ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCalling for Your Help!
QUOTE (Shilps.Vik @ Mar 9 2009, 07:40 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
1) How long did the K-1 Visa process take for you to get, from start to finish?

Everyone's case is different so how long someone else took to get there matters very little with respect to your own case. There are security checks... rfe's... embassy delay's...etc. Right now you're looking at 4-6 months to your petition being approved and then probably a couple of months to interview in London. Keep in mind, this can, and often does, change.


2) Is the visa valid for 90 days or 6 months from date of issue in London?

A K-1 visa is valid for 6 months. this means you can use the visa for a one time entry to the US anytime before that 6 month period is up.

Once you are in the States, you have 90 days from the date of entry in which to marry your USC fiance.


3) Could you have asked for a specific date for the K-1 Visa to be vailid from (ie. From January 2010) ?

You can request to postpone your interview.

4) How long did it take for you to arrive in the USA from receiving the K-1 in London?

This varies with each couple. After the interview the visa is sent to you from the Embassy after a period of a few days. People enter the US at all different period after that depending on their own circumstances.
5) How long did your AOS and Green Card process take?

After you file for AOS (including AP and EAD) you can expect to wait at least 3 months for your GC. AP and EAD are a bit sooner right now. Again, timelines change all the time.


6) Are you happy in the USA! yes.gif


Any other thoughts/tips on handling the UK application much appreicated too.

MANY THANKS TO YOU ALL!

V.


The process is very much the same in London as it is in any other Embassy/Country/Consulate that we don't consider "high-fraud". You can visit the UK Regional forum here on VJ as well as visit the Embassy info/reviews link to find out more specific information regarding London. For everything else, simply refer to the GUIDES/FAQ/TIPs... at the top of the forums.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-09 10:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F Question No. 10
A copy from every page of your passport can be used to prove that you are a USC. You should be all set. smile.gif
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-09 11:57:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F Question No. 10
Each of you needs to fill out the G325 which will print 4 copies each of which should be signed.

As Thai stated above, there is a uscis memo that states an RFE should not be sent without an original signature but we have seen people get them for just that. Have her print them out and send them back to you.

good luck.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-01-28 10:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHow Do I Send my Packet to Pakistan? Accepted Couriers
All of these forms should be included in her Packet 3/Information Packet. PLUS more passport pics (of her), proof of on-going relationship, your I-134 and supporting evidence. Has she had her medical?

Here is a link with Embassy Info from Islamabad, Pakistan. Toward the top there is contact information. Ask them how they prefer the package to come.

Also toward the top you will see a link for reviews. Best to have a good read of that before her interview. wink.gif

Also check out the Regional forums here on VJ.

KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-09 12:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFinancial Requirements for Co Sponsor???
QUOTE (seesage @ Mar 4 2009, 01:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I am applying for the I-134 and may be using my mother as a co-sponsor due to current financial circumstances. My mother wants to be clear on how long she would be legally responsible for my fiance. From what others have posted here I assume it is until marriage? Afterwards when I apply for adjustment of status and the I-864 can I apply solely by myself? Assuming that I should be financially sound at that future time.


If you meet the financial requirements when filing for AOS then yes, you can sponsor your husband yourself.

As payxibka stated above, The I-134 is not binding on the sponsor(s).

Edited by KimandRuss, 04 March 2009 - 01:57 PM.

KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-04 13:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNon-Immigrant Visa- Why?
I should add that the Embassy will usually treat the K-1 as if it is an immigrant visa because the purpose, afterall, is to immigrate. wink.gif That's why the same forms are needed.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-09 13:18:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNon-Immigrant Visa- Why?
Well, the visa is what gets you in the Country. Your marriage is what allows you to adjust status and immigrate.

A K-1 visas are 'generally viewed' as having dual intent characteristics for the purpose of entering the U.S. You have non-immigrant status until you marry your USC fiance.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-09 13:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFinancial support proof at interview in Havana
The I-134 that you must send to your fiance is not a legally binding document. However, most Embassies require it. They will use the criteria set by the I-864 (which is filed at AOS and is legally binding) as a way to be sure that your fiance will not become a public charge once in the United States.

Most will require that you either meet the minimum requirement or that your income plus your liquid assets will. A co-sponsor can also be used at most Embassies.

I'm not sure if the Cuban Regional Thread is active but if you check out the Embassy Info/Reviews link above, you are sure to find the information you need.

