ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureshow to put it all together- K1

Can someone lead me to a post regarding how to put the K-1 packet together? I.e. I see the guide has an order it should be put in. Should I just put all 300+ sheets one behind the other, paperclipping certain items or did people use clamps etc.

Also, it says to put passport sized photo in a ziplock bag and attach to a sheet of paper and then put that sheet of paper behing G325a. Attach how to a sheet of paper.... with a stapler or paperclip?

1 passport photo each, correct?

Thanks


I sent mine using the ACCO fasteners. They are two hole punched at the top and they are approved by the USCIS.
They go through your file, and flip the pages up, not sideways.

I put the passport photos for myself and my fiancee in a separate ziploc bag. i attached them by stapling the ziploc bag (not the pics) to a sheet of paper and placed that paper behind each of our g325a forms, respectively.
hope it helps.

Edited by Chirag&Amrita, 25 April 2011 - 03:55 PM.

Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-04-25 15:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureshow to predict where the application will be forwarded

You don't predict. Its listed on USCIS.


If you live in Alaska, American Samoa, Arizona, California, Colorado, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming = California Service Center

If you live in Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Washington, D.C., Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, U.S. Virgin Islands, and West Virginia = Vermont Service Center


I thought this information didn't apply since a while back... which is why I raised my question.
Anyhow, we shall see in a couple of days where my application ends up.

Thx
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-04-26 20:58:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureshow to predict where the application will be forwarded
Hi All,

I am waiting for the NOA1.
I am a New Yorker and have addressed all letter(s) and cover sheets within my packet to the Vermont Service Center (VSC).

What is the likelihood of my application being forwarded to the California Service Center?
Any other New Yorker's out there who can shout out which USCIS Facility ended up receiving their K1 Petition for adjudication?

Not that I would complain if it ended up at California (considering that they are chugging along faster than at CSV), it would make all my letters addressed to Vermont Service Center look moot and obsolete.

Please advise.

Thx.

Edited by Chirag&Amrita, 26 April 2011 - 08:27 PM.

Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-04-26 20:26:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureshighlighters??

Thoughts about using a highlighter on dates and names on the copied boarding passes, passport entry and exit stamps, and hotel invoices so the adjudicator can quickly find what they need on each page?

1 passport photo for petitioner and 1 passport photo for beneficary, correct?


I too highlighted all that i thought was important.
travel dates, numbers which were important in my call logs to my fiance (I had to use entire invoice so couldnt just filter out the rest)
i also highlighted things like records on my bank statement, items which were travel related in my credit card statements.

anything that helps them identify the meaning full stuff in the proof that contains more than just the relevant things.
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-04-26 21:38:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiancée vs Spouse Visa at VSC

Absolutely correct. I got my NOA2 today (only took 191 days:). If I knew ahead of time that it would take this long, I would've moved abroad, got married, and done a I-130 DCF . It really hurts to be apart this long. VSC has picked up big time though so yours probably won't take as long.


I apologize if the above sounds like Im all hopeless because Im truly not. I just felt a bit let down, and Im sure several other VJers are also feeling this, probably more than I do. I just hope your part about VSC having picked up does continue for a period of time. I really really hope so.... keeping fingers crossed.

thx
chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-05-04 23:08:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiancée vs Spouse Visa at VSC
Hi All,

Firstly I am about to rant (yes, its still an early phase in my fiancee's K1 Visa journey but still i need to vent).
I find this to be a bit pathetic.

At some point back starting November 2010, the processing time at the VSC started rising for K1 visa process.
The way it stands, looking at the stats page on VJ, the I-130 Petition has a lower average waiting period between NOA1 and NOA2 (146) days as opposed to the K1 waiting period for NOA1 - NOA2 (169 days, and potentially rising). I understand that each case is different, and everyone files their application in different ways. Some send just the bare minimum, some send the whole she-bang of proofs galore.

I think this timeline really hurts those who want to file the K1 petition thinking that they can be with their fiancé(e) faster if they considered the K1. I am one of those.
If by any means, the time spent at the embassy/consulate (post-approval) makes any difference, and they do give a preference to K1s as opposed to spouse visas, this difference of one month (waiting period over at the embassy) is made up for by the difference in processing time at the USCIS. Ultimately, one ends up having to wait the same amount of time (judging by current stats).
Note this only applies to VSC. If you're at the CSC, you are fine. Infact you are better than fine.

