ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
Middle East and North AfricaNew Complications
QUOTE (Nervously Waiting @ Dec 21 2007, 08:01 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (sunbird2013 @ Dec 19 2007, 05:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Sorry I haven't been on in a while. I need help/advice again. This time things are more complicated. As stated in my post a few weeks back, I went to Morocco in November to visit my honey. Well, to make a long story shorter, I came back with a present I didn't know I had, I'm expecting our baby. Wow. We were not planning for this. Now here is my/our dilemma. We did plan on getting married someday, but not this soon. Obviously we will have some proof of a relationship now. LOL I just don't know what to do. Should we apply for the K-1 and hope he makes it in time for the birth? Should I go there again while I can still travel, get married, file spouse visa form, and hope he makes it in time for the birth? I just have a feeling things will be denied because of how quickly things have happened. I am just confused on the best course of action. Any advice on which way is best, spouse or fiance visa in this case?



Hi, as a long term teacher, I can't help but ask how long you have known this man and how well you know him. I will give you the same advice I give to my students: Always be prepared to take care of yourself and any children you may have by yourself. I think that sort of sums it up. I hope you have a good job and are able to make some well-thought-out choices as to what is best for YOU and the BABY. Is this man a stable guy? Hard worker? Nice supportive family? How old is he? How old are you? Does he have a history of responsibility????? What is his reaction to all of this? How about his family--how do they feel? Everybody puts on a good face while "dating," we all do, but living with somebody is totally different, especially from a different culture. Is he a very strict Muslim? Does he have some good education/training that can help him once he gets here?

Pregnant women (at least Moroccan women) that aren't married are not treated very well in Morocco. I hope you are a strong woman and can keep it together through the upcoming months.

I don't mean to sound negative, just realistic. I do wish you the best and hope everything turns out well for you. Be good to yourself and we love and support your decisions.....D


PS--I went back and looked at your profile. I see that you are both in your 30's, so that helps. Do you have other kids? Are your parents supportive of you? All of these things you need to consider.
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-12-21 20:05:00
Middle East and North AfricaNew Complications
QUOTE (sunbird2013 @ Dec 19 2007, 05:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Sorry I haven't been on in a while. I need help/advice again. This time things are more complicated. As stated in my post a few weeks back, I went to Morocco in November to visit my honey. Well, to make a long story shorter, I came back with a present I didn't know I had, I'm expecting our baby. Wow. We were not planning for this. Now here is my/our dilemma. We did plan on getting married someday, but not this soon. Obviously we will have some proof of a relationship now. LOL I just don't know what to do. Should we apply for the K-1 and hope he makes it in time for the birth? Should I go there again while I can still travel, get married, file spouse visa form, and hope he makes it in time for the birth? I just have a feeling things will be denied because of how quickly things have happened. I am just confused on the best course of action. Any advice on which way is best, spouse or fiance visa in this case?



Hi, as a long term teacher, I can't help but ask how long you have known this man. I will give you the same advice I give to my students: Always be prepared to take care of yourself and any children you may have by yourself. I think that sort of sums it up. I hope you have a good job and are able to make some well-thought-out choices as to what is best for YOU and the BABY. Is this man a stable guy? Hard worker? Nice supportive family? How old is he? How old are you? Does he have a history of responsibility????? What is his reaction to all of this? How about his family--how do they feel?

Pregnant women (at least Moroccan women) that aren't married are not treated very well in Morocco. I hope you are a strong woman and can keep it together through the upcoming months.

I don't mean to sound negative, just realistic. I do wish you the best and hope everything turns out well for you. Be good to yourself and we love and support your decisions.....D
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-12-21 20:01:00
Middle East and North AfricaWHO PAYS FOR ALL THE PLANE TICKETS

I wish I could afford to pay for tickets, I'd have been to Egypt a looooong time ago.
My fiance is paying for the tickets and also for everything while I'm there for a month. He has the ticket money, just not the other money. Insha'allah it will only be another 4 months or so.

To the original poster, I'm sorry for your situation. It's a little confusing from all of your posts, but no one deserves to go through that.


Oh my gosh four more months???!!!! Melly you are the MOST patient person I have ever known!!!!!



I went over to a friends house tonight. We were talking and she was asking what I was waiting for on the trip to Egypt. When I told her money, she offered to pay for my flight. As a GIFT! Oddly enough, I told her I'd have to think about it. That's a pretty big gift.
:wacko: :D :help:




As for me, if things fall through with Hamid, I would never become involved with anyone outside USA again because of financial reasons and all of the effort involved. A person can easily go broke visiting fiance, etc. I try to look at each trip as a vacation, but always end up spending much more than planned. My shopping addiction doesn't help...lol. Like someone before me, I would give my attention to my dog...always loyal and faithful. :)
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-28 05:41:00
Middle East and North AfricaWHO PAYS FOR ALL THE PLANE TICKETS

Just a quick question for all the American women, did you pay for your plane ticket over to see your love, or did he pay for you? I understand they are from poor countries, but I am not that rich either, and not a sugar mama. Just really interested, because I have a husband in Egypt, whom I never talked to, but I paid for the plane ticket to see him and now i am paying all of this off working myself to an early grave. I guess I am a little old fashion and would like the man to take care of some of this, but maybe that is not the way things work. So please share with me who pays for what and did you feel kinda of mad if you have to pay all the bills, is it almost like buying a husband. That is how i feel now.




I agree with most of the advice you have received. At my age, I have learned this: TRUST YOUR GUT. Your gut is telling you the truth--something is not right about this man and this relationship. Dont waste time beating yourself up. You are not the one who is screwed up--he is. It is much better to be alone than have a relationship with an a--hole. Sounds easy...but my mom always said: Not one door closes that another one doesn't open. Each experience you have will make you stronger---you are only human after all. You know the truth and that you trusted somebody not worthy of your trust...better to be that way than a hardhearted person. I wish you luck and peace...Debbie
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-27 15:46:00
Middle East and North AfricaWHO PAYS FOR ALL THE PLANE TICKETS

Just a quick question for all the American women, did you pay for your plane ticket over to see your love, or did he pay for you? I understand they are from poor countries, but I am not that rich either, and not a sugar mama. Just really interested, because I have a husband in Egypt, whom I never talked to, but I paid for the plane ticket to see him and now i am paying all of this off working myself to an early grave. I guess I am a little old fashion and would like the man to take care of some of this, but maybe that is not the way things work. So please share with me who pays for what and did you feel kinda of mad if you have to pay all the bills, is it almost like buying a husband. That is how i feel now.




Like another person said, my SO could never save enough money for plane fare. Most make less than 200.00 a month, which just about covers food and maybe an occasional phone card--no entertainment. I have given him money for passport, some for me to rent an apartment in Casa while I was there. and money to go to the doctor and get medicine--which he would not have gone to on his own (and he has a painfully ruptured eardrum that wont heal up). Yes, this is costing lots of money but he is worth it. Also I look at coming to Morocco as a vacation after like 22 or more years with an ex spouse that would not go anywhere. I will be a long while paying off credit card, etc, but expect him to work when he gets here. I spend more than him, so what can I say??? lol

Oh, forgot to say I bought him a cheap computer so we can talk (we talk 3--5 hours a night) as it would cost him more than 10.00 a day for taxi and cyber cafe time (so figure at that his salary would not even cover that, much less food,etc), but I look at that as a good thing for me. Now we can talk when we want to and he isn't endangered walking the streets of Marrakech in the middle of the night after getting off the computer (since they are behind our time 4 hours). Best money I ever spent. And he does buy me gifts when he can. It's not his fault that he was born in a poor country, and I know he would do the same for me if he could. If I begin to feel used, I will stop doing it. Simple as that.


