ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F and fiancee Passport
QUOTE (payxibka @ Aug 11 2009, 10:55 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (oregon30 @ Aug 11 2009, 09:53 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Aug 11 2009, 09:27 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (oregon30 @ Aug 11 2009, 10:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi everyone I am new to this forum, So I want to thank everybody in advance for the future help I'll get from you all. I am planning to send the I-129F this month my Fiancee Passport will be deliver to her on September this year, she lives in Ukraine, so my question here is Do I need to wait till she get her passport in hand before I sent the I-129F forms? I think somebody told me that she needs her passport to be able to translate her name the way is state on her Passport is this correct?

Thank a lot guys.

Jo.


She does not need her passport in hand before you file for the petition. You do not need her passport for the petition but she will need it for the interview, sounds like you are OK for that. As for the English transliteration of her name...my wife does translations for Ukrainian and Russian fiancee visas, there are dozens of ways names are transliterated. The consulate in Kiev will accept any reasonable transliteration of her name on documents, do not worry about that. They will issue the visa in her name exactly as it is transliterated in her passport.

My wifes name is very simple...Alla. There is really only ONE way to transliterate it. But our sons had their names in no less three different spellings on various documents (Russian spelling, Ukrainian spelling and transliterated..such as Sergey, Sergei, Sergii for example) There were no problems with this at all. The US consulate in Kiev (and Moscow) are well aware of the "name game". Alla tries to make her translations consistent but it seems an impossible task sometimes. Don't worry about it though.


Thanks again guys you really help me a lot, now I have another question on my mind can she send me a digital photo for her passport and printed here in the US to send it with the fI-129F ?


She could, but you do NOT need it

you mean i don't need her passport picture?
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-08-11 22:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F and fiancee Passport
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Aug 11 2009, 09:27 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (oregon30 @ Aug 11 2009, 10:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi everyone I am new to this forum, So I want to thank everybody in advance for the future help I'll get from you all. I am planning to send the I-129F this month my Fiancee Passport will be deliver to her on September this year, she lives in Ukraine, so my question here is Do I need to wait till she get her passport in hand before I sent the I-129F forms? I think somebody told me that she needs her passport to be able to translate her name the way is state on her Passport is this correct?

Thank a lot guys.

Jo.


She does not need her passport in hand before you file for the petition. You do not need her passport for the petition but she will need it for the interview, sounds like you are OK for that. As for the English transliteration of her name...my wife does translations for Ukrainian and Russian fiancee visas, there are dozens of ways names are transliterated. The consulate in Kiev will accept any reasonable transliteration of her name on documents, do not worry about that. They will issue the visa in her name exactly as it is transliterated in her passport.

My wifes name is very simple...Alla. There is really only ONE way to transliterate it. But our sons had their names in no less three different spellings on various documents (Russian spelling, Ukrainian spelling and transliterated..such as Sergey, Sergei, Sergii for example) There were no problems with this at all. The US consulate in Kiev (and Moscow) are well aware of the "name game". Alla tries to make her translations consistent but it seems an impossible task sometimes. Don't worry about it though.


Thanks again guys you really help me a lot, now I have another question on my mind can she send me a digital photo for her passport and printed here in the US to send it with the fI-129F ?


oregon30MaleUkraine2009-08-11 21:53:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F and fiancee Passport
Hi everyone I am new to this forum, So I want to thank everybody in advance for the future help I'll get from you all. I am planning to send the I-129F this month my Fiancee Passport will be deliver to her on September this year, she lives in Ukraine, so my question here is Do I need to wait till she get her passport in hand before I sent the I-129F forms? I think somebody told me that she needs her passport to be able to translate her name the way is state on her Passport is this correct?

Thank a lot guys.

Jo.
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-08-11 21:12:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiancee visa check list
QUOTE (thepizzadude @ Aug 13 2009, 08:26 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (oregon30 @ Aug 13 2009, 07:52 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Starlight95 @ Aug 13 2009, 08:30 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (oregon30 @ Aug 13 2009, 07:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Anh map @ Aug 13 2009, 08:10 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Read the K1 Guide here on VJ. You are missing: your G325, both of you need to execute affidavits of intent to marry, copy of your divorce decree, proof of your US citizenship, proof of having met in the last 2 years.



I read that link regarding the requariments, but when I went to the USCIS office they only gave me the forms I-129f, G-325A and G-325 that's is that's all they old me to fill out and the more I read about it in the forums I feel I am missing a lot of stuff.

Thanks for your help, I really apreciate it

Jo.