Not to mention that upon being issued a K1, the foreign fiancé(e) still needs to file for AOS, which is a whopping $1070. On top of this, the fiancee can not legally work anywhere either. With the I-130, he/she can start working the same day they arrive. I wish had looked at the timeline stats in a bit more detail.

I miss her too much to be away from her for such a long time. It just boggles my mind. I just hope that the stats start improving and that the VSC turns it around otherwise the entire reason behind the K1 visa is lost.

Sigh...
end of rant.

Chirag
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-05-04 15:26:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCalifornia service center NOA2

our NOA1 was Nov. 8 at CSC - we also have yet to receive anything. I placed a service request and they said we are in extensive background checks and that I can expect to hear within the next 6 months...


Ouch that hurts!!! I don't understand why extensive background checks would require 6 more months. I would involve a senator and congressperson.

thx,
Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-05-09 14:07:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiancee letter of intent

I'm wondering why you are asking...the addres in the reply is accurate, but are sending in the Letter Of Intent due to an RFE for your petition. I wouldn't just mail a letter to the USCIS. They will not know what it's for.
I included my finacee's letter of intent with my submission. Did you do the same or are you trying to add this to your package?


Yeah something doesnt quite add up, the timeline says it was sent in 2009.
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-05-12 15:02:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresOK to visit beneficiary's country (India) for ring ceremony?

Thanks everyone for your responses. Chigs, looks like we applied at right about the same time, so we should stay in touch and see how the process goes for both of us.


Sure thing.
Create and update your timeline at VJ so that we can share each other's status. :)
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-05-10 14:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresOK to visit beneficiary's country (India) for ring ceremony?

Hey all,

Do you all know if it is OK to visit the beneficiary's country (in this case, India) during the I-129F review process to have an "engagement ring ceremony/party" with relatives? We are already engaged (did a ceremony called the "Roka"), but an "engagement ceremony" is still usually done to make things more official between the 2 families, and would involve both of us exchanging rings (there are many ceremonies in the whole Hindu wedding process, I am finding out, heh). This ceremony is *not* a wedding. We are following all the rules and will only be getting married in the U.S., after she gets her Fiancee Visa to come here.

Has anyone done this in the past? Of course legally it would be fine, since the ceremony is not in any way a wedding-- but we want to be sure to avoid doing anything that USCIS might misinterpret and then cause a delay in the whole process. We are a bit afraid that USCIS could misinterpret this ceremony since it would involve both of us exchanging rings-- this is how it is done in India for an engagement, but of course here in the U.S. the man gets a ring only at the actual wedding. All of our relatives in India, of course, really want us to do the ceremony since they won't be able to come to our wedding in the U.S., and this will at least give them something fun to attend in India.

Thanks so much for any insight.


I would say we are both in a similar boat. Except we didn't have an official "Roka" kind of thing. Ours was a very elaborate ring ceremony event in March 2011. It actually did involve a priest since my family being Gujarati and my fiance's being Rajasthani/Punjabi, we have a tradition where we must first perform a Gud & Dhania ritual (Gud, or brown sugar for sweetness and Dhania for the calmness within the relationship). Long story short, we did have a priest perform a small ritual, but no pheras. However, since we had garlands and the ceremony being pretty grand, we avoided sending too many pics from the engagement ceremony that could be flagged as potential marriage to the USCIS.

Since I just filed the I-129F on her behalf, we won't know for a while how things fare. Although, I'm fairly confident we are pretty solid on evidence and proof of meeting (without making it seem like ours was like a wedding). We didn't include any pics in which we were shown putting rings on each other's finger. I would say that the only difference in our case is that we filed after the grand engagement ceremony, you're going to be doing so while your I-129F is in the works.
As long as you're not getting married, all is well.

Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-05-09 22:32:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAny India Jan. Filers Gotten NOA2 Yet?

I've been seeing on here that Vermont Jan. filers have been getting their NOA2's this month, quicker than the 5-month "goal." Just wondering if that included anybody filing for a beneficiary from India (haven't seen posts from any such people yet). I am curious to see if the quicker turnaround applies to us too. I myself am an April filer, so I'm not expecting to get mine for some time, but if VSC is turning these around for everybody more quickly, that would be great!


+1
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-05-18 14:44:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhat can beneficiary do while waiting for NOA2?

