Forum	Title	Content	Member	Sex	Country	Date/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	kirk, You've gotten this far and don't know her name or country of citizenship yet? (And who is Jenny, then?) Yodrak Kinda what I was thinking!!! Well, I'm back from my way too short of a trip to Thailand. Everything is good, except not having a NOA2 yet! For those of you who don't keep up with Thai politics, PM Thaksin resigned, under heavy pressure from both parties, including his own TRT party. The Siam Paragon is amazing, along with the Siam Ocean World Aquarium. Though 450 bht to get in seemed a little steep, I felt is was worth it; and yes, even Thai citizens have to pay the same amount! Rather then spend the whole time in Chutima's rather small apartment in Nonthaburi, we spent 4 nights at the Pathumwan Princess. Though old, and in need of redecorating, it is a very nice hotel, with great views, large rooms, and great location. They have the beast breakfast buffet I have seen, with plenty of selections and great food. Definitely worth getting up for each morning. Since the hotel is connected to MBK shopping mall, it is easy to move around without going outside. From MBK, you can get to the National BTS station, or go to the Discovery Center. From there, you can go to Siam Center and on to Siam Paragon. For those of you who like malls, this should be enough to last a lifetime!!! My feet are still sore from all the walking, and we didn't even cover a fraction of all the floors and shops. It would take a couple of days just to cover all the food places on the first floor of the Paragon! There are so many stores it's not even funny. There were even 5 golf shops in a row, carrying every brand imaginable! Seeing the new Hummers, Ferraris, and Lamborghini’s was a treat as well! Anyway, this was the shortest time I ever spent in Thailand, and don’t think I will do that again, but I wanted to save my vacation time for when Chutima has her interview, to fly her back, and to get married and have a short honeymoon. One week was just not long enough! Robert	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2006-02-27 18:12:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	An Alaska Cruise I'm thinking that even though we stay on the ship she will be required to go through customs and immigration upon our return to Seattle. Is this true? Rich Rich, You better plan on postponing that cruise. You are correct in your thinking that they will have customs and immigration officals come aboard the ship prior to it's return, and will want customs and immigration forms for all passengers. It is the same thing as flying to a foreign country. Unless you have applied for and recieved AP, you better pick a U.S. destination for your vacation! I have been on several cruises, and they are a great way to take a vacation! As an alternative, you could take a NCL Hawaiian cruise! It never goes to any foreign ports, and you get to see 4 different islands and 5 different cities! Aloha, Robert Edited by roi_aggie, 17 February 2006 - 05:54 PM.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2006-02-17 17:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	I downloaded the medical forms from the Japan Embassy site, and noticed they are expired about 2 years. Not sure if that will be a problem at some point. Also, the second page for most of these forms is only the paperwork reduction act and privacy act legal stuff. Not sure how important that is for the hospital performing the exam. The Bangkok Embassy website has the most recent medical forms, minus the second page legal disclaimers. Mike, Thanks for pointing that out. I completely missed the dates. I'm normally quite ####### about those things... guess I was in too much of a hurry trying to find complete forms, and the fact that those pdf files looked so much better. Sometimes the State Department accepts older forms, and sometimes they don't. I have had it happen to me when they changed to the new DS-156 forms! I had everything neatly filled out, ready to go for three different tourist visas. When I went to the window (Chiang Mai), the guy said they were complete, and looked so good... BUT... they were obsolete!!! I know he felt bad about not accepting them since they were so neat. I had to fill out all three applications again, by hand!!! I had writers cramp when I was done, and lost my place in line. Ended up being there the whole morning because of that! Moral of the story... use the latest revision of the forms! I hope this doesn't cause anyone problems who used the forms from the Japan Embassy. Robert	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2006-02-17 16:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	Jass called me today from BKK. She used the medical forms we got off the Japan US Embassy web site for her medical at Bumrungrad....NO PROBLEMS...... Great news Mike! I'm glad to hear those forms worke for her. So did they actually use the DS-2053 form that isn't listed on the BNK Packet 3 documents? I already have an extra copy of the DS-3025 form, so that hopefully Chutima can get her own copy for later during the AOS process... if we EVER get there!!! Two more days and it's off to Thailand!!! Will be delivering everything Chutima will need for the rest of the process, except the I-134 and supporting evidence, because it's too far out. Besides, once she gets an interview date, I will go back over to be with her, and take them at that time. Robert Edited by roi_aggie, 16 February 2006 - 07:04 PM.