ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresemail from USCIS...
Roughly 2 out of 3 people reporting have been transferred from Vermont to California. The rest of us are waiting for the news.
transfers

Edited by Jersey Girl, 18 July 2006 - 07:57 AM.

Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-07-18 07:57:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCan my governor help?
The alternative is to be realistic and settle in for a one year process, or however long it takes US-Brazil couples. This endevour takes a lot of homework, and estimating the time involved is the most important task. Otherwise, you'll worry and wait, go on fruitless quests, and give yourself hives, when you could have spent the time being relaxed and productive.

Welcome to the waiting room. There's coffee and donuts on the table. If you need something stronger, the Canadians have good beer.

Edited by Jersey Girl, 21 July 2006 - 07:49 AM.

Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-07-21 07:48:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI130 to California
Me too. And I posted the list here
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-07-25 14:11:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCase transferred to california service center!?!??!
Hi johnsmith, I'm also in New Jersey and sent I-130 to Vermont in March. It was transferred to California today. Hang in there and don't ask too many rational questions, because nothing makes sense!

Edited by Jersey Girl, 25 July 2006 - 01:43 PM.

Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-07-25 13:42:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAre married couples penanlized with the Visa Process?
Just a personal observation. If you look for instances of "unfair treatment," you'll find them and become indignant. If you look for "people being penalized," you'll find them and become outraged.

But if you remember that no one has a right to a visa, you'll stop comparing engaged couples with married couples and become calm. It's a moot point ... a non issue. The time it takes YOU is based on many factors (and surprises like IMBRA), and everyone here wishes you all the best.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-07-26 07:56:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAPPROVAL OF I130!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
Hey, I barely recognize you now that you don't look so desperate! When the perma-grin wears off, we'd like to know if you'll keep the K3 in play, just in case it might still turn out to be the fast lane we all expected. Could happen. Pigs could fly, right?
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-07-25 13:49:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedures***PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT***

For all those who believe in any supernatural being, please pray to them regarding the Pharmacist and the Doctor's Immigration issue.

Have faith. The good God who has been taking care of you all this while will continue to hold you in the palm of his hand.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-07-25 13:33:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresApproved at long last
congratulations on persevering and finally getting your approval. Are you in the States as a visitor? Are you going back to Canada to wait for the next steps?
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-07-28 17:39:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI-130 APPROVED IN 61 DAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hey, I hear singing. Is that the Beach Boys?

"I wish they all could be California girls!"
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-08-01 08:40:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresIs the CR-1 different than the K3?
Andy, your petition will either be approved or not. No one can predict the outcome. In the meantime, don't jump to the worst conclusions because you're rejecting yourself before they do, and it's not certain they will. Your crimes are probably not the ones IMBRA is looking for. Stay strong.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-08-03 08:42:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresIs the CR-1 different than the K3?
Andy, is there more to the story? In how many countries did you have convictions? And why are you worried about "technicalities" or that they won't accept your evidence?

Yodrak is saying it's probably not a good idea to pick and choose a visa type based on your background. I agree. Not because it could slow down a CR-1, if that's in the future. But because it's not sound reasoning to suppose that certain questions apply to K1 but not CR-1.

Yes, the forms and processes are different, but ultimately, the USC will be asked about their background and/or have it checked at the NVC stage. IMBRA asks certain questions up front. But I doubt you can avoid having a background check by dropping K1 now and going for CR-1 later. As aussiewench points out, others have done this (including Yodrak) but not to avoid scrutiny. Also, going for DCF does not sidestep the issue, since you're dealing with USCIS from near or far.

If you're denied K1, I'm not sure whether you can petition to have it reconsidered based on new evidence. (What would that be, anyway?) If you file all over again, for the same person, it probably won't be considered "multiple petitions," as aussiewench points out. That seems to be what you're dreading: certain questions for those who've filed other K1s. Correct?

If you petition for CR-1 (DCF or not), the information may follow you anyway, even though there's no IMBRA letter, as Yodrak says. And it may still be grounds to deny. Gosh Andy, what did you do? Incite riots while dealing drugs to children wearing nothing but an old hammer and sickle flag?