Hi - here's a link that you can start looking at. Download the packet 3 and packet 4 instructions. You can get everything ready except for passport police clearance and medical report. My fiancee tried to get the pcc but they wouldn't let her until she had the interview letter in her hand....and same thing goes for the medical report.

http://mumbai.uscons...ov/ivforms.html

The first thing you should do is get the police clearance from the city of residence...This is different from the passport police clearance.

Hope this helps..

M.


M,

Im in the same boat as boomba.
You ended up confusing me with the above post of yours. Whats the difference between the police clearance certificate and the passport police clearance? I think they only ask for the police certificate.
Can you clarify?

Thanks,
Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-05-23 13:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresMumbai Consulate K1 Visa Wait

I sent my packet 3 to Mumbai on 26th April, on 2nd may we got the appointment letter. My interview date was on 20th May. Hope this helps. Feel free to contact me with any k1 related question as I am just done with my interview.


Wow that seems to be super quick... I'll reach out to you at some point in time as Im sure I'll be looking for some helpful tips.

According to your timeline, you've still not received your NOA2. Right now, you're looking at a 4-5 month wait at the USCIS to receive an approval of your 129F petition.

Mumbai is pretty quick, once the last packet has been logged you should receive an interview appointment within two to three weeks.

Right now you're looking at an October interview date.



Thanks for the input. I'm a bit at ease now. It seems certain embassies just take forever, I'm glad mumbai is not one of them.


Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-05-25 14:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresMumbai Consulate K1 Visa Wait
Im trying to get an idea of how long it takes the Mumbai embassy to schedule interviews for K1s once the approved petition is in the system (assuming all Packet 3/4 is sent).
I'm trying to gauge our waiting period.
If anyone has gone through the Mumbai embassy lately for their K1, please chime in with your experience.

Thanks so much.
Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-05-24 15:27:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAre photos enough proof?
I would say anything that doesn't physically show the two of you in photos is *NOT* proof.
For example, close up picture of the ring, doesn't make it proof of meeting, unless your fiancee's and your face is visible in them. As earlier described, that ring can be on anyone's finger.
Infact, you two need to be together in my opinion to show proof of meeting. If not, you must show that you are with an immediate relative (in the picture) and describe in writing behind the pics.

I can only advise on these things.

Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-06-06 11:18:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHAVING MY USC FIANCEE CAN PROTECT ME FROM BEING ON AP

:rofl: don't think he read the word 'wife'


Made me feel like I was on imgur.com... rofl

Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-07-12 23:53:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresVJ timeline accuracy

I wouldn't pay much attention to it.


I agree to this somewhat. Although it is a fair indication of an average in the long run, it certainly doesn't help as many people as it should.
There are tons of factors. No two cases will be exactly identical in processing times. Heck, the same application can take different time in processing by different adjudicators.
On top of this, things to consider are RFE's. Some people are extra diligent in getting their material together and never get an RFE, while others are too diligent and get an RFE because they bombarded the Adjudicator with too much information.
Divorces, children, Administative processing (for some "at risk" countries), can change the process dramatically.
Nothing is really straight forward.

So have some patience, check the USCIS site regularly (I would say once or twice in the first 2 months and then every week from then on), you may get a "touch" on your file if you're lucky but it doesn't really mean anything unless it leads to a decision.

That being said, Vermont has soooo many people in the Igor's list. Im currently in the 220s i think, that's after 3 months the NOA1. CSC on the other hand seems to be spot on, barely any lag. Seems also that VSC does get a larger volume of K1 visas to process compared to CSC, atleast from VJ data. This is just data. Now take into account the number of people who log in to the website yet don't bother to update the timeline or simply abandon the timeline because they have simply settled down or no longer decide to proceed with the application.
Too many variables.

What am I getting at? this is inconclusive. Why? because VJers do not account for the entire pool of data of people who file this petition. Its an indication that you can make a lot out of and you can build an entire sand castle in the air based on the estimate but after all, the only date which will matter to you is the date you get your NOA2.
That being said, I definitely strive to make sure that I don't "litter" on the timelines here and keep mine as accurate as possible.
So if you're beyond the timelines (5 months procesing + 30 days of buffer space), you can and should contact your government resources to get the ball rolling.

If I missed anything, I'm sorry, but if I missed it, its probably not important.
Goodluck with your journey.

