ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresK-3 visa application
I dont know the total accuracy of the above post but I feel his frustration. I was told much the same thing by the same US Embassy that I needed to return to the US and start the filing process from my home here. This meant that I had to leave PI and I did about 6 weeks later. Then when I got here I could not even speak to anyone on the phone number published on their website. I sent an email complaining about it and got an appology which didnt help because they basically told me to try again and I did and still could not speak with anyone. I agree with most of what the person who initiated this thread stated with regards to the process. I to am confused and frustrated with it. I feel that our so called goverment workers are less than compatent and the web sites are not very clear or easy to follow. If things were that great with our goverment departments and servants this website would not be needed.We should not feel that we have accomplished a great thing by getting our wives permission to come to our own country. It also should not take the lenght of time it takes to get this done. Period!!! However we have little choice but to try our best and get through this with the help of the good folks who offer it here.
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-19 00:14:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresSubmission of I-130 & receipt of NOA 1

I-129 is filed for a K3 visa which is now obsolete, you are not missing out on anything.

NVC procedures will not change dramatically while you are waiting for your NOA2 so familiarize yourself with the guides and follow VJ postings for additional information.

I believe you had posted the question about waiting out the process in the Philippines in a previous thread ( http://www.visajourn...-2-is-received/) and your concerns were answered there.

Good luck!

Thanks for the response. Thanks also for reminding me I guess my memory is failing. Just one last question, if the K3 Visa is obsolete, then why keep it on the site or why not clearly mark it as obsolete to ensure folks dont go down a path thats not there? Things are confusing enough with this process.
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-19 17:46:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresSubmission of I-130 & receipt of NOA 1
I submitted my I-130 and received the NOA-1. Once this was accomplished I discovered that I have a 5 month waiting till the next step. So I have been looking for what am I missing... I see that some people are filing a I-129 after receiving the NOA-1. I dont get it? What's the benefit of that as they both take the same and the I-130 is the more logical way to go if your already married. Is this just doubling down your bet hoping that regardless of which happens first your covered? The problem with the I-129 is that you have to as some point deal with this process again.
I have also been putting together the required paperwork recommended by the short cuts for NVC LingChe put together ( http://www.visajourn..._IV_Package.29: ) but if I have to wait for 4 more months the information could change significantly. Am I just over thinking this whole so called process?
I am thinking of going back to the Philippines once I have the paperwork in because I dont want to be home alone so to speak and I dont have any great need to be in the US during this process. Would this be advisable? WOuld it slow down our getting a visa for my wife?
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-19 13:43:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresChanging Brides Name from Maiden Name

Whether your wife changes her name or not is a personal decision, no requirement she does so. However, keep in mind her visa and the green card that follows will be issued in the name on her passport. More to think about :)

Here are a few threads that discuss the topic.

http://www.visajourn...hl__name change

http://www.visajourn...1

Thanks for the links. I think we can manage it now. lol
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-20 06:51:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresChanging Brides Name from Maiden Name
I can't find it again but I saw in one of the post that the Bride should have her passport name changed to match her new name she has as a result of her wedding. Is this really something that needs to be done? Should all her identification documents (i.e. drivers license, Work badges, other picture ID) be change to reflect the married name she is assuming? Does this really matter? In the Philippines I found that they take the maiden name as their middle name where as in the US everyone I know is given a middle name which is not associated with the mothers last name. Is this really something to be concerned about to have all the names match perfectly? I would think reasonable thinking people can figure out why there will be differences in name on some documents.
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-20 06:12:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresBiometrics Appointment

No; fingerprints (of the beneficiary only) are taken at the interview. The biometric appointment they are referring to above is for those adjusting status or removing conditions on the conditional green card.

