ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNeed to leave the US while waiting approval?

Hi

I am just beginning this journey. The more I read, the more confused I get. I'm sure I will be able to follow the steps once I better understand the path I should take.

Situation:I was born raised and lived in the US for almost 50 years. I want to marry a Canadian citizen.

I hope I am wrong, but in my researching today it appears that my wife to be will have to remain outside of the United States for a period of time, while the forms get processed.

Our plan was to get married in the US and fill out forms (whatever they turn out to be) but have her here living with me the entire time. Is this not possible? Does she need to stay in Canada for a period of time?

We have no problem going the fiance route if determined to be better or easier.

Also
She has told me based on her research that we can get married in US, and then I will be her sponsor, and thus she can remain in the US the entire time, but will not be eligible for employment for 5 years. I did not see anything relating to the 5 year law.


I have read about the K-1, K-3 and the IR-1/CR-1, but still sit here overwhelmed.

Any advice, clarification, suggestions are welcome

Thanks
Mark




Hi welcome to Visa Journey and you will be VERY glad you are here! I still find it a bit confusing but everyone on here is helpful and the guides help too.
I married a US citizen. We both thought .. US and Canada are friendly it will be easy, well not as easy as we thought. Its a process but if you get all the paperwork you need not too bad. You need to apply to go to the US, we got married first, in Canada, so the I-130 was the way to proceed. We travel back and forth to see one another. This
proved to be difficult ...( I keep my papers showing ties to Canada when I travel ) and have no difficulties at the border crossings. Hopefully this process will be done in another couple of months and we will be together.
I think it might be worth your while for you to get papers for Canadian Immigration at the same time as he has to be outside Canada as well. (just a thought)
Opt in for electronic processing it seems to speed up the process.

All the best in your future together,

Jewel

Edited by Jadenjewel, 18 March 2010 - 10:14 PM.

JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-03-18 22:13:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHELP electronic processing confusion

You know that I joke but that I do feel for you going through this #######. I think the only advantage right now is the ability to at least resend documents really quickly in the event of them being misplaced or something. I don't know what's going there. I thought they were misplacing my documnents but they weren't. The emails were throwing me. You got some sort of check list though and those are usually the RFEs as I understand them.

I hope they straighten this out for you asap.

I guess Chicago's moving ahead of the Canucks gives you acid reflux huh? :devil:


HI,

Thanks, humor helps through this process or we wouldn't handle it. ;)

Well it goes like this: after talking to management,

1. The initial acknowledgment and acceptance of OPTING IN was not noticed.:rolleyes: :oops:So hence the RFE's asking for original documents. Being able to give the dates of receipt for all emails helped them sort this out and realize their error.:bonk:

2. All the emails were in error as they do have all documents and supplemental OPTIN acknowledgments and acceptance were sent to us yesterday. On Monday we should call to get the correct status of our case and HOPEFULLY the case will be complete.

3. He said they are BACK LOGGED and are still working out problems.:clock:

So for everyone going through EP my advice is if something doesn't seem right CALL THEM REPEATEDLY. They do keep a log of phone calls and your conversations, which makes it easier to sort the problem this way. They seem to pay more attention if you give the dates of emails and the content. A response for OPTIN doesn't take long, 2-5 days usually. Case complete after receiving your documents usually 10 days maximum with no RFE's.

:guides:Wait till you have OPT-IN approval before sending documents. If you send them prematurely they think you are filing with a paper trail and THAT WILL SLOW THINGS DOWN. Yes they'll catch up but it will create confusion. The reason we have had a problem is due to good old human error and the back log. Hopefully things will speed up.:)

As far as the Canuck's go.... had trouble watching the rest of the game I felt nauseous<_<.

Keep smiling everybody.... there is an end in sight!
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-05-08 15:33:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHELP electronic processing confusion

Sorry, was reading yer timeline in yer signature area - wasn't trying to nitpick :(

The IV bill showed up same time as the AOS bill, in the portal? I've heard of that happening, IF there was a lawyer involved. Maybe, if you have an attorney, you might want to check in with that person, inquire if anything was sent from the atty's office to NVC (and that's a stretch, me even saying that - wild @ss supposition, based on nothing).


