ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
ThailandThailand Thread
You could be correct rsn. I may have to quit cold turkey. We are going to visit friends in Pattaya soon though. They may know where I can locate some swedish "almost" chewing tobacco.

We'll see.

On the bright side... we'll be going to Koh Larn island.

If it's going to be sweltering hot, where else to be than right there near the beach right? Man do I like this place!
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-02-10 00:35:00
ThailandThailand Thread
It would seem that I did not plan accordingly. I did not bring enough chewing tobacco with me.

My question is:

Would it be legal to ask my brother to FedEx me a couple rolls of Copenhagen Long Cut tobacco (10 cans). It's not for resale but for personal use.

Is this possible?

I've been scouring the internet trying to locate any shops that might offer something. There are a few "maybes" in Pattaya but that's about it.

Anybody have this done? Using FedEx to have tobacco shipped to you in Thailand? If so, what precautions did you take?

If it's not possible... what's my next option, aside from cold turkey?

Thanks in advance.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-02-09 22:41:00
ThailandThailand Thread

Nice Kimo, I went to Rayong about this time last year. Did you go to Koh Samet?

I liked going and buying seafood when the boats come in to the dock and then taking it to one of the little shacks by the beach for a nice breakfast.

Yep. Went to Koh Samet and a few of the other islands around there. Next up is Chang island. Going to spend a week or so unwinding before we head to get the police certification and see about the medical exam.

I still can't get over the food. I've had to keep a little diary (should have done this the first time) of the food I like.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-02-08 01:37:00
ThailandThailand Thread
Sawasdee krub from Rayong! :dance:

This is exactly what we both needed to ease the tension. Get away from the nonsense whilest we wait for the NVC to do their thing and forward the package to the Embassy.

Even though I need the exercise... I wish I could have brought my motorcycle.

And the food! If there were shops like this back home... walking distance from my house, I'd be in BIG trouble!

Mandatory photo.
Posted Image
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-02-07 02:18:00
ThailandThailand Thread
Is there a time window for the medical and police certificate for Thai filers? ie: not before the consulate gets the package? No sooner than 2 weeks before interview? etc.

I am about to fly out and we JUST got our NOA-2. Could I take the NOA-2 and get the police cert for my fiancee?

What about the medical? Is there a form the consulate sends her for that or can that be done at certain medical offices regardless?
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-02-01 00:18:00
ThailandThailand Thread
I went through Expedia (just as the first trip).

I am flying out of Colorado Springs CO and arriving in BKK. The total cost out the door was 1265 for the round trip using Delta.

I played around with the dates, which is how I found the lower fare. I wanted to leave on the 1st of February but that was 1600. Leaving two days later saves me over 300$.

The only thing I need to secure now... are some good sleep aides. I'm not of the ideal travel size. At 6'3" tall and 245lbs... it's hard to be totally comfortable in those seats for a 10hr flight.

I'm hoping this and the last trip will add up with the rewards points so that next time I can get the two round trip tickets without breaking bank.

3 weeks in Thailand w/ my lady FTW!
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-28 21:36:00
ThailandThailand Thread
Even though I haven't heard from CSC yet and we're past our 5 month mark (filed service request today), I went ahead and purchased my tickets for Thailand. I really want to see her.

Dropping back to an earlier conversation... is $1265.00 a good price for round trip tickets to BKK? I'm flying out of CO.

Not that I can change it now (dates were not dynamic right now)... I'd like to know for future visits. I have to fly back out when her visa is approved to bring her home and we'll be visiting Thailand after that because she has family there and I like Thailand.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-27 19:43:00
ThailandThailand Thread
After some searching, it appears it is easier to ensure the same flight and easier on the bank account to just book two round trip tickets to start with.

This route... I can have two seats side by side for a some-what comfy ride to Thailand since I'm not the size person they used to design the seating and on the return flight... I KNOW we're seated together!
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-09 22:03:00
ThailandThailand Thread
I'm back with yet another question.

So it's rather easy to locate a round trip (or even one way) FROM the US to Thailand. I usually go to Expedia or even Travelocity.

I decided to do a little recon for the time when she would have her visa in hand and can accompany me back to the US.

On the above mentioned sites (and others alike) I am having difficulty finding a round trip ticket (for me) and a one way FROM Thailand to the states for my fiancee.

Are there other sites I should be checking here... or when the time comes, should I just pony up the dough for TWO round trip tickets so as to guarantee that we are on the same flight, seated together?

You guys are awesome BTW! Wish I would have found this site BEFORE I filed.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-07 20:46:00
ThailandThailand Thread
Thanks for the information guys.

