ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWe've got our approval!received by mail yesterday..
congrats! next step is for you to gather and send all requirements for your fiancee's K1 visa application, for your fiancee to gather requirements she'll need for her visa interview, call the USEM to ask for an interview schedule, for your fiancee to prepare for her medical exam.

and make sure you read this: http://www.visajourn...p?showtopic=300

good luck!


Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-07-30 11:44:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresJust got this email
it is indeed a good thing! same thing happened to my case...was transferred and approved without interview!


Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-08-17 10:02:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 guide No. 4
QUOTE (honey bear @ Aug 20 2009, 06:03 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
"K-1 Visa Guide No. 4. Declaration of how you met in person in the last two years. This should be a single typed page attachment regarding question 18 of the I-129F. Make sure to sign and date it."


Ei guys, just a clarification.
Do you really have to write on a separate sheet for this? Or is it okay to make it brief and just write it in the space for this question in the form I-129F?

Thanks!



if your answer fits in the space provided no need to attach a page, but if he came to visit many times for different specific occasions which you want to describe in detail, make sure you sign and date the attachment.

good luck and god bless!
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-08-20 11:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresbanco de oro
QUOTE (delta23 @ Aug 20 2009, 09:25 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
hello

my fiance will be taking her 2nd medical test at saint lukes in september, my question is to anyone that has taken the 2nd medical, will we have to pay the banco de oro fee a 2nd time along with the medical fee?

thanks in advance joe



if it's for follow-up tests to the first ones (which is usually the case), you don't have to pay a second time. is she required to take to come back for sputum tests? if so, no addt'l fees need to be paid.
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-08-20 11:26:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresquestion on K2 visa
QUOTE (pearl0811 @ Aug 21 2009, 06:01 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
hi, i already received this morning my visa packet including my child's k2 visa. im just wondering if anybody has a sample format for a k2 visa, coz i was confused with the annotation on my daughter's visa saying "deriv of <my first name> <my middle name>. i dont know if it was right or the US embassy made a mistake on putting my middle name instead of my last name. can someone help me or explain if this is correct. i couldnt reach right now the visa information center coz its holiday here in Phil.

thank you....



it's best to call the embassy as soon as possibleto to correct the mistake. things like this happens all the time...and resolved too most of the time so don't worry

god bless! smile.gif
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-08-21 10:34:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureswhat does it mean?
NVC and eventually the USEM in manila...it means you're good to apply for a visa!
next step is to go for medical (wait for your email notice...or not), call for interview appt and prepare docs needed for visa interview appt!

congrats! god bless! smile.gif
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-08-21 09:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-864
QUOTE (johnnybgood265 @ Aug 26 2009, 10:16 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
At this time unfortunately im still jobless and looking for employment . I might be using a co-sponser when the NOA-2 is approved. But i hope it doesent come to that. My question is if I use a co-sponser I know we both have to fill out the I-134 form and send it in to the embassy in my fiances package. But do I need at this time to also send in the I-864 or does that come later ? Also how come there are two affidavit of support forms ?? the 134 and the 864 ??? Hope someone here can help us. Anyone with an answer would be great and thank you once again. good.gif



you only need the 1-134 at this time...the 1864 is when fiance is here in the US and will adjust status (AOS process)

you'll get all the info you need here: http://www.visajourn...p?showtopic=300

good luck
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-08-27 11:38:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresApplying for a touist Visa..while on k1 process?
QUOTE (baron555 @ Sep 2 2009, 09:04 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Carlawarla @ Sep 2 2009, 07:09 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (notebook @ Sep 2 2009, 01:53 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi all, i just have some questions and hopefully get some answers and advises that i can use/consider regarding this matter.

1. Can i sill apply for a US tourist visa while im in k1 visa process?
2. Does anybody here have done this? how did it went? were u able to get approved for tourist visa?
3. What are the possible questions they might ask since u are already applying for k1? bcuz i heard the possibility of getting a tourist visa while on k1 is very low, due to the thoughts that they might just use the tourist visa to go to US faster then marry?


pls. answer my questions and give some info. too.. i am planning to apply for a tourist visa so i can travel to US without getting marry...my intention is pure..we are very willing to wait for the k1 approval..we just want to be together nomatter where..married or not.=)


Thanks and good luck to our journey,
Emz


Gary and Alla have answered your questions, and I'm sure some Philippine people will answer as well however very few if any people from the Philippines can get a tourist visa.



