ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresDoctors Appointment ? When ?
Hopefully someone from China will see this & respond. If not, I recommend asking in the regional forum for China.
NatPatBenFemaleJamaica2010-01-03 20:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHow to track DHL shipment from NVC to Consulate?
This worked for me several months ago:

1) 2 days after NOA2, starting calling NVC: 603-334-0700 press 1 then 5.

2) Once NVC has your case, they assign a new case #. Ask them what date they sent your file to the embassy & also for the NVC case #.

3) Once you know the date NVC sent off the file, track it at DHL's website: http://track.dhl-usa...?nav=TrackByRef For the reference code, enter EXP 10 JUL 2009A (adjust using dates just before the date NVC told you), with a shipping range of that day to a few days later (July 13 - July 14 worked for the example above). Look for shipments to your beneficiary's embassy.

4) To find out if the embassy processed the packet, call the Dept of State before 5pm: 202-663-1225 press 1 then 0

5) You can also call the DoS to find out your interview date once you believe the embassy has scheduled it.
NatPatBenFemaleJamaica2009-12-30 09:38:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F: Case status

Awww, thanks for the replies.

So I just made an infopass appointment for January 14th, 2010. They offer 4 kinds of appointments for a case that you have already filed. I chose the following option:

Case Services follow-up appointment - If it has been over 45 days since you contacted NCSC and have not received a response to your inquiry. You must bring the Service Request ID Number related to your inquiry to the appointment.

However, I never made an initial inquiry? Does that matter? I'm just wondering what is the current status on my case? Would that be enough reason to see someone? Will I be ok to go in with the copy of my 129F packet that I sent in?


I don't think it matters. That's the one I used both times I've had Infopass appointments. But when I got there, I told the guard that I was there with questions about my case. Then at the window, I explained the situation. I was never requested to give a service request ID number.
NatPatBenFemaleJamaica2010-01-09 13:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F: Case status
I know you can talk to customer service about it, or if you need someone who can see more, schedule in Infopass appointment.

For example, at the Infopass appointment I had on Monday, the lady was able to tell what date the biometrics results were posted to my husband's cases. They couldn't see that at the customer service desk. They just read the exact same status found on the website.
NatPatBenFemaleJamaica2010-01-07 18:25:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhen to get medical appointment

when I did this in Austria, the girl sent in her paperwork and the next week she had her medical exam appointment and the week after she had the interview and then 2 days later had the visa. I think every country is different, but that doesn't make sense, why can't the US embassy have a standard set of rules. Why is it possible to get your visa the day of the interview in some countries and in others it takes a week. Who is in charge of organizing the embassies, time to replace the lazy people.


That's key. You'll def want to check with someone who went to the same embassy on the requirements there. In Jamaica, you can't schedule the medical until you have your interview letter, but some countries don't have that requirement.
NatPatBenFemaleJamaica2010-01-09 13:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresThis Newbie is sooo confused...
The USC completes it & submits here in the USA.

You're far from it, but don't forget to get the copy of the DS-3025 when she/he has the medical exam before the interview. If they won't give it to you, bring a sample & point out that it says at the bottom "Give copy to applicant." This may save him/her some jabs in the future.
NatPatBenFemaleJamaica2010-01-07 18:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresProblems with the G-325 form
The typewriter tool does not work in the fillable portions of the form.

QUOTE (linavilaa @ Aug 17 2009, 11:24 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
First go to http://www.uscis.gov...form/g-325a.pdf

Click on File (at the top-left window side)

Click on Save As.. (Adobe PDF files)

Then open file on your computer using Adobe Reader 9.0



QUOTE (linavilaa @ Aug 17 2009, 11:34 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Adobe Reader has a tool call typewriter!

Open your g-325a.pdf file

click on Tools

drag the mouse to Typewriter

click on Show Typewriter Toolbar

that tool allows you to write over any part of the form
and you can change the size of the text , spaces and font.


If you have any questions you can reply me! good luck!!!



childress_londonFemaleIran2009-10-04 13:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresProblems with the G-325 form
The new form only prints out one copy. Does this mean they only need one copy now and not four?
childress_londonFemaleIran2009-10-04 13:53:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI am sending in my timeline with my I129F
If you are frontloading a timeline, there is no need to address it to anyone. It will be a part of your evidence.

For HCMC, they do not ask for a timeline until you get to the interview (usually if they need more time to process your case...) . In this case, you will need to make sure to have it notarized.
lindal24FemaleVietnam2009-10-08 11:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAOS - Affadavit of Support
QUOTE (RUSSandRACHEL @ Sep 12 2009, 05:37 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Even though my fiance and I are waiting on our NOA2 for the K1 visa, we have decided to go ahead and compile the forms for the Embassy interview (in London) and for the Adjustment of Status package that we'll send off after we get married (Next June all going well).

On the "Guides" section of this website it says that for AOS we should send off I-864 Affadavit of Support, but, I have also come across form I-134 also. Which one should I use for AOS and which one should be completed ready for the Embassy Interview?