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2006-02-16 18:59:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	Is the one with the photo ds-2053 the one we are missing?? Good link and find Roi!!! Robert You are the best!!!!! Thank you very much. We will transfer the information to the "complete" forms and i am sure everything will be fine. Thanks again Mike Mike and Dennis, ????????? (mai bpen rai!) Anything to help! Hope everything works out, and both of you are successful in getting medical exams for your fiancees. Keep us posted! I don't know where I'd be without "Google"!!! Robert	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2006-02-14 18:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	Ton did her medical in Dec. and used only 3 forms which were from packet 3 that the consulate gave to her. She said even though it was only 3 forms, they total out to more than 3 pages. She doesn't remember exactly how many pages though. I have to tell you this is really confusing. My fiance is closing her business and flying to BKK today to take care of the medical, post office fee and the police report. I feel like i may have given her bad advice and lead her down the wrong path IF she is denied her physical because of the forms that we printed off the web site. It would be a terrible waste. This could all be avoided if the Embassy would let her pick up packet 3....will they still give it out on request? Mike After some searching, I found complete copies of all three medical forms, plus the DS-2053 form the other forms say they are to be used with. They are much cleaner than the forms on the "BKK" website! Anyway, here is the link, and I guess we shouldn't be surprised which Embassy it is: Japan U.S. Embassy Hope this will help all of us yet to go! Robert Edited by roi_aggie, 14 February 2006 - 04:24 PM.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2006-02-14 16:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	I was going to say the same thing Tiksman said, which is I wonder if it is because the three forms in Packet 3 from the Embassy have 2 pages each (the second page being the instruction page), and the ones you print off the website don't?! That would be a pretty cheesy reason not to do the medical, but who said anything in this process makes sense? Malydon, please let us know what happens with your fiancee. Maybe it is a case of talking to the "right person" at the hospital to get it done. Meanwhile, I'm going to search and see if it is possible to find the complete forms elsewhere.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2006-02-14 14:59:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	Mike, Where have you seen or heard that DS-230-I is to be sent un-signed? Yodrak Is leaving the DS-230 Part 1 unsigned something new? Does it make sense to you people? Mike YES, leaving the DS-230 Part I unsigned makes VERY good sense, since the Instrustions for Immigrant Visa Applicants clearly states "Application for Immigrant Visa: The beneficiary should complete part 1 of form DS-230. Please do no sign this form." Robert	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2006-02-08 14:47:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	Double Congrats to: CJ & Jum and Ray & Su!!! You guys are making me jealous!!! Right now I'd just settle for a NOA2!!!	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2006-02-07 15:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	Something of that nature may be required of someone who is foolish enough to let it be known they've had a Thai wedding ceremony and someone such as a US consular official or USCIS officer wants to be sure that they're not married. Yodrak Yodrak, What exactly do you mean by that statement? Are you just trying to point out that you are NOT considered leagaly married until either you register your marriage with the Amphur or through legal action abroad, and that by letting someone know you've had a Thai wedding ceremony, you are not legaly married and might have to prove it? According to Thai law, even a ceremony where both Sin Sod and Khongman are presented, is considered a Betrothal, not a wedding. Robert	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2006-02-06 15:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (HYENA @ Dec 19 2008, 02:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> DOn't worry about my wedding. SHe's got her "single" certification already. There's no possible way anyone would know about the ceremony. If all works well, we'd do it after the interview anyway...all depends on how things are going. We're going to wing it, though. If there's no papers, there's no wedding (same as in the US) but I understand the worry. I'm not about to blow it all away. It's just since we won't be back and we'd liek to officially get married in the US later anyways. I can't wait...sitting here watching airplane seats fill up mid Feb returning march 31... Soon as I get NOA2, I can predicat a bit better when to go! I told her someone who got their NOA1 the day after me just got NOA2 and she said "stop talking, I keep telling you, might as well be a year). She doesn't like to think about anything that's not actually happening! I like to do the same but I got sucked in watching all the approvals here...dreaming....! Soon as we get here, I'm flying to the court house, getting married then we can do our US ceremony at our leisure. This way we won't have to wait for the rest of the paperwork only because we were