ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion on the I-130 form...
Fill in N/A
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-24 12:39:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAbout to visit husband to be and want CR-1 advice
Well it's illegal, so in that sense no it's not a potential way of doing it. You cannot enter the U.S. on any other visa (or visa waiver) with the intention of getting married and adjusting status. And they haven't applied for a CR-1 in that case. A CR-1 is a visa, which is used to enter the country. If he's already in the country all he is doing is adjusting status.

None of us want to be separated from our SO but unfortunately if you're going to do this the legally, that's the way it goes.

You can both feel free to visit each other. You'd have to bring a lot more proof that you're going to return to the U.K. but he shouldn't have a hard time.

imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-24 12:38:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresMailing the Choice of Agent
Actually the LingChe shortcuts are updated. The address in particular was updated at the end of April to reflect the new NVC address. It is different from the ones listed on the cover sheet but the NVC operator confirmed to me that the address in the LingChe guide is correct. They are the ones who haven't updated their cover sheets yet.

But like I said, sending it to either address, at least for the time being, will get it there. I sent my AOS to the old address as listed on the cover sheet, and my IV package to the address in the LingChe guide (after confirming it with the NVC operator). They were both received the next day without issue.
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-23 13:53:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresMailing the Choice of Agent
Well in the choice of agent packet they ask you to send it to:
National Visa Center
Att: ACL
31 Rochester Ave. Suite 200
Portsmouth, NH 03801

In reality all those attentions and suite numbers and even the 31/32 don't matter. I think it might delay it by a day or two if it needs to be transferred to a different room, but it still got there.

imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-23 11:06:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedureswant to be prepared
http://www.visajourn...he_NVC_ShortCut
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-25 21:02:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHELLO ALL!! Just paid the $70 and $400 fee....NEXT STEP?
QUOTE (Chris S. @ Jun 18 2009, 03:06 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Okay I understand,

So it looks like i will have to send only two more forms...the I-864 (AOS) and then the DS-230 (Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration)

This is just getting a bit confusing to me.

So Imaisha.....was i correct on that at this point it should take a few months longer?

Thanks for your response smile.gif


Chris, how long it takes at this stage is totally dependent on your individual position. I had all of my packages prepared and ready to go before getting to NVC and it still took 37 days for them to complete it. You'll have to do some research on how to acquire the police reports and other certificates and how long those will take. It also depends on how prepared you are financially and if you have the appropriate documentation to hand for that as well. I also don't know how long the wait for an interview in Sri Lanka will be. Some embassies are busier than others. Maybe someone else has some experience with that one in particular. Best advice, get started on preparing your packages now, you don't want to lose any more time. Best case scenario you could be done in 3-4 months. That's a best case. It could obviously take much longer...
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-06-18 14:21:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHELLO ALL!! Just paid the $70 and $400 fee....NEXT STEP?
No, everyone must complete that step.
Here is an outline of the NVC process: http://www.visajourn...wchart_v1-2.pdf

And though they won't really be shortcuts at this point, this page will be useful: http://www.visajourn...he_NVC_ShortCut
In particular read from section 10 on.

imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-06-18 14:01:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresK3 Visa Inerview -- How to Cancel?
Unfortunately NVC has nothing to do with the K-3 appointments. They are scheduled by the embassies and NVC knows nothing about them.

And it's not a 12 minute minimum to call- it's a $12 flat charge. I wouldn't rely on any information received from a hotline though. Always best to put it in writing and receive a written response.

The DOS has this page: http://travel.state....L-0001-0903.pdf which also provides an email address and a street address. I'd suggest sending them an email as well as a written letter stating that you'd like to cancel the interview.
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-25 23:17:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresds-230 documents
QUOTE (calico1 @ Jul 25 2009, 08:22 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Now what my confusion is..is that for #7 petitioner documents it states "Applicants in the following visa catagories are required to provide (1) original or cert copy of their Petitioner's birth certificate (2) original or certified copy of their Petitioner's marriage certificate from the Petitioner's current and all previous marriages.
visa catagories: 1. Parent of a U.S. citizen who is at least 21 years old (IR-5)
2. Brothers and sisters of United States citizens (F4)

Am I spose to fit in to this catagory? I have done this whole cr-1 visa thing from day 1 but I can't figure out what in the world they are talking about..wouldn't my current marriage certificate be the same as my wife's? Or do they mean something else? ANYONE who has dealt with this ds-230 submittal of doc's maybe can tell me what they are getting at..it would be greatly appreciated..I have all other bases covered..good luck to all and god bless..J and bing


You've answered your own question. You're applying for a CR-1 visa for your spouse, so those documents are not necessary.
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-25 21:37:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI-130 what documents do you need to show that you are a u.s. citizen
If you are married and filing an I-130 you are not applying for a K-1. This is the wrong forum for that.