Also another thing... does anyone know when filing for AOS, should the beneficiary's name on the paperwork be her new name? As, I will then be married and taking my fiance's name, or should it all be in my maiden name, as per the I-129F Petition?

Help!

Thanks in advance for your replies. This website is amazing and we wouldnt have gotten this far without it!
good.gif


As stated before, I-134 for the interview, I-864 for AOS.

After we were married, my wife applied for the Social Security card with her married name. Once she received that (about 7 days), we filed for AOS with her married name. Now all documents from Immigration have her merried name.
joeyjoeyMaleBrazil2009-09-12 18:27:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresForgot document! Possible to send in before RFE?
QUOTE (RingoRiver @ Sep 17 2009, 06:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi-
Long time viewer first time poster.

I sent in my 1-129F packet in early August this year. I realized recently after going through the photocopies of the documents I sent that I forgot to include one page in my packet (even though I thought I checked about 20x! LOL).

It's not any of the official documents- but a summary page that I made explaining each piece of supplemental evidence that I included. (I-129F question 18 supplement.) I gave a brief description of the four times we met in the past two years. I had a variety of supporting evidence- hotel reciepts, itineraries, boarding passes, etc. I am worried that without the Summary page it will all seem jumbled up. I breifly answered the question on the form itself- but this page goes into much more detail.

Anyways- my question is it possible to send in additional info BEFORE the packet is analyzed/before receiving an RFE?
I would like to send in this summary page. I also found some additional hotel receipts and boarding passes that I did not send the first time. And we didn't include photocopies of every page of her passport- just the pages with entry stamps when she came to visit me in America.

Is it possible to add to your packet before being requested? And if so what is the best method?

Thanks!

-J


Do not send anything more! If they want something more from you, they will send an RFE. Otherwise, your additional documents will either be lost or just cause confusion. So just wait. They will tell you what to do next.

joeyjoeyMaleBrazil2009-09-18 13:48:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhen did you buy the airline ticket for your Fiancee??
QUOTE (kike @ Oct 22 2009, 09:09 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
A) Once you new the interview day
cool.gif After Interview
C) Once Kiev had your filed
D) Other


I was planning to buy the ticket after I get the interview date. I'm thiking of buying a tiket departing from Kiev 15 days after the interview. What do you think???


joeyjoeyMaleBrazil2009-10-26 10:21:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPacket that is sent to my fiance in Japan after the NOA2
QUOTE (Barry and Ami @ Dec 31 2009, 01:30 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Are the instructions and forms in English or Japanese? It would be alot easier for my fiance if they were in Japanese...

After she receives that packet will anything else be sent to her?



She will get the forms in both languages. After she returns the required form, the only other notification she'll receive is the Interview date from the Consulate.
joeyjoeyMaleBrazil2009-12-31 14:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurestranslations for proof of ongoing relationship
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Dec 30 2009, 09:35 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Yes. You can translate your own documents. Certify them with the statement...

I, _______________________________ certify I am competent in the English and ___________ languages and that this is a true and accurate translation of the _____________ document. Translated from the original on __________________(date)


_________________________ (signature)
Printed name
Printed address
Printed telephone number




This is exactly what I did. I translated Fernanda's birth certificate. Then I added this document with the above statement to my packet.

Edited by joeyjoey, 31 December 2009 - 03:27 PM.

joeyjoeyMaleBrazil2009-12-31 15:26:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAfter NOA2, what is there left to do for the USC?
QUOTE (Barry and Ami @ Dec 31 2009, 02:25 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Does it need to be notarized?



Yes, it needs to be Notarized.
joeyjoeyMaleBrazil2009-12-31 15:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAfter NOA2, what is there left to do for the USC?
QUOTE (EasternDE @ Dec 31 2009, 02:02 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
+ Tax transcripts and any other supporting document (employer letter, bank statement, etc...). Any income or asset used needs to be supported by document
+ Renewed letter of intent


And it is fiancéE, as I assume the japanese one of the two of you is the girl on the picture. wink.gif




Get I-134 notarized and send to beneficiary before Interview.
joeyjoeyMaleBrazil2009-12-31 15:22:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresVSC to NVC for K-1
I'd call them again and speak to a real person.
TexPolMalePoland2009-09-17 13:08:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureswhat happens if we don't get the K-1 in time???
Make sure that you cross all ur T's and dot ur I's because u don't want any thing to go wrong. Best wishes for u guys, I hope all goes well.. Bless & Respect star_smile.gif
notmrshamiltonnowFemaleJamaica2009-08-27 20:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresmy k1 visa got denied, need advises ...
QUOTE (jenroy @ Sep 20 2009, 07:01 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
CR-1 ? first time ive heard of this , ill google this and just read about it , thanks for the reply guys



CR1 is the I130
notmrshamiltonnowFemaleJamaica2009-09-21 15:13:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresWhat form do i need for co-sponsor? I-864?
QUOTE (Stephen + Elisha @ Aug 26 2009, 09:29 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Hemal @ Aug 26 2009, 10:04 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi, all i just got my NOA2 ( after 160 days ) smile.gif smile.gif

