ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresage difference
QUOTE (olesea @ Feb 24 2009, 12:34 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
No wont be any problem as long as you love eachother and everything is for real...
We have 12 year difference and was no problem with my visa... i fall in love with my husband over and over every day of my life and thats wonderful...

Good luck


It's very important to remember that we are posting with people from all over the world and although most of us can get through this without a hitch, what some people experience at interview stage is pure hell. To say it wont be a problem (especially in places like the Middle East) is just not an accurate assumption.

Some folks from Middle Eastern Countries get put in AP for years. There are home visits, there are interviews with friends, neighbors....etc. Getting a visa in China or HCMC (just to name a couple) is almost always an uphill battle and huge fight all the way.... it's not all as cut and dry for everybody.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-02-24 12:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresage difference
As mentioned above, this has everything to do with the Embassy/Consulate you'll be dealing with at interview. A search on VJ of this topic will bring you more posts than you can read. wink.gif If the age difference is considered culturally 'taboo' and/or if you are dealing with a higher fraud Country who is looking for anything to add extra scrutiny at interview stage, then your best bet is to prepare your best for an uphill battle. But, for most, this isn't going to be a problem.

FWIW... I am 9 years older than Russell and it wasn't a problem at all in NZ... but that's NZ. wink.gif
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-02-24 12:34:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG-325A Photo
No idea about how picky they are with AOS photos. If you've already sent it, there's really nothing that you can do. If you get an RFE, simply have them done again. wink.gif


KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-14 11:39:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG-325A Photo
laughing.gif it's for us USC, sorry. I carry it mostly for roadside assistance but they have several services.

AAA
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2008-06-29 10:44:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG-325A Photo
Just thought i'd mention ....If you're a AAA platinum member they will take them for no fee. wink.gif
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2008-06-29 10:32:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresplanning to visit fiance
This is most dependant on the Embassy you are dealing with. Check your portals link and the Embassy Info and Reviews liniks at the top of the forum to find out how beneficial it is for the petitioner to be there vs. proof of on-going relationship.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-04 14:39:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCan I visit my Boyfriend in USA while my K1 visa is pending?
It's important to note that VWP travellers must apply for ESTA before departure now. While this adds some extra security to the process it may, or may not, warn of you of any pending issues that may arise at the border. It's not a guarantee even if you are approved for travel. The final decision is still up to the CBP officer.

If you have many recent or lengthy trips into the US, do not bring enough proof of ties to your own Country, or if the officer simply thinks you are intending to immigrate, you will be 'allowed to remove your petition to enter the US' and you will be sent back home immediately. As long as no laws were broken this normally has no effect on your K-1

That being said, many people do travel in and out of the US during the process. It's probably the most widely discussed topic here. Most do get in fine but many of us have had issues as well.

good luck.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-14 11:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAbout to send in I-129F petition.... checklist....
QUOTE (eyoa @ Mar 5 2009, 11:10 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Not to be difficult, but you're not going to get an RFE for submitting too much. If they don't require it, then you don't need to include it.


If you send so much that the information somehow conflicts itself you may very well receive an rfe.

More importantly, it is sometimes strongly recommended to front load the initial petition with information because at some of the higher fraud Consulates the decision is made before the beneficiary even arrives for the interview. So, when dealing with certain places, it's better to include proof of on-going relationship when filing the I-129f.

OP... the letter of intent is asked for in the directions for the I-129f. Some people don't receive RFE's for not including one and some do... hard to say. If you've not sent your petition out yet, I would recommend getting them together (original signature) and including them.

As far as putting together the petition. A clip or folder is fine. When the package arrives at USCIS it is then taken apart, the check removed and the rest is put into a standard format for storage. So, it really doesn't matter how you put it together as it's going to be taken apart soon after it arrives.



KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-06 08:04:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresMoving to another country after filing
A K-1 is for someone wishing to marry and obtain legal residence in the U.S. based on marriage to a USC. Once your fiance is here and you are married you can apply for AOS but she can not leave the Country until she has AP...well, she can leave...she just can't get back in. wink.gif

Her residency in Canada is an entirely different process.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-17 11:38:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWondering about dates NOA2 and NVC
You will most likely get lots of documents stating lots of things. We got three letters stating our approved petition was sent off with 3 different dates, when we were actually stuck at NVC for checks for 3 weeks. wacko.gif As long as it's on it's way, or likely already at the Embassy by now, you're good to go. Worry little about the indiscretions... there are many. wink.gif

congratulations and good luck with the rest.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-17 12:11:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureshow to track the money order if the USCIS cashed it or not
Personal checks are processed electronically. No delay in choosing this option.

You don't need to track your M.O. All you will need is your case # EAC or WAC to login to the uscis.gov website to track your petition. Normally this number is stamped onto the back of your personal check so many of us are able to view it via our online banking system. However, some must wait for the hardcopy NOA1 (I-797) in the mail for the number. Be advised, this database is a courtesy and is often incorrect. wink.gif

congratulations on getting started and best of luck with the remainder of the process.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-17 12:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresScared
There probably aren't many of us who can't relate to you. Being on opposite sides of the globe makes it that much worse. wink.gif The looooong, loooong plane rides and expense to fly is hard to justify whilst awaiting the process and all the costs involved with it. However, debt seems a small price to pay to be in the arms of the one you love, I know.

I could have paid my mortgage off with the money we've spent travelling back and forth and living together on only one income. We were separated for a year after having lived together for 2. He left a very lucrative position just so he could come spend time with me. It wasn't easy... I wont lie. But in the end you will find that it was worth every step.

Decide the best option for the two of you and get moving! While it seems daunting, and is, it wont be the hardest thing you deal with in your life. wink.gif

You're already a step ahead just by finding VJ and all of the resources it offers. Get the packet together and send it off...then you're on your way!
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-17 11:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWorking on a K1 Visa...
As stated above, your ss# is yours for life.

However, you need authorization from the department of homeland security to work after entering on a K-1 visa. You get this by filing to adjust status. Included in the price of adjusting status ($1,010) are your EAD (employment authorization document) and AP (advanced parole /travel).
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-17 11:29:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWas I scammed
Hopefully we all take something away from this... and that is that even though you're paying someone to do something for you it is ultimately still up to you to be sure that person is doing it right! Hiring someone off the streets... never recommended. wink.gif

This process can be completed by the majority of us without any additional help but some people most certainly do need a good qualified immigration attorney for whatever reason. For someone to blatenly tell them they do not is careless and destructive advice to give.


KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-17 12:25:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureshow much does the whole journey cost
medical fees are not always $213.35 (not sure where that came from). The visa fee is always $131USD but medical fees can and do vary quite a bit depending on the Country and even on the panel physician chosen in that Country. It can also vary depending on whether the beneficiary has had vaccinations required or will need them, xray costs...etc...etc....etc. There are many factors that can change the costs involved for medicals.

Nobody can give you a definitive figure for the entire process outside the government fee's involved. But it will cost an initial $455 for the I-129f petition, medical fees with the panel physician, $131 for visa fee, travel expenses...etc. Once your fiance is here and you are married you will then file to Adjust status, another $1010. Two years later comes the 10 year green card.... then naturalization if you so choose. It never ends!

good luck!
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-21 12:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-94
Do yourself a favor and read the instructions for each form then the K-1 Guides & FAQ here. Then have a look at the example forms to help you put your package together. All of that will answer most questions for you. It will also help you to prepare for whats to come. wink.gif

List his current address as where you plan to live since you have no idea yet.

good luck and welcome to VJ


KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-21 13:10:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHermosillo - valid for K1?
If you are in the Country legally then yes, you can interview wherever you are at the time. However, you will want to watch this closely as the process moves along. Many times the approved petition is accidentally sent to the original Country of the applicant and not the chosen Embassy. There is a spot to make this request on the initial forms but after your I-129f is approved at uscis level you will want to contact NVC asap to be certain it's being sent to the right place.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-17 12:18:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHermosillo - valid for K1?
QUOTE
Discretion has to do with residency.
good.gif

It is not necessary for the USC to attend the K-1 interview however, each Embassy is very different in how they handle the interview process. At a higher fraud post it's often recommended that both people attend the interview, or at least be there for support, to help show the CO that the relationship is bona-fide and not a scam to get a green card. This is recommended for many of the higher fraud posts such as China, HCMC, Middle-Eastern Countries...etc.