Forgot to add, we usually stay at his parent's house some of the time and usually another relative's, and they will not accept money to help them out--they are most generous and kind to me.
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-27 12:17:00
Middle East and North AfricaWHO PAYS FOR ALL THE PLANE TICKETS

Just a quick question for all the American women, did you pay for your plane ticket over to see your love, or did he pay for you? I understand they are from poor countries, but I am not that rich either, and not a sugar mama. Just really interested, because I have a husband in Egypt, whom I never talked to, but I paid for the plane ticket to see him and now i am paying all of this off working myself to an early grave. I guess I am a little old fashion and would like the man to take care of some of this, but maybe that is not the way things work. So please share with me who pays for what and did you feel kinda of mad if you have to pay all the bills, is it almost like buying a husband. That is how i feel now.




Like another person said, my SO could never save enough money for plane fare. Most make less than 200.00 a month, which just about covers food and maybe an occasional phone card--no entertainment. I have given him money for passport, some for me to rent an apartment in Casa while I was there. and money to go to the doctor and get medicine--which he would not have gone to on his own (and he has a painfully ruptured eardrum that wont heal up). Yes, this is costing lots of money but he is worth it. Also I look at coming to Morocco as a vacation after like 22 or more years with an ex spouse that would not go anywhere. I will be a long while paying off credit card, etc, but expect him to work when he gets here. I spend more than him, so what can I say??? lol

Oh, forgot to say I bought him a cheap computer so we can talk (we talk 3--5 hours a night) as it would cost him more than 10.00 a day for taxi and cyber cafe time (so figure at that his salary would not even cover that, much less food,etc), but I look at that as a good thing for me. Now we can talk when we want to and he isn't endangered walking the streets of Marrakech in the middle of the night after getting off the computer (since they are behind our time 4 hours). Best money I ever spent. And he does buy me gifts when he can. It's not his fault that he was born in a poor country, and I know he would do the same for me if he could. If I begin to feel used, I will stop doing it. Simple as that.
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-27 12:12:00
Middle East and North Africaquestion
[quote name='rachbel' date='Nov 25 2008, 08:30 AM' post='2426387']
hi all,
Ok i decided to book a round trip ticket from casa to los angeles, i just want to know if the return date should be inside the frame of the 90 days they give me to get married ?I know it is a waste of money to book a round trip, but it is better to be safe than sorry , right ?.Thanks.
[/quote


When we got word he would get his visa while I was there, I had to pay DOUBLE for his one way ticket back here. They wouldn't sell us a round trip which was cheaper. So I would go ahead and buy the round trip.
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2008-11-26 13:22:00
Middle East and North AfricaDo we need to register our marriage in Morocco?
We have been married a year. SHould we have registered our marriage (here in US) in Morocco? Or at the consulate here? thanks!!
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2008-11-26 14:34:00
Middle East and North AfricaMarrying a Moroccan
Hi--As you can see, I an new here. I just sent in the I-129 to Texas. However, after reading and such, I am worried about our age difference--he is almost 29, I'm 56. Do you think we will be denied his fiance visa because of this?

I just returned from Morocco after a wonderful 18 days, by the way.

I would just like advice and moral support as we go through this eternal maze. By the way, what does "touched" mean?

I appreciate any and all advice and moral support!! Thanks in advance, Debbie (and Hamid)

PS--ARE THERE ANY THINGS HAMID CAN DO TO GET READY FOR THE INTERVIEW THIS FAR IN ADVANCE? ALSO, DO MOST OF THESE FIANCE VISAS GET APPROVED?

Edited by dgintenn, 31 March 2007 - 08:37 AM.

MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-03-31 08:34:00
Middle East and North AfricaTwo more "dumb" questions

Hi everyone,

Let me start off by saying a big "thank you" to those of you with experience with this process and all the help and encouragement you give to others when things don't go as one wants and hopes it will. God Bless you all.

Yesterday, dgintenn asked what she thought was a "dumb" question. I'm the type person that thinks there is no such thing as a dumb or stupid question until it comes to my own questions. So here's my "dumb" question.

I was in Morocco this past February....my first "meet in person" visit. Tarek proposed to me the night before Valentine's Day and then gave me a ring the night of Valentine's Day. (Oh....my answer was "yes"). Exactly one week later, I was given henna. There really wasn't a big deal made about it. It was done at his house. His Mother and Grandmother were there as well as the lady that did it, of course, and her Mother and 2 year old daughter. Tarek and a friend of his were in and out during the 2-1/2 hour ordeal. He took pictures which I have put in an album intended for him to take with him to the interview. So here's the question.....Now I didn't consider this an engagement party, but will the consulate? And will the pictures be a good or bad thing?

Ok....here's another one. I'm going back to Morocco in September. That will be a 7 months span. Is that going to be considered a long gap in time between being with him?

I've been working on my "letter of intent" for a while now and I tend to want to explain EVERYTHING. So are these 2 questions legit and should I put something about them in my letter.....especially explaining the time frame between visits?

Thanks


Hi, dgintenn here. Thanks for the "there are no dumb questions" comment!!! :) :D I too, did the henna thing. In our case, it was an engagement party with family, but I sure don't see how that can be a bad thing. But knowing Casa, who knows. People are too fast to make snap judgments about these couple's intentions. Only the two people involved know their own circumstances and feelings.

I wish I had read more on here before we submitted Hamid's I-129 so I could address more on red flags. I will be going back in June for a month. My span will be 3 months. I'm sure many of us will tap out our savings seeing our SO thanks to Casa. Like I said, I wish I had explained a little more in my letter. I am gathering more evidence to take to Hamid for his interview. But to tell you the truth, after hearing all on this sight, I am so discouraged due to our age difference, fairly short relationship (by Casa standards), and my divorces. Most of these men have made it clear about their circumstances, such as whether or not they are poor, how they feel about merging cultures, whether they are looking for marriage and children, etc. These Moroccan men I have met (including Hamid, his friends, and others on the web) have, to the last person, been honest, sincere, working men who just want to meet a woman for a long-term relationship.

It's so unfair that a person sitting in Casa makes a snap judgment and effectively destroys many legit relationships. But Hamid and I have made up our minds we will keep appealing and refiling if necessary, until he gets to come here as we planned. If we lose appeals on two applications, we will probably get married and file a spousal visa and keep fighting this. If American relationships had to defer to Casa's standards, there would be very few relationships in the U.S.A. :angry:

By the way, he would just as soon I live there, but I can't retire right now, and health care is not so great there. Plus Americans would be giving up Medicare and other health care that you have paid a fortune into. I am going to look into teaching jobs in the future just in case. So if anybody has any info on that front, please let me know. Also, he would gladly sign a prenup, so it's hard to see how Casa can see these guys as golddiggers or green card grabbers, although I'm not stupid enough to think there aren't those types floating around. If a person is willing to invest years appealing, how can these be phony marriages and relationships?

