ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresvermont service center

This graph shows that VSC did trend down last year 2008 after Christmas. The data is only from VJ member timelines, not the whole VSC.
Where you see the biggest dip, keep in mind that those month figures are showing the days to NOA2. In the April dip it was taking about 60 days average so go back 60 days to know when they filed...February.

For many who filed in Feb 2008 at VSC, it was much faster than 60 days to receive the NOA2.
Look at these profiles.

30 days http://www.visajourn...l...l=&id=46999

19 days http://www.visajourn...l...l=&id=46589

25 days http://www.visajourn...l...l=&id=41899

24 days http://www.visajourn...l...l=&id=45820

18 days http://www.visajourn...l...l=&id=44397

20 days http://www.visajourn...l...l=&id=47126

18 days http://www.visajourn...l...l=&id=44470

18 days http://www.visajourn...l...l=&id=46781

19 days http://www.visajourn...l...l=&id=44719
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2009-02-09 15:17:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresForm I-129f Question 11
It's pretty clear to me what I would put.

11. Have you ever filed for this or any other alien fiancé(e) or husband/wife before?

Yes, years ago you petitioned the USCIS for your wife (at the time) to come to America.
It's not against the rules. They just want your background, so answer as honestly as possible.

Edited by Nich-Nick, 09 February 2009 - 12:33 PM.

Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2009-02-09 12:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresTime Limit on Completion of Embassy Interview/Second Part of K1 Process
The NOA 2 (approval of her I-129F petition) has an expiration printed on it. It is 4 months from the date of issue. You can keep the petition going by submitting documents to the Embassy before that expiration, but not sending back the checklist right away. They won't schedule an interview until you send back the checklist indicating you have in hand all the documents you will need to take to your interview. The checklist asks for your planned date of travel and planned date of wedding. A later...farther away date...like 5 more months down the road will normally put off your interview appointment to a later date. London tends to try to accomodate people with earlier plans an interview date sooner than people who don't have travel plans for months. Once a visa is issued you do have 6 months from that date to go to the US. There are ways of asking that your visa be reissued of you can't use it in the 6 month time frame.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2009-03-15 18:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFillable G-325a for purposes of I-129F; Multiple questions
I think you too are over-analyzing. It's a judgement call for you. Pick the jobs you want that will fit, but don't leave gaps in time. Say unemployed if needed until you've covered 5 years. Or add an additional page to list every little job.

You lived in a foreign country at place #1, #2, and #3. If #3 was at least a year then that's the LAST place. It's not really asking about gaps to me. Or if 7 years at #1 was the only time more than a year, then put those 7 years. Or choose #1 to cover the whole range you were out of the country. It would give them the information they need and you could forget you lived somewhere temporarily. Another judgement/logic call for you to make. On both of those, decide what gives them a clear, true picture of you and what is extraneous.

QUOTE
Lastly, i was wondering why they ask for your mother's maiden name on the form, if your parents are married and have the same last name do i still place my mother's maiden name on this form? She hasn't used it in thirty years, so i guess that part confused me too.

Why? Because they can. They're the government. It's about your roots, your background... if they want to dig into your past on your mother's side. Just do as they ask. My mother hasn't used her maiden name for twice that long, but I listed it.

Edited by Nich-Nick, 02 July 2008 - 12:18 AM.

Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2008-07-02 00:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFillable G-325a for purposes of I-129F; Multiple questions
QUOTE (minibadger @ Jul 1 2008, 02:13 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Nich-Nick @ Jun 30 2008, 04:58 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Parents need a state: Smalltown, TX, USA

Nowhere on the form does it say to include a state; it says "Date, City, and Country of Birth" only, and even in sample forms for the U.S. citizen it hasn't included a state. Are you sure about this?


No, I'm not sure. How can anybody be sure about any of this...even the person that put up the sample. It's only my opinion about the state, which I included, and nobody sent the petition back.

