biggish data

How long does it take for Service Canada to send you the access ID? I'm trying to set up an account online but no luck...

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-08-01 10:22:00

No problem. As a born and raised Maritimer, the unemployment system is sort of second nature to me. Kind of like skating. Haha.

HAHA! Sorry, had to chuckle at the skating bit.

I'm a small (5 foot 1 - depending on how big my hair is that day) Asian girl and played ringette and hockey growing up. So when I'm in the US and people joke about me being 'super canadian', born skating is true to me. In the land of baseball and football, they really get confused as to the fact that I really do play hockey and they could not see it. I love going skating though with people who try and challenge me to a race, thinking it can't be real. I miss Canada and the hockey craze.

I posted a thread seeking advice and got a tonne of great positive feedback. I just wanted to chime in as it's an EI thread afterall.

My story:

Had a conversation with my boss about either voluntarily quitting or getting put on leave (so I had a job secured once EAD was completed). I had my interview done and my visa approved and in my hands when I had this talk with my boss. I just needed to book my flight (which would've been a few weeks away). My boss ended up saying he did not want to lose me and that it was best to go on leave. I took my last week in Canada and a few days from when I did my POE as 'vacation' so that I would have an extra paycheck coming in. When I got off vacation and when I was about to start going on leave, my boss terminated my employment. He told me it was restructuring of the company while telling my team I had quit. He also told HR that it was performance related.

I have submitted my EI claim based on being terminated and not 'quitting based on relocation with my spouse'. I submitted it late last week but haven't heard anything back yet. Should it be denied, I'll appeal and ask whether I'm still eligible because I am now in the US with my spouse. My termination date is approx 1.5 months from when my visa was issued.

Edited by Lights, 30 July 2014 - 12:18 PM.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-07-30 12:13:00

They do the calculations etc... don't worry about that. It's based on how many hours you've worked in the last year. You must still apply for EI within 4 weeks of leaving your job, but you won't receive any money until you get the EAD. I suggest faxing everything once you get to the USA (you can't do anything online besides apply, and you can do that before you move) and then you make calls, they call you back, and give your report (have you looked for a job? etc...) You can mail in the reports but it takes a great deal longer to get paid.

Thanks! I'll definitely do it within the first 2 weeks. I've definitely worked a standard 40 hours (usually doing overtime that doesn't get counted since I'm salaried) a week for the last 5 years! lol

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-04-21 15:29:00

I'm planning my POE in June. I have my interview next week. I'm starting to think and plan about the next phase... assuming I'm approved. AOS and all that stuff. I know I won't be able to be eligible for EI until I get my EAD, which I will be applying for ASAP. My fiance and I will do a quick court wedding days after my POE and plan our wedding for the following year.

For EI, I have so many questions. I have never in my life applied or even looked into EI, even though I pay into it. How do they calculate what you should be able to earn? Are the only requirement is that you are approved for EAD and you can send them that confirmation?

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-04-21 12:31:00

Philippines

noa2 extension request

Hello,

my NOA2 expired Jan 10th, but interview is on Jan 24th in Montreal. I emailed the Consulate and asked them, they said it will be re-validated at the time of interview. I assume it will be the same in your place, confirm by contacting the Consulate.

Goodluck

till_eternity

Not Telling

Canada

2014-01-15 08:58:00

Going to miss Canada

I wish I was California bound...we went to Anaheim for our honeymoon and I would of gladly stayed! I love warm weather. People here are like 'you are Canadian you must be used to it!' I may be used to it but that doesn't mean I like it! It is warmer here in Utah than home, but not a whole lot, just shorter winters mainly.

I found cheese curds at a local grocery store and was way too excited. I have also made home made donairs for a few friends that turned out fabulous!

I'm SoCal bound as well! Orange County to be specific.

So, for those who are planning children, what type of plan is better?

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-04-20 20:43:00

Going to miss Canada

Well... I'm almost there. I just had my medical exam a few days ago and I'll be going into my interview next week. I still have about 2 months to go because I'm not planning to move right away.

I'm lucky in the sense that I'm not too afraid of healthcare. My fiance and future husband has been with his company for several years (almost 10) and as a senior member of the management team, our healthcare is practically fully covered by his company. which is better than when I worked for a start-up. I paid for MSP and my extended health myself. His plan is also ridiculously good compared to what I've heard from his friends and family. Apparently there are 2 types: 1 where you HAVE to go to a doctor in your network and one that you get to choose. His company allows you to choose your own doctor etc. This makes me feel at ease. I have all my life insurance in Canada and I am making plans to pay a year of premiums in full. Considering I have to since they don't do direct deposit from a US bank. Though Sunlife will cover you in the US and Canada, they just can't take your money from the US. Having that does make me feel more at ease. I think I still would like to get additional private health care, but not sure. I have to discuss that more with my fiance.