I APPLAUD EACH AND EVERY PERSON ON THIS SITE--YOU ARE SO DEDICATED TO HELPING OTHERS AND IT IS GREATLY APPRECIATED!!!!! :thumbs:

IN SUMMARY (AND I KNOW YOU ARE SAYING, FINALLY, PRAISE ALLAH) IMMIGRATION NEEDS TO SPEND ITS MONEY GOING AFTER THE KNOWN PROBLEMS INSTEAD OF CREATING PROBLEMS FOR THE REST OF US!!! :wacko: <_< NOW I'LL SHUT UP, AT LEAST FOR THE MOMENT!!!! LOL
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-04-09 21:16:00
Middle East and North AfricaHave your husbands friends married American?

Since there's been so much talk about red flags lately I was wondering what you guys think or know about your foreign spouse's friends and if they have married American women and come to the US.

Do you think that could be a red flag? I know that having family members in the US can be a red flag and the Consulate might think that the man just wants to join his family... but what about your SO's friends?

So what do you guys think? Do you think that if your spouse has friends who marry American women as well that it's something to worry about or a potential red flag?



WELL, HERE'S A POSSIBLY RELATED QUESTION. I keep hearing this: Many devout Muslim men come here and get married to the person they love. Eventually, they become Americanized and begin clubbing, drinking, carousing, playing around with other women, spending money "like kid in a candy shop." Eventually divorced. (In one case, 4 of the 5 men ended up divorced that this person knew.) Especially if they marry an older woman (could it be they want a green card?) PLEASE UNDERSTAND THIS IS NOT MY OPINION, JUST WHAT I KEEP HEARING FROM MORE THAN A FEW MEN AND WOMEN WHO HAVE FRIENDS IN THE COMMUNITY SO PLEASE DON'T JUMP ME ABOUT THIS BEING MY OPINION. Just wondering if you have heard of this kind of thing happening a lot.


PS--WHAT I AM REALLY LOOKING FOR IS SUCCESS STORIES YOU HAVE HEARD INVOLVING AMERICAN WOMEN MARRYING MOROCCAN MEN. LIKE I SAID, PLEASE DON'T JUDGE ME THAT I AM CRITICIZING THE GUYS. I'M JUST WANTING TO SEE BOTH SIDES OF THIS COIN.
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-04-14 07:02:00
Middle East and North AfricaHave your husbands friends married American?

Since there's been so much talk about red flags lately I was wondering what you guys think or know about your foreign spouse's friends and if they have married American women and come to the US.

Do you think that could be a red flag? I know that having family members in the US can be a red flag and the Consulate might think that the man just wants to join his family... but what about your SO's friends?

So what do you guys think? Do you think that if your spouse has friends who marry American women as well that it's something to worry about or a potential red flag?



WELL, HERE'S A POSSIBLY RELATED QUESTION. I keep hearing this: Many devout Muslim men come here and get married to the person they love. Eventually, they become Americanized and begin clubbing, drinking, carousing, playing around with other women, spending money "like kid in a candy shop." Eventually divorced. (In one case, 4 of the 5 men ended up divorced that this person knew.) Especially if they marry an older woman (could it be they want a green card?) PLEASE UNDERSTAND THIS IS NOT MY OPINION, JUST WHAT I KEEP HEARING FROM MORE THAN A FEW MEN AND WOMEN WHO HAVE FRIENDS IN THE COMMUNITY SO PLEASE DON'T JUMP ME ABOUT THIS BEING MY OPINION. Just wondering if you have heard of this kind of thing happening a lot.
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-04-14 06:34:00
Middle East and North AfricaInterview!

So finally we have been granted an interview for our K-1 visa...I just wanted to ask anyone if there is any advice out there for us. Thanks.

Fouad



START DRINKING HEAVILY....LOL :whistle: Sorry, couldn't resist using that line from Animal House. Really, I wish you all the luck in the world with this craziness!! Debbie
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-04-21 19:09:00
Middle East and North AfricaIS IT EVER HOPELESS????

You don't lose your American citizenship by living overseas. Is that what you were asking? Or whether he would lose his permanent residency if you moved back?



I guess what I am wondering is (and this is a health insurance issue and don't know if it's the same in Canada) how long a person has to be in the USA for authorities to know that they do have residency and can keep getting health insurance. For example, I am with Blue Cross, and they said if you live over there, you do not get insurance, same with Medicare in the USA. I'm wondering if a person can fly back and forth for health care. Sorry to be so ignorant on this. Thanks Caladan for your input.


Oh, residency for your health care. That's going to depend on the health care plan and its details. C.'s insurance won't cover him in the U.S. He's going to buy traveler's insurance for three months, until we're married so I can put him onto mine.

But you'll have to check with your plan. My guess, based on my health care plan, is that it won't cover anything overseas with the possible exception of emergency care, but that if you're paid up, if you fly back for a checkup with your on-network doctor, that would be covered. Fortunately, that's between you and your insurance company, and doesn't involve the department of state.

--

According to the nice link upthread, Casa had 865 or so immediate relative petitions approved last year. The link didn't say out of how many, but I'm sure that information's out there. What's striking is how many visas were approved out of Morocco compared to the surrounding areas. Or hell, even compared to Canada, which had 1200 or so. If there's been an uptick in "hey, here's a great way to get to the U.S." or even just more internet access in the country, that could explain the extra scrutiny.


CALADAN--I have to say that in Morocco, I saw a refreshing lack of materialism in the people I met versus us here in the USA. I mean, hell, they are happy with a good meal and a nice place to stay. We here in the USA are scratching and clawing to get a bigger car, better house, all that #######. I admire their lack of stress and diet-induced health problems, and all that stuff. That is why I wouldn't mind living there. Now if I was 30, who knows? lol Also, as for online relationships, he is so much more mature than the guys I met in their 30's, 40's, and 50's. No games, no bullsh--. And if he's acting, I will insist he get an Oscar for BEST PERFORMANCE BY A FOREIGN ACTOR." :lol: I mean, it's possible he is in it for the green card, but I suppose every marriage could have hidden agendas. So, at this point, only time will tell, as with all relationships. Thanks for your input!!!
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-05-06 13:18:00
Middle East and North AfricaIS IT EVER HOPELESS????

What is weird is. how come CASA has the biggest amount of Returned petitons.
I think that is strange because, there are age gaps and stuff in other nations.
course Pakistan embassy loves to give endless Admin processing to people. that because, of national security. but, how come CASA has this reputation? anyone knows?



YES, BABYBUNNY, exactly. Does anyone know the exact percentage of those being rejected on the fiance visas and the spouse visas? I will be surprised if the consulate there publishes it. I know someone will say cuz Morocco has lots of terrorists, but that's racist. There are crazies everywhere, including folks from countries that don't even need visas to visit other countries.
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-05-06 12:42:00
Middle East and North AfricaIS IT EVER HOPELESS????

You don't lose your American citizenship by living overseas. Is that what you were asking? Or whether he would lose his permanent residency if you moved back?



I guess what I am wondering is (and this is a health insurance issue and don't know if it's the same in Canada) how long a person has to be in the USA for authorities to know that they do have residency and can keep getting health insurance. For example, I am with Blue Cross, and they said if you live over there, you do not get insurance, same with Medicare in the USA. I'm wondering if a person can fly back and forth for health care. Sorry to be so ignorant on this. Thanks Caladan for your input.
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-05-06 12:38:00
Middle East and North AfricaIS IT EVER HOPELESS????