They are just going to give you the necessary forms you need. But, listen to your fellow VJ members as they have been through this. You need letters from both you and your fiance with the intent to marry. Make sure you have your divorce decree. Usually, it is good to send a certified copy. Also, if you have pictures of both of you together make sure you send that as evidence.



So does my fiance needs to sign any of the forms? I am kind of confuse with the G-325 and G-325A


Yes she needs to sign the G-325A and I would make sure and use the old form that has 4 copies and instructions for a total of 5 pages, she needs to sign all 4 pages.
The I-129F instructions still say to use the G-325A, so I don't think you need the G-325.
She also needs to sign the letter of intent to marry.
Thats really all that requires her signature, to be safe if you are having her send you these via mail then have her sign 2 sets in case something happens to one.

Thanks again guys.
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-08-13 20:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiancee visa check list
QUOTE (Starlight95 @ Aug 13 2009, 08:30 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (oregon30 @ Aug 13 2009, 07:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Anh map @ Aug 13 2009, 08:10 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Read the K1 Guide here on VJ. You are missing: your G325, both of you need to execute affidavits of intent to marry, copy of your divorce decree, proof of your US citizenship, proof of having met in the last 2 years.



I read that link regarding the requariments, but when I went to the USCIS office they only gave me the forms I-129f, G-325A and G-325 that's is that's all they old me to fill out and the more I read about it in the forums I feel I am missing a lot of stuff.

Thanks for your help, I really apreciate it

Jo.



They are just going to give you the necessary forms you need. But, listen to your fellow VJ members as they have been through this. You need letters from both you and your fiance with the intent to marry. Make sure you have your divorce decree. Usually, it is good to send a certified copy. Also, if you have pictures of both of you together make sure you send that as evidence.



So does my fiance needs to sign any of the forms? I am kind of confuse with the G-325 and G-325A
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-08-13 19:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiancee visa check list
QUOTE (Anh map @ Aug 13 2009, 08:10 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Read the K1 Guide here on VJ. You are missing: your G325, both of you need to execute affidavits of intent to marry, copy of your divorce decree, proof of your US citizenship, proof of having met in the last 2 years.



I read that link regarding the requariments, but when I went to the USCIS office they only gave me the forms I-129f, G-325A and G-325 that's is that's all they old me to fill out and the more I read about it in the forums I feel I am missing a lot of stuff.

Thanks for your help, I really apreciate it

Jo.
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-08-13 19:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiancee visa check list
Hello guys I would like to check if I have all I need before I send my fiance visa package to the USCIS.

This is what I got:

Form I-129F
Form G-325
Form G-325A
passport pictures 1 from me and 1 from my fiance
check to pay for petition $455


Now other questions: Does my fiance need to sing any of the forms? considering I am divorce is there any extra document that I need to send attache to the package? somebody mention to me that I'll need to add the next documents to the petition is this true?

A copy of fiance birth certificate (translated and notarized)
A copy of her passport
Biographical form G-325 with her original signatures (2 copies)
Affidavit of intent to get married



Thanks guys.

oregon30MaleUkraine2009-08-13 18:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresno need to send G-325 form?
QUOTE (Brad and Vika @ Aug 16 2009, 06:32 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Yep.



Thanks guys I've been seeing forms all day long so my brain is over loaded with many info LOL smile.gif
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-08-16 19:24:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresno need to send G-325 form?
hey guys to file I-129F as long as I have the I-325A include on the package, I still need to fill the I-325 form?

Thanks
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-08-16 18:03:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCover letter review
Hi here is my cover letter could you check I f I m missing something, so I can type it.

Thanks in advance

Jo.




I-129F Cover Letter

Name/Address Petitioner


United States Department of Homeland Security
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services


California Service Center
P.O. BOX 10130
Laguna Niguel, CA 92607-0130
8/31/2009


Nature of the submission: I-129F ORIGINAL SUBMISSION


To Whom It May Concern:


Enclosed please find my Form I-129F, Petition for K-1 Fiancee Visa for Svetlana Akimova Aleksandrovna, and supporting documents.
Contents include:

- Payment in the amount of $455.00
- I-129F
- G-325A and passport style photo (Petitioner)
- G-325A and passport style photo (Beneficiary)
- Birth certificate/US Passport (Petitioner)
- Letter certifying intent to marry (Petitioner and Beneficiary)
- Proof of having met in person in the past two years


Copies of documents submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered documents and I understand that I may be required to submit original documents to an Immigration or Consular officer at a later date.



