ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
CanadaHealth officials applaud end to 22-year U.S. policy for travelers, immigrants
QUOTE (Betsy El Sum @ Jul 17 2009, 09:59 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I am sorry I think people with HIV should be excluded.


Well speaking soley about family based immigrants, if you are moving here to be with your husband or wife, you (hopefully)! only having intimate relations with 1 person. So if you are very careful and your spouse is supportive, I don't see why there would be a fear of them spreading HIV. They are moving to the US to be with their spouse not sleep around
JillAFemaleCanada2009-07-17 09:04:00
CanadaHealth officials applaud end to 22-year U.S. policy for travelers, immigrants
http://www.msnbc.msn...ns/health-aids/

Foreigners who have HIV would be allowed to travel and immigrate to the United States under a plan by federal health officials to lift a 22-year ban on infected visitors that critics say was unnecessary from the start.

Officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are seeking public comment through Aug. 17 on the proposal, which would remove HIV from the list of diseases that can bar entry to the country and do away with HIV testing as part of medical exams for permanent residence and, in some cases, travel visas.

“We’re trying to end the stigma and the discriminatory practice for a disease that doesn’t warrant exclusion for coming into this country,” said Dr. Martin Cetron, director of the CDC’s Division of Global Migration and Quarantine. “We have to appreciate this is not a threat we face from abroad.”

Infectious disease experts and AIDS advocates already are cheering the plan to remove the HIV ban, which was enacted at a time when people — and politicians — wrongly feared that the disease could be spread through casual contact, said Dr. Michael Saag, incoming chairman of the HIV Medicine Association.

“There is no scientific or public health rationale for excluding people with HIV infection from the U.S.,” said Saag, who also heads the division of infectious diseases at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. “Frankly, it was a bit of an embarrassment, even then.”

But immigration critics say they’re leery of the proposal that could allow an average of 4,275 HIV-infected people into the country annually, with a lifetime medical cost of about $94 million for those admitted during the first year, according to CDC estimates published this month in the Federal Register.

“It becomes a matter of collective responsibility because of the cost,” said Ira Mehlman, a spokesman for the Federation for American Immigration Reform, a nonprofit group based in Washington, D.C. “The American people shouldn’t be in a position where they have to pay for it.”

Others are concerned that HIV-positive visitors and immigrants will spread the disease.

About 1 million immigrants move to the U.S. each year, and about 6.6 million people visit using nonimmigrant visas, according to State Department statistics. The new rule would authorize entrance for those formerly barred solely because they have HIV, and it would eliminate the disease from the routine medical exams now required for immigration and for certain travelers.

OK the funniest part of the article is this guy's quote:

“It seems rather odd to let people in with a health problem like that,” said John Vinson, president of the American Immigration Control Foundation based in Monterey, Va. “With HIV and the way it’s spread, people have desires and they’ll act on those desires and spread it to other people. Why bring on a problem on yourself when you don’t have to?”

"People have desires and they'll act on those desires and spread it to other people" wacko.gif


JillAFemaleCanada2009-07-17 08:46:00
CanadaWhirlwind!
Wow! SO much done in so little time! Congrats on the smooth POE and marriage!

The AOS will come easy - you are together! You can work on it together, and it's honestly not that bad. Just read the guides carefully and take your time smile.gif
JillAFemaleCanada2009-07-17 16:44:00
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QUOTE (minnew @ Jul 10 2009, 12:48 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
So do you have to wait until you get the marriage certificate? or can you use the certified copy of the marriage licence from the courthouse? for AOS purposes?....and for other name changing services? I am confused.


It depends on each state.... some you don't get the cert on the spot, in PA I did. The officiant kept one part of it to send it to the state for registration, and we kept the signed official copy.... I ended up going to the courthouse in person to obtain a certified copy. For AOS purposes a marriage license is no good. That doesn't PROVE you actually got married, just that you applied. You have to send in the marriage certificate for AOS.
JillAFemaleCanada2009-07-10 11:51:00
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QUOTE (Gypsyangel @ Jul 10 2009, 10:25 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (poprocks @ Jul 9 2009, 10:48 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I'm happy to hear you guys had success!

I'll check my mail for my SSN when I get back. I got a certified copy of my marriage license yesterday, so I'm going to file my AOS when I get back from vaca smile.gif

I'm still using my Canadian credit card, but just changed my address to my US address with them.

I also got car insr with Geico until I register my car.

I have the two cards I got (macys and JCP) and my hubby has given me two of his credit cards..that works lol!

I'm gonna prep my AOS package and then run it by you guys before I send it in smile.gif



Is there a difference between a marriage licence and a marriage certificate? Maybe it depends on which state you're in. In NJ, I thought we got a licence so we could get married, but then the marrying officiant gave us a marriage certificate. It was the marriage certificate that we filed. We also had to wait for the marriage certificate to be sent to us which only took about a week, but others have had a harder time getting it quickly. I could be confused, but just thought I'd mention it Poprocks. Can anyone clarify?

