ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSENDING PACKET3
Nope, nada.

After you receive the NOA2, USCIS will forward your I-129F petition to NVC to be assigned a case number. From there it will be forwarded to the U.S. Embassy Manila. She can either wait for the Embassy to contact her via snail mail, or you can help her do the proactive thing by tracking the movement of the package from NVC to U.S. Embassy Manila and start calling their agents within a week after the petition has been delivered.

How? Do a search here for a VJ member named thepizzadude and in his posts he describes how you can get the NVC case number in advance and how to get an Embassy interview date without waiting for snail mail.

K1 petitioners or applicants set the interview schedules themselves through calling the US Embassy toll-free line. Once you or your fiancee schedules the interview date, she has to get all the supporting documents compiled, the visa fee paid and the medical done well before her interview. Again, all the documents on the list are handcarried to the Embassy on her interview date.

no not yet... we have not recieved the NOA2 yet... so there will be no requirements to be send then? they will just schedule the interview and she should carry all the requirements there?


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-28 14:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSENDING PACKET3
Again...the Philippines doesn't use Packet 3 and Packet 4 anymore...they are collectively referred to as the K1 interview preparation instructions.

You can download them directly from the US Embassy Manila website:
English version: http://photos.state.... Packet_001.pdf
Tagalog version: http://photos.state....ag_rtf3_001.pdf

The items listed there are to be handcarried to the Embassy interview...not mailed in. Has your fiancee gone for her medical examination at St. Luke's?

In sending the requirements do we need to send everything at once? We are concerned about the medical thingy.


Edited by marriedtomrg, 28 September 2010 - 01:51 PM.

marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-28 13:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHepatitis Not Required?
It's a list of vaccinations any applicant can expect to receive --- but again, the doctors will administer vaccines or boosters based on age and gender.

Here's a brochure on Hepatitis A issued by the CDC: http://www.cdc.gov/v...s/vis-hep-a.pdf

Hi marriedtomrg,

Thanks for your reply. So you did not get Hep A/B, and you received your Visa without any issue? I've researched hepatitis a bit, and there doesn't seem to be any age requirement. I don't understand why the doctor wouldn't give her hep A/B. And it indeed on the list of required vaccinations: http://bangkok.usemb...ckage_may09.pdf

I just don't get it... Why would this be on the list if she didn't need the vaccination?

Thanks.


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-27 13:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHepatitis Not Required?
Most vaccinations are effective when administered up to 2 years old.

During the medical, the doctors there determine what vaccines or boosters are appropriate based on age and gender. I'm 38 and didn't receive the Hep A/B vaccine either.

Hi all,

So, my fiancee's interview date is coming closer and closer (October 19). I'm concerned about 1 thing. When she went into the hospital to get her vaccinations they said that Hepatitis A/B were not required. She did get shots for HPV, Tetanus and diptheria, and possibly one more, I can't remember. But I was actually in Thailand and went to the hospital with her on her second round of vaccinations. And I personally spoke to the doctor, and he said that she did not need them at her age (she is 26). I didn't know that age was a factor at all for hepatitis. I'm just concerned that we meet all of the requirements at the time of the interview. I think my concerns can't possibly be valid because I trust the doctor knew what he was doing. It was an extremely professional hospital. I can't remember the name of the hospital, but was told it was Bangkok's best.

But, I can't help but worry...

Anybody have any experience or information on this?

Thanks.


Edited by marriedtomrg, 27 September 2010 - 12:21 PM.

marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-27 12:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresmajor problem on k1 application please help
On the contrary, US visitors can stay in the Philippines up to 21 days without a visa. Before the 21 days are up, she has to get an extension through a travel agency or directly through Bureau of Immigration. Since she is planning to stay 3 months, she has to apply for extension twice.

Your future K1 visa application is best served if she is currently employed...because one of the requirements is for her to show she can meet 125% of the poverty limit for a family of two (you and her): $18,212.

Better if you guys plan a shorter trip for her.

philippines is an open country.meaning you can stay here in the philippines for as long as 3 months to 6 months wihtout a visa...





are u sure about this mam/sir?


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-28 12:26:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresincome requirement
Ok, I was thinking about AOS. :)

What about from his previous job? What were his earnings from January 2010 up to August 2010?