I am on LinkedIn. I'll check into that, thanks.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-07 14:47:00
ThailandThailand Thread
Got a question for the Thai regulars.

How hard is it for Americans to locate long term employment opportunities in Thailand?

I don't speak Thai now... but I am working with the Rosetta Stone and would gladly amp that up if it would help or seal the deal on a job opp.

Give a little back ground. I'm a power plant operator by trade and it's what I've been doing for the last decade.

I am also an information technology specialist for the Army Reserve (4 years). I am closing in on completing my degree in computer systems security at a well known college in my state.

I would love to spend some time working in Thailand and completely immersing myself in the culture and the land (with my fiancee of course).

Is this a "just forget about it" idea? I don't want to be an English teacher either... cause I've always had problems with those courses myself! HaHA.

Thanks for any input.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-07 01:43:00
ChinaApproved!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Congrats Chinausa.

Can I ask when you filed and which office you filed with?
Kimo3MaleThailand2010-12-04 02:30:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionIncome Tax Return Question
Great info!

Another question without posting a new topic, sorry.

I made well above the poverty guide lines for 2010, BUT... I might owe the IRS a little bit. How does this effect the process?
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-02-02 01:04:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionI-134 Question

If your income qualifies then the bank info isn't needed.

So if we make well above the poverty line, the only thing they will need is the last years income tax return filed?
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-03-01 18:00:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsMerry Christmas
Appreciate the kind words and return them with the same intention.

I haven't seen my fiancee in 9 months now. It has been 5 since we filed. I'm going to fly back out to see her in January but I was hoping I could bring her the good news of an approved Visa.

I hope we all find the courage to stay positive!
Kimo3MaleThailand2010-12-25 00:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports7 Months! Still no word at all...
Not quiet the same sized boat here... but getting there. One thing is for sure: This frustration and waiting game is strengthening the relationship I have with my fiancee. I can't quite explain it, but it is! I will be seeing her again soon and all I can say is... she's going to have to tell me to let go of her at the airport!

I was told to wait till the 28th and call back. This I will do and since looking over the ISO post from another thread, I will be politely escalating to that level. If not, I will take a trip to the Denver office where I was told I could speak to a representative without an appointment (Vet).

As always, when that day comes... I will post the results and progress for other VJ members in hopes that my struggles help.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-21 21:34:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsHow do you cope?
It's already been said that communication is key!

At one point, both of us were simply going through the same old grind, day in day out just waiting for the word. This is un-healthy.

We decided that we BOTH need to get out, have some fun with friends and live life during this! We talk EVERY NIGHT about life. Not only what's been going with both of us but what we're planning for when we are together again.

Don't forget to LAUGH! The topic of USCIS dragging their feet is going to come up... but there is too much about life to smile about (you're in LOVE right?) to let the entire conversation be depressing. I know hearing her laugh puts a smile on my face. How about you?

I know it's not always possible for people, but I picked up a second job the moment I got home after meeting her. I knew immediately I was going to be traveling to see her in Thailand and that it wouldn't be cheap. I keep these funds aside so I can secure my tickets AND spoil her from time to time with surprises. Like the valentines day gift... was PRICELESS! She was un-prepared and it shows in the picture they took of her. She's a little shy.. but I LOVE IT!

Sorry. didn't mean to ramble like that. Just hoping to present my idea.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-21 21:47:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsNOA2...Finally!!!!!!!!!!!
When did you call?

You're signature says you called and got higher customer service and was told about the RFE.

Were you not notified by mail or email of the RFE? Were you only notified during the phone call? What was the time difference?

Congratulations BTW! 6 Months is a long wait for good news. I'm getting close to that and I haven't gotten any word at all. They'll be called at the end of this week though.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-24 20:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsNoa2 email from Vermont
Nice! Glad to hear it!

Don't forget to post updates as you move forward. The more VJ members know about the process (even after the long wait for NOA-2) the better. I don't think any two situations are alike, so the more people who explain their journey... the better IMHO.

Here's (beer emoticon here) to a swift transition from NOA-2 to visa in hand for you loved one!
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-26 21:00:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAugust 2010 CSC Filers!
Nice! Glad they were able to give you your NVC case number over the phone. I kept calling the automated line to hear that my packet was not received.

When I got home though... I had a letter waiting that said not only had they received the packet, but had already forwarded it to the embassy. The problem is... my fiancee's address is tough for them to find so she has not yet received her packet 3. I'm hoping this is something the lawyer can put together, as she is going to be helping her fill it out anyway.