Edit: Oops, i Just realized you got married earlier this week, so you probably have the correct document.


The marriage license is what you get at the courthouse after you show proof of eligibility & pay.... the marriage certificate is what comes when an officiant actually marries you, and files it with the state. When it has the date/signatures on it, it's a marriage cert. The license is just the document giving you permission to marry

JillAFemaleCanada2009-07-10 09:29:00
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Sapphire, when the time comes to get a CC - sign up for a Capital One MC! You don't need a job, I put down "homemaker" as my occupation HAHA and they still approved me! For a low $500 limit, but it's a good start! Now I am using it here and there, paying it off in full when due, and they have bumped my limit already to $1000
JillAFemaleCanada2009-07-10 09:24:00
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QUOTE (Hugglebuggles @ Jul 10 2009, 01:12 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I still have my Canadian credit card, but with no American account to link up with my Canadian one, I have no way of paying the bill if I use it... aside from trying to mail cheques to Canada, which can be messy and inconvenient. I didn't think of that when I drained all my Canadian cash out of it before moving... not like there was a lot of it! How can you use your husbands credit cards? Isn't that a big no-no? Around here, if you can't produce ID to show you are the owner of the card you're in deep trouble. Otherwise, I would definitely be using my fiances card!


When I first got here, I used Glen's debit and credit cards... At the grocery store I would go to self checkout, at the gas station you swipe it yourself.... I would use it sometimes at a regular store and no one ever glances at the card even. I know they should as what if it was stolen! But they never do, even now with my own cards I never get asked for ID, etc. If I had been asked, I was planning on saying it was my husband's
JillAFemaleCanada2009-07-10 08:35:00
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QUOTE (Hugglebuggles @ Jul 9 2009, 06:04 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I just thought i'd report on my SSN experience. I went today at the local office here in Littleton and everything went smoothly. She took my application and my passport, typed in the computer for a couple minutes, had me sign a form and said I will have my card in 2 weeks or less.

Maybe this means I was actually in the system?


That's exactly what happened to me! You should have it real soon
JillAFemaleCanada2009-07-09 17:05:00
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QUOTE (poprocks @ Jul 5 2009, 01:26 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thanks Katheryn. I gave nothing outstanding. My son has one last shot left in his HepB schedule, but he is not due to have it for another 4 months...it needs to be administered 5 months after the second shot he had a month ago. I guess they are satisfied as long as he is up to date on his shots?

I'll just include a copy of that sheet...hoping not to get an RFE...lol...


Yeah I did that, many do and don't get an RFE as long as everything is up to date! You should be OK!
JillAFemaleCanada2009-07-05 09:25:00
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QUOTE (poprocks @ May 31 2009, 07:28 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Well day 3 in the US is '2-0' US vs. ME LOL!

I went to Target, no success on getting a CC, today I went to TD Bank, couldn't get a bank account opened even riding on my fiancé as primary without an SSN sad.gif

Anyone know of banks who do it? My fiancé is with Wachovia (spelled it wrong I'm sure LOL).

Any thoughts, or should I wait to apply for SSN?

It's so frustrating starting over sad.gif

I'll try Macys tmrw.

All my money is in CA and I'm using my debit and CC's with the currency conversion.

I also don't know what I'm gonna do about my address change. I worry if we get called for an AOS interview and they see we moved without changing it, they'll get annoyed with us.

Thanks guys smile.gif


I don't know any banks that will allow you to open an account w/o an SSN #. Even with my passport, marriage cert, etc. I couldn't get any bank to open me an account. Even to be added to Glen's account, nope. So I waited until I got my SSN, and he just gave me cash for anytime I needed moolah, it sucked. I would apply for your SSN as soon as you return from FL, as you should be in the system by then.

I got rejected last week for a Target CC too.
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-31 18:33:00
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I think the only thing that is easier is waiting on the next step together rather than apart.... I mean the AOS phase.
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-29 16:33:00
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heehee! Sometimes I think we know more than some people doing their own jobs! I'm happy it's worked out, as the last thing you need in all of this wedding planning and immigration stuff is a dent in your plans. You're welcome, happy to help biggrin.gif
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-28 21:58:00
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Source: http://74.125.47.132...lient=firefox-a


So, it looks like it is all good biggrin.gif Just be armed with this evidence as well, perhaps printed off the website, when going to apply for your marriage license. You may be teaching the county clerks something, if they give you a hard time!
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-28 21:49:00
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QUOTE (July09Bride @ May 28 2009, 10:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JillA @ May 28 2009, 10:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Just found this info re: MCL 551.102

Under section 2(1) of the Marriage License Act, MCL 551.102(1), a county clerk may issue a marriage license to an applicant who fails to provide his or her social security number on the application if the person has never been issued a social security number and so states on the affidavit for license to marry or in a separate sworn statement made a part of the application.

