ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
Middle East and North AfricaHigh school transcripts from Morocco
He can also take his GED (for free) when he gets here, after he gets his social security number. If you look around, you might even be able to find a place where he can take it in Spanish or French if he knows either of those (better than English).

Just a thought.

Good luck!

venusfire
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-05-17 20:14:00
Middle East and North AfricaThe cold, hard truth about MENA "husbands"

 

No one is blaming you for being abused. But the bottom line is, you alone bear the responsibility for continuing a petition for a man who physically abused you. That's not BLAME, but it is the truth. Your job, imo, is to figure out WHY you did that. 

I must admit I read the abuse as having been prior to marriage. It was a bit vague. But ok, you were married when it started but it was before he came here. 

No one is 'at fault' for being a victim/survivor of physical abuse....HOWEVER, you need to figure out how you rationalized it as being acceptable enough to get past it, and not immediately canceling his petition. We all tend to ignore warning signs...some more dire than others. This was a big one for you, and I believe your path should involve getting the root of how you were able to ignore this. For your own peace of mind, I suggest focusing on that so you don't repeat a similar pattern in future. 

However, he didn't scam/assault/whatever you because he was from MENA. You're bootstrapping (imo) as way of dealing with this in a way that I don't think is fair to yourself, to truly be able to put this behind you. I see you clutching at straws....'I'm not fat, I'm not ugly, I converted, I did blah blah blah'. It's not formulaic...none of those reasons will help you really put this to bed and deal with it. It's not as if any of these listed reasons could or would justify what happened to you.

Again, I wish you well and I'm very sorry you had to go through this. I hope you can see that I'm not posting here to 'pile up' on you, rather to offer you another perspective, that I feel will *truly* help you on the road to healing. 







 

VERY well put!

 


venusfire503FemaleMorocco2013-07-21 11:15:00
Middle East and North AfricaThe cold, hard truth about MENA "husbands"

Excuse me, or you are assuming things? First off you and the other posters have tried to justify the bad behavior done to me by painting me as the one with a problem, rather than looking at the situation for what it really is, a man who was a scam artist and played in my head, as dozens of other men have done on here to other women. You guys paint the woman as the culprit as a defense mechanism to convince yourself that the same won't happen to you because you are "mentally stable" and able to choose a good partner. Good luck. Remember that princes can turn into frogs overnight. Mwahhhh

 

If you don't learn, and take steps to prevent that from happening again (by NOT being blinded by lust, naive, etc) then you run the risk of it happening again.  Nothing is 100% fail-proof, but there are ways to minimize the chances of bad things happening (like eating healthy, wearing a seatbelt, and really taking a look at relationships before losing yourself in them).


venusfire503FemaleMorocco2013-07-21 11:12:00
Middle East and North AfricaThe cold, hard truth about MENA "husbands"

Maybe at the end of the day its the man who asks the woman to marry! I was 22 and blinded by lust. This guy took advantage and made lots of promises, in addition to throwing gifts and gold and fancy European trips at me. I am a very respectable person. I was just naive and lonely and I didn't know the truth about him until all these skeletons came popping out of his closet after our 1 year anniversary. THE POINT IS, it doesn't matter how careful somebody is or how loving a man seems, it is a big risk when you combine all these factors of visa interests and cultural differences combined with religion and distance. 

 

If the man asks, it's still the woman who says "yes" or "no" (I'm actually the one who first suggested marriage in my case).  It doesn't matter who asks anyway, you both still married each other. 

 

At least you admit that you were: blinded by lust, naive, and lonely - and fell for his ruse.  That's a promising sign.  Yes, he's a jerk who took advantage of you - no one is disputing that (as far as I've seen).  But we can't change a-holes.  All we can do is protect ourselves.  I don't think anyone here is 'blaming' you - we're just saying that you fell for him for whatever reason, and if you figure out how to prevent that in the future, then you'll be better off.  It's much easier to 'warn' others than figure out how to 'warn' ourselves sometimes.  Trust me, I look back at my first marriage and can't believe how stupid I was!  I'm just happy I didn't repeat my mistakes (we can't change the past).

 

I think the over-the-top courting would've been a red flag to me. When a man tries to dazzle a woman, I can't help but wonder what (if anything) he's trying to hide.  Kind of along the line of "if it seems too good to be true...."  Not saying a man can't spend money on a woman, but if that's how he 'makes' her fall for him, then there could be a problem.  I fell in love with my husband's heart, his consideration for me and my feelings, and the way he treated me (without money).  Yes, the visa is an additional risk, which is why I made sure to carefully listen to what he did (and did not) say, and how he felt about different things.  Most importantly, I am aware of his strengths and weaknesses.  No one's perfect, but we have to decide what flaws we can and cannot tolerate, and we need to be realistic about what we are/are not, and what our spouses are/are not.
 

Best of luck to all of us!


He paid for everything. 

 

Your dad is still financially responsible for him.


venusfire503FemaleMorocco2013-07-21 11:09:00
Middle East and North AfricaThe cold, hard truth about MENA "husbands"

Again, you are the one judging WITHOUT knowing the entire story. The abuse started AFTER marriage and whether the women on here want to admit it or not, I guarantee at least one of you has had to endure some type of physical or verbal abuse at the hands of a MENA spouse. 

 

YOU are judging everyone here without knowing OUR stories.  You think just because I'm an American married to a MENA man that I must have converted, lost my identity by taking on his culture, and that he'll some day turn on me.  And that must be true of all (or at least most) of the women who have married MENA men.

 

I know who I am.  Yes, I like some of the music he brought here with him (I've always liked being exposed to new music by people I know, ever since I was a child) just as he likes new music that he discovered here, and I occasionally cook the recipes he gave me (c'mon - couscous - who can blame me?) just as he's developed a taste for American foods,  I find it odd when people I meet assume I would've converted.  I tell them no, and he hasn't converted either.  Yes, I flew hours to visit with him (he couldn't do the same because of the difficulties in getting a tourist visa), but he LEFT THE ONLY LIFE HE KNEW to be with me in a totally unfamiliar and not always welcoming place.  He learned my language (which he barely knew at first - now he's fluent), and I barely know any of his.  I didn't even 'cover' when I visited his country.  If anything, he's done more and given up more than I have.