Well few questions for you guys.
1. how much income or in bank I need to prove enough support in I-134
2. for Co-Sponsor what form do I need to fill out ( I think its I-864 )
3. and what all will I need with my I-134 ( tax return, bank latter whatelse?)
4. and what will my Co-Sponsor need with her I-864

guys any help would be gr8 help for us. Sorry to ask so many question just wanted to make sure there if no more delay for her to come here now. smile.gif

Thanks
Hemal

1. You need to demonstrate an income of at least 125% of the current poverty guidelines based on your household size (i.e., number of dependents including the immigrant you're sponsoring). See http://www.uscis.gov...form/I-864P.pdf. If your income is not sufficient and you're planning to use assets (e.g. bank deposits, stock, real estate, etc.) to make up the difference, the assets must be readily convertible to cash and must be three times the income you require. For example, if your income is $2,000 short of the guidelines, you need at least $6,000 in assets to make up the difference.

2. For the K-1 consulate interview, co-sponsors would also fill out an I-134. In the K-1 process, the I-864 is not used until the AOS stage. Also, not all consulates accept co-sponsors for K-1s, so check with your consulate to make sure.

3. If you are qualifying solely on the basis of income: pay stubs, a letter from your employer stating your position and salary, and one or two years' worth of tax forms are a good start. If you need to use assets, then bank letters, stock certificates, etc.

4. Cosponsor would require the same supporting documents as above for her I-134.


I just went thru this a month ago, so its fresh- i'll tell you my experience. i had to get a co sponsor due to my 2008 tax return being a little "weak" from being unemployed a few months in 2008. i had already submitted the I-134. what i needed from my co-sponsor was;

1. their 2008 tax 1040 and W-2's [ not the whole return ]
2. a job letter stating how long they worked at the current job and hourly wage rate
3. they had to complete the I-1864
4. a notarized copy of passport or birth certificate or green card- must be notarized!

i dont know if consulates vary that much but this is what we had to go thru. the statement that the I-864 isnt used in
k-1 until AOS stage isnt accurate becuz we just had to do one with a co-sponsor. to be on the safe side, contact the embassy/consulate yourself and ask what they require. they should tell you without a problem. we gave them what they asked for and had the approved visa the following week. im going to get here next week-YEAH!!!! biggrin.gif Good Luck!

tulumMaleTrinidad and Tobago2009-08-27 15:47:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAm I just lucky? Process seems to be going quickly.
QUOTE (tony1343 @ May 4 2009, 12:18 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Ok, so I applied for the K-1 Visa (I-129F petition) around February 20, 2009. I received a letter from the NVC saying they were going to forward the petition to consulate in Guangzhou on April 14, 2009.

So I have never actually received the NOA2. That's the unlucky part. I figured I'd give it a little more time. But I really need to get on the phone tomorrow and start calling.

Yesterday on May 2, my fiancee received the packet (I believe this is Packet 3) from the Guangzhou consulate.

This seems incredibly fast. I thought there was supposed to be a multiple months long delay through customs in China. That doesn't seem to be the case.

Now we are scrambling to get all the forms. I still haven't mailed her all the proof of our relationship I have or the I-134 Affidavit of Support information (because I am still waiting on my work to provide me with a letter, though I have tax forms, etc).

This is going incredibly fast. I'm planning a trip to China in July or August and I thought I would just be bringing her all the evidence then (so as not to risk international post), but now it looks like a real possibility that her interview will be before that.

Anyone else having similar experiences? Has the government cleaned up its act or something? Thanks.

i would have to agree with the other poster that luck probably didnt have as much to do with it as the right timing,no backlog of cases, etc. sometimes things move faster at the Cali office than the Vermont office and sometimes vice versa. its too late for this advice, but i gathered EVERYTHING BEFORE i filed [ copies of birth cert., proof of relationship, hotel receipts, boarding passes, tickets, etc of both of us ] copied everything several times and gave her a packet and kept 2 for myself. you might want to get all that together and fed ex it to her- do not rely on regular mail. if you could take it and put it in her hands- that would be best, but fed ex is the next best thing. i envy you having the shortest waiting time i've heard of. Congrats and good luck! get those papers to your woman asap!


tulumMaleTrinidad and Tobago2009-05-04 18:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPhilippines: K1 / K2 -- Utterly Confused! Please advise?
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Oct 27 2009, 09:21 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (KJamal99 @ Oct 27 2009, 02:44 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Oh no, they are DEFINITELY attached! But in my eye, nothing is impossible... To me, there is a glimmer of hope because their father did remarry this year. My intent would be to suggest to my friend that she try to start "weaning" her sister off of her, and help her get acquainted with the step-mother. She tells me, "it's up to you" a lot; so I think that if I suggest this, she would at least consider it. The attachment is definitely stronger on the sister's side, but I think my friend could possibly handle being away from her for a short time as long as she knew they would reunite here soon. If I marry this woman, I just want to be alone with her for at least a year or two - it's not like I want to seperate them indefinitely.

