ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionRequest for more evidence - what else can we send them?
QUOTE (Raj0000 @ Dec 30 2008, 01:04 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Merp & all:
I, too, dont think that no kids and no name change are the reason for RFE. USCIS cannot reject based on this as they just can't do that otherwise a law suit will follow them for invading people's personal life and taking their freedom away and its against basic US constitution. Period.
I posted earlier was just on lighter side since people were talking abt babies...but I wont worry abt it.
We are planning to apply this week for 751 and we are above 30s and have no kids and no name change either.
Merp - USCIS is notorious abt missing files/docs and overlooking things...so GL to you...


Ohhhhhhh... the government has NO problem invading the personal lives of individuals or taking freedom away in many regards.... thank god I am not poor and know I have the option of EC, BC or anything else I damn well please... ok that just took it to another level that I wish not to instigate... check out Bush's recent ruling on what physicians federally funded are able to NOT tell patients now if you're interested with where I was going with that.... I digress.

Perhaps you two could just chop off a limb as evidence that you'd really just do anything to be together. A limb would likely suffice.

I'm sorry. I'm snippy lately. I need to change my attitude. blush.gif
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-12-30 22:36:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionRequest for more evidence - what else can we send them?
QUOTE (Lindsay G @ Dec 29 2008, 08:46 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Merp @ Dec 29 2008, 08:14 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
haha! I'll take any ideas I can get tongue_ss.gif

I did send copies of our Drivers IDs... but not credit cards, I will put that on the list. We had thought about Will when we sent in the packet, but didn't know if it would look bad that it was dated and done right before we sent in our packet... would it look even more rushed now? I'm going to spend tomorrow looking through all our paper work and see what I can find... at least my husband said tonight "good thing you're a pack rat and keep all that stuff" so if nothing else for once my pack rat personality might just be handy!


Oh my god... this thread just terrified me. Seriously, an RFE after what you sent in is seriously the most f**ked up thing I've ever heard. Are you kidding me?! What more could they possibly want?

I'm just trying to get through my husband's interview process and his move here.... good to know now, though- I'm going to get my hoarding of evidence on.... yikes.

This wasn't a very helpful post, sorry. Do you have a movie card jointly, like Blockbuster? If not, you could get one- I don't think it has the date on it. Any bills he has paid for the mortage- attach the receipt to your ownership papers?? That's all I got. Good luck! I'm sure you two will be fine- you probably just got the worker in training.



Ok, I'm still peeved about this.... so I've talked to my coworkers about the requirements for this whole process (which I for the most part understand WHY they ask- I think it is taken to extreme), and the majority of them said that they probably would not pass an interview!

Maybe you two could try to adopt a kid.... or take a picture next to your newly built white picket fence.... or show some pictures of you baking cookies and him clipping the yard before the block party....

Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-12-29 21:50:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionRequest for more evidence - what else can we send them?
QUOTE (Merp @ Dec 29 2008, 08:14 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
haha! I'll take any ideas I can get tongue_ss.gif

I did send copies of our Drivers IDs... but not credit cards, I will put that on the list. We had thought about Will when we sent in the packet, but didn't know if it would look bad that it was dated and done right before we sent in our packet... would it look even more rushed now? I'm going to spend tomorrow looking through all our paper work and see what I can find... at least my husband said tonight "good thing you're a pack rat and keep all that stuff" so if nothing else for once my pack rat personality might just be handy!


Oh my god... this thread just terrified me. Seriously, an RFE after what you sent in is seriously the most f**ked up thing I've ever heard. Are you kidding me?! What more could they possibly want?

I'm just trying to get through my husband's interview process and his move here.... good to know now, though- I'm going to get my hoarding of evidence on.... yikes.

This wasn't a very helpful post, sorry. Do you have a movie card jointly, like Blockbuster? If not, you could get one- I don't think it has the date on it. Any bills he has paid for the mortage- attach the receipt to your ownership papers?? That's all I got. Good luck! I'm sure you two will be fine- you probably just got the worker in training.
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-12-29 21:46:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionApproved
Received approval for removing conditions from the CSC..... much faster than we thought! 9 weeks from start to finish....

Thank god no more immigration until the Citizenship!

By the way, does the 3 years required for my husband to be in US start from the date of his arrival on a CR1 or from the approval of removal of conditional basis?

Thanks,
Lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2011-05-03 18:59:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresMaterials for NVC
Hello all,

Ok... so once our case gets to the NVC, what "supporting documents" are required with IV application? I thought that the police records were something my husband was needing for his interview. I want everything prepared ahead of time (since I have all this time now!). I did search the guides before posting this, and looked around various posts. I just keep seeing "sent all documents in".

Thanks in advance.
lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-07-24 00:37:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAOSupport Questions
QUOTE (Creel @ Jul 26 2008, 10:06 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I can't say for sure what they will do, but I was a student with no income when I met my fiance, so the 2005 tax forms I submitted only showed about $4,000 and 2006 wasn't over when we had to submit the forms with our packet 3. I just submitted a letter from my employer stating how long I had worked for them (6 years because I was on a leave for school) and how much my annual salary was, recent pay stubs to prove what my current income was, and a letter from me explaining why the income was so low the previous year. When we had to adjust status in 2007 we had my tax forms for 2006 so we had no problems.