Take the city/town Franklin. It can be found in 37 different states. I don't think Franklin, USA tells enough, but who knows?
Source: http://en.wikipedia.....S._place_names

I think you've done a great job, so don't over-analyze and stress over it. Some of it is just your own best common sense and logic to make a decision. Get the thing mailed because every day you delay could let a couple hundred people in line ahead of you. Now that's more important than only half an "n" showing.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2008-07-01 16:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFillable G-325a for purposes of I-129F; Multiple questions
Mine has been approved and I got it out to compare. It looks exactly like yours for the most part so I will only answer differences.

LASTNAME Firstname Middlename - Surname in all caps in both top and the big box

Accented c in name: I tried copying from your post and pasting into a form and it worked. Type it in Word or copy from your post & paste

No middle name: I would do blank, or parentheses (none) (no middle name)

Parents need a state: Smalltown, TX, USA

Form submitted connection with: Same as yours both forms, but mine shows the whole thing. Must be a printer function. I have HP Laserjet. I think yours looks fine. Only part of the n is missing. Leave it like that.

For proviince, state of foreigner: I used Smalltown, Oxfordshire, UK for mine since they have areas of England, but if you don't have anything comparable, then N/A would work.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2008-06-30 16:58:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG-325A Photo
And while we're still on this subject...
If anybody has Photoshop, here's a few links on how to do your own passport photos. One is a tutorial and one is a template a guy created for use with Photoshop.

http://www.nicmyers....rt-template-v1/

http://www.dpchallen...?TUTORIAL_ID=22

Edited by Nich-Nick, 29 June 2008 - 07:49 PM.

Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2008-06-29 19:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG-325A Photo
Here's the list from UK packet 3. They're not all in London. Some in Scotland, Wales, Manchester. There's some websites that may show where they have other locations. Or take your own following the guidelines given in the link earlier.
[attachment=7582:IV15007.jpg]

Edited by Nich-Nick, 29 June 2008 - 08:46 AM.

Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2008-06-29 08:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG-325A Photo
QUOTE (LauraUK @ Jun 28 2008, 03:56 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Where can you get 2x2in photos done? I know my local photo booth won't do them.

In London near the Embassy in a pharmacy, some say inside the Embassy, a photo place on Oxford St.
London Packet 3 gives a list of about 12 places.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2008-06-28 23:07:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG-325A Photo
QUOTE (Haole @ Jun 28 2008, 02:56 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I suggest you do as instructed. Some forms don't even allow digital pics!

QUOTE (Old Dominion @ Jun 28 2008, 03:01 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
The immigration folks will not accept digital photos to begin with.

QUOTE (Old Dominion @ Jun 28 2008, 07:25 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
That is not the website of the USCIS -- refers only to visa and passport photos, not immigration documents. Better to be on the safe side...get them professionally made even at a CVS.


Go for it Jacob. good.gif

Those instructions in the link are the standard for the petition. That's why they say "passport style photos" and the State Department sets the standards for those.
My fiance took his own digital photo and printed copies at home following the guidelines in that link. They look better than my "real" passport photo. They have been used at USCIS, the medical in London and the Embassy with no problems. I'm sure you feel competent to do your own or you wouldn't have tried. Most passports photos are glossy, but it you read that whole link about standards and it didn't say glossy then I guess it doesn't matter.

Edited by Nich-Nick, 28 June 2008 - 10:59 PM.

Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2008-06-28 22:58:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresTraveling to see each other (US and Canada) after...
I emailed Customs and Border Protection and asked them. This is the email:

From: Customer Service Center <customs@customs-mail.custhelp.com> (customs@customs-mail.custhelp.com)

Response (Andrea) 12/18/2008 08:23 AM
In order to enter the U.S. while a K-1 Visa is being processed, you will have to convince the admitting U.S. CBP Officer that you are simply visiting the U.S. rather than attempting to enter for immigration purposes before your visa is granted. In order to do this, you will need to provide documents to verify that you have very strong ties to your home country. All of the following documents should be used to accomplish this:

Deed, Mortgage Statement, or Rental Lease Agreement in your name
Utility Statements in your name
Bank Statements in your name
Employment Records in your name
Letter from employer stating that you are expected back to work on a certain date

It is also advised that you have a roundtrip ticket and pack very lightly for a short trip to the U.S. The purpose of this is to prove that you have strong ties to your home country and are not willing to sever those ties by staying in the U.S. past your departure date as mandated on your I-94W Departure Record, or by circumventing immigration regulations.