Yours truly,



Print Name ( Petitioner )
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-08-16 15:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCapital letters on G-325A
QUOTE (Stephen + Elisha @ Aug 19 2009, 07:48 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
In order to be consistent with the I-129F, I entered the family name in caps on the G-325A.

You won't go wrong if you follow the VisaJourney example G-325A in filling out your forms.




thank you
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-08-19 19:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCapital letters on G-325A
Hi every one, do you know if in the G-325A form the family name have to go with capital letters? or only on the I-129F this is important? also about the capital letters is on the family name the only part where I should use capital letters on the G-325A?

Thanks

Jo.
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-08-19 19:44:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresreligious wedding while waiting for visa aproval
QUOTE (canadian_wife @ Aug 27 2009, 09:25 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JimVaPhuong @ Aug 27 2009, 08:26 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Minor point... they would not qualify for the K1. They would still qualify for the K3, which also uses the I-129F.


Sorry, I should have been clearer, but since this post was on the K-1 forum, I figured we all knew the I-129F in this situation was for the K-1.

OP - Good luck, I wouldn't risk anything that might be interpreted as a marriage at this point. Waiting is tough, but reapplying is tougher



Thanks to everybody for your help smile.gif
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-08-27 10:48:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresreligious wedding while waiting for visa aproval
Hello everyone, do you know if after sending the I-129F I could get marry in my fiancee country only by religuos wedding ceremony, not the civil one?

Thanks.
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-08-27 06:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F copies
QUOTE (alicjaftw @ Sep 3 2009, 08:28 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (oregon30 @ Sep 3 2009, 07:06 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello everyone, how many copies of the I-129F form do I need to send with the packages, my guess is 4, is this correct?

thanks


You only need to send in one copy of the I-129F form and 1 copy of the G-325A form ... if you look on the USCIS website and download the newest versions of each form, you'll see that the G-325A is now only one page.

Hope this helps! smile.gif



You mean one copy and original for the I-129F? what about the passport pictures? is it only 1 photo from petitioner and 1 photo from benefeciary?
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-09-03 20:32:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F copies
QUOTE (milan dalsania @ Sep 3 2009, 09:15 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (oregon30 @ Sep 3 2009, 09:06 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello everyone, how many copies of the I-129F form do I need to send with the packages, my guess is 4, is this correct?

thanks


You only need to send in one copy of I-129F.
you need to send it 4 copies of G-325A biographic information for both you and your fiancee.



thank you
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-09-03 20:24:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F copies
Hello everyone, how many copies of the I-129F form do I need to send with the packages, my guess is 4, is this correct?

thanks
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-09-03 20:06:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurescheck been cash but not NOA1 yet
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Sep 11 2009, 04:56 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (oregon30 @ Sep 11 2009, 04:41 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Sep 11 2009, 03:22 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (oregon30 @ Sep 11 2009, 03:09 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Brad and Vika @ Sep 11 2009, 02:52 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Same experience for us. Check was cashed - then the NOA1 arrived. That notice is probably on the way. Have you checked online with USCIS?



I can barely see the WAC number on the bank statement online, that;s why I am not able to check on the USCIS website yet


Jo

The USCIS webiste, which is accurate only 35% of the time (being generous to them) will say "received and pending" IF it is accurate in your case. If it is NOT accurate, 65% chance, it may say nothing. Makes no difference. Today is Alla's ONE YEAR anniversary of arriving in the USA and our case still shows "received and pending" I couldn't possibly care less what that system says.

Enter the date they cashed your check as the NOA1 date on the VJ system and get the most accurate assessment possible.

Really, Jo, save yourself alot of headache. Do not try to track this case like a Fedex package, it doesn't work that way. It will drive you crazy and blood will squirt from your eyes. Be getting your interview documents ready, she can get her police certificate now, make sure evrything is prepared, start a "relationship" file and starting putting evidence into it. Start preparing your home for your new bride who will arrive sooner than you think. Try to do productive activity for your case. Repeatedly checking that useless online system will only waste your time and make you nuts.



got it, seems to me that getting a K1 visa is more trouble than becoming a Citizen, it took me only 4.5 month the whole process to become one. and I just sent the forms and I got the letter for appointment for fingerprints and interview and there you go next day you are citizen. I will do the same way not to worry about anything and just let the water run down smile.gif



How dignified of you to refer to it as "water".

This process is a WHOLE lot easier if you do not worry yourself about what the government is doing. I sent off the petition and never looked at my case online until AFTER I got the approval in the mail. And they have it wrong, of course. I am not one to be poking my head in where I may not want to see something and I have way too much experience with various governments to waste my time with them and their silly online systems. I will NOT chew their bubble-gum.

