ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresquestion regarding G325a
QUOTE (Karin und Otto @ Sep 2 2008, 12:10 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (bigticket77 @ Sep 1 2008, 05:55 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Should I add that I was a full time student in the section Applicants Employment Last five years? as otherwise my employment history would be a year short. It seems trivial, but I dont want to get any aspect wrong.

Yes you should account for the entire five years, including any gaps (for those reading that may have had a spell of unemployment). good.gif


thanks for that. just as one question is answered and other ones come up :-)

I am getting passport photos taken today. Do they have to be US size ( 2inch x 2inch) or can I send in the standard UK passport photos which are slightly smaller with the I-129f.?

also the supplement sheet which my fiance writes about how we met etc - does that have to be in any particular format ( with addresses of the USCIS and To whom it may concern ) or can it just be titled "SUPPLEMENT: PART B, QUESTION 18" at the top? with a few paragraphs below on where and how we met? I havent found any examples to guide me..

thanks a lot..
bigticket77MaleUnited Kingdom2008-09-03 09:06:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresquestion regarding G325a
Just started out on what seems to be the long journey towards the Fiance Visa, this is the first in what will probably be one of many questions I have over the future months :-)

My fiance is a U.S citizen and I am in the UK, so I realise that the first part of the application is mainly to be completed by her, though I have to complete a few forms. I have been completing the G325a this evening and have read advice on how to complete it properly trying to ensure I dont make any mistakes. One question I have is that I have been working for 4 years, but was a student before that. Should I add that I was a full time student in the section Applicants Employment Last five years? as otherwise my employment history would be a year short. It seems trivial, but I dont want to get any aspect wrong.

All help very much appreciated.
thanks
bigticket77MaleUnited Kingdom2008-09-01 17:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPrevious Social security number obtained with J-1 query
QUOTE (fwaguy @ Sep 6 2008, 02:00 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
no such thing as a defunct SSN... They are issued for life


so does that mean include it?
bigticket77MaleUnited Kingdom2008-09-06 18:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresPrevious Social security number obtained with J-1 query
This had completely slipped my mind. I am filling out the G325a ( as beneficiary for the K-1) and It dawned upon me, when it asks for if you have a Social Security number that when I use to work in Summer camps in the U.S, I was given a Social Security Number when issued with the J-1. I just found the card in an old wallet ( which says valid for work only with INS authorization). I would have thought it would be defunct by now..but I ran a check online to see if it was still active ( whatever that means) and it said it was. Does this mean I have to put this on my form as my SSN? despite being a UK national?
Once your issued an SSN is that your number for life?

thanks a lot.


J
bigticket77MaleUnited Kingdom2008-09-06 04:29:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSticky tabs in I-129F package
Our I-129F is going to be sent off tomorrow, which my girlfriend has made an amazing job of. Its really well laid out, filed in chronological order and easy to navigate through (i know it will be taken apart by the officer dealing with it, but at least its looks nice now.
But I have one question before she sends it. She has put clear tabs on the bottom of the main forms ( I-129.G325 etc) so they are even easier to find. But although the tabs dont cover any info, they dont look like they can be removed easily, unless cut off. I just wondered if this will be a problem? we dont want to have it returned to us.. :-(

just getting a little nervous and probably being too paranoid..but just want to gauge what people thought.

thanks
bigticket77MaleUnited Kingdom2008-09-14 16:07:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresrequirments needed
Hi Guys, first off congrats on getting the approvals. It does feel as though we are finally getting somewhere now. Though me and my better half are trying to arrange a wedding across skype ( for a date we arent even sure of, who can come or even where in San Diego we can get, as its crazy busy! and at the same time trying to get all the information I require for the embassy and the interview..so lots to keep me on my toes, a little stressful to say the least.