Tell him to come to you.



getting a tourist visa is not based on where you're from but on TWO main things: being able to show proof of strong ties back to your country (to make the US trust you enough that you will to back to that country) AND reason why you need to get one.

if your reason for instance is to be with your fiance, that's not good enough because you're already applying as a K1 because of that.

that's why even if you think you have enough proof that you're going back (money in the bank, properties, children and stable job), getting approved would still depend on your answer to the WHY and "why not just wait till the K1 is approved?"

no matter how innocent and genuine your reason is, if it's not a matter of urgency that you can prove (which will be up to the consular officer to decide) it's not good enough.

they might also see it as your back up plan to the states if your K1 is not approved, it's their job to think like this unfortunately.

so to be safe, just wait for k1 approval, it doesn't take very long anyway. just make sure you follow the procedures correctly and complete and submit all requirements on time and in a very organized manner and you'll be together before you know it
yes.gif

good luck and god bless!




Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-09-02 10:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiled I129F - Fiance is Having a Baby
QUOTE (alcocerc @ Aug 24 2009, 10:56 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello Board members,

I filed for a I129F around June 5, 2009. On the application I did not put anything regarding children (both my fiance and I do not have any). Fast foward to today - she is expecting our baby boy next month (will be born in Mexico).

My question is - How do I go about adjusting the forum to include our baby? Or better yet - what do I need to do to make sure the birth does not delay our paperwork and my fiance and son will be able to cross the border so we can have one big happy family.

This is my first post so please bare with me - thanks for your help in advance.

CA



best to call the NVC for your unique case. but just a thought, if your application is still being processed (no NOA2 yet) it might still be the fastest thing to submit new forms to include your son, after he is born. he'll be a K2 since your fiance is on a K1. you can bring them both at the same time...just a thought smile.gif


Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-08-26 13:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresInterview!
QUOTE (sperry81 @ Sep 16 2009, 01:14 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I was wondering if I really need to send an entire copy of my I-129f packet, is this manditory or what? our interview is sept. 24, I have instructions from the embassy in manila and it does not say anything about a copy of the I-129f... as far as i know I will send her I-134 with suporting 1040's and bank statments, proof of relationship, Letter of intent to marry, copy of noa2, and proof of engagment. Am I missing anything? blink.gif


technically, the interview is for the visa application which requires only those docs asked for this purpose...but then you have to consider that the interview is not just that, there are actually several phases before the actual interview, which means that at any point of the process and any time during the interview itself your fiancee may be asked for any doc/information for verification. you have to be ready for that and anything else that might come up...i remember during my interview that a pre-screener misplaced a doc that a girl just handed out to him, weird thing but it happened. good thing she had extra copies.

anyway, good luck and god bless!


Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-09-16 12:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHow much more money after the NOA-2 ???
QUOTE (johnnybgood265 @ Sep 22 2009, 11:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Can anyone who went thru the K-1 process already please explain to us how much more it will cost to get my love out of the philippines ?? Im a little confused on all these fees. I just dont want to make any mistakes at this point. But I do feel like im being nickeled and dimed to death. and it just keeps going and going. Does anyone else feel the same way ? I think its like $131.00 for the medical, ls this right ? wacko.gif Thanks for your feed back



things you will spend for:

1. medical
2. visa application
3. courier (for visa delivery) although your fiancee can ask the CO if she can pick it up herself, some of them are ok w/this
4. CFO seminar
5. plane ticket, travel tax and airport tax

reward is she'll finally be with you and together, you'll have everlasting happiness!

good luck and god bless! smile.gif

Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-09-23 09:26:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresrfe
QUOTE (RichMila @ Sep 23 2009, 07:49 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (GregwedsAngel @ Sep 23 2009, 06:45 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
They want those primary evidences to see if you and your fiancee had indeed met, within two years of filing for her petition. Boarding passes, passport stamps of entry and exit, credit card receipts among others that show the dates that you allegedly claimed having met in person.


yes i know why they want them and i alreadys submitted everything in the beginning.all of it.



ridiculous as it may be, just send all of those again and add your most recent visit to her (new pics, tickets etc)...

VJ warns of RFEs like this where while you were 100% sure you sent everything they asked for and assume that they received everything, who knows what happened to them after they were received? misplaced, mixed up with other applications, fell on the trash bin? who knows)

and they warn also of submitting photocopies (unless instructed to do otherwise on some docs) so that you'll have the originals to photocopy (again) and resubmit)

just respond like it's nothing.. the quicker you respond, the better you'll feel smile.gif
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-09-24 15:17:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresVisiting the US
QUOTE (Arbind.Ariadne @ Sep 24 2009, 11:28 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I just need to know how I'm supposed to visit the U.S. while waiting for our case to be complete.

Will that mean I don't need to get any visa and just show up there with proof that I will return to my home country after a few days of seeing my fiance?

Another option is to secure a tourist visa but most people say that single women have lower chances of getting approved for a tourist visa. If I secure a tourist visa and get married in the U.S., do I still need to return to my own country and start filing a CR-1?

