ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresTB skin test positive Please help :(

Well Knightsbridge told me that I could have my vaccinations at my go on the nhs as long as I provided a letter from my go confirming this.

Uscis said this isn't enough.


Like I said Knightsbridge doesn't understand the process. Yes you can get a K1 visa even with zero immunizations. So if you wanted to get shots at NHS, they still have to be on a US government official form and signed by a US government approved doctor.

Options--

  • Get the shots at NHS before the medical exam. Knightsbridge copies them all onto form DS-3025. Bam! You're cleared all the way through AOS.
  • Get the shots at NHS after medical exam (to save money), but tell Knightsbridge to hold your report until that shot info is faxed to them. Knightsbridge copies them all onto form DS-3025. Bam! You're cleared all the way through AOS.
  • Get the shots at NHS after medical exam (to save money). They have to be signed off on by US approved doctor. Go to US civil surgeon taking the DS-3025, any shot records from NHS, or some shot record you got at Wal-mart. The CS will copy all the shots from all your bits of paper onto the approved form (I-693) and sign off. (Spend extra money for this...sometimes a lot.)

Sounds simple, but the problem is civil surgeons don't always understand the K1 special provisions of getting to count their overseas medical clearance. It's on about page 4 of the I-693 instructions. They can charge you anything they want. They can say I won't do just the immunization copying. They can insist on any terms because they are in private practice and don't have to accept you as a patient. You also don't have to accept their terms or prices and can choose another CS. There is a thread going called "Civil Surgeons who don't rip you off" where people report the names of ones they found who did only the immunization part and for a fair price.

Edit to add: Another Brit recently had the same problem and summed up going to get free shots at NHS after the medical exam was "penny wise and pound foolish".

Edited by Nich-Nick, 04 May 2012 - 08:17 AM.

Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-04 08:08:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresTB skin test positive Please help :(

Hi everyone

Just when i thought I was all done. I got an RFE because the Knightsbridge doctors lied to me about having my vaccinations at my GP. So I've had to pay another $200 for another medical so he can sign my immunization records.
Long story short, I had my TB skin test which has come up as positive as I had my TB shot at high school with the rest of England. I'm now left with the following problem,Another chest xray which will come back negative like the last one but................

The Dr's here then assume that I must have latent TB (Dormant TB) and will give me a 9 month course of medication to take.

Has anyone else come face to face with this issue? I'm pretty freaked out about all this, just when I thought I'd be done finally with this whole visa issue, something else pops up.

Please help me out............



"just when I thought I'd be done finally with this whole visa issue, something else pops up." You were done with the visa in June 2011. This is a greencard issue.

Concerning Knightsbridge--I'm wondering what lie they told you? They aren't US immigration officials and don't really know the adjustment of status procedures. They only know what shots you have proof of so they can write them on your form. And they cleared you of TB, based on an x-ray, in the written report that's in your medical file. If you apply for AOS within 1 year of that medical exam, then you don't need a TB skin test or another medical exam. USCIS gets that clearance info from your file. You would need a civil surgeon's signature saying you have met the immunization requirements if you got additional shots after the Knightsbridge exam.

Concerning your civil surgeon: They don't fully understand that the USCIS is okay with the medical clearance given K1s at their exam abroad. For most of their "greencard" patients, it's probably the first medical exam and the CS is following the procedure for a first time exam. K1s are a small minority of the general AOS group. The TB test is not an immunization. You didn't need it for USCIS because they have a report already saying you don't have TB (as long as that report is less than a year old). Have you thought of contacting a different CS? Or you can pay for another chest x-ray and clear yourself a second time. Even if you fall into their false assumption that you need a course of TB medication, they don't come to your home and watch you swallow the pill. Throw the meds out. I would get another CS if this one actually "assumes" you need meds without checking you with an x-ray.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-04 07:25:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresDulles Point of Entry
Agree with Dan. I went through the visitor line with him just because I thought they may be better set up for processing visas. Don't think it would have mattered either way in hindsight.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2011-03-31 18:22:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCan K1 beneficiary wait out the time in the states?

We are financially able for her to come here in August and September, go back to London and wait for the Packet 3 from the US embassy.


You don't need to wait on the packet 3. It's all online and can be done from the US, even calling for your medical appointment. You might want to become familiar with the London process so she gets her documents and shots in order before she leaves the UK. This thread will help you http://www.visajourn...terview-thread/

Once the petition is approved, that's normally crunch time to do things in the UK, not be abroad so she needs to know she's done everything way early or she'll be delaying her visa.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-03 18:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresUS Citizen living abroad

Does anyone know any special issues, problems, or tips for people in our situation.

