ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHelp! What's the best Option?
K1: Fastest to be together. Most expensive. You still have to wait for MORE paperwork to be able to work. Have to marry in the US (but could do ceremony in Canada later). Can start the (shorter) process now.

CR-1: Least expensive. Slow(er) but not too bad. You can work or travel back to Canada (or elsewhere) right after you arrive. Can get married anywhere you like. You can't start the (longer) process until after you get married, so extra long time apart.

Figure out what your priorities are. If you don't have very much money (or don't want to spend it with the government) then CR-1 is good for you - it's cheapest, and you could work in Canada until you leave, and then come here and start working right away. If the very most important thing to you is being together as soon as possible, then do the K1.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-09-17 14:57:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHi - Just getting started
Just some general advice:

While it is good to look ahead, it sounds to me like you've sort of jumped in the deep end. Slow down and follow the guides - there's a checklist in there which you can follow and it's very complete, so relax!

If you try to tackle this process in it's entirety, you'll be overwhelmed. Break down the assembly of the packet into getting each of the things on the checklist into a folder, and before you know it your packet will be assembled and you can send it off! One step at a time, and you'll get there. smile.gif Once you've sent off the packet, then start looking towards the next step.

Don't worry too much, London is a low-fraud consulate and generally easy to work with, so no need to be sending reams of paper in.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-10-06 14:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK1 interview this week - Question about filing date vs. engagement date
Adam,

London is pretty easy going on the relationship proof side (low fraud), so don't get too worked up.

They DO typically ask how and when you got engaged, but it is a fairly conversational interview. Just explain as you did here, and I'm sure it will be fine.

Good luck!

QUOTE (AdamF @ Sep 8 2009, 09:24 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
We came to a mutual decision to file the I-129F without a formal proposal happening.

After the I-129F had been filed, I made a "proper" job of proposing the next time we met face to face.


Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-09-09 16:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWish to sponser fiancee
I don't think that anyone has mentioned...

You can use assets to supplement your income shortfall. It's not an all or nothing thing.

You said you're getting unemployment. That counts.
You said you've got some contract work. That counts too.

Now all you need to do is take the difference between what you need to have in income - what (although little) you make, and then only make up 3x that number.

Anyway, I thought I would mention, as you seem to be thinking this is a high, unattainable goal.

Page 9, point 29.
http://www.uscis.gov.../form/I-864.pdf

Edit: Learned something. smile.gif

Edited by Nik+Heather, 25 June 2009 - 06:16 PM.

Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-06-25 18:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures90 days for NVC??
It took NVC 2 weeks to get our file - That's the problem with batch processing - they hold petitions until there's enough to send, then they send them - then they get put in, and then you probably have to wait for the batch upload to the database or whatever. Lots of possible hangups and delays, and if they all come around at once, it can be a while.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-10-20 14:39:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresneed help to this...
Also be sure to apply early - While London is usually an easy going consulate, they regularly put non-UK born beneficiaries through AP.

Take advantage of those 6 months to use the visa after issuance. You may find you need every one of them to get through AP.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-10-20 14:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhat papers do I send first?
QUOTE (hmm6604 @ Oct 20 2009, 11:41 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello,

I have read through the forums and have actually asked this same question before, but I dont think it actually posted. Anywho, I am quite confused about which forms should be sent first with the I-129F. I know people that sent financial information in the very beginning with their petition, but I have read this isnt necessary. What exact paperwork and items should go out in the very first mailing with the I-129F petition, and what should be left for later in the interview and consular stage?

Also, what exactly is a long form birth certificate? What distinguishes this from a short form cert?

thanks very much!!


For a lot of people the differences between long form and short form is that the long form includes information on the parents as well as the person whose certificate it is.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-10-20 14:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWho is a good agency to handle the visa (attorney?)
Hi!

Most of us on here end up successfully doing it ourselves. Most of the work for applying for the visa is digging out your papers or recollecting/finding info about where you worked or lived for years back. Whether you do it yourself or have a lawyer, you make all of this effort. The rest is filling all that info into the forms. Visa Journey has a great checklist to help you make sure you have everything you need, example forms, and forums to answer any questions you might have about nuances. Believe it or not, this process is supposedly designed so that a lay person could do it. (HA!) Furthermore, as you have such a vested interest in the outcome, you are MUCH less likely to make a simple mistake (such as spelling your name wrong) which could potentially derail your whole case. Before you decide once and for all to go for a lawyer, check out the K1 guide here: http://www.visajourn...mp;page=k1guide

There are only a very few situations where a lawyer might be good for you:
- Any immigration problems with the beneficiary (overstays, deportations, etc)
- Criminal record (not traffic tickets), especially violent crime for either one.
- You're too lazy or too busy or just plain illiterate and can't spend a few solid hours understanding the process.