100% of poverty guideline for a family of 2 is $14,570...still based on current income, not previous year's tax return.

his current income in the new employment certificate he has,he is earning 3000 monthly starting this september..is the one i read for KI visa in travel.state.gov stating the required income for applicants using I-134 is only 100%poverty guideline and 125% is only used when I-864 is required,is this not applicable now?...we dont have income tax return for 2010 yet,only 2009 and that year he was affected by recession.. he just recover just this year what we have now is employment certificate stating his postion and his mothly income as of this year starting september..thank you so much...


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-29 08:00:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresincome requirement
The requirement for a family of 2 (you and your fiance) is $18,212. This will be based on his current income...not his last year's tax return.

What is his current income?

Hello VJRs i would like to ask what if last year my fiance income is 15000 which is above 100%federal poverty guideline and under 125%poverty guideline,having I 134 as affidavit of support for K! fiance visa ,thus the said income met the I-134? thank you in advance.please help


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-29 07:27:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F Interview Question
Sometimes petitioners accompany the beneficiary during the interview (in certain consulates, they are recommended, but not required). They do not have separate interviews from beneficiaries (since it's the beneficiary who will be issued a visa, they are the ones under scrutiny)

Does the petitioner also have an interview? I am looking at your timelines and nowhere do I see that the petitioner has had an interview. Thank you in advance!


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-29 16:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresnvc process
LOL I know what you mean...my husband picks on me for being OCD myself.

thank you,so far it has been painfully slow.and you know what happens when someone so OCD has so much ttime on their hands :wacko:


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-30 10:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresnvc process
Hope the rest of the process is smooth for you guys.

i know,i just want to know where to go from there,thats all.


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-30 10:13:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresnvc process
If you don't have an NOA2 yet, then there isn't any reason to contact NVC at the moment. :)

so there is no absolute need to contact them if anything goes normal.correct?
the reason i ask is,my fiance and i have filed for k-1,he is active military,currently stationed outside of the states,going back for training in about two weeks.
we still havent gotten approved or denied.during his time in training he wont be able to access internet or phone service,therefor,the fact that majority of people contact nvc worried me a little.
never the less they will contact us with the new case number,correct?
thank you by the way


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-30 09:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresnvc process
After USCIS approves your I-129F petition, it's forwarded to the National Visa Center to be assigned a case number (it shouldn't take long...usually 5 days tops), then it's sent to your local US Embassy for visa review, processing and issuance.

For permanent resident/green card applicants (like IR1/CR1), NVC serves a different function...they conduct all the reviews before sending the petition to the US Embassy...so that process takes longer, depending on the circumstances of the applicant(s).

Applicants contact the NVC for a variety of reasons, but mostly to find out if their petitions have been forwarded to the US Embassy already and if they have their case number.

I'm not very familiar with the way NVC works.So I have a question.
Why do people contact NVC via phone every day?what happens if one is not able to?Is it really that crucial to the process?


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-30 09:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresEAD during or after K1?
When you have a job offer, you can request for your EAD to be expedited. I've read about one VJ poster's experience here (mathranik): http://www.visajourn...ite-successful/ I understand this is on a case-to-case basis, but at least you know it is possible.
marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-30 11:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresEAD during or after K1?
Fees are subject to increase by November 2010.

If you apply before you get married (based on the date you provided, May 2011), it's $380.

If you apply after you get married (and file it along with AOS and AP), the $380 is waived.

AOS will increase from $930 to $985 by November 2010
Biometrics Fee will increase from $80 to $85

So currently AOS is $1,010 ($930 plus Biometrics) but by Nov 2010 it will be $1,070...if you file EAD and AP at the same time as AOS, EAD and AP fees are waived.

Good morning everyone,

My fiance and I are getting married and are in the process of waiting for the approval of our K1 (Filed in July 2010. When is the best time to apply for an EAD? Should I apply during my time before my wedding (May 2011) or should I do it apart of my AOS? Some direction would be helpful.

Thanks
Richard


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-30 10:48:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129f NOA1, now what?
The next step is described in the VJ Guides: http://www.visajourn...content/k1guide

Basically the approved I-129F petition goes to the National Visa Center (NVC), where it gets assigned a case number that starts with MNL.

From there, it's sent to the US Embassy Manila (which I am assuming the consulate you guys indicated on the I-129F where her visa interview and processing will take place). You or your fiancee will then have to set the interview date.