Unlike some of you guys I have only just started to try and prep for filling in the forms required by the US embassy in London. Some of the information isnt exactly easy to find..i am not sure i can remember all the places where i have lived for the past 10yrs..must be old age setting in at 31 :-) One question i am having a particular problem with, is that I am not sure what to put for the question where it asks if you have performed military service? or have had specialist training in firearms etc., I trained with the University Air Squadron learning to fly and joined the OTC ( officer training corps) whilst i was at university in which i did get to fire rifles, but I am not sure if this is categorised as performing military service, given than it was really just training( albeit : VR - Voluntary reserve).

odd question, hope it makes sense..you guys have any ideas? do you think its worth emailing or trying to call the embassy to clarify it?

thanks in advance


bigticket77MaleUnited Kingdom2009-01-16 09:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNOA Petition Approval Valid Until Date
Thank you
PippaFemale02010-10-13 16:05:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNOA Petition Approval Valid Until Date
Hi,
I am in the process of the K1 visa. I am currently waiting from the US Embassy to send me a letter which contains my interview date. I have submitted all necessary forms, the last lot of forms i sent including the form stating that i had all documents ready for the interview were sent around 5 weeks ago. On the NOA Petition Approval that my Fiance in Chicago received said on the top valid until November 18th 2010. Does anyone know what happens after the 18th of November, does the approval expire. I know that the interview date letters are sent a month before the actual date, so what happens if i don't get my interview before November 18th?
If anyone has any information on this i would really appreciate you thoughts and advice
Thank you
Pippa x
PippaFemale02010-10-13 15:39:00
PhilippinesAfter POE K1 getting a Social Security Number

For anyone who is interested in Social Security numbers for K1 visa. We applyed for one today for my Fiance, no problems at all. Maybe we are lucky because we live in a major metropolitan area and the clerk knew exactly what to do.(even if the clerk was wrong on some fine point details) But here is the summary and link. It comes in the mail about 2 weeks after successful application.

1. K1 are aligible to get a SSN upon Entry to US without a doubt!!! Here is the latest info from Soc Security website: https://secure.ssa.g.../lnx/0110211420

This totally current Sept 2011 link cleary defines the rules for any UNINFORMED US government employees. But You NEED TO DO as it says on VJ guides. Wait at least 10 business days for the fiances info to get into the SAVE database. Some SS office employees apparently dont know what this database is. Just tell the clerk NOT to process the application for the social security number if they can NOT find the fiance's name in that database. If they can't find the fiance, then just come back to the office in a few days and try again. I told the clerk ( very gently because they are on a power trip to Jupiter) just please check the database and if the fiance doesnt appear please DO NOT PROCESS THE APPLICATION TODAY. Fortunately, my fiance's name was in the SAVE database.

The clerk tried to assure me that it didnt matter if she was in the database - WRONG! It matters because then it takes a few months to get the SSN not 2 weeks. If the name isn't in the SAVE database then they will manually enter the application and have to get approval from Homeland security. WASTE OF TIME. So wait 2 calendar weeks before you attempt to get a SSN.

Then the clerk told me I can come back again "after I got the greencard" to change to her married name. WRONG again. Just read the VJ guide. http://www.visajourney.com/content/ssn
THE LINK IN THE VJ GUIDE is outdated. USE MY link https://secure.ssa.g.../lnx/0110211420 and print this out before you go!! THE SSN document that authorizes K1 to get SSN. Be prepared to educate the supervisor if needed.

Also, she as a LEGAL CITIZEN/RESIDENT OF ANOTHER COUNTRY ( alien) was required ONLY TO HAVE valid passport ( and I-94) no other ID required ( as correctly stated in the most current SSN aplication form: http://www.ssa.gov/online/ss-5.pdf
The VJ guide is wrong here too.

Good luck ( someone please update the VJ SSN Guide)

Hope this helps.


THANK YOU!

We just received a letter from Social Security stating that I am not eligible, even though your links state that I am. We are going to go back and take proof of what they need to do. So bloody annoying!
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2012-04-18 10:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsVJ is ace!
Hello VJ'ers,

I have only been part of this community for a short time, but I must say it's a great place to be. I have been fortunate enough to answer some questions about the immigration process in a very short time with the help and assistance of the people who belong to this community. I hope I am not taking up valuable space or being too self-indulgent, but I just wanted to come here to give thanks....