Anyway, so good. We plan to get her adopted first... I understand if she has a good case for adopting - which I think she does - then that process takes about 6 months. THEN, AFTER THE LEGAL ADOPTION OF HER SISTER, we will begin filing for the K1. So at his point, it seems like you are saying my friend can legally claim her sister as her dependent, correct? And you are saying we need to list her on I-156K and some other "initial paperwork". My question is, will it be obvious where I need to list her? I work in Technology, so government and government paperwork... It's just an entirely different language to me! sad.gif

But is what I am getting from you this, that as long as the sister (adopted daughter) follows WITHIN 2 YEARS, then she can come as an automatic K2? But if we wait longer than that, then we will have some problems? If so, I think two years would be ideal. She should be about 14 then, and time to begin high school. Plus, automatic/free babysitter (when I have kids)! biggrin.gif



IF she is adopted as a daughter, and I am not sure she can do that, but cannot say, then her adopted child would be listed on the I-129f petition as her child. When the petition is approved the child would need to file an application for the K-2, basically a repeat of the K-1, all forms, fees, medical exam, etc. The K2 MUST be issued within ONE year of the "mothers" K1, NOT two years. Then the child will have up to six months to use the K2. The arrival of her "child" could then be delayed up to 18 months from when the "mothers" visa is issued. This is a "hard" line. If you plan to do this, the adoption must be completed before you file the petition for a K-1, otherwise it is not her "child".

I am no expert in the area but I have never heard of a sibling "adopting" another sibling. Being designated a guardian? Yes, but to adopt them as their "child" I have never heard of this.


Hi Alla, thanks or clearing up that one-year, two-year confusion.

So whenever you adopt a child, don't you just adopt them as your dependent, and you choose to call them whatever they are (son, daughter, brother, sister, cousin)? Because apparently, many Filipinos adopt relatives. And I thought I'd seen cases here in the States where an older sibling, would adopt his or her younger siblings/step-siblings if, for some reason, they were going to go into foster care. So in order to keep the family from being split up, an older sibling will adopt the younger ones. Okay so quite literally, without my friend, the family falls apart financially. If the shared residence is the problem, what if my friend moved to room in the next town, and then filed for adoption? Does it make any difference?

Here is what is causing my confusion: http://www.holtinter...faq.shtml#faq14. Please look at the last few lines on this page, about Relative Adoption in the Philippines.
Kris & LiezlMalePhilippines2009-10-28 13:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPhilippines: K1 / K2 -- Utterly Confused! Please advise?
QUOTE (TinTin and Samby @ Oct 27 2009, 08:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
You may consider this unsolicited advise. If so, please do not be offended. I only offer it as an opservation after reading through this entire thread, incuding your original post and all of your replies.

With respect, it seems you may not have a good deal of experience with the Filipino culture. It can be very dangerous to project american based logic and reactions onto people of other cultures, including, among others, Filipinos. For example your last post with the "up to you" comment that you referenced - in general if would be a mistake to take that comment literally and at face value. I think BARON555 said it best: "sounds like a very messy situation". You might consider the possibilities of spending more time there in the PI as your friendship and courtship grows and evolves. In addition allowing more time to expore the desires, options and pragmatic realities of a Filipino beaurocracy allowing an 11 year old child with a still living father, who lives in the same household to relenquish his parental legal rights and have that girl be legally adopted by her sister, who is living in that same household as the natural father. Older Siblings caring (financially and emotionally) for their other younger sibllings is a common thing in the philippines. So is children caring financially for their parents (even when those parents are not particularily 'old'). This situation is common, accepted and to some degree expected - formalizing it with legal procedings is an entirely different ball of wax, however. Unfortunately, US Immigration law only recongnizes legally formalized situations, not cultural ones. Therein lies the problem.

Whatever you decide, I wish you nothing but success for what you want and much happiness.

Warm Regards,
Samby



I am not offended at all...smile.gif Just a little confused. I don't know what you mean by "it can be very dangerous to project american based logic and reactions onto people of other cultures", or even where/when I have done that. I don't know if you saw in my first post, but I have been friends with this woman since my Fall 2001 semester of college, it is just that I only recently visited the country. In that 9 years, I have come to learn a great deal, in my opinion, about the country, it's people, the culture, and my friend's life as well through encyclopedias, news, Filipino-Americans, and through correspondence with my friend. I am actually well aware of the fact that older siblings, particularly daughters, generally support the family financially. I know she is, and many of her friends I met were also their family "breadwinners" (some, even, while relatives did nothing and/or drank the money away). So I know this is the norm there, and I am not trying to disrupt that. Unfortunately, I cannot afford to spend more time in the PI currently. Being 28, I have many, many years before retirement; and paid time off is simply not adequate.