Once it's set, your fiancee has to get forms, supporting documents, visa fee, courier fee and medical ready well before the interview date. On the day of her interview, she will know right then if she passes...she will receive the famous "pink slip" which is basically the courier form.

Here is the interview preparation list that the US Embassy Manila agent will give your fiancee when the interview is set:

English: http://photos.state.... Packet_001.pdf
Tagalog: http://photos.state....ag_rtf3_001.pdf

Some of the documents listed you can prepare well in advance. But for some, I'd recommend your fiancee only secures when it is close to the interview date, so they are current. This includes the passport size pictures, CENOMAR (Certificate of No Marriage/Singleness), the police clearance (if applicable), and the NBI Clearance.

Your fiancee may also want to connect with members from the Philippines discussion board for location-specific concerns.

Good luck with your journey!

Ok, so I got my I-129f application mailed and got my NOA1, so now I'm just going to be waiting several months now as I understand it (about 5 months for VSC???), so I figured while I'm waiting, I might as well figure out what I need to start working on next. So what will I need to have ready to go after I get my NOA2? I want to eliminate as much as possible any delays on my end of things, so just wondering what I ought to be gathering as far as information wise or otherwise to be ready as soon as I reach the next step...and what is the next step after NOA2? LOL

Whew...so much to learn....

Thanks for all your help! :)


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-01 10:34:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-797 Notice of Approval
Received a message from her. She is currently based in Dubai, but due to personal circumstances, opted to have the case transferred to US Embassy Manila for interview and processing...which takes 2 to 3 months (according to the Embassy).

What should she do then?

If you don't already have it, call the National Visa Center (NVC) and get your MNL case number.

Then call the Embassy and set your interview appointment. :thumbs:


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-01 10:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-797 Notice of Approval
The Embassy doesn't set the interview schedule...you do. Haven't you received a letter from the National Visa Center with your case number?

Hi, everyone my I-797 Notice Of Approval expired, i am waiting for my interview schedule in manila. Please advice me.tnx


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-30 14:58:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresOnce you have filed for your fiance visa...
You're welcome. :) You have to remember, the 5-month wait is average waiting time...for some members, the wait has been longer than that, and a fraction of them receive an RFE late in their process (kinda frustrating when you've been waiting that long then the first piece of news you get is an RFE...not pretty).

Even more interesting, the feds announced fee increases on some of the applications, effective November. I-129F fees, however, will go down from $455 to $340. I-485, I-765, I-131 and biometrics fees will go up. Makes you wonder how that will affect application volumes as a whole.

In the meantime, let's hope none of us get any RFEs :)

Lol...!! You are right about that. I don't want one. I guess in my post it sounded like I was wondering where mine was. Ha. I guess I meant to ask if they made the determination if you DO need one earlier than later. But you did say that it can happy any time during that 5 month period. So that's a good enough answer for me.

Thanks for the response. :)


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-30 20:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresOnce you have filed for your fiance visa...
Trust me, you don't want a RFE. :)

USCIS can send you an RFE anytime during the average 5-month processing period. Hope you never get one!

How long does it take to get an RFE? I am sure that everyone is different. However, you would think that if they were going to make the determination that an RFE was needed. It would be realized early on. I filed on the 15th, and clearly the status (I check it obsessively.) is in "initial review." I am sure it will remain that way for a while. I am just wondering when I should expect an RFE or if that just depends on the individual??

Thanks guys...

Amanda


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-30 16:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F question # 11
If he has any of the paperwork from before, he can use that. If not, then he has to make that phone call.

He can't leave the information out...USCIS will have a record of the previous spouse.

This is I-129F question #11.
Have you ever filed for this or any other alien fiancé(e)
or husband/wife before?
Yes No
If "Yes," give name of all aliens, place and date of filing,
A# and result. (Attached additional sheets as necessary.)

Thanks Gary and Alla. Gosh, this is a tough one. My fiance needs to find out the place and date of filling and the A#. Do you have any idea on how to do get this info other than him calling his ex to ask her about this? Thanks again.


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-01 12:58:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureswhat if a person is a citizen on one country but lives in another country?
You may want to consult the guides: http://www.visajourn.../content/guides

Does she intend to return to Korea to work? Or is she giving up the job?

K3 is no longer a viable option. You guys will either have to apply for a K1 fiancee visa (temporary resident visa, good for 90 days --- you have to be married within this period) or CR1 permanent resident visa for spouses of U.S. citizens (CR1 is a conditional green card, good for 2 years).