I know many of us are in the same boat, or can at least appreciate and empathize with other people's experiences. It makes a BIG difference to have the capacity to share, impart knowledge or just wish other's well. I know it means an awful lot to me to have other people cheering for me--people who I know get it. It's important not to feel alone.

This whole long distance relationship thang is a dichotomy of love and longing...longing to be together. In the past the very dynamics of meeting someone on-line felt surreal and weird, and as though my feelings were not valid, because we did not meet in conventional terms. Once again common experiences and sharing helped deal with that process. I found my best-friend in the whole world and there can't be anything bad about that, but the LDR thing challenges and tests you. Some day's it felt hard to love someone who was across the ocean, but learning to cope with the distance has made our relationship stronger. I am looking forward to the next phase of our relationship -- becoming a family.

I am glad to be a small part of a community that is in essence all about love and overcoming life's obstacles together. So, thanks!

That's it from me :)
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-08-28 12:32:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsApproved!!!

Just got our NOA2 approval for K1 fiancé visa! Thank God! We were making a lot of dua (prayers) during Ramadan!

We were approved in a little under 4 months!

Was just wondering does the Islamabad embassy require a English version of the National ID Card (Shanakthy Card)?

Also my lawyer wants around $2,000 to submit the Packet 3.5 documents to NVC, is that worth it, or is it easy enough to submit everything ourselves?

Take care.


Congratulations and good luck with the rest of your journey.
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-08-30 16:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsWhere the heck is my NOA2

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS.

APPPROOOOOOOOOVEEEEEEEEDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD!!!!!!

YIPPPPPEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!

ITS TIME TO PARTAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!

what a relief!!!!

Chigs



YAY!!!!! Way to go!!!!!!!!!!!!! :yes: Congratulations and good luck for the rest of your jounrey!!!!!
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-01 08:02:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsWhere the heck is my NOA2

This is probably the best advise someone has given me through this entire process so far and I am going to see that I can mold myself into the way of thinking you have mentioned here.
Deep breath...
Here we go....

Chigs



I take that as a total compliment and I am glad my words have helped. You can do this. I am cheering for you.:dance:

Patience entails choosing not to respond reactively, allowing other possibilities to arise....you have the power to control what those possibilities are?

I am wishing you well.

Your words are so comforting. they give me some peace. Thank you and God Bless you in your journey.


Thank you. Wishing you well on your journey....
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-08-31 12:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsWhere the heck is my NOA2

Dave,

I know where you're coming from and I understand what you mean but its one thing being approved in less than 2.5 months and then telling someone else to cope with possibly waiting out 5 months. At the time of my filing the I-129F petition, I was prepared to wait 6 months because at that time, it looked as if it would take 6 months for me to get approval. It was really looking grim. However, a month back, VSC really started chugging along. And I got pumped when they started approving April petitions. I understand that you're month of bout made you stronger and you learned to keep yourself busy. I do that myself as well. Keep myself occupied that is. Its difficult bro. Times are testing. Don't Patronize me, Bro (i mean that jokingly with the "Don't tax me, bro" reference).

Being that you're going through CR1, your added buffer gets utilized at the NVC. But you already knew that ahead of time.

I don't think there are any "A.P." flags in my petition. In fact, our mumbai residences fall under the same PIN CODE. Its a very simple case of "Boy Meets Girl." ;)

I wouldn't be so frustrated if folks with NOA1 in MAY weren't getting approved. I am happy for them, but somehow, I can't help but feel brushed aside.

You give good advice, but I can't do much but vent my frustration. I'm sure others in the April boat at VSC feel the same as I do.
Also, CSC folks have everything going their way (except maybe the slowdown in sending the approved petitions to the NVC as of late)... food for thought.

Chigs.


I am not sure whether I am qualified to join this conversation?.........Errrr, scrap that! I think I am qualified since I have been in an LDR for 3 years and I am now at the mercy of the system. I guess, how we deal with this 'waiting game' is also determined by personal philosophy. Here's how I see things....I did research at the beginning of the process and I said to myself and my fiance, "if we figure that this could take up to a year or more then anything that may go under that time-line would be a bonus". I am desperate to begin my new life with my fiance --being apart has now become the exception (whereas due to the nature of an LDR being together used to be the exception). Feelings have shifted - being together feels right, being apart does not. However, each one of us has their own personal journey and their own personal experiences along that journey. Sure, we look for patterns and trends within the system to help us navigate this part of the journey, but really you are not being personally or individually picked out (you know that really). It's just paperwork and procedure nothing personal at all. Sure vent, get it off your chest, but keep a clear mindset too, because you still have some way to go.