Actually, even if you hire a lawyer, I would strongly recommend that you educate yourself about the process so you know what's going on (good input for a BS detector while you are researching someone to hire).
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-10-23 13:33:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresquick Quuestion
In addition to the same evidence you submit for your I134, your cosponsor needs to submit evidence that they are a US resident - same thing you submitted with the petition, birth cert, copies of passport, or for resident green card, etc.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-10-25 10:58:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhich VISA or options are best? (Thanks for the help)
Direct Consular Filing (DCF) will result in a CR-1 visa - this is an immigrant visa, and your wife (you must be married already to apply) will receive an I551 stamp in her passport at POE - this is effectually a green card, and then the physical one comes in the mail a little after that. With the CR-1 visa, since it results in a green card immediately upon arrival, she can work right away, and travel internationally as she likes without waiting for Advanced Parole (AP) approval.

DCF times are MUCH shorter in general than any other visa option. You apply, as the name implies, directly to the consulate, so the process varies from consulate to consulate. Check out the embassy's website for yours.


You may find that you have a problem establishing a "domicile" in the US, and you may need to precede your wife to the states in order to set up a household there. I am sure that the DCF forum and your regional forum will be helpful in your research to find what you need to do to prove that. You will run into this problem regardless of which visa you apply for, or which method.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-10-26 12:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresTwo different stories, one ruined wedding.
I dunno, if she's already been flagged as having immigrant intent, I don't think they will let her enter on a tourist visa (visa OR VWP) any longer. Also, it sounds like the wedding is planned for Ontario? Did I read that right? So the wedding itself isn't shot completely either. They can get married in Canada as planned, but the part of the plan which is ruined is her going back to the States right away with her new hubby.

I get that it can be really disappointing, Amber, to have planned all these things and then have such a big change, but this is recoverable. Just a little more time apart is all. We all understand how hard that can be. :-/

We can tell you more about the K1 visa if you like, but I see the CR-1 as being the most fitting for your situation right now anyway.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-10-25 21:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK1, CR-1, K3 and other random questions.
QUOTE (tri_gear @ Oct 27 2009, 05:34 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (canadian_wife @ Oct 27 2009, 08:20 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
tri_gear - estimate on 6-10 months. Montreal is horribly backed up so if you are interviewing there then it will be a while from NOA-2 to interview. Vancouver is quicker however. Where is the beneficiary from?

Good luck.



I am from Canada (beneficiary) he is from the USA..:-) So you can't cross the border until after your interview in Montreal to marry? That's when they issue the K-1 and where thereafter you have 90 days to marry once you cross into the USA?

Is that correct?

So then, how long would it take if I went over to the USA, got married..on a whim of course..:-) I guess I would have to stay in the USA? File the CR-1?? Then how long until I could work?

Or can a Canadian get married in the USA, travel back to Canada..continue with my job here..etc. Until I get my working visa and approval to live in the USA. How long would that process work? Just approx...thanks again!


Tri:
Your third option sounds like the most viable. The second sounds like visa fraud - I'm sorry, you can't plan on "whims" wink.gif biggrin.gif

If your top priority is to have the smallest possible gap in your work, then you really need to get married and apply for the CR-1. This visa results in a green card upon entry - you could even look for a job and have it lined up before you left your job in Canada. The CR-1 does take longer, but it is cheaper and, as just mentioned, no gap in work eligibility.

Yes, you could enter, get married and then file for the CR-1 and spend the rest of your 6 month I94 validity waiting out most of the processing...but since you intend to marry and move here, I wouldn't recommend that you take any other than a VISA path.

Edited by Nik+Heather, 27 October 2009 - 10:39 AM.

Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-10-27 10:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK1, CR-1, K3 and other random questions.
QUOTE (Bulldog15 @ Oct 26 2009, 02:24 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
What we need to accomplish:

1. Speed. (of course, right?)
2. She needs to have the ability to earn an income in the US.
3. She would like to be able to fly back and visit her family in Canada.
4. She does have a BA. (not sure if that helps anything at all?)