Option 1 - If your SO gives up her job in Korea:

You guys can get married while she is on B2 visa, and then apply for CR1 and adjustment of status at the same time so she can become a green card holder; the thing is, she cannot leave the U.S. while the application is in play. (The description for this process is under the Guides, US Citizen and Spouse both live/reside in the US)

In this case her interview would likely be at one of the local offices (not sure where).

Option 2 - If your SO returns to Korea to continue working:

You guys get married, she returns to Korea, then you file an I-130 petition, and proceed with a CR1 that way (The description for this process is under the Guides, US Citizen lives in the US & Spouse lives overseas, just ignore the K3 process.)

OR

She returns to Korea after visiting you (still single), then you file an I-129F petition, and proceed with a K1 that way (The description for this process is under the Guides if you are engaged.)

If you file either K1 or CR1 under option 2, she still has a B2 visa and she can visit you, but there is a chance she can be turned away at the Port of Entry (because they will see that there is a petition in play)...she just has to show strong ties back to Korea.

Since she has resided in Korea for more than a year, she can have her interview there for Option 2 K1 or CR1.

If there are any other considerations or plans you need to figure into your situation, you may want to bring those forward so a more specific solution can be applied in your case.

New poster here, but frequent traveler to Russia/Europe and some what familiar with the K-1/K-3 process, however here is my question.

I am a resident of Texas, she is a Russian citizen that is a university professor in Korea (for the last 8+ years). She has been to the U.S two separate times, when she last applied for the visa, the interviewer told her that if she paid an extra $100.00 she could get a two year multi entry tourist visa (which she did). I did a search but was unable to find anything dealing with the following items.

If she returns here on the B-2 visa (still over 1 1/2 years left) could she come here on that and we apply for a change of status from a B-2 to a K-3? or would she have to leave while DHS did their thing? Also if she did have to leave would she be able to do her interview in Seoul or would she have to fly back to her home country (Russia)? Any assistance is appreciated.

Thanks in advance


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-01 09:00:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNot making enough money :(
Just to borrow what some of our veteran members have been saying, K3 is no longer a viable option.

Even if it was still available, your obstacle is still meeting 125% of the poverty guidelines. The only difference is that you will both be married (plus or minus certain documentation that applies in the K1 visa process, but not the K3 visa process).

Your only other option is CR1, which is a permanent resident visa for the spouse of a U.S. citizen (K1 visa is only a temporary resident visa, and you would have to adjust status after you guys get married in the U.S.) Again, your only deterrent is the income requirement.

There are 2 ways of applying for CR1. You may want to consult the VJ Guides for this, so you know what to expect.
http://www.visajourn.../content/guides

You may also want to post your question on the Canada regional discussion board to get some inputs from Canadian VJ members.

Hey everyone!

I'm just going to keep this short and to the point unless otherwise asked. I am from Canada and I'm engaged to a man from Virginia. We have all the proof in the world that the relationship is true; we've been dating for 4 years and see each other at least 3 months a year if not more! Anyways, the only thing stopping us from filing a K1 Visa is that he doesn't make 125% above poverty line. His parents approve of the marriage, but are not willing to sign due to liability reasons. He is a full time student working 2 part time jobs at $8.00/hour. He really is trying hard, but is there another way around this? I don't know what to ask... just is there something we can do so that we can be with each other? Otherwise, we won't be able to get married for another 6 years (when he's done with school, finds a job, applies for application, waiting period, approval, etc.).

If I filed for a K3 Visa, would it be any different?

Please help, I really appreciate it.

~ Amy-Rose


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-01 08:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSputum Test in St. lukes Walkthrough
There's a a bunch of threads on this topic in the Philippine discussion board.

Hope your test goes well.

Im very happy to know some information shared by my VJ friend (Kikay) who went on this sputum test. After 1 day worrying & crying because of the result of my medical in St.lukes, now I have sore throat & cough so I'm very anxious that it might affect the result of my sputum exam next next week. Here's the info's from Kikay and I want to share to everyone and it might help us to know the process. Anyone can share your experiences in this forum too. :thumbs:


1. SLEC will schedule you 3 consecutive days for sputum collection every morning at 6:00-8:30 AM. (No food intake night before your sputum collection and in the morning too,drink alot of water, bring toothbrush & toothpaste, no lipstick for women)

2. RESULT 3DAYS SPUTUM TEST- on the day after the collection of the third sputum. This would depend on the volume of work they have. Sometimes, it would take 2-3 days after the third day before you go back for the result.