I know that at some point (hopefully) within a year that I will be united with my love and we will live the rest of our lives together in his homeland. In the meantime I choose to make the most of the last few months that I will live in my homeland. The here and now is just as precious as the future you wish for. This time now is what counts. Soon I will be gone from here. So, even though being together is what is on my mind it's not the only preoccupation I have. I am mindful to enjoy the positive aspects of my life here. The future is waiting for you and it will happen, but remember to enjoy the now too.

I am not sure that this will help you, but I see so many posts that are about statistics, and policy and trends, and I think the most part of this process is determined by mental attitude. I am a runner so I guess you could break this down into training....pace yourself so that you have the best finish you can.

Good luck!
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-08-31 08:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsK-1 Approved!!
CONGRATULATIONS!!!! Good luck with the rest of your journey.
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-01 14:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsApproved - K-1 Sept 1, 2011 - Manila
Congratulations!

I think it's great for others who are waiting in the system to see people being approved and moving along. Yay for you two! :thumbs:
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-01 17:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.

It's been really helpful reading everyones posts. Seems many realize that the things around you are just things and without your special someone they dont matter so much. Staying busy really helps. Luckily I have a demanding job. Someone here mentioned the little things they dont do because no fun doing them alone. I really understand that! Theres been some great quotes here too. Whatever motivates you just stay strong. I try not to have much free time and when I do I have my guitar. Theres a song by an old band called Triumph...Fight the good fight. Thats what we are all doing. It's hard not to be jealous sometimes of others who have alreday made it thru this and are going on with life but that day will come for all of us. I know some have had it easier and some harder. As for me we spent 3 years getting an anullment before we could even start a k1 because her country has such crazy laws and greedy judges. I flew to see her as much as I could but yeah it gets expensive. This year is really hard because we are spending the money on the k1, visa and hopefully tickets to the US so it's now been 8 months since we've seen each other and thats the longest we have done that. But I couldn't do both so we are doing what is most importantthis year. Sure I could have remodeled my house by now or really stuck alot away for retirement but I am smart enough to know none of that would matter without her so here I am :) Jim.



I agree with your sentiments, Jim.

I think posting how I was feeling has turned out to be a positive experience overall - for myself and others. Sharing a common experience helps alleviate those 'slump' days I have mentioned over and over, again throughout this post, lol. :) I wanted to share how I felt, because I was sure other people must have had those kinds of days too. I am glad that for the most part people haven't assumed that I was being negative or a whiner (that's not my style), but I also don't believe in making yourself a martyr. Hence sharing.

I am positive about this whole process and being in an LDR 99.9 %of the time, so the odd off day is pretty normal in my opinion. Research suggests that on average people who feel happy 3 days out of 5 are pretty healthy people. I think considering the transitional aspect of filing for immigration if we can maintain that balance then we are pretty healthy :)

I gave some one advice about dealing with obsessing with the future and re-focusing your attention to there here and now. I do take my own advice, most of the time. I love my partner, but I do not need him to be a happy healthy person. I think that is the key to any relationships. We choose each other and I think that's pretty special.

Anyway, I am getting some kind of whiplash from responding to all these posts. Gonna sign off.

Good luck with everything, Jim.
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-04 08:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.

One makes choices in life and lives with those happily and devotes themselves to their family. Gee...what could I have if I didn't pay for my children's education? I could have a really cool boat and sports car at the very least.

I would suggest you begin by getting rid of facebook and never comparing yourself to what others have chosen to do.