I bought an old house and busted my butt for nearly a year remodeling it, increasing the pace after filing the petition. I was sweeping the mess off the front porch the morning I went to get Alla at the airport (one year ago TODAY!!!!!!! Woo hoo!) And never troubled my mind with the USCIS.


Just because I live life in a real time mode smile.gif
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-09-11 21:11:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurescheck been cash but not NOA1 yet
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Sep 11 2009, 03:22 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (oregon30 @ Sep 11 2009, 03:09 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Brad and Vika @ Sep 11 2009, 02:52 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Same experience for us. Check was cashed - then the NOA1 arrived. That notice is probably on the way. Have you checked online with USCIS?



I can barely see the WAC number on the bank statement online, that;s why I am not able to check on the USCIS website yet


Jo

The USCIS webiste, which is accurate only 35% of the time (being generous to them) will say "received and pending" IF it is accurate in your case. If it is NOT accurate, 65% chance, it may say nothing. Makes no difference. Today is Alla's ONE YEAR anniversary of arriving in the USA and our case still shows "received and pending" I couldn't possibly care less what that system says.

Enter the date they cashed your check as the NOA1 date on the VJ system and get the most accurate assessment possible.

Really, Jo, save yourself alot of headache. Do not try to track this case like a Fedex package, it doesn't work that way. It will drive you crazy and blood will squirt from your eyes. Be getting your interview documents ready, she can get her police certificate now, make sure evrything is prepared, start a "relationship" file and starting putting evidence into it. Start preparing your home for your new bride who will arrive sooner than you think. Try to do productive activity for your case. Repeatedly checking that useless online system will only waste your time and make you nuts.



got it, seems to me that getting a K1 visa is more trouble than becoming a Citizen, it took me only 4.5 month the whole process to become one. and I just sent the forms and I got the letter for appointment for fingerprints and interview and there you go next day you are citizen. I will do the same way not to worry about anything and just let the water run down smile.gif

oregon30MaleUkraine2009-09-11 15:41:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurescheck been cash but not NOA1 yet
QUOTE (Brad and Vika @ Sep 11 2009, 02:52 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Same experience for us. Check was cashed - then the NOA1 arrived. That notice is probably on the way. Have you checked online with USCIS?



I can barely see the WAC number on the bank statement online, that;s why I am not able to check on the USCIS website yet
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-09-11 14:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurescheck been cash but not NOA1 yet
QUOTE (Stephen + Elisha @ Sep 11 2009, 11:49 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
It would be very rare for you to receive the NOA1 hardcopy in the mail before the check is cashed.

I presume you use online banking, since you know that the check was cashed. Go onto the website and view the check image. On the back, in the endorsement area, you should see a number that starts with WAC followed by ten digits. This is your USCIS receipt number. You should be able to use that number on the USCIS website to get your NOA1 date. good.gif




thanks for the info
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-09-11 10:59:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurescheck been cash but not NOA1 yet
Hello guys I am just giving you an update on my case status, the package was sent on Friday September 4th, receive in California Center on the 9th, check was cash today the 11th but Still haven't get any NOA1 on the mail, I think somebody mention that I would receive the NOA1 in the mail before my check is cash. is there any chance that I won't get any NOA1 in the mail? after how long waiting do I need to call USCIS to find out about my case Number?

thanks.

Jo.
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-09-11 10:26:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurespackage sent. Now more questions
QUOTE (thongd4me @ Sep 8 2009, 12:43 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (oregon30 @ Sep 7 2009, 11:50 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
so when did you check was cash? before or after you get your NOA1?


I too am at the NOA1 step:

MONDAY
08/24/2009 I-129F mailed

THURSDAY - same week
08/27/2009 I-129F return receipt sent to me, received 08/31/2009.

MONDAY - one week later (I knew it was approved when I saw the check was cleared)
08/31/2009 ck@$455.00 for I-129F petition cashed

WEDNESDAY - 9 days later (NOA1 date was 3 days after I-129F was mailed)
09/02/2009 I-797C, NOA1 hard copy received, dated 08/27/2009

On my timeline my NOA1 date is 08/27/2009

Good luck.