It's now September 25 here in the Philippines and that's a month from the date of our NOA2 but the NVC still tells us that they have no record of our case.

If they would be telling us very, very soon that our case is moving to the Consulate, that could change a lot of things.



FAE luv.gif



like what others have said, you can take a chance and apply for a tourist visa, but check out the requirements first if you can fulfill them, if not, might as well just wait till your petition is approved and you become eligible to apply for a fiancee visa.

why are most tourist visa applications of single women who have a pending K1 petition denied? precisely because many of them have the same plan as you, - to get married while in the states, thinking it will make the process a lot faster.

if anything, your attempt to go to the US might just cause peoblems on our K1 petition/visa application.

it would be safer for you to just wait till you are approved.

Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-09-25 18:22:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHow Long Do We Have to Know Each Other Before Applying for K1
QUOTE (Mr. K @ Sep 25 2009, 07:35 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Old Dominion @ Sep 25 2009, 07:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
So long as you've got photos and other evidence that you have met, get going with the paperwork and be sure it's all complete before filing. Was this really an attorney?? How did you find him??


Yes, it was a real attorney. I found her on the State Bar of Georgia's website.

I'm wondering, why do people use an attorney for this anyway. What exactly do they do?



the ones who do could use attorney services are those who are extremely busy, unable to gather the forms by themselves and take the time to submit, wait, respond to communication.

but if you have the time, it's actually good to do everything yourself so you understand the whole process and in the end appreciate all your hard work.

VJ has enough info for you on what to do, when to do it and how, and for how much.

good luck and god bless!


Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-09-25 19:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPhilippines Flooding - Hardship?
QUOTE (kavajava @ Sep 28 2009, 05:44 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Does anyone know if a K-1 visa can be expedited due to hardships such as the flooding in the Philippines? My fiancee lost everything in the floods.

Thanks!



sorry to hear that. I'm from the phils too and the devastation was a real shock to me.

unfortunately there is no such provision for that. otherwise people would easily use that to get theirs expedited.
but who knows a miracle could happen.


Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-09-28 18:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK2 Approved! DSWD requirements?
QUOTE (Hunnybaby @ Oct 1 2009, 09:23 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Oh Guys, I hope you are all correct, because it was the Consul who told my mom during the interview that she will need to fly in November wacko.gif when my mom asked them if it will be possible to have a 6mos visa validity.

So, I'm still hopefull that when they get her visa, it will have 6mos validity like what I had with my k1.

QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Oct 1 2009, 03:33 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Jamaican JNR @ Oct 1 2009, 01:20 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Hunnybaby @ Oct 1 2009, 12:10 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Maybe it depends on what consulate you are from....

I hope someone here will tell me what documents will I need if my hubby's the one to pick her up...

QUOTE (raymaga @ Sep 30 2009, 09:32 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Look at my timeline to see the dates of my K-1 and my daughter's K-2.

I got my K-1 on June 10, 2004, my daughter got her K-2 on May 26, 2005, my daughter entered the U.S. on September 5, 2005.

If what they told you is correct, then my daugther would have had to enter the U.S. around June, 2005. I think they are mistaken, but I'm not sure who you can call to verify.


Let your husband have these documents: A consent letter from you, giving him permission to travel with her. A copy of your passport (picture page) and K-1 stamp, marriage certificate linking you to the step-father (your husband. In some country, they also ask for permission letter from biological father if attainable.



It is not consulate specific, the visa is valid for 6 months. The person that told you that does not know what they are talking about. It happens.

I am sure your advice is not bad, but she will need specfic requirements for the country and age of the child. NONE of the items you list would get a child under 16 out of Ukraine without a permissin letter from BOTH parents, including the AWOL father. This is in addition to the letter you provide for the consulate (can be the same letter, but you also have to show it when leaving the country). Our youngest, 14, already has his green card and we had to show that letter this summer for him to leave.

Check with the consulate on what will be required, try to get a supervisor that knows what they are talking about






as to your husband flying her in instead of you, you might need a doctor's certification of your pregnancy as one proof that you cannot do it yourself, then your marriage cert to show your relationship to the person flying your daughter in, and it would be best to call DSWD if they have specific requirements .

check the website and download the "travel clearance" form for minors. it kinds tells you what info is needed by DSWD to allow her to fly with your husband.

good luck and god bless!

Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-10-01 11:03:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNo middle name used on I129
QUOTE (rkidman @ Oct 2 2009, 01:26 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello,

My fiance has her interview at the Manila embassy this Tuesday. When I originally submitted the I129F, I did not list her middle name. Her passport and NSO have her middle name on it. I faxed a request to the embassy to update there records to reflect her records, but they told me it takes up to 4 weeks to change it. I called the embassy and the gentleman I spoke with assured me that she would be able to get in for her interview, but I am still nervous.