At this point, just ride the wave and see if it brings you safely to shore. It might. But that doesn't mean you'll never be asked what you're afraid of, or that they won't dig it up independently. As you think of your options, live with this idea for a day: I love this person enough to marry her and live in Europe for the rest of my life.

Edited by Jersey Girl, 02 August 2006 - 03:26 PM.

Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-08-02 15:22:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresIs the CR-1 different than the K3?
Okay, so you had a few too many and socked some guy in the nose. So have a lot of other rowdies. You were charged with assualt and submitted certified court records. So far you don't sound like a guy who abuses women.

Andy, there is no visa where the USC is not investigated in some way. So if a barroom brawl is a deal breaker (which I doubt), then it will probably resurface at some point if you try for CR-1. The Department of State may run background checks on both parties once the petition is approved and before it's sent to the Embassy. That's with all visas.

Look, you can't change the past. But you can be kind to yourself while waiting.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-08-02 12:24:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresIs the CR-1 different than the K3?
Andy, take a deep breath and start seeing the glass as half full. This is your first petition ever (right?) and you've already returned the IMBRA letter. Did you have to check a box relating to your past? Did you submit "supporting evidence"?

I believe they're looking for domestic violence. If there was none of this in connection with the alcohol charges, you may be okay. But what do I know? By signing the letter, we gave permission for independent checking. If your response raised a red flag, and they check, hopefully, they won't find the kind of violence they're filtering for.

You're right to sit tight and see if you pass their screen. If your petition is denied, this information might come back if you married and petitioned for CR-1. Right, Yordak?
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-08-02 11:32:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresIs the CR-1 different than the K3?
Andy, I'm not sure you "have options," since you already petitioned for a K1 fiancee.

Unless ... you marry her ... withdraw the K1 fiancee petition ... then file the I-130 for your spouse. This might avoid further IMBRA questions but you'd be separated longer. Anyone know if this is a viable (or advisable) strategy?

(I'm assuming you want to avoid questions about your background rather than looking for a faster method.)
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-08-02 09:50:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCalifornia transferees. Please use this thread!!!!!

~22,000 of them, according to USCIS.

If that's the case, then the demographers should be expecting a baby boom as soon as all these couples are reunited at last.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-07-26 19:00:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCalifornia transferees. Please use this thread!!!!!
Found the poll and list HERE
and added myself.


name..................................NOA1........................Transfered on.........TO

NEWHAMPSHIRE.................03/01/06........................07/12/06...................CSC
doodads.............................03/06/06........................07/06/06..................CSC
legolas...............................03/08/06........................07/06/06..................CSC
Dinu..................................03/24/06.........................07/06/06..................CSC
Raevin13............................3/25/06 .........................07/06/06..................CSC
desperatewife.....................4/13/06..........................07/06/06...................CSC
languageladki.....................04/13/06.........................07/07/06...................CSC
Sachinator.........................04/18/06.........................07/06/06....................CSC
jazzy.................................05/05/06.........................07/12/06...................CSC
ae4ever.............................06/01/06.........................07/18/06...................CSC
Laura_and_IanM ................06/02/06.........................07/18/06...................CSC
NorthernGirl.......................06/20/06.........................07/18/06...................CSC
Jersey Girl.........................04/03/06.........................07/25/06....................CSC
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-07-25 14:09:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCalifornia transferees. Please use this thread!!!!!
I-130 transferred today from Vermont to California. Received the email today. Guess I'm a late bloomer. Yes, there's a poll someplace, with roughly 3/4 all Vermonts going to CSC.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-07-25 05:57:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAPPROVED!!! after being transferred to CSC!
Astoundingly fast! Congratulations!
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-08-04 09:10:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresREQUESTING MENTAL SUPPORT
Okay, I read the story and it's complex. But you've done everything you can. Hopefully they'll see that his intentions were always honorable, based on what he knew. You need to make the time pass between now and the interview, so distract yourself. Pray, read, nap, watch movies, iron pillow cases, cook something elaborate, take the baby for a long walk. Don't allow yourself to think the worst. Just breathe and have faith.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-08-06 10:31:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresREQUESTING MENTAL SUPPORT
pharmacist, take a cue from the baby, who's probably snoozing peacefully right now. And remember that God has guided and protected your family to this point and won't let you down. You're in everyone's thoughts and prayers. You have nothing to worry about!
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-08-06 09:37:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedures221g- TEMPORARY REFUSAL
pharmacist, so sorry to hear your plight. But hang in there, because your case is complicated and it'll take a while for them to reconstruct what actually happened. There were errors on their part, not his. Hopefully, they'll realize it was one slip up after another, while he honestly believed he was in compliance. Be very gentle wiith yourself and have faith. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-08-09 13:15:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAnyone here done K3 and followed up with CR-1?
Yes, there are people who enter on K3 and go back for the CR-1 interview, and it's always a personal choice. If it's easy for you to fly back ... if you can afford it ... if it's safe while you're pregnant ...