4. Is irrelevant.

Requirement 1 will lead you down a contrary path to 2 and 3.

The K1 accomplishes 1, and 2 and 3 will eventually follow (It's just a couple of months - barely time to settle in, really).

The CR-1 accomplishes 2 and 3 immediately, at the expense of 1.

Determine your needs vs. your wants, and make your decision from there. If she doesn't need to work right away, but you want to be together sooner, go K1. If you are in a financial situation that her being out of work for a few months is a problem, then you go CR-1 (it's cheaper too).

Also, if you want to marry in Canada, CR-1. K1's must marry in the States (but you could do a courthouse and then ceremony AFTER in Canada).
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-10-26 16:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresOkay, I feel silly...
London is a low fraud consulate (read: easy). Unless the beneficiary is not a UK born citizen, you shouldn't have much to worry about. Actually, there was just a discussion in the UK forum about attending the interview. Many K1s elected to save their money and vacation for the quickly approaching wedding! smile.gif Gary is totally correct that there is good value in attending for moral support - we can surely build ourselves up to be quite nervous even if it usually turns out nicely.

I think N. Ireland still interviews through London even though the Ireland consulate might be closer.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-10-27 10:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresApproved with no interview??
Hi!

Sounds to me like you are confused about the process. First the USC petitions for the foreign fiancee (you?) and then the petition is approved. After that it goes to NVC, then the consulate (where the interview is). You've still got a ways to go - and many months if what I read for your fellow Canadians is true.

Check this out: http://www.visajourn...amp;page=k1flow

Looks like you are on step 4. Lots more to go!
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-10-26 16:34:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresShould I stay in the country during the visa process?
For the first bit - don't forget about having a place to live...

Second, yes, she will have to live here - if she leaves for more than 6 months, then she's given up her residency since she isn't residing here. It's pretty expensive to get the green card - $1500 just in straight fees - not counting other "incidentals" like extra vaccinations or air fare etc. To just turn around and abandon the status seems counter productive.

If your plan is to stay for three years, then she can get her citizenship, and you two can come and go as you please for the rest of your lives regardless of time in or out of the States.

I do believe that you will run into major road blocks if you are not living in the US when she goes to apply for her visa.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-10-21 14:21:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresShould I stay in the country during the visa process?
Do you intend to live in the US? If not - why get her a visa where she needs to live there?

If you do intend to live in the US, a person domiciled in the US needs to sponsor her - Not sure how it works for K1s (as it's an unusual case) but many DCF (both living outside the US) have had issues proving that the petitioner does actually live in the US. It would probably make your case go more smoothly if you were to work towards setting up your life in the US. Just my opinion, of course, but if you throw this process curve balls, expect equally confusing and frustrating results.

You can use the consulate in Thailand or the consulate for the country where she is living - know that there's more than just an interview which goes on - medical exam, police certificate collecting, etc. Make sure you are familiar with the different processes for your options and choose accordingly - I'm sure it won't be a quick fly in for a couple of days and fly out sort of thing.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-10-21 11:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuick question - Travel while filing for K-1
QUOTE (arwilson80 @ Nov 2 2009, 10:36 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Typical... i find the info as soon as i make the post. smile.gif

http://www.visajourn...howtopic=226357
http://www.visajourn...mp;page=k1visit

Appears that i'll be just fine.


Yep. Hope you have a wonderful visit!!

Tip: Nik found that carrying his NOA1 was useful at the border for his trip to see me between NOA1 and NOA2.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-02 12:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiance's Documents
QUOTE (Bobby_K1 @ Nov 2 2009, 10:32 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I talked to 2 different immigration lawyers on the phone today and each of them told me that I needed to have some ID Documents from my Fiance when I plan to start the K1 process.

They told me I need to have the Fiance's Birth Certificate and all Pages of her Passport to submit with the I129F Petition.

I further explained my situation to the lawyer and said that my Fiance does not yet have a Passport and she is currently applying for a passport. One laywer then said we may receive an RFE (Request for Evidence) due to the fact that the Passport of the Fiance has not yet been created.

I have not seen any mention of such documents required from the fiance on this on the VJ website (I129 Checklist) or on the I129 Instruction sheet - so I just wanted to ask an open-ended question about the advice I received on the consultation from the lawyer !

Thanks !