arranging our official wedding. HYENA, You really need to be careful when you say such things as your “wedding” in Thailand. As for you saying you’d “[like] to officially get married in the US later”… well that ISN’T an option!!! You HAVE to get married in the US, as that is the purpose of the K-1 visa!!! What you will do in Thailand is go through a Buddhist ceremony for marriage, NOT getting married. As you already know, unless you register the marriage with the Amphur, and receive a Marriage Certificate, you are not legally married. Still, it’s not something you need to bring attention too, until after your fiancée has her K-1 visa in hand. If you give her a wedding band in the ceremony, which is typical, she can’t wear it to the US Embassy or going through her POC. You need to be smart about these things. How many wedding dates do you intend to have?! There is no reason to rush to a court house to get married, because 90 days is plenty of time to plan and get married, especially if you’ve already done some ground work, like finding a wedding planner, or someone like that. Even if you get married at the court house, you will still have to wait to get the certified marriage certificate, which you must send in with your AOS paperwork. You need to Jai yen yen! Robert	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-12-19 19:33:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (mnbinth @ Dec 18 2008, 09:41 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (shawndoc @ Dec 16 2008, 03:21 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Anyone have any suggestions for an inexpensive online translation service? The embassy took her translated copy of her birth certificate and she didn't make a backup copy, thinking the embassy would just use her Thai birth certificate. I'd like to be able to scan her Thai BC, and upload to a translation service who will email back the translated document for AOS. www.thaienglish.com worked great for me. I was in the U.S. and needed documents translated. I sent them a PDF through e-mail, they translated and sent me a PDF back and also mailed a hard copy to a relative in Thailand. All this for $15 and the quality was great. E-mail Sam Fraser at sam@thaienglish.com This was several months back so I assume he's still working there. I too used http://www.thaienglish.com/ and was very pleased with their service, and cost. The website is still there, so I'm sure they are still performing translations.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-12-18 22:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	There are no Thai COs at the consulate. They are all US citizens, and speak English as their primary language. If the CO speaks any Thai, it will be whatever they have learned from taking classes or from their time living in Thailand. That's why it is best for the girls to be able to speak English with the CO. One other thing to keep in mind, if you are not going to be accompanying your fiancée/wife back from Thailand, they need to be able to read, write, speak & understand enough English to make the journey here, especially at their POC. If they can't, they will have a lot of difficulties.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-12-16 12:22:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	raptorea, If you were to go back and see all the people who have been approved in the past, around the same time periods, you will see there were definitely different COs. To say there is only one CO doing K-1 visas just doesn't make sense. There's nothing you can do right now, except wait and see what happens. Try not to get any more worked up than necessary.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-12-15 22:41:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (rin and john @ Dec 15 2008, 06:13 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (raptorea1 @ Dec 15 2008, 04:08 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> NEED HELP PLEASE I am in Thailand now and need some input. We met with our attorney and he said the guy cannot come to the interview and it is actually recommend. This is where I need help! He says that my girls english is poor and the current Co is very strict and he will more than likely deny my interview based on english skills? Can this be true? He says she will more than likely have to wait for a second interview! Right now I am already heartbroken.. We have done everything correct and to based on poor english I am in shock! I think she speaks english ok I understand her but the attorney says the co is very impatient and is mean!! What are your thoughts??? Thank you She can request the interview be conducted in Thai. The only issue would be if he asked the language in which the two of you communicate. If it is english and her english is very limited, it may raise the question in the CO's mind as to whether or not the relationship is bonafide. I was able to attend the interview with Rin, but have seen on here recently that it is no longer possible to attend. John raises a valid point on communication. The CO has to be sure the relationship in "bonafide", and in order to have a bonafide relationship, there needs to be communication. The stronger the better, otherwise it raises doubts. I too attended my fiancee's interview, but that policy has obviously changed.