You have to decide if she wants to apply for the visa and do the medical and interview in London or China. Is she prepared to stay in China past the end of the year to complete the steps if needed. Or is she prepared to return to the UK before the end of the year to process in London if needed?


I am primarily concerned with the Affidavit of Support, because I do not have much money based in the US. I have been working overseas for several years, so I have little to show in a US bank. I have filed taxes that show I made enough money in previous years, but I don't currently have thousands in an account. Will that be a problem?

It will be a problem if you can't show current (at the time of the interview) US income or enough assets to sponsor. If you were working for a US company on assignment in China, then a letter from that company explaining that your job will continue Jan 1, 2013 in the US with a salary of $xxxxx, then that should work. But a plan to find a new job in the US after Jan 1, wouldn't work. Finding a US sponsor would work for London. I don't know procedures in China. Each consulate is a little different.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-05 10:13:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCan petitioner have communication redirected?

Thanks again for all your responses, so helpful to know the letter of intent and cover letter don't need to have an address on them. One thing though - I just looked through the I-129F form and cannot for the life of me find one part for physical address and another for mailing address. It just says Part A Information About You: Address. On the G325a it asks for addresses over the past 5 years but nothing about a separate mailing address? What am I missing?


NOA1 comes very quickly so don't file until he has the new address. Simple solution. If you were meaning NOA2 (approval) then there's time to file a change of address with USCIS after the NOA1 and before NOA2. Form AR-11 I believe.

Personally I would use the parent's address as his "permanent address."
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-06 22:18:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCan petitioner have communication redirected?

Ok I must've missed that completely, now I'm worried if I missed anything else. Which do you put on the letter of intent and cover letter?


You don't even have to put an address on a cover letter or even do a cover letter. It's highly likely the contractors who open the mail throw that out before USCIS even sees it. It could have a title instead of letter format.

I-129F Petition Contents

list
list
list
etc



The "letter" of intent can be a statement of intent.

May 5, 2012

To whom it may concern:

I Joe Smith am free to marry and intend to marry Sue Jones......

Signature

That meets the requirement.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-05 22:17:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresForm I-129f Birth Certificate question

hi everyone, Im filling out the i-129f forms and i have a question about #10. I was born abroad to military parents. I have the Form DS-1350 Certification of Report Of Birth of a US citizen and i have the Form FS-545 Certification of Birth Abroad of a citizen of the USA...I do not have the FS-240 or a recent passport (I haven't had a passport since i was 6 and i'm 28 now)..Would what i have work or would i need to get the FS-240 or a passport??..thanks for any help...........:)


They changed the form numbers but your documents are still valid proof of citizenship. Google the forms and you'll find lots of references. Example http://travel.state..../first_825.html

On January 3, 2011, the Department of State began issuing a new Consular Report of Birth Abroad (FS-240). You may request multiple copies of this document at any time. As of December 31, 2010 the Certificate of Report of Birth (DS-1350) is no longer issued. All previously issued FS-240 and DS-1350 documents are still valid for proof of identity, citizenship and other legal purposes.


Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-04-03 07:32:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPhotocopying passport stamps

Lol thanks guys. I didn't think about how they might think we're hiding something, good point! *sigh* The stress of putting this petition together is just unbelievable! And it sounds like this process doesn't get any easier after filing!

The things we have to do for our love :/



Argh!!! I only did the pages with the stamps on!! Luckily I didnt send mine yet! Good thing I looked on here first! LOL! :wacko:


Just an experience from a K1 who is now done with applications and never had an RFE--
We did not include all pages of our passports for proving trips. (Yes, if you don't have a birth certificate the instructions clearly say the whole passport will substitute to prove citizenship. But Lucy has a birth certificate for proving US citizenship in their application.)

For the proof of meeting section, I submitted only pages that showed trips to the UK and his pages that showed Houston. And one from each showing entering Czech Republic same time.

I wrote below each photocopied page:
This is a true copy of my passport
[Signature] [Date]

Uk fiance just signed and dated his stamp pages.


I don't get the "hiding something" thoughts. You are proving meeting within a specific timeframe. It doesn't matter if you went to Pittsburgh, Paris, or Portugal five years ago on holiday. That and blank pages do not prove meeting. I vote you don't need the blank pages when you are only showing meeting in person.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-08 10:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSo is this my NOA1?