 

I was married to an emotionally abusive American before.  My MENA husband (NO quotes) has supported me and encouraged me (as I've done for him - I think that's vital to a good relationship), and I've not just survived, but I've risen to the challenges that I've encountered.  I've accomplished more in the 7+ years I've known him than I previously thought I could.  He has empowered me and helped me see what's wonderful about myself.  HE is not abusive.  I learned from the mistakes I made marrying my abusive ex.  We all just want you to do the same thing. 

 

You claim to be 'over' him and the relationship, but the fact that you feel the need to bash anyone with his "same" background (according to you - I think there are vast differences throughout the entire MENA area) and/or anyone in a MENA/non-MENA relationship says otherwise.  I don't feel the need to group all men from my ex's background with him, or warn others to avoid Italian-Americans (just self-centered, uncaring, manipulative men of ANY background).

 

We're not defensive about our men because we're afraid of anything within our relationships - we're just sick of the stereotyping, and the unfair discrimination against them by people who think they're all alike.  Oh, and the stereotyping of women who love them.


venusfire503FemaleMorocco2013-07-21 10:44:00
Middle East and North AfricaThe cold, hard truth about MENA "husbands"

 

Any man can change overnight. My mom's best friend, her husband had a brain injury in an accident. After surgeries and rehab he came home and wasn't the same. He verbally abused his wife and started cheating on her. He's about as WASP as WASP can be. 

 

For your information, I'm not defending blind love here. I have said some pretty reprehensible things on this forum to women who I thought were in their relationships with blinders on. I guess I was hoping to give them pause before they made what I thought would be a big mistake. I regret the delivery of my message now. But I still firmly believe people shouldn't rush into marriage without considering what the real challenges will be. I mean that about everyone, not just American-MENA couples. Divorce is expensive, no joke.

 

I know a woman whose husband changed (drastically) after 20+ years of marriage.  They're both "white Americans".


venusfire503FemaleMorocco2013-07-21 10:13:00
Middle East and North AfricaThe cold, hard truth about MENA "husbands"

You said one thing very right - it was YOUR story.  I don't think it's fair or accurate to try to pigeonhole all Muslim Arabs with your ex.  I did not convert or adopt the culture, and my husband and in-laws all treat me with love and respect. I think it was just your ex and his family.  My in-laws were only married once, to each other - and they were together until my father-in-law's death earlier this year. My husband has never hit me or abused me in any way - it wouldn't be tolerated in his family, nor by me.  He definitely considers me #1 - not his friends or family.

 

Maybe part of it is that my man didn't expect me to "alienate family, change religion, and entirely adopt his culture" - and I felt no need or desire to do so.  Despite your belief that that is part of MENA culture, I strongly disagree.  That's an abusive mindset, which is found in some people of all cultures.

 

Couldn't one also say, "NO respectable woman who cares about you will marry you after simply talking to you online a few months and meeting in person on a few vacations", which is apparently what you did?  It's not like you didn't have a choice, right?  (For what it's worth, we got married as soon as we possibly could, so I'm not bashing those who do.)

 

My point is that being MENA or getting married 'early' isn't a problem or a warning sign.  Not respecting someone, expecting them to change, and abusing someone - THOSE are problems/warning signs.


venusfire503FemaleMorocco2013-07-20 20:12:00
Middle East and North AfricaA Moroccan man just gave me some advice...you may not like it tho....

I see plenty of good posts here.  I admit I haven't been on VJ much for a while, and am unfamiliar with the people and situations.  But some things haven't changed.  There are still relationships that work, and some that don't.  I just want to put in my two cents, without claiming that what I have to say does or does not apply to any particular people.

 

One thing that I remember from the earlier days of my 'journey' is how annoying it was (and still is) when people bad-mouth/sterotype/pigeon hole MENA people and MENA/USC relationships.  Trust me, I completely understand that people who have been hurt emotionally (and also sometimes - but not always - have been used for immigration purposes) want to warn everyone else.  It makes sense to want to spare others the pain you're going through - I'm not a psychologist but am sure there's a deeper psychological reason, too, about taking back a sense of control of one's own situation by helping someone else avoid potential harm or something.  However, I think in their state of pain, too many over-do it and claim that ALL (fill in the blank - here, usually MENA men) are scammers who use women for visas/green cards/citizenship.  It makes others defensive, and can also actually push some to overlook certain things they might not accept otherwise.  If you keep hearing that younger Moroccan men always target older American women, for example (one thing I kept hearing), you might be more inclined to insist to others - and maybe yourself - that 'everyone' has to be wrong, because "that could never happen to me". 

 

Let's be honest.  Yes, it DOES happen.  Yes, even (fill in the blank - young, attractive, intelligent, confident - whatever you want to put in there) women can get scammed.  Yes, it's probably more likely when the women are older, wealthy, overweight, whatever.  But the thing is - and someone mentioned something about this - it's NOT IN EVERY CASE.  Even in the most sterotypical cases, it's possible that the man really does love the woman, has the best of intentions, and the relationship will last and be a good one. 

 

What used to bother me was that people made their assumptions on what they knew and could see, and not from any 'insider information' about our relationship.  I had people, when they heard I married someone from another country, tell me about some guy they knew who scammed someone for a green card, etc.  These people included friends, family members, and even people I barely knew.  I don't care how solid your relationship is, marriage is challenging.  Add in those other stressors such as the immigration process, being in different countries, the waiting, cultural adjustments, etc, and it's even more difficult to deal with.  Having people feel the need to tell you that you're probably being scammed (or being told you're crazy, etc) - especially when it's coming from a faceless online post - can bring out the worst in anyone!  No wonder there are arguments here!  It's annoying when it's coming from someone who has no idea what they're talking about (like a woman I know who never left the small town she was born in and turned white as a ghost when she met my husband), but it's downright scary when it comes from someone in an international relationship that didn't work out.

 

Then I wonder if I should tell our story.  I don't want to encourage anyone who actually is being scammed but hasn't figured it out yet.  Not mentioning anyone in particular (as I said, I'm unfamiliar with almost everyone here, except a few 'old-timers' who almost definitely are past the point where they could be scammed and not know it yet), but statistically speaking, there's bound to be at least one person in that situation who will read this.  I don't want my relationship to lull them into a false sense of security.  At the same time, I remember getting down sometimes because of all of the negativity directed toward me or others in relationships with MENA men.  As sure as I was about my SO, it was difficult at times to feel constantly badgered and/or 'warned' about men "like that".  I took solace in hearing about successful relationships, especially when they had similarities to my situation.