Cheers,
Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-07-25 17:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNOA2

My NOA2 states that my 129-F was forwarded to the consulate not NVC. Today I called NVC and was told to called the consulate. Has anyone experience this issue?


I've noticed a lot of members here are getting this. All applications, once approved, go to the NVC or DOS, and then get forwarded to the Consulate. The time period it stays at the NVC is roughly a week (or two). However, there have been instances where it has taken longer than that.
By and large, they all go through the NVC before the Consulate, there is no way an approved petition can get routed straight to the consulate.

If I'm wrong, I will be corrected (but I doubt it)

Goodluck.
Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-07-25 10:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresRFE for unsigned fiancee letter of intent
LOL... I think the OP made it clear that they wanted to know "Will they get an RFE for unsigned letter of intent?"
They haven't received anything.

If people read carefully, this thread wouldn't have reached this length, and the answer would have been more precise.

TO the OP:
chances are most likely an RFE will be sent to the petitioner for unsigned letter of intent. I say most likely because we cannot know for certain how these adjudicators comply to the necessities of the visa process.
that being said, I can comfortably say that an RFE will be coming your way. The good thing is your application is being processed by CSC which means its about to be adjudicated any day now.
Worst case, you will add another month to your processing.

As others have recommended, I would dump the agency you have used for gathering your petition together.
I feel the community here is far more knowledgeable that some dimwit lawyers who nickel and dime you. I know there are good lawyers out there but most on them don't really care to go the extra effort that people here do.

Good luck and keep us posted.


Edit: I would get the signed letter ready to be sent out as soon as an RFE is received, don't add more delay to your processing by waiting. Of course, they may also want more information that just the letter of intent (incase somethign else was missed) but we can't judge that from this thread). Do not send in the Letter unless and until you receive an RFE, you're already close to being adjudicated so don't rock the boat by adding more confusion unless asked for it.
Hope this helps.

Chigs

Edited by Ami&Chigs, 28 July 2011 - 11:02 AM.

Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-07-28 10:57:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSwitching jobs just after filing petition for K1

I have been researching all over VJ and other sites about switching jobs during the process. (By the way I just sent it off 7/15/11.) Everyone is saying not to worry-the job response was true when you sent the paperwork. Well, I will be making a few thousand more a year (have been a little worried because my income was right on the border of enough with my old job)and I did not fill the I134 out correctly I noticed after the fact and then there is still eventually his interview. I feel they need to know there was a change. I had given up on ever hearing back from the job as I applied for it well over a month ago. Should I just wait for the RFE on the I-134? Can I act pre-emptively once I get the NOA1? Anyone had any experience that might shed some light on this?


Im assuming you're Wendy and you are the petitioner.
Firstly welcome to VJ.

Now your post is a bit confusing.
When you compiled your I-129F package, you should not have included an I134 because that comes at the time of the interview. Meaning, around the time of your approval NOA2 (maybe around 1 month before), you should start gathering information such as tax-transcripts and financial support I134 form with your pay-stub, bank account, sponsorhip, co-sponsorship, etc.
Seems that you are yet to get there for a while.
So if you are about to switch or have just made the switch to a new employer, you dont have anything to worry about. You will have ample time to prove your income with 2+ months of paystubs, bank balance, income statement from your new employer, etc.

Have you read the guide here on the top.
It simply points out what required documents are a must. I134 is certainly not one of them.

Cheers,
Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-07-30 12:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures221 G New Delhi K1

Has anyone been given a 221G at new Delhi for the K1 Fiance Visa. If given the 221G has anyone been approved after submitting the requested documents, and how long did it take to get approved, and what is the process. My fiancee was issued a white 221G which requested she submit several different documents which include, photos, affidavits, travel tickets, family guest list which attended the engagement, voter id card and voter list for last five years, and notarized copy of petitioners passport. Any feedback would be helpful, Thanks.


I think this has been happening quite frequently. However, I'd like ask what you submitted as part of your I-129F petition.
Seems like things such as photos, affidavits, travel tickets are things which are sent over with the Petition to establish that you have met. It would be "ideal" to send proof which indicates that you have met as well as being engaged (thats if you were engaged before having filed the I-129F Petition). Nevertheless, before knowing much I can't really speak for what should and shouldn't have been sent (you also do not have a timeline established).