Wouldn't this be reason enough for them granting you guys a marriage license? If you don't HAVE a SSN# and he states this fact, and the reason why he's yet to have obtained one

JILL!!!! You're my hero!!! I'm talking to Duncan right now on the phone and he says THANK YOU! smile.gif I'm thinking if we show his K1, I-94, and the SSN application that they'll see we're being honest about him not having a SSN before. good.gif


YAY! I found even more, it's apparently against the law for Michigan to deny marriage licenses to immigrants:


Www.FarmworkerLaw.org
A division of Legal Services of South Central Michigan

Over the last several years, Michigan’s families have had
to deal with increased scrutiny when members of their
families are immigrants to this country.
One blatant example of this trend has occurred when a few county
clerks in the state imposed requirements to apply for a
marriage license that were not based in law. Michigan’s
immigrant families should soon be free of this unlawful
trend – requiring marriage license applicants to have social
security numbers – due to a recent Michigan Attorney
General opinion that clarifies that the practice is not
allowable under the law.
Background
Beginning in 2006, priests in Kent County and Ottawa
County reported that the county clerks in those counties
were denying the right of couples to marry in cases in
which at least one of the parties did not have a social
security number (SSN). The justification for the denials
was based on the county clerks incorrectly interpreting a
state law to require both applicants for a marriage license
to possess and present SSN’s.
Neither county clerk
articulated a reasonable explanation for this policy change,
considering that the relevant state law had not changed
since 1998. Additionally, the clerks’ implementation of
the new requirement exhibited a lack of understanding of
federal immigration law.

If he or she does not have a SSN, then an affidavit
certifying the absence of a SSN is sufficient

An applicant for a marriage license should never put
false information on the application. If an applicant does
not have a social security number, he or she should state
“None” on the appropriate line on the Affidavit for
License to Marry, or other similar document used in the
county clerk’s office.
A county clerk should not
question the reasons for not having a SSN, and an
applicant should not have to provide a reason.

? If a couple is still not granted a marriage license due to
lack of a social security number, they should contact an
attorney.

Edited by JillA, 28 May 2009 - 09:50 PM.

JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-28 21:46:00
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Fill out this form and bring to the SSN office:

http://www.ssa.gov/online/ss-5.html

Find the closest office by entering your zip code:

https://secure.ssa.g.../FOLO/fo001.jsp

Scroll down to Section C on the link below - Policy.... it specifies K-1's.

https://secure.ssa.g.../lnx/0100203500

Bring this info with you in case you get a DUH clerk who claims K-1s aren't eligible for an SSN #
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-28 21:34:00
CanadaVISA: CHECK!!! :) NEXT STEPS....CANADIANS PLS SHARE/HELP :)
Just found this info re: MCL 551.102

Under section 2(1) of the Marriage License Act, MCL 551.102(1), a county clerk may issue a marriage license to an applicant who fails to provide his or her social security number on the application if the person has never been issued a social security number and so states on the affidavit for license to marry or in a separate sworn statement made a part of the application.

Wouldn't this be reason enough for them granting you guys a marriage license? If you don't HAVE a SSN# and he states this fact, and the reason why he's yet to have obtained one


JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-28 21:31:00
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QUOTE (July09Bride @ May 28 2009, 10:18 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JillA @ May 28 2009, 10:11 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (July09Bride @ May 28 2009, 10:07 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JillA @ May 28 2009, 10:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
AHHHHH damn.... That sucks!! What if a Canadian couple wanted to go to Detroit to get married, LOL but in all seriousness, it may be tight.... he should go ASAP to the SSN office and explain the importance of obtaining the # right away! Also you don't get it on the spot, it gets mailed to you which takes another week or so.... I hope he gets a normal clerk, some of them are really dumb when it comes to issuing immigrants SSN #'s.....

Okay, but if we wait the 2 weeks for when he comes into the country and he goes to apply, can they at least give him the NUMBER???!!! We can wait on the card! lol


The number is issued in Maryland where the SSN head office is, I believe... So I'm not sure it can be given on the spot. One can always ask!

Here is the worst case scenario I can see: You don't get the marriage license in time for the July wedding. No one really needs to know, but you two! That is your wedding day, document or not! Then when received, you quietly go and have it made official. I know that would suck, but that's WORST case!! Hopefully that won't happen!!

But, that affects his insurance (joining onto my account). Which we wanted to get before we went on the honeymoon... just to be one safe side for the things we want to do (parasailing, ziplines... 6 hour 1-way plane flight).

