ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 and Class A Misdemeanor charge.
QUOTE (yoyoma @ May 13 2009, 06:08 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I have a Class A Misdemeanor charge. And this was a assault charge in 1992 and the case was dismissed. I wonder if this will count against me, even I submitted all the recordrequired on I-129f form. I want to know if anyone like me or how they deal with it.

A dismissed charge will not count against you.

(I was arrested and charged with a misdermeanor in 2002. It was dismissed in court. It did not affect anything, except the arrest record may flag you for secondary security checks).

A lot of the advice given above is incorrect. There is nothing to do on the I-129F because you were not 'convicted'. They only care about convictions. You do not need to mention anything on the I-129F about this.

Edited by Ed+Cindy, 14 May 2009 - 01:49 PM.

Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-05-14 13:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK1 Visa options.... to stop process
QUOTE (Bobby_Umit @ May 15 2009, 07:24 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
"When there is a doubt, there is no doubt..."

Words I live by.


Perfectly stated good.gif
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-05-15 10:38:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK1 Visa options.... to stop process
QUOTE (SirJon @ May 13 2009, 02:22 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I would suggest that a counsellor could be good for the both of you. Why throw away two years without trying to find out why you argue more than talk?


If you aren't even married or living together, I would just move on. A counselor would be better suited if its a longer relationship that you wanted to salvage. It sounds like you should just move on, IMO. Things like fighting and contention only get worse once you start living together. If you can't sort it out easily enough now, it will be miserable once you are in the same house all the time.

Also, you will probably have to be the one to act, since in addition to marrying, your fiance is getting an 'upgrade' in her quality of life by moving to the US. Many people are willing to put up with unhappy relationships to move to a better place.


Edited by Ed+Cindy, 13 May 2009 - 11:10 AM.

Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-05-13 11:07:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresThis waiting time is killing me ! ! !
QUOTE (Maire @ Apr 9 2009, 03:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
lol I can totally relate..I got me a dog! Animals are a huge therapyyy


good.gif
Haha, my fiance is actually jealous of both the attention I give my cat and the fact that I have an animal around to talk to.
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-04-09 17:27:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurescan't find answer
QUOTE (DEDixon @ May 12 2009, 10:42 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Wow, how do you know for sure she isn't really 16.... really no way to tell so just consider her 16 and do what is needed to marry a 16 year old.


I agree here. No way to know.
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-05-13 16:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresVermount Service Centre at the Moment
QUOTE (T0dd&Chr1ssy @ May 14 2009, 09:47 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Does anyone actually know whats going on there at the moment? they seem to of really slowed down on K-1 visa's lately which is a pain in the for people who are already behind the estimated processing dates. I mean there hasn't been a group of visa's processed for quite a while and I'm wondering when things will start up again.

Any theories?

Todd & Chrissy



H1Bs my friend. They become available in April each year.
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-05-14 11:58:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresVisiting the USA while awaiting NOA2
QUOTE (jldut80 @ May 14 2009, 11:32 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi,

Is it possible to visit the USA on the VWP while awaiting the NOA2? I know this question gets asked alot however has anyone done it lately?

The proof to tie me to my home country includes a car loan, bank accounts, employment. Is this enough?

Look foward to your feedback!!


Employment and a car loan are good ties smile.gif
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-05-18 10:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNeed Advice/ Help Please
QUOTE (AvoidDaNoid @ May 18 2009, 08:45 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My fiance is flying to me with a K-1 on May 23rd. She is going from Manila - Nagoya - Detroit - Texas

She is very nervous and has never left the country before. I tried explaining what to do in the airport. Can anyone give a nice step by step instruction (what she needs, how to get through customs, what they ask)? Also how can she reach me by phone once she leaves Manila? Do the payphones in Nagoya allow you to enter money for international calls? What about the payphones in Detroit? Can she call me?