3.On the third day, you will be given a piece of paper that states the date and time that you'll go back for the PULMONARY EVALUATION. Here, you will get your 3-day sputum smear result. If you are positive, you will be asked to start with treatment. If negative, the doctor will give you further instructions, if any. Then the nurse will give you another piece of paper for the date, time, and phone number for you to call them for the sputum culture result (you need to call them FIRST before you go there).

4.Based on Kikay's experience; Her 8th week culture will end on Oct. 6, and they asked her to call for the result on Oct. 8. Based on the posts here on VJ, SLMEC usually sets the vaccination date and interview date within the following week (latest would be two weeks after the result).

5. As for some whose experiencing throat infection/cough (like me), some bacteria might appear in your sputum smear BUT of course they will NOT be TB. Med techs can accurately identify different kids of bacteria, so don't worry about it. I've read of some cases, though, that short-term antibiotic therapy (around 7-14 days) was prescribed because of the infection. In general, don't worry about your sore throat/cough because they will not misread it as TB.

**I WILL CONTINUE TO UPDATE & TIL' I SHARE MY OWN EXPERIENCE**


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-01 09:32:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAustralian Seeking Help
You may want to read the Guides on the K1 visa process: http://www.visajourn...content/k1guide

There is also a Regional Discussion Group (scroll down the screen to see the link to the Australia board); you can touch base with some VJ members from Australia for some location-specific requirements.

Like I said previously he is not employed and is studying so is it ok for his mom to sponsor instead? Also I've run across things such as does he need to be 21 in order to petition to apply for me? Thank you for your help :) This has been very stressful. I'm still in the USA on a visitor visa until October 27th.


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-28 15:59:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHow long take NVC
Are you the petitioner or the beneficiary? If both of you have not heard from NVC in at a week, the petitioner may call them.

Both of you usually will receive a letter through standard mail or e-mail from the NVC to be informed of your case number.

Do i must need to call NVC for case number. yes I have NOA2
thanks


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-02 06:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHow long take NVC
USCIS has already completed processing of your I-129F, so now they will forward your approved petition to NVC to be assigned a case number.

Have the petitioner contact NVC to find out if your case has already been assigned a case number and when the petition will be forwarded to the US Embassy in Pakistan. The phone number is (603) 334-0700.

When the petitioner calls, he must have the USCIS NOA2 number ready (which starts with EAC or WAC). it's an automated voice response (AVR) system, so he has to listen to the instructions carefully.

hello .
I just like to let you know My I29f Approved 21st sept and I recived NOA2 but i did not hear any thing from NVC . i did check online my status nothing chanege yet after approved I29f.
I just like to ask how long take NVC . and how do i know they sent to Embassy .
thanks so much


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-01 12:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG325 copies & signatures
It's 4 for the beneficiary and 4 for the petitioner, and you send them with your I-129F petition.

In the old version of the G-325A, there used to be 4 sheets in one file (when you filled out one, it automatically enters data in the rest of the 3 forms).

At the bottom of each form they were distributed to:

1) Ident. (I assume this meant Identification)
2) Rec. Br. (Records Branch?)
3) C. (Not sure what this is)
4) Consulate

Can somebody please explain when are the four G-325A(s) needed, during initial I129 package or later? Is this 2 for each person, or 4 for each?

Thank you!!

--JW


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-02 21:10:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG325 copies & signatures
USCIS will send you an RFE for the other G-325As, if ever.

There's only one space provided for the signature, with the date next to it. That's all you had to sign.

We submitted our G-325s when we submitted out K1 application.
However, we only submitted one copy for each person.
I have now ready there should be 4 - anyone have help for this one.

in addition the G325s were signed but not where the Alien number
is asked for - we left this blank. is this a major issue ?
I am a US citizen and the country of submittal is for Russia.
note : we did sign at the applicant signature block above the 'alien 'block


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-01 15:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresDo we need to consult an immigration attrony?