OMG... I think I'm going to go stir crazy with this!!! I thought I'd looked over everything!!! I knew I'd miss something somewhere. Damn, and the thing I goof up on has to be HUGE.


Oh bloody hell, insurance is important. Never thought of that. Well what I would do is don't wait 2 weeks for him to go to SSN office. Go like 5 days later, and be armed with the evidence so he's not given a hard time. Will post in a minute the evidence I'm referring to
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-28 21:24:00
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QUOTE (July09Bride @ May 28 2009, 10:07 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JillA @ May 28 2009, 10:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
AHHHHH damn.... That sucks!! What if a Canadian couple wanted to go to Detroit to get married, LOL but in all seriousness, it may be tight.... he should go ASAP to the SSN office and explain the importance of obtaining the # right away! Also you don't get it on the spot, it gets mailed to you which takes another week or so.... I hope he gets a normal clerk, some of them are really dumb when it comes to issuing immigrants SSN #'s.....

Okay, but if we wait the 2 weeks for when he comes into the country and he goes to apply, can they at least give him the NUMBER???!!! We can wait on the card! lol


The number is issued in Maryland where the SSN head office is, I believe... So I'm not sure it can be given on the spot. One can always ask!

Here is the worst case scenario I can see: You don't get the marriage license in time for the July wedding. No one really needs to know, but you two! That is your wedding day, document or not! Then when received, you quietly go and have it made official. I know that would suck, but that's WORST case!! Hopefully that won't happen!!
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-28 21:11:00
CanadaVISA: CHECK!!! :) NEXT STEPS....CANADIANS PLS SHARE/HELP :)
AHHHHH damn.... That sucks!! What if a Canadian couple wanted to go to Detroit to get married, LOL but in all seriousness, it may be tight.... he should go ASAP to the SSN office and explain the importance of obtaining the # right away! Also you don't get it on the spot, it gets mailed to you which takes another week or so.... I hope he gets a normal clerk, some of them are really dumb when it comes to issuing immigrants SSN #'s.....


Edited by JillA, 28 May 2009 - 09:05 PM.

JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-28 21:03:00
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QUOTE (July09Bride @ May 28 2009, 09:47 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Okay, I've been doing some investigating about our application for our Marriage License. I JUST noticed that he needs to have a SSN for the application. OMG! Okay, so, he's supposed to wait about 2 weeks before he goes in to apply for the SSN. How long does it take to get the SSN?

Now, I'm freaking out. He's comeing over on 6/22 and there's only 26 days before the wedding. BUT, the county office where we have to apply takes forever to get the license back for the ceremony.
Apply / Pick up
Monday / Thursday
Tuesday / Friday
Wednesday / Monday
Thursday / Monday
Friday / Monday
Saturday* / Tuesday
Sunday* / Wednesday
*Online orders only.

Thanks for your help! smile.gif


Hi July,

Are you certain he HAS to have one? As I was also asked for my SSN but I explained I don't have one, and they just skipped over that question.
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-28 20:49:00
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I think my Dad's accountant totally screwed up my taxes. I had a feeling he didn't know what he was doing. That form was never sent in, instead he filled out this non resident of Canada form, but that was probably supposed to be sent next year because Canada didn't know I left. I dunno, I sent my tax package in March to Ottawa and haven't heard anything back yet.
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-26 08:45:00
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QUOTE (seekersharer @ May 23 2009, 07:46 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi all of those in moving mode, AOS/AP/EAD, and all other related issues prep.

I haven't got my K1 visa yet, but here is my own crazy timeline.

Montreal Interview - June 2
Expected delivery of Visa - June 9
Flight/Move to US booked - June 11 (should I be nervous?)
Wedding - June 13.

I might actually be getting married before some of you. Yikes, it's coming quick.

So I have the entire binder of stuff ready for Montreal interview and am now working AOS stuff.

As I am working through all the information, here are some questions I have that I hope you might be able to help me with.

1. On the I-765, question 16 asks about eligibility categories. The example form in VJ suggests ©(9) but as I read the instruction guidebook from UCSIS it seems to fit more with the (a)(6) category. K-1 Non-Immigrant Fiance of US Citizen. I've read both categories a number of times and can;t figure it out.

What are you putting? I'm confused.

2. If I don't have a SSN before I send AOS, do I just put "n/a" or "none" on the forms?

3. Place of entry? If I clear customs in Canada at Toronto airport, is that what i put? Or is the city the plane is flying to?

4. Finally, upon entry into the US, what are you doing about medical insurance. I can;t get on my wife's plan till July 1st. I searched for some options and found some plans for those involved in immigration. They are month to month plans. What are you doing in the interim?

Those of you who have said that this process is consuming and stressful, I couldn't agree more. I'm finding myself very weary about it all. but the good thing is what it all means... for that i am grateful.