 

Then again, I feel that there are plenty of warnings about the scammers.  So, just to add a little balance: I am more than a decade older than my husband.  I met him online while going through a divorce, and I have children with my (American) ex-husband.  We had/have many of those "red flags" - such as differences in language, religion, culture, etc.  I had some money from my divorce, but we're currently experiencing financial difficulties like most people.  He's been a citizen for a few years now, and we've been married more than 7 years.  We're very happy together, and I don't foresee any problems.  I'm not recommending that people do things the way we did, but also want to say that it worked for us.

 

I think it's a good idea to read through the forums and get ideas of what has happened to others, and what works for some.  But don't think that your relationship is going to fit in the exact mould as someone else's.  Just be aware of what could happen (good or bad), and look honestly at yourself, your SO, and your relationship.  Don't assume that just because of A or B that your relationship is good to go, or that it's doomed.  It's not the things on paper that make or break a marriage, it's what's inside the people in it.

 

I was in a horrible, life-sucking marriage in the past, and now I'm in a wonderful, positive one, so I understand how it is on both ends of the spectrum.  I sincerely wish the best of luck to everyone!

 


venusfire503FemaleMorocco2014-01-25 00:25:00
Middle East and North AfricaLet's hear it from spouses of Morocco whose marriages are working!

I love this thread - I was just thinking it might be a good idea to have 2 pinned threads - one about relationships that didn't work out (what is most commonly posted), and another about relationships that are working.  It would be a good way to show both, and have some balance.  This way, if someone is concerned for any reason, they could read the 'warning' thread, but if they need to read something positive (the journey is so difficult, and hearing negative things is sometimes a little too much) they can read about the success stories.

 

I'm one of those who rarely makes an appearance, because my husband got his citizenship more than 2 years ago.  We celebrated our 7 year anniversary recently, and people who see us with each other are surprised we've been together so long because we're so happy!  We like to hang out together, even if it's just sitting on the couch, or shoveling snow (like today).  He sometimes surprises me at work by showing up to spend my lunch break with me - that always brightens my day.  We made it through the entire immigration process, from being in different countries, all the way up through citizenship, and beyond.  We were totally different people - on paper - when we met, but our hearts are very similar, which is why I think we've made it despite the odds.  We also take good care of each other, and make our marriage a priority.

 

venusfire

 


venusfire503FemaleMorocco2014-02-03 19:06:00
Middle East and North AfricaGreen Card holder, and going back home for a visit

Don't feel stupid - my husband was very nervous when he visited Morocco as a green card holder, too.  Everything went fine, though.  You don't need anything other than what you mentioned.

 

Enjoy your trip!

 

venusfire

 


venusfire503FemaleMorocco2014-02-03 19:23:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresSo I think I've screwed up...
QUOTE (ocelittle @ Aug 27 2008, 06:45 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
So I live in Las Vegas, and my fiance lives in Calgary. We have only been dating for about a year now, but I proposed to her almost two months ago.

Our plan was to get married in Calgary, and then have her move back to Vegas with me afterwards. We were both naive when thinking that was the entire process. After much prodding by my father, we finally called the US Consulate in Calgary and after paying a ridiculous per-minute charge of almost 2 dollars, we gleaned the information that if we get married in Canada, she won't be able to go to the USA for 6-12 months (obviously the time to apply and all that), and if she comes here to get married, she would be sent home to wait for the application times.

Now, that sounded a little sketchy, so I googled some information and found myself here. I was excited that I found an ACTIVE board online with up to date posts and regular visitors. I read a little bit more, about the K-1 Visa, but the whole thing is still confusing me.

We are getting married in 2 weeks (September 12th) and have basically planned everything already. Everything is paid for, everything is in order, except what happens afterward.

So I'm really thinking that we screwed up. For one, a shotgun wedding wasn't ideal, planning everything in 2 months, but we have been long distance for the entire time we've been together and we wanted to finally just be together.

I feel like I'm faced with three options.

1. Get married, apply, and wait patiently.
2. Move back to Canada (where I'm from), leaving a great job and a great place to live, and starting over (for the fourth time in the last 3 years)
3. Cancel the wedding.

Obviously, 3 isn't an option, but I included in anyway.

What should I do? Are those my only options? My fiance keeps calling me crying, and doesn't know what to do, thinks it's the end of the world. I don't know what to tell her anymore. How can this end well?


I don't know if this is possible, or even helps out with your situation (especially this close to the wedding date), but another option (for what it's worth) is to have the wedding, but just as a ceremony, not as a legally binding marriage - don't get the marriage license. I honestly don't know the rules about visiting between US and Canada, especially with K-1 or K-3 processes..... I'm sure someone else can help with that. I vaguely remember reading something about it in the past.
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2008-09-09 14:38:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNet income below poverty
Do you have any assets (bank accounts, etc.) other than your house? Those can be used in cases when the income is too low for the guidelines.
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2008-09-29 15:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSo, I think I screwed myself, Any hope? Religious Marriage
Is there anything either of you can get to prove that you're technically/legally single? In Morocco, they have some kind of form (forget what it's called) that my sweetie had to get to prove that he was single and legally free to marry in order to get his K-1 visa. I had to send my divorce decree (USA) from my first marriage. I think they probably did some kind of search when we applied for our marriage license too. There might be some kind of paper that either or both of you can get that shows you are legally free to marry which would then show that you aren't already married.

Best of luck!
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2008-09-09 14:07:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCan Marry while waiting for K1 Visa
Oh, and if you have the ceremony there before she gets here, DO NOT use the word "wedding" or "marriage" with USCIS - just say "engagement party", or don't mention it at all. No need to complicate things.
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2008-09-13 13:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCan Marry while waiting for K1 Visa
QUOTE (ScottBadet @ Sep 13 2008, 01:58 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I met my fiance over year ago in Philippines. I sent I- 129 in July, 2008. At first we where planning to marry once she arrived here in the US, but now we are planning to marry over in the Philippines so she will be with her family on her wedding day. So my question is this. Can we still get K1 visa, marry in Philippines and then summit paper work for the I- 130 once she arrives here in US. We will be married before the 90 day time frame runs out. In fact we are planning on getting married right after she gets her K1 visa, and then fly here to the US, and then right after her arrival summit the change of status, and I- 130 paper work. Is this OK to do, or should we just go back to original plan and marry here in US. I my self would rahter have a nice wedding in Philippines. Any ideas or info would be greatly appreciated.