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-12-15 18:17:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	As to getting married by a Judge, that would be the date of your "legal" marriage, and yes it meets the requirement. However, before you can submit your I-485, you need to get a certified copy of the "Marriage Certificat" from your local court house. Depending on the court house, it can take a couple of weeks to obtain.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-12-15 18:13:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (Devkpaik @ Dec 13 2008, 06:09 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Does anyone else have any insight into this? Devkpaik, It is not within 90 days of the K-1 visa. Her K-1 visa has been used, and is no longer valid. The requierment is to get married, legally, within 90 days of entry into the US. The I-94 stub in your fiancee's passport is now her only evidence of being in the US legally, and it is the date stamped on it, which is the date you should submit your I-485 by, if you want to ensure your soon to be wife stays "in status". You will need to submit a copy of the I-94, front and back, with the I-485. The I-485 only requires you be married within 90 days of entry, but the longer you wait, the longer it will take to get the GC, or EAD and EP. As long as you get married within the 90 days, it is possible to go past the 90 days and not file your I-485, but unless you have a damn good reason for doing so, you should stick to the timeline. Robert Edited by roi_aggie, 15 December 2008 - 06:09 PM.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-12-15 18:08:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	On the bright side... the US Dollar is growing stronger against the Thai Baht! Would love to see 40 to 1 again!	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-11-26 11:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (toma1 @ Nov 25 2008, 07:59 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> That was the price on Kuwait Airlines after taxes. Passengers Price Tax, fees + charges Full Price 1 Adult THB 20,790 THB 1,620 THB 22,410 I really dislike Kuwait Airlines. I used to fly them from MNL to BKK. Wasn't impressed with the condition of the aircraft at all... but it was my only option. So how do you usually fly from TB to BKK, Tom? I've never had to fly to Asia from the East coast, since I moved here from Hawaii, and before that, lived in the Marshall Islands. I am not looking forward to the loooooooong flights to get there...	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-11-25 10:25:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (toma1 @ Nov 23 2008, 03:38 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Question for divorced guys with a fiancee applying for a K1 visa in Bangkok: When you provided your divorce decree to the embassy, did you give them the MARRIAGE certificate for that previous marriage as well? Or did you only need the divorce paperwork? Thanks for any info you can provide. Tom, when I went through BNK, they didn't have that requirement. My interpretation of the new instructions are that you only need to provide a copy of your divorce decree. Marriage certificates are what you get in Thailand when you register your marriage. You also get an equivalent Divorce certificate as well. Just make sure the papers you provide are stamped by the court clerk. QUOTE (daboyz @ Nov 23 2008, 09:11 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Stickman should be your guide at all times. Here's one of many websites you can find seeds from: http://www.evergreen...thaibasil3.html Edited by roi_aggie, 23 November 2008 - 09:28 PM.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-11-23 21:25:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	I completely feel for those of you who don't live close to good Asian markets, especially those that don't have fresh produce. There are many online sites that carry many Thai products, including fresh produce, but I haven't seen any that carry fresh Holy Basil (bai gkaprow). Thai Basil (bai horapa) is certainly no substitute for Holy Basil, as the flavors are totally different. The only alternative is to purchase some seeds and grow your own Thai herbs. My wife is able to grow Galangal, Kafir Lime, Mint, Holy Basil, and Thai Basil, which really comes in handy for cooking Thai food. For those of you whose SO is not here yet, I strongly recommend finding a store that sells Thai Rice, or Jasmine Rice, and purchase a quality Rice Cooker. Having those two items are a definite MUST! The next thing to do is locate some good Fish Sauce. We always use Tiparos, but there are other brands. Do your research now, rather than later, as it will make the transition much better.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-11-23 12:38:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (toma1 @ Nov 22 2008, 02:40 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> What did you do to manage homesickness? Tom, the one good thing about Florida is that there is no shortage of Asian markets around here, especially in Orlando. I don't know what it's like on the West coast, but here on the East coast we have no problem finding all the ingredients we need. We have a great Asian store we shop at, with Thai owners. We also have a brand new Wat in Melbourne, with a very large Thai community. Though my wife likes to go to the temple for special occasions, she hasn't really embraced any members of the Thai community here. She prefers to stay at home and play on her laptop most of the time, working on a blog she has. She has focused on her cooking, and loves to take pictures as she prepares