My friend has always wanted to come here, even before their mom died. Her dad even told me, she has dreamt of going to America since she was a little girl. When I first started working, I went on another forum to ask about tourist visas, where I was told that it is quite impossible for Filipinos to get them. So instead, I saved money, and accrued vacation so I could visit her. And like I said, we realized at that time, that what we had was more than a "friendship". She STILL wants to come here, and I also want her to be here... And it turns out, I have the ability (marriage) to help us both realize this dream. It's just that now there's another piece to the puzzle - she is now directly caring for a younger sister.

Okay, if I had to guess, their father travels a good 50-75% of the year seeking jobs. He shares the same address, but he doesn't "live" there. When I visited, he was around for literally 2 days. None of his children really "know" their step-mother, and she rarely stays with them when their father is on other islands. My friend, out of 5 people (father, step-mother, [alcoholic] brother, sister and herself) is the only gainfully employed person. Why is this NOT a perfect case for "Filipino beaurocracy" to allow the older, responsible sibling to adopt the younger so they can both move to Cebu or Manila for better opportunities? That is what I don't get! Surely there are some Transfer of Custody forms they can just fill out, which "Filipino beaurocracy" can charge a certain fee for - it's not like they don't LOVE everything they can charge a fee for there.

It is not like she will be abandoning her family. I anticipate that she will be sending plenty of money to her family over time, and visiting as erqularly as finances and time allow. The problem is, because of their bond - and the environment she's be left in - her sister is just "part of the deal", to put it simply.

This is what is giving me the [false?] impression that she might be able to adopt her sister (very bottom of that page):
http://www.holtinternational.org/philippines/faq.shtml#faq14
Relative Adoption?
Many families would like to consider adopting a relative of theirs who currently lives in the Philippines. In order for you to pursue a relative adoption, the child you are interested in adopting needs to meet the criteria for an orphan both by Philippine and United States immigration requirements. The US Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) defines the word orphan under two conditions:
a. The child must either have no parents
b. A sole or surviving parent who is unable to care for the child and has, in writing, irrevocable released the child for emigration and adoption.

My friend knows her father would be willing to do letter B. Because if SHE leaves, then HE can no longer travel seeking work. And since there are NO jobs where they live now, how could he support his family if he's stuck there? I mean, am I missing something or what?
Kris & LiezlMalePhilippines2009-10-28 12:53:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPhilippines: K1 / K2 -- Utterly Confused! Please advise?
QUOTE (MikeInWyoming @ Oct 27 2009, 09:55 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (KJamal99 @ Oct 26 2009, 03:52 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Another question guys...

So if my friend can adopt her sister, and if we do get married, does her sister HAVE to come at the same time as my wife? OR can she come at a later time? What would we do, just petition for her? Or since she will technically be the "daughter", then we can just buy a plane ticket and bring her over, right?

I want to suggest something like this to my friend. That way, we will have a few years with just the two of us. Then maybe in two years, we could bring the sister/daughter. By then, I think my friend/wife would be working in her field and contributing to finances...
Because I think I could only afford to immigrate them one at a time...


If they are joined at the hip and the child is 11 - and if your fiancee is really as concerned as you say - this second option seems impossible - or it is not quite as you say. You epiphany that you have a "package deal" seems to be not as clear a revelation!

However according to the immigration rules if the child is legally adopted by your fiancee BEFORE you start the K1 filing and is listed as a dependent daughter in the initial paperwork and on the I-156K, then she has some time with which to follow later her adopted mother as an automatic k2 visa recipient. Otherwise you have to refile for her later - separate process. But at no point it is longer that two years. Anything you would do, needs to be within two years without creating the requirement a far longer process.


Oh no, they are DEFINITELY attached! But in my eye, nothing is impossible... To me, there is a glimmer of hope because their father did remarry this year. My intent would be to suggest to my friend that she try to start "weaning" her sister off of her, and help her get acquainted with the step-mother. She tells me, "it's up to you" a lot; so I think that if I suggest this, she would at least consider it. The attachment is definitely stronger on the sister's side, but I think my friend could possibly handle being away from her for a short time as long as she knew they would reunite here soon. If I marry this woman, I just want to be alone with her for at least a year or two - it's not like I want to seperate them indefinitely.

Anyway, so good. We plan to get her adopted first... I understand if she has a good case for adopting - which I think she does - then that process takes about 6 months. THEN, AFTER THE LEGAL ADOPTION OF HER SISTER, we will begin filing for the K1. So at his point, it seems like you are saying my friend can legally claim her sister as her dependent, correct? And you are saying we need to list her on I-156K and some other "initial paperwork". My question is, will it be obvious where I need to list her? I work in Technology, so government and government paperwork... It's just an entirely different language to me! sad.gif

But is what I am getting from you this, that as long as the sister (adopted daughter) follows WITHIN 2 YEARS, then she can come as an automatic K2? But if we wait longer than that, then we will have some problems? If so, I think two years would be ideal. She should be about 14 then, and time to begin high school. Plus, automatic/free babysitter (when I have kids)! biggrin.gif

Kris & LiezlMalePhilippines2009-10-27 13:44:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPhilippines: K1 / K2 -- Utterly Confused! Please advise?
QUOTE (AllRightsReserved @ Oct 22 2009, 04:22 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Please take a look on this website on one of the most reliable Immigration Law Firm where a lot of Filipinos turn to as their last resort. Just want to be of help. Good luck.

http://www.gurfinkel.com



Another question guys...

