ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (uscandual @ Apr 30 2009, 07:35 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I agree as well. Especially the last bit about money transfer evidence. I'm not transferring money to Thailand. But if I were, I don't think I'd be flaunting it at the interview.

I do have one question, open to the crowd for comment:


We had our Buddhist ceremony in Sept, and did NOT register at Amphur. I fully believe this to be 100% consistent with a K-1 fiance filing. We are NOT married. We will get married in the US within 90 days of POE.

However.

I've been telling Thanti that at the interview, she should not wear her ring (we got matching gold bands for the Buddhist ceremony). She should come with pictures of the ceremony as part of the Evidence of Relationship, but not present them. Keep them to herself. And not volunteer or offer any information about the ceremony. Only if asked about it ("Did you have a marriage ceremony in Thailand?") should she answer "Yes, a Buddhist ceremony but not registered at Amphur", and then present the pictures. Otherwise, don't even bring the subject up at all.

Am I being paranoid? Am I making too big a deal out of nothing? Should we just flaunt it, and proudly present our lovely ceremony pictures at the top of the stack we hand over?

In terms of the Buddhist ceremony, it kind of goes hand in hand with the money issue. Both can be misconstrued.

I had wired money to Chutima for an apartment she got in Nontaburi, so we would have a place to stay when I traveled there, and we also had a ceremony at her sister's house. I didn't show any of the pictures from that ceremony, and didn't present copies of the Western Union money transfer at the interview. She did however, have both an engagement ring and a wedding band, and I too had a wedding band. At the time of her interview, I was allowed to attend and stand at the window with her. She only wore her engagement ring, and neither one of us wore our wedding bands. We also removed our wedding bands when we arrived at our POE of Honolulu, and once again, she left her engagement ring on.

There has been a lot of discussion on both of these issues, and the general consensus is not to present either as evidence. You should have plenty of other evidence to provide, that won't raise questions concerning either being married, or your fiancée just looking for a "sugar daddy" a.k.a. Green Card.

Edited by roi_aggie, 30 April 2009 - 06:56 PM.

*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-30 18:53:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (uscandual @ Apr 30 2009, 06:29 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Don't be too hard on Chada regarding this stuff.... I think all of our gals in Thailand are doing an amazing thing, in simply agreeing to uproot themselves and start all over in the US. Dealing with all the ####### of the visa filing on their end, on their own is not easy.


And again, totally agree with Ron 100% good.gif
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-30 17:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (ThaitoUSA @ Apr 30 2009, 06:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
As specified in Packet 3

The I-134 Affidavit of Support should include the following:

1) The most recent year's (2008) complete tax return and/or transcript
2) A letter on company stationary stating the employee's status and annual salary
3) A copy of the Petitioner's passport (we sent just the photo and bio pages)

There is no mention of bank account or any other financial disclosure. If you are close to 125% of the poverty line (about $18,000 for a household of two) you may consider disclosing some other assets, otherwise it's unnecessary.

Edit: I would strongly advise against money transfers. It could always be misconstrued, regardless of any honest explanation. Paying for a green card, or something of the like could always be assumed with such evidence. I trust in the other forms of evidence more than this.


Totally agree with Pete 100% on all counts. good.gif
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-30 17:25:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Apr 30 2009, 12:34 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE
If I can "figure him out" then it may be easier but I have a feeling his personality is one of conflict....not impressed until a conflict is won (I need to look into that more) or the undying need to be right regardless of a perfect file. WOuld groveling or bowing help? Given 2 equal cases, they're certainly not handled equally. I'll definitely tell her to dress nice but try to look ugly (since that assistant will more likely than not 1. be prejudice against Isaan, 2. Be catty as hell.


Not everyone in Bangkok is prejudice against Isaan, I would venture to even say the majority are not prejudice against Isaan. There have been a few people recently with fiancee's from Isaan, and were through on the 1st interview.

I would not spend anytime trying to figure out the consular, you will lose sleep and stress you out, over something you have no control of. Best you can hope for is put the packet together properly, have everything you need in it, and she goes in for the interview. After that you will either pass, or have to bring some other things back. This is a fact of life, it sucks, but in the end, I think the majority get approved, just have to jump through that extra hoop.