And please read the instructions for each form carefully. 99% of answers can be found there.

But yes, either one of those will do.

From: http://www.uscis.gov.../I-130instr.pdf

What Documents Do You Need to Show That You Are a U.S. Citizen?

1. If you were born in the United States, a copy of your birth certificate, issued by a civil registrar, vital statistics office, or other civil authority.

2. A copy of your naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship issued by USCIS or the former INS.

3. A copy of Form FS-240, Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States, issued by a U.S. Embassy or consulate.

4. A copy of your unexpired U.S. passport; or

5. An original statement from a U.S. consular officer verifying that you are a U.S. citizen with a valid passport.

6. If you do not have any of the above documents and you were born in the United States, see instructions under Page 3, "What If a Document Is Not Available?"

Edited by imaisha, 27 July 2009 - 11:58 AM.

imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-27 11:57:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresIR1 Steps after arriving
The IR-1 visa is good for only 6 months, just like the rest of them. The green card that is received after entry on an IR-1 visa is valid for 10 years. Big difference there. The immigrant must enter within 6 months of receiving the visa.

Your wife could theoretically leave immediately after arrival- at her POE she'll get a stamp to go along with the visa that acts as a temporary green card for one year. If you wait for the actual card it'll be about a month I believe.
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-27 11:15:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresReceived NOA2 (I guess)
QUOTE (amykathleen2005 @ Jul 28 2009, 09:00 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
So if this doesn't go through the NVC is the overall process faster for UK visas, or does it get held up instead in London?


It's about a million times faster. That holds true for DCF everywhere, not just the UK. The time savings comes not just from skipping NVC but really skipping USCIS service centers in the U.S. You can have your petition approved in 1-2 months rather than 5-7. It's only available to married couples who have lived together in the beneficiary's country for at least 6 months.

Edited by imaisha, 28 July 2009 - 08:17 AM.

imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-28 08:16:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresReceived NOA2 (I guess)
Correct. Have you read these?

http://london.usemba.../ivprocess.html
http://london.usemba.../iv/ds2001.html

It says they'll send you more information. I'd bet it's just the same as our packet 3. If that's the case you can call DOS and ask if they've produced the packet yet and then go ahead and mail the forms in on your own. It sometimes takes them a bit to actually mail things out once they've been created so if time is a concern for you you might want to consider trying that.

And make sure you have a few original copies for your own records in case you need to resend them. There have been a few cases of the embassy never entering the packet 3, for which the only solution is to send it again.
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-28 07:47:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCR1 process
NVC is part of the Department of State. So are the embassies. The embassies are where the visas are actually issued. NVC simply accepts your application for the visa, acknowledges that you have all the components. It's up to the embassy whether or not the visa is issued.

Once you've filed the I-129f you can't tell USCIS that you'd rather pursue the CR-1. Just wait for the petitions to be approved (which will likely happen at the same time) and then ignore the K-3 correspondence.
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-07 15:59:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCR-1 interview enstead of K-3
There's also the theory that you should not say anything to the embassy about the CR-1 and just show up for the K-3 interview; because the immigrant visa will be available to you (the CR-1 paperwork will all be there) they'd have to interview you for the CR-1.

The reasoning behind that one is that sometimes when you contact the embassy to ask for the flip they'll say, "Oh no, we've cancelled your K-3 interview then. You'll just come in for the CR-1 later." You won't even get the option to choose to interview for the K-3. I can't remember who recommended not informing the embassy- I think it was pushbrk or Ling Ling.

It really comes down to the embassy so a safer bet would be to ask around the Russia forum to see if anyone has tried. Then you'll have a better idea of their policy before you decide whether to contact them.
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-28 11:09:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI-130 & I-129F (K-3) Approved - Confusion!
QUOTE (sierratango @ Jul 23 2009, 08:18 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (imaisha @ Jul 17 2009, 11:23 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hehe yeah I know that feeling very well. I was approved after 7 months so I had all the wheels turning. Got a response to my service requests around 2 weeks after my NOA2s saying, "We no longer have your case. Please contact NVC with any further questions." Gee thanks guys!