I don't think I would have your parents co-sponser unless they tell you you don't make enough. Good luck.



Thanks Creel- sounds like it worked out well for you. If I don't have a co-sponsor, and the consulate rejects my husband due to "public charge" (even though not technically the case- I'm just super paranoid), does anyone know if they would give us the option for a co-sponsor FIRST before denying and having us start all over again??
Lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-07-26 23:11:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAOSupport Questions
Hi all,

A few quick questions I am sure someone will be able to help me with.

1) A little background: I graduated in May 07 from graduate school, so it is no suprise my income over the last few years was bleak. Tomorrow, I begin a job where I will be making around 36,000/yr (that's weird to just throw that out there, but it's important for AOS, so I don't mind if ya'll know). Now, I will not be using my husband's income/assets on AOS. My question is: my IRS from 2007 transcript will not be enough to qualifiy. Do you think I need to get a joint sponsor even though I will be making the above money and don't have any dependents? Or, will the consulate look at my history and think my income may be questionable (which would be stupid, though, because I have my Master's and it's unlikely I will not be able to find employment paying 125% pov.level). Is there some sort of time length of 125% above Poverty Level needed or advisable??

2) If it's suggested I get a joint sponsor just in case, my parents said they were willing. I'm confused about what forms they would need to fill out. I currently live at home with my parents, but am not going to count them as "household members" on my I-864 (right?). Also, wouldn't it be easier for just my dad (rather than mom and dad) doing the joint sponsor (he makes more than enough for this)? If I should have my dad joint sponsor, he will fill out the I-864 AND I-864A?

3) Part 5 on Form I-864: I'm sponsoring my husband. How do I reconcile the discrepancy between 21a & 21c??? Do I just leave 21c blank? Also, 21g: I live with my parents, so rather than joint sponsor, should I just add them in as household income?? (even though I'm independent of them??)

I'm sorry about the length of my questions...I hope they are clear. I don't know if I am just maybe reading too much into this. Please help if you can.

Thank you in advance!
Take care,'
Lindsay

5/14/08 Married
6/9/08 NOA1
x/x/08 NOA2
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-07-26 20:08:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAOS Help needed
Hi all,

A few questions I am sure someone will be able to help me with. (reposting this).

1) A little background: I graduated in May 07 from graduate school, so it is no suprise my income over the last few years was bleak. Tomorrow, I begin a job where I will be making around 36,000/yr (that's weird to just throw that out there, but it's important for AOS, so I don't mind if ya'll know). My question is: my IRS from 2007 transcript will not be enough to qualifiy. Do you think I need to get a joint sponsor even though I will be making the above money and don't have any dependents? Or, will the consulate look at my history and think my income may be questionable? Is there some sort of time length of 125% above Poverty Level needed or advisable??

2) If it's suggested I get a joint sponsor just in case, my parents said they were willing. I'm confused about what forms they would need to fill out. I currently live at home with my parents, but am not going to count them as "household members" on my I-864 (right?). Also, wouldn't it be easier for just my dad (rather than mom and dad) doing the joint sponsor (he makes more than enough for this)? If I should have my dad joint sponsor, he will fill out the I-864 AND I-864A?

3) Part 5 on Form I-864: I'm sponsoring my husband. How do I reconcile the discrepancy between 21a & 21c??? Do I just leave 21c blank? Also, 21g: I live with my parents, so rather than joint sponsor, should I just add them in as household income?? (even though I'm independent of them??)

I'm sorry about the length of my questions...I hope they are clear. I don't know if I am just maybe reading too much into this. Please help if you can.

Thank you in advance!
Take care,'
Lindsay

5/14/08 Married
6/9/08 NOA1
x/x/08 NOA2
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-07-27 13:56:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresInteresting Question about a new Job and I-864
QUOTE (Rajaa_Reda @ Aug 2 2008, 11:22 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I think if you just have a letter from your employer stating how much you make and that it is a permant full time position they will understand the situation. They just want to make sure that you can support your spouse and yourself the first year.....at least and they do not become a strain on the state.

Rajaa


Thanks Rajaa...
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-08-02 12:43:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresInteresting Question about a new Job and I-864
QUOTE (rmncm @ Aug 1 2008, 07:21 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Could I include a copy of my last year bank records? I had almost $40,000 in deposits from workers comp, unemployment and work? Would that also help? What all should I include in a letter? This job I am starting is contract labor. I contract from another company to install satellite systems that they sell. So I dont really work for them other then they make the sell and I get paid to install the system. I am responsable for all my own expenses. I am kind of at a loss as what to say in the letter.

Thanks Patience!


Hi RMMCM,

I'm in your same boat... I posted nearly your same question about a week ago, and noone responded. I'm unsure if I should have my cosponsor "just in case" the consulate decides to be suspect about it. (was a grad student, travelled last year and got married, just started a job last week making $35,000/yr...). I'm not sure if there is some sort of needed timeframe for earning enough money. What are you going to do??

lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-08-02 12:18:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNothing
Hi all,

Nothing............... no touches......... I'm starting to worry. I'm trying to stay positive, and I'm really hoping this process can be over by next spring, but there's no movement. NSC, I'm sorry, I know there are many people waiting yet longer than us.... I'm hoping for everyone.