The beneficiary does not need to provide these documents until later in the process (at the interview), you're correct. Only the petitioner (the USC) needs to show birth cert or passport pages to establish citizenship, as only citizens may petition for a K-1.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-02 12:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 or K-3 quicker?
QUOTE (ImWaiting @ Nov 2 2009, 01:41 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (SunDrop @ Nov 2 2009, 03:22 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE
Your option of tourist visa, DONT EVEN TRY to come to the country with B2 visa and get marry.. will be the worth decision you will make. Getting marry under a tourist visa, is penalized as an action of fraud. So, hold on with your K1 or K3.. It is a little longer but rewarding.


Disagreed. Fraud is only committed if you enter the country as a tourist, whether on a B2 or VWP, because you plan to get married and adjust your status. You are perfectly entitled to enter, get married, leave and go the K3/CR1 route.

Also agree with the PP on being able to file now for the K1 to get the process going, unless you are able to arrange for him to travel immediately and get married quickly. CR1 is the best route in terms of time, cost and speed to getting your GC when you factor everything in together.


Yes, it is true, is OK to come here with a B2/Tourist visa.. completely legal, get marry, have kids.. Unfortunately my friends, the department of immigration will not see this way, they will see your actions were fraudulent deceiving the state obtaining a tourist visa with intent to marry [since they know is the easy way].. You could be denied legalization when applying.. But, your choice,


The problem isn't getting married on a tourist visa - and then leaving to process a spouse visa. The problem is getting married and THEN trying to adjust status (if you entered with the intent to stay all along). There are two distinct events here, they aren't one in the same like you're treating them.

Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-02 15:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 or K-3 quicker?
QUOTE (ImWaiting @ Nov 2 2009, 11:12 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (NCP @ Nov 2 2009, 12:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi
I am new in all this process and hope you guys can clear some doubts for me. I am colombian and will be marrying a US citizen. We just want to be together as soon as possible, so we really dont care where the wedding takes place.
Would it be faster to apply for k-1 and then travel to the us and get married, or for him to come here, get married and apply for a k-3 after that?
I have a tourist visa, what would happen if I am there this December and we get married? Would I have to leave to get my status right?
And if I apply for k-1, can I still travel with this tourist visa to visit him?
Thanks for your help!


As previously posted by Nik+Heather, your options for K1-K3 [CR1] are your best options, I would recommend the K1 for faster process.
Your option of tourist visa, DONT EVEN TRY to come to the country with B2 visa and get marry.. will be the worth decision you will make. Getting marry under a tourist visa, is penalized as an action of fraud. So, hold on with your K1 or K3.. It is a little longer but rewarding.


It is completely OK to get married in the US on a tourist visa. It is NOT allowed for you to come into the US with the intent to stay. So, if you plan your wedding for this December trip, you also need to plan on leaving your new spouse and going back home.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-02 14:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 or K-3 quicker?
Hi NCP.

Limit your options to K-1 or CR-1. If your first concern is being together as soon as possible, AND you do not need to get a job as soon as you get here, but can wait for a few months, then K-1 is the way you should go.

If you and your fiance have already met in person, you can file for the K-1 right now. The processing time for the K-1 is faster than the CR-1, AND you don't have to wait until you get married.

If, on the other hand, your finances are such that you will need to work right away, you really need to go with a CR-1 visa. The K-1 also has much higher fees to get to a green card.



As to your second question about visiting, you should read the visiting FAQ. There is no law which says you may not visit, but you may find it difficult to get in the country, even with your tourist visa, with or without a family based visa in the works when you have an intent to move here. It is our experience that it was helpful for Nik to show the NOA1. Bring convincing proof of ties to your country for the best chances.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-02 12:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBorder...a reason for a deny?
You are legally allowed to stay until the expiration of your I94. If it was the intent of the admitting officer to restrict you to your planned itinerary, she would have only stamped you in for the two months you stated. Extend your trip as you like, but don't overstay your I94.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-05 09:47:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhat do I do?
QUOTE (Crissie @ Nov 3 2009, 10:14 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Nik+Heather @ Nov 3 2009, 12:01 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Did they not even cash your check? Did your whole packet come back to you?

If it's an outright denial and not an RFE as mentioned, I think the safest thing to do is to start over on all the forms and the letters of intent.