and cooks, and posts them on her blog. She is crazy about her camera, and takes pictures of everything. That is also where she gets recipes and cooking tips to help her with her cooking. Like Anna, Chutima never really had to worry about cooking, coming from Nontaburi, but she has done a great job learning how to cook. For long distance phone service, we use PINGO (an online calling company), which allows her to call her mother on a regular basis, and her best friend. Her mother calls often as well, and she uses Messenger to chat with her BFF. She misses Thailand, but she also enjoys traveling here in the US, though we haven't had time to see as many different places as she'd like. I find it VERY difficult to take her out to eat, as she is very picky, unless it is a Thai/Japanese restaurant, or a seafood restaurant. Luckily, both of which we have plenty of here on the Atlantic coast of Florida. She isn't a beef or pork eater, so that rules out a lot of food, and she isn't into any of the fast food around here, except for KFC! Given that your fiancée is well traveled and well educated, I'm sure she will do just fine here in Florida. Of course there will be times she'll be home sick, but the excitement of being in a new place and seeing new sights should over come that. Just make sure you have a good long distance service! Be sure to contact Anya-D as Scott suggested. She and I have known each other for a long time, and she occasionally still checks in. She is a great source of information from the Thai immigrant side. Edited by roi_aggie, 22 November 2008 - 03:22 PM.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-11-22 15:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (rin and john @ Nov 22 2008, 01:24 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Our biggest concern is the "westernization" of her children (ages 7,9, and 12) and the potential loss of their "Thainess". John John, I can tell you from direct experience with three Thai sisters (ages 8, 10, and 15), that their westernization is both inevitable and necessary, for them to fit-in, survive, and adapt to US schools and the US education system. Only the oldest girl can still speak Thai, but probably not as well as she could, and can’t read or write Thai anymore. She has a hard enough time reading and writing English, that trying to keep her fluent in Thai is just not feasible. As for the younger two, other than the fact they look Thai, they might as well be Farangs! The 10 yo doesn’t even like going back to Thailand anymore, and it is really sad to see that, but she is an extremely bright and intelligent girl, so what can you say? It is always hardest on the 1st generation of immigrants, and they will typically push away their ethnic culture and background, in order to better fit in. It is the 2nd generation that tries to rekindle with their roots. So basically John, you can’t fight it, but only help them adjust and fit into their new surroundings. All you can do is try to make sure that they never look down on, or are embarrassed of, where they come from.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-11-22 13:53:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	Pete, thanks for elaborating on some of my points. You are correct that a disrespectful person tends to stay that way! It is more correct to say that if someone completely disagrees with or finds certain aspects of a particular culture unappealing, then they should move on. I am also in agreement with you concerning free will. As you pointed out, certain people like to adapt to new cultures, and that is great, as long as it is their choice. That brings up another point. Some people, mostly guys, will often get upset when they discover their new bride IS changing, and becoming more westernized. They need to be aware that that possibility exists, and that by exposing a foreigner to Western ways can often time change that person. If you don’t want them to change, then don’t bring them to the US! As for me, I personally love everything about Thailand, the people, the food, the culture, and the “religion”. I can’t wait till I can retire and move to Thailand permanently. My first exposure to Thailand was back in 1968 as a young boy, and I have been in love with Thailand ever since. Whether I was married to a Thai woman or not, I would still want to live there. One of my old Navy buddies has lived there the last 20 years, and I’m jealous! Here in the US, my wife and I live mostly observing Thai customs. We speak a mixture of both Thai and English, we eat mostly Thai food, and we observe Thai Buddhist principals and teachings. She has been here for over two years, and we can’t wait to go back to Thailand, once we have her 10 yr GC in hand. (Which we should have already received, but thanks to the VSC, it is taking approximately 10 months, so we have another 7 months to wait!) Thanks daboyz, AaronLV and rin and john for your nice comments!	