3 months to the day when I see my husband at thanksgiving... yah kicking.gif Can't wait.

Oh... if anyone's looking to save some money on international calling, try COMFI (try their web-call; it rings your home phone (or cell), then connects- my experience, is that it's MUCH cheaper than advertised...)

Take care all
lindsay

5.14.08 Married
6.8.08 NOA1
XXX
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-08-21 19:45:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI-864..How much of a Annual Salary is enough??
QUOTE (YuAndDan @ Aug 22 2008, 02:08 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Lindsay G @ Aug 21 2008, 08:54 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi YuAndDan,

Question: I just started my job two weeks ago, and make $35,000/yr. My 2007 tax return wasn't very much, since I was a full-time grad student. Do you think I need a joint-sponsor just in case? I would assume they would look at my education and current job and figure I can meet 125% consistently, but I'm paranoid that they'll get suspect about it. If I didn't get a joing-sponsor, and they wanted one when they review the paperwork, could I obtain one then, or does the process start all over?

Thanks!!!
lindsay
This is what I would do, use I-864 and attach 2007 IRS transcript, employer letter stating current salary, and that job is full time permanent, as well as copies of recent pay stubs. I would also line up a joint sponsor, however hold back the joint sponsor and only use the joint sponsor if you get an RFE, no seance in having the joint sponsor contractually obligated to the government if not required, keep in mind the I-864 is a binding document.


Thanks for the advice... so you think they'll send an RFE if they wanted a joint sponsor? Good. I was just scared that they would deny and we'd have to start the whole wild process again. My parents said they would joint sponsor, no problem. But they file their taxes together, so I'm unsure if one of my parents sponsoring and filling out the form would be sufficient, or if they both would have to fill out a separate one, since they file taxes jointly. Anyways, I hope they'd see my current income and education as reason enough to not cause a problem! Thanks for your help!! =)
lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-08-23 11:55:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI-864..How much of a Annual Salary is enough??
QUOTE (YuAndDan @ Aug 21 2008, 04:44 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
You DO NOT need a joint sponsor if your gross income reported on most recent year's return, and current income exceeds 125% povertyline when counting self, dependents, immigrant, and any additional dependents immigrating with the immigrant.

NOTE USCIS has a specific affidavit of support designed for people that are:
  • Sponsoring only one immigrant.
  • NOT using a joint sponsor.
  • NOT using assets.
Form I-864EZ...

We used this one for my wife's green-card. http://www.uscis.gov...orm/I-864EZ.pdf


Hi YuAndDan,

Question: I just started my job two weeks ago, and make $35,000/yr. My 2007 tax return wasn't very much, since I was a full-time grad student. Do you think I need a joint-sponsor just in case? I would assume they would look at my education and current job and figure I can meet 125% consistently, but I'm paranoid that they'll get suspect about it. If I didn't get a joing-sponsor, and they wanted one when they review the paperwork, could I obtain one then, or does the process start all over?

Thanks!!!
lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-08-21 19:54:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCertified or originals for DS230
QUOTE (waitingforever @ Aug 23 2008, 02:06 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Original Birthcerti, Original Polic Certi. and Original Marriage certi for DS-230. Please don't send them Certified/Notarized copies from India, that might delay your NVC process by getting RFE. Almost everyone VJers got their Original back after interview. That's just my opinion. Hope this helps and good luck.

QUOTE (sgr @ Aug 22 2008, 05:56 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I was wondering whether NVC accepts Certified/Notarized copies of originals from INDIA(birth, marriage &police certificates) with DS230.Any had success with submiting notarized copies?

Thanks.



Question: I read from NVC website (i believe, but I can't remember exactly where), that the birth, marriage, police cert's DON'T need to be translated, as long as they are in the official language of the country where the interview is going to be in. Any thoughts/experiences with this one?!?!

Thanks!
lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-08-24 12:30:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNothing
QUOTE (cleo_pat @ Sep 8 2008, 05:15 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Lindsay G @ Sep 7 2008, 01:14 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Nothing............... I'm guessing it will take even longer now due to VSC transfers.... While I'm happy for everyone when they get approved, it pisses me off to see CSC NOA's in late June or even July get approved before ours... "we process in the order they were received" my ###.

Sorry for the gloomy post- I'm not very positive today. wacko.gif

lindsay

QUOTE (Lindsay G @ Sep 7 2008, 02:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Nothing............... I'm guessing it will take even longer now due to VSC transfers.... While I'm happy for everyone when they get approved, it pisses me off to see CSC NOA's in late June or even July get approved before ours... "we process in the order they were received" my ###.

Sorry for the gloomy post- I'm not very positive today. wacko.gif

lindsay



Hey all,

No, obviously I'm not angry at any petitioners/ben's for transfers or quick approvals... I'd have to be a raging ###hole to project anger at those who had no control over the process... just as I'd be an ###hole to discount other's suffering just because I thought it was less than my own. It's really only fair that those transfers to CSC happened- and while I selfishly want our case approved now, at the end of the day those waiting longer should be approved first. Bottom line.