No worries didn't think you were nit picking:no:. No lawyer, I think we have gotten the more than buMPy ride. Hopefully enough for everyone. Will bring all up to date hopefully tomorrow with some good news!!!:blush:

pleasssssse(F)
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-05-07 01:07:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHELP electronic processing confusion

grrrr....

I dunno, there's been 2 cases for China, recently, that had blazing speed. The ONLY THING I SEE DIFFERENT, for yer casefile, is that you opted in AFTER you paid all fees.

The other casefiles (that I know about) - followed my steps on the wiki (and most of those steps came from Wyatt's Torch, a Canadien) . OPT IN was first, then pay the AOS fee bill, etc. etc., ad.naseum.

I'm not saying right or wrong here, just noting the difference on YOUR casefile timeline and timeticks.


Nope we OPTED IN, before paying the fees. They said they lost that back in March. So will keep all posted on this... thanks Darnell. I just figured that was a March glitch.I checked everything on Wyatt's Torch as well so like they said in talking to them today they are back logged.
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-05-07 00:52:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHELP electronic processing confusion

Bar none, this is far and away the best rant I've seen... :rofl:


YOU SHOULD SEE the one going on here at home complete with ...This whole day was a loss trying to understand what they are doing![attachment=12788:tequila-by-imnohero-flickr1.jpg]:help:
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-05-07 00:44:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHELP electronic processing confusion

I'm thinking NVC is still confused on yer case, for that OPT IN and subsequent email submittals. Could be because of the lag, though. Lag Sucks!


Yes we are in EP according to one supervisor and no we are not according to another.

Dear
We have reviewed the documents which you submitted in support of an application for an immigrant
visa. Please review the information listed under each applicant's name and provide any documents
which are indicated as missing or need additional information. You must submit the required
information. Failure to provide the requested information will delay your immigrant visa interview.
Please read the enclosed information to determine where to send all required copies of missing
documents. If you have any questions regarding this letter, please call the National Visa Center at (603)
334-0700 between the hours of 7:30am and midnight ET.
Please include a copy of this letter with your correspondence and write your case number clearly (exactly
as it appears below) on the upper right-hand corner of all documents.
If a period of one year passes without contacting the NVC (by e-mail, telephone, or mail), all
submitted fees and documents will expire. Upon expiration, the fees and documents would need to
be resubmitted in order to continue the immigration process.
Case Number: MTL
Beneficiary's Name:
Preference Category: CR1 - CONDITIONAL SPOUSE OF U.S. CITIZEN
Priority Date:
MISSING DOCUMENT LIST FOR:
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
______CORRESPONDENCE INSTRUCTIONS:_________________________________
When responding to the National Visa Center, please include the bar code sheet that came with this
letter. Failure to include the bar code sheet may cause a delay in the processing of your case. The bar
code sheet should be placed on top of all documents being submitted for this case and mailed to the
address provided.
______BIRTH CERTIFICATE:___________________________________________
The document you submitted is not an original or certified copy of an original issued by the
appropriate government authority. The document must be an original, or a certified copy of
the original, bearing the original seal or stamp from the issuing authority.
______MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE:________________________________________
The document you submitted is not an original or certified copy of an original issued by the appropriate
government authority. The document must be an original, or a certified copy of the original, bearing the
original seal or stamp from the issuing authority.
______MARRIAGE TERMINATION:________________________________________
The document you submitted is not an original or certified copy of an original issued by the appropriate
government authority. The document must be an original, or a certified copy of the original, bearing the
original seal or stamp from the issuing authority.
______FINANCIAL EVIDENCE:__________________________________________
The NVC has received the requested Immigrant Visa Application (DS-230). However, we are still
waiting for the Affidavit of Support form. Please submit the Affidavit of Support form according to the
instructions on the Department of State website at the following address:
www.ImmigrantVisas.state.gov.
From there, you can fill out an Affidavit of Support form online, then print the completed form and mail
it to NVC.
When responding to the National Visa Center, please include the bar code sheet that came with this
letter. Failure to include the bar code sheet may cause a delay in the processing of your case. The bar
code sheet should be placed on top of all documents being submitted for this case and mailed to the
address provided.
______PHOTOGRAPH:__________________________________________________

Please provide two identical front-view color photographs with a white background as required for each
visa applicant.