Also, what does the EAC in front of the numbers mean? Thanks guys :)


Yes, that's the NOA1. EAC is the Vermont Service Center. :thumbs:

(I included you on this LCL because you'll like this bit of old knowledge/trivia and will catch on)



I'm not sure if the numbering system is still the same because things used to be filed directly to the service center. Now with the Texas Lockbox step, the number assignment could be different. Check it out and see if your number follows this pattern.


What your number means:

Example- EAC1211450303

EAC - Vermont Service Center (formerly named Eastern Adjudication Center).

xx: The fiscal year of USCIS, from October 1 to September 30. Cases filed from 10/01/2011 to 09/30/2012 will have xx = 12

yyy: The working day of the fiscal year when your case is received. October 1 = 001. The example number is a March filing...114 working days past October 1.

z : Either 5 (in database) or 0 (paper files) K1s are database

nnnn: A serial number assigned to your case based on the number of cases received that day, starting from 0001. It's all cases, not just K1s.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-09 07:10:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresprep for interview

Thanks, i must have read that thread from Nich-Nick a hundred times, but i'm still a worrier.
And idea if there is a general consensus whether London tells you on the day that you have been accepted or rejected?


They will tell you. If you are missing anything, you have to send it before they can say approved. Which is why you are worrying I guess :wacko:. Or if you have a reason they need to do extra security checks (additional processing aka AP), they may or may not say approved.

Have you read the London interview reviews?? There's over 600. Look for the K1 ones in the group. CR1s bring different things.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-08 18:53:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresprep for interview

So... nervous time are afoot. I have my interview in London on Friday and i'm going through my folder to make sure i have everything. This is what i'm taking, if anyone thinks i've missed or overlooked something or should include more of something, please let me know...


You look well prepared. My suggested list would be:

- signed visa fee receipt
- visa appointment letter
- my birth certificate and copy
- police record and duplicate
- form I-134 affidavit of support and related documents from my fiancee's father
- proof of my own financial situation to prove i wont be a burden to the state, bank accounts etc
- evidence of relationship: recent signed letters of intent, copies of email history covering 2 years, photocopies of my passport with travels stamps to the US, a copy of a signed contract for an engagement shoot photographer, 5 or so photos from the US and the UK, flight itineraries, postcards.
- my vaccination records
- a copy of my completed packet 2 - DS230, DS156, DS156k, DS157 (in case they misplaced your papers)
- all letters i've received: NAO1 and NAO2 etc
- copy of original I-129, which also included photos, flight bookings and the receipt for the engagement ring.

AND OF COURSE... MY PASSPORT!!


Good luck!
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-08 17:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresGetting Started on K-1 in June

Any hints, tips, good lucks I would be grateful for.


Good luck!

Tips:

Good picture of the whole process http://www.visajourn.../content/k1flow

Guides http://www.visajourn...content/k1guide

Tips http://www.visajourn.../content/k1tips

Some graphs showing averages of processing http://www.visajourn...nt/k1historical
You can get held up at any step of the way. Theses are averages of VJ people.

UK forum http://www.visajourn...united-kingdom/
You can click on timelines of people still not there yet (with the visa) and get a sense of how long they've been at it.

Sample forms filled out http://www.visajourn...ontent/examples

Read, read, read and don't make any plans for a wedding until you have a visa.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-08 17:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSending off the K1 packet 3
These questions would be better asked in the UK forum.


My next question is I sent off our Packet 3.. all the forms that were required… but we also mailed the 2001 form that stated we are ready for out interview. We attached the cover letter and stated the date of the medical. Will they accept this with the other forms or does it need to be mailed separately once they have the other forms?

Yes



Oh.. another question when my fiance did his medical they told him he iwll need 2 shots for his AOS and told him to go to his doctor and get them for free back in Scotland. So….. since he didn't get them at the approved physician will he have to re-do his medical when applying for his AOS? The knightsbridge doctors told him to take the letter from his physian to the interview showing the shots were given to him. Any advise on what this means would be grateful! Thanks :)

What the Knightsbridge doctors said is ridiculous or he misunderstood. They don't look at other shot records at the interview. They only check the report from Knightsbridge. He could get a visa with zero shots so shots aren't an issue at his London interview.