Hey fellow members,

First of all I would like to thank you all for taking the time to read this.
As you know I am the beneficiary of a K1 visa. I am originally from Ethiopia,have been residing in the UK for a few years and I am now a naturalised british citizen.
In my country origin we use our father's 1st name as a surname. When birth certificate are issued, they would put your 1st name then your father's first name
(Surname to us) followed by your grandfather's 1st name as your full name. For ppl that are not from Ethiopia it would seem as if I have a given middle name which I dont. My birth certificate is the only document that has listed my grandfather's name after my surname. All other documents e.g. Passport, school etc. all have listed my name and surname only.
Here are my questions.
1) On form G-325a it asks all other names used, I wrote down NONE. Do you think I should of put down full name as listed on my birth certificate.

YES, so they know you are one and the same person.

2) on D-230, Q3. It asks for full name in native alphabet,
Do you think I should put my full name as in birth certificate or passport?

This only applies if you have a native alphabet like the Chinese, Thai and Arabians do. Otherwise, you can just write N/A.

3) do you think the fact that name on mypassport dont match to my birth certificate
might cause a problem at the consulate stage ? Or if I explain to them the name at the end is my grandfather's name, then it would be ok. Or do I need to write same person, one person aaffidavit? Or Do we need to consultan an immigration attrony? Please share your knowledges and experiences on this matter.

Sounds like that could be a problem...you may want to consult one of the members on the appropriate Regional discussion board to ask how they handled that concern.

Thanks very much in advance. God bless!


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-04 08:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWill a K1 beneficiary's tattoos affect her medical?
There shouldn't be a problem. I know a few who have body piercings as well, and they went through the medical fine. St. Luke's will do some blood work to check if you contracted hepatitis and other communicable diseases, like HIV and syphilis.

If you went to a reputable tattoo parlor in the Philippines, then you're ok.

I'm the beneficiary. I have 6 tattoos; 4 on my back, 1 on my tummy, and a ring tattoo. None of them are "gang" ink. I read somewhere that ink makes the examining physician and consulate officials suspect that the applicant is a gang member. But almost all of my tattoos are the opposite of "gang". They're girly - goddess, butterfly, sexy cat, women empowerment quote, Venus symbol. The ring is our engagement ring (my fiancé has an identical ring). We'll have the rings modified after the wedding, to show the transition from engagement to marriage. My question is, will my tattoos affect my medical exam results at the SLMC-Extension Clinic? I'm expecting the physician will ask me about them. I'm sure they'll make a note on my file. But will I need additional exams? Are there tattooed Filipinas/Filipinos here who are done with their medicals? Can you enlighten me, please? Thanks!


Edited by marriedtomrg, 01 October 2010 - 09:19 PM.

marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-01 21:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCan the beneficiary be the petitioner?
What's important is that all the other documents that require her original signature are indeed signed. :)

She doesn't need to sign the cover letter, since you are the one sending out the petition.

That seems simple enough.


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-05 12:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCan the beneficiary be the petitioner?
Why don't you just prepare a cover letter signed by yourself, and include a checklist of what you submitted? That would be ok, and you wouldn't lose more time waiting for an original letter to be mailed.
marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-05 12:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresk1 visa
If you don't have an account with USCIS yet, you can register for one.

Go to the USCIS website, on the left, click on Sign-up for Case Updates

Follow the instructions on how to register and how to add your NOA1 receipt number.

From there, you can set it up so that you receive e-mail and/or SMS updates.

You will only receive e-mail/SMS updates for major milestones/events in your application, like card production, approvals, refusals, RFEs, etc.

After you add the NOA1 receipt, you will see there is a column called Last Updated

Every time the date changes under the Last Update column, that means your application has been "touched."
(Please note you will NOT receive e-mail/SMS updates is touched, only during major milestones/events in your application.)


how do i know if our petition has been touched?

what does it mean?
thanks


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-06 13:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureswhere to send paperwork?/
It's Dallas. Here are the instructions for preparing your I-129F (courtesy of USCIS): http://www.uscis.gov...i-129finstr.pdf

For U.S. Postal Service:
USCIS P.O. Box 660151 Dallas, TX 75266

For Express mail and courier deliveries:
USCIS Attn: I-129F 2501 South State Highway 121 Business Suite 400 Lewisville, TX 75067

You may want to consult/read the VisaJourney Guides on applying for a K1 visa: http://www.visajourn...content/k1guide

If you wait till November to file, the fees will be different, effective November 23: http://www.uscis.gov...00045f3d6a1RCRD

For location specific concerns, you or your significant other may want to connect with members in the Philippine regional discussion board.