I appreciate your response and insight, butI was not comparing myself, it just reminded me of the path I am missing. I am not a materialistic person. I believe in creating your own happiness, and being a student and furthering my career is one aspect of that for me. I have a 16 year old son, and I have always been there for him. Going back to study is about 'me' as an individual. And, I don't believe that missing parts of my life that are temporarily on hold is a negative thing. I think expressing how I feel is good and healthy. As for getting rid of face book, well that seems a bit all or nothing to me, based on one incident.
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-04 08:03:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.

This is great but i know i find it especially hard to accept the distance as a part of loving my fiance. Its especially difficult when we can only talk once or twice a week for maybe 3 to five minutes at a time because of the lack of development in his country and the expensive cost of calling there. That he does not have internet in his village and its shotty in the capital. It is ever harder to deal with because i dont have the option to break up the time apart. We can't visit each other and we have already been apart for 7 months. It costs over 2500 to fly to his country. This process and being in limbo and being unable to see or even speak to my fiance enough to make the limbo less painful just makes me angry, really angry


The situation you are in is a really tough one. I agree with another poster that you have great strength. I hope you recognize that. The longest I have been apart from my fiance was just over 6 months and it was hellish. I can't imagine doing that and having limited resources to talk and communicate thrown into the mix. However, it just goes to show the extraordinary lengths people will go to for love, and that is a beautiful thing. This is a quote I like a lot, I hope it gives you some comfort "Distance is to love like wind is to fire...it extinguishes the small and kindles the great!" Roger de Rabutin

Good luck with everything. Stay strong.
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-04 05:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.

I;. I'd rather choose to go home with someone to look forward to rather than living alone comfortably but feel emotionally empty.


I agree with your sentiments wholeheartedly. I love that so many people have a great attitude about this. We can identify and feel the sacrifices, but we know why we made them.

I love your profile picture - great aspect.

Good luck and best wishes.
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-03 16:17:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.

I read this site every day...more than a few times actually lol....and I think I'm the only one that's not going crazy with this whole K-1 process. Granted I'm only 3 1/2 months in and I haven't received any RFE's (knock on wood) I just figure its a lengthy process and a very small price to pay to spend the next 20, 30, or 40 years with the woman I love. As much as I want my fiancé here I tell myself its not a question of if but when will she be here. That's the important thing in my eyes. Being a realist really makes things easier.



I am an idealist, but I have learned through the wisdom of life -experience to be a realist when I need too. I think I balance that out pretty well for the most part. As I have said, I just get these 'slump' days every now and then. We have been in the process about as long as you guys, and so far we have not received any not-so-good news. I hope that continues. I am contented by the knowledge that some day in the future we will be livng our lives together and reminiscing about all of this.......I just figuired that if I have slump days due to the transitional aspect of this process, that others must, too.

I like your attitude!

Good luck with everything.
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-03 16:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.

My fiance and I are in limbo as well. We met in Panama a year a go and had plans to move there and spend our lives there until we realized that without my job, I'm a teacher, he would not be able to immigrate to the U.S. in the future. Because of the teaching crisis we had last year we decided to stay in the U.S. and start our life together here. He visisted me in Texas for six weeks in 2010 and I went to Holland for Christmas, then we had to wait until April for him to come back to Texas. We filed our K1 visa once he got here and then as soon as school let out we left the country (his tourist visa was also going to expire) and spent the summer traveling in Panama together. He went back to Holland in August 2011 and I went back to Texas and now the next time we will see each other is basically at our wedding once all of this approved. We filed on in April 2011 and got our NOA1 May 4th, 2011 and we were hoping for a November wedding, but since it is Septemeber and we have yet to receive our NOA2 we having pushed the potential wedding date to Februrary 2012 and it looks like I will be flying to Holland for Christmas, so we will have spent about 5 months apart.

Thankfully God has taken care of us and we are both employed and able to make it financially. The hardest parts are the waiting, not knowing, and being apart. I know a lot of American couples choose to be long distance for employment reasons, but we never made that choice. I know many of you feel this sentiment as well. If we had it our way we would have NEVER been apart, but because he was not born a U.S. citizen we are forced to be separate. It is so hard, but thankfully we are all doing this the legal way.


