee is absolutely not married and so am I (i can prove it with my CENOMAR)


and this.

i really wish to be with her soon so i can help her...it hurts me to think she gets tired and burdens all the bills all by herself...i dont want my wife to be stressed thats why i want to be with her ASAP... :( i want to do everything i can to make him feel that im a good husband...


If you can so casually utter those words here, it means you are very accustomed to doing so, and what one is accustomed to doing can be done with ease and without thought. During your interview would be a very bad time to slip up and have "wife" roll off your tongue. Stop using "wife/husband" now so we don't have to read about your visa denial later.

In America we have the idiom, "Loose lips sink ships."

Edited by Leatherneck, 05 May 2012 - 05:15 PM.

LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-05-05 17:12:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhat are the DS forms needed to filled out in K1 visa?
Here for your reading pleasure.
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-05-09 18:05:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresindeerment
No, Gary is not telling you that your visa won't be approved -- if a CO notices the use of "hubby," "wife" or similar terms related to one's spouse, you very well could get a real grilling about being married. What he is saying is beneficiaries have been denied a fiance(e) visa for using "husband" or "wife" in their correspondence/emails. If denied -- then your option would be to actually get married and submit an I-130 petition so you could apply for a spousal visa -- or you could jump head first through hoops trying to prove that you aren't really married.

All you can do now is wait, but be prepared to deal with the issue at the interview, now that you know it very well could be an issue.

ETA: Jim I was writing my reply -- you pulled the trigger as I was doing so, therefore the similar tone.

Edited by Leatherneck, 06 May 2012 - 12:48 AM.

LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-05-06 00:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresindeerment
Hope is not a good strategy in the immigration process -- being prepared is. Heed the advice of Kathryn and be prepared to explain yourself during the interview, (or the grilling you might get) so let the people mentioned by Kathryn know now that you might need statements from them in the future regarding your civil status.

What might slip past USCIS might not slip past a sharp CO in Manila.

Edited by Leatherneck, 05 May 2012 - 10:37 PM.

LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-05-05 22:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresmarriage in the us for k1
The options for marriage in the U.S. are numerous -- in Las Vegas, you don't even have to get out of the car to get married or you can get married while flying over the city in a helicopter and you'd be as legally married as married could get. No church is required as a venue.
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-05-09 17:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPetition for the alien fiancee's child

Thanks so much!


You're welcome.
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-05-31 04:33:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPetition for the alien fiancee's child

Hi Leatherneck, i have a question, just to ensure that i am doing the right process, if the child was included in the 129F approved petition, and was included on ds 156k,will follow later, am i now ready to apply for k2? after compiling all the required documents, like medical, payment, etc...?same process with k1?right?i would appreciate your response, thank you so much..


Yes, you're ready and can start the process for your K2 at your convenience. The process is similar to the K1 in some respects, but keep in mind, your K2 must obtain a visa within 1 year after your K1 was issued. If not, the child will not be eligible for a K2, a different visa is available in that case.
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-05-30 16:11:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPetition for the alien fiancee's child

Thanks a lot leatherneck for the response, the DS-156K form is to be submitted during filling of the I-129F petition? or during the application of the visa at US Embassy consulate in Manila? Thanks



You bet!

The DS-Forms (156, 156K and 157) should be filled out online by you and in your processing at the time of your interview at USEM. You do not worry about the DS forms until after you have an approved I-129F petition. Click here, all of the k1/k2 documents you'll need for the interview are listed there.
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-05-30 15:26:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPetition for the alien fiancee's child

1. Your child will be listed on the 129F under question #13.

2. Question #5 on form DS-156 156K -- you have to list your child(ren) and answer the question if your child "Will Follow You" (later) or "Will Accompany You" (now). That is how the government will know, you will tell them on the forms.

K1 forms


Corrected, that "K' makes a difference.
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-05-30 07:39:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPetition for the alien fiancee's child
1. Your child will be listed on the 129F under question #13.

2. Question #5 on form DS-156 -- you have to list your child(ren) and answer the question if your child "Will Follow You" (later) or "Will Accompany You" (now). That is how the government will know, you will tell them on the forms.

K1 forms

Edited by Leatherneck, 29 May 2012 - 05:53 PM.

LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-05-29 17:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresbig age difference

My fiancee (US petitioner) is 19 and I'm 22 (will turn 23 in August), does she need parental consent?? Is this letter needed for the interview only? Just curious cuz I've never heard about that before so I'd like to know. Thanks!


No you don't, not in your case. The advice regarding "parental advice" and "parental consent" is country specific to the Philippines, there is no such requirement for American citizens.
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-06-17 06:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCR1 to K1

hello eveyone, i hope everyone is doing well today. i have a question regarding on my friends problem. this girl was married last year and her husband filed a CR1 application last year of april then they broke up last year of november and she found a new boyfriend.they got engaged last february this year and her fiance filed a K1 visa april also this year? what are the things that they will encounter while waiting for her NOa2?thanks guys and God bless.