After talking to the one supervisor and explaining this email of which they have all these documents. She said call us in a week:angry:!

The OPT IN we have is the correct one that says they are processing this way!

So my husband called and the supervisor he spoke to said "call back tomorrow" he'd put in an inquiry.

So we WAIT AND WAIT! :wacko::bonk::crying::protest::protest::ranting::ranting:
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-05-07 00:34:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHELP electronic processing confusion
Things are really out of sync at NVC!

I received 7 emails from them and they are all conflicting.

Talking to the operator and supervisors...2 of them they all have different stories.:angry::angry::angry::angry::angry:

So stayed tuned for updates on this: all of you are in EP at NVC. Or who are thinking of it.

Also of note.... Anyone who gets a long form Birth Certificate from B.C. they don't think its real! They have issued a new long form birth Certificate that is small and it looks like our "funny" money.

:ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting::ranting:
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-05-07 00:09:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHELP electronic processing confusion
I'm adding this so all who go through Electronic Processing don't pull their hair out too.

I want to bring you up to date on Electronic Processing.

They are having some major issues there. We received another email today saying they were missing documents for our visa processing. His AOS and "CERTIFIED COPIES" of my documents for electronic processing.

After inhaling deeply we talked and made specific questions for them AGAIN.

!. Do you have us as optin for electronic processing.

Answer... doesn't show but by your email it is in the system.

2. Would you please get a supervisor.

Supervisor:
By your emails you are in the system, we are having problems here with a backlog.

Resend everything with the coversheet I will send you.
No nothing needs to be certified for electronic processing they are in error.
Yes everything you sent is correct.

So maybe they have new hires who aren't familiar with this new process and this is the reason for these automated emails that will send the visa applicant and petitioner crazy.

It is not complicated although with their inept dealing with this it would seem so.

Hopefully they will process our case now that a supervisor is on it.

Just wanted to let you know in case any one else is dealing with this.

Look for replies from NVC electronic, not NVC inquiry. The replies from NVC electronic show that you are in the system.

PLUS.... It is taking two weeks for the Optin -IN be acknowledged. THEY ARE SLOW RIGHT NOW

:angry::wacko::bonk::reading::ranting::ranting::ranting:

[attachment=12786:gforce.jpg]
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-05-06 17:48:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHELP electronic processing confusion
Oh thank you kind sir:thumbs: They now have more copies of our file than needed. At least they can't say they don't have it.

Maybe this info should be added to Darnell's post on E processing.

thank you all!
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-05-05 20:38:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHELP electronic processing confusion
:crying: Thanks,

I'm going to ask him to call in again and do what you expressed Darnell. We have our MTL number, we have paid the bills and they have our completed forms.

This is why these emails are so confusing.

If I send anything else who knows what they'll do with it. I'll keep you posted as i sure don't want anyone else going through this!

Ours has been the SLOWEST JOURNEY it seems. This goes back to Sept filing at USCIS California.

Thanks for everyone's help,

Jewel
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-05-05 15:17:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHELP electronic processing confusion

remember - opting in and paying online are parallel processes.

as to 'slowing things down' - ye gods - March and April sucked, a lot, as was some slowdown at NVC, things seemingly lost, ppl re-submitting OPT INs, I-864s, DS-230s because of this slowdown.

I look at it this way -

YOU GOT SOMETHING BACK via email once you sent off yer OPT IN email . This is sorta rare.

At this point, I'd suggest to keep paying online at the online payment portal. IF YOU DID NOT GET the AOS FEE BILL via email - call NVC, get a Human™, and ask for AOS FEE BILL TO BE SENT VIA EMAIL today - at least you can 'keep on track' with the payment portal.