In terms of moving... Yes, I'll miss my family and friends so very much. I am very close with my parents and not being able to see them daily or almost daily seems a bit scary to me. But my family is very excited for me and they're hoping to retire in the next few years and spend those 5-6 months in the US with us and the other in Vancouver. So it's not so bad. I'm also from Vancouver and I'm moving to SoCal, which isn't much different. Other than the horrendous traffic at certain times. Thankful that we're not residing by LA. It's nice to be by a beach though with real sun .

I don't know... I don't feel that scared. I think in the beginning I was a bit overwhelmed but now that we're closing in on the day I'm actually moving... I'm very excited. My company is also HQ'd in the US, so although I may not want to stay with them forever, I do have something familiar and a company that's willing to hire me again once I'm legally able to work. I'm glad my fiance and I waited a few years to do this... we could've done it much sooner but we really wanted to plan it out so we were financially in a good position. Although, I'm sure there are things that will pop up that we haven't planned for, we will be somewhat prepared and the struggle wouldn't be as tough as it would have been should we have done this years before.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-04-15 12:26:00

Good luck! I've got mine next week too, on May 1st

Goodluck to you too!

Just making sure... there's no fee I need to pay when I'm at the interview?

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-04-25 15:56:00

Yeah Canada the general consensus is they care less. Hey mine is in two weeks (insert panicked expletives here!!) and I'm going solo. Considering the cost of the move itself, aos fees etc...yeah he's not allowed to come up until it's to pick me up lol.

Good luck!!! I've got all my stuff organized in a binder - if you go binder route...awesome but if not try to have it in some sort of order

I have it in a envelope folder with stickies on it. Good luck with your interview! I will let you know how it goes.

I agree... we have so many fee's and expenses coming up (and me being out of work for an undisclosed period of time), we really shouldn't be spending the money. When I had the first date in June, he had planned to come. But when it got closer he just couldn't swing it. His family and him were here for a week and left yesterday. To come back again next week is a bit tricky with his work responsibilities.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-04-21 18:29:00

Just bring the necessary documents to verify your relationship with your fiancee/fiance. Dated pictures, emails, Skype messages, boarding passes, Facebook relationship status..anything to convince them that you have an authentic, ongoing relationship. Start looking for possible wedding venues and suppliers, printouts of such could also support you (although in our case, the CO didn't even bother to look at our ring binder-full of evidence of our relationship). My fiance then, now my husband, went with me.We were interviewed separately. Fortunately, we reviewed possible questions the previous night so we were pretty consistent with our answers.

Here are possible questions during the K1 interview: http://www.immihelp.com/visas/kvisa/sample-interview-questions.html

God bless on your interview, hope everything goes well!

Thank you! Great points... we have many photos. Of my family going to him to visit his family and his family coming to Canada to visit ours. We have many vendors for our wedding confirmed with both our names on the contract.

Will it be a problem if my fiance isn't there? We're trying to get a flight out for him, but he can only come in after work and must leave the following day after my interview due to work requirements. The cost of that flight, for being here for less than 24 hours, is over $550...

Read a couple of the recent Vancouver reviews:

http://www.visajourney.com/reviews/

Check out the sample interview questions:

http://www.visajourn...ontent/exampleq

Relax, get a good night's sleep, enjoy a good breakfast the day of the interview.... and then go in and ace the interview.

Good luck!

Thank you! I was trying to look for reviews and wasn't getting many from the search field.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-04-21 12:46:00

I am preparing for my K1 visa interview in Vancouver next week. Anything I should be aware of?

I woke up this morning and realize that I am just over a week away. I'm starting to get REALLY excited and nervous all at the same time.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-04-21 12:23:00

I really didn't mean to come off as condescending at all, that was not my intention. I apologize if it seemed that way.

I just asked a lady (US born citizen) I know through my mother-in-law who's husband (Canadian born citizen) sponsored his parents to move to the US (Louisiana) and she told me that because of the distance away from the border, they chose that as the more appropriate option as his job did not delegate times to go up to Canada for 6 month periods and his mother is very agoraphobic and refused to leave her house most days.