2009 Federal Poverty Guideliens

More tips on the affidavit of support.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-09 12:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSufficient documentary proof of having met in person?
I agree with TBone, while it may not be required, it's certainly not usually going to hurt your case to front load your initial petition (unless, of course, you put something conflicting in there). At most higher fraud posts it most certainly should be the standard to do so. All of the paperwork will be forwarded to the Embassy with your NOA2/I-797. Do be sure to collect and save more supporting evidence for interview time as well.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-02-23 12:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSufficient Documents for Interview???
They will have the original I-129f package at the interview. The copy for your fiance is simply meant for her reference.

You do not need to send passport photos, however, she will require several.

You will want to send your I-134, supporting financial documents, evidence of on-going relationship. See the K-1 Guide for more information.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-09 15:59:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresVisit to the US
Nobody can say what you will encounter at POE. Bring what you do have and, if asked, tell the truth.

Just in case you do not know... USCIS list error on their part as guidelines meeting the Expedite Criteria. If they lost your petition and you have proof of that then call the number on that page. Good luck with that.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-09 15:53:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPlease Help!! Interview questions
I just noticed that the title to this post says Interview Questions.... if you're looking for advice on what he should say about all of this that answer is easy... the truth! If asked about any discrepencies on arrival/departure records, simply explain what happened.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-09 13:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPlease Help!! Interview questions
I think i'm a little confused. If he didn't overstay the date that was posted on his I-94 he's probably ok. If they issued him another visa afterwards he's probably ok.

However, if there was a home residency requirement along with that last J1 Visa he will need a waiver.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-09 13:26:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWrong mothers b-day. Now what?
I dont think this is going to create an issue.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-09 16:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCan he visit??
I just noticed subsequent questions were not asked by the OP but by another member.

If you marry abroad and cannot do DCF (now a 6 month residency req. at most Consulates) a CR-1 is recommended over a K-3.

see link i posted above
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-10 12:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCan he visit??
You do not need a b visa...i'm not even sure why it was mentioned here.

Canadian residents can stay in the US without a visa for up to 6 months.

You can marry him wherever you like BUT he can not stay in the US for more than the time allowed and he can not enter with the intent of immigrating.

So, he can not knowingly enter the US and adjust status based on marriage to a USC... well, he can... but it's illegal and punishable by a ban. wink.gif

If you marry him in Canada, it's likely he will be asked about this at POE and having a US spouse certainly sends up some red flags for the question of intent. Although it is possible and people do do this. wink.gif

If you marry him then you can not file for a K-1 visa as it is a fiance visa. Please read the guides and familiarize yourself with the process then make the choice that works best for your situation.

If you choose K-1 then yes, he can travel to visit you here in the US whilst you await the process. Canadians can do this without a visa. Many do just this BUT there is always the chance that he will be turned back ('allowed to withdraw his petition to enter the US') if the POE officer thinks there is intent to immigrate. That's why he must bring ties to Canada.

Visit the Canadian regional thread that Carla posted above and have a chat with those good folks. They can help you understand coming back and forth over the border from that Country. wink.gif

good luck whatever you choose and welcome to vj. smile.gif
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-10 12:17:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCan he visit??
Carla is correct.

This is one of the most common questions we get at VJ. A search here will get your more information than you could ever need. wink.gif

Certainly a fiance can visit the US during the process but it's important to understand that it is up to you to prove to the POE officer that you do not have intent to immigrate. As suggested, you will need to bring ties to your home Country to show you will be returning after your visit.

Canadian residents do not need a visa and they can stay up to 6 months in the US per year. It doesn't matter if it's all in one visit...what they care about is that you're spending more time in your home Country than you are in the US. Again, it is still up to the POE officer.

VWP travellers must now register their trip with ESTA and be approved there before departing. Entry to the US is still up to the POE officer who will decide whether or not to allow you in for your visit and how long. Up to 90 days.

Edited by KimandRuss, 10 March 2009 - 12:05 PM.

KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-10 11:58:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG-325a, letter of intent, and I-129F US Address Questions.
This is not correct.

The GUIDES here suggest original signatures for the G325 but there is a USCIS memo from long ago which states an RFE can not be issued, nor a case denied because there is no original signature.

That being said, we know that it appears not every adjuticator is on the same page with this (big surprise, I know). I have not seen an RFE issued for original signature in a long time but I still would not advise one not to get them if they can.

KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-10 11:33:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresnewbie question...do I need a lawyer
QUOTE (tallcoolone @ Mar 7 2009, 09:16 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Asking if one needs a lawyer and people stating their opinion is an "Opinion" not legal advise.



And, as stated many times above already, there is a huge difference between "if a, b & c are true... you probably do not need a lawyer" and... "you do not need a lawyer". Telling someone they do not need a lawyer IS legal advice.

I know this process inside and out but I would not for a moment suggest to know everything there is to know or to know each couple's circumstances and whether or not we know the entirety of their story. All we can do is point people toward the right information and offer our opinions...which we should state as such.

Just becaue you or I may THINK something does not make it fact.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-07 09:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresnewbie question...do I need a lawyer
QUOTE (soulknight @ Mar 7 2009, 05:24 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (KimandRuss @ Mar 6 2009, 07:00 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Start with this page and read through all of the links provided.

Use the K-1 Guide to help you prepare your petition and the flowchart will help you see the steps of the process clearly.

You've found VJ so you're already off to a great start. wink.gif

Is there a similar page for both a K3, CR1 and DCF visas. I am trying to bring my wife here and I would like to find out what the best option is and how to go about it.

Incidently, we had started a K1 visa with a lawyer that I really was not happy with. Now we are starting from scratch.
-Long story-



The guides for those types of visas are pinned to the top of the respective forum. I'd start with CR-1 unless you've been living in her Country for 6+ months. good luck to you.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-07 09:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresnewbie question...do I need a lawyer
nope, it shouldn't be but I suppose that's up to the lawyer you'll dealing with. Is your NOA2 being mailed to his/her office? You can simply request all of your documentation back and that the address be changed. Chances are that wont be done at USCIS leval but you can always do it at NVC/Embassy stage of the process. The one document you will want to be sure you get is the NOA2 (I-797) as it will be needed when the beneficiary adjusts status.

good luck
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-06 19:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresnewbie question...do I need a lawyer
QUOTE
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A lawyer can not even offer legal advice on VJ.

On a more personal level, I would hate to be the one who said to a stranger 'no dont use a lawyer' not knowing all the facts of the case and they had serious issues. While in this case, like most, it is likely not necessary...this is not true for everybody.

Besides, lets face it, some people need assistance because they have IMBRA issues, overstays, criminal history...etc.... some may just not have the comprehension skills to deal with what is required.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-06 19:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresnewbie question...do I need a lawyer
Welcome.

It's against the Terms of Service at VJ to recommend not using legal service but... you can complete the process yourselves and save money and perhaps even added frustration. wink.gif

Start with this page and read through all of the links provided.

Use the K-1 Guide to help you prepare your petition and the flowchart will help you see the steps of the process clearly.

You've found VJ so you're already off to a great start. wink.gif
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-06 19:00:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresRFE - Is it Good or Bad
All pages are for when it's used in place of your birth certificate to prove US citizenship. Nothing to worry about Thai. wink.gif

KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-09 10:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresvisa expiration?
A K-1 visa has a validity of 6 months. She can use the visa as soon as it's in her hands to enter the US. Once she uses it you then have 90 days in which to marry.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-10 11:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhat kind of background check does the USCIS conduct
Security Checks
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-11 11:10:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresList of required documents for interview - previous visa applications
It doesn't matter where the question is asked, the answer is simple... if asked about it, tell the truth.

Whether there is documentation of it or not, as long as no laws were broken a denied visitor's will not effect her K-1 Visa.

Lying, however, will. wink.gif


KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-11 14:53:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresIs my lawyer right?
'Packet 3' is normally sent to the beneficiary but you will have to ask your lawyer to be certain.

Each Embassy can be very different in how they handle the information/interview packets.

Please see the PI Regional forum for instructions specific to Manilla.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-11 14:48:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestions regarding the I-129F and G-325A
The example forms are a great resource.

If your hometown doesn't fit, simply write it in after you print it out.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-11 14:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHer letter of intent to marry
Letter of intent does not need to be notorized. It just needs to have her original signature. So should the G-325 biographical forms (x4). She should mail the above documents along with a passport picture for you to submit with the I-129f petition.

Please read the Guides and review the checklist.

Edited by KimandRuss, 11 March 2009 - 04:07 PM.

KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-11 16:06:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCan petitioner accompany benificiarly to the interview
Not every Embassy is created equally. At many it really doesn't matter one way or the other. Some may not even 'allow' the USC petitioner to attend. At some it is very highly recommended.

Even if you are not allowed in the interview, at higher fraud posts it's always a plus for the petitioner to be able to tell the CO that their USC fiance is actually in the Country and prove that by at least showing their passport.

Your best bet is to talk with the folks in the sawasdee thread and ask them. wink.gif


KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-12 11:11:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhat does the consulate receive? K-1
Your entire I-129f petition and supporting documents will get sent through the NVC and onto the Embassy for your K-1 Visa interview.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-12 12:02:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresletter of intent to marry
QUOTE (sofijordan @ Mar 12 2009, 01:57 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
thank you for your answer, I told my fiance about the lawyer before but didnt wanna listen she made so many mistakes anyways can you please tell how this letter of intent to marry should be ? Original G325a does it mean it has to be hand written??? or just signed that s°°°pid lawyer said my fiance can sign it for me there I said NO WAY !


I think that rather than taking all this time to bash lawyers we should focus our attention on helping the OP from here.... can't go back in time. wink.gif

For the OP...

Here is the Example letter of intent.

"original" g325 means it needs to (should) have an original signature. Be advised, there are 4 pages and each must be signed.

use the K-1 checklist to be certain that your lawyer included everything else with your petition. If you scroll a bit further down on the page you will find more information about what to send after the petition is approved. Read through the FAQ above and educate yourself to the process so that you can avoid further delays.

good luck to you.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-12 11:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHELP: Cancelation of K1
Cancelling the petition now for personal reasons usually wont have an effect on future petitions. You simply explain the reasons behind the previous petition when sending another and file a waiver if requested by IMBRA laws. Keep in mind that if you are dealing with a higher fraud Country this may bring added scrutiny when at the interview stage.

A K-1 visa once issued has a validity period of 6 months. This means she must enter the U.S. within 6 months of the issue date of the visa itself.

The approved petition itself (NOA2/I-797) has a validity of 4 months. This means the beneficiary should be interviewed within 4 months of the approval. However, we all know it doesn't always happen that fast. It's very common for an Embassy/Consulate to extend the validity period as you are awaiting an interview date from them.

It is also sometimes possible to request a delay for the the interview yourself.

You must also keep in mind that an RFE and/or AP can hold you up at any stage of this process and for any length of time.

good luck whatever you decide.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-02-23 15:18:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F & G-325A Help
One 'None' or 'N/A' is fine for each question. You do not need to write it in every empty spot.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-10 11:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresvaccination records - not requested
You would be best served to ask your question in the Regional forums.

Most people do get their vaccinations before coming over I suppose because the K-1 is treated as if it were an immigrant visa. It's the same as the financial requirements. The I-134 is filled out simply so that the Embassy can detect whether or not the beneficiary poses a financial risk when it comes to adjust status.

hope it all works out for you
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-12 12:08:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHow can I cancel the K-1 Visa?
Send a notorized/certified letter to USCIS and DOS

Edited by KimandRuss, 13 March 2009 - 01:15 PM.

KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-03-13 13:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFilling out 129F form
Best of luck to you... and much patience. wink.gif
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-02-24 16:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFilling out 129F form
If you can fit it in the box you can simply add a sentance or two ...this is what some people do and it has worked just fine.... ie; "we met online and have travelled to see each other three times in 2005, 2006, 2007.."

Because we had such a long history and because I put together our petition like a book in the order of our cover letter , we typed out a one page dated timeline explaining where we had travelled together and referenced the attachment on the I-129f. We then included just a couple of pictures from each of those visits on photo paper and referenced the trips as added proof.

Not sure what to tell you about your book... but you know what they say about opinions... everybody has one. wink.gif I can tell you that from being here for sometime now that a simple answer has worked just as well as a detailed explanation.
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-02-24 14:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFilling out 129F form
It can't hurt (usually) to add it but it's certainly not required at this point. 100 pages of printed messages is way too much even at interview stage and especially through Canada. wink.gif You seem to have a lot of evidence supporting the fact that you have met in person so i'd save it or simply send a sample.

We had 10 years of communication so what I did was just take a screen shot of some 'history' of our chats... all the email messages I had in my inbox from years ago and then again and then the most recent... they weren't needed in the end. wink.gif

good luck to you!
KimandRussFemaleNew Zealand2009-02-24 13:48:00