So if my friend can adopt her sister, and if we do get married, does her sister HAVE to come at the same time as my wife? OR can she come at a later time? What would we do, just petition for her? Or since she will technically be the "daughter", then we can just buy a plane ticket and bring her over, right?

I want to suggest something like this to my friend. That way, we will have a few years with just the two of us. Then maybe in two years, we could bring the sister/daughter. By then, I think my friend/wife would be working in her field and contributing to finances...
Because I think I could only afford to immigrate them one at a time...
Kris & LiezlMalePhilippines2009-10-26 16:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPhilippines: K1 / K2 -- Utterly Confused! Please advise?
QUOTE (jroc @ Oct 22 2009, 02:58 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Dakine @ Oct 22 2009, 01:04 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
If she can adopt her then you can bring the "daughter" with "mom's" either as a K1/K2, CR-1/CR-2 or a K3/K4.

Difficult to adopt in PI unless the child is ophaned or abandoned.


If you have money you can adopt......I know an Attorney in AC that is quite good...will cost about 2k US.....will the father put up a fight or go along? That is the issue.


So you mean to say that I could adopt my friends sister, as opposed to her adopting her own sister? I thought I read somewhere that a single man cannot adopt. And the fact that I am single, a man, AND not Filipino... Doesn't that make my chances of adopting a girl from there an impossibility? Or are you saying your Attorney would elp MY FRIEND adopt her sister for that amount? She tells me, "I am sure our father will not have a problem with this." And he approves of me, so I guess that means he won't put up a fight.

In any event, I wouldn't mind getting the contact information for your lawyer.... I am in no way rich/wealthy; but according to that Affidavit of Support (or whatever it's called) document, I am financially capable of supporting three people. $2K would not be too bad of a hit. How much is the whole Fiance/Visa process? What if I also went with him to go through the Fiancee or Spouse visa process? Would he give a discount on the two (adoption + fiancee/spouse visa)? Can you tell me how to contact this Attorney?
Kris & LiezlMalePhilippines2009-10-22 15:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPhilippines: K1 / K2 -- Utterly Confused! Please advise?
QUOTE (Dakine @ Oct 22 2009, 01:04 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
If she can adopt her then you can bring the "daughter" with "mom's" either as a K1/K2, CR-1/CR-2 or a K3/K4.

Difficult to adopt in PI unless the child is ophaned or abandoned.


Interesting. You are not the first person I've seen say that it is difficult to adopt in the Philippines. However, I have also read on their official government site about adoptions, and it doesn't sound hard. It mentions about local and international adoptions:

http://www.gov.ph/in...n...5&Itemid=40

Specifically with regard to LOCAL ADOPTIONS:

There are three types of adoption in the Philippines:

1. Agency adoptions are those in which a licensed adoption agency finds and develops adoptive families for children who are voluntarily or involuntarily committed.

2. Family or relative adoptions are those where the biological parents make a direct placement of the child to a relative or a member of their extended family with whom they relinquish their child.

3. Private or independent adoptions could either be a direct placement to a family known by the child's biological parents or through the use of an intermediary or a go-between. In an intermediary placement, an individual knows of parents who want to have their child adopted and arranges such placement to a family or someone who wants to adopt.


So basically, it seems like she should be able to do that second one since she is sure their father would be willing to relinquish his parental rights. He has no money, and no prospect of a job. And because he is constantly away from home, there is no way he can provide adequate care for her. Without my friends meager inome, the entire family suffers. To me, it seems like she should be given custody, no questions!

What am I missing? Why would it be difficult for my friend to adopt her sister - under the premise that she will probably take her to a bigger city, where there may be better schools, better work opportunities, and they get away from her partying-alcohlic-slacker brother.

Please advise.
Kris & LiezlMalePhilippines2009-10-22 15:39:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPhilippines: K1 / K2 -- Utterly Confused! Please advise?
I am quite new to this, so there are many things that are very confusing to me, which I would appreciate ANYONE'S advice/explanation on.
Fist a little background (or you can go directly to my questions at the end of this post):

I became friends with a woman in the Philippines a little over 9 years ago now. We are both 28 at the time of this message. Around 5 or 6 years ago, her mother died leaving my friend, two younger siblings and their father. Their father travels a lot - looking for work and very rarely finding it - and is gone for weeks or even months at a time. Her brother was in his late teens when the mom passed, and is now grown. However, he has had issues since the passing of their mom. Her sister was only 5 (now 11) when their mom died, and my friend has essentially raised her since then - they are, quite literally, attached at the hip now. Five years later, her dad is remarried, but the only gainfully employed person in the household is my friend, and she supports them all on a small teaching salary.