Shots ARE an issue when he applies for AOS. I'm not going to write all the scenarios right here because I have a thousand times before. If you will find out exactly what he has recorded on his immunization page from the medical, then I'll narrow it down to his case. Looking for what is written by the lines (dates or words) and what box is checked to the right if any:
MMR
Tdap or Td
Varicella
Influenza

What is ticked under results?

Is the page signed and dated?
What was the date?
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-10 08:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSending Tomorrow MY FINAL CHECK

Tanya does have a Birth Certificate but it's buried in a storage unit & would take way too much time to find, like a needle in a hay stack :unsure:

Please don't make nervous about that... I have to say I don't know if I would of slept tonight if you hadn't responded... Thank you so very much for taking the time... I just took out that ongoing relationship tab and I feel good... Off to the Post Office early AM... and I might actually sleep tonight :)


Ok, the birth certificate isn't easy to get so the passport is a substitute. That works.

What was not clear to me in your post or repy is-- Did you include hard evidence of meeting...something official and dated other than pictures? Those suggestions I made were examples that would put you in the same city or at least entry into each other's country. You didn't lay out specifics in your first post other than photos. Don't be in a rush to mail asap. Get it right and perfect, then sleep well knowing you've done a good job. Don't forget to photocopy the entire package (and check) exactly as submitted. Then when you start second guessing yourself, you can pull it out and remember exactly what you sent. FWIW--you do not have to send a replica to England. Ashley doesn't need a copy for the London part. Nor does he need your NOA1 or NOA2. Once it's in the mail, the start reading this thread to learn the next part well in advance of approval http://www.visajourn...terview-thread/
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-10 11:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSending Tomorrow MY FINAL CHECK

So how do I look??? Am I forgetting anything?

Here's some ideas from me. I've done the entire journey and this is what I would do if I was back at square one.

-Proof of having met in person in the past two years

HBI Retreat Orgeon June 2011

  • Passport stamp for Ashley
  • Boarding pass for Ashley
  • Anything showing both at retreat like badges, registration confirmations, charges/check for registration
  • Photo at retreat
Tanya's 1st Trip to England Sept 2011
  • Passport stamp for Tanya
  • Boarding pass for Tanya
  • Credit card/ATM receipts from England
  • Photo in England
Ashley in the USA San Francisco Dec 2011/Jan 2012
  • Passport stamp for Ashley
  • Boarding pass for Ashley
  • Credit card/ATM receipts from San Francisco
  • Photo in San Francisco
  • Photo with Ashley's parents in San Francisco Dec 2011
Tanya's 2nd Trip to England March 2012
  • Passport stamp for Tanya
  • Boarding pass for Tanya
  • Credit card/ATM receipts from England
  • Photo in England

-Proof of ongoing relationship
-Meeting Ashleys Parents in San Francisco Dec 2011
- Emails
- Google Chat’s
- Skype Chat Log from Home and Work computers


Many high risk consulates approach cases with a skeptical eye and providing this information early on in the original I-129F package will help them in their preliminary review of your case.

England is NOT a high risk or high fraud country. USCIS, nor the consulate in London actually care about your chat's and emails. USCIS wants to know Tanya is a US citizen, you have met, are free to marry and intend to marry. Doesn't Tanya have a birth certificate?
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-10 00:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFees for K-1

This may seem like a simple question but i am having a problem finding the cost beyond the I-129F cost of $340. Is there a cost for her when she goes for the interview other then the medical? Thanks for all the help!


Have I got a cut and paste handy for you. Tadaaaaaa....

K1 route = $1650 + £269.50

$340 (USCIS) I-129F
$240 (Embassy) Visa fee
£35 ACPO Police certificate
£220 (Knightsbridge Doctors) medical exam
£14.50 (DX Secure) Courier fee
$1070 (USCIS) Adjustment of Status/Work Authorization/Advance Parole

Extras:
Passport photos (10 total for petition to AOS)
Postage
Transportation to London. Twice.
Maybe London hotel
Shipping fees to US
Flight to US
Marriage certificate
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-11 00:26:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresMailing Address left off of G325A Form

Hi Guys,
As I was starting to order my tax transcripts I realized that I have been using my work address as my main mailing address, since it made it easier to secure my mail having roommates and all... but I didn't list it on my G325A, I only listed my apartment address.

Do you think this will cause an RFE? and if so, what would they ask me to explain? What the address is?

I don't want to trip too hard on this, any input would be much appreciated....