You can always have a wedding ceremony to celebrate your future marriage, as long as you don't make it official/legally binding. In other words, you can have a religious ceremony, as long as you don't register it with the government. Another option is to have a really nice engagement party there before the visa.

Or go ahead and get married officially here, and then do the ceremony there later.

Whatever you do, DO NOT get legally married there and then use the K-1. I read about someone who did that, and then was deported with I believe a TEN YEAR BAN.
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2008-09-13 13:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresquestion regarding financial support
QUOTE (yohanes @ Nov 2 2008, 07:46 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
i dont know if i will be above the poverty guideline or not but i am making about 393 a week im not quite sure if i will be above poverty or not, if i have bank saving like 5,000 will that be good enough even though i am not above and have a minimum wage job, if it shows i have 5, 000 in savings will that be ok



Check this link for the guidelines: http://travel.state..../info_1327.html

It looks like you could be, depending on your family size. Just don't forget to add your fiance(e) when doing your calculations. Also, is the $393 per week before or after taxes? I'm not completely sure, but I think you get to use your before tax amount. Don't worry about the savings unless you're below the minimum.

Good luck!
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2008-11-02 18:57:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion about age differences
I am also 11 years older than my husband (we did K-1) - I'm 40, and he's 29. We also didn't know each other long (less than 7 months at the time of interview). Also, my ex-husband (American) was emotionally abusive. My second husband (Moroccan) is wonderful! He's been here almost 2 years now, and we're very happy. My kids love him, too.

He had no problem getting approved, although they did interview him for about 90 minutes. It was the woman, who I heard is a real hard-a$$ about interviewing and approving people. I think it might have helped that I visited twice before the interview, and was there for the third time during his interview. Make sure you have plenty of proof of the relationship, and tell him to remain calm no matter what they say. I honestly think it bothered her that she couldn't figure out a way to deny him or give him AP or 221g.

Best of luck!

venusfire503FemaleMorocco2008-12-17 17:13:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresShould I be at the interview with my Fiancee???
I think there's no way to predict if it will matter - I think there are so many variables - the country, etc. I went for several reasons - I didn't want to send my birth certificate and stuff (good thing - the papers I sent didn't get there in time - luckily my paranoid #### had a second set on hand on the plane); I wanted to go in if possible (it wasn't - I stood outside for HOURS, having the fun of being alone, nervous and trying to muddle my way through asking for water and a bathroom...); and I wanted to take the trip here with him.

Go if there's any way you can (it can't hurt and might help), don't sweat it if you can't. I'm sure many have been approved without, and some have been denied even with, the SO attending.

Best of luck!

venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-02-17 14:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWill first marriage to immigrant affect K-1 petition to new fiance?
QUOTE (venusfire503 @ Feb 1 2009, 09:21 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
The problem that might come up, if I read the post correctly, is that she stayed married to the first guy until he got his greencard, but was having a relationship with the new guy. [I'm not judging her - I met my new husband during the divorce proceedings with my first husband.] The reason USCIS might care about the situation is this... she needs to say how and when she met the new guy, and show proof of a relationship. I don't know if they'll notice that during the time she was establishing a relationship with him, she had to show proof of a valid marriage for the first guy to get his greencard. It's going to be difficult to figure out a way to explain this one.

Good luck


Just want to add that I don't intend to sound mean. I'm just not able to phrase things the way I want right now. I hope you know what I'm trying to say though. USCIS might just say that you can't be in a bona fide marriage at the same time you're starting a bona fide relationship with someone else. Unless you two met and were just friends until after the greencard was issued to your husband, they might not accept the situation.

Does that make sense?

Or am I just digging myself in deeper here?
Sorry....

venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-02-01 21:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWill first marriage to immigrant affect K-1 petition to new fiance?
The problem that might come up, if I read the post correctly, is that she stayed married to the first guy until he got his greencard, but was having a relationship with the new guy. [I'm not judging her - I met my new husband during the divorce proceedings with my first husband.] The reason USCIS might care about the situation is this... she needs to say how and when she met the new guy, and show proof of a relationship. I don't know if they'll notice that during the time she was establishing a relationship with him, she had to show proof of a valid marriage for the first guy to get his greencard. It's going to be difficult to figure out a way to explain this one.

Good luck

venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-02-01 21:21:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresage difference
My husband is 11 years younger, and from Morocco. Different religions, languages, backgrounds, etc. We had plenty of proof of a relationship, though, and he got here less than 3 months after I sent the petition. We've been married over 2 years now. We'll be sending in to remove conditions in a few months.

I think it all boils down to how your relationship appears to the interviewer. The lady who interviewed him for the K-1 kept asking him the same questions over and over, and when he held steady, I guess she was either convinced or decided to give up.

If it's real, and you're persistent and prepared, you should be ok.

Best of luck!

venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-02-28 22:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPosting Safety at VisaJourney
QUOTE (corinne from oz @ Apr 9 2009, 01:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
This is an anonymous posting, so I don't know why people get so touchy about some critiscism. I can say from my experience on VJ, the ones who have encountered critiscism, sometimes need to hear it because what they were thinking of doing was wrong, illegal or outright ridiculous. Perhaps some people cannot handle the truth.



That's not always true. Maybe sometimes the people who have received criticism have 'deserved' it, at least according to some. But not everyone who gets criticized was doing anything "wrong, illegal or outright ridiculous". I had to ask last year about the effect a false abuse allegation would have on my husband's status, especially when we would file to remove conditions. Thank God (literally) that he was cleared, but before he was (which took several months), our lives were hell. He did nothing wrong, I did nothing wrong, but we were both terrified that he would end up in jail and/or deported. I also believe if it happened, that my ex would use the opportunity to take my children away from me (which he tried to do anyway, based on the allegations even after they were declared false). So there I was, afraid of losing my husband, my children, and all my money (to legal fees), and then probably my house... As you could imagine, I wasn't exactly ready for the attacks I received when posting. Some people accused me of trying to cover for my husband, assuming (like many people) that anyone who gets accused 'must' be guilty. I had someone else accuse me of just trying to get rid of my husband because I must have gotten bored with him.