You are doing a lot of reading ! :lol:

LOL yeah I guess I am. I just wish I was doing a lot of UNDERSTANDING...:wacko: Why they put stuff like that in locations without being clear about it is beyond me but maybe thats why we have such a large deficite. :bonk: I know I am driving her nuts as she is still working back in her homeland. I told her to ask for a leave of absense once the NOA 2 is issued. I think she will need it.. Thanks for your guildance and help.
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-20 07:35:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresBiometrics Appointment
Went to check on my status on the USCIS site and I read the scrolling notice below

During this step, USCIS initiates the background checks of the applicant/petitioner and identifies issues that may need to be addressed either during an interview or by asking the applicant/petitioner to submit additional information or documentation. USCIS reviews applicant's/petitioner's criminal history, determines if there are national security concerns that need to be addressed, and reviews the application/petition for fraud indicators.
If you have filed an I-485, I-589, I-751, N-400, I-90, I-821, I-131, I-130 or I-765, you can expect to receive an appointment notice to appear at an Application Support Center to have your fingerprints and/or biometrics taken. The timing of your appointment is determined by the number of applicants ahead of you that also need a biometric appointment. We try to schedule biometric appointments as quickly as possible and in most cases you will receive your appointment notice within 30 days of submitting your application. We will send your appointment notice approximately 14 days ahead of your scheduled appointment. It is important that you keep this appointment. If absolutely necessary, you can request that your appointment be rescheduled however, please be aware that rescheduling may delay the processing of your application. Please follow the instructions on your appointment notice if you need to reschedule.

Okay I got this. I filed a I-130 which is listed above. So will we both be getting a notice for appointment for fingerprinting prior to receipt of our NOA2? or is this for my wife in PI? I have not recieved any notification and the time frame is near. Should I be expecting one. Its not a problem as my prints have been taken more times than I can remember. Even my DNA so no big deal to me. I would think this would be more important for my wife and I know she has not been notified either. Should I be calling someone after the time frame passes to ring some bells?
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-20 07:04:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedurespreparing ds230 and 3032 ahead of time.. do you let the beneficiary sign AND put current date ahead of time
Okay Got it. I re read it and see where it states in Pre NVC/Preparing doc's that I should have things in my hand prior to approval of NVC. Damn :bonk:

It states in Step 6 Send DS 3032, that you can email the DS3032. Are scanned copies of originals sent via email acceptable? In step 10 is where all Sponsors info which I have already is sent so thats no big deal. In step 11 b it calls for the Original of certified copies of the Benificiary's be sent by the Petitioner. So these can not be copies of originals as allowed in Step 6. This is where I got confused and though the originals could be presented at the interview for verification.
Well I still have time to get these docs in my hands provided the pony mail doesnt take months and doesnt get lost...
Thanks again I will start to monitor the NVC thread...
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-20 15:12:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedurespreparing ds230 and 3032 ahead of time.. do you let the beneficiary sign AND put current date ahead of time

i think it will be easier to name yourself as the agent in terms of making sure about the info on the forms. but i also think it will be faster if the agent is in the US in terms of logistics. it takes time to correspond with NVC via mail.

I think this is the basis of why everyone else is advising to prepare all these forms ahead of time.

Okay I'm confused here. I thought the DS forms 230 & 3032 were filled out by the beneficiary and taken with them to their interview along with the Police Report, Marriage certificate and the other documents as defined in LingChe's NVC shortcut. Those of us in the US complete the form I-824, Tax statements and the other documents AOS package.

From what I have read above its sounding like the Petitioner should get all of these documents together and submit them to the NVC. Are we speaking of Originals also which would mean they need to be mail to us by our significant other from their home land.

Can someone clarify this for me please that has been through the process. :blink: :help:
Thanks :)
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-20 12:52:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresSubmission for NVC Process
In the NVC shortcut it states "All documents that pertain to the applicants petition are required, even if previously submitted to the CIS with the applicants petition". Does this ALL mean that copies of the G-345's and I-130 also need to be resubmitted because this is for the NVC? Or is it referring to the marriage certificate, divorce papers and the other items and not the government forms previously submitted. I am guessing the latter as I have not seen the G-345 forms listed on the cover letters for the NVC submittals.
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-21 09:33:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCopy of Tax Returns Vs Tax Transcripts

If you have IRS transcripts that show the w-2/1099 information (Wage and Income version), you do not need to send w2/1099 with them (the transcripts).

It's either or for this - either your tax forms/supporting evidence or IRS transcripts.