If you want to enter on K3 and start a family, this may be the perfect time, since it's the only "job" you can do legally! If you decide to "get busy," AOS may be worth considering, since you wouldn't have to travel, and there'd be less of a rush to get a greencard anyway. Have you checked the wait time at your local USCIS office?

On the other hand, if working asap is the paramount concern, you could start submitting your Choice of Agent and other forms, with the intent of flying back. After getting the CR-1 visa, you might find a full-time job in the States with maternity leave.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-09-24 10:35:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHi All!!!
If you ask the wrong question, you'll get the wrong answer. How about this: What would be better? Quaffing real beer in a UK pub or spitting out watery swill in the States? (Guess my vote is CR-1 interview in UK.) :yes:
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-11-26 18:16:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHow do you cope with the seperation and worry?
You're actually a lot further into the process than many others at the 4-month mark, so take heart. See each day as another day closer to your goal. Think about taking another part-time job if it will help distract you. They say "a watched kettle never boils," so stop watching and waiting! Just get on with your life as it is now and plan for the way you want it to be when you're together. 2007 will be your year!
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2007-01-01 12:47:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedurespls help!
Actually, we haven't yet heard millie's details of the situation, so maybe she can shed some more light.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2007-01-16 20:40:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedurespls help!
I'm confused. Was he engaged to someone else who petitioned for K-1? Which country is he from? Did he enter the U.S. on a K-1 but was already married to you? How did he get a greencard a month after arriving?
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2007-01-16 07:05:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCanadian marrying a US Citizen - K1?
Why not visit the U.S. as planned, decide then to accept your fiance's proposal, get married in a simple ceremony, go back to Canada, and apply for the K3? By returning to Canada, you'll show your intent to do things by the book.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-05-05 11:00:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresVISA APPROVED
Felicitations! (Or are you sick of hearing French?) ;)
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-06-08 16:39:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNEED PEOPLES OPINION
billsgirl, if they're doing a story on IMBRA, it will be sensationalist. They'll publish all the grisly details of the abuse and murders. Your story will simply be an aside: look at this nice American-Canadian couple who have to wait.

Please be smart about this. Recognize that you have no control over what they print and how you will be positioned.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-06-09 11:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNEED PEOPLES OPINION
Unfortunately, you have no idea how the Writer and Editor will spin your story. While they're giving you the impression now that it will show you in a good light, you'll never know until it's in print. You may want to tell the story from the point-of-view of people doing things the right way, but they're in the business of selling newspapers and will tell whatever story they want.

I wouldn't be worried about your photograph, but about allowing yourselves to be used without having any veto power over the text. If you want to ensure the story is what you intend, write a Letter to the Editor and include your photos if you want.