Well said Aaron! good.gif

I am so sick of hearing the "prejudice against Isaan" #######! Both my best friend, Daw, and my wife, Ooi, are from Isaan, though they both moved away from there in their teens. Neither one of them have ever experienced any kind of "prejudice" because they are Isaan. Both still speak Lao, still have family in Isaan. and Daw. They don't wear provocative clothes, wear any makeup, wear a bunch of gold, and they are always polite and respectful to other Thais, especially ones older than them. I specifically asked Daw if she ever felt any prejudice, due to the fact she has very dark skin because she is always out working in her garden or playing golf, and she said absolutely not. She pointed out she only wears simple clothes, no make-up, treats everyone with respect, and she gets the same respect in return. As a matter of fact, people seem to flock to her, because she has three Thai daughters that all speak English, and strangers love to talk to her and ask questions.So… if someone claims to be treated differently because of where they are from in Thailand, specifically Isaan, they are either fabricating the story, or they are bringing it on themselves for whatever reason, like a chip on their shoulder or bad attitude, and I think most everyone else on here with a SO from Isaan will agree.


*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-30 17:21:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (HYENA @ Apr 28 2009, 04:23 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
senator's office called today said noa2 came-it was approved so far but website shows nothing. Interesting, though. This would be about the time the President got my inquiry and my 5th contact to senators since you get a brick wall trying to find out what's really happening.

I'm just hoping...(and I gotta save some serious cash and fast to get there, get duplicates of all the forms, etc)!


Yeah, I'm pretty sure that when President Obama ready your inquiry, he got right on it! rofl.gif

secret7vf.gif He doesn't read ####### like that! no0pb.gif
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-29 00:18:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (anya-D @ Apr 28 2009, 09:44 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
good luck on trying to put our Thai thread on sticky.. we've been trying that several times since i joined but some how - nothing happened.

I like the seperate threat...

so that when people ask questions about their visa, they dont have to read through all the other un related things or try to find their questions/answers...

and the threat will have too many pages too fast we might need a new one sooner - and all the informations will be easily lost in a pool of other topics.

but I root for sticky.. once again! lol



BTW.. Just notice.. GRATZ roi kicking.gif kicking.gif kicking.gif


Thanks Anya! smile.gif Still waiting for the actuall GC though! whistling.gif

I have to go with you on 2 separate threads, and hope that everyone can differentiate between the two. Too many times I've seen people post visa related questions, and then get buried in non visa related talk, and either not get their question answered, or have to ask it again, or worse yet, go somewhere else to get the answer.
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-28 22:53:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
eb0dfafc.gif whistling.gif
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-25 19:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (uscandual @ Apr 25 2009, 12:59 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Are there any cases in which people actually get denied outright, in legitimate situations? For example, at your current stage of Removing Conditions. I mean - consider a case where a relationship is genuine, all terms and conditions are being met. However for whatever reason - sloppiness on behalf of petitioners in presenting evidence, or surly USCIS officials - they decide to decline the evidence. Can it get as far as busting up a marriage and deporting the non-USC spouse of the country? I know they have the power to deport if they determine the marriage is a sham. But what if they determine it's a sham even it really isn't?

Certainly at the pre K-1 phase such things happen at the consulate and even at USCIS. You can be denied, and that's pretty much that, just because they don't want to believe your evidence of relationship. Sure, you can petition your congressman or whatever, but basically you're screwed if the Consulate outright denies your case. Can a similar thing happen at Removing Conditions to someone who is in the US already? That would be a real nightmare scenario halloween.gif

I haven't read about anyone who got denied. If it is a truly bonafide relationship, then there is really nothing to worry about, Ron. On top of that, even if it were to go to a local office for an interview, and the person doing the interview was unfair and disaproved either AOS or Removing Conditions, you can then take it to an Immigration Judge. Once here in the country, the burden of proof switches to USCIS to prove it is a fraudulent marriage, not the petitioner proving otherwise.

So don't getting all paranoid at this point! girlwerewolf2xn.gif

(If all else fails, refer to Frank's post! laughing.gif )

Edited by roi_aggie, 25 April 2009 - 10:24 AM.

*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-25 10:21:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (Birch-Beer @ Apr 25 2009, 07:11 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
you can always fly to mexico city and walk across the border for free.
#######, I hear its all the rage now..........

headbonk.gif Don't go there! laughing.gif
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-25 10:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Apr 24 2009, 09:24 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (uscandual @ Apr 24 2009, 06:13 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (roi_aggie @ Apr 24 2009, 07:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (uscandual @ Apr 24 2009, 07:54 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
It would be kinda nice to get this show on the road....