They said the downfall was that his parents weren't in a happy marriage but because they sold their home (that was basically in shambles) and had joint assets together and due to their age, they didn't have anyway to support themselves during the process if they separated and going through a divorce while adjusting status would have made things more complicated.

That the process took a lot out on his mother's condition and her and her husband's marriage.

That at one point her marriage was rocky because of all the stress to do with his parents (who apparently aren't the easiest to get along with at the best of times)

I'd have to ask her about the pension situation, I totally spaced but I'm sure that's available on the CRA somewhere?

She said overall that if they were closer to the Canadian border, they would have just visited as opposed to going through the process. His parents also changed their minds several times throughout the process as they come from a small town in Manitoba in which they had never left before. Ultimately everything worked out but her husband feels like he "tried to fix something that wasn't broken by bringing them down here and made it worse."

It just comes down to preferences, situations and circumstances, which are different for everybody. Hope that was a little more helpful. Good luck OP.

Thanks for this! It was helpful. I completely agree that if we were closer to the border and not a 3 hour plane ride away, that we would likely just go back and forth. It would be similar to driving from LA to San Diego without the border stop. But we don't live close to the border and it would mean that the only way of traveling (in a decent amount of time and not driving for over 24 hours) would be by plane. This will be fine when my parents are younger, but when they start to age and mobility becomes more challenging, I am wondering what my other options are.

The difference between my parents is that their marriage is amazing and there's nothing to be fixed. We just want them around. My mom and I spend a lot of time together and as cheesy as it sounds, she is my best friend. My parents are hilarious together and I can only try and be as solid as they are as my fiance and I enter marriage. His parents are very similar and oddly, his parents and my parents have become friends. Both visiting each other in California and Vancouver (I know, talk about modern family where not only we get along with each of our in-laws but our in-laws have become very good friends). My niece has also started calling my parents her bonus grandparents... so I guess in a way, it's more of a want for them to be close. But eventually a need when the time comes for me to take care of them. My fiance's family email, facebook, and whatsapp my parents all the time to tell them what's been happening in their lives. It just would be nice if they could be around way more when they retire.

In a perfect world (wishful thinking), my parents could spend 99% of their time with us but not give up all they've worked for in the last 35+ years when it comes to their retirement savings, pension and health care.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-04-26 13:50:00

Was this directed at me? My second post wasn't directed at you at all! It was directed at the other poster who is seemingly uptight about the words I chose to use in my first post.

By all means, do what s best for you! My post was just my two cents and only that. If your circumstances are better in the US and if your parents want to immigrate there's no reason why you shouldn't look into it further once you're done with your immigration process.

It was more to put the thread back on topic. As you said in your original post, you're not very close with your parents and I am extremely close with mine. Our experiences are different and I'm not asking about whether I want to stay in the US as my long term goal or if I thought that through. That wasn't the question or the focus of my topic.

I will admit, your first response could have been taken wrongly not just by me but by other posters as well. You were just wanting to give your two cents, and as I said I appreciate that. But your assumption that most people who move to the US are only doing it temporarily and will eventually go back in Canada is not factual. And the way you said it was a bit condescending like "are you sure you want to stay in the US? You must've not thought that through because Canada is much better and has more options." There are posters here who have made huge sacrifices to leave Canada and live in the US with it not being a short term idea. So, I can see why it wasn't taken the right way when what you meant was to just give your side of the opinion.

They can come to visit for up to 6 months each year which will fit into their plans just fine. By the time they become elderly and need your assistance you will have become (if you desire) a US citizen and can spend as much time in Canada as you wish to assist them with their elderly needs. I would not recommend moving them to the US since all their benefits are in Canada....unless the healthcare situation in the US changes dramatically in the next 10 or more years.

If you decide to move them here later then you can worry about filing for residence for them. You will need to weigh the benefits and losses of them losing Canadian residency with the benefits of them gaining US residency. Too far in the future to really make an informed decision.

Thanks! That's exactly what I'm thinking... it is far from now, but these last handful of years have gone by so fast that I'm afraid it's not sitting on my radar when it should be.

Perhaps it's a cultural thing but my parents moved my grandparents into our home and were their sole caregivers until they passed. When that time comes, I want them to be taken care of and not just visits. But it worries me about the health benefits should they need more care like my grandmother.