Anyone have any experience with this?

Thanks in advance,



don't worry, she'll get in and have her interview. just wondering though why you were told it takes weeks to put in the correction. mine took less than a week. but it's ok, she'll get visa in her complete name and request for correction/s again for any other mistake.
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-10-02 11:58:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAffidavit of Support
QUOTE (cien09 @ Oct 2 2009, 10:09 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi to Everybody here in VJs,

Need some advice. My fiance is self-employed.
Is it enough the I-134 and Tax transcripts to need for my interview?

We dont have any records of phone bills also because he use a phone card everytime he called me.
Can we use it as one of our proof of relationship?

Thanks for the helpsmilie.gif star_smile.gif



tax transcripts are good enough.

as for phone calls, if he called you on your cell, you can request your cell company to print out call records for you (they may or may charge for this).

he can do the same on his end, even though the access number for the call card (and not your number) might be the only number to show (at least it will give hints that call cards were used to call overseas)

you have a lot of other options for proof of relationship: pics, letters, cards, emails, plane tickets for his visits

whatever you don't have, compensate with what you can get.

good luck and god bless!
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-10-02 11:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureshelp K1 visa approved but pregnant
QUOTE (sjr09 @ Oct 3 2009, 01:57 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Joe & Nadya @ Oct 2 2009, 01:34 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Zen Den @ Oct 2 2009, 01:58 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Gerjoel @ Oct 2 2009, 01:47 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi all,


yes!! my fiancee visa is approved and she is just waiting to receive it.(due to the recent typhoon/flooding in the Phil. the US embassy is closed and might have caused more delay) She is also 8 months pregnant and might not be allowed to travel. here are my questions:

1.Once she receives her k1 visa how long is it good for? because she might have to give birth in the Philippines.

2.If the baby is born in the Philippines can the baby be added to her petition. or is this what you would consider k2 (this is a whole new catergory for me that im still researching) your experience or feedback is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!


1. the visa is good for 3 months (90 days) from date of approval...you'll see the expiration on the visa itself.

2. your baby doesn't need to be added to your petition, but you'll have to register his birth right away with the embassy through the CRBA process, the baby will then be issued a US passport and they can both fly.

look for the CRBA process link here in VJ or at USCIS so you can prepare for the requirements.

good luck and god bless!


Yes, after the birth you have to register your child in US Embassy. Having US passport your child will need nothingvfor travelling, no documents. The child needs a passport for travelling! I gave the birth in Ukraine, my husband ( his father ) came to Ukraine in one month after the birth and registered our son in the US Embassy in Kiev. In one month we have got US passport for our baby. When we came here, we applied for AOS and it was approved in 2 months without interview because of our son. He is the main proof in our relations.

Of course the best it could be if the child is born in the territory of the USA, but the trip is going to be so hard and so far. It's risky.

Like I said, wait for the birth, register your child and fly back home together. I don't know about Philippines, but in Ukraine you can't live country with a child without father's permission. You have to think about it too.

Good luck.

The child needs a passport for travelling !
The father as the US citizen has to initiate the CRBA process in Manila Embassy and must prove he is the father of the child born in the PI the Manila Embassy can be very picky on this matter and even request DNA. You must bring the child when you apply at the embassy in Manila for the CRBA.


Consular Report Of Birth Abroad U.S. Embassy In Manila



Embassy of the United States of America, Manila: http://manila.usemba...v/wwwha003.html

You as the U.S. Citizen must read this link, If your documentation is poor you will be ask to submit
DNA testing: http://manila.usemba...wha003.html#dna

U.S. Passport Application Form: http://travel.state....1/ds11_842.html

Application For Consular Report Of Birth Abroad Of A Citizen Of The United States

Americahttp://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwha003.html#Report

INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONSULAR REPORT OF BIRTH ABROAD OF A CITIZEN OF THE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
http://manila.usemba...ov/wwwfinst.pdf

This was my experience with the process at the US Embassy in Manila.

I recommend that the US Parent be at the interview. Both my wife and I was present .
Application are accommodated by appointment only. When I was in the PI I did mine as a drop in case with
my daughter because of time constraint and got the interview four days later. Can’t say that it will work for
everyone.

9) of instructions, is what seems to be the main emphasis and area of concern and investigation.
One thing for you to be concerned is For out of wedlock children But I must emphasize all of the
documentary evidence on part 9

For me the main things they looked at was physical presence in the same location at applicant’s time of
conception, ultrasound and pre-natal care records, they never ask for pictures or looked at the one‘s I
submitted.” but never say never”
They talked a lot about DNA and my case was bullet proof so just be prepared.
Don’t forget you have to bring the child with you they want to see him/her.
This is my list of documents that I submitted to the US embassy in Manila for CRBA.