So yeah, this is anonymous, and yeah, no one can physically hurt anyone here. But to beat someone up verbally when they're down CAN 'hurt' them.

My ex used to tell me I was crazy, worthless, etc. Not everyone is lucky enough to have either had a life that didn't hurt them emotionally or a strong enough constitution to overcome whatever they did endure. I've definitely come a long way since my divorce, but believe me, almost 20 years of being told how worthless I was did take a toll. And some people get it from their parents, too, which is unavoidable. You don't always know what the poster is going through at the time.

I still post sometimes. But I can understand why some people might not want to. Yes, I also understand there are emotional risks to posting. I understand that some people aren't as tolerant as others. I understand that good advice might be lost because someone is too timid to post. I also realize that even the advice given publicly on the forum isn't 100% guaranteed either.

I appreciate all the people who do their best to be understanding, and not be rude. No, we don't have to sugarcoat things, but there are always more gentle and harsher ways to phrase things. Even if we think someone is being a real dumba##, it doesn't hurt to say what we have to say a little more neutrally (maybe they're being misunderstood in some cases). Remember, too, that some people who ARE being jerks really LOVE the attention they get by stirring others up. Why make them happy by obliging?

I'm not trying to upset people - just show them the 'other' side of the story, at least in my case.

Thanks for reading.

venusfire

Edited by venusfire503, 09 April 2009 - 03:54 PM.

venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-04-09 15:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCuban Fiancee
QUOTE (cali92057 @ Apr 5 2009, 02:52 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I am new to this so please bear with me. I an engaged to be married to a man in Cuba. My passport shows my visits but each time I go I must go through another country as we cannot go direct from the US to Cuba. My first question is will Immigration recognizes the application process because of this or should I get married to him in Cuba and attempt to bring him here that way. I thank anyone for your help with this matter.
Monique
Oceanside, California



Your passport should also have stamps from when you entered and exited Cuba, so that shouldn't be an issue. I sometimes went through London to get to Morocco, and had stamps for both countries. You can still do the K-1.

As far as wondering if you should get married first, that's something probably best asked of people who have gone through Cuba in the past - they can tell you which way is faster/easier. Sometimes it varies by country. You can also read up on the different visas to see if there are any reasons you might prefer one over another.

Good luck - I wish you a quick and hassle free journey!
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-04-05 14:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureshow to cancel attorney and if ok to cancel when u r in noa2?
QUOTE (MonkeyJuice @ Mar 12 2009, 05:22 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Yeh, we are thinking of firing our lawyer. They have been completely useless so far. We did all the chasing at USCIS, my fiance contacted the Senator. Then, they didn't even know that you can call NVC to check if the petition arrived there. My fiance had to call NVC to find out if they had received & sent out out petition to embassy & they take a week to answer emails.

So today we talked about it & decided it's not worth the $1800 fee as we are doing all the work. My fiance called them & they were very defensive & refusing to acknowledge they have been in any way incompetent.
We are just worried that he will hang on to all our documents as long as possible just to be awkward. It may just cause more delays & we've waited long enough already. whistling.gif


MonkeyJuice,

I completely understand your concern - I had to 'fire' my divorce lawyer, but the courthouse still sent my divorce decree to her. No one told me that at first, though - I actually heard through my ex that he got his copy. After some BS, I finally got my ex-lawyer to send me the divorce decree - and at that point, that was the ONLY thing keeping me from sending the K-1 packet! I hope someone knows how to make sure that YOU, and not the lawyer, will get all correspondence....

Best of luck!

venusfire

P.S. I didn't have much luck with my immigration lawyer either - he was helpful at one point, but most of the time, I did a better job (such as filling out forms). Also, he gave me what I later found out was BAD advice that I fortunately did not need to use (what to do if the K-1 was denied)
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-04-16 10:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresMarrying a US citizen - 2 questions/concerns ?
QUOTE (gublooo @ Apr 16 2009, 02:03 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Dear forum members,

I had 2 questions and wanted to know if someone can provide me with the right information.

1) If I go to US on a fiance visa and marry a US citizen, how long (average) does it take for me to get US citizenship.

2) Now if I want to sponsor my parents, I'm assuming I'll have to wait till I get my citizenship or can I do that before. So once I apply for their sponsorship - how long (average) before they can come to US.

Appreciate your help and time.
Thanks


gublooo,

Just a question - do you mean to bring your parents to VISIT, or to LIVE here? I thought you were asking about bringing them here permanently, but it seems some members are answering about bringing them here to visit...

venusfire
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-04-16 10:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHelp! I am so confused.
You might want to post your question in the regional forum - talk with someone who has done it already. I know with certain countries, it's very difficult to do K3, especially if the marriage takes place soon after meeting and/or soon after a divorce....

Best of luck!

venusfire
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-04-16 10:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK-1 about to expire yet no social security. Help!
QUOTE (TBoneTX @ Apr 21 2009, 12:40 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (rebeccajo @ Apr 20 2009, 08:07 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Always ring them or drop by in person if possible. It's far better than going by 'vanilla' info published on county websites.
This is absolutely the thing to do. Ironically, when our turn came, I phoned, and I was not told that I needed my SSN (or proof thereof) in order to receive a marriage license! Learning that reality upon showing up in person, I blew home, destroyed the inside of a drawer while fruitlessly looking for my SS card, and found only some U.S. savings bonds with my SSN on them. I took one back to the office; the clerk scratched her head, made a call to a supervisor, and said "OK!" That was the first and perhaps the last time that a savings bond will be submitted there for proof of a SSN, si man.

We married on Hallowe'en and had our celebratory party on Pearl Harbor Day, so who knows what that bodes for the marriage? At least we'll have our pick of good restaurants every Oct. 31, si man. smile.gif

Returning to being serious: Under any circumstances, do NOT (do NOT! do NOT!) let that 90-day requirement slip by before marrying! Do whatever it takes (Las Vegas, or whatever) to comply with it. And, to be precise: It's the I-94 that expires in 90 days. The K-1 visa is "dead on arrival" at POE.