You should probably question your parents later. My mom was a USC and we her children took off to the far corners of the US. she could have lived with any of US later in life but she preferred to stay put with her life long friends. ust meant that she traveled to visit us or we to see her. Ultimately that was the correct choice as her friends were very important to her

Thank you. I will definitely question them as time goes on to see if things change. As mentioned in my other reply, I also think it's a very cultural thing. My parents have friends but if they had a choice to have time with their friends of time with their kids, they would chose to be close to us. A lot of my parents friends are our family members.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-04-26 11:05:00

With a life decision like this... I tend not to care about what most or many people do and worry about what feels right for me. I appreciate your opinion because you feel that Canada has more options for you. But that's not really what I'm asking nor is it really the case for me. I am pretty successful in Vancouver and have bought a home and was comfortable. I could see myself living in Vancouver my whole life... since I was born and raised here. But now that I have the opportunity to relocate, I feel that California has a lot more to offer me and the cost of living is not much different from Vancouver and SoCal. But that's me and my circumstances, which led me to ask my original questions about my parents and their inevitable retirement plan.

I understand that it's an ordeal but as I mentioned in my original post, my parents have always considered moving south for stretches of time when they retire. At first it was maybe a few weeks every few months. However this was an idea based on not having a daughter move down to California. Now that I am, it changes our dynamic a bit. They want to be around and I love them for that. My brother is also considering med school in the US, but likely not for another 2 years. Also, with my fiance and I planning on having children in the next 3-4 years, they definitely want to be around much more. It would be different, I suppose, if it were Seattle and Vancouver. Where we could drive back and forth every few weekends. But we're a plane ride away and yes, we could go back and forth every month or two, but when my parents retire, why not have them around especially when they WANT to as well. The only thing that is of concern, is what happens to their retirement plan, their health care, and their investments. Would they still be eligible to receive their RRSP and such while living outside of Canada? Should they spend half the time in Canada and keep their house as their primary residence? Obviously they wouldn't be working in the US as when they're ready they'd be retired by then. They would buy a place in California and in Canada, but does that complicate things when they are just Canadians who so happens to spend a lot of time in the US (legal amount of time)?

So, I appreciate your opinion based on your experiences but I'm not asking what most people have expressed and to second guess where I want to live. I know what's best for me and I'm just asking for information based on my situation and hoping to get insight on people who did remain in the US and who were close with their families and how did they manage that.

Edited by Lights, 26 April 2014 - 01:11 AM.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-04-26 01:02:00

Vancouverite here!

I don't have a close relationship with 98% of my family, so I can't really speak from experience, but unless you plan to stay in the US for the rest of your life, going through that whole process might be much more trouble than it's worth. Especially since Canada is just over the border, not across the ocean. Most Canadian posters on here, myself included, would like to eventually go back to Canada, so I mean I guess it depends on what your long term plans are, if you can see yourself living in the US permanently or not. Canada has a lot more to offer, in my opinion. The US just has a lower cost of living.

Thanks! I will never say never... but based on my soon to be husbands profession and mine, it looks like the US is a lot better choice for us. Also climate wise, I just can't stand the rain and the cold. It is unlikely that we will move back to Canada. The chances become much slimmer when we have children because we will not want to be a part from them, should they want to remain in the US.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-04-25 15:41:00

So, as I'm approaching the end of phase 1 for my K1 (interview is just a few days away - OMG!! breathe...) I'm starting to think about how amazing my family is and how much I will miss them. My parents from a young age always said that they planned on buying a vacation home in the US so they could spend a few months in the sun while it just rains here in rainy Vancouver. I never doubted that they'd actually do it (buy a place in Palm Springs, Arizona etc.) and it became more real when the housing market became more affordable. But now that I am moving to SoCal, my parents have been discussing this more and more. They are still young and have at least another 5 years of work left. My dad is self-employed and my mom can work PT when they decide to 'slow down'.

I know we're far from me being able to sponsor my parents over... but I'm interested to know what others have done. Has anyone ever brought their parents over? I've been thinking that since we are able to spend 180 days in the US a year or 6 months, that it may not be necessary for them to be sponsored. I would think it would be beneficial for them to have residency in Canada since their pension, retirement, and health care is all set there. But I dread the day that my parents will be too old to travel and like how my parents took care of my ailing grandparents, I would like to be there for them when that happens. I know this is years down the line but I'm an extreme planner I'm also very curious to know what others have done.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-04-25 12:30:00

Fee's - Vancouver k1 Interview

Well yay cash lol.

Any extra fees other than the...what is it $280 with dr cheema that you can warn me about?

No km not nervous. Not at all
*I'm sorry not km. bloody ad banner hovering over where I type.