In London, this isn't normally as much of an issue. It's pretty cut and dry. Juarez deals with a lot of initial visa denials much in part to their proximity to the US and illegal crossing/residency, etc, but im not clear on whether it would be a more difficult Embassy to deal with without previous issues.

You can view the regional boards here and/or read through the Embassy reviews/info links above to find out more about Juarez.


KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-17 12:06:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHermosillo - valid for K1?
Juarez is where you would be interviewed for a K-1 in Mexico. Because they may have more 'immigrants' to deal with does not mean they work faster. wink.gif

You can be interviewed in Juarez if you have legal residence there but, as stated above, it's not likely to speed up the process for you.

I understand that you would like to be closer to each other but there are no guarantee's you will be able to get back and forth over the border either. You will have immigrant intent simply for having a US fiance. Can it be done? Sure. Have many of us been stopped and turned away for that very reason?... yup. sad.gif

You will need police reports from every Country you have lived in for more than 6 months since the age of sixteen when you get to the stage where you apply for the K-1 at the Embassy, regardless of any checks you've had in the past. Please read through the GUIDES and FAQ at the top of these boards for more info on the process.

good luck and welcome. smile.gif
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-17 11:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI'm new to this and need advice!
QUOTE
He was deported in 2000 and returned illegally in 2001


I don't think anyone is jumping to conclusions. Illegally = enter without inspection (EWI). Happens quite a bit actually.

If he was 'deported' in 2000 for being here illegally in 1999, he did not re-enter with a valid visa the following year....
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-21 14:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI'm new to this and need advice!
Here's a good link from immigrate2us that should be helpful.

I still believe it's highly unlikely but wish you the best.


KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-21 13:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI'm new to this and need advice!
Alens who entered the US illegally (EWI) are usually not eligible to file for Adjustment of Status. "overstay" on a valid visa is much different than EWI.

If he leaves he will incur (at least) a 10 year ban.

Immigrate2US.net has some great resources for the I-601 waiver.


KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-21 13:04:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresReally worried now
I never heard of and can't find a google resource for a St. Jebans in Vermont. I wouldn't worry about it too much. USCIS gets a lot of mail. wink.gif As stated above, you should be able to get your # from the back of your check soon. Congratulations on getting started. smile.gif
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-21 13:57:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresOh, what to do!
QUOTE (Tmac @ Apr 22 2009, 02:06 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
For anyone else that encounters the situation there are certain circumstances in which the USCIS will approve an expedite, those can be foundHere
If you notice, military deployments don't really fall under any of those categories. I called the info helpline for mil members (above) and the person that I talked to told me that they have granted expedites based on military deployments. Can't hurt to try!


It's pretty much common knowledge around here that military expedites are about the only kind that go through. They happen quite often. I've personally seen just two medical expedites in the years i've been here but these were severe medical reasons. I've also seen just two humanatarian expedites but honestly, I think those folks just got lucky because many do not get granted. wink.gif

QUOTE (Hugglebuggles @ Apr 22 2009, 02:46 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Don't they e-mail the USC with important information about the case? I'm not sure about RFE's, but when our NOA2 was approved, he was sent an e-mail indicating the change in their system. You can also call DOS and receive updates on your case... So not having the physical piece of paper saying what is what is not that big of an obstacle. But as the others said, it may be wise to have everything sent to the address of a family member, to insure it is safe, and then just change your address with USCIS later. I think it would be smart to start now! When he's back in the US you could be all ready to join him and start your new life Good luck!!


No, they do not email the USC with important information about the case. If you choose to register with the uscis.gov website they will alert you when your status has changed via email but this is merely a database and it can be checked from anywhere. Keep in mind, it's often wrong. wink.gif Nothing else is sent via email.