thanks for the info. that helps me alot
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-09-08 13:44:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurespackage sent. Now more questions
QUOTE (Iris&Norman @ Sep 7 2009, 09:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
This is how our I-129F mailing progressed. Used USPS money order.
07-26-09 I-129F mailed, USPS Priority Certified signature confirmation return receipt
(Portland Airport Retail Station is open till 10pm 7 days a week)
07-29-09 USPS verified delivery using Certified tracking number online
07-29-09 USCIS receipt date
07-30-09 NOA1 (I-797C receipt) sent from USCIS
07-31-09 USCIS online status, case last updated, (a touch; put in storage?)
08-03-09 USPS return receipt received
08-04-09 I-797C hardcopy received



so when did you check was cash? before or after you get your NOA1?
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-09-07 22:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurespackage sent. Now more questions
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Sep 7 2009, 03:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
No. But they will say bad words about you as they pull out the staples. You'll get over it.


hahahahahahaha So I am okay, I am used to that LOL

thanks
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-09-07 14:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurespackage sent. Now more questions
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Sep 7 2009, 12:47 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (oregon30 @ Sep 7 2009, 01:50 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello everyone, thanks for all the help to complete my K1 package, it's been sent last week, but since I don't trust the us mail at all due to issues in the past, I have this new set of questions, package was sent it priority and deliver confirmation, my questions are as follow, once they receive the package how long does it take for the USCIS to cash the check? because it have happen to me before that the only way I know they got something is when I see on my bank statement that they cash the check. also what's next after they got the package? I am not familiar with several terms use in this site, forgive my ignorance but to me becoming us citizen was more easy than dealing with this K1 visa smile.gif

Thanks in advance.


You are wise to use delivery confirmation. NEVER send ANYTHING to ANY government agency without delivery confirmation. That said, once you receive confirmation of delivery expect the check to hit your bank within 5 business days. I have seen it take as long as 8 business days, but that is rare. IF it does not, then expct to receive your entire package returned, with your check, about two weeks after it was sent.

When your package first arrives, they give it the "once over" and put it into their file in the order they choose. Any assembly you did will be disassembled and ordered how they want. Though they tell US not to use staples, THEY will staple together the pertinent parts that they want. Each piece of paper is stamped as recived along the right edge. IF they find something major missing...such as the I-129f form, the check, or a missing signature or even a signature in the wrong place (i.e. you signed in the place for the preparer) they will REJECT the petition and send it back to you.

IF your package appears to be intact and signatures and vital forms are there, they accept the package for processing and send a receipt notice, I-797C commonly called the NOA1 here on VJ. ALL notices of any kind are called I-797Cs "Notice of Action" The FIRST NOA is usually the receipt, but CAN be the rejection. The second Notice of Action, often called NOA2 is often the approval, but can be an RFE. At any rate if you ever call USCIS (and there is absolutely no reason to ever call them) and use the term NOA1 or NOA2, they will have absolutely NO IDEA what you are talking about. Those are common VJ terms.

Anyway, this first review is in no way a "processing" of your case, it is merely a quick glance by a NON-adjudicator. So assuming your case is accepted (most are) your check gets detached and sent off to the department for depositing checks which is NOT done every day (there is no particular time for this, at least not at VSC, it is done "whenever") A recipt for your case is ordered. It will be printed and sent in no particular hurry because the receipt is a worthless piece of paper and has absolutely NO AFFECT on the processing of your case. It will inform you what you already know by then. Your case was received and is processing. You can get your case number off the back of your cancelled check and then you can play with the worthless USCIS online update system which is inaccurate 65.3% of the time. 18% of filers get approvals and are never updated, still showing "pending" years after their fiancee are here, get married and have green cards or are even citizens. But if it makes you feel better, you can get the case number off your check and play with it. If it takes a MONTH to receive the NOA1 it will make no difference to your case, and your NOA1 date will be about the day it was received, even if it takes a month to get the letter. If you want to use VJs system of guessing your NOA2 date, you can use the day your package is delivered as the NOA1 date...close enough. When you get your receipt you can change it if you want. VJs system is tons better than the government system but not precise in any way, DO NOT be buying plane tickets or booking wedding dates based on anyone's estimates. Wait until the VISA is your your fiancees HAND, delivered by Fedex to her.

Now that your case has been delivered and accepted...you WAIT. While waiting you can prepare all your interview documents, which for Kiev is particularly important because in Kiev YOU set the interview date and it is the first date after they have your case that you are ready. Right now Kiev is running 5 days or less for scheduling interviews. If you have everything ready you can schedule an interview within 5 days of when they enter the case in their system.