The $280 for Dr. Cheema and you already paid the $240 when booking your interview. So nothing until AOS.

I don't know why I was nervous. I realize the only bad experience I've had with customs or border patrol is when I was coming back into Canada lol!

I can't wait for my house to finally sell so I can make the move...!

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-05-02 11:31:00

Fee's - Vancouver k1 Interview

I would have thought what we already paid covered that!

Odd.

We did. I brought cash just in case but they didn't ask for it. I realize that the whole confirmation email is out of date. They still ask for the previous forms that is now called DS 160. So now I have some cash

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-05-02 00:59:00

Fee's - Vancouver k1 Interview

I'm just confirming there's another fee ($240) that needs to be paid when I get to the consulate office for my interview in Vancouver. I paid a fee when I scheduled my interview ($240). But just looking over my documents on what I need to bring... the confirmation for my interview email says to bring a fee for $240.

I have the MRV Fee Receipt number when I originally paid when I booked my interview. I just want to make sure I bring what I need to.

Thanks!

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-04-28 00:31:00

Approved Canadian - Medical and Interview Review

thankyou for the info! i guess i will talk to my family doctor right away and get those if not i will get it done during medical.

I would double check with the doctor you're going to just to make sure they could do it at the medical. I wasn't aware they could, but that's also because I wasn't looking for whether that was available to me.

Good luck!

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-05-01 10:44:00

Approved Canadian - Medical and Interview Review

What vaccinations do we need? I dont have a record just Tetanus..

ill have my immigration medical soon (within couple of weeks i assume)

If you're medical is in a few weeks, you will just need your:

Tdap (make sure it's the Tdap and not just TD), MMR (MR and MM are not enough, you need an MMR), and Varicella or verbal disclosure that you had chicken pox. It is different for different age groups, but this was only required for me (26 y/o). If you're doing your medical with Dr. Cheema, they will send you a document on how to prepare.

If you don't have records, you can get tested for immunity. I can't remember what it's called, but it's a blood test and usually has a 24-48 hour turnaround. I would get that done ASAP so you don't wait until the last minute. I got my Tdap the week before my medical, but I knew I had to do it because it's a booster shot that only lasts 10 years and I was due for it. Everything else was fine and I had old records luckily.

Good luck!

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-04-30 22:29:00

Approved Canadian - Medical and Interview Review

Hi everyone!

I thought I'd write a little review for those in Canada, specifically Vancouver.

When I first got my packet 3 and I knew I would be booking my interview, I started to get super excited and anxious. My best advice is to be prepared. Have all your documents organized and make sure that all required vaccinations are completed. Once you do that, it really is a smooth ride.

Medical - Dr. Cheema

The medical was a breeze. The ladies in the reception area are very nice. They took all my paperwork and vaccination records to copy before Dr. Cheema came out to see me. Being organized helps us all and it really reduces the level of anxiety when you know you have everything. Dr Cheema is super professional and personable as well. We chit chatted about where I was moving to (Sunny California) and how my parents doesn't mind visiting because of the weather. We joked a bit while he asked the standard questions (do you do drugs, have you had mental health problems, do you drink etc.). I was in and out of the office in about 30 minutes or maybe even less. I would suggest, if you could drive, to drive. The rest of the exam (blood test and x-rays) are 12 blocks away. The blood work was very easy, the people there were also very nice. The wait wasn't so bad (about 10-15 minutes). Make sure to take a number as soon as you get in. The x-ray's took a bit longer. I waited about an hour before they took us in. They take you in groups and put you in a group changing room with stalls... if you are with someone, have them carry you belongings.

Interview - Vancouver

I got to the interview 15 minutes before 10 AM (my slot). Make sure if you can to not bring anything other then your paperwork. They'll either put your cellphone in a locker or you'll have to go across the street to Quizno's or another store to hold your things. Most people who were there had to do that. I knew ahead of time not to, so I left my cellphone and keys with someone else.

Once you get through the initial security point, you stand outside for about 15 minutes. They take you in in groups of 5. Once you get into the building and upstairs, you go through another security point. Where they ask you to take off your belt and run your jacket through a scanner. Then you wait by the elevators for another agent to take you upstairs. Once you're upstairs, the agent told me to go around the corner to the Window B. It's an open room with multiple windows/open rooms. When I got to the window, I flicked the switch once. A very nice lady came out to collect all my documents and to tell me what the process for the interview was. From then on, she gave me a number and told me to have a seat. I waited probably over an hour in the waiting room. There are other types of visa applicants that, I believe, get screened downstairs because they come upstairs with an interview number already without having to go to any other window. Luckily for me, there was another K1 applicant so we got to chat for a bit and the time went by quicker.