Good luck with your journey!


--- Kaye and Rick

I live in Arkansas and will soon start the K1 process. I assumed I would send paperwork to Dallas but someone said it should go to Chicago, what is correct??


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-06 16:53:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBig Thank You to VJ
Hello everyone,

I would like to say thank you to this website. It has been a great help to me, especially the example forms. Klaudia and I started our visa journey on Feb. 9th with the mailing of the I-129F package.

Thank You VisaJourney.com
cbx1980MaleMexico2007-02-17 14:57:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresBona fide CR1 marriage when living apart?
There are two agents in the Philippines who can help your wife get an ITIN. It's on the IRS link that Loto gave you.

IF you have children together, or if she has children from a previous marriage, they will need separate ITINs.

If she is working in the Philippines, she can declare her income (using BIR tax return), and use the standard exchange rates defined by the US Department of Treasury (the IRS has links to those too). It will come out small, practically negligible during 1040 filing, but she can declare it as foreign income.

Thanks Loto! I'll give that a shot...she has no foreign income (I support her entirely), so that's actually good in this case. Really, this is great news! I let you know how this works out. I'll be filing in January (though I'm making estimated payments in December).


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-01 10:25:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresBona fide CR1 marriage when living apart?
E-mails, greeting cards, and post cards to each other.

How often do you see your spouse? Visits to the home country and proof that you spent time together; photographs with date stamps would be helpful there.

Money sent to your spouse through Western Union and other services.

Chats via Skype, telephone (the phone cards you used up), text messages, IMs, etc.

Proof that you have included her in your health insurance.

These are just a few.

From VJ's CR1 guide:


(By the way, that should read "bona fide", vs. "bonifide" - VJ's CR1 guide should correct that typo!)

Suppose that you meet and marry your sweetie overseas, then return to the US and go the CR1 route while your spouse waits overseas for the visa. As a practical matter, nothing much has changed after the marriage, because the visa delay is causing a separation. No common residence, etc. So as a practical matter, how exactly does one meet the USCIS's requirement for evidence of a bona fide marriage in this situation? The only applicable method would seem to be dropping some money into a joint bank account, which would seem to me to be mighty thin evidence which is unlikely to be conclusive!


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-30 19:02:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHow do I know the case has been 'touched'?
Go to the USCIS website. Click on Sign-up for Case Updates.

Create an account and follow the directions for registering your NOA1 receipt number(s).

Set up e-mail and/or SMS updates; take note you will only receive updates based on major milestones in your application, like card production ordered, approvals, refusals, case transfers, etc.

There is a column there called Last Updated. Every time the date changes, it means your application has been touched; you will not receive e-mail or SMS alerts for touches.

Hi all,

I see on many people's timelines a segment saying that the case has been 'touched' i.e. people knew when their cases had been touched at USCIS. I was wondering how you know this? and where I would go to find this information out?

Thanks in advance!


marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-01 08:14:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresmisspelled name on brown envelope with visa
Did a quick Google search and found this thread on the same subject:
http://www.visajourn...ame-on-my-visa/

How about the rest of the information? Does your wife's information appear correctly on your wife's visa? (especially her name and A#)

Other members suggest that if there is plenty of time to get it corrected (for your peace of mind), go ahead and get it done, but if not, it shouldn't be an issue as long as the contents of the envelope have your name spelled correctly.

A phone call to the Embassy should eliminate all doubt.

Hi, had a question about a miss spelled name on the brown envelope recieved by my wife yesterday. My wifees name and info is all correct on the bio info on the envelope, but the embassy added and extra letter to my name. Is that a problem at POE or this should be taken care of by going back to the embassy for correction?? I will be calling the embassy soon, just wanted to see if any body had a same experience or know the answer for sure. Thanks for reading this and any info would be greatly appreciated Troy


Edited by marriedtomrg, 02 October 2010 - 09:25 PM.

marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-10-02 21:23:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresForm Ds-230, Item 33 Question
You should still include the information, even though the beneficiary didn't graduate; it's part of their personal record.

If the beneficiary is not currently enrolled, I'd think you should write the month/year the beneficiary stopped going to school...then under Degree/Diploma Incomplete or Didn't Graduate (if it doesn't fit when you type it, you can leave it blank, print it and then handwrite your response).
marriedtomrgFemalePhilippines2010-09-29 16:03:00