(Disclosure: I'm a Writer. I understand how flattered and flustered you feel right now.)
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-06-09 10:22:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion regarding Fiance visa
Sorry, you can't set a firm date for five months from now and expect the government to comply. Unless you're willing to lose all the deposits and other fees associated with a wedding. Which are nothing compared to the angst of wondering if it will all happen as planned. You could have a simple wedding now, submit a K3 instead of K1, and have the big party at some later date. Or, have a long engagement and set a date after you have the K1 visa for sure. There are too many people here who've had their plans squashed, their wallets emptied, and their friends and family left with non-refundable airfares.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-06-23 08:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhich process will be best for us (K-1 or K-3)?
How could she have entered into a marriage that was only "his idea"?

What made the husband so sure she was cheating?

If she didn't want to talk to him because he upset her so much, why wouldn't she agree to a divorce?

There are too many red flags, one of which is that you've spent very little time in each others' company. You say she had an on-again-off-again relationship with her husband for a year, married on the spur of the moment, spent an afternoon with him, and then returned to a cruise ship? If this were fiction, it would be unbelievable. Doesn't it strike you as flip? Or bizarre? What makes you think history isn't repeating itself?
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-06-28 20:34:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhich process will be best for us (K-1 or K-3)?

It's a long story but I think it's important

You're right. It's important. There's more to the story than you know. I'd contact the soon-to-be-ex-husband and get the other side. Ask her point blank if she has ever had someone petition for a visa for her.

Past behavior can be a portent of things to come. If she gets married hurriedly, or without knowing the finace very long, there may be something else going on. Don't rush into marriage. You can protect yourself with a K1. If unpleasant things arise, you have the option to withdraw it. Sorry, but your story has warning signs all over it. The object is not to get the visa as soon as possible, but to be married as long as possible.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-06-28 18:57:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurescan i make K-1?
I don't know if a U.S. citizen can apply for a K1 for a Thai fiancee who's considered "underage" in many States. Why not wait until you're 18 and considered an adult? If it's true love, it will stand the test of time, especially since that time is uncertain because of IMBRA.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-07-01 09:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurescan i make K-1?
ERIS, where is your fiance? Can you show him this site and the K1 guide? You would probably be 18+ by the time a K1 was granted. Your finance would have to show evidence that he can support you.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-07-01 07:04:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresstuck in "administrative review", NVC
How and where did you meet?
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-07-01 07:00:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresThank you Lord !!!
Thank you, Lord, we believe in your promises and are not afraid to say so. Please help us lead good lives together and share the abundance of your blessings.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-08-07 18:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSleepless in Arizona
If you change your mind, you'll change your world.

Right now, you're "waiting for tragedy." Change that to "waiting with faith and hope."

You're already stressing and expect to be anxious. Change that to relaxing and enjoying all the blessings you have this very day.

You'll need a variety of techniques to get through this process sane and intact. But the most important is to have a realistic time frame. Will it be six months? A year? No one can stay at a high stress level all that time without having a breakdown. Change that. Think of this time as a period in which you get healthier, in mind and body. Not for you, but for the sake of the one who loves you.

If you've got a spiritual side, pray everyday. God knows what we need but likes to hear us ask and stay in touch.

Treat yourself well. Eat wholesome food. Exercise. Get plenty of sleep. Take care with your appearance.

Stay busy with work, hobbies, volunteering.

Stay connected socially. Don't isolate yourself and sink into a depressed state.

Distract yourself. Read, rent movies, paint a picture, paint the whole house ...

It's natural to feel lonely, hopeless, and overwhelmed, and people here will support you. But it's also possible to consciously pull yourself out of the inevitable funks by having a number of strategies that work for you.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-08-09 09:05:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresUSCIS.GOV site is up, but Case Status link not working
Down. Might be maintenance. Relax.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-08-10 18:08:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureshelp, support
Daniel, all this may be a blessing in disguise. Your parents are actually forcing you to become independent sooner rather than later. You're a young man who's engaged, so it's time to leave the nest anyway.

It might interesting to imagine your life without the inheritance. That way, if there's any vindictivness, you'll be ready with Plan B.

Let's face it, your life is not working out the way you originally planned, and you'll need to be flexible, resourceful, and focused on the visa. All the rest will come in due time!

You're in our thoughts and prayers.
Jersey GirlFemaleCanada2006-08-11 16:11:00