Many Thanks


Why don't you fly to Detroit and meet her there as she comes out of customs?
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-05-18 11:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG325A ??
QUOTE (laureldevine @ May 18 2009, 03:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
how strict are they on the petitioners side of this?
as a college student, I have had alot of waitressing as well as retail positions throughout the past few years.
Many times I held 2 jobs at once, and a few positions overlapped.
The problem is I for the life of me cannot remember exact months I worked for each place.
SO it is necessary to list EVERY single job, or just most of them?
and is it ok that it maybe be off a month or two here and there?


I would say do your best. I don't think they check up on it.
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-05-18 17:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFBI BACKGROUND CHECK
QUOTE (Grahm&Sarah @ Dec 24 2008, 04:30 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I just read that an FBI background check will show felonies but not always show if they were expunged. I had a felony years ago (I am the USC) not of violent or sexual nature, and it was also expunged shortly after. Is this a problem for me?

Also, does an FBI background check show credit history or credit score?

Thanks
Grahm&Sarah


FYI on expungments, which may or may not help.

I had an arrest in 2002 for a misdemeanor. It DID show up on an FBI check in 2004. In 2008, I filed an explungment, which was approved. Afterward, I did another query on my FBI file and the arrest WAS GONE.

Not sure if this will be the case with yours.

Expungments will always remove an event from local (county/state) files, but I wasn't sure if it will remove events from a federal file, so I was glad to see that it did remove it from my federal file.

Edited by Ed+Cindy, 19 May 2009 - 01:22 PM.

Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-05-19 13:21:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureschild following within a year
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Apr 3 2009, 03:02 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (acrow @ Apr 3 2009, 03:06 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My husband is here since November on K1 visa. He has filed for AOS and received advance parole. We were told his son could follow within a year, and we are going back down to Jamaica to get him...

What do I do? Where does his son get his own visa...I am getting conflicting info all over the place. The embassy made it sound like he could just come join no problem, but now I am hearing we need to file all these forms.

Has anyone here done this? What was the procedure?


We are doing the same with our older son. First, it is a separate visa and you will have to do all the same things you did for his visa. Call the call center and make an appointment for your son using the same NVC case number. Your son will need a medical exam, you can make an appoitnent for that at any time using the NVC case number. If he is over 16 he will need a police certificate. He will need the DS-156, or any other forms the consulate uses, passport photos and birth certificate. All translated if needed. You will pay the $131 visa fee. Your husband must attend the interview and show that he has complied with the terms of his visa. That means marriage certificate and, minimum, copy of NOA1 for filing the AOS, or his AOS acceptance letter and green card.

The interview should be relatively easy. When his son arrvies you will have to file for AOS just like for him. Another $1010 fee. You will have 90 days to file the AOS. Just consider it K-1 part duex.



Wow, thanks! This is exactly the info I was looking for! I emailed the embassy now and hopefully all of our ducks will be in a row for when we go down there!
acrowFemaleJamaica2009-04-04 16:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureschild following within a year
My husband is here since November on K1 visa. He has filed for AOS and received advance parole. We were told his son could follow within a year, and we are going back down to Jamaica to get him...

What do I do? Where does his son get his own visa...I am getting conflicting info all over the place. The embassy made it sound like he could just come join no problem, but now I am hearing we need to file all these forms.

Has anyone here done this? What was the procedure?
acrowFemaleJamaica2009-04-03 14:06:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures1st post former NSC adjudicator now petitioner
Welcome!
Michaela_HassanFemaleMorocco2007-02-21 21:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresMoving fiancee' here on B-2 while awaiting K-1
Based on what my lawyer told me, CBP cannot see that a K-1 petition has been filed. That would mean that if you have been able to enter as a visitor before, you have a good chance of getting in this time. I would speak as little as possible and not mention you are visiting a fiance unless you have to (don't lie, but say as little as possible).

However, my fiancee was denied entry. We made the mistake (in hindsight) of trying to enter by land together. We were both visiting Victoria, BC and tried to travel down to Portland. Once they realized we were a couple, they started bullying us (beyond being unprofessional). Since then, we had a lawyer put together a very strong case for my fiancee's visit over the holidays. It didn't work. The case was bulletproof, but the CBP officers disregarded the law, because of the previous entry attempt.