Of course the embassy may want something else - but that's what the AFM/FAM wants...

Thanks for that ... Geeh this is almost starting to make sense...
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-21 10:18:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCopy of Tax Returns Vs Tax Transcripts

IRS transcripts are the best to send. I sent my Turbotax forms. So far, no problem. I did, however, order the IRS transcripts for my records and also for the upcoming interview.
You should be fine using just IRS transcripts, along with your W2 and 1099. :thumbs:

Thanks Markie One would only hope... I think I am getting Paranoid...
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-21 10:03:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCopy of Tax Returns Vs Tax Transcripts
I have seen where is has been stated copies of previous years Tax Returns are needed and I have also see where Tax Transcripts were mentioned. Do you need to submit both or is it good enough to submit the transcripts as these come from the IRS and should be objective evidence of taxes reported and filed by the petitioner. I know the W2 and 1099 are still needed for submission.
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-21 09:46:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCertified Divorce Certificates
Are Certified Divorce Certificates only required for the Beneficiary or do the Petitioners also need to provide past divorce Records?
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-21 01:14:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCertified Copy of Military Records

beneficiary, foreign spouse.

Thanks again Darnell...
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-21 22:08:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCertified Copy of Military Records
What is being ask for here? Are they wanting the Benificiaries Military Records or do they also want the US Citizens Military records. If they want the US Citizens which seems strange then is a DD 214 addequate?
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-21 13:47:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI- 864 Affidavit of Support

For the spouse of a US Citizen the ratio is 3 to 1, not 5 to 1 but otherwise the above is correct. Start by actually reading the I-864 instructions carefully and completely. They are excellent.

Thank you. However I did read them and I am the USC, not the spouse of one. FYI

I got this information directly from the the I-864 instruction page of the I-864 form and it reads as follows:
"Example of How to Use Assets: If you are petitioning for aparent and the poverty line for your household size is $22,062and your current income is $18,062, the difference between your current income and the poverty line is $4,000. In order for assets to help you qualify, the combination of your assets,plus the assets of any household member who is signing Form I-864A, plus any available assets of the sponsored immigant,would have to equal five times this difference (5 x $4,000). In this case, you would meet the income requirements if the net value of the assets equaled at least $20,000."
The earlier statement I got off of the VJ guide link titled "Affidavit of Support Tips". So what am I missing? Are there other instructions to read that conflict with this? I know that I qualify if the above formulas are adhered to but I also think these NVC agent use subjective thinking at times to make their determination or recommendations. That is what concerns me.

My real question was can I be an approved sponsor if I dont have a job and I am relying on my savings and investments to support myself and my spouse? I know I have sufficient assets about the poverty limits identified but government institutions do not give me great comfort levels in good reasoning ability. I am guessing most people are employed and do not show assets as their primary means of support. Have any members followed my path and been approved as sponsor? Or am I treading on shaky ground.

Thanks again for the help.
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-23 09:13:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI- 864 Affidavit of Support

I have a question concerning having a job or steady income. I have not worked in 2 yrs by choice and will be getting SS in 2 yrs. I have been living on my savings and have moneys in a retirement account and also own 2 homes that are both paid for. I just read this in the Guides under Affidavit of Support

"If you do not have a job or a steady income from other sources (such as retirement income), you will likely have to get a
co-sponsor for your spouse, even if your assets are adequate. The USCIS looks VERY CLOSELY at current income and not just the assets."

Is it true that regardless of my ability to support myself & my wife without a job that My not having a job will stop my being able to get my wife here with out a co-sponsor? I know this may not be typical but this is my situation. The other thing I was wondering is why would the USCIS be looking at income I though we were dealing with the NVC at this stage of the game. Not that that matters much.

I looked at the I-864 P form which establishes the poverty level for the lower 48 at 18,212. If I follow what the information posted on the USCIS which states
"You may add the cash value of your assets. This includes money in savings accounts, stocks, bonds, and property. To determine the amount of assets required to qualify, subtract your household income from the minimum income requirement (125% of the poverty level for your family size). You must prove the cash value of your assets is worth five times this difference (the amount left over).".