Things requiring original signatures are: I129f, G325a (all copies, both yours and your fiance's), and letters of intent. (oh, and your check, of course. wink.gif)

Your fiance can print out his side and mail it to you - should get here within a week. Also, try signing with blue ink - then you can tell the difference between original and photocopy (and so can they)

Don't worry about printing on different size paper, half our packet was A4 (or whatever) from what Nik sent to me.


They didn't cash the check. I assume that makes it an RFE, but it didn't say that on the letter. They just said to send the package back with the missing signature on the application or petition. It just seems really vague to me, as there are many signature throughout the package.



No, not cashing the check means you haven't even filed yet. You have to have a filing to get to an adjudicator who would send the RFE. It means that you didn't make it out of the mail room where they take out the check and do an initial scan for things like signatures. That means you don't have a case number or anything, so it's no good to try to send in just one form or another, because there's no case to match them up to.

That the letter tells you to send "the package" back tells me that you should send a complete application + supporting docs back to them. I am not an expert on this sort of thing, but I thought you got the whole thing mailed back to you (then you could be sure they didn't cash TWO big checks from you). That alone might be worth a call to figure things out, but in the mean time, I'd have your fiance get to work on sending you new originals signed in blue.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-03 12:25:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhat do I do?
Did they not even cash your check? Did your whole packet come back to you?

If it's an outright denial and not an RFE as mentioned, I think the safest thing to do is to start over on all the forms and the letters of intent.

Things requiring original signatures are: I129f, G325a (all copies, both yours and your fiance's), and letters of intent. (oh, and your check, of course. wink.gif)

Your fiance can print out his side and mail it to you - should get here within a week. Also, try signing with blue ink - then you can tell the difference between original and photocopy (and so can they)

Don't worry about printing on different size paper, half our packet was A4 (or whatever) from what Nik sent to me.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-03 12:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHELP!! INTERVIEW Appointment Proposal???
Hi Maria,

It's difficult to tell where you are in the process without your time line. Has the petition already been approved? You may like to go down to the regional forums to see if there are any German threads talking about the embassy/interview experiences down there. There are likely more knowledgeable people there who can help you get a strategy for delaying your appointment until after your trip. However, I doubt the likelihood of your getting an appointment during that time - the embassy staff probably goes on vacation then too just like you!
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-06 09:41:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK1 Visa, very confusing to me...
There have been many experiences of people visiting during the K1 process. Here is the FAQ. At the bottom, there are links to other threads where many many many people have shared their experiences visitng while their visas were processing.

http://www.visajourn...mp;page=k1visit

For us, we found that this list was very good. Even if you can't bring everything, we found that things like the employer letter saying when you're expected back and the NOA were both very helpful in making the case, even in secondary inspection. And, nothing is better than a return ticket.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-06 12:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPassport Validity
QUOTE (Jenn and Fuat @ Oct 27 2009, 10:04 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Nik+Heather @ Oct 27 2009, 12:47 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
You should do it now - It's a long way to go thru citizenship, so he'll need it for years yet. Easier to do it from inside his country than try to do it by mail from the US. Get the ball rolling, you want the new passport in time for the interview!



Oh we would do it before the interview, and would renew for at least 3 years, but that's about $500. Wondering if he would need to do it before we sent in packet #3.. since we would be sending that within the next month. We will still have a 3-4 month wait for the interview, so would have more time for him to get the money together to renew.

When we send packet # 3 it would only have 5 or 6 months left on it ( depending on how fast we get packet #3). When we go to the interview he would have a new one with 3 years validity.



Well, the only concern I would have then is that if there are any hang ups, you don't want any nail biting to be going on about if the new passport will arrive in time...so, I still think sooner the better. Judge what you think best, considering the processing times quoted for the service + any time in case there is any mistakes/typos on the new one that need to be corrected, lost in the mail, etc. Just personally, I'd rather have the new one in my hands ASAP.

If you can choose the validity, you may want more than 3 years, that timer for US citizenship starts when he gets his residency (as I understand) and the process can be quite lengthy.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-10-27 12:10:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPassport Validity
You should do it now - It's a long way to go thru citizenship, so he'll need it for years yet. Easier to do it from inside his country than try to do it by mail from the US. Get the ball rolling, you want the new passport in time for the interview!
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-10-27 11:47:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHelp...it's killing me
Is there some reason you aren't starting the K1 process *now*? You can wait out a large portion of the processing period now that you are here in the US.