I've always said that a large age gap is merely one piece of the overall puzzle. A lot of folks with a substantial difference in age have been approved. And there have been cases involving couples who were of similar ages, and both of Arab heritage or both of the same faith, that were returned.

However, it must be pointed out that if you look at the cases we've seen here on VJ that were sent back in Casa, the great majority DO involve an age gap -- it's the common factor that jumps right out at you. (I am not saying it was the only factor -- I am sure that the Consulate considered all other issues as well before making a final decision.)

But from the record we've seen here, being a "cross-cultural" couple does not seem to be setting off as much scrutiny at the Consulate as do the following: a large age gap, a questionable ability to communicate in a common language, a close relationship with the SO's family members/friends before meeting/marrying/becoming engaged to the SO, or money being exchanged. Age is not the only factor, but it is apparently one to which the Casablanca Consulate pays a whole lot of attention.

I guess what I'm trying to say is -- it's not just a matter of people here in VJ focusing on it. In Morocco, the Consulate itself (whether one agrees with the reasoning or not) is looking very intently at the issue of age difference when putting the pieces of the puzzle together. It's been a common factor in returned case after returned case. Apparently, Casa has seen a lot of fraud involving this type of situation, hence their close attention to it. It doesn't mean an age factor will get you an automatic denial -- of course not ! But it is something they will look at more closely than issues like ethnic or cultural origin.

The discussion here is not picking on anyone personally, and I really don't want anyone to feel that their own relationship is on trial here. LOL we all know it's up to the Consulate to do that :lol:

But quite frankly, people who have an age gap need to know how to address this issue specifically, rather than wasting their time worrying about being denied at the Consulate because they're not both Arab.


THANKS FOR ALL THE INFO!!! I REALLY DO APPRECIATE IT. I HAVE MET ALL OF HAMID'S FAMILY AND THEY WERE WONDERFUL TO ME---TOTALLY ACCEPTING OF ME, WHICH SORT OF SURPRISED ME SINCE I AM OLDER. HIS SISTERS BECAME LIKE MY SISTERS. IN FACT, I STAYED AT HIS HOUSE WITH THEM/HIM. WE HAD THE ENGAGEMENT CEREMONY WITH THE EXCHANGE OF RINGS. I HAD MET HIS MOM AND SISTER ONLINE PREVIOUS TO MEETING THEM IN PERSON. THEY ALL WERE GREAT!!!! THEY ONLY WANT TO SEE HIM HAPPY. ALSO, HE NOW SPEAKS ENGLISH, WE BOTH DON'T WANT KIDS, HE IS ACCEPTING OF MY SORT OF LAPSED CHRISTIANITY, I ACCEPT THAT HE WANTS TO CELEBRATE RAMADAN, ETC. AND PRAY AS HE WANTS TO. I MEAN, REALLY, WE JUST WANT TO BE TOGETHER AND ENJOY OUR LIVES, IT'S NOT LIKE WE ARE A MAJOR THREAT TO ANYBODY'S SECURITY--LOL. WE TOTALLY RESPECT EACH OTHER'S BELIEFS AND LIVES.

HE HAD BEEN IN A LONG TERM RELATIONSHIP (4 YEARS) WITH A MOROCCAN WOMAN. SHE WAS ALSO OLDER. HE HAS BEEN ON HIS OWN SINCE HE WAS 16 AND HAS A GOOD LIFE AS IT IS. HE HAS NEVER PRETENDED TO BE ANYTHING OTHER THAN WHAT HE IS. ON HIS PROFILE, HE SAID HE WAS LOOKING FOR MARRIAGE AND HE TOLD ME RIGHT OFF HE WAS POOR, HAD A GOOD LIFE, BUT WAS LONELY FOR A LONG TERM RELATIONSHIP. HE HAS A JOB THERE THAT HE ENJOYS AND MAKES DECENT MONEY. LIKE I SAID BEFORE, HE WOULD JUST AS SOON THAT I COME AND LIVE THERE. BY THE WAY, IS IT POSSIBLE TO LIVE THERE LONG-TERM AND RETAIN AMERICAN RESIDENCY? DOES ANYBODY KNOW????
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-05-06 11:23:00
Middle East and North AfricaIS IT EVER HOPELESS????

Older women being hit on by younger men is a growing phenomenon. When I was single, it happened to me quite frequently, and almost exclusively be Arab men, as I am easily identifiable as Arab to other Arabs, and I live in an area heavily populated by immigrants.

From my experience, I would say that the mystique of the foreign woman, and, no offense meant, the foreign white woman, is a draw for some. You can be as exotic to them as they can be to you.




I SHOULD HAVE CLARIFED THIS. I WAS ON I THINK 4 SITES AT THE SAME TIME. AND MOST OF THOSE GUYS WERE AMERICANS, NOT FOREIGNERS. I'D SAY 75% AMERICAN, AT LEAST.
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-05-06 11:10:00
Middle East and North AfricaIS IT EVER HOPELESS????

I want to also add that I would also question a more than 20 year age difference between a USC and a beneficiary (no matter the country or the gender). This regularly does not happen in most cultures.

Casa can be intimidating. However, they are trying to do their job with little staff and even less funding. If they truly question the validity of the relationship, they don't have the time or resources to investigate or even schedule another interview. It is much easier if the case is not laid out in front of them in the petition to send it back and let USCIS deal with it.



SO, one more question. If the case gets sent back to the USCIS, does somebody here in the USA decide the case? Does that mean we get to add more evidence before they decide it? And is the decision final or can we keep appealing it? Thanks for the info!! Debbie



ONE MORE THING TO ALL READING THIS POST: Hamid was invited by a friend who owns a business to move to England and this guy would sponsor him. But he didn't do it. His brother lives in Spain and wanted him to come there to be with him, but Hamid didn't want to leave Morocco. He also has a friend in Italy who wanted him to come there, but he didn't want to. Also, he would just as soon stay there and have me move there, but I can't do that due to health insurance and such. So, my point is, he has had more than once chance to leave Morocco if that was his reason for wanting a visa. Believe it or not... that is your choice. I am trying my best not to judge people on this site, and I would respectfully ask you to do the same. Yes, we have an age difference, but he looks older and I look younger. Go figure....People don't always fall in love with folks that other people deem appropriate, but only God can figure that one out. Thanks for listening! Debbie


Read what I wrote, because if all you got out of the post was "Caladan is saying my relationship is fraudulent", you really need to re-read it. I did not say Hamid is using you for a visa. Really. Re-read the whole thing. I didn't even mention age gaps as a red flag. How could I possibly be judging your relationship based on that when I don't know how old you are?

Okay? This isn't about attacking you. Re-read it. Not attacking you. Saying there is a high-ish rate of fraud in Morocco is not. attacking. you. Read some of the posts here.

I am not saying that your relationship is fraudulent. I am saying, however, that you need to be honest with yourself about what your case could look like to a consular officer before you decide, before you have your NOA2, that you're being discriminated against.

And it is more than just an age gap. People with age gaps get approved. Language, religion, your familiarity, the culture, his educational background, whether you're Arab, how you met, how long you've known each other. It seems that it's not just any one thing (why a discrimination suit is going to fail, by the way), but whether when the consulate looks at the application they get a sense of whether you're legit or not.