Unless the ex husband withdrew the CR-1 petition after the breakup, there would still be an active petition on file, which would come to the attention of USCIS while processing the new I-129F. At that point, USCIS would issue an RFE for a divorce decree proving she is divorced from the husband. Failure to provide the document would mean a denial.

Since only those that are "free to marry" may file the I-129F petition, filing the petition prior to a divorce should result in a denial at USCIS. If however, the petition somehow gets past USCIS, being married at the time the I-129F was filed will surely be noticed at USEM during the interview. Manila has denied visas in the past when it was discovered an I-129F was filed prior to a final divorce decree being issued.
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-08-31 02:07:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK1 VISA WORK PERMIT
Maybe you have the K-1 confused with the IR-1/CR-1.


Entering the U.S. via a K-1 visa does not equal an "...instant work permit."

You must first:

1. Marry your petitioner within 90 days of entry.

2. Thereafter "Adjust Status" by submitting form I-485.

3. Also you want to submit form I-765 together with the I-485 to request an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

4. Once you have the EAD, it is then and only then you are legally permitted to work.

Edited by Leatherneck, 16 September 2012 - 06:05 AM.

LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-09-16 06:03:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWEDDING BLESSING NO LEGAL BINDING
For a future K-1 applicant to partake in a ceremony with any resemblance to a wedding, that could come back to bite you on the butt. What your ceremony would represent to you and your family and how it might be precieved by a CO are very different animals.

If you have similiar trappings of an actual wedding, would you want to jump through fire trying to prove or convince a CO that you're not married? You certainly would not want to delay being united in the US with your fiancee or risk being denied.

Edited by Leatherneck, 26 December 2012 - 05:48 AM.

LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-12-26 05:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWorried about the address he put in I-129F and G-325
Did your fiance complete Form G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance and clip it to the I-129F Petition so that he/you could be notified via email?
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2013-01-05 15:12:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures

Thanks, its so hard now and days to get a straight answer in layman terms.


Click here for the "All Japan Filers" thread, you can ask and get answers to your questions that are specific to the visa process when applying from Japan.

Click here to view a video with useful info provided by the U.S. Embassy Tokyo.

Wow, Now I need a lawyer to translate this, but it sounds pretty much what letterneck said


LeatherneckMalePhilippines2013-01-20 23:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures

Yes I think we have the same understanding now. But I would like to inform you that in the Phils. You need to attached that divorced decision in her marriage certificate so that it will be adopted in our country. I have sent you the links.

The OP/gf does not have to notify NSO of the divorce that took place in Japan nor does a marriage that occurred outside of the Philippines need to registered in the Philippines. The decision to register a marriage or to have an annulment recognized in the Philippines is purely optional, personal and/or based on current circumstances or future needs.
You may contact National Statistics Office on how the divorced decision will be attached to her marriage contract before. Ill be sending you the link too.

See above, the same answer applies here.

Good luck.


The OP's gf will need nothing from the Philippine gov't accept a police/NBI clearance, considering that's where she's from and lived there longer than 6 months. Other than that, the gf's visa application will be adjudicated in Japan based on perimeters used by the Embassy or consulate in Japan and based on what is customary for Japan. The OP's gf is of Filipino heritage residing legally in Japan as a permenant resident, therefore, they will follow the Embassy guidelines for Japan, not what is customary for the Philippines.
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2013-01-20 23:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures

My filipino Girlfriend resides in Japan under a permanent visa. She was married in Japan and has a daughter by a Japanese man. She was divorced in japan two years ago. Under Japan laws she is legally divorced . Under Philippines law there is no divorce procedure only annulment. Will she be required to undergo the annulment procedure before we can apply for a fiancee visa for the USA. Since she is living in Japan can we apply for the fiancee visa there. This situation is confusing to me. Any advice is greatly appreciated


She is a permanent resident of Japan and divorced in Japan, no need to get an annulment in the Philippines, her divorce is recognized by and valid to USCIS. Japan is her home now, so the Embassy or consulate in Japan will handle the process.

She's still married only in the Philippines, otherwise, her divorce is as "good as gold" to the rest of the world. No lawyer is needed unless you have a complicated case.

Edited by Leatherneck, 19 January 2013 - 08:05 PM.

LeatherneckMalePhilippines2013-01-19 20:02:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresTWO ENVELOPES. Help me understand!

I took a photo of it. Please see attached picture. I didn't open the package completely. This is from the small opening on the plastic when I took out my passport.



You're fine, no need to panic. You have to open the plastic to retrieve your passport,
that envelope with the string around it is no biggy, just re-wrap the string. Just
don't open the other envelope.

As another poster commented, inspect your passport and make sure your name
is spelled right and the other info is correct.