Come on Ron... you know you love all the waiting! tongue.gif laughing.gif

Oh, sure! That's why I posted this sappy thing today: http://www.visajourn...h...t&p=2871943

secret7vf.gif A lot more waiting to come, but it's always better when you're waiting "together"! good.gif

That's what I'm figuring.... I mean, even if AOS or removing conditions takes forever, what difference does it make? We're already living our normal lives by that point. I can see AP&EAD being very important since she'll want to work and to travel. Robert, you're further along on this whole Journey thing so perhaps you can shed some light on whether the waiting for post-POE steps of the journey are as difficult as pre-POE.




I sent in my AOS paperwork almost 2 months ago and have yet to hear anything after the NOA's. To be honest though, the waiting is no big deal compared to the K1. So far it seems to be cake for the post-POE other then having to call weekly and talk to people and wonder why everyone else is getting Biometrics dates and we haven't. I am wondering if it is due to the fact that we filed 2 weeks after POE.



Ron, Aaron pretty much summed it up. Getting your SO here is 8/10ths of the difficulty. After that, it's just a case of more waiting and wondering what's going on, and if you will have to interview, or if you will get an RFE, and what it will be for, and gathering them the information they want. Being together makes everything else pale in comparison, but you never like being at the mercy of the USCIS, or wondering what the hell is going on with your case. Nothing is a done deal until you finish each individual step of the process, which then allows you to move on to the next one. Until your spouse is naturalized, its not over. It's just dealing with the uncertainties that can be frustrating.
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-24 23:02:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (uscandual @ Apr 24 2009, 07:54 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
It would be kinda nice to get this show on the road....


Come on Ron... you know you love all the waiting! tongue.gif laughing.gif

secret7vf.gif A lot more waiting to come, but it's always better when you're waiting "together"! good.gif
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-24 19:03:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Apr 24 2009, 07:25 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (roi_aggie @ Apr 24 2009, 04:24 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Apr 24 2009, 07:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I think that is the standard reply of 6-8 weeks for an interview. I highly doubt it will take that long.


Nothing like setting the bar super low, so that it makes their metrics look good if they come in well under that time frame, huh?! laughing.gif


Your a government employee you should know all about this (jab, jab) tongue.gif


laughing.gif

I'm still trying to learn that! My co-workers always kidding me that I haven't become a true civil servant, because I keep completeing my tasks as soon as I get them! laughing.gif (plus they don't want me make them look bad! tongue.gif )
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-24 18:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Apr 24 2009, 07:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I think that is the standard reply of 6-8 weeks for an interview. I highly doubt it will take that long.


Nothing like setting the bar super low, so that it makes their metrics look good if they come in well under that time frame, huh?! laughing.gif
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-24 18:24:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (uscandual @ Apr 24 2009, 04:52 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Here's the latest email we got today from BKK embassy. Not very encouraging news for those of us queuing up to get our interviews scheduled.


The IV Unit received your returned Packet 3 materials through the mail on April 8, 2009. Due to the large volume of applicants, the interview appointment will be scheduled after the IV Unit received the Packet 3 back in 6-8 weeks later. Once your interview date is set, we will notify you by mail.


Congrats... I think? unsure.gif

That's a long a$$ wait!!! blink.gif
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-24 17:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Apr 22 2009, 08:24 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
That is one of the places he won in court. On my next vacation there I am going to get a license. The discounts with a HI license is great. Kind of the same in NV, you get deals places with the local license.


Speaking of NV, I'm trying to decide when the best time would be for me to go there. The launch schedule is quiet for June & July, but after that, I don't know what will happen. I need to take advantage of the lul while I can, plus I don't want to be away when we get into hurricane season, because I want to be here to take care of my house and truck! (Not because I like being here when there's a hurricane bearing down!) We actually got three days off last year because of the hurricanes. (I guess because we don't get snow days! laughing.gif )
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-22 20:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Apr 22 2009, 07:55 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I have a friend that has multiple drivers license from different states (9 to be exact, including 2 foreign countries), and who has successfully argued that the states have no power to take or require him to surrender his out of state licenses, even thought they have laws on the books to the contrary. He is not a lawyer, just has a lot of free time on his hands at one point in his life.


I wish I had known that when I came to FL!!! I hated giving up my Hawaii drivers license, because besides just being cool, if I were to go back to HI for vacation, that DL got me a lot of discounts, especially on golf!!!
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-22 19:02:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Apr 22 2009, 07:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE
But in order for an IDL to be valid, you must also have a valid DL from your home residence. When your DL expires, so does your IDL, until you renew your DL.