And I probably should get a hobby. Thanks for the advice.
lindsay

Sorry all- I meant to post this in June Filers....


Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-09-09 19:16:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNothing
Nothing............... I'm guessing it will take even longer now due to VSC transfers.... While I'm happy for everyone when they get approved, it pisses me off to see CSC NOA's in late June or even July get approved before ours... "we process in the order they were received" my ###.

Sorry for the gloomy post- I'm not very positive today. wacko.gif

lindsay

QUOTE (Lindsay G @ Sep 7 2008, 02:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Nothing............... I'm guessing it will take even longer now due to VSC transfers.... While I'm happy for everyone when they get approved, it pisses me off to see CSC NOA's in late June or even July get approved before ours... "we process in the order they were received" my ###.

Sorry for the gloomy post- I'm not very positive today. wacko.gif

lindsay



Sorry all- I meant to post this in June Filers....
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-09-07 15:14:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresJune Filers!
YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS Just checked my email, and update notice sent that says our approval letter was SENT TODAY!!! So happy....... hang in there everyone waiting- it's coming!

kicking.gif kicking.gif kicking.gif kicking.gif kicking.gif good.gif
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-09-17 21:19:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresJune Filers!
We got a touch today!! Finally!!!!! kicking.gif Our application is not lost in the back corridors of a florescently lit warehouse, collecting dust. Let's hope for no RFE's, and a quick approval....

"I feel good, I feel great, I feel wonderful". (Name that movie?)

lindsay good.gif
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-09-17 21:11:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresJune Filers!
QUOTE (SKluvSH @ Sep 5 2008, 02:53 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Jamericanlove @ Aug 19 2008, 08:47 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
How's everyone doing? I hope well and that more approvals are waiting in the wings.

I don't think I updates in this thread but the expedites went through and I have my interview in 2 weeks. I'm so excited about it all that time seems to have come to a crawl. laughing.gif

The medical is this thursday and I'm ready to get that done and out of the way.

I want to see some more action in this thread before the end of the month. Just remember to think positive guys...it always works for me yes.gif


Are there any more June/July filers left here. Please update if there are for any touches/approvals. Thanks



Nothing.
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-09-09 19:20:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresJune Filers!
Nothing yet..... not even a touch..... wacko.gif

Please California..... please... please please.... maybe I should jump, turn around, toss some salt, and spit... or send them all some cookies... everybody works faster when they have some cookies... good.gif

I get to see my love from Nov 21-30 (I miss him so much it hurts), so hopefully we'll be well into NVC or even out (hopefully) by then!

Congrats to those recently approved and heading onto NVC!!!

Lindsay
5.14.08 Married
6.9.08 NOA1
XXXX NOA2
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-08-12 17:44:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresJune Filers!
QUOTE (Jamericanlove @ Jul 26 2008, 05:48 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
yay! Congrats and I told you....my feeling was right....lots more to come. yes.gif Hang in there guys good.gif



Congrats!!! You're only a week before me (NOA1)... if it goes this fast for me to, I'd better quickly get NVC stuff together. Still have to have my husband get his police certificates, sign DS230, passport pics, english translations on bc (although NVC said we didn't need to as long as it is Albanian and he'll go through the Albanian consulate...?), aos stuff, etc etc etc...

Anyways, congrats... I hope your kids have a speedy approval as well (I'm sure they're right behind ya- they approve them together).

Take care
lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-07-26 16:17:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresJune Filers!
QUOTE (rmncm @ Jul 23 2008, 10:46 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Lindsay or anyone else that might be interested:

If your husband has high speed internet, you can go to www.packet8.net and buy one of the adapters. Then when you get it hook it up to your broadband, call and subscribe it and send it to your husband. You or him can call any time you want for free err well you pay your monthly fee. Now here is the kicker, he can also call anyone in the United States and other countries listed in your plan for free. It is a real phone, like your land line. He needs to be carefull about calling were he lives as it will be long distance even though he lives there. I sent my wife a packet8 phone and we talk all the time, she can talk to her family/friends that are here in the states and canada. My bill is around 32 bucks a month as long as there is no long distace calls. Its accually a very good way to talk to him for cheap.

Feal free to ask me any questions you may have regarding this. There are also many other voip (voice over internet protocol) phone providers out there. Like vonage or sun rocket and many others. One new one that has just came out is called Majicjack. I dont know much about it but it seems ok. You buy the usb adapter, plug it into your computer, plug your phone into it and make phone calls. Majic jack needs a highspeed connection also. Remember you have to subscribe it here and then send it to them.

http://www.magicjack.com/2/?mid=304185


Thanks for this! Man, I wish my husband had the internet in his home... $32 a month?! I'm spending that about every 3 days! I haven't heard of Majicjack or Sun Rocket before... I need to look more into those VOIP things- that may be the way to go. I guess the internet is really expensive where he lives... plus, he doesn't have a computer (which somewhat complicates things more... =) Thanks for your help!!
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-07-23 23:54:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresJune Filers!
QUOTE (Madwoman @ Jul 23 2008, 09:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Lindsay G @ Jul 21 2008, 01:19 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi All,

I've been away from VJ for a few weeks, and am glad to have found this thread! CSC received my I-130 on 6/4/08, with a Notice Date of 6/9/08. Nothing yet, although that's expected at this point. Although I have to say........ I haven't seen my husband since May 21st, and since I mailed this petition, it feels like a damn year has passed. I just hope this all goes fast and smooth...