Several things I now know:
* The border from Canada (Vancoiuver) is one of the toughest, rudest and unprofessional crossings. Since this happened to us, we have heard of numerous other stories
* We were too nice to the first officers and too honest about our intentions. My fiancee wanted to spend the duration of her B1/B2 in Oregon with me, until she either had to return for the K-1 or her 6 month stay was up.
* Once you are denied, or flagged in the system, forget it. There is no appeals process for CBP denials, so they have no accountability and can do what they want, regardless of the law.
* We did not research everything enough beforehand.
* Don't travel from a 3rd country.

I now have to travel to see her, which is much more difficult than her traveling here. After living together for years in Auckland, we will now be apart until the K-1 is done processing.
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2008-11-10 21:47:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiancee holiday visit, need PoE advice
If you pass through immigration quickly, its unlikely they would have anything recorded other than dates and places you entered.
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2008-11-12 00:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiancee holiday visit, need PoE advice
QUOTE (Ber + Ter @ Nov 11 2008, 07:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
So let me get this straight, they keep track of the reasons that you claim is the reason why you entered the United States? In my situation, my fiance lives in Las Vegas. US customs has never asked me who I was going to visit or what I planned to do in the US. Its only when I came back that they asked me.


You are probably lucky because Vegas is such a tourist city.

QUOTE (Ber + Ter @ Nov 11 2008, 07:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
The first time I came back, I said that I was visiting a boyfriend and then the second time I stumbled a bit on my answer (I was really tired). They asked me where I went, and I said Las Vegas and they asked why, and then I was like, ''Oh, I'm sorry. I went to Las Vegas and Oklahoma for a military graduation ><.''

So my question is, do they keep records of that ):? They never pulled me aside or anything, they just let me through. I hate Canadian customs. I find them to be more strict than US customs.


I have had good and bad Canadian agents. I am actually treated worse by US immigration. Since my fiance and I tried to cross together, they flagged me and are extremely hostile to me when I enter the US now.

QUOTE (Ber + Ter @ Nov 11 2008, 07:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I plan to visit again in December because my fiance will have time off from the military. What should I say to customs if they ask? And what documentations should I bring? I don't have rent or a mortgage. I still live with my parents and although I do assist my mother with mortgage funds...my name is not on the mortgage. So that's not an option.


Technically you can live with your parent's as your residence. Although that's another thing CBP gave my fiance ####### about. When I moved away from NZ, she moved back with her parents. CBP didn't like that, even though legally that's ok.

QUOTE (Ber + Ter @ Nov 11 2008, 07:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Could I bring a credit card bill and banking information? Anybody with information on that. And I'm going to ask my employer for a letter of when I'm expected back tomorrow.


I think the employer letter is the best bet.

QUOTE (Ber + Ter @ Nov 11 2008, 07:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I've also found that if I give the customs officer my passport and itinerary, they don't give me a problem |:
Any suggestions on what papers I should bring, just in case?
(Hearing all these custom horror stories has made me paranoid.)


I just think I was worse case because 1) my fiance and I had lived together for years in NZ, we were so obviously a long term couple to CBP (we have each others credit cards, personal items, etc) and 2) we crossed over land from Vancouver, which I have learned is one of the strictest and rudest Canadian/US crossings. It was a mistake for us to try to have a short visit in Victoria before coming to the US.

QUOTE (Ber + Ter @ Nov 11 2008, 07:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
EDIT.
Would it be safe to say that I'm going over so we can put together the final pieces of the K-1? I unno...lol


I qoute from my lawyer on the Inspectors Field Manual the reasons you can enter as a visitor and info about residence:
(keep in mind my lawyer prepared a great case for my fiance's visit and it was still denied)

The factors that entitle an individual to entry as a visitor, as outlined in the Inspector’s Field Manual (used by CBP to evaluate whether someone should be allowed to enter), are as follows:

(1) Applicant has a residence in a foreign country, which they do not intend to abandon;

(2) Applicant intends to enter the United States for a temporary visit; and

(3) Applicant has made financial arrangements to carry out the purpose of the visit to, and departure from, the United States.