Anyway, as we say here, "No use crying over spilled milk" That means, Don't spend time dwelling on and worrying about things you've done in the past that you can't change. Keep your chin up and move past it. Enjoy your time with your fiance, and stop letting this get in the way of that.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-06 09:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPaperwork for the interview
If you meet the poverty guidelines based on your INCOME alone, then you do not need to provide ANY bank details. I just left the bank balance lines blank and only filled in the income.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-09 17:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPre K-1 Filing
Does UAE accept cosponsors? If so, would someone you know agree to sponsor your fiance? They would have to be a US resident or citizen. Then you don't have to worry about the job thing - at least for the visa part - your own life is a different story. smile.gif


Also, K1 visas are for people who are mainly concerned about speed. The FASTEST way (and probably best) is to do Direct Consular Filing. You have to be married and legally living in the UAE for 6 months previously. Have you investigated that option? It results in a CR-1 visa, which is residency upon arrival. Much cheaper, much faster, and little to no time apart. Good luck!
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-09 09:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresIn retrospective just a tip for everyone starting their K1 process
QUOTE (boisestate @ Nov 11 2009, 11:14 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Everyone seems to agree we need a lot of evidence for the K1 application, but I seem to remember a thread from "Gary and Alla", relaying information from an official at the Vermont service center, who said that you really just need to prove you've met in person:

"What about extra documents? Proof of relationship? We don't need it, only that they have met for the fiancee visa."

I guess the rationale of providing extra stuff with the initial K1 application is that it makes the visa interview process easier because your entire file is forwarded to the embassy and is thus available to the office before the actual interview. Maybe I'm misguided here, but it seems like you need to prove two things:

1. You've met in person in the two years previous to K1 application (must provide with the I-129F)
2. You have an ongoing relationship (must provide at visa interview)

Is this on the right track?



It is highly country dependant. For London (like my experience) relationship evidence is (almost) never asked for. For Ecuador or other high fraud or difficult consulates, they make the decision before the interview, and there is no opportunity given to submit evidence at the interview, so sending with the petition to be sent with the rest of the file is recommended, so it is dangerous to just say across the board one way or the other. The consulate needs to be considered.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-11 13:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresIn retrospective just a tip for everyone starting their K1 process
QUOTE (David-J @ Nov 10 2009, 05:57 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
HI everyone.
I received my Green Card today. kicking.gif . Now that I have pretty much finished the process I just wanted to share a couple of things that may help you in your process.

- I know everyone says it but it needs to be repeated. Be honest in all your applications, don't lie or conceal any information. Makes things easier and faster.
- Be patient and don't rush your application. Make sure you have all the paperwork for it. I know you want to be with your significant other as soon as possible but triple check everything.
- One thing I noticed that it helped us a lot and I didn't see it posted here, was our K1 visa evidence. We submitted a lot of stuff. Lots of telephone calls and I mean a lot. Lots of emails, several photos, etc. Because of the amount of things we submitted when I had the interview at the consulate for the K1 they didn't ask me much. They just looked at all the phone calls and said WOW. Same thing with the interview for the Adjustment of Status. They just looked at all the phone calls and the officer said " you sure called each other a lot", 5 mins later we were out the there approved. I'm not saying you must do as I did, I'm just telling you how it affected us in a very positive way.

So in summary, make sure you prepare very well that K1 visa because it's going to affect the rest of the process. Hope it all works out for you as it did for us. Also remember to stay calm, if you prepare everything right and triple check it, everything will be alright.

Cheers and if you look at my timeline and my circumstances and you think I can help you out; send me a message and I will be more than gladly than try to help you.

Cheers and good luck everyone!


I whole heartedly agree - PREPARE, PREPARE, PREPARE! Understanding the entirety of the process (and the different options) before you start can be a huge help and keep you from being blind sided later.

Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-11 12:39:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhy did fees go so high this year?
Firstly, K1 is the most expensive way to go. The CR-1 visa is much cheaper (total cost may be closer to 60%), and will allow your then spouse to work immediately upon arrival, rather than having to wait for several months without earning.

I think the fees were increased in 2007, but I am not sure if anything got better, I didn't come into the immigration "scene" until 2009 - and most of the active posters are just like me - it's hard to compare.


If you still want to go the K1 route, the big hits can come far away from each other - $455 at the beginning, and then it could be more than a year later to pay AOS, which is $1010. These don't include moving costs, medical exam costs, visa costs, wedding costs, air fare, postage or other documentation acquisition fees.