We got caught with that, too. We were told on the phone that he'd need a social security number, so we went and applied. It didn't take too long, so we went to get the marriage license. THEN they told us "oh no, he doesn't need a SSN, but YOU need your actual SS# card". Sigh. Back to the social security office, then a wait for my actual card.... and I needed to apply soon after for one in my new name. It's ok, though - we got everything done in plenty of time.

That's a shame you've had to worry and wait. Best of luck getting everything done on time!

venusfire
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-04-21 14:18:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAge difference will matter for K1 Visa
QUOTE (Pattu Rani @ May 5 2009, 07:40 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My husband is 16 years younger than me and it is not 'normal' in Nepali culture for a man to marry an older woman, yet it was not mentioned in the interview.... Also we had a very short courtship(which is traditional in Nepal, but of course not where the bride is an older 'gori' woman) smile.gif Neither issue came up at all. I know of another Nepal couple with the same age gap, older woman, that was approved just recently with no problems. I was not able to be there for the interview but we had a lot of evidence - the CO was impressed that everything was well organized and spent most time looking at our photos... I was able to visit one more time after our wedding and we had lots of photos with his family and friends and photos in different places when we were traveling, as well as hotel receipts, travel documents, chat logs, Pingo(phone) records, etc. Make sure your fiance is confident(but not 'scripted') if he is asked how he and his family feel about your age difference and the possibility of not having children - hopefully neither question will come up but best to be prepared.


Pattu Rani,

I think you hit on 2 very important points - for any couple, but especially for those of us with 'red flags' (or whatever you want to call them). 1 - having everything (lots of evidence) well organized; 2 - the beneficiary needs to be confident and prepared (but not 'scripted').

If I had to bet on it, that's what helped us the most. We were very well prepared for the visa, and things went quickly and smoothly. For the AOS, we weren't as prepared. We got 2 RFEs and it took longer. We made sure to be better prepared this time (for ROC)!

venusfire
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-05-05 18:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAge difference will matter for K1 Visa
Oh, and if you're really concerned, it can't hurt to go to visit during the visa interview if that's possible (I know not everyone can - and others have gotten the visa without the USC going there). In my case, I stood outside for HOURS alone in the cold while they grilled the poor guy, but I think they knew I was there. I have no proof it helped, but if I hadn't gone, and he was denied, I think I would've been kicking myself.... Again, I know many have gotten the visa without, so don't get too worried if you can't go.

venusfire
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-05-04 15:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAge difference will matter for K1 Visa
QUOTE (JeremyR @ Apr 12 2009, 06:42 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
The basic requirements for a K-1 visa are:
1. That you have met in person in the past two years.
2. That you can demonstrate a genuine relationship.
3. That the beneficiary isn't inadmissible for other reasons (criminal past, medical risk, habitual drug user, etc).

There is no law prohibiting age-gap couples at any stage of the immigration process (such a law would undoubtedly be unconstitutional). If you tick those three boxes, you will be fine. Just make sure that you leave the consular officer at your visa interview with no doubt about the strength of your relationship.

To update my story posted further up this thread, the expected AOS interview never happened - green card received with no interview so once again, we were worrying that our age gap would prejudice our case for no reason.


Don't forget the other parts, too - 4 - they both must be free to marry, and 5 - that the USC has to prove enough income to sponsor the immigrant (or get a co-sponsor).

I really think if these 5 things are true, things will be fine, even if it takes a little longer for some.

If you have met in person within the last 2 years, have a clear history (no legal problems), are single, and have enough income, that's a good start. Without those 4 things, not much chance (fix what you can before applying). The only thing that you have to wonder about then is "can we prove a genuine relationship?" - that's the only thing that is really up to interpretation. That's why it's important to have as much proof as possible. The more you have, the less likely someone else is able to question your relationship and make it difficult or impossible to get the visa. If you have anything in your relationship that causes you (or others) concern (age gaps - esp the woman older, short relationship, very recent divorce, difference in religion/background, etc - and we had all of those), it's even more important to get solid evidence of a real relationship.

Best of luck!
venusfire
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-05-04 15:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresDoes Age Matter????
QUOTE (Isra @ May 4 2009, 05:44 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thank you venusfire that is really helpful information. I have a feeling I will be making another trip there since it appears we will have alot more time invested in this than I had thought in the beginning. I wont be able to be away from him the entire time so yes I will have to go there again.

I know he will do ok in the interview but that was a great idea about the binders, the rings and the receipts. I will use those suggestions if you dont mind. Thank you again!!!!


Isra,

Yes - please use any suggestions you find - mine or anyone else's. Do plenty of research - some people here post so much valuable information. I'm already on part 3 (1 was visa, 2 was 'greencard', 3 is removing conditions), and I still found some wonderful ideas on the forums about types of proof to send, ways to organize/package the information, etc. Someone somewhere had a good point. Imagine you're an officer, looking at files all of the time. Now, you see a disorganized file and a neat, orderly file, and it's the end of the day. Which one would you rather deal with? If you're like most people, that disorganized file will continually find itself thrown back on the bottom of the pile. Also, you're more likely to get RFE if they can't easily find things. I've put 'cover sheets' on individual sections when I thought extra explanations might be helpful. I read somewhere to put tabs in between sections (for removing conditions, I checked the USCIS website, and they requested them on the bottom of the pages).

Good luck!
venusfire
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-05-04 16:53:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresDoes Age Matter????
Isra,

I have another idea. If you can't afford to go again right now, what about saving up a little at a time until you can and THEN applying for the visa? Then you'll have more time since you met, as well as 2 trips to show that you're serious.

I think the most important thing is his ability to convince the interviewer of his seriousness about you. That can be done, as long as he is sincere. Save up as much proof as you can, and organize it nicely. Read through the forums for information about how others have done it. For our K-1, we had notebooks with things organized with tab separations, and all kinds of proof. Yes, email, phone calls, and trips are good. Lots of pictures. We also ordered our engraved (with our names inside) wedding bands (online, so we could pick them out together) during the process, and included the receipts in the binders he took to the interview.