Ultimately - when/if the OPT IN is accepted, the IV fee bill bill show up 'to be paid'.

Good Luck !

Both the AOS bill and the other were paid back in MARCH and show that online.

This is why I'm thoroughly baffled now. Maybe it doesn't take much ... due to being stressed by this.
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-05-05 14:41:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHELP electronic processing confusion
The woman who answered our call said she didn't see us in the system. For my husbands this is the email he received this morning...


RE: AOS for I-864EZ
From: <span id="PresenceContainer"> Posted Image 1 attachment
image001.jpg (0.3 KB) Dear Sir/Madam:



Thank you for your interest in processing your case electronically with the National Visa Center (NVC).



Your case has been updated with the email address you have provided to us.



We would like you to confirm how you prefer us to process your case. All future correspondence regarding this case must be done electronically if you chose to do so.



All documents and forms that we request and require from you should be scanned copies of the originals. The applicant must present all original forms and documents to the Consular officer at the visa interview. Failure to present the required originals at the visa interview will result in a denial or delay in obtaining a visa for the sponsored applicant.



A new Affidavit of Support/DS-230 form should be completed, scanned and emailed to us along with all supporting documentation. All future correspondence regarding this case must be done electronically. We regret to inform you that in order to protect your personal information, we cannot return the submitted forms and documents to you.



If you choose to continue with the traditional paper process, all correspondence regarding this case will be done through the postal service. All future documents will need to be sent to us through the postal system.



Please let us know what your intention is for processing.





Regards,

NVC Document Review Team
National Visa Center
Serco Inc., Support Contractor
NVCElectronic@state.gov


RE: Applicant's DS-230 for ? From: <span id="PresenceContainer"> Posted Image 1 attachment
image001.jpg (0.3 KB) Dear Sir/Madam:



Thank you for your interest in processing your case electronically with the National Visa Center (NVC).



Your case has been updated with the email address you have provided to us.



We would like you to confirm how you prefer us to process your case. All future correspondence regarding this case must be done electronically if you chose to do so.



All documents and forms that we request and require from you should be scanned copies of the originals. The applicant must present all original forms and documents to the Consular officer at the visa interview. Failure to present the required originals at the visa interview will result in a denial or delay in obtaining a visa for the sponsored applicant.



A new Affidavit of Support/DS-230 form should be completed, scanned and emailed to us along with all supporting documentation. All future correspondence regarding this case must be done electronically. We regret to inform you that in order to protect your personal information, we cannot return the submitted forms and documents to you.



If you choose to continue with the traditional paper process, all correspondence regarding this case will be done through the postal service. All future documents will need to be sent to us through the postal system.



Please let us know what your intention is for processing.





Regards,

NVC Document Review Team
National Visa Center
Serco Inc., Support Contractor
NVCElectronic@state.gov





Both are asking for the DS230,


If I send it again will it delay the whole thing???

thanks all this is making me crazy!:bonk:


















Regards,

NVC Document Review Team
National Visa Center
Serco Inc., Support Contractor
NVCElectronic@state.gov
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-05-05 14:36:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHELP electronic processing confusion

I think you had better send your opt-in email again; this is what my EP approval looked like when I finally received it:

Dear Sir/Madam:

Thank you for your interest in processing your case electronically with the National Visa Center (NVC).

Your case has been updated with the email address you have provided to us.

All further communication with NVC will now be done through this email address NVCElectronic@state.gov.

All documents and forms that we request and require from you should be scanned copies of the originals. The applicant must present all original forms and documents to the Consular officer at the visa interview. Failure to present the required originals at the visa interview will result in a denial or delay in obtaining a visa for the sponsored applicant.

Any questions regarding your petition should now be directed to NVCElectronic@state.gov.

The Affidavit of Support instructions were downloaded on 09 March 2010. Once you have gathered all of the information and completed the necessary form, please scan the documents and email them to us.

The Instruction Packet was downloaded on 09 March 2010. Once you have gathered all of the information and completed the necessary form, please scan the documents and email them to us.