So, an NVC case number was assigned for the I-130. It doesn't indicate that any additional paperwork has been sent as of yet (says beneficiary will receive information within X number of weeks). However, I just received a notice in the mail from NVC regarding the I-129F (K3) application. It says it will be sent to the Vancouver consulate within 1 week for additional processing.

Call NVC and give them both of your email addresses. Then they'll email you all the paperwork. Much quicker than waiting X number of weeks for the mail.

Now, clearly, the K-3 is somewhat of a useless option to pursue (since they were approved at the same time). So, I do want to drop that application and just pursue the CR-1. Should I just ignore any further requests for the K-3 and look out for ones for the CR-1? Will ignoring the requests for the K-3 jeopardize the CR-1 application?

Yes just ignore the rest of the K-3 process. No, it won't hurt the CR-1 application. The petitions have been separated now.

I've noticed some posts where people have thought about writing a letter to withdraw the I-129F. I've seen responses that seem to indicate that writing to withdraw could cause the withdrawal of the I-130 as well. Any thoughts on the best route to pursue here?

You wouldn't be withdrawing the petition. They're referring to when they are both still at USCIS. If anything you'd just be sending a letter to the embassy to let them know you're pursuing the CR-1 and you no longer wish to continue with the K-3. It's not necessary though. People abandon petitions all the time.


imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-23 19:48:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI-130 & I-129F (K-3) Approved - Confusion!
Hehe yeah I know that feeling very well. I was approved after 7 months so I had all the wheels turning. Got a response to my service requests around 2 weeks after my NOA2s saying, "We no longer have your case. Please contact NVC with any further questions." Gee thanks guys!
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-17 22:23:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI-130 & I-129F (K-3) Approved - Confusion!
It's possible that the two NOA2s just went into the mail at different times. Give it a few more days. Call NVC and enter the USCIS case number for the I-130 to see if they have a record of it yet. If they don't, don't panic- it's only been three days. If you received the case status update for the I-130 then you're fine. There's no reason they would hold the I-130 and force you to pursue the K3.

It's possible that it's gotten lost... but don't start thinking about that yet. It's waaay too soon to worry.

Oh and the A# on the NOA2 for the I-129f will be the same for the the I-130.

And congrats!

Edited by imaisha, 17 July 2009 - 06:44 PM.

imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-17 18:43:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI-864 at the Interview
QUOTE (MikenKyhen @ Jul 29 2009, 09:30 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
The NVC doesn't forward the I-864 to the USEM. Bring it with you because they won't have it. Good luck on your interview. Mike


NVC definitely does forward the I-864 to the embassy. It's recommended that you bring another copy just in case something goes missing, or in situations like yours when financial situations have changed and the information needs to be updated.

Edited by imaisha, 29 July 2009 - 08:37 AM.

imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-29 08:34:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresi-864A co-sponsor question?
QUOTE (jonMullick @ Jul 29 2009, 12:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My co-sponsor filling-up I-864.
On part-3 question-8:
Yes- No- (Applicable only in cases with two joint sponsors)

Does he click on "NO"?

Thanks for your help.


He should check yes. That question pertains to affidavits for multiple immigrants. For example, if you were sponsoring an entire family and you used a joint sponsor you'd be able to say "I'm sponsoring persons 1+2" and the joint sponsor would say "I'm sponsoring person 3."

And please refrain from posting the same question multiple times, in different threads or in the same one. You should not expect an immediate response- just wait until someone comes along who can answer you.

Edited by imaisha, 29 July 2009 - 11:18 AM.

imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-29 11:17:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresi-864A co-sponsor question?
QUOTE (emma88 @ Jul 29 2009, 11:36 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
yes he can be your co sponsor, and he will have to give his own i186 and you will still have to give your too. if he lives in teh same house then he will be household member but you you live seperate then its not houshold member ...hope that helps....


Incorrect. From the I-864A instructions:

Who May Be Considered a "Household
Member" for Purposes of This Form?