NO NO NO--I WASN'T SAYING ANYBODY WAS JUDGING ME. NO WAY. I'M JUST PREPARING IN CASE SOMEBODY FEELS THE NEED TO BLAST ME (FROM READING SOME PREVIOUS POSTS). ANWAY, I TRULY UNDERSTAND THE AGE THING AND ALL THE OTHER RED FLAG ISSUES. I'M NOT A TOTAL MORON (HEE, HEE, WELL HALF MAYBE, JK) :P .

ANYWAY, I AM TRULY GRATEFUL FOR ALL AND ANY INFO AND ADVICE. NOT BEING CRITICAL OF ANYBODY HERE IN THE LEAST. I AM SOOOO GLAD THAT THERE ARE FOLKS HERE TO HELP THE NEW ONES FIGURE OUT HOW TO WORK ON THIS VISA STUFF. AND I UNDERSTAND WE HAVE TO STEP BACK AND LOOK AT IT FROM THE CONSULATE'S PERSPECTIVE. MY THOUGHT IS, IF WE HANG IN THERE FOR SEVERAL YEARS, I CAN'T SEE HOW THEY CAN KEEP IGNORING US AND THE SERIOUSNESS OF OUR RELATIONSHIP. I IMAGINE THAT IF A GUY WAS REALLY LOOKING FOR A WAY TO THE USA OR ANYWHERE ELSE, THEY WOULD MOVE ON AFTER A WHILE AND TRY TO FIND A BETTER PERSON TO USE. AND IN DEFENSE OF MOROCCAN MEN, I HAVE HEARD FROM A FEW WOMEN ON OTHER SITES THAT ARE TREATING THESE GUYS LIKE DIRT--PLAYING GAMES, LEADING THEM ON WHEN THEY ARE MARRIED OR ALREADY HAVE SIGNIFICANT OTHERS , ETC. BUT THEN AGAIN, I GUESS THAT'S LIFE ONLINE. IT'S LIKE, LET THE CHATTER BEWARE-- B)

ANYWAY.......TO ANSWER SOMEBODY THAT WONDERED IF I GET HIT ON BY YOUNGER MEN. THE ANSWER IS YES, I HEAR FROM LOTS OF YOUNGER MEN THAT LIKE OLDER WOMEN, WITH AGES FROM 18 UP. AND LOTS WANT A SERIOUS RELATIONSHIP, SO IT'S NOT LIKE HAMID IS THE FIRST ONE THAT I HAVE CHATTED WITH, ETC. THERE ARE LOTS OF YOUNG MEN THAT ARE SEEKING RELATIONSHIPS WITH OLDER WOMEN, AND NOT NECESSARILY JUST FOR SEX, BUT THAT'S ANOTHER ISSUE. I WILL POST A PIC WHEN I FIGURE OUT HOW TO GET IT DONE. FOR SOME REASON, IT SAYS THE PICS ARE TOO BIG. BELIEVE ME, AFTER HEARING FROM PROBABLY 500-600 GUYS ALL OVER THE WORLD IN THE 8 MONTHS I WAS ON, A PERSON CAN USUALLY SPOT FRAUD AND BS A MILE AWAY. I KNOW THEY ARE OUT THERE LURKING, LOL ANYWAY, HOPE THIS HELPS ADDRESS SOME OF YOUR QUESTIONS.
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-05-06 10:16:00
Middle East and North AfricaIS IT EVER HOPELESS????

I want to also add that I would also question a more than 20 year age difference between a USC and a beneficiary (no matter the country or the gender). This regularly does not happen in most cultures.

Casa can be intimidating. However, they are trying to do their job with little staff and even less funding. If they truly question the validity of the relationship, they don't have the time or resources to investigate or even schedule another interview. It is much easier if the case is not laid out in front of them in the petition to send it back and let USCIS deal with it.



SO, one more question. If the case gets sent back to the USCIS, does somebody here in the USA decide the case? Does that mean we get to add more evidence before they decide it? And is the decision final or can we keep appealing it? Thanks for the info!! Debbie



ONE MORE THING TO ALL READING THIS POST: Hamid was invited by a friend who owns a business to move to England and this guy would sponsor him. But he didn't do it. His brother lives in Spain and wanted him to come there to be with him, but Hamid didn't want to leave Morocco. He also has a friend in Italy who wanted him to come there, but he didn't want to. Also, he would just as soon stay there and have me move there, but I can't do that due to health insurance and such. So, my point is, he has had more than once chance to leave Morocco if that was his reason for wanting a visa. Believe it or not... that is your choice. I am trying my best not to judge people on this site, and I would respectfully ask you to do the same. Yes, we have an age difference, but he looks older and I look younger. Go figure....People don't always fall in love with folks that other people deem appropriate, but only God can figure that one out. Thanks for listening! Debbie
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-05-06 07:36:00
Middle East and North AfricaIS IT EVER HOPELESS????

I want to also add that I would also question a more than 20 year age difference between a USC and a beneficiary (no matter the country or the gender). This regularly does not happen in most cultures.

Casa can be intimidating. However, they are trying to do their job with little staff and even less funding. If they truly question the validity of the relationship, they don't have the time or resources to investigate or even schedule another interview. It is much easier if the case is not laid out in front of them in the petition to send it back and let USCIS deal with it.



SO, one more question. If the case gets sent back to the USCIS, does somebody here in the USA decide the case? Does that mean we get to add more evidence before they decide it? And is the decision final or can we keep appealing it? Thanks for the info!! Debbie
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-05-06 07:30:00
Middle East and North AfricaIS IT EVER HOPELESS????
Hi everybody--I have a few questions that I would like members to address if they would please..... :help:

1. IS IT EVER TOTALLY HOPELESS TRYING TO GET A FIANCE OR SPOUSE OUT OF MOROCCO AND TO THE U.S.A.? If we keep trying long enough, can we eventually get Hamid here? And what is the longest it has taken to get a SO to the U.S.A. that you know of?

2. HOW MANY TIMES CAN A PERSON APPEAL A K-1 REJECTION? OR DOES A PERSON HAVE TO FILE A NEW K-1 PETITION TIME AFTER TIME?

3. WOULD IT BE BETTER AFTER A FEW APPEALS TO GO AHEAD AND GET MARRIED IN MOROCCO AND FILE FOR A SPOUSE VISA? I mean, geeze, if a person waits a few years for their SO, how in the hell can the people sitting in Casa say that this is a fraudulent case?

4. DO THEY GIVE A RAT'S BUTT IF A FIANCE OR SPOUSE GOES BANKRUPT DOING THIS ####### AND/OR VISITING THEIR SO IN ANOTHER COUNTRY? Never mind, I think I can answer that one with a resounding NO.

5. DOES IT DO ANY GOOD TO GET OUR SENATORS AND OTHER REPRESENTATIVES HELPING US? WHAT CAN THEY DO? CAN THEY INTERVENE BEFORE THOSE PEOPLE IN CASA REJECT OUR CASE?