After finally visiting my friend in the Philippines for the first time earlier this year (May 2009), we realized we love each other and have been discussing marriage since my return to the U.S.. However, our discussions always end up back at "what would I do with my sister?" or "I am afraid to leave my sister - she still needs my guidance". And after seeing them together, I will admit that they are probably a packaged deal. So my concern is that I love this woman, but I can not be with her unless her sister can come with her. And this is no problem with me. The real problem is, can this be accomplished? Is this possible with regards to American Immigration law?

My friend is presently in the process of trying to adopt her sister away from their dad. She wants legal custody of her, so she can make the decisions, but also so she can move and get her away from their brother's influence. Well I've been reading about immigration a lot lately, and the adoption seems like a good idea for our situation actually, but it is also where my confusion lies.

Quote from U.S. Embassy in Manila website:
"Under U.S. immigration law, only children under the age of 18 at the time their natural parent married a U.S. citizen are considered “step-children” for immigration purpose."

From USCIS website:
"For immigration purposes, a child can be any of the following:...
An adopted child if the child was adopted prior to age 16 (one exception is if siblings are adopted, as long as one was under 16, the other could be older than 16 but younger than 18), AND the adopted child has resided in the legal and physical custody of the adoptive parent for 2 years prior to filing (the legal and physical custody do not have to be the same time period, but each must be met for 2 years)"

So my questions are...
- If my friend IS able to legally adopt her sister, AND IF we do end up getting married (K1), then will her sister be able to accompany her here to Texas as a K2? Obviously, my friend is not the "natural parent" of her sister; but once adopted, she would be the legal guardian of her sister. Do you see my confusion? Seems like these two websites have conflicting information.

- Can a school-age child (K2) legally attend public school? Are there limitations/restrictions on that?

- Does anyone have any advice i can give to my friend to help her LEGALLY and AFFORDABLY adopt her sister in the Philippines? She says she can probably get their father to give up his parental rights... But then what? Lawyers used, costs, time-frame - any advice is helpful.

- Also, is K1/K2 the right choice for us in this situation? We haven't started anything yet, so that can easily change.

Kris & LiezlMalePhilippines2009-10-22 12:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresEstimated Total Cost of K1 Visa
QUOTE (pushbrk @ Oct 29 2009, 09:49 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (KJamal99 @ Oct 29 2009, 07:43 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Oct 28 2009, 07:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Bobby_K1 @ Oct 28 2009, 01:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
What is the estimated total cost of the K1 Visa - broken down by each portion of the process? Here is what I know so far, as of October 28 2009.

I-129F Petition - $455
Non-Immigrant Visa Processing Fee - $131
Medical Examination - ??? (not sure what range to expect)
Miscellaneous Fees for Fingerprinting, Photos, Mailing Documents & Travel - varies ($50 - $125)

Please let me know if I am missing anything !


I think you are light on your misc. fees. Translations? Easily $100, maybe more depending on how many documents she has. Express mailing can be more than $100 for one delivery for DHL or Fedex, check with them about packages to India, at minimum you will need to send the I-134 for the interview. Police certificate? Cheap in some countries, not so in others.

AOS fee when she arrives...$1010.00


What the #^@% is AOS?


In this context, "adjustment of status" but in another context, "affidavit of support". Your question indicates you have yet to study the guides and did not go to this link provided earlier, where the names of the fees are not abreviated. http://www.fianceand...a.com/FEES.html



I see... Hey, according to that link, a K1 and a K3 take about the same amount of time to process - but K3 can be done for a lesser price. I have always been told that people choose to go with K1 because it is faster. The webpage you linked us to was last updated on October 16, 2009 - very recently. Are those time frames accurate? And if so, what is the true advantage of a K1 over a K3 (if one USC simply does not care which country he marries in)? I mean, if they take the same amount of time, couldn't I use the savings from a K3 to send to my friend to handle some expenses on her end? I mean, it looks like you avoid that AOS fee with a K3. Can some of you tell me WHY you picked a K1 over a K3? Thanks.
Kris & LiezlMalePhilippines2009-10-29 11:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresEstimated Total Cost of K1 Visa
I think all of the fees you guys are mentioning above do not even include those she sponsor must send to the foreign fiancee in order to take care of things on his/her end, right? For example, my friend is in the Philippines, where a vast majority of the population has little to no money. How much should I expect to have to send her during this (K1) process. Would you say I'm looking at about $4000 spent, once all is said and done? Is my guess too high, too low?
Kris & LiezlMalePhilippines2009-10-29 09:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresEstimated Total Cost of K1 Visa
QUOTE (Gary and Alla @ Oct 28 2009, 07:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Bobby_K1 @ Oct 28 2009, 01:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
What is the estimated total cost of the K1 Visa - broken down by each portion of the process? Here is what I know so far, as of October 28 2009.