Regards,

NVC Document Review Team National Visa Center Serco Inc., Support Contractor NVCElectronic@state.gov



With the email you got, it looks like they are not clear on if you want electronic or paper processing, which makes no sense Posted Image. Good luck!

Another thought...did you follow Darnell's guide on how to set up the Opt In email? Maybe something was missing from it that they wanted?

Hi,

Yes followed that, thanks. I'm not sure if I send them in again if this will delay the process longer? I will confirm for them continue this process but yikes this was supposed to be simpler.

thanks for your help:help:
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-05-05 14:15:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHELP electronic processing confusion
OH so confused.... Help all you knowledgeable VJ'ers out there. Any suggestions???

After opting in to NVC electronic processing we received this:
April 28, 2010 6:34:44 AM
Dear Sir/Madam:



Thank you for your interest in processing your case electronically with the National Visa Center (NVC).



Your case has been updated with the email address you have provided to us.



We would like you to confirm how you prefer us to process your case. All future correspondence regarding this case must be done electronically if you chose to do so.



All documents and forms that we request and require from you should be scanned copies of the originals. The applicant must present all original forms and documents to the Consular officer at the visa interview. Failure to present the required originals at the visa interview will result in a denial or delay in obtaining a visa for the sponsored applicant.



A new Affidavit of Support/DS-230 form should be completed, scanned and emailed to us along with all supporting documentation. All future correspondence regarding this case must be done electronically. We regret to inform you that in order to protect your personal information, we cannot return the submitted forms and documents to you.



If you choose to continue with the traditional paper process, all correspondence regarding this case will be done through the postal service. All future documents will need to be sent to us through the postal system.



Please let us know what your intention is for processing.





Regards,

NVC Document Review Team
National Visa Center
Serco Inc., Support Contractor
NVCElectronic@state.gov

We then sent the documents ... both the I 864 and the DS230 plus supporting documents.

To which we got this

April 28, 2010 9:33:02 AM

This is an automated response. Please do not respond to this email.

The NVC has received your e-mail. We are currently processing in the
order of receipt. Please allow 10 business days for a response.
Please be advised that sending duplicate emails for opt in and mailing
documents via delivery service may have an adverse affect on the amount
of time it takes for us to process your case.

This morning we received this,

May 5, 2010 4:46:00 AM
Dear Sir/Madam:



Thank you for your interest in processing your case electronically with the National Visa Center (NVC).



Your case has been updated with the email address you have provided to us.



We would like you to confirm how you prefer us to process your case. All future correspondence regarding this case must be done electronically if you chose to do so.



All documents and forms that we request and require from you should be scanned copies of the originals. The applicant must present all original forms and documents to the Consular officer at the visa interview. Failure to present the required originals at the visa interview will result in a denial or delay in obtaining a visa for the sponsored applicant.



A new Affidavit of Support/DS-230 form should be completed, scanned and emailed to us along with all supporting documentation. All future correspondence regarding this case must be done electronically. We regret to inform you that in order to protect your personal information, we cannot return the submitted forms and documents to you.



If you choose to continue with the traditional paper process, all correspondence regarding this case will be done through the postal service. All future documents will need to be sent to us through the postal system.



Please let us know what your intention is for processing.





Regards,

NVC Document Review Team
National Visa Center
Serco Inc., Support Contractor
NVCElectronic@state.gov

After calling them they said we weren't in the system.

Has anyone else gone through this and what the .... now.

The woman on the phone was of no help!
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-05-05 13:05:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCanadian CR-1s - August Interview Date??
I am whining here I know but it looks like September now for an interview in Montreal. Why are they so slow? Summer okay, but its been like this all year. The goof ups they've been doing as well arghhhhl Is it just me or does it seem like they are stalling?:angry:
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-06-30 20:53:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedurescase was expedited!
So happy for you! That was a long time and it will be so good for you all to be reunitedPosted Image
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-07-04 23:08:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresVisiting USA while CR-1 is pending
Recently having visited my hubby in California and traveling through YVR airport in Vancouver the POE agent asked these questions.

!. Why are you traveling alone?