6. WHO IS IN CHARGE OF THE PEOPLE IN CASA WHO ARE MAKING THESE SNAP JUDGMENTS THAT AFFECT THE REST OF OUR LIVES? DOESN'T ANYONE HAVE ANY SAY OVER THOSE FOLKS? I KNOW THERE ARE FRAUDULENT CASES, BUT 70% REJECTION RATE? COME ON, GET A GRIP, CASA.

7. I WILL KEEP VISITING HAMID EVERY SCHOOL BREAK UNTIL HE GETS HERE. ANYBODY KNOW HOW MANY A PERSON HAS TO MAKE BEFORE CASA CONSIDERS THIS A "VALID RELATIONSHIP"? WHAT WILL GIVE OUT FIRST, MY MONEY OR CASA? (LOL, SORRY, COULDN'T RESIST SAYING THAT!!!)

8. I READ THE LAWYER FELLA'S ARTICLE ON HERE RECENTLY. HOW WILL I KNOW WHERE THE PAPERS ARE SENT SO THAT I CAN CHASE THEM DOWN? HE SAID THAT IF WE DON'T RESPOND TO THE PAPERS BEING SENT BACK, WE ARE S.O.L. (AND IF YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT THAT MEANS, IT IS "SH-- OUT OF LUCK." SOUTHERN SAYING)?

9. WHO IS IN CHARGE OF ALL THIS #######? WHO IS MAKING THESE INSANE RULES?

10. IS THERE ANY WAY TO SEND ADDITIONAL INFO SO THAT IT CAN "CATCH UP" TO THE VISA TO GIVE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT OUR RELATIONSHIP IN THE FORM OF A LETTER OR SUCH?

THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH, VJ MEMBERS, YOU HAVE MADE ALL THIS BEARABLE. I appreciate each and every word of advice and support you can give. It seems bizarre that a person in Casa can sit and make a 15 minute judgment that ruins the rest of our lives. I'm betting most American (and other country) marriages couldn't hold up under this much scrutiny.

By the way, I was reading where they are going to raise all of the visa fees so "things can go faster" .DOES THIS MEAN THE INTERVIEW WILL TAKE 5 MINUTES RATHER THAN THE USUAL 15 TO DECIDE OUR FATES? Just kidding, sorta...... :whistle:
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-05-05 19:01:00
Middle East and North AfricaHow well does your SO speak and use your language?
Hi all--Hamid started taking English lessons about about 7 months ago. We can communicate very well now is writing and in person. He speaks French and Arabic. Sometimes on mic, we have to type what we are saying, but this seems to be more of a problem with the noise in the cyber cafe. When I was there last month, I think we had to write down the word we were trying to say 2 times in 3 weeks, so he is doing great.

I like to mess with him by saying figures of speech, which truly puzzle them, but then I am left trying to explain what they mean. If I compare our beginning IM's with how he writes now, there is no comparison. I have to say my habibi must be a fast language learner--I am SO proud of him!!!! Debbie (and Hamid)

Also, having a southern accent doesn't help, I'm sure!! :lol:

PS--Still haven't gotten my check cashed in Texas, it's been since March 29 since it was sent!!

PPS or PSS (can't remember which): still trying to teach him to say ya'll correctly, but then again, my northern friends can't say it correctly either!!

Edited by dgintenn, 11 April 2007 - 03:54 PM.

MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-04-11 15:52:00
Middle East and North AfricaNEED HELP WITH MEDICAL ISSUES

Hi, I just wanted to add that as far as I know you can get medical help for free over there. It's just better when you pay. But it's free, I'm pretty sure.


Hi again--Well, so far, it hasn't been free. When I was there before, he had to pay both the doctors he went to. And this time, he had to pay again. As for hospital care, I haven't found that out yet. Thanks for the info. D
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-05-13 14:52:00
Middle East and North AfricaNEED HELP WITH MEDICAL ISSUES

i've been to morocco in june and july.... definitely hot, but worth it! :D just don't take a train in the middle of the day. i took one from marrakech to casablanca last summer during july... and like idiots we went in the day instead of night... and i literally thought i was going to die from heat! six of the worst hours of my entire life!!!!!! lol but hey, now i can laugh about it. :dead:

sorry about your fiance's health problems. my fiance injured his knee working out and he's afraid to go to the doctor. i'm hoping he can get here soon so i can put him on my insurance and he can see a doctor here. wishful thinking, i know. good luck!!!


Hi again--I thought of that also, but wouldn't this be a pre-existing condition, thus exempt from coverage? This doctor told Hamid this was an old problem. But hey, now that I think about it, Hamid really didn't know about it previously anyway.

Also, he would be willing to go to a doctor in another city if we knew of a decent one.

As for June, I have no choice cuz I have to go when school is out. I am hot natured and am prepared to be miserable as far as heat--well, never prepared for that. My next break is in September, Ramadan of course (lol), and I know he will get turned down for his visa (damn it) so I know I will be going then. I'm trying to look at it as a miraculous surprise and miracle if his visa gets approved (applied end of March). The question becomes: WHAT GIVES OUT FIRST---THE VISA OR THE MONEY FOR THE TRIPS???? This whole issue is just so demoralizing when you want to be with your man.

Anway, I appreciate all of the support and ideas I get on here!!! Thanks, everyone!!!
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-05-13 06:44:00
Middle East and North AfricaNEED HELP WITH MEDICAL ISSUES
Hi Friends--I know this is off topic, but I also know that if anyone can give good advice, it is you!!!

Hamid has been having ear problems and has a ruptured eardrum. Yesterday, he found out that he has had this problem for a long time, and he is now in lots of pain. He went to a doctor yesterday who advised surgery. I am not completely sure of all the details, as he can't come up with the technical words from the doctor in English, but I think he is saying that he needs the eardrum repaired, perhaps more. If not, he could lose his hearing and continue to have these recurring painful infections. This also looks to include sinus infection, perhaps allergies, etc.

Anyway, my question is this. Does anyone know of a reputable hospital and surgeon in or around Marrakech? Also, how much would this cost, as he has no insurance, of course. His family is terrified for him to have surgery. I have not heard great things about health care in Morocco (sorry, no offense meant), so I have no idea where to turn.

Any advice will be greatly appreciated. I will be leaving for there June 6 and hope to be able to help Hamid with this problem. Thanks sooo much!!!
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-05-12 20:01:00
Middle East and North AfricaWhere does some go from here?

I do not know how to feel anymore - I thought I would be okay through all of this - even when we kept getting screwed by all of the processes and how they handled our case. First our denial on our K3 and then finding out the reasons were just so out of context and then finding out that our CR1 petition was approved January 31 and should have been in process at the NVC, but my Senator finds out that the CSC erroneously sent it to storage instead of to the NVC! Now we are having to wait even longer for the processing of it. But I still thought I would be okay because my husband and I were together.

I sold everything I own to move to his country to live side by side with my husband until we could return together to the states to start and build out future together. The police and authorities here all told me the same thing - you have nothing to worry about - you can stay here for years, no problem. We did what we were supposed to do and filed my papers here - I went through the interview and the papers were sent off to Rabat for approval stamping - little did we know the man at the Foreigner's Office here requested that I only be given four months. He said we should not have needed any more time than that. We filed all the papers we needed to get my residence permit, which is good for 10 years. But this man screwed us - after two and a half months of waiting - we got our papers back and they only gave me until June 20 to stay here in this country - not a residence permit, only a temporary VISA stamp in my passport. We asked if they will extend it - can we file more papers - the man told us No!