My fiancee goes to Bangkok on the 3rd to get the medical done and hopefully the police certificate (crosses fingers).

Good luck!
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-03-01 17:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAugust 2010 CSC Filers!

This is the year that we will all be reunited with our loved ones.

I believe this! Good luck to all in their endeavor!

I called and woke my fiancee up with the good news about the petition approval. She was groggy at first... till I told her it was approved. Talk about waking up at a high rate of speed! She must have done a back-flip out of her bed.

That and I informed her I purchased the tickets to Thailand to fly out on the 3rd of February and stay 3 weeks. The excitement in her voice put me on top of the world!
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-02-01 00:06:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAugust 2010 CSC Filers!
Thank you thank you.

Something to remember when you're calling: Every representative is different. Some will help, others are a sham.

If you're having difficulty with one particular tier 1... be polite and call right back 5 minutes later. Different representative this time.

Both times I had tier 1. Both times they were helpful and polite. The second time she was more than willing to file the service request and for some odd reason... it was already approved. She couldn't find this information but it was updated on the USCIS website in a about an hour after the service request. You got me on that one though... it's confusing.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-28 20:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAugust 2010 CSC Filers!
UPDATE:

After Nate's post, I figured I would log into the USCIS site and update to receive text updates.

AND....

The case had been touched... TODAY.

I click on the receipt number to look out of sheer curiosity and BAM! I-129F APPROVED! Mailed out today (yeah... okay :rofl: )

So the service calls actually work! For those getting close to or beyond their 5 month mark, CALL THEM!
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-27 20:00:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAugust 2010 CSC Filers!
So I called today. It's been 21 days PAST the 5 month mark. I spoke with a tier 1 representative so she couldn't give me ANY information regarding specifics of my petition. No problem because all I wanted was a service request to be put in to the CSC.

This young lady was very polite and even though she couldn't give me certain answers... she was easy to work with. She WAS able to file a service request for me though because I am well past the 5 month mark. So while I don't have anything concrete... I feel better that I was able to at the very least get a service request in.

No information on what dates CSC is processing though. She was reading from her script so all I got was the "if you don't hear from them in 30 days, call back."

I will be calling back Monday and every other work day after that until I get some solid information regarding my petition.

The stories given above give me hope though and I'm confident I will see something by Monday.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-27 19:33:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAugust 2010 CSC Filers!

Ok guys, today is our 5 month mark. Fingers crossed for something by the end of the day... but I want to know, What's the most effective way to get through to the USCIS and get some sort of response and information? Any tips would be appreciated. Also, do I have to wait until tomorrow, since then it'll be 'past' 5 months, or would they be able to inform me of anything today, as it is 5 months right now. I want my NoA2!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm hoping to find out Friday.

I called the day OF my 5 month mark and the representative told me I could NOT file a service request. The CSC was asking for 21 more days added to the normal waiting period.

So I have patiently waited that 21 days (NOA-1 on 6th of August). I will be moving up to tier 2 when I call Friday. I'd REALLY like to know now because on the 1st of February I fly back out to Thailand to be with her for 3 weeks.

Since they don't keep up on their website, I would have to call them everyday while I was in Thailand to ensure I don't miss anything.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-26 20:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAugust 2010 CSC Filers!
Nice! Glad to see it!

I'm hoping to see ours next week. I was told to call back on the 28th which is 21 days after the 5 month mark. I hope I don't have to make that call. I'm flying back out in early February to be with her.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-22 23:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAugust 2010 CSC Filers!
Congratulations to those who've finally received theirs! :D

We're at 5 months, 2 weeks and counting. :(

I still don't understand why they would tell me they need another 21 days added to the normal processing time though. It's rather depressing.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-21 00:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAugust 2010 CSC Filers!
I had placed a call on the 6th of January to file a service call but could not. They are asking for 21 more days in the normal processing times. I did however have to make an adjustment to the NOA-1 form that was sent to me. They had my birthday wrong on the form.

This didn't worry me too much because I sent them all the documents they would need to get it right... such as birth cert, passport and other forms. I asked the representative to correct them.

She told me on the phone that I would be mailed a corrected NOA-1 but the dates would not change.

Soooo... I check the mail today and I see a letter from the USCIS. I get all kinds of excited.

I open it up and it is in fact this new NOA-1. With a priority date of 2010-08-03 (Aug 3, 2010).

I will give them to the end of the week. Then I will call and work my way to tier 2.

Anybody fortunate enough to be approved today? If so... congratulations!
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-19 22:33:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAugust 2010 CSC Filers!
I attempted to check a few minutes ago with no success.