The IFM states the following purposes as acceptable for admission as a visitor:

(1) Alien coming for purposes of tourism or to make social visits to relatives or friends;

(2) Alien coming to marry a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident with the intent to return to a residence abroad soon after the marriage;

(3) Alien coming to meet the alien fiancé(e)’s family (to become engaged; to make arrangements for a wedding; or to renew a relationship with the prospective spouse).


The Foreign Affairs Manual, also referred to by CBP when determining admissibility, provides the following definitions of key terms:


“Residence” is defined as the place of general abode or the principal, actual dwelling place in fact. The applicant does not need to maintain an independent household to qualify, if they customarily reside in the household of another, and that household is the residence in fact. An applicant for admission can also show a clear intention to establish a residence in their home country after a temporary visit to the United States.

None of it did us any good, though sad.gif
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2008-11-11 23:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiancee holiday visit, need PoE advice
QUOTE (Dave_n_Genna @ Nov 6 2008, 03:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My fiancee does not currently have a job, as I am supporting her till the visa. However, she will have bank statement and return ticket (or at least E-ticket/Itenerary) in her hand.

I'm just going to tell her to be completely honest, and see how it goes. We have nothing to hide, and I cant imagine NZ is really high on the threat meter. tongue.gif


The lack of a job was one reason my fiance was denied on her B1/B2 entry attempt.

She is from NZ as well and left Auckland to travel to Europe over the (northern) summer. At the end of her trip she tried to come to the US to spend time with me. She left her job prior to traveling.

She was denied entry from Vancouver. She flew to Canada as part of her travels and I drove up to meet her in Victoria. We drove down to the US together, which was a mistake.

If your fiance is flying into San Fran or LA, I think they will have a better shot. However, they will still likely be asked about her employement and who she plans to visit here.

I'd like to think what happened to us was worst case scenario, but you never know.

Best of Luck.
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2008-11-11 18:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhy the U.S.?
QUOTE (OKIE2 @ Feb 5 2009, 08:07 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
......waiting on INS to get off thier #### and go to work for the ripoff price Mr. Bush give them last year. In 2004 from filling 129F to citizenship was about $800.00 now it is $2600.00
THANK YOU MR. BUSH


And it takes 3 times as long as it did in 2004 too smile.gif
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-02-05 12:06:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhy the U.S.?
QUOTE (GJen @ Feb 3 2009, 08:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
What makes you want to bring your fiance to the U.S.... instead of relocating to his/her native country?


Cost of living is better. We can afford a home and there are more job opportunities in the US. Everything (mostly) is much cheaper here.

I did live in her native country for 4 years though, and its my second home and where we will likely retire.
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-02-04 19:11:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBased upon the cureent processing times, which visa is the most reliable and fastest to obtain?
My advice (take with a grain of salt): Do the CR-1 route (if that is a viable option for you).

We did the K-1, but had I known about Direct Consular Filing 6 months ago, I would have done that. I have residency in my fiance’s country, but now I am back in the US and too involved with my job, plus finances don’t allow me to leave and return.

Most people will do fine on the K-1 route, but there seems to be 10% or so that get stuck in some vortex at the USCIS, where their petition sits for ages. We are at 4 months now, and most people who filed when we did have been approved. I do not know when we will be approved.

USCIS is slow and not organized (IMO). It’s also hard to get any kind of status from them, and they seem to have little accountability (like most organizations under DHS). If you can avoid them, then do.

Also, the K-1 route will force your fiancé to adjust status in the US, which will take time. Once they get here, there will be a period of months where they can’t do some things easily until they get certain paperwork (EAD, travel docs, etc).


Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-02-12 14:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBackground Checks, How Long?
QUOTE (KimandRuss @ Feb 25 2009, 01:53 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Being allowed to withdraw your petition to enter the Country wont usually have an effect on your visa. It's happened to lots of us. wink.gif


I don't expect my fiance's entry withdrawal to prevent her visa approval, but because it was actually 3 different attempts (each one denied), I suspect that could cause more scrutiny. Long story why she tried three times but basically two were within the same day - we had to get more docs and the first POE was closed. The third attempt was after even more supporting docs were gathered, but the officer refused to take responsibility and overturn the previous 214b, even though she meet all the entry criteria.


Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-02-25 18:57:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBackground Checks, How Long?
QUOTE (Steve1027 @ Feb 25 2009, 12:17 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Our petition has also been in background checks since Jan 9. Neither of us have any notable background history except that 6 months ago we tried for a visitor visa rather than a fiancee visa because we wanted longer to plan the wedding. But the visitor visa was denied. I hope that doesnt mean that we are going to be in security checks for another 2 months.

Does anyone have a similar situation? How long did it take for your petition to be cleared?


I have a sorta similar situation, but we are still waiting. My fiance was denied entry on a visitor's visa and I suspect her CBP record has (or will) force us to security checks.

My fiance tried to enter to spend 5-6 months with me (ok with her B2 visa), but the POE denied her entry (they were real jerks about it). Since she was far from home, we actually had a lawyer put together her case and she tried to enter again, and was denied. I have a sinking feeling that this info in her CBP records is why our petition hasn't been approved when most others from our time have been.

Also, Steve1027, how do you know you are in checks? I didn't think you can inquiry until 6 months has passed. I thought about calling USCIS or a congressman, but figured I would not get anything until 6 months passed.

Besd of luck to us all.

Edited by Ed+Cindy, 25 February 2009 - 04:40 PM.

Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-02-25 16:38:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHPV Vaccine info
QUOTE (rocks @ Feb 26 2009, 12:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
the hpv vaccine is a requirement for aos. no doctor inside or outside the us can decide that you don't need it without very good reason, it isn't optional.


Have you read the CDC booklet regarding vaccines for foreign doctors? I used to have a link for it, but I can't seem to find it right now.
Whether or not a person needs a vaccine is up to the examining doc, NOT the US government or CDC.

Anyway, I could careless about it because we are too old for HPV anyway.

Edited by Ed+Cindy, 26 February 2009 - 03:52 PM.

Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-02-26 15:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHPV Vaccine info
QUOTE (Ed+Cindy @ Feb 26 2009, 10:30 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Try to get the vaccine waived in your home country, where its likely the doc won't be as controlled by the pharma companies as they are in the US.

Try having your regular doc write up a letter stating you are allergic to the ingredients, or something else.

Or, just wait till you are over 26 years old smile.gif


I never intended to advocate lying.

I meant to suggest that one should discuss concerns with your care provider and that doctors outside the US are more likely to have an honest opinion (IMO).

I believe docs in the US are under too much pressure from pharmaceutical companies and government. I am not implying foreign docs would be dishonest, just that they have more freedom to do what is medically correct, rather than what a corporation or government wants them to do.

Just my opinion after spending many years seeing doctors in other countries besides the US.

Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-02-26 14:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHPV Vaccine info
QUOTE (payxibka @ Feb 26 2009, 07:35 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Tmac @ Feb 25 2009, 11:47 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Does anyone know if these vaccination requirements are country specific?


no not country specific... vaccinations can be "waivable" for circumstance but only someone like a Civil Surgeon or Panel Physician can make that determination... simply being an "objector" probably will not qualify as a reason


Try to get the vaccine waived in your home country, where its likely the doc won't be as controlled by the pharma companies as they are in the US.

Try having your regular doc write up a letter stating you are allergic to the ingredients, or something else.