So now not only are we having to endure the American government, but now also the Moroccan government. I do not understand how these people actually sleep at night with their selves - really! My husband and I have shared the last three days now just watching each other and tears falling - we do not even know where to go from here - we both hurt so much more then we can even explain. Both of our families are beside themselves - the hurt is tenfold for all of us!

I am not standing by anymore while the governments of this world continue to do this to innocent people who just try so hard to follow the laws that govern us in life. I am preparing letters/articles to be submitted to any and all media agencies, as well as government agencies. I am not sitting on my hands anymore - it is time we all stand up for our rights and the right to have a process that is fair and just for those that follow the law to do it right. I am so tired of just sitting back and hearing story after story of complete heartbreak in so many people - I really do not understand how so many people in this system over the years have just not done anything to change this. I can not sit back and watch one more person have to bare these atrocities.

Right now I do not even have money to fight this - I have spent every dime I had to fight our own process and denials and on and on, but I will find a way to make this happen, if I have to start walking across America to make a point! I for one can not handle one more hang in there - stay strong comment - I will stay strong by fighting this system and getting the national public to pay attention to what is happening to innocent people who are just trying to love and marry and be happy and do it legally!!



Hi Aicha--Your experience is really frightening to all of us getting ready to go through the Moroccan consulate. It seems that Americans have no rights when it comes to immigration of fiances from there. Be assured you are in my prayers--I wish I could stay with Hamid in Morocco forever!!! Keep the faith....Debbie
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-05-12 19:53:00
Middle East and North AfricaIs there anyone who NEVER his/her their visa?

Hi one and all--I appreciate all of the input here!!!

Question: IS THERE EVER A CASE WHERE A VISA IS DENIED FOREVER? I mean, if we keep reapplying for several years, won't we eventually be approved?

Also, how often can a couple reapply for a visa? Is there a limit?

If we get married after being denied a fiance visa, won't they eventually realize that we are serious? If seems to me that if a guy was just looking to get a green card, he would give up and find somebody else to latch onto after a long wait????? But then again, this process seems to deny logic--lol.

Another question...I know I can stay in Morocco up to 90 days without a visa, BUT if I want to stay longer, what do I have to do? Also, does keeping your residence in the USA, but living in Morocco most of the year qualify a person for health care here in the USA? I guess I am exploring other options "just in case." He would just as soon us live in Morocco after I retire, BUT I don't think the health care there is adequate, plus I would basically have no health insurance.

I appreciate any and all advice.



PS---SORRY ABOUT THE WORD LEFT OUT IN THE TITLE--AM I ####### OR WHAT????LOL
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-02 11:30:00
Middle East and North AfricaIs there anyone who NEVER his/her their visa?

i would contact your health insurance provider about that last question. my guess is if you held residence here you would be fine.

also i know there are cases that are denied, and denied forever. i would try not to worry too much about it though. you got a lot of great advice about your petition so as long as you followed it and showed lots of proof, i think you'll be okay.

have fun on your trip. can i hide in your luggage? ;)



Thanks so much, Abdounjen!!! I know that to get Medicare, etc., you would have to be in the USA cuz, of course, doctors in Morocco wouldn't offer that. I guess it's possible to fly back and forth to use that insurance.

I have just heard so much about getting turned down, and with our age difference, we don't hold out much hope on the fiance visa for the first round. I am wondering if getting married and getting the spousal visa will help versus reapplying with a fiance visa. I see where the fees are going up to ridiculous amounts, which will probably really slow down the rates of application, appeals, etc. Another sad thing for immigrants!!! It's a question of what gives out first, the person or the money....

Thanks for the encouragement!!! Now, if that consulate in Casa would just open up and get going again.
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-02 11:27:00
Middle East and North AfricaIs there anyone who NEVER his/her their visa?
Hi one and all--I appreciate all of the input here!!!

Question: IS THERE EVER A CASE WHERE A VISA IS DENIED FOREVER? I mean, if we keep reapplying for several years, won't we eventually be approved?

Also, how often can a couple reapply for a visa? Is there a limit?

If we get married after being denied a fiance visa, won't they eventually realize that we are serious? If seems to me that if a guy was just looking to get a green card, he would give up and find somebody else to latch onto after a long wait????? But then again, this process seems to deny logic--lol.

Another question...I know I can stay in Morocco up to 90 days without a visa, BUT if I want to stay longer, what do I have to do? Also, does keeping your residence in the USA, but living in Morocco most of the year qualify a person for health care here in the USA? I guess I am exploring other options "just in case." He would just as soon us live in Morocco after I retire, BUT I don't think the health care there is adequate, plus I would basically have no health insurance.

I appreciate any and all advice.
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-02 10:58:00
Middle East and North Africamorocco summer travel

:wacko: :wacko: i had not planned on going to morocco yet again before my fiance arrived in the us. but now that the consulate is still closed and no opening in sight (and who knows when his interview will end up being/how long AP will be!!) i want to go see my fiance so badly. now that summer is here prices for plane tickets are DOUBLE what i paid just a few months ago. i've been checking everywhere.
travelocity, sidestep, kayak, expedia, orbitz, royal air maroc website, etc. does anyone have any in on finding good deals that i don't know of? i've also called my local moroccan travel agent and am waiting to hear back about what he can find. :help: the best i can find has been around $1300. thats insane!




Hi--I am leaving this Wednesday to go to Marrakech to see Hamid. I went in March and paid around 1100.00 to go from TN to Casa. That included insurance policy. I went through Detroit/Amsterdam and back through Amsterdam/Minneapolis.

This time I am flying on to Marrakech, which costs about 300.00 more than Casa. BUT this time it is almost 1700.00 (with insurance policy) cuz of tourist season. I will be going through DC/London and back the same way. It's true that it often takes 24 hours, but what can a person do?

Anyway, I have found the best deals on cheapflights.com. In a while, I will be familiar with all the airports in the universe--lol. HOpe this helps. PS--I am hoping to go again in Sept. on my next teaching break. Let those jerks in Casa tell us we aren't serious---!!!! :angry: :angry: :angry:
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-01 20:50:00
Middle East and North AfricaJust back from Morocco

Sounds like a wonderful time! Just out of curiosity, how long of a plane ride is it to Morocco?



Unfortunately from knoxville tn it is anywhere from 18 to 24 hours in all. A really long trip. PS Just got back here Thursday...hooray
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-09 05:28:00
Middle East and North AfricaHi to everybody from Marrakech

I wouldn't let the age difference get you down. There have been a lot of people who have gotten the K1 with quite a hefty age difference. What is going to look good on your part is that you have been back to visit since you filed the petition. That shows proof of an ongoing relationship. It would be great if you could work out another visit around the time of his interview. I too have been going every 3 to 3 1/2 months. We hope that it will go in our favor(fingers crossed).




Hi Debbie,
You are lucky to be in Morocco! I would give anything to be there too. :( . I will be going to Marrakech next month. The weather will probably be unbearable by that time.
I don't know why you would want to get married and withdraw your K1 visa. From what I can see they are the visas that produce the speediest results. I think you should give it some time and see where the K1 takes you. You will probably find out that you will be getting your K1 interview before you even go back to Morocco in September. Don't automatically assume the worst!
Best of luck to you and your fiance, and enjoy your time together.