DS-2029 with 2”x 2” full face passport photo. (child)
NSO true copy birth Cert. (child)
Passport application. (child)

Proof of parent US citizenship.
1) US passport.
2) True copy of live birth cert. with original seal of vital records office. A must have!
3)High School transcript ..(Yeah funny, but I’ll tell you more about it later it’s not a joke)
4)True copy of NSO Marriage cert.
5) Proof of physical presence in same location at time of conception. Airline tickets, copy of visa stamps.
6) Proof of mothers pregnancy, ultrasound, pre-natal records, hospital billing statements, and pictures.
Now about the school transcript you as a US citizen have to prove you are a citizen, you have to show that
you have been living in the US for 5 years in a row….. They will not take your tax returns as proof, I can
tell you why but I don’t want to write a small book about it. When you give them your school transcript they
take them with out a word…Had her US passport and CRBA cert. in about 10 days at my wife’s home. PI.
Good Luck!



oops sorry. everyone's right, visa is good for 6 months after date of issue!
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-10-03 20:58:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureshelp K1 visa approved but pregnant
QUOTE (Gerjoel @ Oct 2 2009, 01:47 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi all,


yes!! my fiancee visa is approved and she is just waiting to receive it.(due to the recent typhoon/flooding in the Phil. the US embassy is closed and might have caused more delay) She is also 8 months pregnant and might not be allowed to travel. here are my questions:

1.Once she receives her k1 visa how long is it good for? because she might have to give birth in the Philippines.

2.If the baby is born in the Philippines can the baby be added to her petition. or is this what you would consider k2 (this is a whole new catergory for me that im still researching) your experience or feedback is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!


1. the visa is good for 3 months (90 days) from date of approval...you'll see the expiration on the visa itself.

2. your baby doesn't need to be added to your petition, but you'll have to register his birth right away with the embassy through the CRBA process, the baby will then be issued a US passport and they can both fly.

look for the CRBA process link here in VJ or at USCIS so you can prepare for the requirements.

good luck and god bless!
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-10-02 12:58:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHow long does the interview usually take?
"how long is the interview" doesn't have a definite answer because...

it's not really just an interview but a whole process that begins with a lot of waiting in line, passing of documents, pre-interview questions from pre-creeners

it depends on the country you're in because interview processes sometimes vary

it depends on the volume of applicants on your interview schedule

if your application was complete, questions are usually formality so interview takes 5-10mins

if you have docs that need verification by the CO, more questions are asked so interview takes 10-30 minutes

if you get approved, you still have to process payment for visa delivery

so an visa applicant will usually take at least half a day from start to finish.

in the phils, since it's embassy policy that electronics can't be brought inside, you can't communicate till your fiancee's out of the building and done with the whole process

yes.gif
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-10-05 10:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresMedical Exam
QUOTE (WorriedPinay2 @ Sep 16 2009, 11:12 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My fiance screwed up and admitted at the medical that she used marijuana one time. Now they want her to see a physchiatrist. But is it going to matter, or is that one time use 4 years ago going to get her banned anyway?



it is and it does matter. but if they told her to see a psych then you just have to hope she passes any test w/flying colors.

and haole's right, pray and pray very hard

good luck and god bless!



Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-09-16 12:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPhilippines: K1 / K2 -- Utterly Confused! Please advise?
QUOTE (KJamal99 @ Oct 22 2009, 01:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I am quite new to this, so there are many things that are very confusing to me, which I would appreciate ANYONE'S advice/explanation on.
Fist a little background (or you can go directly to my questions at the end of this post):

I became friends with a woman in the Philippines a little over 9 years ago now. We are both 28 at the time of this message. Around 5 or 6 years ago, her mother died leaving my friend, two younger siblings and their father. Their father travels a lot - looking for work and very rarely finding it - and is gone for weeks or even months at a time. Her brother was in his late teens when the mom passed, and is now grown. However, he has had issues since the passing of their mom. Her sister was only 5 (now 11) when their mom died, and my friend has essentially raised her since then - they are, quite literally, attached at the hip now. Five years later, her dad is remarried, but the only gainfully employed person in the household is my friend, and she supports them all on a small teaching salary.

After finally visiting my friend in the Philippines for the first time earlier this year (May 2009), we realized we love each other and have been discussing marriage since my return to the U.S.. However, our discussions always end up back at "what would I do with my sister?" or "I am afraid to leave my sister - she still needs my guidance". And after seeing them together, I will admit that they are probably a packaged deal. So my concern is that I love this woman, but I can not be with her unless her sister can come with her. And this is no problem with me. The real problem is, can this be accomplished? Is this possible with regards to American Immigration law?