Or, just wait till you are over 26 years old smile.gif
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-02-26 13:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAffidativ of support
QUOTE (deneter @ Mar 12 2009, 02:10 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello everyone,

my fiance (US) and I are just starting on the affidativ of support. He just talked to his supervisor who told him that they are not authorized to sign a letter for his proof of employment.
He needs to get it through a webpage called theworknumber.com.
I find this very funny.
Has anyone here ever heard of anything like that?
Does it count for the affidativ of support?

Thanks for any answers. I love this forum!


Haha...I know EXACTLY what you are talking about...I worked from 1999-2004 for a large technical company in the US that makes microprocessors (you can guess who) and they told me the same thing in 2005 when I tried to get proof of prior employment for my skilled migrant visa to New Zealand.

I was able to print the webpage from theworknumber.com and use that with my visa application to show prior employment. It was accepted OK by NZ immigration.

I think if you have your US fiance print the info from theworknumber.com, the embassy/consulate should accept that, because they probably know what it is. Also, if your fiance sends you a few of his recent pay stubs, that should work too.

As stated before, actually letters of employment aren't as commonly requested in the US as they are in Europe and elsewhere. I don't know why.

Edited by Ed+Cindy, 13 March 2009 - 02:59 PM.

Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-03-13 14:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresUk girl engaged to an American guy
My fiance was denied entry (admission withdrawn) and cannot visit me. There are a few of us recently with this issue, see here:
http://www.visajourn...howtopic=183698

However, being turned away at the US border is by far the minority, so I would not worry about it.

Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-03-13 18:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresMIA TSA Nightmare
QUOTE (DedHeadTed @ Mar 17 2009, 01:07 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I'm am confused as to where our civil rights have gone though, our right to privacy;.


You can thank our late president and the numerous "anti-terrorist' laws that he passed that really just took away our rights. Amazing what you can do when people are scared.

Oh, and at least your fiance was admitted, I'm actually surprised. You were lucky. Be aware that with this incident in her record, you might have a tougher time the next time she tried to enter (before having a K-1 visa).

Just my 2 cents worth only.
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-03-17 11:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresMIA TSA Nightmare
QUOTE (DedHeadTed @ Mar 17 2009, 01:07 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
So my fiancee and I were entering the country after I had gone for a visit and ran into some trouble with the TSA. I'm a citizen and she has a B2 visa, she is only entering for a short visit (3 weeks, too short for me!), she has employment in colombia and is about to graduate in a month from college (no classes now, waiting for the ceremony). She also has tickets to show when she would be returning. But, we didn't get spots near each other on the plane because it was overbooked and we were lucky to get what we did. So coming in they had a special prelimary check, I got through first just telling them I had gone to colombia to see my girlfriend, that was enough for the agent and he sent me on. So I moved on to the next part were I was waiting for the normal passport check line, and in comes a agent with my fiancee telling me I need to come with him. She had told him she was coming to stay with her boyfriend and then return. The agent claimed that I had lied though, which definitely confused me because I don't know where I had lied. He told me then I had lied because I had not said that she was returning with me. Then I tried to explain that we were split up on the plane and the original agent I had talked to wasn't that concerned with that much information. Then he said (very rudely) that I was misleading which qualifies as lying, so he and two other (much nicer and older agents, god bless them) then took us through the normal passport routine, then to get our bags, and then to do the complete search on our bags. They didn't find anything (as usual) and the original, younger agent with obvious authority issues, was a real you-know-what the whole time. We got through, and I never lied. I'm am confused as to where our civil rights have gone though, our right to privacy; because I don't give the the complete info on my trip (how many times washed myself, how many potato chips I ate, how many dumps I took) it's considered as misleading? And then that's transformed into lying?! So now my fiancee is concerned that they are going to put something against us that will prevent us from doing our K1 visa in the coming month or so, I worry somewhat as some of those agents have extreme authority issues and who knows what fishy ####### they might do. They didn't speak of any actual charges or something and I would figure you would have to actually be convicted of a crime, in other words, you would know if they were going to have some kind of penalty for you. So, finally, what do you guys think? Is this going to give me trouble even when I did nothing wrong? We hope not, as we are trying to do this visa by ourselves.