For purposes of this form, a "household member" is:

-A relative who has the same principal residence as the
sponsor and is related to the sponsor as a spouse, adult
child, parent, or sibling;

-A relative or other person whom the sponsor has lawfully
claimed as a dependent on the sponsor's most recent Federal
income tax return even if that person does not live at the
same residence as the sponsor;

-The intending immigrant, in certain circumstances. (See
"How Can the Intending Immigrant Be Considered a
Household Member"?)

http://www.uscis.gov...form/I-864A.pdf
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-29 11:15:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresi-864A co-sponsor question?
Yes any citizen or permanent resident can and he must include a photocopy of his green card. Keep in mind he must make enough to cover his entire household (anyone included on his tax return- children, spouse, etc.) plus the immigrant.

He cannot fill out the I-864A, the contract between the sponsor and a household member, as he is not your spouse, parent, child or sibling. He'll have to fill out his own I-864.
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-29 09:49:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionI-751 July 2011 Filers
Adding myself to the mix!



California Service Center (21 applicants)

VJName.............Date of I-751......NOA1 Date......Biometrics......Approved
JEFFCLOE...........07/02/11...........07/12/11.......08/05/11........--/--/11.....(Check Cashed on 07/09/11)
HONEY&SWEETY.......07/05/11...........07/07/11.......08/12/11........--/--/11.....(Check Cashed on 07/12/11)
HANNAH+VITO........07/06/11...........07/08/11.......08/04/11........--/--/11.....
P&K................07/09/11...........07/--/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....(Check Cashed on 07/15/11)
PANPAN.............07/12/11...........07/15/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....(Check Cashed on 07/19/11)
DIEGOWARRIOR.......07/12/11...........07/15/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....(Check Cashed on 07/20/11)
TARJETA VERDE......07/13/11...........07/14/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....(Check Cashed on 07/18/11)
LUMIKUKKA..........07/14/11...........--/--/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....(Check cashed on 07/20/11)
TUSH PUPPY.........07/14/11...........--/--/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....
F. EKIWA...........07/15/11...........07/21/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....(Check cashed on 07/20/11)
.MYTHAG-...........07/16/11...........07/20/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....
SEATTLECIPOLLETTI..07/16/11...........07/18/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....(Check cashed on 07/20/11)
POPROCKS...........07/18/11...........--/--/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....
WHIDBEYGIRL........07/18/11...........07/20/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....(Check cashed on 07/21/11)
B_FOWLER...........07/18/11...........07/25/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....(Cashed Check on 07/21/11)
HOTSHOT............07/21/11...........--/--/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....
DAN & JUAN.........07/21/11...........--/--/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....
JQ SMILEY BOOM.....07/22/11...........--/--/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....
JASON&SARAH........07/22/11...........--/--/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....
CERIZE.............07/23/11...........--/--/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....
VETSWIFE...........07/27/11...........--/--/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....


Vermont Service Center (17 applicants)

VJName.............Date of I-751......NOA1 Date......Biometrics......Approved
TIMON&PUMBA........07/01/11...........07/06/11.......08/12/11........--/--/11.....(Check Cashed on 07/08/11)
TEEJAY71107........07/01/11...........07/--/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....
JDBY...............07/03/11...........07/06/11.......08/04/11........--/--/11.....(Early Bio on 07/19/11)
MIKE AND YAN.......07/05/11...........07/08/11.......07/29/11........--/--/11.....
~HAPPYNDINLOVE~....07/05/11...........07/08/11.......08/05/11........--/--/11.....(Check Cashed on 07/12/11)
LECHATNOIR.........07/06/11...........07/11/11.......08/10/11........--/--/11.....(Check Cashed on 07/13/11)
BOBBI..............07/07/11...........07/11/11.......08/05/11........--/--/11.....
PRINCESS IN LOVE...07/07/11...........07/11/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....(Check Cashed on 07/18/11)
SWAHILI NATION.....07/07/11...........--/--/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....
GOODWIFE...........07/13/11...........07/14/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....
HTRAVAR............07/16/11...........07/20/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....(Check Cashed on 07/22/11)
SASPK..............07/16/11...........07/19/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....(Check Cashed on 07/20/11)
MR AND MRS.........07/16/11...........07/18/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....(Check Cashed on 07/20/11)
POPROCKS...........07/18/11...........--/--/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....
NEO_NY.............07/20/11...........--/--/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....
THAITOUSA..........07/20/11...........--/--/11.......--/--/11........--/--/11.....
IMAISHA............07/25/11...........--/--/11.......--/--/11........--/--/1?.....