My friend is presently in the process of trying to adopt her sister away from their dad. She wants legal custody of her, so she can make the decisions, but also so she can move and get her away from their brother's influence. Well I've been reading about immigration a lot lately, and the adoption seems like a good idea for our situation actually, but it is also where my confusion lies.

Quote from U.S. Embassy in Manila website:
"Under U.S. immigration law, only children under the age of 18 at the time their natural parent married a U.S. citizen are considered “step-children” for immigration purpose."

From USCIS website:
"For immigration purposes, a child can be any of the following:...
An adopted child if the child was adopted prior to age 16 (one exception is if siblings are adopted, as long as one was under 16, the other could be older than 16 but younger than 18), AND the adopted child has resided in the legal and physical custody of the adoptive parent for 2 years prior to filing (the legal and physical custody do not have to be the same time period, but each must be met for 2 years)"

So my questions are...
- If my friend IS able to legally adopt her sister, AND IF we do end up getting married (K1), then will her sister be able to accompany her here to Texas as a K2? Obviously, my friend is not the "natural parent" of her sister; but once adopted, she would be the legal guardian of her sister. Do you see my confusion? Seems like these two websites have conflicting information.

- Can a school-age child (K2) legally attend public school? Are there limitations/restrictions on that?

- Does anyone have any advice i can give to my friend to help her LEGALLY and AFFORDABLY adopt her sister in the Philippines? She says she can probably get their father to give up his parental rights... But then what? Lawyers used, costs, time-frame - any advice is helpful.

- Also, is K1/K2 the right choice for us in this situation? We haven't started anything yet, so that can easily change.



yes, any child legally admitted to the US can thus legally be admitted to any public/private school. it becomes the child's one of many rights

1. your friend (being a sister) is eligible to adopt the girl, but this is not automatic. she has to meet the requirements and site the reasons for the adoption since the father is still living (obviously one reason is his irresponsibility and another is your friend has always taken care of the girl since their mother died)

the stepson/daughter info on the website does not pertain to her but to you, -if and when you decide to marry your friend and she happens to have children (her children becomes automatically your stepchildren under certain conditions)

yes, once the girl has been legally adopted (takes about 6 mos to 1 yr to process) she can accompany your friend because then your friend becomes the girl's legal parent.

2. you have 2 options, a K1 if you want to get married here in the US or a K3/CR if you want to ge married in the phils and then petitioning her as your spouse. from experience, a k1 is faster



Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-10-22 16:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureswith k1 meet at airport
QUOTE (mrsean @ Oct 28 2009, 11:37 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
when my fiancee flys to american[new york] when k1 approved do i need to sign for her at airport and does she have a long wait or process



no, you don't sign for her.

she is processed on her own, that's where she presents docs that she'll get together w/the K1 visa (assuming she is given one)

you don't see her til she's out and cleared, -docs and baggage, immigration etc.

good luck and god bless!
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-10-28 11:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresnumber of pages for the evidences???
QUOTE (pa_2010 @ Nov 1 2009, 11:27 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (estadia @ Nov 1 2009, 12:24 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (pa_2010 @ Nov 1 2009, 09:20 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (estadia @ Nov 1 2009, 12:14 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (pa_2010 @ Nov 1 2009, 09:10 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
HI! i just wanna know if there's a maximum number of pages for the proof of having met in 2 yrs??
thanks in advance...



it does not take but a picture of the two of u together copy of ticket to proof u have met in last two years its the proof that u have on going relationship that requires so much proof

sara



gotcha! tnx sara... coz my fiance wants to send all the receipts too from his visit.



if ur just now filing the petition do not send originals send copies.........

sara


ya, hes just gonna send the copies.=] tnx so much...


just a tip: the more, the better
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-11-01 12:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresk1 fee address...need help pls...
QUOTE (pa_2010 @ Nov 1 2009, 12:30 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
who do i make the payment out to when filing my K1 petition application?
any help is appreciated...tnx so much



to US Department of Homeland Security

http://www.visajourn...mp;page=k1guide
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-11-01 12:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAssembling K1 Packet
QUOTE (Bobby_Umit @ Nov 4 2009, 10:33 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I just placed everything in order (according to the cover letter) and used a big clip to hold it together.

I then placed everything in a large envelope (buisness class) than placed that into an USPS express box.