Finally, it was my turn. All in all the interview itself took about 5 minutes. The agent asked questions about myself and my fiance: what we do for a living, how we met, how did he propose, have we met each others family. I was also asked to provide pictures. The agent was very pleasant and we just chatted about the future. Then after a few minutes, she wished me luck and told me I was approved.

I went back to Window B where they told me what to expect... That I would get my passport and visa at the Loomis branch I chose when I selected my interview. They mentioned it would take about 5-7 business days and that I would get an email from Loomis. They did mention sometimes they don't email so after 5 days, I can check with Loomis. I was also informed that there will be a sealed packet that I cannot open (similar to your medical package) that I'll need to give at POE.

I was at the consulate at 9:45 and I was out at about 12:45. All waiting except for the 5 minute interview... glad it's done and that I really was anxious and nervous for no reason.

My notes is: organization is key. Organize your documentation and evidence. Everything else is a breeze. You cannot bring your cellphone in and there's no clock in the waiting room, so if you have a watch you can bring it. There also isn't a bathroom in the waiting room, so if you have to go (and expect to wait about an hour or more) go to bathroom before going upstairs in the elevator. I ended up bringing a book, knowing that I'll have to wait. But I didn't read it at all since I got to chat with another K1 applicant. If he's on this forum - I hope it went smooth for you!!

Good luck everyone

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-04-30 11:14:00

Whoops! I mis-typed. I meant, U-Pack. I'm definitely going with U-Pack. I don't want to drive down and we'll likely be doing California, Vegas, and then back to California with the group.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-05-11 22:37:00

I hear you Lights....it was putting the house up for sale that stressed me out big time, last time. But, I'm back doing it all again and can't wait for approval so I can list again.

Since you want a quick sale...I've known people to help out their agent by posting on kijiji and posting on work websites if your permitted. If you do, remember to re-post daily to keep your ad fresh.

Thanks for this! I'm definitely surprised at how the market is going in Vancouver. I'm in a very desirable neighbourhood close to downtown. But I know it will eventually go. I just need to be patient. Although I'm really hoping to move by beginning of July/end of June.

Luckily for me, i have realtors in my family so they are helping me out and not collecting commission. In this case, I do have more room than most when it comes to negotiating. Though, I don't want to give it away either!

lights......... love your post

yes stress stress stress........... dealing with immigration, selling stuff, selling house, selling cars, real estate agents, stress.....

did this all years ago when I moved overseas, now have to do it all over again and had ALOT less stuff then as I was s I n g l e ........ LOL

selling a house ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH ahhhhhh even less certain than uscis maybe? LOL

haha real estate is definitely less certain that USCIS! LOL. Immigration, you go through the process and hope they don't lose your file. Now that you're approved and you're in the home stretch, real estate will drag it on just a wee bit more.

Thank goodness for all the moving threads on this forum, as I'd be completely at a loss otherwise!

And I'm currently going through what razspaz13 just described... listing this coming weekend!!

I still think I'm going with Upack - have minimized what I'm going to take, but it's still way more than I can transport alone, and there's no way that I'm driving a U-haul pulling my vehicle behind it, with 2 dogs, >4000km />2000miles across Canada and the US Holy Shmokers!!

I'll gladly pay to have someone else move my stuff, then I 'only' have to worry about driving that whole distance, with 2 dogs and my most important stuff in the vehicle.

Don't forget the CBP3299 form if you're having someone else move your belongings!

Good luck Lights!

Thanks!! I should start organizing my things. I don't know if it's less appealing, but I have a den in my condo and it's filled with boxes already. Probably not the prettiest when it comes to showing, but it does show there's A LOT of space in there.

I've also decided to go with U-Haul. There's a few people coming with me when I move (my family and my best friend - they're making a vacation out of it!). And I just want my things to get there in one piece. If we were to drive, we'd make a road trip out of it since it'll take us over 24 hours of straight driving to get to where we need to be. But I don't feel great having a truck or a uhaul full of things parked in a parking lot of a hotel while we do touristy things. So we'll save the road trip for another time.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-05-11 14:12:00

Yeah, most of my furniture I'm going to sell. I'll give my TV's to my brother or bring one. I saw a company called U-Pack but I'm not sure how great they are. They basically drop off a bin for you and you fill it up and they take it door to door. The quote I got was about $1300. I'm OK paying for it since I have small chest that I want to bring that was given to me from my grandma.