RFE's (if any) will go to the postal address listed and they will need to be handled and responded to. As I mentioned above, the NOA2 (I-797) should be the only important document coming after approval ...and it's very expensive to replace if lost.

No need to change the USC address with uscis at a later date. After approval the petition is sent to NVC where it's sent out to the Embassy the beneficiary will be applying for the visa with. You can then call DOS to find out if/when the approved petition has arrived at the Embassy, whether a p3 has been sent out and if/when an interview has been scheduled. All new paperwork (packet 3/info packet) is then filled out to apply for the visa so the new address/info can simply be put on that.

Congratulations on getting your petition sent out! Good luck!



KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-22 12:29:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresOh, what to do!
Because he is in the military and has deployment orders, he is eligible for the military expedite.

USCIS offers a toll-free military help line, exclusively for members of the United States military and their immediate families. USCIS customer service specialists are available to answer calls during regular duty hours.

Toll-Free Number:1-877-CIS-4MIL (1-877-247-4645)
Hours of Service: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. CST (excluding federal holidays)
After Hours: After-hours callers will receive an email address (militaryinfo.nsc@dhs.gov) that they can use to contact USCIS for assistance.
Special Instructions: Identify yourself as a member of the Armed Forces or a family member to expedite your call.

Callers can get help with immigration-related information, including:

Track Form N-400 application for naturalization
Notify USCIS of a new mailing address or duty station
Check the status of an application or petition
Information on bringing a spouse, fiancé(e) or adopted child to the U.S.
Obtain posthumous citizenship for a deceased member of the Armed Services
Submit an application for expedited processing

Service members and their families stationed in the United States or overseas may access the help line using the toll-free number, through their base telephone operator or using the Defense Switched Network (DSN).

Source: USCIS

You are correct to assume that the only piece of mail he's likely to receive that he will need to respond to is an RFE from USCIS. Perhaps use a US address that you are sure someone will be able to get the mail at? Note that you will need to file your petition with the service center listed for the mailing address. Also be sure that whomever is responsible for his mail knows that the NOA2(I-797) approval notice is an important document that you will need at AOS time.

If you can get the petition started immediately, you are likely to have all of this taken care of before his deployment in August.

If you receive the visa you will then have 6 months to enter the Country.

good luck.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-21 12:03:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresTranslating letters, chats, etc?
USCIS Document Translation Policy
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-22 12:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 about to expire yet no social security. Help!
Good points have been made that will hopefully help others coming here to read this thread. Now, I would ask that we please stop with the back and forth and get back to topic.

No matter what the job, we are always going to find people who are unfamiliar with the process and who don't know all the ins and outs about everything. Should they? Yes, certainly... but it happens everywhere. Criticism isn't going to make them do their jobs any better... knowledge, however, might.

So, instead of verbally bashing people, it's probably a better idea that we do our best here to help arm people who must deal with this with the correct information that they can then take with them.

As rebecca stated, it's best to wait at least two weeks after entrance to the US to be sure you are in the system. But, as has been also stated, it can very much depend on your POE. It's also a good idea not to wait until you are too close to the expiration of your I-94. wink.gif

Also, I think we've learned that no matter what a County website might say with regards to marriage and what is required, a valid I-94/passport are usually valid identification for someone without a ss#.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-22 13:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 about to expire yet no social security. Help!
This has already been addressed and the OP has his answer. wink.gif

Although the website states that a ss# is required, the requirement can sometimes be waived if the person is here with legal status.


KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-21 14:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 about to expire yet no social security. Help!
good.gif

Edited by KimandRuss, 20 April 2009 - 04:47 PM.

KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-20 16:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 about to expire yet no social security. Help!
Marriage laws are State dependant. Some States require each party to have a SS#.

I agree with Karin, go to another State to get married.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-20 16:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPossible denial in K
longdistancelove, you are going to want to visit the IMBRA forum and ask your IMBRA related questions there.


KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-22 12:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresTime of Noa2
We got ours after 6pm on a week night. I remember a poll taken a while back (last year I think) that showed people getting the email at all times of the day and night, every day of the week.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-22 16:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK1 VISA /beneficiary in ITALY
QUOTE (Philosykos @ Apr 22 2009, 02:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Apr 22 2009, 07:41 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Yes. First it is "bienvenuto" smile.gif


Ouch. Not true. Check the dictionary, Gary... wink.gif


corretta! wink.gif benvenuto = welcome (oh my nonno would be so proud! laughing.gif )
Ciao strega, welcome to VJ. smile.gif

As stated above, you can find other Italian/USC couples in the portals link above. I don't believe we have an Italian section set up in the Regional forums here on VJ but feel free to start up a thread in that area! That is what most of us do. wink.gif
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-22 13:17:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresTourist VISA during the wait for K1.
If the CBP agent believes you have intent to immigrate, which by having a US fiance you do wink.gif, there will be extra scrutiny placed on your admission into the US on any kind of visa. You can be denied entry due to your intent to immigrate (plan to enter, marry and stay) no matter what kind of visa you're trying to get in with. Ask me how I know?? wink.gif

As mentioned many times above, it is illegal to enter the US with a visitor's visa and stay. Marriage and immigration are two different things. You are not simply allowed to stay in the United States because you are married to a USC. You need a valid visa to stay in the US.

If you do as you are suggesting and enter (whether the I-129f is in process or not) then marry and try to adjust status you will have committed immigration fraud which is punishable by a ban to the United States. How will they know? You are interviewed when you adjust status. Having already filed a I-129f doesn't help... in fact it shows that intent was there when you entered the Country.

KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-20 16:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG-325A Question
If you can't fit it in the box (the '+') ....then print the form and write it in by hand. It's this way for all of us.

For things like employment/residence.. if you need additional space simply create an attachment and note that attachment on the form where you answer the question.

Fill out the address section as honestly as you can. If you were in the States on a J visa then state your residence in the States during that time period. Be sure to leave no time period unaccounted for. As a side note... and a just in case.... wink.gif be sure you do not have the home residency requirement with your J visa. This should be stated on your visa as well as the forms that accompanied it. If you do have HRR then you will need to file a waiver to overcome this stipulation.

Use the example forms here on VJ (link above) to help you fill the rest out.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-22 15:59:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F
Letters of Intent are also stated in the instructions for the I-129f...

QUOTE
B. Provide original statements from you and your fiancé(e) whom you plan to marry within 90 days of his or her admission, and copies of any evidence you wish to submit to establish your mutual intent;

KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-24 12:29:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresGERMANY TO THE USA
agreed! TY wink.gif
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-24 12:41:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresGERMANY TO THE USA
Having an opinion about something is one thing but it is unwise for any of us to simply suggest that someone does not need an attorney.

We don't know other people's circumstances, we don't know if there is anything in their past that may require a waiver or if any IMBRA laws come into play...etc. I would not want to be the one who offered advice that could hurt another couple because of what I didn't know.

The VJ TOS specifically state that VJ is not to be used as a substitute for legal advice. Have your opinion but state that it is just that.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-24 12:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F
As an added note regarding the example letters.... you not only have to change the names but you must change some of the wording if you're the USC as well.

It states you will marry the other person within 90 days of your arrival to the US... USC is already in the US. I made that mistake when we filed and didn't catch it until after. I doubt it's a big deal but just good for people to know. wink.gif
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-04-24 12:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresDivorce & Petition Fears
Divorce laws are State specific so be sure your divorce is FINAL.

In Massachusetts, for instance, there is a 30 day wait after court and then a 90 day nisi period. Making the final decree 120 days after court appearance. I could not file the petition until that day... even tho we had been separated for years. wink.gif So, that's what I did... the very moment I was able to pick up my decree of absolute, I filed the petition. My new husband is here in the States with me now. He was asked about my relationship with my ex husband and about how our relationship began before I was actually divorced but simply explained that the marriage was over long before the divorce was final.

It should not create any issues for you in London. In some places a short relationship and/or recent divorce can throw up a red flag and make the interview process that much more difficult but we usually find this occuring in higher fraud posts such as China, HCMC, middle east...etc.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-01-30 11:14:00