Don't get to fancy - you end up causing more issues down the line (from my experience).


yup, organize according to cover letter, add labels per section (for easy access by processor)
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-11-04 10:41:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresnervous about proof
QUOTE (kenandakiko @ Nov 25 2009, 01:13 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
hello. i submitted my I29F and im so worried of getting an RFE. do you think this is enough info to pass. based on your experieces.

i submited 2 photos of us together. barding passes, hotel reciepts for 3 rooms from orbiz, luggage tags, and credit card statments showing where i purchased the hotel and plane tickets.

is that enough proof of showing we met in person.. i was going to submit my passport but i have lost it.. will that be a problem.. do u think i will get an RFE? im so worried!! has anyone else had a problem for not having there passport?



if you're the petitioner and you submitted a copy of your BC (as proof of citizenship), it
s ok that you didn't submit your passport

2 pictures are ok if that's all you have, but i hope that in the required statement of how you met you are able to describe how/where you met and that the time you went to see your fiancee was spent getting to know her, her family, friends

how about cards, emails, chat, phone bills showing you called her number

hope you don't get an RFE yet
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-11-25 15:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG-325a Employment Section.. None ?
QUOTE (lbounds @ Dec 2 2009, 03:06 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I have a question I would like to hear some suggestions on.

My girl is 27 years old but has never worked a full time job with a paycheck. She lives in a remote area where there are mostly farmers. She has 7 brothers and 3 sisters and an elderly mother.

She never had a job with a paycheck. She just does housework for her family and she does laundry for her neighbors that pay her cash.

Someone suggested that to put Employment as "None, Never worked" for a 27 year old woman is not that great.

Any ideas of what I should put there based on what she does or should I still put "None, Never Worked" ?

I appreciate your helpful comments.. smile.gif


none is more appropriate because if you put housekeeper or something similar to that, you'll also be required to indicate the name of employer, address, years
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-12-02 15:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhat is the average time it takes for the girl to get her package after I get the 2nd notice in Philippines
QUOTE (Filipina Lover @ Dec 18 2009, 09:11 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Last time I did this with Austria it took 1 1/2 weeks, and now on monday it will be 3 weeks with the Philippines.

Are the immigration officers in the Philippines just slower than Austrian officers, or do you think the package might have gotten lost in the mail.



if you're talking about the package of forms for your fiancee, the average is about the same 1-2 weeks, but there are always surprises unfortunately
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-12-18 10:34:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 visa
QUOTE (papart_banks @ Dec 22 2009, 02:02 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
VJ,

I need to get the K-1 visa extended,due to problems my fiancee is having at home. The date we got to finished the process is January 29,2010. HELP!!!!!!



does your fiancee have a visa already?

Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-12-22 20:04:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBulky Emails,Chats and Letters for K1 Petition. Present and translate all?
QUOTE (Nerio and Beeth @ Dec 27 2009, 11:06 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Dear VJs,

I've tried searching for previous posts or guides about how to arrange, translate, present Chat and Email printouts including Snail Mails in the K1 Visa Interview but found nothing. How will I do it? I have a lot of chat and emails printout since years ago and I don't know if I need to present them all for the interview. Will I select them randomly according to dates or just sample of each? Well, I'm preparing them as early as now.

My interview is not yet scheduled, we didn't even yet received the NO2. crying.gif Getting ready makes me busy and occupied not to think about it.

Thanks. good.gif



no need to translate chats/emails, but do arrange them so that it's easy to see when you started sending emails/chatting w/each other; how often in a day/week/month/year...and you're right, get a sample to show the duration (ex.for how many hours do you chat) since when...
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-12-27 11:41:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNumber of passport photos
QUOTE (gene and mai @ Dec 27 2009, 05:46 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
hi. we just sent our petition a month ago. I thought all was well and good until my fiance asked me how many passport photos we sent for each of us. I actually do not remember! (I am forgetful sometimes >_<) I asked him why. he said he read cases of denial because they only sent one of each (beneficiary and petitioner). so being the nervous me, I searched the Internet for that and everything I read said one passport photo for the beneficiary and for the petitioner. not contented, I searched the forums of VJ. I came across one thread that asked that. and the answers were kinda confusing. some said two, others said one. so now I am very confused. is it really one photo of each or two? please help! we are now very nervous and worried to be denied because of such a simple and stupid mistake as the number of passport photo to be submitted. I know you all understand how the waiting SUCKS. sad.gif thanks in advance!


you can also go to the official website uscis.gov if you want complete and updated info

good luck and god bless!
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-12-27 11:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresthe time has come!!!
QUOTE (snickers450 @ Dec 29 2009, 06:09 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
hey guys,

i would like to get some advice regarding the fiance stuff..to be honest, i really don't know where to start..is there anyone out there that would be able to give me some guidance when it comes to putting an application together..i would really appreciate it..finally i was able to come up with the money for the processing fee..help me with this one guys, its really a big move for me, so feel free to be part of it..thanks..