Any advice on the above items would be appreciated.

Sincerely
Tom


Hi Tom,

Wow a busy couple of weeks for you!

1. Now I don't have the instructions in front of me, I'm looking at my form and I put C-9. I remember being confused about this as well, and I ended up putting C-9. I would stick with that.

2. Yes, I put NONE as I had applied but not yet received at the time of filing AOS. None is safe, because, well you have none yet!

3. I put Buffalo, NY as I crossed by vehicle. To be honest, if you're flying through Pearson and it does ask for your place of last entry into the US, perhaps it is supposed to be the city you're landing in? But I can't say for sure.

4. I see you will only be without insurance for about 2 weeks, I was without insurance for about 10 days. I just took the risk, if it had been much longer I wouldn't have, but it was short. I'm not sure about the insurance you can get for such a short term, but if you do a search on here you'll find lots of info.
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-23 18:53:00
CanadaVISA: CHECK!!! :) NEXT STEPS....CANADIANS PLS SHARE/HELP :)
I was paranoid before moving too.... Like any little silly thing would worry me and I'd freak out.... the moment I drove away from the POE, it was literally like a weight lifted off my shoulders and I breathed a sigh of relief....

Don't worry, even if your ex did that, you have the Visas so it'd be too late laughing.gif Not much he can do now.
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-22 19:21:00
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^^Awwww I'm so happy for you! I really, really hope you get the house, it sounds perfect. Like my Mom says, "everything always works out!!" And it really does! It feels SO good to be with your love, every day. It makes all these sacrifices we make totally worth it. Enjoy your last Canadian weekend for awhile!!

How does your son feel about moving, or is he too young to 'get' it?
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-22 17:42:00
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QUOTE (FormelyCA @ May 22 2009, 04:26 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Arrg! No fair!! I wanna be lucky toooooo!!! tongue.gif

Well no interview is lucky for me. I am a bag of nerves around people who have the authority to tell me to get the heck out of their country tongue.gif

Yah, no notice or anything. Just says California Service Center on the envelope. I read everywhere that everyone got an actual NOTICE it was transferred, so that was my confusion smile.gif

Yay for California!! smile.gif


Well, I hope you get lucky as well laughing.gif I was so happy to not have an interview, as we didn't really have any wedding photos so I thought that could be seen as an issue. Our wedding is next year, happy I didn't need to explain myself to USCIS. I kinda see the legal part as the marriage, and the party with friends and family celebrating as the wedding!

Edited by JillA, 22 May 2009 - 03:30 PM.

JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-22 15:29:00
CanadaVISA: CHECK!!! :) NEXT STEPS....CANADIANS PLS SHARE/HELP :)
QUOTE (FormelyCA @ May 22 2009, 04:01 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Yay! I received NOA1 today! yahoo!! They come all together (EAD, AP, AoS). Next, my biometrics appt letter comes in a week or 2.

Question- and yes, I know this sounds stupid biggrin.gif The return address says California Service Center. So, naturally, and obviously that means it's being processed there correct?? And this is good because as JillA has marvelously shown, they get processed super quick there, correct?


Awesome!! And you didn't get a transfer notice saying you were transferred to CSC? Because all of my NOA's came from Missouri, I believe... then a notice saying I was transferred to CSC. Well, either way, it looks like your case is in CA which is excellent news! Likely means no interview! Doesn't necessarily mean it's super quick at CSC, just means no interview (probably). I just got lucky wink.gif
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-22 15:14:00
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QUOTE (July09Bride @ May 22 2009, 01:55 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Wedding Dates and AoS... for Canadians on K1s!!!

July (?), 2009 - PopRocks
July 17, 2009 - July09Bride
August 6, 2009 - HuggleBuggles

Okay, just so I get this right... if PopRocks gets married sometime in July we'll be going through this craziness of AoS at the same time - again. AND/OR... if we wait until after we get back from the honeymoon to do the AoS, we could be going through AoS with Huggles... I LOVE having company going thrpugh the same stages of immigration on VJ!!!!

BTW... where in the heck have I been?? I JUST (about 5 minutes ago) noticed that PopRocks will be getting married in July instead of June! I really need to check in here more often! headbonk.gif


laughing.gif here's the condensed version: Their house won't be ready when she moves, therefore her son and Mom are going to Disney and the beaches for a few weeks of sun and fun! So the wedding is being pushed back a little bit.
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-22 13:06:00
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QUOTE (poprocks @ May 20 2009, 12:59 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
POE question:

My mom will cross with me. Our plan is for her to stay for a month to help with the move and be there for wedding, watch my son during honeymoon etc...

Will they give us problems? I will not have AP, so my plan at month end is to drive to Buffalo, have my ex drive over, spend the weekend with my son in Buf, then he will take my mom back.