Congratulations on getting your visa...have a safe trip to the US of A!
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2011-12-25 02:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSingapore Police Clearance??? For K1 Visa in Philippines
Read this thread - you might find the answer to your issue, post #11 has the info you're looking for.

http://www.visajourn...from-singapore/
LeatherneckMalePhilippines2012-04-05 16:02:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNo Pictures Together = No I-129F Approval

My I-129f  was received February 25th 2014 at the CSC.  If they do Request For Evidence (pictures) does this really slow down the whole process? The immigration attorney also claims they can make the process go quicker because they can fill interview cancelllations at the Oslo embassy or request expedite. Does hiring an attorney make the process go faster or is it just insurance/waste of money? and how long does the K1 usually take?

 

You can do that yourself by monitoring the Oslo Embassy appointment calendar. 

 

Lawyers can also slow the process down -- many simply can not and/or will not be as proactive about your case as you would.


LeatherneckMalePhilippines2014-04-09 13:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK1 visa issue

No request necessary, the beneficiary can decide when to enter the U.S.


LeatherneckMalePhilippines2014-05-13 07:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 Visa after a Divorce

A second petition is not grounds for a denial by and of itself.

 

After two previous petitions -- a third petition would require a waiver request for multiple filings.


LeatherneckMalePhilippines2014-05-17 19:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHas Anyone Entered US With Opened Envelope?

The beneficiaries that have posted here in the past about the opening of the sealed envelope were encouraged to return to the IV unit at whatever embassy to have it resealed.  So, might be tough to find adequate first hand experience with regard POE and unsealed envelope to satisfy you.

 

If returning to the embassy to get the contents of the envelope checked and verified is not an option -- then what would be the option for a beneficiary that happened to get a real jerk CBP officer that denied entry and put beneficiary on the first flight back from which they came?


LeatherneckMalePhilippines2014-05-17 13:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI badly need your assistance

Have him review his bank account for the cashed check.


LeatherneckMalePhilippines2014-05-16 10:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresProactive Preparation for I-129

New member here.  First post.

 

I will soon be visiting my fiance.  Which documents require her signature.  I'd like to get her signature on these documents during our visit.  This way, when I return to the US, I'll already have what I need to file.

 

Thanks for your help,

Toby

 

Welcome to the forum Toby and Quennie.


LeatherneckMalePhilippines2014-05-18 09:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPast visitor visa denied, can K1 visa be denied because of it

There  was no requirement to declare he had a girlfriend in the USA. That denial will not impact his future K-1 visa application.


Edited by Leatherneck, 22 May 2014 - 11:20 PM.

LeatherneckMalePhilippines2014-05-22 23:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhere to file i-129f

A statement of intent to marry with your signature is required.

 

 

Where to File

File Form I-129F at the USCIS Dallas Lockbox facility:
For U.S. Postal Service (USPS):

USCIS
P.O. Box 660151
Dallas, TX 75266

For USPS Express Mail and courier deliveries:
USCIS
Attn: I-129F
2501 South State Highway 121 Business
Suite 400
Lewisville, TX 75067












Edited by Leatherneck, 24 May 2014 - 04:41 PM.

LeatherneckMalePhilippines2014-05-24 16:39:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresdrug convictions

I recently traveled to the Philippines to meet a girl I had been talking to on Skype and Facebook. After spending some time with her and her son, we have decided to get married. The problem is I have several drug convictions the last one being 15 years ago for which i served 5 years in federal prison. I have been drug and alcohol free ever since and have held a decent job. I have talked to her about my past and she knows everything. I'm afraid that this will disqualify me from filing the petition for her to come to the US. 

My question is, will i still be able to bring her to the US with my criminal history?

 

Your numerous convictions do not disqualify you from submitting a petition. You have more than 3 convictions,so  know going in, and be prepared for extra scrutiny.  You are required to submit certified copies of all court and police records showing the charges and dispositions for each conviction -- front load your I-129F Petition with that information.

 

A K-1 is not your only option, you could get married in the Philippines and submit an I-130 Petition -- thus, avoiding the requirement under IMBRA to submit certified copies of court and police records for each conviction.  However, an extensive background check would still be conducted -- that information would be sent to the Embassy, and your wife would be questioned/informed about it.

 

 


LeatherneckMalePhilippines2014-05-25 14:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK1 with Child

In the Philippines -- if the child is illegitimate, then no permission is needed from the father. If you wait until the child turns 5 years old, your (your now fiance) husband would submit an I-130 Petition.


LeatherneckMalePhilippines2014-05-23 12:25:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresGot RFE in mail but no online case status update

Granted it's a pain in the backside -- but the proper response would be to submit the items requested in the RFE. 

 

It's not uncommon for USCIS to RFE for information you've already submitted.


LeatherneckMalePhilippines2014-05-17 07:31:00