Okay $18,212 X 5 = $91,060 so that amount would in my mind be the amount needed to show ability to support. I would be able to easily show this so do I need to worry? Has anyone had any experience or knowledge with this kind of situation?

Edited by TomD, 23 April 2010 - 01:10 AM.

TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-23 01:07:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI- 864 Affidavit of Support
I have a question concerning having a job or steady income. I have not worked in 2 yrs by choice and will be getting SS in 2 yrs. I have been living on my savings and have moneys in a retirement account and also own 2 homes that are both paid for. I just read this in the Guides under Affidavit of Support

"If you do not have a job or a steady income from other sources (such as retirement income), you will likely have to get a
co-sponsor for your spouse, even if your assets are adequate. The USCIS looks VERY CLOSELY at current income and not just the assets."

Is it true that regardless of my ability to support myself & my wife without a job that My not having a job will stop my being able to get my wife here with out a co-sponsor? I know this may not be typical but this is my situation. The other thing I was wondering is why would the USCIS be looking at income I though we were dealing with the NVC at this stage of the game. Not that that matters much.

Edited by TomD, 23 April 2010 - 12:43 AM.

TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-23 00:41:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAffidavit of Support (I-864)

Tax assessments are accepted as they are historically low. However, you need to weigh what you read about how to state the value of your home against this part of the I-864 instructions. See italics for emphasis.

How Can I Use Assets to Qualify?

Assets may supplement income if the consular or immigrationofficer is convinced that the monetary value of the asset could reasonably be made available to support the sponsored immigrant and converted to cash within one year without undue harm to the sponsor or his or her family members. You may not include an automobile unless you show that you ownat least one working automobile that you have not included.

As a matter of policy not stated in the instructions, Consular officers tend to disregard equity in the family residence just as they would your only automobile because it is not reasonable to expect the home will be sold to provide support or to repay the government for means tested benefits. I would proceed as if your liquid assets to actually be considered DO NOT include the equity in your current family home. Not saying don't include it on the affidavit as it IS a positive thing. Just saying don't expect them to consider the equity part of any "asset could reasonably be made available to support the sponsored immigrant and converted to cash within one year without undue harm to the sponsor or his or her family members."

Good advice and Good reasoning and I can understand the though process. Showing the home will not hurt and should help a little. I feel my liquid assets are adequate but then, its not what I think is it..lol I guess we will find out soon enough.
THX again
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-25 12:49:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAffidavit of Support (I-864)

You can use the property tax document as an valuation of the home/property's current market value. It is usually close enough (some might say it's 'too high', other's 'too low'). You could also ask a Realtor to run a market analysis for you (free and s/be obligation-free), this would also serve as a means to show current value.

If you have a mortgage - your most recent statement would show both ownership, and current mortgage amount (needed to get the net-value). If you own it outright, a deed or similar document/object would be needed.

In my view Realtors Market Analysis are iffy at best(some just want to get a listing). I though the tax assessment would be more credible in that regard even though it might be a lower value. But with recent Market conditions I could see where they might be high also. I have the Grant Deed as I have no mortgage. THX
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-25 10:15:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAffidavit of Support (I-864)
In the instructions on form I-864 it states that you can use your assets to qualify yourself as a sponsor. It further state "The owner of the asset must include a description of the asset, proof of ownership, and the basis for the owner's claim of its net cash value." Then is goes on to say "You may include the net value of your home as an asset. The net value of the home is the appraised value of the home, minus the sum of any and all loans secured by a mortgage,trust deed, or other lien on the home. If you wish to include the net value of your home, this, you must include documentation demonstrating that you own it, a recent appraisal by a licensed appraiser, and evidence of the amount of any and all loans secured by a mortgage, trust deed, or other lien on the home."
My question is yearly we get tax assessment on Real Property from our county Tax Assessors office. As part of that assessment they establish the property value and break it down into land and improvement values. Can the current Tax Assessment be considered an appraisal as it establishes a basis of value? This also is a government entity and process performed through out the USA which is used to establish value of real estate. Additionally those assessment are typically less than the actual value of a licensed appraiser?
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-25 09:50:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresDS-3032

TomD - the requirements from NVC is to have a signed form, with original signature.