Additionally, you should be aware that even with all of appropriate documents to verify strong ties to your home country, the U.S. CBP Officer has the final say on whether or not you will be allowed entry.

Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2009-02-22 17:32:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI sent my K1 app the same day my divorce was finalized... now stuck!
I too agree with the others. You don't need to explain anything. Even if you did cheat, he would still get a visa (assuming he passes all the checks). It's not in the criteria for being allowed a visa. You are free to marry and you've met in person at least once in the last 2 years.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2010-03-08 07:05:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresVermont or California Service Centre

Do you think we should apply to VSC or CSC though? His 'home address' according to the military is MI, but he will be posted in NY when he is back and thats where we will live. I would prefer CSC because It seems to be quicker haha.

I didn't follow your original post completely. Are you saying you are going to mail the petition yourself before he gets back since you have all the paperwork done? In that case, I think I would use the "permanent" address of his parents home so they can receive any mail that comes. There will be a quick NOA1 arriving. Or they could send the whole packet back if you left out something important...like the check. It would make sense to have somebody dependable and related to open the mail and get in touch with you.

If you are waiting until he is physically in the NY place of residence to apply, then the above concerns wouldn't matter. He could apply using his new NY address since he will be present to receive the NOA1 and NOA2.

The month difference between VSC and CSC isn't that big of a deal in my (hindsight) opinion. But to you it seems huge, so pick the one you prefer. However, if you've got everything, mail it now with the MI address and you're a month ahead of waiting for him to physically be present at the NY address. And you know Mom and Pop will be there to report to you anything that arrives from USCIS.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2010-04-18 09:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresVermont or California Service Centre

sorry, I should add. According to the US Army, his home of record is 'MI' so I think thats the route we will take. Wht should I do about his letter of intent? He sent it to me with the VCS address on it. Can put a line through it and include a supplemental form on the back explaining he thought he has to apply to VCS because he is posted in NY, but really he has to apply through CSC? And state I cannot get a new form filled out because he sent these ones to me from Iraq? Sounds like the route I have to take.

I don't think it matters what's in the address line of his letter of intent....CSC or VSC. The point of the letter is to say he wants to marry you, which it says. It's just going in a big packet and the formality of putting an address on that paper is nice, but not critical to to big picture of stating his intentions and signing it. That wouldn't be a deal breaker in my opinion and they probably won't even notice it. I personally would skip a lot of extra pages explaining it.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2010-04-18 08:25:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresProcess after NOA2
Here's some UK specific information that you might find helpful. It's a work in progress.
http://www.visajourn...fic_Information


The UK Regional forum is your best place to be for the next steps.
http://www.visajourn...united-kingdom/


And I'm thinking the NVC might not be doing the DHL shipments right now because of the volcano and the closure of air space over much of Europe. I suppose NVC can send them DHL and it's DHL's problem how they will get them overseas. You might see a delay in getting your file to London. That's just a speculation on my part.

Iceland Volcano Service Alert

Posted on April 19, 2010

Following the recent eruption of a volcano in Iceland, air space has temporarily been closed by national authorities in many European countries. Consequently, DHL Express expects service delays along several European air traffic routes. We are monitoring the rapidly changing situation closely, and making network adjustments to minimize service disruptions to our customers within these regions.

The DHL Express International Service Guarantee does not apply for late shipment delivery of DHL Express shipments caused by natural disasters.

For the latest tracking information on DHL shipments, please check the status of your shipments on dhl-usa.com or contact DHL Customer Service at 1-800-CALL-DHL (1-800-225-5345).


Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2010-04-21 08:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresEntering US on K1...Is ESTA needed???

You would receive a I-94 on plane I presume as we do from Australia and I have been to the states 2 times now and have done the esta and even though you need it more now for 90 day visits as it is compulsory here now to have one with, I have never been asked for it through customs in LA, they just take the green 94 tear it off and tape it in passport.
Just my experience to share.


Just to clarify. You, barbarajlw, will not use ESTA or visa waiver when you enter the US on your K1 visa to stay. You used it before and got the I-94W (green) on the plane because you didn't have a visa. Next time you come, you don't need a visa waiver because you will have a visa. You will get an I-94 (white) next time.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2010-08-31 08:39:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWon't let my fiance schedule his medical in london

we have his case number for the embassy already, so he called to set up the medical for 6 weeks from now just in case they are very back logged, and they are telling him he needs to have a police certificate with him when he shows for it, and yet he is unable to order one for himself. I didn't see that mentioned on any of the guides? can anyone give me info on this please?


That's the first I've heard about the Knightsbridge doctors wanting to see a police certificate in several years of following UK K1 visas so don't know what to say about that.

BUT he does order his own police certificate from ACPO. Click here. He will need passport photos signed off by somebody who knows him. There's a list of who can sign in the instructions. They come quickly so probably no need to pay to expedite. Meanwhile he could visit his NHS doctor and get an MMR shot, Flu shot, whatever they give for DTP (Td or Tdap, DT, DTP, DTaP), and perhaps some documentation (if they will) that he had chickenpox. Chickenpox will get you out of having the Varicella shot. He doesn't have to get all those for the visa, but they will be required once he gets to the US and files for the green card. Nice to have that covered early and possibly free on NHS.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2010-11-24 11:18:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiance visit while waiting on NOA 2
London will not mail a packet. They will send a letter telling you they have your file and to follow the instructions on this webpage http://london.usembassy.gov/iv_15.html You should note the forms are in the right column. Don't forget to follow each link such as the one in Step Two that says "assemble all documents..." That page gives details of what he needs to take to the interview.

I have read some recent indication that they won't schedule the interview until they have the forms from him (of course), but also the medical results. And he has to have his police certificate to show the medical people. (Something new that has just been reported and verified by a couple of people in that last week or so.)

For the visit, the length (3 months) might prompt questions as it's more than a Christmas holiday visit. Not saying it will be a problem, but has a higher chance of questioning vs. a two week visit. "How can you be off work 3 months?" "Do you have enough money for a 3 month vacation?"
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2010-12-02 09:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK1 I-134 Self-Sponsorship Query

This is incomplete. The wife counts whether they file jointly or not and all children under 21 count no matter where they live or whether they appear on the tax return.

To the OP, the co-sponsor states only their own income, not the joint income and then documents it. A tax transcript won't work for this because it shows joint income. Instead, use a complete tax return with all W2 and 1099 forms so it's clear which income belongs to which individual.


Push--I have a question for you. What if the dad filled in his I-864 (as the joint sponsor) and included his wife's income as his household member? Then she completes an I-864A to give her permission for dad to count her income on his I-864. Is that a valid way to count their combined income in your opinion? Just wondering.

Edited by Nich-Nick, 13 December 2010 - 09:50 AM.

Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2010-12-13 09:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCo Sponsor Question

I'm just starting the K-1 process for my English fiance. Does anyone know if I don't quite meet the financial requirements can my fiance's savings and assets be included or do I have to get a co sponsor? Also, is the co sponsor basically only responsible to make sure that my fiance does not go on any public assistance which we definately won't? If anyone has an idea before I send anything in, I would really appreciate it. Thanks!


London does allow a K1 to self-sponsor. I'm aware of several who have done it. You will find information regarding how to document the immigrant's funds on THIS PAGE. The fiance's assets can make up the difference in the gap between your income and the needed amount. It won't be until he/she attends the interview that the Affidavit of Support is provided so you have 6+ months to get those things in order.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2010-12-23 01:05:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiance not working?