Yes I am lucky to be a teacher at a year round school..but the question is whether my money will hold out. I am planning to come back every break if I can...the next one being Sept then Dec.. Do the people in casa really think we would do all this for nothing????



I am SOOOOO lucky to be here in Marrakech with my fiance. The weather is great ---not as hot right now as I feared. I am so lucky to be able to stay here a whole month.

Anyway---here is a question. We applied for our I-129 April 7, 2007. The petition is still in CA of course. If we got married when I hope to come back in Sept. will that mess up our I-129 if he has not had his interview yet?

OR If he has had his interview and we have been denied the visa can we immediately reapply for spousal visa?

OR if the papers are sent back for further review what would happen if we got married then?

Just wondering what our options are.

Thanks for any and all help....Debbie and Hamid



Thanks for the encouragement...we are worried about age difference and length of relationship being red flags. We are not getting our hopes up because of casas reputation...I read half are denied...BUT we are hoping for a blessing/miracle. We will see...


MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-10 15:17:00
Middle East and North AfricaHi to everybody from Marrakech

Hi Debbie,
You are lucky to be in Morocco! I would give anything to be there too. :( . I will be going to Marrakech next month. The weather will probably be unbearable by that time.
I don't know why you would want to get married and withdraw your K1 visa. From what I can see they are the visas that produce the speediest results. I think you should give it some time and see where the K1 takes you. You will probably find out that you will be getting your K1 interview before you even go back to Morocco in September. Don't automatically assume the worst!
Best of luck to you and your fiance, and enjoy your time together.


I am SOOOOO lucky to be here in Marrakech with my fiance. The weather is great ---not as hot right now as I feared. I am so lucky to be able to stay here a whole month.

Anyway---here is a question. We applied for our I-129 April 7, 2007. The petition is still in CA of course. If we got married when I hope to come back in Sept. will that mess up our I-129 if he has not had his interview yet?

OR If he has had his interview and we have been denied the visa can we immediately reapply for spousal visa?

OR if the papers are sent back for further review what would happen if we got married then?

Just wondering what our options are.

Thanks for any and all help....Debbie and Hamid



Thanks for the encouragement...we are worried about age difference and length of relationship being red flags. We are not getting our hopes up because of casas reputation...I read half are denied...BUT we are hoping for a blessing/miracle. We will see...
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-10 14:56:00
Middle East and North AfricaHi to everybody from Marrakech
I am SOOOOO lucky to be here in Marrakech with my fiance. The weather is great ---not as hot right now as I feared. I am so lucky to be able to stay here a whole month.

Anyway---here is a question. We applied for our I-129 April 7, 2007. The petition is still in CA of course. If we got married when I hope to come back in Sept. will that mess up our I-129 if he has not had his interview yet?

OR If he has had his interview and we have been denied the visa can we immediately reapply for spousal visa?

OR if the papers are sent back for further review what would happen if we got married then?

Just wondering what our options are.

Thanks for any and all help....Debbie and Hamid
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-10 14:14:00
Middle East and North Africahappy frikkin hump day

:angry:




Hi to everybody from Marrakech....the weather is great...Im with my man...what more could I want????? How about visa approval??? lol
Anyway hope you all have a great day...never give up.... :D PS----love that Leary quote :P
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-13 10:23:00
Middle East and North AfricaNumber of Visas Denied in Casa????
Does anybody keep up with this???? Thanks, Debbie and Hamid
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-26 07:45:00
Middle East and North AfricaNeed Advice Again....

I think it's worth it to keep with what you're doing, and if you do get denied it will only set you back a month or so in the end.

DOn't worry so much!!


A month???? I can't say I know where you figure that. The process is a little more complicated than that, even with the K-1, and even if it expires.


A MONTH OR SO. Clearly depending on how fast their case goes. They have NOA1 in April so it's almost been 3 months for their NOA2. The interview will probbaly be in early to mid August.

Our K-1 took from early March with our NOA1 and the interview was on June 27th. That's 4 months. They're almost 3 months into their K-1 process.

Maybe you didn't understand that I am talking about the K-1 process, not including a denial. We all know how long that can take. If they do get denied, and marry right after and refile for K-3 then they wouldn't have lost too much time seeing as they are already about 3 months into the process.


Maybe I am reading it wrong, but when you state "and if you do get denied it will only set you back a month or so in the end." then I am assuming you are talking in the case of the denial.

My intentions here are to not only advise, but the give facts. She hasn't been denied, and at this point it would be foolish to dwell on that to the point of making herself sick. On the other hand it is important that she understands that a denial is a very time consumming thing, and to prepare herself for that phase if need be.

As for the interview, I don't remember, where is your petition now? The consulate schedules the interviews for the "K" visas, and it usually is pretty quick once they get it. I would estimate about a month after they have it.



Hi and thanks for the info...our petition was sent to CA the first week of April---that is all I have heard.Debbie and Hamid
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-28 16:39:00
Middle East and North AfricaNeed Advice Again....

I think it's worth it to keep with what you're doing, and if you do get denied it will only set you back a month or so in the end.

DOn't worry so much!!


A month???? I can't say I know where you figure that. The process is a little more complicated than that, even with the K-1, and even if it expires.


A MONTH OR SO. Clearly depending on how fast their case goes. They have NOA1 in April so it's almost been 3 months for their NOA2. The interview will probbaly be in early to mid August.

Our K-1 took from early March with our NOA1 and the interview was on June 27th. That's 4 months. They're almost 3 months into their K-1 process.

Maybe you didn't understand that I am talking about the K-1 process, not including a denial. We all know how long that can take. If they do get denied, and marry right after and refile for K-3 then they wouldn't have lost too much time seeing as they are already about 3 months into the process.





So you think Hamid will get his interview sometime in August?? I have plane tickets to go back mid-September for another 3 weeks ( my third trip). I am still in Marrakech right now til next week having a wonderful time :D and wondering why in hell a person sitting in an office in Casa can decide what I do with my life. :angry:

When I get back to TN I am going to get paperwork together like someone suggested to send in right after he gets his interview date. I am going to include stuff like the original packet but update with pics, latest trip, mention Sept. trip, letters from friends and family, etc.

I so appreciate this site. The government site makes everything look so easy..what BS... BTW, our red flags are age difference, length of relationship (7.5 months) and my divorces--these are the reasons that I am not very optimistic for approval. I said before, I expect a denial, but would consider approval a divine miracle...Meanwhile, I will hope for that miracle and keep praying...wait forever if we have to... :innocent: THANKS AGAIN EVERYBODY FOR YOUR HELP!
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-28 13:18:00
Middle East and North AfricaNeed Advice Again....
If our fiance visa is denied outright, could we get married and apply for spouse visa???

OR

If our fiance visa is sent back to the USA for further review, what would happen if we went ahead and got married?



We wish now we had already gotten married and filed for the spouse visa instead of the fiance visa.

Any advice is greatly appreciated. BTW, our papers are still in CA, no word since they were sent there the first week of April. Could you please give the address again of where the list is for April filers???

Thanks so much...Debbie and Hamid

PS----I am still in Marrakech til next Thursday when I fly back to TN and having such a great time with Hamid. BUT it was 120 F two days ago...whew

Thank God for fans... :yes:
MarriednowFemaleMorocco2007-06-26 07:51:00