I know how it feels to be apart for months. I used to struggle with that element, but I have conditioned myself to accept that that dynamic is just part of loving my fiance - for now :) He has purchased his ticket for December and he will be here for 11 days - we would have been apart for 4 months by then, which is a small amount of time compared to other periods we have been apart. I am hoping it will be the last visit we have together while I live in the U.K.

Good luck with your journey.
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-03 15:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.

I definitely know the slumps.

I actually just started my first job this week! In a high school. I got my greencard in April but held off looking for work until after the summer. We travelled across the States this summer and saw a lot! I was in St Louis during the heatwave!

That's great that his friends are welcoming! My husband and I lived in Scotland for 3 years until we moved to Vermont, he's from Alaska so we are both new to this State. I don't know if that makes it easier or not. At least we both have tomake friends...but he had few contacts when I got here. He teaches college here.

I also love that community involvement is important here. It makes it easier to get involved, definitely. I just started a volunteer job teaching a college prep course to immigrants whose first language is not English.

It took a while to feel 'settled' here. But I definitely do now :)

Good luck with everything! It will be worth it.


Thanks, Helen.

You story helped me a lot today. You sound like you have had a great start of your life together. Go you!


Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-03 15:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.

For me, it's not major things that are missing, it's little things. For instance, there are so many things to do where I live, but I'm not really doing them anymore. Sporting events, amusement parks, music events, etc..... things I would normally like I'm avoiding right now. I found early in the process that when I'm doing something I really enjoy, I usually end up thinking about how much more I will enjoy it when she's finally here with me. Then I end up being sad at something I'm supposed to be enjoying. :lol: So now I'm sort of making a list of all the things I want us to do together when she's here; because I really don't feel like doing these things alone anymore.

Luckily, she should be here soon.

Good luck on your journey.


I think you should have fun while you are apart and then you will have great stories to share with her. Good luck with the rest of your journey too.
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-03 15:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.
Wow! so may of you with so many experiences and great advice. I am really glad I posted this, because I think we can all at least get some comfort from knowing that we have shared and common experiences, feelings and emotions with each other.

My 'slump' days never last more than a day or so, because I am a positive person by nature. I choose to be. I just think if you are feeling 'slumpish' it's healthy and good to share it and it makes it a lot easier to walk away from once you have outed how you feel. I don't tend to dwell.

The ONE GREAT thing we do all have in common is that we have found a love that is worth fighting for -- we are the fortunate ones.

Here is a good quote that I posted on my facebook status today: A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty. Winston Churchill.

Although, I can and do relate to that quote I think we should feel free to say how things feel to us even if there is a silver lining. I am so glad people are sharing -- another great silver lining - people coming together and helping each other by having a good old moan and then finding perspective.

Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-03 15:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.

I think you'll have a great experience.

It is so easy to get involved here. Especially if you are motivated and have time to give. I volunteered full time as a educational counselor in an alternative school for teenagers. I have a psychology degree and they were happy to have me get involved. It is different to the UK in a lot of ways and 'getting involved' is really really encouraged. In fact I got a booklet about it when I got my greencard. Being part of your community and all that :) It's easy to do here.

Sometimes it's hard and you do sacrifice...but more that that you also gain an amazing opportunity. So does your fiance. Waiting for the K1 is tough though and I hope it goes quickly for you.

What State are you moving to?

Helen :)


I just checked out Burlington Vermont. Beautiful! St.Louis has it's charms :-)
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-03 09:07:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.

I think you'll have a great experience.

It is so easy to get involved here. Especially if you are motivated and have time to give. I volunteered full time as a educational counselor in an alternative school for teenagers. I have a psychology degree and they were happy to have me get involved. It is different to the UK in a lot of ways and 'getting involved' is really really encouraged. In fact I got a booklet about it when I got my greencard. Being part of your community and all that :) It's easy to do here.

Sometimes it's hard and you do sacrifice...but more that that you also gain an amazing opportunity. So does your fiance. Waiting for the K1 is tough though and I hope it goes quickly for you.

What State are you moving to?