Thanks everyone . . . I just read somewhere once that they didn't like big age differences (even though we don't consider it big!) and they don't like older couples . . . that it gets harder if you are close to 50.


If a personal experience will make you feel better....

We're UK, over 50, and 10 years difference in age. We've zipped through each part of the process from K1 to greencard with no problems or RFEs. London is easy when you get to that part of the process.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2010-12-28 09:24:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresOrganization Skills

Not sure about you guys, but I've been really curious how everyone has organized their packet. We've all seen the guides, guidelines and suggestions. But just out of curiosity, how did YOU do it?


Ok, since you're curious, I'll play along. I used a two-hole punch at the top of the page and put it all together with an ACCO fastener. Check paper-clipped to the first page. Small tabs at the bottom of some pages to help them find info quickly. No binder or page protectors, but slipped it in an old file folder just to keep the pages from flapping about when I put it in the Priority Mail envelope.

Cover letter listed these contents:
  • Payment in the amount of $XXX.00
  • I-129F
  • I-129F Supplement: Part B, Question 18, explanation of meeting in person
  • G-325A and passport style photo (Petitioner)
  • G-325A and passport style photo (Beneficiary)
  • Copy of birth certificate (Petitioner)
  • Letter certifying intent to marry (Petitioner and Beneficiary)
  • Copy of death certificate showing that prior marriage was legally terminated (Petitioner)
  • Copy of divorce decree showing that prior marriage was legally terminated (Beneficiary)
  • Proof of having met in person in the past two years (5 photos, travel documents, passport stamps, receipts)
  • Proof of ongoing relationship (Airline receipt for future trip, phone bills)

My tabs were US Birth Certificate, Termination of Prior Marriages, Proof of Meeting, Passport Stamps since those covered the main requirement of: US citizen, free to marry, and having met in person. The part mentioning "receipts" was our separate credit card purchases showing us in Best Buy same date, time, US city. Also Harrods purchases made on each of our cards on the same date in London. I thought that was a good proof of meeting. I focused on the concrete evidence they need and skipped the lovey chat logs, emails, Skype stuff. I did send one month of a phone bill at the back of the packet. Approved with no RFEs. Your submission looks very complete. Good luck on a speedy approval.

I know it's an awful lot but wanted to include everything we could up front for 2 reasons:

1. So we wouldn't have to do all that work later at the consulate, but could just add to it
2. why not?

London will not ask for nor want to look at ANY proof of your relationship at the interview. Save yourself some time and don't put a scrapbook together. London also doesn't need the US citizen there at the interview. London is a cake walk. I'm serious. (Well unless the UK person was not born in the UK. Then they tend to not issue the visa immediately and do some extra security checks which could take 4-8 weeks but some have been faster.)

Edited by Nich-Nick, 29 December 2010 - 08:36 PM.

Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2010-12-29 20:33:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F question 18 - Meeting in person

Hmm, do you think this would be sufficient?


I think what you wrote sounds great.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2011-01-04 08:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPassport renewal

Hi

Our five months will be up in february. My passport expires in June. If I renew it now. I will have it back in a few weeks but how do I inform USCIS and how will it affect the application, if at all?

Thanks


From US Embassy-London:

Passports: A Passport must be valid for travel to the United States and must have at least eight months validity beyond the issuance date of the visa. Children may be included on a parent's passport, but if over the age of 16, they must have their photographs attached to the passport.


You should get it now because they won't approve your visa with a passport expiring in June, even if you got NOA2 today.

This is your London Packet 3 instructions and forms
http://london.usembassy.gov/iv_15.html

And this is your list of things to bring to the interview.
http://london.usemba..._documents.html
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2011-01-09 00:16:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresBringing photos to the interview for proof of genuine marriage
This interview from Tuesday ought to calm her nerves http://www.visajourn...ndon/?p=7070157

Only showed passport and interview letter. They have all your previous files to look through. I suppose London figures that USCIS did their job well and already vetted your marriage/relationship. They just don't get into relationship other than asking a few questions like when did you get married, where will you live, etc. Easy questions like a chat.


Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2014-06-12 16:00:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresBringing photos to the interview for proof of genuine marriage

I have my interview soon and I have tickets from 7 return flights between us as proof of a genuine marriage. Just in case that wasn't enough I also wanted to bring a bunch of photos of us together including from the wedding and with friends and family. I was just wondering if I will have to print these out beforehand or if a usb stick is good enough?
 


London will not want to see a bunch of photos. They don't dwell on relationship proof. It would be rare for them to ask for evidence, other than seeing your marriage certificate. Take 4 photos if you would feel better having some with you.

Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2014-06-12 14:55:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAnother newbie here with an intro and some questions
4. Income required for 4 people is $29,812. See the chart. http://www.uscis.gov...form/i-864p.pdf
Being self-employed is fine but their tax return Form 1040 on line 22 must exceed the poverty guidelines since they wouldn't have an employer letter or pay stubs like other people use to prove income. Their proof option is the tax return because of self-employment. The problem many self employed find is they write off a bunch of things as business expenses. Example-- their business took in $40,000 but they came up with $25,000 in business related expenses as tax deductions.
$40,000 minus $25,000 expenses equals $15,000. That is what their income is for the purpose of the affidavit it of support. So ask them what line 22 of their tax return Form 1040 says so you know if they qualify. They can supplement their income with savings and assets.

No to additional sponsors unless grandpa also lives in the house with them. One person has to qualify all by themselves but related people living in the same house can pool their money... Like Mom and Dad can combine incomes because they are related and live in the same house.

Edited by Nich-Nick, 11 June 2014 - 03:20 PM.





Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2014-06-11 15:20:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresChild vs Stepchild
Hi--

I didn't realize you abandoned your K1. I guess it didn't go well to get custody of the boys. So sorry.

So your husband is the "relative". I think 17 means how are the listed people related to the "relative" (beneficiary). They are his children.




Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2014-06-23 09:42:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresDS-260: Medical and health information

Dear VJ community,
 
I am writing this thread with an interest to see how many people have had any repercussions from answering yes to the question found on the DS-260 form; 'Are you or have you ever been a drug abuser or addict?'.
 
In my understanding drug abuse is the same as substance misuse which is how it's commonly referred to in the UK.
 
Right now I am seriously worried about being barred from obtaining my CR1 visa for a police caution that I received when I was 18 for a minuscule quantity of cannabis  :unsure:
 
I'm not asking people to divulge details of their personal life, past or current. Just whether they answered truthfully knowing that they have a police record that would incriminate them if they didn't.
 
(I know lying isn't good but who in their right mind would admit to having used drugs, no matter how long ago it was, if there was absolutely no way of anyone knowing?)
 
:help:
 














You might also want to look over the drug related question on the medical questionnaire you will fill out and take to your medical exam. They will hand you a similar questionnaire to fill out when you arrive. Page 9 of this document. http://photos.state....18a_medical.pdf is the questionnaire.

The clinic requires your police certificate at the medical exam. If the offense is on your police record, then the doctors at Knightsbridge will know it and will note it on the mental health portion of your medical results as well. That section includes substance abuse and addictions. Requiring the police certificate clues them in to ask you a lot of questions and most often they will test you for drugs. The urine testing is an additional £48 according to David (PBJ) who recently reported in the UK forum medical thread. His post http://www.visajourn...tors/?p=6988979

He got approved for the visa at his interview. No formal waiver required.

Edited by Nich-Nick, 24 July 2014 - 03:13 PM.







Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2014-07-24 15:10:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresApplicant readiness form submitted but not received?
The best way to contact the embassy is through the Visa contact form. Is that how you emailed them?http://london.usemba...ntact_form.html

Phoning the embassy doesn't get you the the right people to help. They disabled the former helpline phone in favor of the contact form.