You take the transcripts to the interview. If they bother to notice, then you explain in person to the guy across the glass doing the interview. I think it's a total non-issue.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-21 10:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresMilitary Records

Hi all, im trying to get all my stuff together for my interview when it comes through, and i see i have to take my military records with me to the interview. wonder if anyone knows much about this. i have my certificate of service book and my discharge papers from when i left..do you think this is whats needed, not sure what other records there could be. any help much appreciated thanks


There's a military forum. Maybe they know. http://www.visajourn...ted-discussion/
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-21 20:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresTwilight Zone experience paying for the K1 visa interview
That is ridiculous! I would write a formal letter of complaint to several people. Outline exactly how many calls you made. I got lost in the narrative.

Call #1 Chose no option. Got cut off
Call #2 Chose no option. Told to coose _______. She hung up.
Call #3........etc

A link with several options--> FILING A COMPLAINT ABOUT IMMIGRATION,


London specific--

Ambassador Louis B. Susman
US Embassy London
24 Grosvenor Square
London, W1A 1AE
United Kingdom

Deputy Chief Barbara J. Stephenson
US Embassy London
24 Grosvenor Square
London, W1A 1AE
United Kingdom
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-21 12:44:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresi-134 and Financial Support with Freelance Income?
If your freelance income shows on your tax return, then that's a positive. The letter sounds good in support. London will also consider the fiance's chunk of money so she should bring statements showing savings. London isn't terribly strict with the I-134 and 100% poverty line may suffice. BUT the I-864 has definite strict guidelines and you will face those later. However your wife's money could help you meet the assets required to put you over the 125% as it will be in your joint account by then.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-25 07:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresTime between NOA2 and receiving forms from Embassy

Thankyou very much for your replies that's a great help, it's hard to know how to prepare and also frustrating when you arent given an exact date. Still, it'll be all worth it in the end!

Thanks again!


This thread will help you prepare for after the NOA2. It's London specific and will be totally different that other consulates. http://www.visajourn...terview-thread/
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-27 14:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-134 Affidavit of Support

We JUST got the letter from the Consulate with instructions, and I was reading through the information on the I134, but I've seen some conflicting information.

I think I'm the guy gal you referred to posting in the link you gave.

If you're reading things from other consulates, then stop because each has their own plan of busineses. Here's what London says about the I-134 on the embassy website. http://london.usemba...faffidavit.html

This is what I know about London
  • Your fiance needs a sponsor. It can be you, friends, family or even himself if he has a lot of cash savings.
  • A tax return is not a requirement if earnings can be proven another way (like employer letter, pay slips, etc)
  • An I-134 isn't required. It's just an easy way to get all the required info down. That link tells you how to do a do-it-yourself affidavit and all the verbiage that must be included.
  • Nothing has to be notarized
  • If you want to send an I-134 for yourself, you can but they will be okay with only your uncle.
I agree with Rebecca Jo that I-134 does not even have joint sponsorship. The law just says the officer needs to be convinced the immigrant will not become a public charge.

Also, I need to write a letter with my intent to marry Brian. Is there one that is already written as an example of what this one needs to state? I know when I was filling out the K1 Fiance Visa paperwork there was one that we wrote and there was an example that we followed and just signed at the bottom.

For London you don't need that letter unless Brian lets many, many months go by without doing anything toward sending in his forms. I recall someone who waited about 6 months and wanted their I-129F petition extended past the expiration. London wanted to know the petitioner was still on board in the form of a new letter of intent. So you can skip the letter. People also say on here that the beneficiary also needs another letter of intent. If you read the bottom of form DS-156K that Brian will fill out, he declares (and signs in front of the interviewer) his intent to marry within 90 days. A letter from him would be redundant.

Do you also know London is not interested in your photos, continuing relationship, facebook status, engagement ring, trips to see each other or endless Skype logs?? They 1000% will NOT look at it. You will not suddenly be the first (in the four years I have closely followed London), so save some time and bother.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-05-28 00:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresRequest for advice on our plan

Also, one thing--is it better for her, when they ask why she's visiting, to say, "I'm visiting my fiancee to meet his family and do touristy stuff!", or is it better for her to say, "I'm visiting friends to do touristy stuff while I take time off from school!"?


CBP: What is the purpose of your trip?
Fiancé: I'm on holiday.

You answer without telling your whole life story. If they ask for details then answer their questions without sounded scripted.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-03 15:06:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresRequest for advice on our plan

Thanks again everyone. It's nice to see the steps laid out like that.