Hopefully your case gets approved without RFE. Typically your first indication you are approved is a letter in your mailbox. The online email notification is not reliable and the excitement over so-called "touches" is completely unwarranted. I live within sight, literally, of the VSC. My neighbor is a USCIS supervisor at the VSC (and NO she will not discuss why they have become slow) and she says a "touch" is "NEVER a good thing and usually not a bad thing...just a thing" IF your case is "clean" it will be processed in about 15 minutes from when they get to it, it will take them a few months to get to it. There will be no "touch" It will be picked up, reviewed, and approved, or an RFE. If you receive a "touch" it means your case SHOULD have been approved if everything was in order, but everything was NOT in order and they are waiting for an answer or verification on somthing or another...or worse. Sometimes the answer is received quickly and the case is approved shortly after a "touch" other times it is held up for months in AP, generates an RFE, etc. Also, at least at VSC, they use some outside, offsite adjudicators. These people "telecommute" so to speak. I do not know if CSC does the same but I suspect yes. IF your case gets assigned to one of these people it will also show a "touch". They take these files offsite (home) and adjudicate them and bring them back. They do this, basically on their own schedule. At any rate, I always smile at the people who get so excited about a "touch" though it DOES indicate your case made it out from under the table leg and in front of someone's face and I guess that can be cause for celebration.

So that's it. Should you call USCIS. No. The call center is known as the misinforamtion line for good reason. USCIS does not do business by phone, they are not Fedex or UPS, your case number is NOT a tracking number. There is no meaningful way to track your case and the call center is not even staffed by USCIS employees. They are call center employees answering telephones for many agencies and probably do not even KNOW what a K-1 visa IS. They plug your question into a computer and the computer gives them the answer most closely matching your question. The person you speak to has NO IDEA if it is a correct answer and couldn't care less. The operator you speak to has access to EXACTLY the same computer update system you do , which is inaccurate 65% of the time. If you get an accurate answer from the call cente, it is a complete coincidence. Even a blind squirrel can find an acorn every now and again. If you manage to get your call "kicked up" to an "immigration officer" you will get a vague, but more intelligent "answer" which you will realize 10 minutes after hanging up is not an answer at all, but it did delay you for 30 days or so (which is when they will tell you to call back) It is a gamble and nothing else. Like a "lifetime" warranty on a replacement muffler. You are 4-5 months into the process before you call...all frustrated. They tell you to wait 30 days and call again. There is a good chance, probably 80%, you will be approved within another 30 days and will never call again. Mission accomplished.

So spend your wait time preparing you documents for the interview and add a room onto your house or something. Good luck



thanks for the info, so if I sent the package with some document staples does that mean I am in trouble?
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-09-07 14:34:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurespackage sent. Now more questions
QUOTE (Rhiann @ Sep 7 2009, 01:18 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
You should get your NOA1 before you check is cashed.
I've noticed most people do, that way you know they have your package.

After you get your NOA1, you should sign up for e-mail notifications.
You can do so here:

https://egov.uscis.g.../jsps/index.jsp

Now, not everyone will get email notifications or no date change on the website.
Most people do though.

And a "touch" is basically when someone picks up the package and moves it or does something with it.
Here's an example from my timeline:

I was touched May 18th. That was 3 days after my NOA1 date and 2 days before the check was cashed. My guess to it was that they went to the package and took the check out.

Touches can mean just about anything, but they're a good indication to letting you know they still have your case and it wasn't put in a wrong pile.


got it thanks

oregon30MaleUkraine2009-09-07 02:03:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurespackage sent. Now more questions
QUOTE (Rhiann @ Sep 7 2009, 01:53 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
From what I noticed, they cash checks in waves.
I don't think they cash them every day. I think every few days or so, so it depends when your package gets there.
I'd maybe say 10 days tops.

And then after you get the NOA1 and your check is cashed, you wait for the NOA2. It's pretty much a waiting game inbetween.
NOA = Notice of Action.



thanks for the info that helps me not to worry if I don't get the confirmation on the mail from the USPS or even online, and above that if I don't see the check being cash before 10 days. by the way what does that mean touch?
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-09-07 01:00:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurespackage sent. Now more questions
Hello everyone, thanks for all the help to complete my K1 package, it's been sent last week, but since I don't trust the us mail at all due to issues in the past, I have this new set of questions, package was sent it priority and deliver confirmation, my questions are as follow, once they receive the package how long does it take for the USCIS to cash the check? because it have happen to me before that the only way I know they got something is when I see on my bank statement that they cash the check. also what's next after they got the package? I am not familiar with several terms use in this site, forgive my ignorance but to me becoming us citizen was more easy than dealing with this K1 visa smile.gif

Thanks in advance.
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-09-07 00:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresco-sponsor question.
[quote name='christeen' date='Dec 22 2009, 08:50 PM' post='3582671']
Yes, they can be a LPR... Just send copy of greencard



thanks a lot smile.gif

oregon30MaleUkraine2009-12-22 21:03:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresco-sponsor question.
does the co-sponsor needs to be USC or can just be permanent resident?