Now that you finally got an email, use the email you got to reply again asking for any cancellation appointment. Or use the contact form again.

And why argue the point that you already sent the Readiness form? Send another.






Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2014-08-19 10:01:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI-864 primary sponsor change of address
Sounds logical to me to turn in a new one at interview. I vote for that option. And what about address where she will live and the greencard will be sent. Got that worked out too?
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2014-08-30 17:04:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresMedical question

Hi everyone

I know I'm a long way from being at my medical, but I was just wondering what vaccinations I need to have

I'm 34 and live in the UK, I've seen a list but just want to double check as I would prefer to know that I definitely have them all before I attend the medical

Many thanks





MMR two doses are required, but they can't be closer together than 4 weeks. So if you have proof of only one as a baby, get another. If you have no record of MMR or no separate Mumps, Measles, Rubella injections, if you get the first MMR right before your medical exam they will mark the column "insufficient time interval". Then you get a waiver because 4 weeks hasn't passed for them to give your Dose 2. You never have to get it.

Td or Tdap or DT or DTP or DtaP (One dated no longer than 10 years ago, or have a booster) Those are adult and baby formulations to cover diptheria, tetanus, and pertussis. My husband got the baby version DTP because they didn't have any Tdap at his GP. He passed.

Varicella waived if you had chickenpox. They take your word for it at Knightsbridge if you say you had chickenpox. Or because your visa is CR1, you can get a waiver based on "not routinely available" since it's the UK where they don't give varicella shots.

Influenza (during flu season Oct 1- Mar 31) If it's October by the time of your medical and your GP won't give a 34 yr old a flu shot, go to Boots, Tesco, etc and bring shot proof to your medical.

Edited by Nich-Nick, 29 August 2014 - 12:20 PM.







Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2014-08-29 12:17:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresEarnings, co sponsor, savings

When they look at your earnings and whether they are above the poverty guidelines do they take into account savings that you have?


If earnings are below the poverty guidelines, savings and assets can make up for what is short. There is a formula. The instructions for the I-864 explains it.

Edited by Nich-Nick, 29 August 2014 - 11:33 AM.


Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2014-08-29 11:32:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresplease help what do you think? - thanks
Knightsbridge told me they don't keep records because they are a contacted by a third party (US consulate) so send everything they have to the consulate.

Of course you answer yes to the question because it says have you EVER...which means anytime in your life. You did have a small issue 17 years ago. Get a new statement from the GP like before and take it to the medical.


Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2014-09-13 12:44:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresDS-260 Questions
The health care worker questions are for visas granted based on those professions. Your wife is getting a marriage based visa so she does not answer yes. The questions are not applicable to her spouse visa requirements.


Say yes to the vaccination question because she will have them before her medical exam and before the time her visa is issued. She could work on getting them now even.

Edited by Nich-Nick, 17 July 2014 - 05:16 PM.




Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2014-07-17 17:14:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHelp With Family Name On Forms

I'm going to be the green card hold she is the petitioner does that make any differance?

Well it isn't as critical since your name will be correct on your greencard. Here's my thoughts--

She is married and has the intention of being "Mary K Married" instead of "Mary K Maiden" going forward. So why not start with her married name? That way it is consistent for all of immigration...petition, visa application, removing conditions, your citizenship. Everything to do with immigration forms shows your spouse's name is Mary K Married. Otherwise you will come back and say you are removing conditions and your wife's IDs all say Mary Married, but she petitioned you as Mary Maiden, so is USCIS going to think you changed wives. I vote for consistency.

USCIS is smart enough to know women change their names and they have a marriage certificate from you showing Mary K Maiden and you got married and it is likely she is taking your name. Not every county or state asks "what name will you use" to put on the marriage certificate. USCIS sees the same situation daily. They will get it. They are wise enough to know if they need to look her up in some super secret database that they will need to look under her maiden name. When they see her tax return, they will understand it is before marriage. I think they can put that simple 2+2 together.