There is also the DS-3032 ascii email template (here on the wiki) but

IMO - one should choose, one or the other.
Some ppl here also do 'shotgun effect', with doing both. I don't recommend shotgun effect, at all.

Some ppl have it ready, get it going right after NOA-2 date, that signed DS-3032 from the beneficiary, to be able to MAIL IT IN to NVC via postal mail or courier, in yet another attempt to 'shave and save time'. I'm a fan of shaving and saving time, always.

Thanks Again Darnell. Its always good to hear from the voice of reason. I was originally going to have her mail a signed copy to me but perhaps she should send it directly to the NVC and make some scanned copies which she could email to me. Well that is unless the cost of courier mailing from PI is to high. I am just looking for the easiest, simplest, cost affective way to go... :yes: :whistle:
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-24 18:13:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresDS-3032
I am wondering why we are told that we should have our benificiary send us the original signed DS 3032 in advance when I see where they can Email it to NVC directly from there location. Are we suppose to do both?
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-24 16:12:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAfter NVC receives checklist, how long 'til they close the case??

I got another RFE today. Looks like I won't be leaving NVC as quickly as I had hoped. :crying:

Hopefully you will get your CC soon! Keep me updated!

Not that its my business but was your RFE for something you overlooked or missed or was it for additional detail or? Just trying to get the mind set of the NVC...
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-23 23:36:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAt what point can my wife get her medical examination?

Tom...her mothers maiden name was her middle name...as it shows on her birth certificate...until she got married...then her fathers last name became her middle name.
When we had her NBI report done...it was like this to cover everything:

her first name, her fathers last name, my last name, y her mothers maiden name

her name on the marraige contract is:

her first name, her fathers last name, my last name

When we got married in Philippines.....I had a heck of a time convincing the authorities my mothers maiden name was NOT my middle name! :bonk:

FYI....I filled in the DS-230, printed, scanned into pdf, and then emailed to my wife. She signed and then sent back to me...so as soon as we had the PAID receipt for the IV...I forwarded it to NVC.
Tom... I would suggest you both review it for errors before sending to NVC....too easy to enter something wrong and get an RFE!!! :( adding several more weeks to the process.

Gary , Yah your right. Maybe I will fill it out as I think I have most of the infor from the I-130 we sent in. Thanks for the advice. Sometimes my hard head gets in the way. :bonk: lol
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-27 15:51:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAt what point can my wife get her medical examination?

:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: Agree completely...

It was 52 days from our NOA1 to NOA2...very surprised & happy it went that quick! Sent them a suitcase though...everything filed nicely with a cover letter (thanks to my research here!!!)
Hoping we've done good research and don't have an RFE on the DS-230 (we checked...double checked...triple checked... and each time found little errors) foolish things mostly...put my last name where we should have used her maiden name....signing part II (big no...no..)...and almost used an older DS-230 form :no: ....only current form is valid (shows on form - PREVIOUS EDITIONS OBSOLETE)...be sure to use DS-230 form with 02-2010 :yes: ...it is the most CURRENT DS-230 form ....has petitioners email address on it!!!

YEs unfortunately my wife is doing the 230 and at the moment she is to frustrated to talk with me ...lol I was trying to tell her that she needs to focus on this but I think between this and her research job it too much ... So I will wait till the smoke clears so to speak. Hey did you use your wifes mothers or fathers last name as her middle name? Seem like filipinas use the Mothers last name as their middle name until they get married then want to switch to the fathers last name.
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-27 12:32:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAt what point can my wife get her medical examination?

Tom, my wife had some problems when she was younger...shows on xray...so they require a sputum test (adds 2 weeks) and sometimes a culture (adds 8 weeks to medical).
Are you aware of the the USCIS website to check status on your case?...My Case Status....need to enter the receipt number from USCIS...for California Service Center it will begin with "WAC"

Yeah I am Gary. I have been checkin it but once you get your NOA1 the clocks tic toc slows considerably. I think we are estimated to have a June NOA2 but I am looking for it in July-Aug NOA2, Nothing seems to go right lol... I am almost ready now but the wife is freaking ... To much pressure she says. :whistle: I guess I can understand that as the US is harder to get into if you do it legally. Wish the government put as much effort in other areas. :rofl:
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-25 23:37:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAt what point can my wife get her medical examination?