I might be calling them tomorrow. My patience is wearing thin at a rapid pace.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-18 20:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAugust 2010 CSC Filers!
Has anybody else called the CSC and gotten this response?

~"The CSC is requesting 21 more days to process your petition."

Should I call again and try to file a service call since we're past our 5 month mark?

Is this an odd response or some kind of diversion they would typically hand out to shut somebody up?
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-12 00:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAugust 2010 CSC Filers!
Since today was the 5 month mark, I figured I call to see if maybe... just maybe a service request would help out. Can't hurt right?

The lady was very friendly and informative. While she does not know why... she was told (computer) that the CSC is asking for another 21 days ADDED TO the normal processing time.

So I was unable to file a service request and will not be able to until the 27th of January. Sunnuva *****!

She told me about the expedite but I don't fit the criteria because I'm not currently in line for a deployment.

HOWEVER... There was a mistake on the NOA-1 receipt. There was a typo with my birthday so I informed her of that and she was able to push that service request through and assured me it would not delay the process. Maybe... just maybe that will get the ball rolling if it isn't currently being worked on.

21 Days? Seriously? ####### over?
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-06 18:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAugust 2010 CSC Filers!
Thank you for the encouragement! I appreciate it.

It's the kind words from fellow visa-journey members that have helped me keep my cool.

Tomorrow I get to call and do a service request or whatever it's called. Maybe that will generate something. I go to Thailand in February and I'd LOVE to take her the good news. She's ready to come to her new home and we're both ready to start a family!

Hope all goes well and swift for you too my friend!
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-05 22:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAugust 2010 CSC Filers!
My NOA-1 date was August 6th and I still see nothing on the USCIS website nor have I received an email or USPS notification.

This is dis-heartening.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-05 21:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresUSCIS Status
I'm rather glad this was posted.

The USCIS received our I-29F on August 6th this year and the USCIS site has no updates. The website doesn't even show that it's been touched yet, which is supposed to be updated every time it's handled.

I'm hoping for a fast turn around here since I'm going back to see her in January of 2011 for a couple of weeks. It would be nice If I could purchase her one way tickets home with me while I'm in Thailand with her.
Kimo3MaleThailand2010-12-02 22:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNOA2 Finally Approved!
Congratulations Bryenna!

Egg and Andy: Your news is encouraging. My NOA-1 was received on August 9th at the CSC. My GF and I are getting anxious. I fly back out to Rayong to see her in January. I would LOVE to bring her the good news!
Kimo3MaleThailand2010-12-11 20:57:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAttorney or No Attorney ?!
I did and I have yet to see the fru
Do the research ad ask about he proper layout of the packet. Submit the packet in the proper form and use this forum to ask for advice. You'll get the advice you need.

If I had discovered this forum BEFORE I filed for K1 visa, I would have NOT hired a lawyer.

The only advantage is that they offer counseling BEFORE the interview at he Bangkok consulate when the K1 is approved. They will help my Fiancee answer the questions properly so we can be together.

We will see if it proves to be worth while. I will post on here if it is and which firm I went through.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-01 02:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresquestions I couldn't find anwers to
What was the I-129F fee before? I paid more than 340.

Also, the visa fee is the I-90 right?
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-02 02:12:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNOA2
If / when you do call them back, please report back with the conversation and details, or send me a PM. I'm interested to know.

We're about to pass our 5 month mark and I plan on calling to file a service request first. I will more than likely make a second service request as well before contacting my congressman.

What I keep telling myself is... to be polite, respectful and DO NOT lose my cool. While I'm not happy (among many) that it has taken this long, they are after all in control of the situation.


GL
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-03 20:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresEvidence... your opinion plz.
I will check into all of the above! Thanks!

*On the phone with her right now!* :)
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-10 01:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresEvidence... your opinion plz.
Guess I'll get busy writing emails to her just to be safe. I've made sure that we're both comfortable with the type of questions they will ask her at the interview.

I will also see if I can pull up the phone records from my cell phone company that show I called that calling card number and see if the calling card company keeps track (records) of the number I dialed from their service.

I doubt very seriously I can (or anybody could) afford to direct dial their fiancee in Thailand EVERY day. That bill would astronomical!

I will also remember to keep ALL receipts when I return in February and take plenty of face shots of the two of us together as well as with her family (didn't think of that the first time) to show that this is serious for the both of us.

Thank you for all the advice, warnings and encouragement. Hopefully the first step comes soon with the NOA-2 from CSC. I'm ready to move forward with our life together.
Kimo3MaleThailand2011-01-09 21:55:00