Edit: forgot to say. It is my experience that name changing is a progression. You change documents as you get around to it. I see no reason why her first formal use of her married name can't be on these forms. Then fix passport, driver license, passport, etc when she can. By the time you get this visa, she will have changed many things.

Edited by Nich-Nick, 20 September 2014 - 09:58 AM.







Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2014-09-20 09:53:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHelp With Family Name On Forms
What name does she want to use as a married woman? Use that name on every form. She wants her greencard in her name she plans to use happily ever after.

Doesn't matter if marriage license asks what name she will use, or that she hasn't changed all her documentation.

Edited by Nich-Nick, 19 September 2014 - 03:52 PM.



Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2014-09-19 15:48:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresvisiting on VWP with USC kids

My husband filed i-130 petition for me several months ago. We have two children that are aged 2 and 5 that are both USC's and are living with me in the UK during this process. It has been extremely difficult for my kids to adjust to this setup. Both of them were very attached to their father but now are very reluctant to speak to him on Skype. We are planning on visiting in a few weeks. I have read some horror stories about being turned away with a pending I-130. Unfortunately I just moved, and am a stay at home mum at the moment, living with my parents. So my ties to the UK are not very strong. My question is what are my chances of being turned back considering my kids are citizens and are of course dependent on me?



No answers for you?

I can say there are horror stories but there are probably many more happy stories that aren't told. Nobody can really guess your chances because it is up to the one person whose entry desk you approach out of all the lanes open in every US POE on any given day. In your favor will be --
It's a short trip
You don't go often
You have proof that you are going through the visa process
You're travelling with children who need to see their Dad. What kind of mean person would put those babies back on a plane?








Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2014-09-21 12:18:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresInterview date expedite

Yesterday I emailed NVC a request for an expedited interview date; tonight when I called NVC they advised that they had heard back from the London Embassy that the request had been approved. When I started this process I never imagined I'd be making any such request, but a genuine medical emergency has arisen and if we can save even a couple of weeks by this, it can make a big difference.

All the NVC could tell me was that there is nothing more they will do with our case, that it's up to the Embassy now. Does anyone know the process for a situation like this? I know the case is being sent to London- will the Embassy contact the Beneficiary directly? How is the interview scheduled? Does anyone know if these expedites, once granted, really do make a difference in time... or not? I imagine if I tried to call the Embassy to find out how the process works, they'd not be able to tell me anything as they don't have the case yet. Will probably try calling anyway!

If anyone has any experience with something like this, please let me know :)


Here's a starter page for London http://london.usemba...v/imnvcoct.html The last thing on the page "What happens next" is where you are. It says NVC will schedule the interview. I don't pretend to know the CR1 process details like I do London K1, but know you need the medical exam. So if that hasn't been done, get that appointment asap to speed up things. If London (not the NVC) is scheduling the interview they will wait until they have your medical results.

The embassy will take calls from the USC. It costs a flat $16.00 for 7 minutes for them to answer your call. They don't always give great information either. From the UK it's 1.23/min. They can give you the email code whereby you can get a better answer to the specifics you need to know like who will schedule the interview (NVC or embassy) since you were informed an expedited interview was approved.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2011-09-02 12:42:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresUSC paying back taxes

Thanks so much Nich-Nick. You went way above and beyond in supplying me with more info. I totally understand that there are way too many scenarios for you to write anymore!
 
 
 



Maybe with that info, you and your Dad can tackle it together by printing off the forms and following the instruction book line by line. Your tax return will not be too complicated but you must use Form 1040 with the foreign income exclusion. There are short forms like 1040A and 1040EZ for simple returns, but they don't have a line for subtracting out the exclusion is why you need the full blown 1040. In your situation, you are mostly reporting worldwide Income to the IRS, but won't end up with taxes due. If you have specific questions, shoot me a PM so you don't put personal info in a public forum.

Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2014-09-24 14:44:00