Having traveled extensively and acquired permanent residency in another country, and temporary residency in a third one over my life, I can tell you that US CBP and immigration are the worst in the world to deal with. They don't treat people with the respect a human (or even a dog) deserves.

We've had even worse problems with CBP than you (which is who you meant, not TSA).

My fiance was turned back at the border when we tried to enter together back in October. While I know this will not affect approval of our K-1, the fact that she has a 'complicated' record in CBP's database is probably the reason we are still waiting for approval.

Sorry to say this, but don't be surprised if your K-1 takes longer than most others. I polled about 6 recent K-1 petitions where the foreign fiance had border entry issues (usually withdrew admission) and all but one of them took longer than average to process. See my post here:

http://www.visajourn...h...t&p=2724975

Sad, isn't it, when you consider we are just decent normal couples trying to progress with life in a legal way.

Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-03-17 10:41:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresOdd situation....
QUOTE (Anh map @ Mar 18 2009, 03:50 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
She's entering the US as a passenger in a commercial transport vehicle. That vehicle driven by a family member.


Be very careful if you enter while traveling in a family member's vehicle.

If you are turned back, its likely your incident will be noted in that family member's CBP record and/or associated with their vehicle registration. This could cause extra scrutiny for them in the future when they try to cross the border. If this is a commercial vehicle that travels frequently back and forth between the two countries, this could be annoying for them and cause delays each time they try to pass.
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-03-18 18:08:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresOdd situation....
QUOTE (Marina-Del @ Mar 18 2009, 10:19 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Others can respond with more personal knowledge (as my fiancee never tried entering while we were doing the K-1), but in my PERSONAL opinion, nothing is better than a return ticket home! smile.gif Again, others are welcome to disagree!


Actually return tickets are disposable. One can just not use the return portion.

We had a return ticket, and it did not help us. Once the officers knew my fiance was in a relationship with an American, it was over for her. We had all the proof in the world that her visit was temporary (even had our lawyer put together proof for immigration that her visit was, in fact, only a visit), Nothing helped. I think some of this is POE specific. Vancouver was the worst POE I have ever dealt with.
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-03-18 16:48:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresOdd situation....
QUOTE (YuAndDan @ Mar 18 2009, 08:54 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Be aware when there is a petition in process with USCIS immigrant intent is indicated and the POE can block entry to the USA.


This happened to us when my fiance was trying to visit me. She was also coming from Canada (Vancouver). She was turned away and ended up having to buy a ticket from Vancouver back to Auckland, where she is waiting for her K-1 visa.
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-03-18 16:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFilling out a green I-94 piece of paper (commonly thought of as the Visa Waiver form)
QUOTE (SDARCY13 @ Mar 20 2009, 06:20 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thanks guys, just to confirm though, I do not need to fill the form in even though I was mistaken and it does fall into the category "You are currently not in possession of a visitor's visa."


The electronic form is only for people traveling without a visa (IE Visa Waiver Program).
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-03-20 10:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNew around here...
QUOTE (rnkew @ Mar 19 2009, 03:33 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thanks for all the information.
My boyfriend's 1st B2 visa attempt in Feb 2009 was rejected under Section 214b at the Buenos Aires US Embassy.


Section 214b is the usual one visas and entry attempts are declined for. Basically, within US immigration law, section 214b states that all non-immigrants are assumed to have immigrant intend unless they can prove otherwise. Its a 'guilty until proven innocent" mentality.

Can he fly to Mexico? If he can get closer, then maybe you (and your family) can have a visit in Mexico.

My fiance can't come to the US (until her K-1 is issued) because she was turned around at the border last fall. We meet in BC, Canada. That way I don't have to take as much time off work to fly to the southern hemisphere. She does the long haul and I just drive a few hours north.

Edited by Ed+Cindy, 19 March 2009 - 06:47 PM.

Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-03-19 18:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresTime Spent Together Before Deciding to Get Married?
QUOTE (SAVM @ Mar 28 2009, 02:48 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi Everyone,

This is such a fascinating site. From the looks of people's signatures, it seems a lot of folks took the plunge to get married quite quickly after meeting their now fiance(e). Just out of curiosity, I was just wondering how much time you physically spent with your now fiance(e) before deciding to spend everyday for the rest of your lives together.


I think this depends on the people, their age, personality and where they are in life. Lots of variety.

You also have to consider that the US won't let you sponsor a partner without being married. I think the marriage process may be rushed for some, but if people are happy that's all that really matters.

For us, we actually meet overseas and lived together for about 3 years prior to the K-1 process.

Are we more 'legit' than couples who haven't lived together or spent more than a few weeks together? I don't think one can say that fairly. We have just gone through the acclimation of living together already, so marriage will be no real change for us, where as it may be more of an adjustment for those that are also learning to live with each other. Its all life though.
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-03-30 11:41:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresEmployment Letter - Advice?
QUOTE (John and Camie @ Mar 31 2009, 02:03 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My employer won't send me my Letter of Employment for the Affidavit; instead, they insist on sending it directly to the Embassy in London *sigh* - anyone ever heard of this? I work for the big mouse ears ...


Lots of companies in the US don't produce letters of employment. It's not something that is used as much in the US.

In Europe, you need a letter verifying your employment for just about everything.
In New Zealand, no one cares about where you work.
In the US, they tend to use credit ratings for everything.

Recent pay statements should be enough to verify your salary.

Edited by Ed+Cindy, 31 March 2009 - 03:59 PM.

Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-03-31 15:57:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHELP! advice for marrying my foreign fiance
QUOTE (payxibka @ Apr 1 2009, 12:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Ed+Cindy @ Apr 1 2009, 01:32 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I would expect that the 2 year minimum is before one is eligible for another J1 visa, but check with the consulate.
I would not expect any kind of restriction to be placed on a K-1, unless a person actually has a ban from the US.


you expect wrong... smile.gif

2 yr HRR is required to be served (or waived) is not just limited to the issuance of another J-1


Well, ok.

What about a CR/1 visa? Could they relocate to the UK for 6 months, then apply for a CR-1? That may be another option?
(not sure how long a waiver takes to process for a K-1?)
Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-04-01 15:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHELP! advice for marrying my foreign fiance
QUOTE (laureldevine @ Apr 1 2009, 11:17 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
thanks guys! also, does anyone know if there is a certain time he must remain in his country after his J1 student gap year visa? i keep hearing that with some J1 visas its a 2 year minimum before one can get another visa.. but to my knowledge the J1 gap year is different??

I would expect that the 2 year minimum is before one is eligible for another J1 visa, but check with the consulate.
I would not expect any kind of restriction to be placed on a K-1, unless a person actually has a ban from the US.

Edited by Ed+Cindy, 01 April 2009 - 01:33 PM.

Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-04-01 13:32:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHELP! advice for marrying my foreign fiance
QUOTE (laureldevine @ Apr 1 2009, 10:05 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Also, does anyone have a general outline of the costs for everything (i keep seeing different ammounts).


I remember reading that from K-1 to AOS was about $2800. I'm not sure if this value included removing conditions two years later or not.

You can look up amounts, but basically some costs I know of are approximately....

K-1 petition $455
Medical exam $???
Visa at Embassy $131
AOS about $1100
Removing conditions $???

Incidentals, like photos, courier mailing of packets, etc $???

Edited by Ed+Cindy, 01 April 2009 - 12:32 PM.

Ed+CindyMaleNew Zealand2009-04-01 12:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures1st post former NSC adjudicator now petitioner
Getting congressional help, for me at least, is easier said then done. I contacted several and got a completely different excuse every time about exactly why they couldn't help. :angry: >.< It is good to know for sure who was telling the truth (none of them) and who will be getting my vote next election (none of them!)
PortlanderMaleThailand2007-05-13 03:00:00