Here's one possible hang-up that I'd like advice on. The job I'm at now is temporary, ending October 15. I have no doubt, and every plan, of beginning a new job the day after it ends. However, does this complicate my affidavit of support? If her interview is after October 15, I'll be at a new job.

Your I-134 has to be true on the date you sign it. If it's nicely over and you have some good proofs of income, the the interviewer person probably won't even discuss it...will just give it a glance. He may (in his chat) say what does your fiancé do? He's a ________ ought to suffice if she says what's basically on the affidavit. it's a chat and she doesn't have to give names and addresses. And she can can also say you recently changed jobs and perhaps have a letter from your new employer verifying your new salary. Figure it out when you know the interview and your employment.



6 weeks apart isn't too bad. It's just dealing with the disappointment of not being permanently together, and I feel a bit guilty with her facing the interview and med exam on her own when I originally thought I could go with her. I just have to trust her to handle it herself, I guess.

You will be together. It's extremely rare to fail in London unless she's a drug dealer or mentally I'll and dangerous. Save your money and don't worry about going. Again, you can't plan dates in advance. It could be 3 weeks after the medical before she knows the interview date which could be weeks off,,,you don't know how it will play out.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-03 14:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresRequest for advice on our plan

Finally, here is what we're planning. My fiancee has plane tickets to come visit me in the US on June 28, from the UK. I made the tickets for 86 days or something like that. The idea is that she comes here, and we do the rest of the stuff from here when it's time (sending in her stuff once they ask for it). Then, when they give us the med exam and interview appointments, we go back to England together and get it taken care of. Therefore, she'll never need her original return ticket (the one made for 86 days after June 28) unless disaster strikes and she has to go home alone because we haven't got the NOA2 or appointments yet.

Here's a good plan:
  • She gets her shots now (Tdap or Td and MMR)
  • She checks document list for interview now and gathers her items including police certificate.
  • She flies to US June 28
  • Petition gets approved July(?)
  • You call NVC 2 weeks later to get new case number and find out if case has been sent to London. Repeat weekly until answer is yes.
  • You call DOS in US 2 weeks later to find out if London has logged the case. Repeat weekly until answer is yes.
  • Mail the 4 DSxxx application forms to London.
  • By now it's at least August, so get your Affidavit of Support prepared.
  • Call Knightsbridge clinic and make an appointment for Sept. ? (a few days after her return flight)
  • She returns to UK on her current ticket, taking your Affidavit of Support.
  • She attends medical, taking her police certificate and shot record. She pays Knightsbridge clinic to give her the second MMR shot in the series. (you'll save mucho hassle come AOS time)
  • She mails DS-2001 form to London including the requested cover letter giving date of her medical exam and wedding date. Make up a date about 6 weeks after medical.
  • She stays in UK and attends interview.
  • She gets visa in hand.
  • Make a round trip reservation to US. Pick any return date that gives best price like mid January.
  • Cancel the return leg before the return date.

Trying to predict dates during immigration is about like picking lottery numbers. Trying to fly to London during the height of the Olympics is ridiculous. If you and sweetie can't spend 6 weeks apart to logically do the steps required to spend your lives together, then I've wasted my time typing this to a foolish person. You will look back at all the money you wasted and say it was really dumb.

Edited by Nich-Nick, 03 June 2012 - 09:44 AM.

Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-03 09:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresMMR Booster injection

Hi. I'm sorry maybe I am using the wrong terms. I thought a civil surgeon was just an USCIS approved doctor. Also, I will not be applying for AOS for about 5 months from now and would like to get the booster before that time. Are you saying that the record of the first MMR shot will be acceptable for AOS under these circumstances and I can get the booster from any doctor at all? Since I beleive the medical is good for 1 year for the AOS process I wasn't planning on getting another medical done. It does say insufficient timing for MMR now on my record, but by the time I file for AOS it will be far past time to get it.
Besides Knights Bridge saying I need that booster everything else is done. All others are just as you say or marked not age appropriate.
Thanks you for your patience and help. :)


Knightsbridge is not completely knowledgeable about AOS. Read this post and see if your DS 3025 is filed out like 1-4 says. http://www.visajourn...35#entry4732435

If so then your medical and immunizations with no further booster will be acceptable for AOS as long as you file before a year passes. They go by the Knightsbridge date and record.

Doctors approved for immigration form signing ---
In the USA called Civil Surgeons
In a foreign country called Panel Physicians
Knightsbridge is not a civil surgeon.

Read that post and tell me if your form has ALL those items.