I was just typing that, you beat me to it!!


laughing.gif Great minds think alike! biggrin.gif
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-22 18:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (Thai Rath @ Apr 22 2009, 05:10 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE
I've heard that some states only recognize the IDL for tourists and won't if you are here on an immigrant visa or a non-immigrant visa with the intent to immigrate, which is what the K-1 visa is. You may want to search the forums for that info...

This is untrue. They must recognize your DL from another country until you become a permanent resident. I have seen some people state that there is a 1 year rule, however if you look through the Dept of Transportation laws, there is no such regulation.


Aaron, I said they won't recognize the IDL which is different from the DL from another country -- two separate licenses.

And as for the one year rule, here is where the RMV in Massachusetts states it's only valid for one year: http://www.mass.gov/...forms/21317.pdf




But in order for an IDL to be valid, you must also have a valid DL from your home residence. When your DL expires, so does your IDL, until you renew your DL.
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-22 18:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
Since each state is different, everyone needs to do their research for their particular state's requirements. In the case of Florida, they issued both a State ID and DL to my wife, and the expiration dates were not tied to her 2 year GC expiration date.
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-22 08:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (daboyz @ Apr 21 2009, 08:20 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I really had no problems driving in Thailand except for massive traffic in BKK. The only issue I had was everytime I went to use the turn signal I would turn on the windshield wipers. The levers are on opposite sides of the steering column. It still screws me up sometimes now that I am back in the US.

The biggest issue was crossing the street. After almost getting killed by taxis in BKK, I finally learned to look right then left. Now that I am back here the opposite. I have finally re-taught myself to look left again before crossing the street.


I never would drive in Bangkok, as I was never there long enough to want to endanger my life! laughing.gif I did plenty of driving elsewhere in Thailand, but only on a scooter. I miss my scooter in Chiang Mai! cray5ol.gif (bought it back in 2001, a Suzuki Best 110!)

What's fun is driving US vehicles in countries they drive on the left... now that's fun! wacko.gif

I hear ya on crossing the road! blink.gif
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-21 19:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (HYENA @ Apr 21 2009, 08:13 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (ThaitoUSA @ Apr 21 2009, 06:53 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My fiancée drives a big ole pickup truck. However, she's so short she needs to sit on a pillow to see above the steering wheel. The biggest adjustment for me was shifting gears with my left hand.

I can picture that! LOL! I love hearing the stories of what happens once they get here.


secret7vf.gif She's not IN the USA yet... he's referring to Thailand.
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-21 19:47:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (ThaitoUSA @ Apr 21 2009, 06:53 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My fiancée drives a big ole pickup truck. However, she's so short she needs to sit on a pillow to see above the steering wheel. The biggest adjustment for me was shifting gears with my left hand.


laughing.gif

Then she'd like my truck... it has adjustable foot pedals, like in aircraft! good.gif

QUOTE (MarkNAam @ Apr 21 2009, 03:22 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hey Guys,

AAm and I would 100% be up for a vacation to LV. I've been there a few times, but not in about 10 years...so it should be great. I agree with USCandual...we'll drink...they'll spend!

Peace!

MK+JC+AK


You are a right thinking man Mark! good.gif
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-21 18:29:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (roi_aggie @ Apr 20 2009, 08:43 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Apr 19 2009, 09:51 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (roi_aggie @ Apr 19 2009, 06:48 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
If I remember correctly, I went to a place called Royal Thai Restaurant on W Sahara. The food was great, the wait staff was great. Compared to the Thai restaurant in Honolulu, it blew them away.

Maybe Aaron and his wife can stop by and see if it is still up to par? unsure.gif

I would be up for a gathering. It sounds fun!


I just looked up the address, I will have to swing by and check it out. There is another place called Lotus of Siam, that is supposed to be really really good, it has been around for a very long time. We just haven't had a chance to go.


Ooo Ooo... That's the place!!! I was on the wrong side of Sahara! It was Lotus of Siam we went to, and that place is great. I looked at the website and remember the inside. You can pretty much order what you want to. No need to look at the menu!


Here's the website for Lotus of Siam. http://www.saipinchutima.com/ It was the reviews that made me pick this place, and we were not dissapointed. They recommend reservations, because it isn't that large and located in a strip mall. We were lucky and got in without reservations, but it wouldn't hurt, especially since you guys live there and can plan ahead.