So please fill us in and we'll try to give you as much feedback as possible.

Goodluck,
Chigs

Edited by Ami&Chigs, 04 August 2011 - 11:18 AM.

Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-08-04 11:17:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHow to enter address and employment info on the G-325a form? Help!

Thank you so much! That was very helpful and yes I am Amanda :) I have created tables for both myself and Kirpal and everything is looking much more organized. And yes Indian addresses can stretch on forever! My table is much more accommodating instead of the G-325A.
Thanks again and best of luck to you as well!

Amanda



Anytime.
Also, when you add such "supplements" make sure that you put print the respective full name, sign and date it accordingly.
You sign your own G-325A (and supplement), the beneficiary must sign their G-325A (and supplement). This was a bit of a moot point which I mulled on over for about a week because i got different answers as to what to do.
Same applies to Letter of intent.

All other supplements (if any) must have your (petitioner's) name, signature and dated accordingly because the rest of the application is from the petitioner's perspective.

Whew, i have lots of free advice to give these days!

Goodluck.
Chigs

Edited by Ami&Chigs, 04 August 2011 - 01:05 PM.

Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-08-04 13:04:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHow to enter address and employment info on the G-325a form? Help!

This may be a stupid question but I just want to make sure everything is perfect on our documents so they don't send them back to me!
I'm probably being overly paranoid, my fiance definitely thinks I am but what is the best way to enter address and employment information on the G-325a biographic form? I have had a lot of jobs and subsequent address changes in the last 5 years due to college, internships, seasonal field jobs, etc....

My first question is are they looking for your present addresses during those times or a permanent address? Because from the last 5 years, even when I was a student, I've always listed my parent's address as my permanent address.

Also I know they don't want gaps in time in your employment history, they say even to enter your unemployment periods. I have already made a table in a word document as a separate attachment. My question is would it be better to list all of my addresses on the supplement and just write "see attachment" on the G-325a or write my most recent addresses and on the last line write "see attachment"?

Lastly, would I be able to change my address in the middle of the petition process? Right now I have my parent's address listed as my present address but I plan on moving in the near future.


I really want to get our petition sent out soon but I keep double checking and finding reasons to freak out!


Firstly,

Welcome to VJ.
With respect to address, they want to know where you've lived and worked in the past 5 years. So if you attended college and stayed in the dorm, indicate the time period and the correct address of the dormitory.
The concept of permanent address doesn't apply from this form's perspective. This form should be used to provide biographic history for the past 5 years.

With respect to g325A. I did something similar to what you're describing. I'm in no way telling you that what I did is in fact correct, because I have yet to receive an NOA2.
I pretty much created a table similar to the G325A form. I entered however much I could on the G325A and wrote "see attachment".
In my case, it was me (petitioner) who filled out the info on G325A for myself and my fiancee (indicating employment gaps as well). You will need to get your fiance (i'm assuming you're Amanda and that you've correctly used fiance in your OP above) to also fill out the G325A with similar time lines of lived/worked information (5 years, including gaps in employment).
My biggest problem was not having enough space in the address portion of the employment section which is why i created a table.
Also, Indian addresses can stretch quite long, which is why my table was much more accommodating to this problem.

In any case, if you do decide to go the "create your own table" route, you must still indicate on the G325A "See supplement" or "See attachment" wherever necessary so that they know to look on the following sheet of paper to see a "complete" answer for that particular line item.

That's as much as i can say.

Wish you all the best.

Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-08-04 12:41:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHURRY UP VSC

dude, seriously? youre a march filer. i waited 5 months. stop whining.


Thank god someone else said this before I responded.
I wouldn't say it so bluntly but the point would be the same.

VSC has always lagged.

to the OP:
When you filed in March, the waiting time between NOA1 and NOA2 was near 5-6 months. You should be happy that they have sped up.
I for one feel like they have picked up the pace quite a lot compared to 2-3 months ago.
However, CSC and TSC are faster than both VSC by about a month if not more.

OP, your approval should be on the cards any day, you can see that people on Igor's list who have recently been approved ar around your dates.
So Hang in there.

Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-07-13 20:38:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresUS Passport style photos
OP:

Take a digital pic of yourself in relatively bright background (white/beige, etc).
Go here.
http://www.epassport...ntry=US&photo=0

upload, crop, size.
They will generate a nice 4x6 image you can take anywhere and have it printed.