Edited by Nich-Nick, 04 June 2012 - 06:39 PM.

Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-04 18:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresMMR Booster injection

When I went to my medical at KnightsBridge I got my MMR and was told that I would need the booster after 4 weeks. Do I need to go to an approved CS to get this booster or can I just go to my local doctors for the booster as long as I take my card to be signed by the doctor? as i can get this fro free. Will this be acceptable for AOS purposes or am I just wasting my time?

If everything is covered (MMR, Tdap or Td, and VH written by varicella) on your DS-3025 then you're done. No need for another booster or Civil Surgeon. One shot of a series is acceptable. If you choose to go to a CS then yes a booster will be in order because 4 weeks will have passed. But if you were as up to date as possible at Knightsbridge, then they go by that date and waive the booster which was not medically appropriate to get the same day you had the first MMR. Go to a civil surgeon and you get a new medical date of record and must be up to standard as of the new date. No medical reason by then why a booster couldn't be given.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-04 16:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG-325A - Province or State?

Thanks for the quick response :) I thought about putting my borough but then i read people were putting their county down. There is alot of conflicting information on what the county of london is...some say it's 'greater london' others say that London is not within a county :wacko:

You don't have a province or state so don't create a substitute one is my opinion.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-05 18:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK1 Fiancee Visa or K3 Non-immigrant Spouse Visa

It looks like the most sensible option will be to go the K-1 Fiancee visa route for us as there are too many uncertains with the CR-1.

Does anyone have an idea of how long it will take for the adjustment of status to be processed and whether I can work in the US whilst waiting for this to be approved ?

You won't work or travel internationally for at least several months on a K1. That's why a Cr1 is a better visa for many. The things that have to happen before work are:
  • Marry
  • Get the marriage certificate back
  • Find a civil surgeon who won't over-charge you to write up your immunizations if you didn't fully take care of that before the UK medical.
  • Apply for adjustment of status (AOS), work authorization (EAD), and travel (AP).
  • Wait 60-90 days on the EAD approval.

Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-08 06:22:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK1 Fiancee Visa or K3 Non-immigrant Spouse Visa

Hi my name is Sam and I am new to VisaJourney,

Any comments would be gratefully received.

Sam

Hey Sam

As said before, the K3 is basically dead now. For a K1 you can start now. Timelines are all over the place, but assume some averages.
Petition goes in July 1
Petition approved December 1
Some time taken to get approved petition file sent to London by USCIS via NVC.
London process takes a few months so interview March 1, 2013.
It is at the interview for a K1 that her affidavit of support is needed. It's not part of the I-129F petition. Should you process faster, you can control when the interview is by not getting your documentation in saying you are prepared to interview (form DS-2001). You also have 6 months after the visa is issued to enter the US should you get it earlier than you want.

Your timeline will vary based on the many steps that have potential for log jam but in general, I think now is the time to start if you want a K1.

If you want a CR1, then you can marry in the US on visa waiver entry, go back to the UK and wait on the spousal procedure. It's a good visa because you get a greencard upon arrival and can work immediately as well as get a drivers license. The affidavit of support will be called for before the interview and is stricter than the fiancé affidavit of support. It will take you a little longer to get the Cr1 than the K1, but you don't have to apply for adjustment of status ($1070) after US entry and marriage. Swings and roundabouts as my husband would say.

Here's the London policy on the support issue. Each consulate is a bit different and London is pretty easy. http://london.usemba...faffidavit.html
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-05 12:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWrong birth certificate at Interview

Hi guys,

Ok so I had my interview a while back at the Embassy in London and it went very well except for hopefully a small hiccup ... I stupidly took the wrong birth certificate (I blame my mum). Anyway's the consular officer was fine about it and basically said that I just needed to send the passport and correct birth certificate in.

Anyway this was also no problem and despite the courier company being late to collect it the Embassy have my documents !! Ok so what I would love to know is how long can I expect to wait ?

They recieved the documents on the 29th May and we just had a jubilee weekend etc etc

Can someone please help as the constant checking on the DX website is starting to become obsessive

Thanks

I've known people to wait just over a week to 4 weeks.

How is it your mums fault? The instructions (webpage) explain what needs to be on the birth certificate and where to order one of you don't have it.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-08 06:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPetitioner is a student....