I think all of the prep work was helpful. I made sure to fill out all forms and triple check them. I even filled out forms I wasn't sure I needed - some in French as well as English. We had so much information, we needed several binders. I really think the most important thing, though, was that my sweetie was very calm and persistent in the interview. He said he got that lady that everyone dreads, and that she kept saying things to him like "this relationship doesn't make sense", and asking him the same questions over and over. He just kept answering her, and didn't let it get to him. I like to say that either she was finally convinced, or just gave up. Either way, he's been here almost 2-1/2 years, and we're very happy.

Make sure to check out the MENA forums.

Best of luck!
venusfire
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-05-04 14:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG325A employment
Think of it this way - you worked FOR the agencies, just AT the companies. Just give the agency information as if you reported for work there and stayed there every day.

Good luck!

venusfire
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-05-10 16:22:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhat is necessary to start the K-1 process?
Waitinggent,

The guides will give you information about paperwork. You'll see there is more to the process than just filling out forms (read through the instructions, not just look over the forms). On the top of this K-1 forum, you'll see the place to click: Pinned: General K1 Guides and Info - once you click on that, look through the lists: Assembling the I-129F Package: Checklist and
Documentary Proof of Having Met in Person in the Past Two Years and an Ongoing Relationship
those two lists will let you know everything you will need to get started.

Make sure while you are visiting your SO, that you get plenty of pictures of the two of you together - you'll need them for the process. Also, get in the habit of saving things that will help show a relationship - phone bills, mail, etc. I find it helpful to have a specific place to store these things - not just for the visa process, but for the other steps that you'll do later.

Also, make sure to look through others' posts - you can get some good ideas and plenty of information.

Best of luck!

venusfire
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-05-28 16:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPetitioner at K1 Interview
Here's my advice to everyone waiting for the visa interview:

USC - go if you can, but don't lose sleep over it if you really can't go. Many (most?) get approved without the USC there, and a few will get 221g or denial even if they are.

Make more of an attempt to go if you have a case that might raise ANY red flags (knowing each other a short time, recent divorce before petition is sent, large age difference, differences in language/religion/culture, high-fraud country, etc). I'm not picking on anyone - those things (all the ones I listed) applied in our case. I went along for the interview, and ended up standing outside alone for hours. It was SO worth it, though.

1 - I wanted to be able to take the last few papers there in person, especially MY papers (birth certificate, etc). Good thing, too - the packet I sent (I made 2 copies of originals of the USICS forms) didn't get there until AFTER his interview (we didn't know his packet 3 would have an interview date already set - I thought we were super early with getting those papers done).

2 - Even though I wasn't allowed inside, they knew I was there. I have no proof, but I think it helped (esp. since we had all those 'red flags'). He took my passport in his pocket, but didn't actually show it to anyone. IF they wanted to talk with me for any reason, I was right outside. It was also interesting for me, trying to get along in the country for the first time without his help (had to pantomime to ask for the bathroom!)

3 - I was there to prepare him, and all the papers, for a few days before the interview. I would've been worrying at home, wondering if he had everything, if he was ready, if he was nervous, etc.

4 - I was with him when he announced to his family that he was leaving, and went along to say good-bye to all his friends and
family.

5 - I was with him for his journey to his new home. It was his first plane ride, first time out of the country, etc. He wasn't nervous because of my presence. Also, I didn't have to wonder how he was (good thing - we got stuck in London for 2 days).

6 - I didn't want to miss being part of the experience of him getting here.

7 - I also got the 'privilege' of being grilled with him when he first came through the airport. They really gave the two of us a hard time. As hateful as it was, I'm glad that he didn't have to go through it alone. I wonder if they would've been even ruder to him if he had been alone. Also, there's always the slight chance that they could've denied him entry (yes, even with a visa). I think that very slight chance was even smaller since I was with him. A friend of mine said they made his wife (from Brazil) cry three separate times when she was traveling back and forth. I'm not trying to make anyone nervous - I just wish I had been forewarned, so it wouldn't have been such a shock.

8 - It's more pleasant to travel together than wait nervously at the airport.

Again, in most cases, it probably won't make the least bit of difference as far as getting the visa. Look honestly at your situation, though, and think about whether you have a straight forward case, or if there's something that might raise eyebrows. If you are concerned, but really can't go, send email or something to your SO, explaining why you can't go, how much you wish you could, all your love, etc, and a note about where you can be reached during the time of the interview in case anyone has any questions for you. Have your loved one take that to the interview in case it comes up that you're not there.

Best of luck to everyone in your journeys. It's difficult (more for some than others), but it DOES eventually move forward. I can't believe he's been here almost 2-1/2 years now!

venusfire
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-06-09 13:18:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiling for K1 with a AGE GAP and evidence of meeting
QUOTE (MouadsWife @ May 4 2009, 05:15 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I finally found the MENA forum.. thats! :-D I thought you mean the envelope that I get after I mail the petition. The NOA or something like that. I understand it that when I get the NOA I am to mail to him the complete packet that I mailed to USCIS and he is to take that to his interview in Casablanca. So, when his visa is approved and he has it in hand, I will then get the 'conspicuous brown envelope' in the mail? unsure.gif And I take it to airport when he arrives?

As far as another trip I believe that is financially impossible. But I do have lots of emails as poof, and we have about 560 pics, and if I do say so myself we make a quite lovely couple...lol I think a blind person would not see that when the CO looks at the pics. Inshallah unsure.gif I can print out the phone cards that I bought, but I dont think I can get a list of the numbers I called with it. I will have to see.

Missy


Missy,

You're welcome!

Your SO will be the one handed the packet. Make sure he knows not to open it. You most likely will never see it (I only saw 'ours' because I went over with him so we could travel here together) since he'll have to hand it over before you'd see him in the airport. Make sure he keeps it in his carry on. Oh, and I'd recommend putting it inside a separate bag or something so it doesn't get ripped open accidently. (yes, I'm a little paranoid with things like this)

As far as the phone cards, are you buying them prepaid? I was doing that, but then found a rechargeable one online (flatrateonline.net) that has lower rates (we still use it for when he wants to call home) and allows you to print out a statement of the numbers you called. If you can find one with a better rate, it will save you more money, and then you can also have the 'bill' to print out as more proof of an ongoing relationship.