You HAVE to go there! They specialize in Northern Thai food (aka Issan) and they don't hold back on the heat!
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-20 08:10:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Apr 19 2009, 09:51 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (roi_aggie @ Apr 19 2009, 06:48 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
If I remember correctly, I went to a place called Royal Thai Restaurant on W Sahara. The food was great, the wait staff was great. Compared to the Thai restaurant in Honolulu, it blew them away.

Maybe Aaron and his wife can stop by and see if it is still up to par? unsure.gif

I would be up for a gathering. It sounds fun!


I just looked up the address, I will have to swing by and check it out. There is another place called Lotus of Siam, that is supposed to be really really good, it has been around for a very long time. We just haven't had a chance to go.


Ooo Ooo... That's the place!!! I was on the wrong side of Sahara! It was Lotus of Siam we went to, and that place is great. I looked at the website and remember the inside. You can pretty much order what you want to. No need to look at the menu!
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-20 07:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Apr 19 2009, 08:18 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE
Aaron, I assume you can recommend some good authentic Thai restaurants where we can all reminisce about the good times in Thailand?


That is going to be tough to recommend a good place. So far every where we have tried I have been rather disappointed, compared to what Nam cooks at home. There are two places that have been recommended, we just have not made it there yet. I am sure we will prior to August, so by then I should have a good recommendation.



If I remember correctly, I went to a place called Royal Thai Restaurant on W Sahara. The food was great, the wait staff was great. Compared to the Thai restaurant in Honolulu, it blew them away.

Maybe Aaron and his wife can stop by and see if it is still up to par? unsure.gif

I would be up for a gathering. It sounds fun!
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-19 20:48:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Apr 19 2009, 03:57 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Your ex-military you should try USAA. I believe you should be eligible. Great rates, no one has been able to touch the rates & coverage I get through them, plus their service is exceptional. Their credit cards and checking accounts are awesome also.


Thanks for the tip. I'll have to check them out.

Speaking of military, one of my best friends that I met in the Navy, and talk to once a week, lives in North Las Vegas, and is also named Aaron! Everytime I see your ID I always think about him! I'm really needing to get out there to see him. Last time I was in LV was summer 2004.
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-19 15:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (uscandual @ Apr 19 2009, 02:33 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I have Geico insurance. Have always been very happy with them.


I HAD Geico, until I realized that when I got my new truck, the rates went up a lot more than I expected. When I started comparing, I realized I was paying an extra $440 bucks a year. I even went onto the Geico site as if I were a new customer, and got the same lower rate quote. When I called them and asked them what the deal was, I got some morron saying I wouldn't be able to purchase the lower rate, because I already had insurance with Geico!!! mad.gif wacko.gif Needless to say, I told him "fine, then I will no longer have insurance with Geico" and hung up the phone, then went with Progressive.
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-19 14:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Apr 19 2009, 02:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
The only time I miss her having a DL is when she wants to go to the mall to look at clothes. I do not have fun walking around looking at dresses all day, however I deal with it.


laughing.gif Oh believe me brother, I know the feeling! Chutima did have a Thai lady that would take her shopping on the weekends, but that relationship went by the wayside. What I do now, is drop her off and go do something else, or during football season, I go and sit in Ruby Tuesdays, drink beer, watch football, and let her go shopping. When she's finished, she knows where to find me. A Win Win situation!!! biggrin.gif good.gif

Ron, you're correct about the EAD. I sometimes forget that, because back when we applied, it was extra, and we didn't mess with it. The EAD can also be used for getting the ID or DL as well, and as you said, it "usually" comes faster, but I've seen them take almost as long.

One other thing Chutima loves to do is work out, so I purchased all sorts of fitness equipment. She also watches the "Fitness Channel" and works out with the shows, plus I have an Eliptical and a Rowing machine, and our Florida room makes a great place for her to do aerobics while watching the videos.
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-19 14:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Apr 19 2009, 02:24 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE
I think the big deal about the drivers license has to do with where you live. In Texas I was told by the State Trooper in the drivers license office that without an international DL you cannot drive until you get a green card. The big deal about this is we don't really have mass transit thats worth anything. Additionally everything is spread so far apart its going to be hell if she cant learn to drive or apply for a DL until she get the GC.