Hope it helps.

Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-08-02 14:07:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAre there any success stories from India?
I think you might get a lot of different answers to all your concerns/question about the embassy.
I can only provide info on what I know about Delhi.
My close friend petitioned for his fiancee to be interviewed at Delhi once approved by USCIS and NVC.
He did not have any problems, mostly because he/she were both from the same region in India (Delhi) - ofcourse in the case of my friend, he moved to the US long back.

Nevertheless, things have always been a bit sketchy when it comes to inter-racial marriage in India.
If you do your homework about this, it isn't the norm. So already its going to be an uphill battle.
You have already mentioned things that are working against you...
- lack of steady jobs, jumping around for stable jobs, etc..

But what works in your favor is that both parents (yours and his i assume), approve of the relationship. Great. Now the next thing would be to (whenever required or asked for), provide affidavits from parents on both sides that the relationship is legitimate and that they approve this relationship.
One of the things that can work in your favor is if you can provide proof of having spent some time with Kirpal and his parents together (in photos). If this wasn't sent as part of your K1 petition packet, hope is not lost. Kirpal can provide that as evidence claiming "look here's proof that she has spent time with our family and that they approve it... moreover, here are the affidavits to back them up".

You guys also have plans for marriage in the USA. It would be my suggestion to documents these plans, such as reservations for a banquet for the reception, etc or a chapel etc (depending on the type of wedding you're planning to have). Whatever it, if you have plans, and can truthfully present them to the interviewing officer, the scrutiny will be that much less of a scrutiny.

Also, this is important. Relax. I don't know what field of education you're from but I'm a software developer. And over the course of the years, I've learnt that when people post, as you have posted, they generally have "questions" or "concerns" or an actual "problem" at their hand which they do not want to solve. Even though most of the things you read here happen to be "not-so-good-experiences" with the mumbai/delhi embassies, I'm sure there are many people who have a very good experience and simply do not post back here. Like I said, breathe a little easier and relax.

You're primary concern after having sent your petition, is to make sure that between the NOA1 and the Interview data, you and Kirpal have a good solid proof of your relationship. Spend time together, have fun, and as much as you can document these things. Now that you're aware, take pics with a camera that allows for digtal date/time imprinting while the picture is being taken. Small things will add up.

As i said, your biggest asset is the approval and the backing of Kirpal's parents. You need to somehow have this documented so that Kirpal doesn't get scrutinized.

That being said, I think you guys will be fine. That being said, as long as your (just yours alone) income meets the minimum poverty level requirement you two should be fine.

Best of luck.

regards,
Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-08-14 14:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNOA1,NOA2, NOA2.5, etc
Alright check this out...
Star Trekking ahead

NOA1: You'vre engaged onto a voyage ahead and henceforth it feels like you're on Starship Voyager on their way to the Alpha Quadrant, mission is on its way...
RFE(and the process towards it): You were on your way to the alpha quadrant and suddenly... Delta Quadrant, now you have no idea where you're at and its a struggle to GTF out, no hope in sight and then all of a suddent... The Borg (RFE) have arrived... and you're like "Why me? #######?" (because you forgot to enter the proper coordinates)
NOA2: congratulations you have fought off the Borg (thanks Seven of Nine) and have found your way back through a wormhole from the Delta Quadrant to the Alpha Quadrant.


chhatc

Edited by Ami&Chigs, 19 August 2011 - 05:22 PM.

Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-08-19 17:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresJust got our NOA2 approval ! YAY!
congrats...

i filed on april 25, 2011 and still waiting... my fiancee keeps on reminding me that i need not lose patience since im still a month away from 5month mark but still i wish some luck would come my way right about now... hangin in there...

Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-08-25 19:06:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresKeep safe during Hurricane Irene my fellow K1ers
As I am in NYC and bearing with Hurricane Irene, I wish all my fellow K1 filers and east coast residents a safe weekend ahead.
Hope everyone is prepared with the necessary last-minute needs: flashlights, water, food, etc...

Please keep safe. Hope to hear that everyone made through without any major difficulties.


regards,
Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-08-27 19:06:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion on VSC -> NVC for I-129F
Frustration over... Whew...

Apparently, I should know better than to rely on the automated system.Posted ImagePosted ImagePosted Image
Spoke to a CSR @the NVC. He asked me info about myself and the beneficiary. And I asked about the Case number, he provided.
Said was recived on Sep 9, 2011 and Left Sep 12, 2011.