Also, do you two IM each other? You can save tons of money if you do that instead of calling. He can go to the internet cafe (if he doesn't have his own computer or a friend's to borrow) to IM you for far less than it costs you two to call each other. Since you are unemployed (as was I), you can adapt your schedule a little more to his and communicate online. The best part is, if you have a webcam and microphone, you can even see and hear each other - even better than the phone, and less expensive.

venusfire
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-05-04 16:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiling for K1 with a AGE GAP and evidence of meeting
QUOTE (MouadsWife @ May 4 2009, 03:45 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
No we are not married, but wear rings. I have told my fiance not to wear his ring at the interview, and we have omitted anything from out evidence showing our rings, or calling each other husband and wife.

As far as the interview goes, in Casablanca you are not allowed in the embassy. One the person being interview, the person with the sole purpose of being there, is allowed in.

I would like to go again, but being a single mother, unemployed (yes I have a sponsor), traveling again in not a wise idea on a budget as tight as mine at the time being.

Now... WHY CANT I BE NOSIE... Already you have me curious. Who gets the brown package? Is it for him? Do I mail it to him? Whats in the package????? lol Missy


You're right - you would not be allowed inside during the interview. I stood alone outside for hours. I'm glad I went, but I know many others don't go, and their SOs still get the visas.

I would recommend saving money for several reasons. First, if the process takes a long time (sometimes it does, sometimes it doesn't), you might want to visit again. Second, if you end up not visiting him before he gets here, it's always a good idea to have some extra money for things then (the marriage license, AOS, etc).

I noticed that you are unemployed. I would strongly advise you to research health insurance for him. My husband was very healthy all his life, but got very sick on the trip here, and ended up in the hospital with pneumonia. I guess with his system suddenly being attacked with new germs, plus the stress of such a big change in his life - a little much for him. I had insurance for him, so we ended up paying $400 instead of something like $10,000. We found a policy through Aetna that was about $140 or something a month (it's based on his age, so it might cost you even less). I know it's difficult to come up with even that amount, but see if you can swing it somehow. Better to figure out how to pay that than negotiate with a hospital for payments later. There are many websites that have tips on ways to save money (even making your own laundry detergent, washing your hair with baking soda instead of shampoo, etc).

Best of luck!

venusfire
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-05-04 16:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiling for K1 with a AGE GAP and evidence of meeting
QUOTE (MouadsWife @ May 4 2009, 03:52 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I forgot to ask... What is the MENA forum? Where is it?? Missy



On the main forum page, scroll down to General Discussion Area, look for the Regional Discussion part, and click on Middle East and North Africa (called MENA for short). You will find plenty of information there from others in relationships with Moroccans and other "MENA" people.

Oh, and for the packet you can't look in - it goes to immigration officers in the airport when he gets here (inchalla). If you open it, they will send him back instead of admitting him to the country. It's nothing you'd find interesting anyway - just paperwork that allows him to come here.


70 pictures sounds good. The most important thing to show is that you have an ongoing, serious relationship. Send the receipts for the phone cards, a print out of the calls if available, email samples over time, and whatever else you have. You can send the receipts for the rings, as well (just don't mention that you already wear them).


Best of luck!
venusfire



venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-05-04 16:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiling for K1 with a AGE GAP and evidence of meeting
QUOTE (Bobby_Umit @ May 4 2009, 02:53 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Unless there is some sort of "custom" against an age-difference marriage in that part of the world, that would not affect your petition, only at the interview would that be an issue.

One trip may raise eyeballs, but the instructions state "met in the last 2 years prior to sending in the petition".

It is all up to the CO. Looking at some of the posts relating to Morocco, you may be in for a bit of time. Do a search here with your country, and see what you can find.

MoadsWife? your not married yet, are you?


MouadsWife,

An age gap (with the woman older) is not that unusual in MENA couples (I'm 11 years older than my husband). You might want to check out the MENA forum if you haven't already. I would suggest reading through anyway - there's alot you might want to know about. First, you might run into some things you weren't expecting (I did). One thing that surprised me was the way people (even family) reacted, and things they said. Be prepared. Also, if you don't know yet, you'll hear about fraud. You'll want to be cautious, and also prepared for what you might hear from others. Not trying to scare you. I just wish I had been more prepared. It's a difficult journey, but worth it for most people.

Bobby_Umit, it seems to be a tradition in Morocco for engaged couples to refer to each other as husband and wife (we did), so they might not be actually married.

MouadsWife, if you are married, you'll have to do a spousal visa, not K-1. If you aren't married, do the K-1 BUT BE CAREFUL. NEVER REFER TO EACH OTHER AS HUSBAND AND WIFE IN PAPERWORK OR AT THE INTERVIEW UNTIL YOU ARE ACTUALLY MARRIED. I have heard of people who have meesed their process up. When my husband went to his visa interview, he saw a guy get a 221g because he called his fiancee his wife. Best of luck in the process. Hope to see you in the MENA forum!

venusfire



venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-05-04 14:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresjust waiting.... and waiting :-)
QUOTE (gregandlinda @ Jun 8 2009, 10:43 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi folks,
Greg and Erlinda here, we applied for our K1 on approx Feb 24, 2009 and receieved our receipt on March 2nd 2009.
Is it possible that it can be approved before the stated 6 months? it looks as if it can be according to some of the psts here or is that dependat on what counrty the benificiary is from??
My Fiancee is in the Philippines asn we have been living together in sin hahaha on line for over a year now. Skype is great and so is magic jack just in case you guys foine that you cant live without spending 8-12 hours a day toegterh even as far away as we are.
Well good luck to all you toher applicants and i hope all youre visas are approved and in quick tiome. I know how hard it is
Greg


Greg,

Yes, it is possible that it will take less than 6 months, but it can also take much longer. It's not really easy to predict. The timelines you will get are only estimates. I think country can be a factor, but so can many other things.

I remember the feeling - we used to be online (IM/cam) almost constantly... it started out appr 4 hours per night, and then it got to the point that I slept on the couch and we'd both keep our cams on, in case one of us woke up - then we could watch the other sleep. It's so wonderful when you're finally together!

Best of luck!
venusfire
venusfire503FemaleMorocco2009-06-08 22:10:00