That was my big concern in Las Vegas also, just being able to teach her. I doubt the state trooper is going to be smart enough to tell the difference between the Thai license and the international license. Nam is stuck home all day while I am out, she doesn't seem to mind though. It doesn't bother me at all having to take her shopping etc, I kind of thought it might be a big pain to have to always go with her, but it has actually been good. I have thought about buying her a scooter to be able to make it down to the grocery store on, and may still do that, but haven't decided yet. She had her own scooter in Buriram, so I know she can ride. The funny thing is she sees my sportbike in the garage and said she wants to take that out. I just laughed and told her if she can sit on it and get it off the kick stand she can take it. To funny watching a 95 lbs 5'1" girl trying to get GSXR 1000 off the kick stand. LOL


Why is it going to be hell if she can't learn to drive? She can't work w/o a GC, so why is it important to throw her out on the freeways in Dallas?

Like Aaron says, it means YOU get to take her shopping, or you do the shopping. It's going to take some time for her to learn her way around, especially where you live. What's wrong with letting them adjust first? They have to crawl before they walk, and it sounds like some want them running the second they touch down!

Chutima has been more than happy staying at home playing on her computer and working on her blogs. I do a lot of the shopping on my way home from work, or take her to one of the local Asian markets on the weekend when we run low on those supplies. Does she want to drive, yes, but right now I only have one vehicle, and I'm not looking to get another one just now.

As for insurance, I have Progressive, and have her listed, as you must list anyone in your household over 15. It would have been a lot higher with Allstate, because she has not had her license (doesn't matter if it is learners permit or not) over 3 years.

Edited by roi_aggie, 19 April 2009 - 01:03 PM.

*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-19 13:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (Birch-Beer @ Apr 18 2009, 11:55 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
1- Heed that warning, DO NOT teach your wife to drive. I know this from experience.

3- Also, the original name change and divorce papers were in the mix. They looked right over them and asked for them again. so? what can you do? go get them again.

this same interviewer, when I went into the Embassy in September to find out how long the police report was good for, I heard him interviewing a buddhist monk saying, "yes, i understand you use the laws of god, but we are a nation governed by the laws of man, this is what we abide by and that is why I am here talking to you". arrogant #######


On number 1... good.gif

On number 3... if you still have those documents, submit them again.

As for the bolded part... I concur.
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-18 23:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
I should also reiterate… w/o a GC, or an EAD, your spouse will NOT be able to apply for either an ID or DL in MOST states. In addition, regardless of whether or not they have an International DL, they will still need to take both the written and driving tests in order to get a state DL. If you want them to start learning how to drive in Thailand first, that’s one thing. If you think that getting the International DL will really help for anything… it won’t. Additionally, it might not be a good idea for them to learn how to drive in Thailand, and then turn around and have to re-learn how to drive in the US, because of the different driving patterns. Just my 2 baht worth! wink.gif


*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-18 22:12:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (rin and john @ Apr 18 2009, 10:02 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Feb 15 2009, 08:26 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Plus it can be used for her ID, since it has her Birthdate and she won't need to carry her passport everywhere. In Vegas she will get ID'd everywhere.


You can probably get her a state ID. Rin got a TN ID for identification only (looks like a DL but is laid out in portrait instead of landscape. The first month she was here we went to Beale St. She got carded. I handed the guy her Thai ID and pointed to her birthdate (year 2521). He didn't ask, just let her in. Maybe he is versed in the Thai calendar?


Once Chutima received her GC, we were able to get her a FL ID card. After that, I found a website here in FL that you could pay a nominal fee (I think like only $49) and take practice tests. They claimed that if you could pass all of their tests, then you could pass the FL written exam, and that is what Chutima did. Of course I got her the FL driving booklet, and after many days of translating using her electronic dictionary, she was able to pass all the tests online, and then successfully passed her written exam.

That is as far as we have gotten, because I know from personal experience... NEVER try to teach your wife how to drive!!! Besides the possibility of suffering a coronary, or getting into an accident, it is really tough on a new marriage! Find a driving school!


*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-18 21:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Apr 18 2009, 09:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Like I said the majority I have met. My experience is there are the guys that don't care (majority I have met) and then the guys that should be working in the private sector making a bundle cause they are so good at their jobs.

QUOTE
Then come steer it in the right direction.


I will jump in at any moment smile.gif I just need time to read the novels being written. LOL


I look forward to you jumping in! We can continue to discuss the topic of civil service and contractors more!