The only thing I'm hoping, praying and wishing for is my place to sell... FAST. So at least I have a rough idea of when I can move.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-05-09 12:30:00

So, I've had an approved K1 visa for about 2 weeks now... and realizing it's now when the real work begins. Sure, I was anxious during the K1 application process. But with all our evidence, being organized and having all our documentation ahead of time, we knew that we would fly through the process with very little hiccups. Now that we've come this far, the real work begins. MOVING! Anyone else feel extreme stress during this time? I am super excited, but everything is so up in the air.

Due to me having to sell my condo. I realize now that I should've listed it a little earlier. It's only been on the market for about 2-3 weeks, but it's been a bit slow (and I'm in Vancouver, Vancouver and not surrounding suburbs). I'm hoping to move in June, but not sure if that's realistic. This part is probably the hardest part for me to plan. Along with that, just trying to find a reputable moving company and all that jazz. Oh boy!

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-05-09 11:49:00

As it happens...my Vancouver expedition!

And visa is in hand. And off to work I go.

Dealt with a lady named Sharon - opened the package checked the seals on the DO NOT OPEN envelope (still intact - folks if they're not do not accept delivery). Did the standard warnings - don't cross the border til you're ready to go, don't open the envelope (she actually put it in a new courier bag and sealed it to protect it further)

And I brought my old laptop to work and hopefully I'll be able to do something with my house inventory and save everything on a USB stick. Whee.

Nice!! I haven't even picked mine up yet! LOL.

They had a computer glitch apparently, so I emailed the embassy a week after my interview. I just got the waybill over the weekend. I should also track it and get it in hand.

Good luck on the next phase of your journey! weeee!

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-05-13 11:19:00

As it happens...my Vancouver expedition!

Yay!! Congrats pro_star!!!

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-05-08 20:57:00

As it happens...my Vancouver expedition!

There's also a Starbuck's across the street in the Chapters. We sat around there and had a coffee and a muffin before the medical exam!

Good luck! And yes, it's easier to get to Dr. Cheema's through HWY 99 (Oak St) versus Highway 1/Trans-Canada. Ohh.. and if you're into donuts... the only Krispy Kreme's is in that area as well... Just sayin'

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-05-05 11:44:00

K1 Visa approved, moving things just before POE?

You won't be able to move your belongings to the US before you yourself have crossed the border with your K-1 visa. The moving company is required to provide documented proof that the contents of any shipment they have belong to someone who is legally living or allowed to live in the US. Until you use your K-1 you have no legal presence in the US, so your belongings are not allowed to be there either.

You could have the movers pick up your belongings a few days before you intend to cross the border yourself and they will hold them in storage until you send them back a photocopy of the validated K-1 visa. They also used to require a copy of the I-94 but with the electronic I-94s now a days I am not sure what they do about that.

Or, you could do what I did. I had everything ready and gave the key to my apartment to one of my friends who met the moving company there 2 days after I had crossed the border and had arrived at my new home in the US. I faxed the stamped K-1 visa and the I-94 back to the moving company. They scheduled their arrival the following week and they informed me that they did need to show documentation for the 3 loads they had on the van: mine as a K-1; someone relocating on a work visa, and a returning US citizen. If they had not had that proof they would not have been allowed to cross the border until they had unloaded the undocumented items.

Here is a link to the official information about moving belongings to the US - you are allowed to bring them with you or after you (up to 10 years afterwards, in fact) but they cannot precede you:

https://help.cbp.gov...id/354/kw/trade

The moving company should have all of the forms you need to complete to satisfy US customs requirements. You just need to provide proof that you have legal presence in the US.

Great, thanks so much!

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-05-23 11:52:00

K1 Visa approved, moving things just before POE?

I have an approved K1 Visa and I am planning my POE. I've been looking for moving companies and some give various rates, like if I give them more time (2 weeks versus a few days) or if I move during the week or in the middle of the month versus end of month.

If I plan my POE on at the end of next month, but want to send my things through earlier for a better rate (mid month/during the week and it'll take a week or two to get to where I am), would I be allowed to do that? I'm thinking like 2 weeks max before my POE?

Thanks!