Hello,

Quick question: My fiance who will petitioning on my behalf for the K1, is a student. He will graduate in May 2013. We plan to apply for the I-129F shortly in the next couple of weeks, with the intention of hopefully getting it in time for Xmas. I plan to live with his parents for the 5 months until he graduates by which time I will have a job (hopefully) and he will graduate - all in an ideal world obviously! And then we will live together. Is him being a student going to affect our application at any point? He doesn't work during the year, only during the summers. Thanks in advance.

You likely won't have the visa by Christmas if that makes any difference to you plans. The petition part may be done, but there's a bit of time at NVC, then your part applying for the visa in London. It could be Feb before you go to the US allowing an average timeline. Some new to the process are confused when USCIS says processing takes 5 months. Thats only for the I-129F petition. Then there's a couple of months on your side of the pond to apply for the visa from the Dept of State (embassy).

Edited by Nich-Nick, 10 June 2012 - 12:38 PM.

Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-10 12:38:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNeed Help yet again :( Fiance leaves in 2 days for interview….

I thought I was in the UK forum…. :/ Apparently I don't know what Im doing… Ill look again thank you

I answered in the other thread http://www.visajourn...65#entry5439265
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-11 23:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCould really use some help!

Hey everyone!
Just a couple of quick questions. My father is being our co sponsor for our K1 and although he makes enough hourly to qualify to be sponsor, he also gets paid double his hourly for over time. The thing is, over time is not a set amount of time. In regards to the employment letter, what should be listed as a salary? How could overtime even be included when it varies week to week? Also, how many tax receipts are required? Anyone have an official link to this stuff?
Thanks!

You asked this yesterday and have an answer here http://www.visajourn...i-134-evidence/
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-12 15:02:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresESTA?

This may be a very silly question, but do i still need to apply for the ESTA when i fly into the US even though i've already been granted my K1 and have the visa in my passport? I've only got a one way flight as well.

Thanks
Jon

Jon--
When we flew out of Heathrow, the line checker guy was repeating to everybody "do you have your ESTA?" Don't let something like that put you in a panic. The answer is " No, I'm traveling on a visa,"
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-18 22:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresInterview Dates
If you put a really far in the future wedding date in the cover letter London requests with the DS-2001, they will tend to push your interview date out anyway in favor of the ones needing a visa sooner. So that might help you a little. You can also reschedule. And there's this http://london.usemba...roc.html#iv063.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-21 06:44:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK1 applied for can I apply for a working visa while I wait and do I need to apply for a new driving license

Thankyou for your help, since I joined yesterday I've learned more about processing times, and it's comforting to see other couples going through the same process. Good Luck everyone :)

Have you got everything in place for the London part? If not there's some good information of what you should be doing right now in this thread http://www.visajourn...terview-thread/
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-22 13:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresTo frontload or not to frontload?
I don't think being denied a visitor visa or work visa or even denied entry has any effect on a fiancé visa. My opinion is give them what they need to approve the petition---
-proof the SO is a US citizen
- that you have met in person within the last two years (passport stamps, boarding passes, etc),
-proof that you are free to marry (every divorce decree)
-statements from each that you intend to marry...yada yada.....

People have compiled lists of things you can use to show being in the same place. Example we each had charges in Harrods on the same date and added that in with the passport stamps. Even being in another country (if you both got stamps) at the same time works. Throw in a few photos in Mexico or wherever and you should be good to go. You don't have to actually be in love and prove that. It says nowhere in the official instructions to send love notes and Skype logs. And at the interview in London they will not want to see any evidence of your relationship.

That's my opinion on front loading.

A tip since you were divorced-- (a copy/paste from something I've posted many times about the English divorce decree) Use a photocopy

Before applying, I had read that people were getting RFEs because they were not recognizing it as official. Here's what I sent and it was accepted with no RFE

A color copy so the red seal shows up.
Yellow highlighter over the sentence from "it is hereby certified that said decree...." and continuing to "...marriage was thereby dissolved."
Highlight DATED:xxxxxxxx
Yellow highlighter on the teeny, tiny print in the footer that says "Decree of Absolute (divorce)"

Edited by Nich-Nick, 24 June 2012 - 07:24 PM.

Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-24 19:22:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresLetter following NOA2

We received our I-129F NOA2 confirmation email on 29th May but haven't received our letter does anyone know how long this usually takes?
I might be being impatient : )

Call the NVC and see if it's made it there yet and if it's been sent to London. While you wait read this whole thread http://www.visajourn...terview-thread/ It's all you need to be doing for the London part.
Nich-NickNot TellingUnited Kingdom2012-06-20 08:10:00