YAY!Posted ImagePosted ImagePosted ImagePosted ImagePosted Image

Mumbai Embassy: Here we come...

Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-09-12 15:10:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion on VSC -> NVC for I-129F
magen,
It's quite possible that what you state is the case. StvM is also in the same boat as me. Both approved on Aug 31, 2011, and when logged into uscis.gov, it should last updated as of "09/07/2011."
I really hope they have sent the petition to NVC. I just lost a few days because of this kind of bureaucracy.

NVC as I've noticed is MUCH MUCH better at customer care. I called the USCIS 800 number to see what is still being done with my case (as a result of noticing the 09/07/2011 update/touch). They gave me the same old canned response which I so hate. Firstly, the printed on my Approval notice that the petition was forwarded to the consulate, and anyone carefully following their I-129F case will tell you that these petitions HAVE TO go through NVC before the Embassy. I had such a bitter conversation, nearly hung up from Level 2 Customer Care saying "Great, so you managed to tell me absolutely nothing new about my case."

I'm just hoping that 09/07/2011 means it was shipped out and not something else. Now I wait.

Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-09-09 14:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion on VSC -> NVC for I-129F
Ok so here's the update.
NVC STILL DOESN'T HAVE MY CASE.

And so I decided to go back to the USCIS website and see if some events happened on my case since it was approved on 08/31/2011.
Guess what, it shows it was last touched on 09/07/2011.

That was two days ago. Does this mean it is still potentially sitting at Vermont?

If you too are waiting for your case to show up at the NVC, I suggest you also check your case status with the USCIS and see if there was any "touch" movement since the date it was approved. I suspect VSC is slowing down on sending the approved petitions.

Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-09-09 11:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion on VSC -> NVC for I-129F

Still nothing. Case not at NVC, yet... I wouldn't worry much about it, but my fiancee and I are very short on time. Literally, everyday counts. In the beginning of process I had post about K-2 aging-out. According to all replies there was not enough time for my fiancee's daughter to get everything done, including adjustment of status, before turning 21. As one member said - we needed series of small miracles to make it happen. So, we prepared her that she will stay behind. But then... first small miracle happen when USCIS approved our petition in a little over 3 month. In the meantime second small miracle happen. Recent BIA decision (which is binding to USCIS), on June 23, 2011 cleared a way to ANY K-2 to adjust as long as they enter country before 21st birthday. exact words from decision:"We conclude that to adjust status based on a K-2 visa, an alien derivative child must establish that he or she was under 21 years of age at the time of admission to the United States". Basically with about two month to spare our hopes have went up, that family might still be together, giving that Consulate is not that busy right now, and scheduling can be done pretty quick (no need to wait for packet 3, or to mail anything back and forth, in Ukraine). But now NVC.... saying there is no record, yet.... Killing that hope day by day...
Sorry, I just had to vent....


Our case is also not at the NVC yet... I call twice in the day. Once in the middle of the day and the other before they close (around 11PM EDT).
I am sure that if the small things that paved the way so far will add up. I will definitely pray that things move smoothly (once NVC is reached).

And its okay to vent. I do that myself to get some oxygen back into my brain... ;)

Take Care,
Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-09-08 09:32:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion on VSC -> NVC for I-129F

I'm in the same boat. Approved August 31, waiting on case number from NVC. But it is not entirely true about "lag". Looking at some timelines from VSC, you can see that for some people it takes 3-4 days, for others - longer. I've seen timeline saying that petitioner was approved on August 29, NVC received September 2. Is it correct entry, or nor - hard to tell (because same petitioner claims, that petition left NVC on same day). Just hope for the best, and keep calling.

Oh thank god. We seem to be in the same boat. Hopefully we get the same treatment as those who claim their petition was entered into the system in a few days. Let's hope NVC is fast.
Hopefully you're pretty diligent with updating your timeline, since I will be following it just for my own sanity... :) Ofcourse, if mine gets entered, first thing thats happening is my fiancee will find out and then VJ (through timeline).