I-129F Petition - $455
Non-Immigrant Visa Processing Fee - $131
Medical Examination - ??? (not sure what range to expect)
Miscellaneous Fees for Fingerprinting, Photos, Mailing Documents & Travel - varies ($50 - $125)

Please let me know if I am missing anything !


I think you are light on your misc. fees. Translations? Easily $100, maybe more depending on how many documents she has. Express mailing can be more than $100 for one delivery for DHL or Fedex, check with them about packages to India, at minimum you will need to send the I-134 for the interview. Police certificate? Cheap in some countries, not so in others.

AOS fee when she arrives...$1010.00


What the #^@% is AOS?
Kris & LiezlMalePhilippines2009-10-29 09:43:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresApproved@Interview
My fiancee is in Manila, how long until she will recieve her visa thru Air21? APPROVED TODAY!! haha one hour AGO! yay!
Justin.IraLoveNot TellingPhilippines2009-09-24 21:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresBirth Certificate
QUOTE (faithgab @ Aug 31 2009, 09:08 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I'd been trying to call US Embassy here in the UAE however its really impossible to get through to their phone line and no response from my email inquiry till this time. I hope somebody can give me an answer here in Visa Journey.

Situation is, I have my BC with me which was issued long time back around 1997 and have NSO stamp but its halfly worn out but still readable and clear, I would like to know if i need to procure a new copy to be presented during my interview.

Thank you in advance!

I believe it should be fine as far as its readable, anyways its been issued years before, My Birth Certificate issued in 1979 its very delicate the paper is gone so weak.....as far as its a Original copy and having concerned authorities stamp in it, it should work out.

samaFemaleIndia2009-08-31 12:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresHow much evidence is needed for the K-1?
My fiance & I are about ready to start our K-1 journey but we're curious as to how much evidence is needed to avoid a RFE or anything of the sort? We have about 50 e-mails each to one another, letters, & a few cards to one another. We also have several photos of his trips to see me, etc. Would this hold up enough, or should we hold off & gather more? Thank you in advance.

fewfwfeeNot TellingEngland2009-08-29 14:21:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion about I-94 on I-129F form.
Thank you, we added the number now. But we have another quick question, my fiance is from England, but we don't know if we should put in the United Kingdom/England or Great Britain when filing any information about citizenship, country etc, or if it even matters.

It may seem like a very silly question, we just don't want to screw this up, any help would greatly appreciated.
fewfwfeeNot TellingEngland2009-09-16 14:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion about I-94 on I-129F form.
My fiance is currently here right now visiting as we fill out the I-129F, & we reached the section about the I-94 number. It asks for an arrival & departure record number, but we are unsure of what that is or where to find that out. Can anyone help? Thank you in advance.
fewfwfeeNot TellingEngland2009-09-16 13:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiance letter of intent.
On the G325A can we abbreviate countries with the correct acronyms, I.E United Kingdom - UK etc, because it will not fit when typed in full. Thank you.

P.s, did anyone else have a hard time typing in the birthdays because they just won't fit.

JackAndWhitney, thanks for your help guys!
fewfwfeeNot TellingEngland2009-09-20 18:34:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiance letter of intent.
Me and Jack are currently filling out our letter(s) of intent and I've encountered a problem, I know how to fill out my own letter of intent, but when it comes to his (Which I got from this link: http://www.visajourn...p;page=examples "Fiance Letter of Intent") I'm not sure whether to include the section marked:

United States Department of State
United States Consulate, [name of country where embassy is located]

[Embassy Address]

For his letter of intent or not. Also I'm not sure whether to include the embassy address on his letter of intent or is it for future use when submitting for the interview.

Edit: Thank you very much for all your help thus far! It may seem like we have asked some tedious questions but we're just trying to make sure we're 100% before submitting anything, we're very cautious and don't want to screw this up.

JackAndWhitney

Edited by JackAndWhitney, 20 September 2009 - 04:09 PM.

fewfwfeeNot TellingEngland2009-09-20 16:08:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F Petition
QUOTE (amykathleen2005 @ Sep 26 2009, 04:53 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Yep. Good luck!


Thank you! So glad we found this site, even when we ask a thousand seemingly pointless questions we still get a direct answer to our problems.

Thanks again.
fewfwfeeNot TellingEngland2009-09-25 22:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-129F Petition
QUOTE (amykathleen2005 @ Sep 26 2009, 03:49 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JackAndWhitney @ Sep 25 2009, 11:47 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello everybody my fiancé has started to panic because we were originally under the impression that we send the initial |-129F package to the Vermont Service Centre. She lives in Texas, now she's started reading other conflicting information from other websites which direct us to send it to the Texas Service Centre, so if someone could give us some peace of mind and clarification as to where we send it, that would be much appreciated.

JackAndWhitney


Texas does not do 1-129F's right now, so what you are reading other places is either old info or just plain wrong.


Thank you for the quick response, so Vermont Service Centre it is?
fewfwfeeNot TellingEngland2009-09-25 22:51:00