I love the thought of my husband having his Visa in hand by January! Oh god, that'd be wonderful. Not to take it down to a depressing place, but I've already convinced myself that it will be at least until next April or May until he gets his Visa. I looks as if the CR-1 is approx 8-9 mo's on avg., so if things go faster than that, well, then I'll just... I don't even know what I'd do, but I'm sure it would involve some champaign, and we'll be so happy.

I finally found a job, and accepted it. This means, however, that I wont be able to visit my husband for another 5 mo's or so (I'm hoping for possibly a week in November, or two around X-Mas). New employee, no time off, rat race, etc etc... 7 mo's apart. I feel like total hell. I sometimes want to tell perfect strangers to not take for granted the fact that they get to wake up with their partner every morning.... ahh...
I look forward to hopefully feeling less alone with all this nonsence from my fellow June filers.....

I mean, really, this process is just ridiculous.

Anyways, glad you all are here!
Lindsay



Hey Lindsay! Just wanted to say I enjoyed reading your post and I read your story on your profile and loved it! It is SO hard to be apart from the one your love. I really resonated with your experience of working over here...miserable and missing your sweetheart. I am at that point right now...I am a counselor as well and although my job has its rewards, it is just HARD. A friend of mine said it best: "There is a hole in your heart and no way to fill it right now!" I constantly think about hopping on a plane back to Uganda, but for this moment I'm doing my best to stick it out for various reasons. I am going to visit him over Christmas/New Years so I am just holding my breath until then!

(More people should add their story so we can share the love!!! tongue.gif )


Hi Madwoman,

Thanks for your message... I decided I'm going to start playing the lottery, because then I could... well we all know what we could do if that happened! No really, I'm going to start. I wanted to stop smoking anyways, so now I can just spend that money for loto cards. And this is truly uncharacteristic of me... I mean, come on, the lottery??

And while I realize I probably wont even win enough to salvage my self-respect, it is still possible... and I've decided that ANY hope I can generate in my life right now is well worth it. Hope... thinking of the future... the house we'll buy together, the trips we'll take, the Saturday mornings drinking coffee together.... that's the only way I can function right now. That's what keeps me from losing all control and charging a ticket to Albania and quiting my job (that I don't actually start until Monday!)... hope, that if I put the effort and time and tears in now, it will be just that much better a year from now. Plus, I really just want Edi to come home to me and have things nice for him... slightly more settled, slightly less worrisome financially. So hang in there- and your desperate urge to fly back to Uganda is a good thing... it means your relationship is as it should be.

This is funny- the two therapists in the forum counseling each other... hahahahaha

Wish me luck with my lotto purchase tom. blink.gif
lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-07-23 22:33:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresJune Filers!
QUOTE (rmncm @ Jul 23 2008, 08:40 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
How many june filers have had a touch other then Jamericanlove? I know he filed a expidite request so thats why he is getting fondeled.
Well to pass the time I am looking for a job and in my free time I am reading different forums, talking to my wife for a few hours a day and I have been playing Team Fortress 2. Kind of boring life but I have been spending about 3 hours a day looking for a job and filling out apps.



Hey all,

Nothing heard from CSC- I did just mail them a photocopy of my new driver's liscense and SS card (with married name) to add to my file, so perhaps some employee of the month will just decide to do my file while s/he has it in hand... oh, that'd be nice.

First off, I feel for you trying to find a job! The market is really bad right now. I've been looking since May 21st when I got back to the states, and I've only just now accepted a position. I was spending dizzying hours on HotJobs, Monster, Careerbuilder.... nothing.... i was even thinking outside the box, too! I'm a social worker, and was looking at all sorts of strange positions... trying to convince myself that I might be qualified... no wonder I didn't receive a call back! But the world works in a strange way, because I'm starting a new job on Monday... and the only reason I knew about the job was because my dad (I feel so 16!- I'm even living at home during immigration process to save money!!) gave my resume to his boss, who then had dinner with the director of our local mental health center, who then called me for an unadvertised, new position. Strange, eh? Hours and hours and hours of searching, too many cover letters later, and it turned out the job just landed in my lap. Well, I went on and on about that... I guess my point was, good luck, think outside the box, don't feel dejected if it takes a long time (lots of folks in your same uncertain boat), and something will happen for ya!

Does anyone know of a great international calling company/card? I'm in a card nightmare... I'm spending way too much money, and I generally have to try to connect about a dozen times before it reaches my husband. I recently joined Skype (which is awesome!), but the call rate to Albania cell is still .23. Any suggestions?

If anyone in this thread has any insight/advice on military responsibilities in other countries, and how that might impact immigrant visa, please look for my post on the main forum that I will do tomorrow... I'm kind of freaking out about it.