Thanks
oregon30MaleUkraine2009-12-22 20:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNon-legal wedding ceremony before getting a visa???
QUOTE (Future Mrs Disney @ Jun 3 2009, 08:38 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Some people here pointed out that a pastor or a minister in America has the authority to marry you, legally. If that's not the case in your country, then I think you should be ok with a religious ceremony. I'm glad I got that checked out.


marriage has nothing to do with religion. that part is only in your mind.

a marriage is a legal contract between three parties: you, your SO, and the county you reside in.

so you can do whatever you want, the only legality is where the paperwork is filed. the pastor and minister have the power to officiate, same as Sheriff Andy Griffith or the captain of a ship. But it's not legal until you register at the county clerk's office.

(this is also why i have no problem with gay marriage.)

I should point out that we intend to do the same thing. There will be a Buddhist wedding ceremony in Thailand after the visa is approved, but we'll file the paperwork in the US.
Alan D.MaleThailand2009-06-03 20:06:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F question 7
QUOTE (Alan D. @ Jun 6 2009, 09:32 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I know I forgot to put this one in and its been worrying me... I'm still waiting for my NOA2 (or maybe RFE now sad.gif )
On had 2 other name changes (first name) which I did put in -- and it didnt leave any room for prior married name anyway. Her divorce papers went in... but maybe she could just say she never changed last names when she got married?


and that brings up something I thought was a bit funny, but a total pain when I was doing the 129... Thai people changing their names whenever they feel like it.. arrgh.. On had 2 name changes, and her son had 3. and yes -- I had 5 certificates of name changes with translations and attestations in the packet.

Then the other day she was saying her son wanted to change his name again.. I had to tell her please no, wait until the 129 is approved first. hah
Alan D.MaleThailand2009-06-06 23:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F question 7
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Jun 6 2009, 07:25 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (katochan @ Jun 6 2009, 04:59 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I've searched the forum and couldn't find an answer to my question so here's my first post.
I'm in the middle of making a I-129F package.

Other Names Used.

My fiance is divorced and her name officially changed back to her original name.
So, for question 7, should I answer None, or should I enter her prior spouse's last name?

Thanks!


Include prior married name(s)


I know I forgot to put this one in and its been worrying me... I'm still waiting for my NOA2 (or maybe RFE now sad.gif )
On had 2 other name changes (first name) which I did put in -- and it didnt leave any room for prior married name anyway. Her divorce papers went in... but maybe she could just say she never changed last names when she got married?
Alan D.MaleThailand2009-06-06 23:32:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 Interview - "Quit Claim" letter
QUOTE (JimVaPhuong @ Jun 25 2009, 05:46 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
It may be possible for your fiancee to get a child support order against her son's father once she arrives in the US, since he is under jurisdiction of the US courts. Threatening his wallet can be a very strong motivator to get him to negotiate. Many states will allow him to be relieved of his support obligations by giving up his parental rights and allowing you to adopt his child once you marry the child's mother. Consult with an attorney and see if this is possible. If so, have the attorney draw up a letter notifying the father of your intent to enforce his parental obligations as long as he continues to assert to his parental rights. This might bring him around.


Good answer. US Courts are very prejudiced against deadbeat dads.

Unfortunately I have known women who abused the system just to get money and vice-versa -- one sleaze dad who took the kids just so he wouldn't have to hand out money to his ex.

Glad to see the system could be used for good.

Alan D.MaleThailand2009-06-25 10:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion.
QUOTE (JimVaPhuong @ Jul 6 2009, 11:42 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I'll give you an example. smile.gif

You see my avatar? That's me and my fiancee at our engagement ceremony. What you don't see are the 40 other people in attendance for the ceremony (including representatives of my family who flew to Vietnam just for this occasion), nor the Buddhist temple behind the garden we are standing in, nor the fancy gifts presented by my family procession to hers, nor the dozen Buddhist monks in attendance. The outfits we are wearing are
..


Jim, that is way cool to hear. I know I will be experiencing something similar with a Thai Buddhist wedding. I know there is (traditionally) supposed to be an engagement ceremony to go along with that, but we haven't talked about that part at all.
Some cultures are endlessly fascinating and I will always feel profound awe and appreciation for what appear to me to be strange traditions. But it's beautiful nonetheless.
I also liked your explanation of why it was important. I never thought about it that much.
Alan D.MaleThailand2009-07-10 16:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCover letter
QUOTE (amitinredmond @ Jul 28 2009, 10:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Sorry - if this is a redundant post.