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-11-22 13:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	Like Birch-Beer, had a lot of reading to catch up on. You guys have been regular chatty Cathy's lately! Sorry I missed the discussion on Sin Sod, because that is a topic I enjoy discussing. I saw a lot of VERY high amounts mentioned, and a lot of money being thrown around by some, and no money by others (you know who you are!!! ) It always bothers me when I hear, or see, Farangs spending large amounts of money in Thailand, because it just adds credence to Thai beliefs that all Farang are wealthy, which I think most of us will agree, is NOT the case! Remember that 9 is a lucky number to Thai people. Giving a Sin Sod of say 199,999 Baht, would be a very nice amount, along with presenting your bride-to-be 9 baht of gold. Gold is an investment, especially Thai gold, which tends to be the best gold you can buy. Many families will take the Sin Sod, purchase land or something else, and then give back to the couple. It the parents keep the whole amount to themselves, I would worry about their motives. Now days Sin Sod is meant to be mostly symbolic and to ensure that the happy couple starts of on the right foot. Most Thai people will tell you that when you give something, you have to give it from your heart, and give what you feel appropriate, or what you can afford. If you give because you feel you have to, or that it is expected, then it doesn’t carry the same meaning. If you can’t afford a Sin Sod, then you can’t afford one. If you can, don’t give an obscene amount just to impress everyone, because that is not the purpose of Sin Sod. Remember the Thai culture of Geng Jai. If you don’t know what it is, I highly recommend you look it up! This is not directed at anyone on here, I just want to express an opinion. I feel that if someone is not going to respect the culture of the person they want to marry, then they should find someone from a culture that they will. I have never understood why a western man would marry an Asian woman, and then try to change her into someone different, aka “Westernize” her. Once again… just my opinion.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-11-22 10:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (rin and john @ Nov 20 2008, 06:28 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Just wanted to let everyone here know that Rin and the children had their nterview today in Memphis. Took about 15 minutes for the interview. The officer swore Rin and I in, asked to see originals of passports, EAD, driver's licenses, birth certificates, and marriage certificates (compared each to the copy in his folders). Asked how we met; asked each child their birthdate and birthplace; then for any information on house contracts, life insurance, medical insurance, etc. That was about it. Told us we were approved then printed a sheet of paper indicating approval and that the GC (10 year as we have been married just over two years) would be mailed to our home. No more USCIS! (well at least until naturalization) John Congratulaltions Rin & John!!! So wish we could have gone straight to the 10 yr GC! Now only 3 years till Naturalization for you two!	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-11-22 10:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	B74L, Welcome to VJ and the Sawasdee thread! As far as the B2 visa is concerned, I would not have her mention anything about you at all, and see if she can get the visa. If she mentions she has a US b/f, I can almost guarantee you they will deny her the visa. If she gets the visa, w/o mentioning you... great. If she doesn't... no problem, even when it comes to the K-1 visa. There have been a lot of people who get K-1 visas that were denied B2 visas. Not the same criteria. Will just have to mention that fact in the mounds of paperwork you will have to fill out! If she does get a B2 visa, that creats other options, but no point discussing them unless she gets the B2 visa first. Once again, welcome, and good luck on your journey! Robert	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-11-04 08:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (George-Joom @ Nov 2 2008, 04:59 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Hi Everybody! Well Joom and I are married!! October 20. Her family was able to attend. Believe it it or not her Father, Sister and Niece got tourist visas to come over and witness the marriage. We were married by a JP and everything went very well. Her family returned to Thailand Oct 26 and we are settling in. All is well and life is good Now what is the next step for us? Thanks much everybody! George and Joom Congratulations on your marriage. Time to start boning up on the AOS process. Once you get your certified marriage certificate, you can apply. Good luck!	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-11-03 08:21:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (daboyz @ Oct 14 2008, 01:19 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Maybe they changed the place since I was there last. From the posts on this site, it sounds like they do it at one of those windows in the Non-USC building. Granted, I haven't been there in a couple years. I thought they just did it at window 5, not in a separate room. That's the way I remember it when I was there in 2006. There was no way to get to any of the embassy staff, as they were all behind glass windows, as a matter of security. I don't know where someone could have punched a CO, as they are not accessible to the public. Additionally, "attending the interview" was nothing more than standing next to your fiancée in front of the window. There are some windows that you can shut a door behind, but you are still separated from the CO by the window.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-10-14 13:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (George-Joom @ Oct 9 2008, 09:25 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Hello Everybody!! Well we have our Visa in hand...and she is making final arrangements to come to the USA! Did your SOs purchase one way or round trip tickets to the US? Thank you very much George George, congrats on the visa. There is no requirement for a round-trip ticket, so get what ever is cheapest, or works best for you.