To get my mind off the stress of missing my husband, I drove to my old stomping ground, Madison WI today! I spent 7 years in college there... first time back since leaving the country, travelling, getting married, etc. Very strange. Also, I've recently become addicted to Travel Channel's Anthony Bordain... And I'm teaching myself how to cook. That's my troubling life until the joys of 70 hr work weeks kick in next week.

(I feel a little stupid even asking this, because I feel like I should just know.... but how do you automatically have your timeline appear at the bottom of your message??? I can't figure it out for the life of me.

Hope everyone is hanging in there!
Lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-07-23 22:15:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresJune Filers!
Hi All,

I've been away from VJ for a few weeks, and am glad to have found this thread! CSC received my I-130 on 6/4/08, with a Notice Date of 6/9/08. Nothing yet, although that's expected at this point. Although I have to say........ I haven't seen my husband since May 21st, and since I mailed this petition, it feels like a damn year has passed. I just hope this all goes fast and smooth...

I love the thought of my husband having his Visa in hand by January! Oh god, that'd be wonderful. Not to take it down to a depressing place, but I've already convinced myself that it will be at least until next April or May until he gets his Visa. I looks as if the CR-1 is approx 8-9 mo's on avg., so if things go faster than that, well, then I'll just... I don't even know what I'd do, but I'm sure it would involve some champaign, and we'll be so happy.

I finally found a job, and accepted it. This means, however, that I wont be able to visit my husband for another 5 mo's or so (I'm hoping for possibly a week in November, or two around X-Mas). New employee, no time off, rat race, etc etc... 7 mo's apart. I feel like total hell. I sometimes want to tell perfect strangers to not take for granted the fact that they get to wake up with their partner every morning.... ahh...
I look forward to hopefully feeling less alone with all this nonsence from my fellow June filers.....

I mean, really, this process is just ridiculous.

Anyways, glad you all are here!
Lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-07-21 00:19:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresSend Choice of Agent Now?
QUOTE (Pappu1980 @ Oct 4 2008, 10:58 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Lindsay,

Most of time NVC is much faster at issuing DS3032 after NOA-2. Therefore, I think it is safe to assume that NVC will issue DS-3032 after 4-5 days. If you send e-mail then it still takes about 4-5 days to send response back. You can still take a risk and send an e-mail. However, just few months ago someone from this forum sent and e-mail and got rejection e-mail after few days. I assume if this type of e-mail might increase workload of NVC then they might start rejecting e-mail (just wild guess).

I got my DS-3032 generated on 10/02/2008 and I NVC assigned case on 09/29/2008. You and I have exactly one day differerce of NVC case assignment. You can talk to live operator on monday and possibly hear good news. yes.gif


Thanks for the response! I will check tomorrow with live rep. My husband will send DS-3032 from his hotmail account- hope it works.
lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-10-05 11:00:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresSend Choice of Agent Now?
I read that too, I just wasn't sure if I was waiting when I didn't have to.

I'll call NVC on Monday and see if the operator will tell me if it's been generated yet. The operator also told me that "We don't have IIN information". Perhaps I'll get ambitious with this also! kicking.gif

Thanks for your reply.

lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-10-04 19:35:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresSend Choice of Agent Now?
Hi all,

My I-130 was approved on 9/17/08, and after a frustrating few days of waiting while they corrected their mistake of typing my birthdate in wrong, I got my case number from a live rep on 10/2/08. The automated system still says my case has never been received (I understand this is fairly common). The rep just told me I have to wait for the mail for the next step. Question: should I have my husband send via email the choice of agent now? Is it safe to assume it's generated if I have my case number?

Thanks!
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-10-04 18:25:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAddress for AOS mailing?
QUOTE (nimche @ Oct 11 2008, 03:36 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Lindsay G @ Oct 11 2008, 10:46 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Shpat_Argjira @ Oct 11 2008, 11:19 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
http://www.visajourn...64_Cover_letter


Thanks, Shpat, for responding! I sent it off-thank god, one more step completed!

You speak Albanian? My husband tries to teach me, but the sounds are so different, it's very difficult for me to pronouce the words correctly. I do know... zemra, zemra jeme, te dua, shpirt, zoti, nana, babo, lope, gomar, stas, gezuar, noten amir, mir poshem... =) basics!

Anyways, thanks for helping.
lindsay


Shpat is Multi-Langs expert.


Wait, whoa, just saw your signature... what do you mean the embassy is reviewing 2000 applications?! Are you freakin' kidding me? How long is that going to take for you to get an interview?!?!!!
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-10-11 19:09:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAddress for AOS mailing?
QUOTE (Shpat_Argjira @ Oct 11 2008, 11:19 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
http://www.visajourn...64_Cover_letter


Thanks, Shpat, for responding! I sent it off-thank god, one more step completed!

You speak Albanian? My husband tries to teach me, but the sounds are so different, it's very difficult for me to pronouce the words correctly. I do know... zemra, zemra jeme, te dua, shpirt, zoti, nana, babo, lope, gomar, stas, gezuar, noten amir, mir poshem... =) basics!