check the K1 guide here on VJ, click on the sample forms needed, and check out www.uscis.gov also for the latest forms and instructions on filling them out


good luck and god bless!
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-12-29 10:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureswhat to do after receiving letter from NVC?
QUOTE (jpac876 @ Dec 29 2009, 03:57 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
hello again, hope everyone had a wonderful christmas! Just had one quick question, i received a letter in the mail today from the NVC informing me that my case will be forwarded to the US embassy in manila. How will i be able to check and see whether or not the embassy has received my case? would i make a phone call? or does my fiance just have to wait for the instructions to come in the mail from the embassy?

thanks,
Justin



you don't need to call, your fiancee will receive impt info in the mail.

in the mean time tell her to start gathering the requirements for her interview and think about when to go for medical
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-12-29 10:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAfter the medical exam in the Philippines or wherever, is that it, is it 100% done
QUOTE (Filipina Lover @ Dec 28 2009, 09:40 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I see that you need to take that paper they give you with your vaccinations on it to a civil surgeon to be re written in the USA, but is that all that he will do, or will he say you need another exam or more vaccinations.

anyone already done this civil surgeon thing, because they never used to have this, it doesn't make sense to have to have the same paper re written



the reason for the "rewriting" is to see if the applicant got the addtl vaccines required since she/he got married, because if not, that could be a reason to disapprove an AOS application(since the law states that every intending immigrant should have them)

and vaccines should also be updated or redone if it's been a year since a meduical was done\
Zen DenMalePhilippines2009-12-29 13:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresillegitimate child

the women im bringing here has a son 10 yrs old,and is illegitimate,fathers name is not on the birth certificate,will the father still have to sign off on the kid?father never had anything to do with him.were trying to bring him with her,she should receive her package anytime from manila,has anyone have any idea wt we shold do,i guest she should take him with her an get him a medical too,then find out at the interview wt they say, guys give me some input,thanks



you're applying for a K1 visa for your fiancee so i hope you included the child's name in your petition so she could bring him w/her. he"s a K2 so he's included in your wife's application

if you did, since he's 10, he does need to appear during your fiancee;s the interview.
Zen DenMalePhilippines2010-01-02 21:11:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresconfused!!!

hi guys, quick question..i will be putting a packet together to file for my fiance (I-129F)..now, my question is..where should i send my packet..shuold i send it to the service center close to my location or to vermont service center?..and about the forms..can i just download it online or i need to request for a copy..thanks guys..i would really appreciate the help..


click on the link below to see where you will send the packet:

http://www.visajourn...mp;page=k1guide

as for the forms, it's ok to just download them, just make sure that the date on the upper righthand corner shows that the form is not outdated, see the samples here:

http://www.visajourn...p;page=examples
Zen DenMalePhilippines2010-01-24 15:25:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHELP!!!!!!

i was curious on how well that the USCIS immigrations "CASE STATUS SYSTEM" on there website works. i have recieved no updates or touches. has any of you guys had your NOA2 approved without seeing an update on the website or getting an email or SMS? thanks. how long does it usually take for the NOA2 to be processed from the Vermont Service Center? i got the NOA1 on NOV 4 and have heard nothing.

sorry but the wait is just killing us!!! any advice on the above questions would be greatly appreciated based on your own experiences. thanks in advace for your help and time to post godbless.



the noa1 is fast because it's just an acknowledgement receipt of your application...the noa2 is notice of approval which means it comes out after your application goes though evaluation...if you will look at the timelines of most people here on VJ, it comes to an average of 4-6 months...but others could go as long as over a year...depending on how complete and organized your application was.

god bless and good luck!
Zen DenMalePhilippines2010-01-20 14:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresreset interview date on feb 3...

hello to all...im having an interview this coming feb3, just need some advice or help....

i already pay the visa fee...
ds 156..should be 2 copies, 156k 2 copies and ds 157

my fiance sent his tax...2008,2007,2006 with his w2...no 2009 yet coz he told me his company not give him yet the w2 to apply 2009 tax...
affidavit of support notarized
2 paystubs
bank staement

scan birth certificate
itenirary...
hotels reservation


do u think guyz that would be all


i arrange mind
nbi
nso
cenomar

remittances
chatlogs
emails
photos



don't forget your ID photos for the visa forms, sign the back and paste them ahead so you don't have to waste time when you get in.

dress businesslike/decent, and bring a jacket and snacks/water

also, memorize as much personal information about your fiance (present and previous work, family story, siblings, parents, address, phone numbers) down to favorite food (sometimes COs can be funny with their questions)

and pray a lot. good luck and god bless!
Zen DenMalePhilippines2010-01-31 14:36:00