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-10-10 12:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (roi_aggie @ Oct 7 2008, 03:14 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (orlandoiam @ Oct 7 2008, 02:16 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Does anyone have a recent Packet 4 requirement list and order. Here is the link to the list of documents required, and the order they should be listed in: http://bangkok.usemb...isa_packet3.pdf All the proof of relationship would be at the bottom of the stack, or in your case, show them the baby! Try clicking on my timeline, and scrolling down to read m embassy review, along with the following timeline/review from George. http://www.visajourn...ile.php?id=2634	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-10-07 14:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (orlandoiam @ Oct 7 2008, 02:16 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Does anyone have a recent Packet 4 requirement list and order. Here is the link to the list of documents required, and the order they should be listed in: http://bangkok.usemb...isa_packet3.pdf All the proof of relationship would be at the bottom of the stack, or in your case, show them the baby!	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-10-07 14:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (Kang Lang @ Oct 3 2008, 01:57 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> hi there, actually you are incorrect on the 90 days to file AOS there are loads of threads about people who have waited and were approved with no trouble if you want to get other opinions. you can file at any time some have waited several years (although you cannot travel abroad or work) and we waited a year to the day the main thing is that you MUST be married in the 90 days. it's a good idea to file sooner rather than later it is the uscis and who knows how long it will take to get approved. good luck! Kang Lang, If people are waiting to file AOS, its because they have a K-3 visa, which is valid for 2 years. That is NOT the case for a K-1 visa, which is a one-time use. Once the I-94 expires, you are OUT OF STATUS… period. Whether or not the USCIS wants to make an issue out of it or not, is up to them. They are somewhat lenient when you are not more than one year out of status. I would never recommend to anyone to let themselves (or their spouse) go out of status. QUOTE Hello, question you say get copy of i-94 card doesnt customs keep this card when you arrive? How do you get copy of that card? Does customs give you one extra? thank you Raptorea1, The CBP officer will keep the long portion of the I-94, but there is a “stub” that is removed and stapled into the passport. That is what proves the person is here legally, as long as it is still valid.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-10-06 08:00:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (Devkpaik @ Oct 3 2008, 01:02 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Devkpaik @ Oct 3 2008, 12:56 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Hey quick question guys... So my fiance arrived in the US on the 15th of September, but just wondering HOW long do we have to do everything? Like, getting married is the first step right? I know a fair amt. about the "getting the visa" process, but now that we're in the AOS stage, I'm LOST. I tried to check the guides but wasn't able to find anything besides a guide on how to assemble the papers, etc. Thanks! Also, another quick question about the expiration date of the K1. Does this only pertain to GETTING married before the date of expiration, or does it pertain to getting married and applying for AOS (all this needs to be done before the expiration)? Thanks again Devkpaik, The K-1 visa is a one time use, so it is finished. The only thing showing your fiancée is "In Status" is her I-94 card that she filled out on the plane, and the bottom portion stapled into her passport. You have 90 days from the date on the I-94 to FILE for AOS, which means you need to get married within that period of time. DO NOT procrastinate, yet don't worry about rushing either. 90 days is a lot of time to work with, as long as you plan wisely. You will need a copy of the I-94, K-1 Visa, Passport page, Copy of your NOA2, Marriage certificate, translated birth certificate, passport style photos, and Immunization record. Too many times people seem to "misplace" their I-94 and NOA2. Don't loose them, as they are still important, and costly to replace!!! Getting a SSN at this time also allows you to fill in an extra blank on the I-485 and on the Biographic History form, but if you don't have it, it won't cause any problems. So take your time, plan a nice wedding, but try to do it in a timely fashion. The immigration process doesn't stop until you get sworn in a naturalized citizen!!! Even after AOS you can't completely rest, though you do get a rather lengthy reprieve until its time to remove conditions. If you have any other questions, let me know! Robert	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-10-03 07:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (symbiosis @ Oct 1 2008, 06:45 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Anyway, she's saying now that maybe the K-1 interview should be conducted in Thai instead of English. My question is: how will that affect her chances of approval? Is she more likely to be approved if the interview is in English, which would be seen as evidence of our "common" language? Whether she conducts the interview in English or Thai will not have any affect. A lot of times they will be mixed Thai/English, because let's face it... it's a Farang CO trying to speak Thai!!! Don't worry about the small stuf!	