CR-1 costs $355 for the I130 application and then about 5 to 6 months later 70 and 400 to NVC. The medical exam costs and postage and moving will stay the same, but it's a savings of $700 or so, I think.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-10 17:41:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhere fiance stays after POE, before wedding
QUOTE (boisestate @ Nov 11 2009, 11:28 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Nik/Heather: thanks for the info. That makes sense, it's probably a good idea to get that squared away as soon as possible. What proof do you have with the AOS filing that you're not 'out of status'? Do you carry around a copy of the AOS filing and the NOA1?


Well, I think I'll ask Nik to carry a copy of NOA1 with him - but then again, we are dealing with Sheriff Joe...Once you have filed, her status will be "pending" which is a legal status, and NOA1 is the proof of that. The whole filing might be a little too burdensome compared with one folded sheet of paper.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-11 13:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhere fiance stays after POE, before wedding
QUOTE (boisestate @ Nov 11 2009, 11:18 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thanks for the ideas. Some of those might just work.

Regarding the 90 day thing, we just have to be married in 90 days, not file for AOS, right? After the wedding we'll go on a honeymoon (1 week), wait for the certified marriage certificate (2 weeks?), and so may not file for AOS for a month. I thought we just had to be married within the 90 days, not necessarily file for AOS by that time.

There is an incentive obviously to get the AOS filed to get AP and EAD sooner, but is there a 90 day deadline?



It is strongly recommended that you have filed and received NOA1 for AOS before the 90 days ends. If the 90 days ends and you don't have that, she is out of status. LOTS of people will have no issue with this, but just a few might have a run in with someone (law enforcement) who will make things difficult for them. It's not something that you want to plan for if you can help it. Plus, that's 2 or 3 months not able to work before you file, and another 3 or so months after you file waiting for EAD.
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-11 13:25:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhere fiance stays after POE, before wedding
Nik came in a little over a week before the wedding. As his parents and other family followed shortly after (for the wedding), we all just stayed at my parents. I slept in my sister's room, and he and the best man stayed in the guest house at the next-door neighbors.

Maybe similar will work for you? If no nearby family etc, can she stay in a guest room in your place? You could make that a bit romantic - pick her up for "dates" Hehe..

Or, you say you want to do this for religious reasons - what about asking someone from your place of worship? Is there a women's club or something? They might make things special for her if she has no friends or relatives coming too...I know my mother has willingly (and warmly) hosted several near-strangers simply because of her church associations.

Edited because I liked Otto's suggestion: If she stays at your place, you'll be less of a burden on who you are stayng with - because you'll be leaving for work and such every day - less "entertainment" burden. Plus your acquaintances will know you better. (duh, Heather)

I would caution you about waiting two months for marriage - we are finding several road blocks for us to filing (like - 3 weeks to get a certified copy of the marriage license!!!), and we are glad for having most of the 90 day window available.

Edited by Nik+Heather, 11 November 2009 - 01:11 PM.

Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-11 13:08:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureshelp - questions about K1
For a Chinese national, I think you should go for the K1. As you say, since you need a visa any way, may as well get one which is a bit more sure-fire to get you into the country. The costs are about the same (except the medical) and since you've already paid the petition fee may as well take advantage of that.

Just so you know, people who are not UK born citizens DO have a more difficult time getting through the London Embassy. Be prepared to show more documentation and answer more questions than the average couple going through London. Also have your mind set to expect to be put into administrative processing. I think your USC Fiance should try to attend the interview with you.

Good Luck!
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-12 11:04:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresVisiting before the K1 process
QUOTE (Jamie and Skye @ Nov 12 2009, 05:50 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thanks guys for your advise, Nik + Heather, I didn't look at like that, and I hope they don't, I've been in Canada on a working holiday visa for 5months and I'm moving home because I miss my family, I have a great job offer back home and we thought getting the paperwork together would be easier back Home. I think the best thing is to say I'm spending time with my Fiancee before I go home.


Well, bring some documentation of that working visa for Canada - just in case. Usually you'd think there wouldn't be an issue (and generally isn't with VWP), but you don't want to look out of the ordinary without a good story and evidence to back it up. Also as the visitng FAQ recommends, bring evidence of that job offer such as the offer letter or a copy of it, at least.

Not trying to scare you, but better to be prepared. smile.gif
Nik+HeatherFemaleUnited Kingdom2009-11-12 20:27:00