My mom has no ties she can show? She is retired, lives with her long time boyfriend and the lease us in his name. The only thing she has is a passport, pension she gets and a Canadian bank account? Her life us simple.

I wonder if they are understanding due to fact that it is a wedding etc... Plus my fiancé will be there to give them the look of 'my MIL live with us? Over my dead body!' haha!

Maybe an affidavit from my ex saying he is meeting us and picking her up in 4 weeks?


I don't think you'll have any problems Poprocks travelling with your Mom.... Alot of people move with their parents help and that's OK. Perhaps you can show your Disney itenerary as proof she is going with you? And of course, she is there for your wedding! I doubt they will be suspicious of your mother's intent, but if you feel more comfortable get your ex to write the letter stating he is driving her back! With a phone # too
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-21 08:32:00
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QUOTE (RYCK @ May 19 2009, 10:02 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JillA @ May 18 2009, 08:42 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Hugglebuggles @ May 18 2009, 08:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JillA @ May 18 2009, 05:32 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Hugglebuggles @ May 18 2009, 08:29 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hummm... Ok, why would you need to register with the post office?


Oh you have to! I learned the hard way, I didn't know ahead of time and all my mail got turned back for about a month mad.gif It sucked so bad! In the US, it's not as easy as it is in Canada when you just tell your friends and family your new addy. Nope, if you don't register at the PO you're not, well, registered living there and won't get your mail.


What? Seriously? Argh that's frustrating! But... I've been getting mail at my fiance's house for months now. Not mail I want, but mail from wedding vendors and stores like bath and body works... Strange.


It is strange. Some things may get through, but it's best to register. Laura & Nick unfortunately did not know to do this also, and her SSN card got sent back which she didn't know about for months. Save yourself frustration by registering, so important documents like a SSN card, USCIS mail doesn't get turned back. It's too important!



I don't know how true that is for everyone !!!! I didn't do anything and i get all my mail .. i actually ran in the mailman here and he asked me if the mail was right with 3 different names coming to the same address .. i also asked him about registering names with the post office and he kinda looked at me strange and asked why i would need to do that!!! I may call the post office later to see if that is really needed here but so far no problems ...


Yes, it surely may depend on your mail carrier and how strict they are. I just know that I have read on here, many times that people got USCIS mail sent back, along with other mail, because they never registered at the PO. Laura & Nick was very upset because her SSN card got sent back, the PO said it was because she didn't register. Happened to me too, and yes I did get a few things come through. But most got sent back, the PO told me it was because I didn't register. And of course, I still get junk mail for the previous people that lived here, go figure!
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-19 09:20:00
CanadaVISA: CHECK!!! :) NEXT STEPS....CANADIANS PLS SHARE/HELP :)
QUOTE (SapphireDreams @ May 18 2009, 08:56 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JillA @ May 18 2009, 08:23 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Just thought of something else, re: post office. While you don't need an SSN to register, you do need some sort of proof you live there. For example, I showed my lease. So if you're not listed on the mortgage, I'm not sure what proof you will have.... a cell phone bill, or utility bill maybe?


I have no idea what I can use. I'll be living at his parent's house and we won't have a lease! Hmm... maybe the bank will add me to the account without a SSN and I can show a statement...


Yes a bank statement, or are you going to get a cell phone? That would be evidence too...

Maybe even a signed letter from his parents to state you're living there? That might work too....
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-18 20:02:00
CanadaVISA: CHECK!!! :) NEXT STEPS....CANADIANS PLS SHARE/HELP :)
QUOTE (Hugglebuggles @ May 18 2009, 08:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JillA @ May 18 2009, 05:32 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Hugglebuggles @ May 18 2009, 08:29 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hummm... Ok, why would you need to register with the post office?


Oh you have to! I learned the hard way, I didn't know ahead of time and all my mail got turned back for about a month mad.gif It sucked so bad! In the US, it's not as easy as it is in Canada when you just tell your friends and family your new addy. Nope, if you don't register at the PO you're not, well, registered living there and won't get your mail.


What? Seriously? Argh that's frustrating! But... I've been getting mail at my fiance's house for months now. Not mail I want, but mail from wedding vendors and stores like bath and body works... Strange.


It is strange. Some things may get through, but it's best to register. Laura & Nick unfortunately did not know to do this also, and her SSN card got sent back which she didn't know about for months. Save yourself frustration by registering, so important documents like a SSN card, USCIS mail doesn't get turned back. It's too important!

JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-18 19:42:00
CanadaVISA: CHECK!!! :) NEXT STEPS....CANADIANS PLS SHARE/HELP :)
QUOTE (Hugglebuggles @ May 18 2009, 08:29 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hummm... Ok, why would you need to register with the post office?