The cover letter as posted on this forum is pretty straight forward outlining the enclosures in the packet. Does it hurt if I explain my case in the cover letter for the most part and continue the 'how we met' in question 18? Or should the cover letter be as brief as it has been posted?

Thanks!


I found a good guide on some other site, that said the cover letter should detail all the stuff that was to follow.
Any explanation should be a separate thing that the cover letter just lists as a supporting item.

Here's that example letter. I used it, and mine was a lot longer because I included a bunch of extra information for our particular case (passport for dependent child, ADIT photo of dependent child, divorce certificate, translation of divorce certificate, statement of translator for divorce certificate, name change1, name change 2, etc etc)


[PETITIONER
ADDRESS]

United States Department of Homeland Security
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
[ADDRESS
OF YOUR
SERVICE CENTER]
[DATE]
Nature of the submission: I-129F ORIGINAL SUBMISSION
To Whom It May Concern:
Enclosed please find my Form I-129F, Petition for K-1 Fiancé[e] Visa for [BENEFICIARY NAME], and supporting documents.
Contents include:
- Payment in the amount of $ [PUT IN CORRECT FEE].
- I-129F
- I-129F Supplement: Part B, Question 18, explanation of meeting in person [ONLY IF USED ADDITIONAL SHEET]
- G-325A and passport style photo (Petitioner)
- G-325A and passport style photo (Beneficiary)
- Birth certificate/US Passport (Petitioner)
- Letter certifying intent to marry (Petitioner and Beneficiary)
- Proof of having met in person in the past two years
- Proof of ongoing relationship [if including]


Copies of documents submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered documents and I understand that I may be required to submit original documents to an Immigration or Consular officer at a later date.

Signed,
[PETITIONERS SIGNATURE]


Alan D.MaleThailand2009-07-29 20:33:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresgot the NOA2 in the mail today :)
QUOTE (scotty's girl @ Jul 29 2009, 05:37 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi everyone!
I just want to share my happiness and to ask some questions. My fiance got the NOA2 in the mail today. We're both very happy.
What do we do next? How long will it take before they forward the papers to the NVC and from there to the USEM? Will appreciate your replies guys. Thanks!


Congrats my visa brother! Me too!. My NOA2 in my mailbox today also.
Alan D.MaleThailand2009-07-29 19:26:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresImportant questions before we send away our petition!
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Jul 29 2009, 06:04 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
1. NO. Just her name printed in pencil. Do not worry about it being within 30 days. Make lots of passport photos. We made about 15 to begine with and used the same photo throughout the process, as long as there is no major appearance changes

2. No.

3. No. Send it anytime

4. No staples. paper clip the assocaited items together and a binder clip on the whole thing. Anything else is not needed. The USCIS will disassemble anything you send and put in their own folder.

5. I sent ONE photo, passport stamps and boarding passes for the trip where we met

6. Typed, handwritten or any combination thereof as long as it is legible


GaryandAlla I just want to say that I have seen your replies to various questions in these forums with your experience and knowledge and your answers to questions in these forums are always clear, easy to read, to-the-point, and right on target.
keep it up.

Alan D.MaleThailand2009-07-30 13:11:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNOA2 Approval
QUOTE (mfalv @ Jul 31 2009, 05:53 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Here are my questions:

Is it true that the documents necessary to meet the NOA2 vary from one couple to another?
Will it also matter in which state in America one’s fiancé lives?
Is it any helpful that my fiancé lives in California? Does CA welcome new immigrants at this period?
My fiancé had typed “Californa” instead of “California” on the I-129F form that he sent. Would that affect the process?
Does the USCIS already check tax matters before releasing the NOA2 or tax-related stuff arise during the NOA2 compliance?


1. Yes. There are the basic required documents for everybody (forms, letters of intent, photos, etc), and then there are the documents unique to your case.
In my case that included a divorce certificate, multiple name changes, and some documents for a dependent child.
Then, EVERY foreign document had to be translated, and EACH ONE had an affidavit that the translator was competent.

2. No.

3. a) makes no difference
b)That's more of a question about the current attitude of the populace, and not government process. The former is irrelevant.

4. probably not

5. I have no idea. Somebody else will have to give you an answer.

Is there a problem with your back taxes that you should straighten out before they look?



Alan D.MaleThailand2009-08-01 11:08:00