Anyways, thanks for helping.
lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-10-11 12:46:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAddress for AOS mailing?
Help! I was just about to go mail my AOS, and I noticed that the cover sheet generated upon payment says to send to:
National Visa Center
Attn. CMR-AOS
32 Rochester Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801-2909

But the envelope provided in the packet I received has this address (note the zip code difference)
Attn: CMR
National Visa Center
32 Rochester Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801-2901

What's up with this? Do you think I should change the end zip code on the envelope and send to the one provided for on the printed Cover Sheet? I hesitate to do this, as there's a bar code on the envelope. Please offer advice asap.

Thank you!
Lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-10-11 11:57:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHow do YOU cope?
QUOTE (martiniolive @ Oct 11 2008, 06:13 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I am not patient with these things but there isn nothing to do but be patient so it is HARD on me. The toughest time for me is after work hours until I meet my husband online each night. I look forward all day till that time. I am sure I have aged alot this year but I would be so much sadder without him so patient I must stay. I try to stay busy working 6 days a week and sunday seems soooooo long! Sleep as much as you are able to pass the time. Try to remember to eat nutritional food and not comfort food. Remember that where ever I am and whatever I do I am half of us and that comforts me. And as sappy as it seems....remember that somewhere in the world the air is touching you both at the same time and breathe heart.gif


"We might cry today, but we'll smile tomorrow"- Edi (husband)

I wish I could see him everyday on the computer (so does my bank account! I'm spending sooo much money on twice daily phone calls, and it's not feasible for him to call me, as it costs about $3/minute for him to call me!). We do get to see each other on Saturdays and Sundays, when I kill him at tic-tac-toe good.gif
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-10-11 19:22:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHow do YOU cope?
My husband and I handle it in different ways. As others have offered, what keeps me stable is everyday, in almost everything I do, I envision us together. When I drive to work, I look at the neighborhoods, and envision us buying our first home together. Literally, I envision us getting the keys, decorating, relaxing. I envision us grocery shopping together, and I feel his arms around me when I watch a movie. When I'm sad, I close my eyes, and think about a perfect moment we'll have in the future. It's funny, but these thoughts are ALWAYS of ordinary, day-to-day things, that are taken for granted. My favorite, is envisioning us waking up on a Saturday, him dragging me out of bed (he's a disturbingly happy person in the morning- kinda irks me!), and drinking coffee together while we read the newspaper. It's almost as if in doing these things to help me smile, I'm inserting him into my daily life, and he feels closer to me. This time apart is #######, but we have so many wonderful, simple things to look forward to.

My husband, well that's a different story! He doesn't cope as well as I do. He becomes very sad, and it's difficult to cheer him up. And I think one of the main reasons why he is not coping as well as I is because he does not find it natural to envision our future time together. He lives in the here and now, and for him, he's consumed with grief because "I can't have you in my arms now". I think it's also perhaps a cultural thing for him, to live in the present. Every time we talk, (twice a day), I go through a future scenario, trying to instill more hope in him. Sometimes it works, sometimes not. What makes him feel better is me being present for him- affirmation of my present love, assurance.

I don't know if any of that was advice, but it's how my husband and I do it. It's pretty crummy, and I remember the first month or so I was away from him, I wrote a similar post that you just did. I asked if the pain was going to become easier. My experience, is Yes and No. Some days I'm ok- i'm content with talking and thinking about the future. Some days, I'm just plain not ok. But over the last 5 months since I've seen him, it hasn't gotton ridiculously worse. I get to see him in 5 weeks, and compared with the last 5 months since we've been apart, that seems totally manageable.

And while the time apart is really, really challenging, I truly believe that our relationship will be better for it. Time apart forces you to communicate on a different level; it forces you truly listen to each other, because unless you like to hang up on your spouse, you're forced to work through any conflict or misunderstanding in a direct way. Words become more important. And, I believe most importantly, time apart allows you to have the opportunity to not take for granted time spent together, even the small, seemingly mundane events. I want to strangle my brother sometimes when he gripes about his girlfriend or says, "we're doing nothing. I'm bored. Just watching a movie". I CAN'T WAIT to "just" watch a movie with Edi! So, the time apart can be viewed as a gift, I suppose (Even though the gift would happily be returned if given the opportunity!) wacko.gif

So, good luck with this journey you just started, and take the positives from it that you can, and do everything you can to not let the negative consume you.
lindsay kicking.gif
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-10-11 18:43:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAbout i-864 :(
QUOTE (yasser ezz @ Oct 17 2008, 07:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
--- Ok I am confused.... If my wife makes 125% of the poverty line. Does she need to send the last 3 years of taxs. She files alone last year so her tax papers say 19,900 annual... She made over 125% for two ppl last year. But now we are married and i dont know if this well play a big factor on our visa. She makes 30,000 a year now. What do we do? So confused about all these support things.