Oh you have to! I learned the hard way, I didn't know ahead of time and all my mail got turned back for about a month mad.gif It sucked so bad! In the US, it's not as easy as it is in Canada when you just tell your friends and family your new addy. Nope, if you don't register at the PO you're not, well, registered living there and won't get your mail.
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-18 19:32:00
CanadaVISA: CHECK!!! :) NEXT STEPS....CANADIANS PLS SHARE/HELP :)
Just thought of something else, re: post office. While you don't need an SSN to register, you do need some sort of proof you live there. For example, I showed my lease. So if you're not listed on the mortgage, I'm not sure what proof you will have.... a cell phone bill, or utility bill maybe?
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-18 19:23:00
CanadaVISA: CHECK!!! :) NEXT STEPS....CANADIANS PLS SHARE/HELP :)
DUH I posted this checklist in the wrong thread, LOL

Assembling the I-485 Package: Checklist

Forms and Documents (follow these assembly instructions. All supporting documents must be in English or be translated as noted here.):
1. Payment(s) as required by USCIS. Be sure to include the payment for both the I-485 and the biometrics fee*. Use a money order so you can track the payment. If a personal check is allowed, use that instead.
>> The fee for I-485 applications filed on or after July 30th 2007 inlcudes the cost of the I-131 and I-765 (no need to pay for them if filed with or while your I-485 application is pending adjudication -- as long as you paid the "new" rate for the I-485 effective July 30th 2007).
2. Cover Letter. Should include a description of what your are petitioning for (I-485), a table of contents (list everything in the packet). If you need additional room to explain your case, attach a separate sheet (list the attachment on the cover sheet). Make sure to sign and date the cover sheet.
3. Form I-485: Petition for Alien Relative
4. Copy of the non US Citizen Spouses Passport (biographical page as well as entry stamps).
4a. Copy of the non US Citizen Spouses K-1 or K-3 Visa from Passport
5. K-1 Visa Holders: Submit Copy of NOA2 "Approval" for I-129F **
K-3 Visa Holders: Submit Copy of NOA2 "Approval" for I-130
6. Copy of the non US Citizen Spouses valid I-94 (front and back copies)
7. A copy of the intending immigrant's birth certificate along with English translation. (If in any language other than English)
8. A certified copy of your marriage certificate. (If filing for your spouse)
9. Two passport-type photos (see specification) of the Non US Citizen Spouse. Write the full name on the back. Place in a plastic bag and label the bag "Photo of <Insert Name>". Attach the bag to a sheet of paper and place behind the corresponding G-325a.
10. G-325A (all four pages) filled out,signed and dated
11. I-693, Medical Examination of Aliens Seeking Adjustment of Status. (If you already have this from your overseas Visa Interview submit a copy that medical check form; No fee is required in this case. If you are a K-1 fiancé(e) or K-2 dependent who had a medical examination within the past year as required for the nonimmigrant fiancé(e) visa, you only need to submit a vaccination supplement (I-693A), not the entire medical report. You may include the vaccination supplement with your adjustment of status application.)
12. I-864, Affidavit of Support (see poverty limits here)
>> Include any additional required supporting documentation
13. I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, if you want to work while your application is processed (optional)
>> Include any additional required supporting documentation or photos as well as payment as noted here.
14 I-131, Application for Travel Document, if you need to travel outside the United States while your application is processed (optional)
>> Include any additional required supporting documentation or photos as well as payment as noted here.
* Fingerprint fee not needed for applicants under 14
** Should this document be misplaced/lost/never received you can file an I-824 to receive a duplicate copy via mail.



Add an overall cover page:
It is useful to add an overall cover sheet with the description of the package and pertinent information such as the applicants name and address. Make sure the cover sheet indicates the package is an Immediate Relative (Spouse) Family Based Adjustment of Status Application. List the major contents of the package (i.e. I-485 and evidence, I-765, I-131,etc).

Where to File Everything:
Applicants are required to mail applications to a national mailbox (Chicago) as stated on the form (not your local USCIS office).

Be sure to mail the package with return receipt requested / delivery confirmation. Send via USPS.
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-18 19:12:00
CanadaVISA: CHECK!!! :) NEXT STEPS....CANADIANS PLS SHARE/HELP :)
To find the closest SSN office to you, go to this website and put in your zip code:

https://secure.ssa.g.../FOLO/fo001.jsp

I would just go to the closest office!

Yes you can register at the PO without SSN. Also the forms for AOS ask for SSN, just put N/A.

If no W2's, IRS transcripts are required. The past year is sufficient, if he makes well over the poverty line. If it cuts close, submit the past 3 years....