Chigs, I got approved on 8/29, two days before you. I called last Friday and our petition was not in the system yet. When I called Tuesday morning, it was in the system and they gave me the case number. Since my fiance is in Cuba, we don't have to wait until the documents reach Havana to make the appointment, all we need is the NVC Havana number so I was able to make the appointment, but my petition is still at NVC undergoing additional processing. When I heard those words, I got scared, but a research here on VJ leads me to believe that additional processing is their way of saying that they are still working on the petition. The CSR at NVC said that all petitions go through additional processing (which is not the same as administrative processing). He suggested I call everyday to check if petition has gone to Havana.

With all that being said, I am almost certain that you should have your number today or tomorrow. Good luck!

This makes me feel pretty good now. I will keep trying, mostly at the end of the day, since their customer care is almost close to being 24 hours.


Congratulations :thumbs:

Thanks mayte :)


Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-09-07 12:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion on VSC -> NVC for I-129F

Hey Chigs,
Congratulations on your recent approval :dance: . My approval was on August 18. I called NVC on firday 9/2/11 I was instructed to call back again on 9/9/11 to see if our petition has been recieved. I hope your petition moves a lot faster than ours. So it will be 3 weeks since our approval.

During this time I have been getting all the info needed for packet 3 ready to send to my fiance in Haiti. So use your time wisely and read the posts, review your countries portal and stay informed. Lots of contradiction on here so take time to sort it all out...Good luck again.

Chynna


Whoa that's a bummer... So now even petitions from VSC have joined the "lag" club. Not good.
I'm already on the Packet 3 ball.

Just waiting on the damn case number.

Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-09-06 23:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion on VSC -> NVC for I-129F

Maybe about a month you are making progress, congratulations.


I fail to understand this statement.
If you're stating "about a month [for the NVC to receive the approved petition]" then thats not believable (atleast not from the Vermont standpoint. CSC maybe.

And I take it that part about "you are making progress, congratulations" is for the approval of the petition... thank you sir...

Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-09-06 15:00:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion on VSC -> NVC for I-129F

My NOA2 date was June 17th and NVC received it on July 18th. Just an FYI......but things move really fast once it gets to NVC. Good luck.



My 129F and I-130 Petition took around 15 business days to reach NVC. I was approved on July 23rd from USCIS. NVC will tell you to give them 20 business days before they can provide you status. If 20 business days are passed then you can send them email with scanned copy of NOA2.


Both your timelines indicate you guys had your petitions routed to California. California has been dreadfully slow getting things to the NVC and I'm aware of that.

I still would like to hear from the Vermonters. Come on folks, let's hear it from your the Vermonters.... ::round of applause::
Let's not all speak at once ;)

Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-09-06 14:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion on VSC -> NVC for I-129F
Hello VJers,
So my petition was approved last Wednesday (8/31/2011), boy what a relief.
Its the Tuesday after, and I'm awaiting the part where my approved petition reaches the NVC.

I called the 603 number and they ran a check on my Receipt number and don't have it yet.

I'm thinking the long weekend means "give them a few more days to get it and register it in the system."

Is there anyone who got approved from Vermont Service Center last week and know if their Approved Petition has reached the NVC?

Just trying to be proactive in seeing that I don't have to wait too long at the embassy to receive the interview date.

Thanks,
Chigs

Edited by Ami&Chigs, 06 September 2011 - 02:14 PM.

Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-09-06 14:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresMedical Exam

She is not to open the envelope at all. As stated she will be given another sealed envelope at interview which she will carry with her to the US and hand over at POE. I am sure at interview they will give her a copy of vaccination supplement. Leave things alone and don't open anything .

Understood.

She may ask the hospital for a copy of her vaccination record.

That's what we will be doing, calling Leelavati Hospital in the morning to see if they can send a copy via email/fax/snailmail.

Thanks all for clearing it up that the medical report is NOT TO BE OPENED
Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-09-27 16:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresMedical Exam

She is not to open the contents of her medical. She will give it to the consulate when she has her interview. When her visa is returned she will be given another envelope to give the officers at her POE. Her medical will be opened by them and forwarded on to USCIS and will be there for when she does her AOS. She must not open anything. Along with my medical there was a vaccination paper for my records, I'm not sure if every country does that or not. This was for me to send in with my AOS. Her medical is good for one year....I hope that clarified your questions.


So this basically leaves us with no other choice but to call Leelavati hospital and ask whether or not they included a vaccination report within Medical Report as well.
Thanks JeannieL.

Chigs
Ami&ChigsMaleIndia2011-09-27 15:55:00