Only the most recent tax year information is required, however, she has the option to send the last 3 years, if she feels those years will also help demonstrate her ability to meet guidelines. $19,900 annual does, as you said, meet the requirement for a household of two- if it's just you two, you should be fine with that. Make sure she includes an original letter from her employer stating her current salary. Read guides here, and she'll be fine.
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-10-17 20:35:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAffidavit of Support
QUOTE (rmncm @ Nov 1 2008, 10:23 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
That might be good for some people to know. I would like to add that I also did not meet the poverty line either. Infact my last 3 years sucked due to injuries, 3 years combined I made less then 33,000 bucks. I started a new job 2 weeks before I sent off the AOS package and all I sent in was a copy of one check (for one week), a letter from my employer and a letter from me explaining my situation. In my case I needed to show $36,500 in income based on my family size. It also got approved with far less information then you supplied Lindsay. At the embassy they didnt even ask my wife anything about my income, say anything about needing more income based on my wife being pregant. I think that all people really need to show is that when they send off the AOS that their current rate of pay is enouff to support the family.

Lindsay your almost done finally!


Rmncm,

I'm so glad to see that you are finally done, and that your wife is on her way (not to mention your baby!!)! I remember when we started this journey together, in the june thread. Congrats on your fairly speedy process!

I'm so happy we're almost done to. I'm just waiting for my husband's DS230 and docs to get to me in the mail. Hopefully in a week or so I can mail that package off, then wait time for interview. I'm travelling to see him in 3 WEEKS! from the 21st-30th, and we're so excited. It's been a long 5 months since we've seen each other.

Anyways, congrats on your incoming arrival, and I wish all the best for you and your new family.
Lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-11-01 11:41:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAffidavit of Support
Hi all,

I wanted to share my process with AOS in case it may help a few of you.

Background: 2007 I didn't make the 125% poverty level, because I was a grad student. I started a job on July 28th, 2008 with a salary of about $36,000/yr, which is of course above the minimum. I was worried that I would have to get a co-sponsor because of 2007 (and 2006,2005 weren't much better). I decided not to, and sent in all info required for AOS, but also included a detailed letter outlining my eduation and the reasons why I did not meet the 125% in 2007, an employer letter, original pay stubs, and for good measure I also included a sealed transcipt so they could verify my education. It must have been accepted, because I got a letter in the mail stating I could send in the DS230 anytime, and that they have processed the AOS.

I'm glad I didn't just go ahead and get a co-sponsor, as it's best to not have to create legally binding agreements if it is not necessary.

I hope this helps someone in my similar circumstance.

Lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-11-01 11:09:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPolice Clearance Help
QUOTE (mkg265 @ Oct 15 2008, 12:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My husband worked two years in Italy also undocumented, lavoro nero.
His family lives in Florence and his sister went down to the police station to ask about the form and they said it would only take a day when needed. Your husband NEVER registered with the police? Even though my husband's visa was only for a few months, he had to registrar...he just didn't leave when he said he would. I had to registrar to live in Italy (at the post office) for six months but I left before my police interview date. They let me live, work, and study in the country for six months without an interview.
His brother will know if he NEVER registered or just never turned up for the 2nd police meeting and worked on a "false" visa i.e. a visa for a medical visit or tourist visa.

Oh shady Albanians...


He never had a visa for italy, so there's absolutely nothing in their system (except for his passport stamp I'm sure when we left). He spoke with a lawyer in albania, and my husband sent the request letter to his brother, who is going next week to get the certificate. So... did your husband then get the certificate? Any problems? Any problems with american consulate because of it?
lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-10-17 20:06:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPolice Clearance Help
QUOTE (Lindsay G @ Oct 11 2008, 05:15 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Karin und Otto @ Oct 11 2008, 03:44 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Lindsay G @ Oct 11 2008, 03:11 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi all,

My husband lived undocumented in Italy for about 2 yrs.


Was he working? going to school?


Thanks for all your help. I emailed the Procura with questions. He was working in Italy, and living with his family, who are all legal in Italy. I was so hoping this would all go smoothly... hopefully we'll get through this soon. Thanks for all your help. If you have any more advice or similar situations, please write me.
lindsay


Oh... I don't expect anything to say that he even existed. I just expect a report to say that there is nothing in the system, as there isn't.
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-10-11 18:17:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPolice Clearance Help
QUOTE (Karin und Otto @ Oct 11 2008, 03:44 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Lindsay G @ Oct 11 2008, 03:11 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi all,

My husband lived undocumented in Italy for about 2 yrs.


Was he working? going to school?


Thanks for all your help. I emailed the Procura with questions. He was working in Italy, and living with his family, who are all legal in Italy. I was so hoping this would all go smoothly... hopefully we'll get through this soon. Thanks for all your help. If you have any more advice or similar situations, please write me.
lindsay
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-10-11 18:15:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPolice Clearance Help
QUOTE (brnidokiegurl @ Oct 11 2008, 03:18 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Here when we send people to get record checks (i work for government agency) to up date their arrest record the(local city county) agency will look if they find nothing they usually give a paper that says persons arrest records were check between X time to x time and no records were found, guess thats not really telling you anything new but cant they just issue the same type statement


You would think they would just issue the same type of statement, I'm just getting the impression they don't want to. I'm not sure how well his brother is explaining the situation, but it seems to be really straight forward. They should just be able to run his name with dates, and generate a report that says nothing. Done. Simple. Perhaps if he went and didn't say that he was undocumented, maybe they would run for him- they might just not want to help because he was undocumented.
Lindsay GFemaleAlbania2008-10-11 16:23:00