Fee, photos, certified marriage cert, all the forms, vaccination worksheet, IRS transcript(s), photocopy of the I-94 front & back and K-1.... Hmmm let me go look for the checklist


Edited by JillA, 18 May 2009 - 07:01 PM.

JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-18 18:59:00
CanadaVISA: CHECK!!! :) NEXT STEPS....CANADIANS PLS SHARE/HELP :)
QUOTE (July09Bride @ May 16 2009, 03:16 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Okay... need verification here - help!

I'm in London with my fiance, right now. This is the last time I'll be here until the day he moves to the US and I come over here to help him move. We're trying to get everything sorted accordingly and need some assistance/clarification.

1- If he & I are in his car, my mom is in my car, and my dad is in my dad's car, and all three vehicles are driving my fiance's stuff over the border... my fiance' and I will be in the "lead" car with the other two behind us.
THEN...
A- Both of my parents need a letter from my fiance' stating that the belongings in the vehicle are his personal items and then we all go to secondary for processing.
OR
B- My parents just verbally tell the CBP guy that the stuff is my fiance's (after we tell the guy the stuff my fiance's after talkin to the CBP guy first) and then we all go to secondary for processing.

Which of those two choices do we need?

Also, I know he needs an inventory list (basic list of # of boxes with clothes, # of boxes with books, etc.). In addition, he'll have his "DO NOT OPEN" package. smile.gif

Thanks for your help on this!


I'd say "B" July, because your fiancee is accompanying his goods and can vouch they are his. If they were going on their own, I'd suppose they'd need a letter & copy of his K-1, but in this case you will be in the lead car. Explain to the officer the 2 cars directly behind you are family that are helping him move down, and the goods in the cars are his. No need for a letter, because he's there so they can ask him directly.
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-16 14:19:00
CanadaVISA: CHECK!!! :) NEXT STEPS....CANADIANS PLS SHARE/HELP :)
QUOTE (Hugglebuggles @ May 8 2009, 03:42 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JillA @ May 8 2009, 07:37 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (carrieandadrian11 @ May 8 2009, 06:54 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
^ Really?? OOps my bad sad.gif I mean I DID dress nice, so I guess I get it!

I am bumping this thread smile.gif But I also have a question. On the AP document, how specific should you be about the dates/reasons for travel? Is a generic, "Visiting family" too simple?? Does anyone get denied for these??


Nope, that's just fine! I put a few dates in there, like "2 weeks in March to visit family" but you don't have to be specific.


Did you just guess? Honestly, how many people know exactly when they will be able to come back home? I was just going to make up some dates I wanted to visit and roll with it.


I totally made them up, it doesn't matter! You don't even have to put dates, but you can always pick a few dates 2-3 months after you send in your AOS package. It won't affect getting AP, what dates you put or if you put any. It's not as if USCIS is going to be checking on you to make sure you travelled during the dates you put tongue.gif

Edited by JillA, 08 May 2009 - 02:57 PM.

JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-08 14:54:00
CanadaVISA: CHECK!!! :) NEXT STEPS....CANADIANS PLS SHARE/HELP :)
QUOTE (carrieandadrian11 @ May 8 2009, 06:54 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
^ Really?? OOps my bad sad.gif I mean I DID dress nice, so I guess I get it!

I am bumping this thread smile.gif But I also have a question. On the AP document, how specific should you be about the dates/reasons for travel? Is a generic, "Visiting family" too simple?? Does anyone get denied for these??


Nope, that's just fine! I put a few dates in there, like "2 weeks in March to visit family" but you don't have to be specific.
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-08 09:37:00
CanadaVISA: CHECK!!! :) NEXT STEPS....CANADIANS PLS SHARE/HELP :)
July, even if Duncan doesn't want/need AP, apply for it with the AOS package. The application I believe is 1 page, simple. You're paying for it, so apply. He may not plan on using it, but what if his GC takes a long time to arrive, like a year? He won't want to go home the whole year? Also, what if there was a family emergency? Imagine not being able to go home in case of an unfortunate event. Emergency AP can take days and why have to do that if you can get it for piece of mind. That's just my 2 cents LOL
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-03 12:08:00
CanadaVISA: CHECK!!! :) NEXT STEPS....CANADIANS PLS SHARE/HELP :)
QUOTE (Hugglebuggles @ May 2 2009, 11:29 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I'm almost certain that the AP and the EAD are just temp until you receive your GC. The GC itself gives you the right to travel outside the country and work... the other documents just allow you to do those things before your legal permanent residency is established. I've been reading yes.gif

But AP and NVC... I think that's what they call getting stuck at the NVC stage of the k-1 process for additional security checks and stuff. Glad that never happened to me!

Edit: Jill beat me... and her response makes more sense tongue.gif


You got it girl, you explained it well too! I honestly don't know a thing about NVC.....
JillAFemaleCanada2009-05-02 22:30:00