I decided to go civil service for several reasons. First, was the job. I really wanted the position I have now, because as a contractor, I dealt with these guys, and respected them, which was a change. Second, I hated the senior management in the company I was working for, which is the biggest problem with most contractors... not the actual workers. Third, it allowed me to apply my military time towards my retirement, which is a big thing for me. I also wanted to show that not all civil servants are lazy and incompetent! Yeah, I'm not making the kind of money I could in the private sector, but I do like my job, and its benefits.
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-18 21:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (AaronLV @ Apr 18 2009, 07:52 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
The conversation in that thread has spiraled out of control. I have been reading, but have had nothing to add thus far.

The CO's are still civil servants, and the majority of civil servants I have met don't care about their jobs, and are lazy to learn all aspects of them (no offense to any civil servants on this forum). This has been my experience working in the government contracting world.


Then come steer it in the right direction.

As for civil servants... I am one, and I take my job very seriously, along with my co-workers. Though I've certainly met a few I'd like to seen thrown out on their ear, you can't judge us all in the same light.

As for government contractors, the same can be said for them, as I have worked for both, and see good and bad on both sides. If it weren't for the contractors bilking the government for every cent they can, not delivering their products on-time and on-budget, we wouldn't be in the financial bind we are today.


*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-18 19:05:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (uscandual @ Apr 18 2009, 06:37 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (roi_aggie @ Apr 18 2009, 05:23 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
As a friendly reminder, Daboyz opened a new thread called appropriately enough "Thailand Thread" over in the Asia: East and Pacific (Except China) forum. Please drop by and participate in our banter!

Haven't seen AaronLV or BirchBeer over there yet, and Danny has only posted once, so come on by! biggrin.gif


Oh yeah, it's been a blast. We've been doing shots of Sang Som, tequila, and draught beers from Robert's in-house beer machine. The party is in full swing kicking.gif


rofl.gif good.gif good.gif good.gif
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-18 17:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
As a friendly reminder, Daboyz opened a new thread called appropriately enough "Thailand Thread" over in the Asia: East and Pacific (Except China) forum. Please drop by and participate in our banter!

Haven't seen AaronLV or BirchBeer over there yet, and Danny has only posted once, so come on by! biggrin.gif
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-18 17:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (uscandual @ Apr 17 2009, 06:08 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Oh shoot! Now I realize I'm posting on the visa-only sawasdee3 thread, when I've drifted into material for the Thailand-society-politics thread, which was promptly co-opted into the Quebec separatism thread. This is all much too confoooozing for me to keep track of!


headbonk.gif Damn Canuck!
laughing.gif
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-17 17:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (dvddvd @ Apr 17 2009, 02:51 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Turned out there was a guy standing a few yards away who was shooting the bird and waving it high while waiting on the President to pass and my wife did not want to get involved with the police when they came over to beat the you know what out of that guy. She didn't want police to lump her in with him when they came to get him ... etc.

We saw the motorcade and it wasn't until afterwards that I learned that my wife was scared to death the entire time.

It was an eye opening moment for me .... and my wife.

dvd


laughing.gif Just had to laugh when I read that, because I can picture it so well!

As for being scared, that's a shame, and I hope you were able to calm her fears.
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-17 16:34:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (Joe&Noi @ Apr 17 2009, 03:34 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Anyone know a decent place to celebrate in Bangkok that doesn't cost much?

Sorry know this isn't really the place to ask as it has little to do with visas but most of you have spent far more time in Bangkok than I have. thanks for all suggestions.



Congratulations Joe & Noi! good.gif Though an IR1 would be even better, the CR1 will still save you some hassels with the USCIS once you're back in the US of A.

Try going to Soi Khau San (sp?) for celebrating!

Edited by roi_aggie, 17 April 2009 - 06:05 AM.

*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-17 06:03:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSAWASDEE 3 (2009 Thai thread restarted)
QUOTE (Danny and Chada @ Apr 16 2009, 09:36 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (roi_aggie @ Apr 16 2009, 06:25 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Danny... Modest na! laughing.gif

Congrats on getting your hardcopy NOA2! dancin5hr.gif


Yes thats me in full dork mode. blush.gif I'll be intolerably happy for days so I'm apologizing in advance...


Not a problem Danny! I remember what it was like! biggrin.gif

secret7vf.gif Reality Check: The fun has just begun! cool.gif
*Robert*MaleThailand2009-04-16 21:17:00