Helen :)


That is so cool to hear, and that you have a psychology degree. My fiance has a lot of contacts and I don't doubt that I will be able to secure some relevant voluntary work with or without those links. I am moving to St.Louis MO cowboy land - yehaaaaw! I jest. :lol: I have noticed that community is a much bigger part of people's lives where he lives - I like that too! Larry is a high-school teacher in a private school, where he has worked for 20 years. His friends have all ready made me feel so welcome and popular - ha, ha ha. So, you do the college counseling?

I generally see all the positives if this situation, but just some days I get in a slump. You know how that can feel.

How long have you been settled?
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-03 09:04:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.

I think most people can relate to what you are feeling here! :)

You basically have to put your life on hold for a year. But that doesn't have to be a bad thing. You are doing a K1 which means even once you get here you will be in limbo. While you file for AOS you cannot attend school or work. (you can apply for work authorization but that takes time too) It's hard!

It's time to use this opportunity to your advantage and get creative! I used my K1 waiting time to see as much family as possible, even those I had never met. I visited places and said goodbye for now to Scotland. I moved back in with my folks while my husband set things up over here and I worked, used the time to enjoy my folks and did lots of errands and paperwork when it was required. I travelled to London for my medical and interview. Bought my wedding dress etc. It's a transitional period.

Then you come here, get married and file a bunch of paperwork.

I decided to use the time to make connections and see if I could make a change in my career. I volunteered full time until got my greencard and l just got a job because of that experience.(it really really helps to be able to list American references on your CV!) You can audit classes until you have your greencard. (attend, do the assignments but you can't get a grade. You have to get permission but I found schools very willing to let me do this). That will help you get recognised at a good school and make connections there. It will also help you prepare for studying again and you'll meet people.

So...get creative and use your 'limbo' time to have fun! You have to build a life here in the US and it'll be a lot of fun!

Helen :)


Wow!

It's so wonderful to hear from someone whose made it to the other side (as it were). I agree with EVERYTHING you have said. And, for the most part I have been treating this transition as a time to enjoy the parts of my life here that will change once I am out there. You just gave me some invaluable advice about volunteering and schools. I was hoping I could volunteer while I was waiting for everything to go through. Yay! I have accepted that it may be up to three months before all the paper work goes through state side and I can work etc.

You have a great attitude, Helen one that I share.

Thanks for sharing and congratulations on making it.
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-03 08:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.

Everyone puts something n hold to do this, it is hard on all parties, the waiting, discussing, discussion how to do it and what to do when it gets slow. Do work and school both if you have time.



True dat!

I just read articles and keep myself up-to-date and informed. :yes:
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-03 08:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.

I share mine as well. I had just been accepted to a masters program before I met my now husband. The plan was that I would apply for him and start my courses and I thought he would be here my first semester. And we both want a baby. I was 34 when we began this process. I would have finished school and we would be having our baby by now. But..... Life has played a cruel joke on us. The first visa was denied at consulate and I was too stressed to focus on school. So I have no masters degree yet, no baby, my husband is still in morocco and im 36 now so I feel like I just watch my opportunity to ever start a familydwindle away slowly with each padding month.
There was a time also when I used to go on vacations with my family and friends. But I havent done that now in almost three years. I use all my extra money and vacation time now to see my husband. So I really miss spending holidays with my family out of state. I never hardly see my mom and dad anymore.
This is hard for a lot more reasons than just the separation. Without my husband, my whole life is on hold. It is literally like being ripped in half.
I hope it goes quickly for you.


That's a tough story. I really hope the universe eases up on you and you get to be together full-time very soon. I guess, when things are that stressful you just have to be thankful that you have found someone you love so much and who loves you back.

I really hope you have some good news real soon.

I hope it helped sharing. One day you will be a great mum I am sure.

Sending out good thoughts for you.
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-03 08:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.

I miss being able to make plans. I'm a planner. With so much wrapped up in the mysterious ways of USCIS/DOS/etc, waiting for my fiance, I have basically no plans for the next year. Gotta wait and see what happens. Not having a plan is very difficult for me.

This is a great topic - thanks for bringing it up. I'm the USC, but I can relate to what you are saying.


As soon as I read this I smiled, because I am a great planner like yourself too! I have had to make do with making small plans, micro plans...it is tough when you are a planner. I have had my career/education plans clear in my mind for so long, and taking a break has been tough.