IMPORTANT!

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imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-07-26 11:22:00
Philippinesmoved to a new address (under k1 visa)
yes you do have to let them know that you've moved. you can fill out the AR-11 online. instructions are here:

http://www.uscis.gov...00045f3d6a1RCRD

and the links to the paper format and online system are on the upper right side of the page.

congrats on your new home!
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-05-18 11:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsProcessing Times Change AGAIN!!!!!
i don't think it has gone too far backward actually. it says the processing times were as of September 30th even though they were just posted today. so that's really just over 6 1/2 months. I personally prefer the actual dates for the time frame rather than the mysterious "6 months."
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2008-11-19 10:21:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsVSC announces 6 month processing time for I-129F
QUOTE (HelloWorld08 @ Mar 16 2009, 02:28 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
both CSC and VSC has been reporting 6 months for awhile now, so nothing new here...



well in february VSC listed May 12th 2008 for K1/K3 so this certainly is news!

http://www.aila.org/...spx?docid=28092


imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-03-16 13:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsInfopass worth it?
I just got back from an Infopass and I can confirm that it was totally useless. My I-130 and I-129f are both out of processing times by just a little bit so I felt sort of bad going in, but based on the ridiculous information the customer service line has offered me ("We are no longer processing 129fs") I felt somewhat justified.
The woman was very nice, expressed how badly she felt for me and even asked me to tell my husband she said happy birthday (it's tomorrow), but none of that changes the fact that she knew absolutely nothing. She even conferred with the person at the next desk who also knew nothing. She had no idea what the current processing times were (or how to find them) and said "worst case you'll only have to wait another year (for them to finish the 130)." ANOTHER YEAR?! She told me that they can only see what I can see in the computer as they have no access to the systems in Vermont. She could only help if the greencard had already been approved. She spent about ten minutes trying to look it up though so I can't say she didn't try.
In the end she agreed that the case should have been completed already and made photocopies of my NOA1s for me and told me to write to Vermont. She said I could call all I want but they don't know anymore either so putting it in writing is the best way to go about it.

And for people wondering what the Infopass in New York City is like, you can bring cellphones in (they just ask that you turn them off) and they let my packed lunch in too. At around 8am it took about 5 minutes to get through security and the xray and metal detector and all that, then another 5 mins to speak to someone who checks your appt. slip and gives you a number. I had to really press to get past this woman as she said they wouldn't have any information (they didn't but I had to try!). Then they send you upstairs to a big waiting room where you wait for your number to come on the big flat screen tvs in some crazy future ikea waiting room chairs. Glad all those fees we pay are going to something at least. From then it was about 45 minutes til I was called, which was about 45 minutes after my appt. time. We talked for 15 minutes and that was it.

Hope other people have more luck than I did. If you can spare the time, I still think it's worth trying.
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-04-17 08:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsHow I can write the VSC?
Oh and as for what to write, keep it really simple. Some have forms already made up on their website- you just insert your case number and add a short paragraph about your problem. Senator Gillibrand does not so I just sent in a brief letter explaining that I was outside of processing times and the customer service line has been unable to help me.
The people responsible for the immigration casework (here in NYC at least) are really familiar with these cases and the service centers so you don't need to go into too much depth explaining the situation (unless you have some sort of unusual circumstances). They know the processing times and how to submit an inquiry to USCIS, they really just need your info.
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-05-01 15:04:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsHow I can write the VSC?
Hi M&D. I'm also over the 6 month mark and in Brooklyn. I've tried my congressman (Ed Towns) and both senators (Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand). Senator Gillibrand's office has been really helpful. I emailed all of my documents in and they had a response for me from VSC the next day. I've heard nothing from the other two and neither of them have returned my follow up calls.
Definitely call all of the offices first and ask to speak to the person who handles immigration case work. Take down the name, you'll send your documents to the attention of that person. Ask them if they would prefer fax or email because often the mail is rerouted to Washington D.C. for safety reasons (i have no idea...) first. You can then check their websites to get their privacy waiver which you'll send in with a photocopy of your NOA1 and any other relevant info they need.
Good luck!
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-05-01 14:59:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reportsconnected to government computer?
i think everyone sees that message. i do at least, whether at work or home. is this the one you got?