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-10-01 11:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (Rolln @ Sep 29 2008, 08:33 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Some questions. Reading through the posts, it seems that the first thing eveyone did once there fiancee arrived is apply for a Social security #, But i didnt see anywhere that it said to do that first? Im a little confused about the order everything must go in. Do you need a soc # to get a marriage license?? after Fiancee arrives, First apply for soc #, then get married, then apply for change of status, at the same time apply for advanced parole and work permit?? Is that right??? It's much easier to get the SSN using your fiancée’s Maiden name, and then getting another card after getting married. That way there isn't any confusion on the part of the SSA office workers. When some workers see a different last name then what is in their system, they mistakenly think the applicant is no longer qualified for a SSN. There really is no hurry to get a SSN, it's just something to do! If you do get one, you get to put it on your AOS application, which is just another means of showing a good faith relationship. Most states won't issue either an ID or a drivers license without a Green Card or EAD AND a SSN, so waiting till after getting the 2 yr conditional GC (or EAD) is perfectly fine, and is what K-3 visa holders HAVE to do. If you are bound and determined to put your new wife straight to work, then by all means get a SSN right off the bat. As for needing a SSN for the marriage license, you need to check with your county clerk to find out. As for your understanding of the order in which to obtain the various cards, you are correct.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-09-30 12:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (Tom and Wariya @ Sep 23 2008, 01:57 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> A question for you learned people. When last I wrote I was headed to Thailand to see my fiancee who had decided she did not want to follow through with the K-1 visa. While there I extended my trip an extra week and after a few hassles with papers the Amphur's office wanted we got married. I know how difficult it is to get a tourist visa and probably even harder now that we are married as the will probably think she will come here to stay illegally on that visa. But I do want her to come here and meet my parents, grandkids, my kids, etc. So any suggestions on any other kind of visa I can get to get her here for 30 days or so other than a K-3 now? I'd hate to go through all that process just to get her here for about a month only and then go back to Thailand. I still plan to move there in 2-3 years when I retire again. And yes, I wish she would have agreed to finish the fiancee visa, come here for 4-5 months and then she could have gone back to Thailand. But that's not an option now that we are married. Thanks!! Hey Tom, welcome home, and congratulations on your marriage! As for your options, applying for a K-3 visa is about your only choice, and best bet. The nice thing about a K-3 visa, is that it is a multiple-entry visa that is good for two year. If you are planning on moving there in 3 years, then it would work out just right, since it could take up to a year to get the visa. Have you asked Wariya if she'd be willing to go through the medical and interview process for a K-3 visa? That's going to be your deciding factor. Otherwise, plan on your family visiting you and your new wife, and step-daughter in Thailand. Robert	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-09-29 14:03:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	Bump for new member	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-09-24 08:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (symbiosis @ Sep 3 2008, 09:21 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (roi_aggie @ Sep 3 2008, 08:51 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (symbiosis @ Sep 3 2008, 08:43 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> A question about citizenship. Can my fiancee go for U.S. citizenship and retain her Thai citizenship (at least in the eyes of the Thai government)?? The short answer is yes. Thank you. What's the long answer? As long as she keeps her Thai Passport valid, Thailand won't know she became a US Citizen, and the US doesn't try to take someones previous passport away. When going into Thailand, she would enter using her Thai passport, when coming back to the US, she would enter using her US passport.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-09-05 13:44:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures	SAWASDEE 2	QUOTE (symbiosis @ Sep 3 2008, 08:43 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> A question about citizenship. Can my fiancee go for U.S. citizenship and retain her Thai citizenship (at least in the eyes of the Thai government)?? The short answer is yes.	*Robert*	Male	Thailand	2008-09-03 07:51:00