It's soooo good to be able to relate to these stories.


THANK YOU!
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-03 08:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.

I can relate to you completely and some days that feeling can feel like it will overwhelm you.

I put my studies on hold also, I moved back to my mums with my son to get a job and save the money needed for this process. We moved away from friends, my son changed schools, I hate my job, everything is taking much longer than we thought it would. Its not an easy journey to take, even though we all know it will be more than worth it.

Hang in there


Thank you!

I made very similar changes....gave up my apartment and am living in shared accommodation. My son is 16 living with my mother. I can appreciate how you feel too. Thank you for sharing. Sending you a virtual hug. And, yes it will be worth it in the long run, but I don't think people who have not experienced this can truly appreciate how it can feel at times.
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-03 08:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.
Today is just one of those tough days.
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-03 07:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.
I hope this post doesn't just drop off the face of the forum. I really would like to hear other people's experiences. :)
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-03 07:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsLimbo Land.
Firstly, I will apologise if I have posted this in the wrong place? I don't think it's in the wrong place, but it's not about Visa process queries, or waiting times, or RFE's or any of the procedures surrounding emigrating via the K1 visa.

I would like to know what aspects of people's lives are in limbo, apart from waiting to be united with their loved ones?

Here's mine:

Today I was checking out Facebook and I saw that one of the friends I had made from being on an undergraduate psychology course here in the U.K, was updating their work/career/education information. She has been accepted into Teachers College Columbia University in New York. I was really happy for her and congratulated her, but I also experienced this sense of longing for more than my fiance. I miss studying and working towards actualizing my career goals. SO MUCH!!!

I decided that once we began our petition that it would be best for me to stop my studies here and focus on getting employment. I received the transcript of the credits I have all ready accrued and sent it over to my fiance. I plan on attending a good school that's not to far from where I will live with my faince.

Today, just felt hard, because although my life with my fiance means everything to me, I have had to make sacrifices for us to have a future together, albeit in the short-term, but nonetheless sacrifices. Don't get me wrong I don't regret those choices, but I really miss living the life that sees me progressing with my other life dreams.

This is just a temporary feeling, but it really grabbed a hold of me. I miss studying, I miss doing all the things that are associated to my long-term career plans, the things that stir-up that fire in my belly, and instead I have a blah 9-5 job. Most days I am grateful that I am fortunate enough to have a blah 9-5 job, one that will help to pay for bills and pay for visa stuff. I just miss that part of my life today. I do my best not to see this interim period as limbo, but sometimes I am reminded that there is a lot of my life that is on hold.

I think it's good to acknowledge these feelings, express them, feel them and then move on....
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-03 07:38:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsMy beautiful fiancee is finally home.
What a lovely story.......so happy to hear such a positive outcome. I love that you and your family were waiting at the airport with flowers and balloons.

Congratulations and best wishes for your new life together. :star:
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-06 08:24:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAny June fillers
We are June filer's, but we are with California Service Centre. Still waiting....:)
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-02 14:57:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsNO RFE's!!!!

I woke up at about 4 am this morning to an email from USCIS saying our I-129F was APPROVED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It's on its way to the NVC!!!!!! WHOOHOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!


Congratulations and much luck with the rest of your journey!!! :thumbs::dance:
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-08 08:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsVisa Approved
Congratulations!!!! :star:
Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-09-21 18:41:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsApproved NOA2!!!!! Yehaaaaw.

congrats! we're now sandwiched in between you and another NOA2 approval, so hoping ours will come soon!!



I have updated my time-line http://www.visajourn...e.php?id=113224
Seems like CSC are taking their time. I hope this news will mean good news for you soon. I know exactly how it feels to be waiting, in fact, last week someone from Vermont who received their NOA1 after ours got their NOA2, but I did not focus on that as they were at a different center. I think CSC are starting to move things along now.

Sending you good vibes out to the universe and lots of luck. :star:

Edited by Vicky and Larry, 23 October 2011 - 02:43 PM.

Vicky and LarryFemaleUnited Kingdom2011-10-23 14:41:00