YOU HAVE CONNECTED TO A U.S. GOVERNMENT COMPUTER. IF YOU ARE NOT AUTHORIZED TO ACCESS THIS SYSTEM, DISCONNECT NOW. All attempts to access and use this system and/or its resources are subject to keystroke monitoring and recording. Everyone using this system expressly consents to such monitoring and is advised that if such reveals possible evidence of criminal activity or abuse of authority, the information will be reported to authorities for action. Unauthorized access attempts or use in excess of documented authority may subject you to a fine and/or imprisonment in accordance with Title 18, USC, Section 1030 or administrative penalties or dismissal.

imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-05-08 14:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsChange of Address
They most likely will not transfer the petitions (for that reason at least). Usually when people move it stays wherever they filed in the first place.

imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-06-12 12:08:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsCSC processing dates April 30, 2009
QUOTE (Starlight95 @ Jun 15 2009, 04:53 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
ok ...but the CSC website just says 5 months and not November 08.


Well five months before April was November...
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-06-15 16:02:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsCSC processing dates April 30, 2009
QUOTE (Starlight95 @ Jun 15 2009, 04:40 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
This is really strange I went on the CSC website, and now they are processing applications for April 09. So, far I have not seen any April 09 approvals yet. I think their dates do not reflect their actions.



I think you've misread something. Those processing times are as of April 30th 2009. Meaning on April 30th, they were processing petitions filed 5 months earlier (November).
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-06-15 15:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsVSC saying K-1's being done as of November 25th
I don't blame you at all! You're totally entitled to feeling miserable about it all. We all do at some point (or many points).

I'll tell you what happened with my reps. Maybe the same thing will happen to you, maybe not. With one senator, they emailed VSC and had a response the next day. "Yes that petition is outside of processing times. If they don't hear anything in 30 days please contact us again." I doubt that it made any difference at all because it's exactly what the customer service people would say when I called. My other senator still hasn't responded to my calls or letters and my congressman's office gave me a call back about two weeks after I got my NOA2 to ask why I had called (six weeks earlier).

Probably the most helpful call I made was to the the USCIS customer service line after 5:30pm so it was directed to the National Center, whatever that is. The guy had absolutely NO idea what I was talking about at all, but he did give me an actual reference number for my service request so that I could call them back in 45 days if I didn't hear from them. It was empowering to think I might be able to hold them accountable for something and that was actually the ONLY one that I got a response to. A few weeks after my NOA2 came they sent me a letter saying that the petitions were no longer in their office and I should contact NVC for further assistance. Gee thanks! But I guess having someone finally look for it (again, six weeks after I called) is a good sign.

I don't mean to suggest that you are better off not doing anything. It doesn't hurt to go through all these steps. I just know that I drove myself absolutely crazy those last four weeks writing letters and calling and faxing everyone and their mother, but the outcome would have been exactly the same if I had just put my feet up and had a cocktail instead. I know that's totally impossible for people like us, but if I can try to keep just one other person from going prematurely gray then I've got to try, right?

I like to think it'll come when you least expect it. I got a text message from my mother saying the letters arrived in the middle of a root canal!
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-06-16 15:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsVSC saying K-1's being done as of November 25th
If you want false hope then maybe we think of this place as two different things, and a thread about how miserable the process is isn't really what I'd call staying positive. We're here to reinforce the actual hope that exists because all of these people before you have been through the same struggle and survived. It will happen.

We were just trying to give you a realistic idea of how the process works. If you don't want that then I'll keep my mouth shut.

I've only said what I said because I know exactly how you feel. I spent my time reading all the posts before me saying it was all useless don't bother but I still bothered. Just like you're doing. I totally recommend it if it will make you feel better. But I also think the caveat is important.
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-06-16 14:02:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsVSC saying K-1's being done as of November 25th
QUOTE (T0dd&Chr1ssy @ Jun 16 2009, 12:33 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thanks for your er.....help but you had a very quick approval. In fact you completed your whole process in less the time it has and still taking us to get our NOA2. It is almost impossible to tell you or for you to understand how frustated some of us are every single day watching more and more people in febuary get approved and your advice is to sit there and do nothing. If you were ever put in our posistion, I'm sure you would be doing or at least thinking about doing the same things as us and feeling the sort of hardship were having to face everyday. So I apologise if I've offended you but I don't think its fair you come on and put me and others down just because were all venting our anger at a much much much slower incorrect and unfair system then the one you were lucky enough to slide through.