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-05-21 19:15:00

How long from approved interview till visa is received

I've been told that it usually takes a few days. Mine took a few weeks because there was a glitch in the system and they were unable to process my visa immediately. I think I received it a week and a bit after my interview, if not 2 weeks. I also didn't have AP or require to send in extra documentation.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-05-22 14:13:00

Passport Renewal Question

I just picked up my passport from Loomis with my approved K1 Visa in it (WHOA!). I realize that my passport still has a few years on it (expires end of 2016). I'm just prepping myself for the next phase of our immigration journey... what do I need to do when it comes to renewing my passport? I know we would want to renew it in 2015 (when traveling we need at least 6 months validity). Do I have to travel back to Canada to renew?

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-05-15 18:13:00

We're *this close* to being done with USCIS forever!!

Congrats!!! We're just planning our POE after getting approved for our K1. Although we are relatively new to the process, I can't wait for the day when I can say we're also done with all the immigration 'stuff'!

Congratulations!

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-05-20 12:24:00

POE at Vancouver International Airport

Safe travels Lights!!!

You too! You're just a few days after me If your POE stays on Jul 2. Safe travels to you too!

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-06-04 10:56:00

POE at Vancouver International Airport

The moving company gave you customs forms for what they're moving, I hope. You won't need forms or lists for what you're carrying. Go early for your flight. It took me 2 hours to get through.

You will still have the regular custom's form to fill out.

Thanks! The moving company did give me forms for the things they are bringing with me. But just wondering about the things I'm personally carrying over, not with the moving company.

Eek!! Thanks so much.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-06-03 11:53:00

POE at Vancouver International Airport

So... here we are! I booked my flight and I'm leaving Canada in a few short weeks.

I'll be flying through YVR and I have hired a moving company to pick up my things and hold it until I am across the border. Because I won't have most of my things for a week or two, I have decided to check 2 bags with my essentials. Is there any custom forms that are required? Or can I just check them in and tell them I'm moving? Show them a copy of my visa and have an itemized list in my purse?

Also, any tidbits of info about POE at YVR would be great to hear!

TIA!

Edited by Lights, 02 June 2014 - 05:45 PM.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-06-02 17:45:00

Using Nexus Card while visiting

I am not worried about CBP - I am Canadian and currently a Canadian resident so I think they care not what I am doing in the US (unless i am bringing too much stuff back). it is just entering the US that gives me pause in this process. I gather since when filing the initial K1 petition, they do not ask for my SIN number or passport number, they do not know I am doing this yet, right? In either case, I am armed with property tax bills and utility bills, as well as a voter card and a doctor's appointment scheduled in July and August. Hoping that will suffice for now. Next time I take my dad to the doctor, i will ask him for a letter stating that I am dad's primary caregiver as well.

Whirlpool is great! I just got notice yesterday actually that you can use EZ pass at all the Niagara bridges, except Whirlpool. You need to put money on your Nexus card at the US-side kiosk the first time (you can just put on 5 bucks) and then you can add more online subsequent to that first time. Anyway, I have never seen more than 6 cars at Whirlpool and that was long due to construction or something.

Regarding the church of Wegmans. Wegmans give me so much Joy. We are along the lake just beyond Angola, so it really isn't on the way, but we will likely be moving shortly to a place that is very close to Orchard Park. This pleases me greatly. Wegmans and Premier Wine!!!!

We filed our K1 in January (while I was in the US for work, actually) and I traveled back and forth to the US many times while our application was pending and subsequently when our petition was approved.

I was even in the US for 4.5 weeks (half work and half play). I traveled when I had my interview set at the embassy. I never was given a tough time (touch wood) because I was always honest and disclosed information they asked for. I have found that when I disclosed we were going through the K1 visa route, they just let me through. I guess they think why would someone pay all that money and start the process (the correct way) just to muck it up by overstaying? Especially when you have proof of ties to Canada. I'm not sure what the agent see's but maybe they see all previous entries and no overstays.

Another thing that helps is an employment letter or proof of employment. We once met in Seattle and crossing by car is a bit different then plane (where you can show proof of return flight). When I went through by car, I just made sure I had meetings booked in the office etc. in case they asked for it.

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-06-05 13:33:00

Using Nexus Card while visiting

I used my nexus all the time when crossing by plane... no issues over here. I'd be ask "who are you visiting?" and I said "My fiance", there was a few times where the agent asked what our plans were and we just said we are following K1 procedures. They would congratulate us on getting engaged and then just let me through. I also brought back up (i.e. other flight itineraries coming out of Vancouver because I travel for work within US and Canada, my mortgage papers, and utility bills).

Lights

Not Telling

Canada

2014-06-04 11:32:00