Hey TomD,
Can only tell you about process at SLMC in Manila (MNL on NVC case #)
My wife began her medical at SMLC this week. She needed a copy of her USCIS I-797C Approval Notice, NVC case # (received thru email) and her passport! Also 2 passport size pics....on white background...
She arrived at 4AM for the physical and was 14th in line!
We knew they would have question about her xray..so she must do the sputum test & culture which means we must wait an additional 2 months for the results.
We only received our NVC case number on April 14th.....did not have any problems getting in or beginning the physical.
One point though....told at SLMC that physical is only good for 3 months.....so be sure all your paperwork is in good order...or you may pay twice if case or interview is held up!

Thanks Gary. WOW 4am and #14 amazing isnt it. We are in the early stages of this process and dont expect NOA 2 until July-Aug time frame.

My wife is in Los Banos about 2 hrs south of MNL. If the only clinics are there then she will have to do an overnighter. Which is OK I guess but they sure dont do anything to make this process affordable. Oh I forgot this is the US Gov money is no object. :whistle: I am hoping that they might have a acceptable clinic nearer to her home town. THey have a big UP campus there so maybe... :blush: I dont think she has any medical issues because she get annual work physicals from her place of employment. I just wonder after going through all of this if we would have been better of just living in PI. We still might have to because I dont know if she can adjust to living here.
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-25 17:31:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAt what point can my wife get her medical examination?

hi vintage your wife previous k1 vaccination medical is not valid and your question about cr1 visa medical . when your case complete to national visa center level (nvc) then nvc transfer your case to your wife home country usa embassy and then nvc make interview appointment to us embassy with your wife and that time embassy send you a check list and inform about medical and vaccination

I know the US Embassy controls the medical exam at the country in question. They also have approved medical facilities that are allowed to perform these exams. I think medical exam information is sent out along with the appointment interview notice but I am not sure on that.

My wife is currently working in her country but will stop working once things get close to VISA Time. Does anyone know if there is a way to get the exam performed in advance at one of these facilities while my wife still has insurance coverage from her place of employment?
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-25 10:00:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresDivorce Certificates

:rofl:

I got the raised eyebrows from the court clerk when I went to get my multiple copies. :lol: If nothing else the $ I spent was worth the peace of mind.

Yeah I am feeling much better now :thumbs: .... It's amazing to see how these government offices work or dont work. No wonder we have such a large government work force and deficit. When I was in the Green Zone in Iraq the State Department thought they were royalty. The demanded all this special treatment. It was one of the few places where they iron your clothes at the laundry facility... They did a fine job to but they were not state department employees. They also allowed booze there because of them... It was stopped about 3 yrs later.
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-27 20:51:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresDivorce Certificates

USC Petitioner Divorce Docs
I-130 - photocopy only, show seal in photocopy (prolly that email thingie you got from the lawyer, is sufficient - you explained 'what you had' in some detail, including 'the seal' )
NVC Processing - NONE - at this stage, all is beneficiary
Interview Day - Original or Certified Copy of Divorce Document.

Sorry for the late-ish reply - but thankfully yer not up at NVC, yet, so my answer won't affect 'that packet' today.

No apology need for me... Thanks again ... I have decided to not risk it and have ordered certified copies from the Superior Court Houses in California. They were $15 each incase anyone is wondering about the cost. Yes the copies I have, have the recording stamp on them but that is not certification although the Superior Court recorders thought this was a silly requirement but understood that people can go to extremes to get what they want so soon we will probably have to prove who we are with DNA tests. I just hope we dont have to exhume our relatives who have passed away... hahaha Sorry bad joke but I though it was funny and not to far off...
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-27 17:39:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresDivorce Certificates

You just need one certified copy for each divorce. With the petition, you send a photocopy of the certified copy. Expect an RFE for this.