I'm not sure what Gary and Alla said that you interpreted as "putting you down" but every word was correct. Infopass appointments, service requests and repeated phone calls to the customer service line will all do nothing. They'll get to your petition when they get to it. It sucks to hear and it's obviously upsetting I know. But it's the truth. And that's from someone who waited 212 days. There are people who applied months after me and are already in the U.S. with their green cards. I know how awful it feels. And the day i was outside of processing times I immediately had service requests put in and contacted both of my senators and my congressman. Did any of it make a damn difference? Nope.
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-06-16 12:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsVSC saying K-1's being done as of November 25th
QUOTE (T0dd&Chr1ssy @ Jun 15 2009, 03:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (imaisha @ Jun 15 2009, 07:56 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (T0dd&Chr1ssy @ Jun 15 2009, 02:48 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
https://egov.uscis.g...e=serviceCenter


So thats put me 2 months further behind! 7 months and the 6+ month club here I come mad.gif

(p.s. How can they be this backlogged but still manage to do a lot in febuary! this just isn't fair its boarding on rediculous)


You're not two months behind. You're actually right on track. On April 30th (a month and a half ago) they were processing petitions from the end of November. So if they kept up that pace they should be up to the middle of January, which is where you are. I wouldn't freak out just yet. Yours is coming.


I apologise I scrolled down to the K-1 bit a little quick. I spoke to the uscis women and she said they were still on novembers when I spoke to her on friday which why I'm slightly concerned.


Another example of the customer service agents having no idea what they are talking about.
The only information they can give you is what we can all see on the website. She probably looked at that and misread it as today they are working on November.

And not to scare you but:
Technically I think they are only supposed to give you the date of the oldest petitions they are working on. Until they've completed ALL November petitions they are supposed to still be telling you November. We know that's a load of b.s. since there are people here who've been waiting since July, if not earlier. They clearly don't have a running list of what ajudicators are working on now. There isn't even a way for the two to communicate.

imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-06-15 14:27:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsVSC saying K-1's being done as of November 25th
QUOTE (T0dd&Chr1ssy @ Jun 15 2009, 02:48 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
https://egov.uscis.g...e=serviceCenter


So thats put me 2 months further behind! 7 months and the 6+ month club here I come mad.gif

(p.s. How can they be this backlogged but still manage to do a lot in febuary! this just isn't fair its boarding on rediculous)


You're not two months behind. You're actually right on track. On April 30th (a month and a half ago) they were processing petitions from the end of November. So if they kept up that pace they should be up to the middle of January, which is where you are. I wouldn't freak out just yet. Yours is coming.
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-06-15 13:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsTravel Agency for the K1 Visa
Well I'd be skeptical first because it hasn't been called the INS for over 6 years now. It's called USCIS.

Second reason I'd be concerned is that they're flat out lying. No one with an NOA1 date in June is leaving the country now. Well, they might be leaving the country, but not with their K-1 visas...
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-07-30 07:52:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNeed ITIN for wife even though "Married, filing separately"?
QUOTE (PK and PK @ Aug 19 2009, 02:42 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Call up IRS tax hotline. They have some experts there that are quite helpful.


I tried calling that hotline back in February when I was preparing my taxes and they were completely useless. An hour and a half of getting switched up and down the chain of command and in the end they told me nothing that wasn't on the IRS website. Maybe you'll have more luck though.

In the end I filled out my federal and state returns online with TurboTax, filing as "married filing separately." Because my husband didn't have a social security number I couldn't e-file so I just mailed them in. Had no problems with my federal return- had my refund direct deposited a few weeks later. New York State sent me a letter a little while after I submitted the return saying something like, "We are missing some information, please tell us your spouse's SSN." I just wrote them a letter saying, "My husband is a non-resident alien. He has never lived or worked in the United States. My filing status is "married filing separately" and so his SSN is not required. My federal tax return was accepted without issue, please continue processing my return." Got my refund from them a few weeks after that. In retrospect I should've included that letter in the first place. I wouldn't waste time with the ITIN unless you need it for something else (adding your spouse to a bank accounts etc.).
imaishaFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-08-20 14:07:00