Wow Really for the I-130 submission. Okay cant cry over spilt milk. I will request certified copies on Monday... :bonk:

THanks I think lol
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-24 22:04:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresDivorce Certificates

Many of us simply ordered certified copies of our divorce decrees from the Court Clerk or State Records as applicable. I suggest you do the same. Just google "certified copy of divorce decree your state".

Thanks for the advice. I dont think I have a choice. Although both of my copies are electronic and have stamps showing the recording of the divorce document, I dont believe this is the same as certified.

I will get with the Superior Courts in the county's I was divorced in and request Certified copies. I think they cost about $15 for each copy. Do you think One for each case is enough or do I need multiple certified copies so that I can send my new wife one and keep one for myself?
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-24 19:11:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresDivorce Certificates

Great - she'll need to show yer official divorce document on Interview Day - so you have some time.

Good Luck !

Sorry Darnell I missed this. Are you saying I need to provide my wife with original/certified copies of my divorces papers? I though I was going to mail that in with the I-864 AOS package. Do we both need to provide them? Of course I was going to send her copies of all that I generate but those would be copies.
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-24 18:26:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresDivorce Certificates

stamps are important !!!

Yes they are. Well the good thing is my wife has never been married before and I have decided to not risk it and to remove all doubt by having the court houses mail me certified copies of my final Judgements. It might cost few buck but at this point Time is more valuable than money... :thumbs: :yes: Thanks All
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-21 21:38:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresDivorce Certificates

NVC is very specific.

If you are reading the links I supplied to you, from yer prior post, you should be able to glean that WHAT YOU HAVE via EMAIL is not adequate.

re: level of being #######-retentive. Full, 100 percent, slider bar at max.

also - at this stage, note that 'applicant' = 'beneficiary' = 'foreign spouse', never the US Citizen.

Good Luck !

I did read the post. The Document I have is the only document I ever received from my Attorney. (Original If you will) Its is stamped but its a stamp that shows it was recorded as part of the court records not stamped for certification. My stamp which is clearly shown on the front of my Document is not the original as that would have been sent to the County Clerks for filing in their records file in the county courthouse.

You know not all government offices act or interpret things in the same way. I have never dealt with the State Department on Visa issues before. Although I did do work for them in Baghdad. Different animal... The items that they discuss are not law they are policies adopted by their organization. What works for one does not apparently work for other government offices. Maybe fraud is at a higher level in the Visa world.

Thanks for your help and or opinions. I will contact the two court houses and request Certified copies with original ink...
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-21 18:58:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresDivorce Certificates
In the Government information pages it is stated "Applicants who have been previously married must obtain evidence of the termination of EACH prior marriage. Evidence must be in the form of original documents issued by a competent authority, or certified copies bearing the appropriate seal or stamp of the issuing authority, such as:

FINAL divorce decree
Death certificate
Annulment papers

Okay I have the copies of my Final Divorce Decree which was sent to me by my Lawyer via Email. It has the official recorders stamp from the court house on it but it is not what we would call the Wet Ink Original of the old days but these are different times. Is this considered adequate or do I need to request a fresh stamp re-certifying this already stamped document? I dont know how ####### retentive to get with all of this stuff. Will the NVC answer these question for me if I have not gotten a # yet?
TomDMalePhilippines2010-04-21 10:11:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNVC will send your relative a packet of forms

TomD - get it done in her PASSPORT NAME.

Okay She will need a new on as her old one is soon out of date. I told her she needs to decide on what her new name will be. At first I thought like a westerner and said you need to keep your middle name as it is on your birth certificate. Now after reading several topics on the subject I guess it doesnt matter and she can use her maiden name as her middle name just solong as it matches the Passport. So being the kind person I am I will let her name use the name of her choice. lol :hehe:
TomDMalePhilippines2010-05-01 14:07:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNVC will send your relative a packet of forms
Just a quick question on these Police Certificates. Since I am already married to my wife she has taken on my name but only recently. Does it matter what name the cerficate is in? Meaning her Maiden Name or Married name . Can the NVC figure that much out or does this open you to a RFE.
It may sound silly but its stuck in my head and I dont trust them haha. Thanks
TomDMalePhilippines2010-05-01 06:58:00