...visiting my family

2. Who and where, and when was your last visit to the US?

...my husband who is a US citizen, and told him I was last down in March. ( My hubby and I travel back and forth every couple of months and so far I have not been refused entry thankfully.

3. How do you support yourself ?

...explanation...

4. Have you filed your paperwork ?

... yes still waiting for interview.

5. Why is it taking so long? ( at this point the POE agent seemed more interested in the process )

... Montreal seems backlogged ....

6. Why Montreal and not Vancouver ?

.... marriage visas are processed in Montreal ..

7. How long will you be gone?

... 3 weeks

Okay enjoy your visit...

I have found that bringing my paperwork neatly organized gives me more confidence in case I am ever asked for it. They document your traveling and I am sure they are able to pull everything up when they run your passport through. Just realize they don't always know the process we go through just as phoning NVC gets us different answers when we call. Some POE have been more casual and some more formal.

Hope this info may help some of you.

[attachment=13142:DSC00814.jpg]
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-07-06 13:50:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresUS Citizen marrying Canadian who can't move for a year
Hi,

We filed for our visa last Sept 1st. and still have no interview date. I thought we would be done by now naively. we had a couple of bumps on the road. 1. they lost his passport photo opening our I130 and then we had an RFE for the long form birth certificate, which they had it was just the "new" one.

So file ASAP as they seem to be taking longer lately, maybe it is due to the Haitian refugees or just bureaucracy. At least you will expect the year and if it gets approved sooner consider yourself fortunate. Posted Image

Welcome to Visa Journey!
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-07-31 02:59:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedures3 Hours Detained at Border!
I just want to add that you are so close to your interview that it's not worth it, and you told them 2 weeks. That is why they said to leave in 2 weeks. One reason they ask when were you last down, and your ties to Canada is to see if your being honest with them. They type in info for the next customs agent. For them to have kept you that long and yet still let you through, they are giving you the benefit of the doubt for not having enough proof with you. You don't want to jeopardize your visa.

I'm guessing you drove down or you would have missed your flight? Enjoy your time there, hopefully they'l have an interview date for you when you get home.

When I've travelled by air sometimes they have stamped my passport and other times they haven't. Going by car has some times been more of a hassle, if not with family or friends even just to shop.

Soon it will be over and you'll sail through.Posted Image
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-08-04 22:04:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI-864ez
Hi,

I searched but couldn't find one. Here is there toll free number they are available till 10pm eastern time I think. , 1-800-829-1040


Waiting along with youPosted Image
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-08-06 18:34:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresWhat are the risks to "waiting it out"?/not going through the immigration process

As far as I know he cannot file for a green card without leaving the country since he entered without inspection.

As to "waiting" well he risk arrest, deportation, jail time, he can't work, he can't get a job. So if the thought of your husband being incarcerated and deported doesn't bother you take the risk.


Her question was an honest one and many don't know the laws ..your answer was cryptic. If she didn't care she wouldn't ask! Posted Image
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-08-06 18:17:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresWaiting for Montreal Interview
Montreal is beyond slow! Wish I knew why? We were complete at NVC beginning of June and have heard nothing YET!

Any info why they are so slow would be welcome ;)
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-08-31 12:21:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPregnancy and vaccines, to give birth in Canada
I think if you have a note from your Dr. you can apply for an exemption. I forget the forms name but it is on the gov's website.

All the best!
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-08-10 03:45:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresWait Time for Montreal
Hopefully it won't be too much longer! :bonk::bonk:May people all seem to have interview dates so its the June peoples turn. :whistle:Hopefully we'll hear in the next couple of weeks for November or it won't be till January probably due to all the holidays coming up. :(
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-09-29 17:53:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresquestion !!!!!!!
Hi, reading this and hope you try the expedite! Loto and Darnell its always nice to read your posts, thanks for your help on here!
all the best Mary!
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-10-08 12:59:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresInterview date inquiries
There are people who finished in June at NVC who still don't have interview dates. It was almost 5 months to the day that I have my interview. Phoning them is frustrating anyway. If you watch the time line to interview date for Cr1 you'll be able to see when it is getting closer.

Patience is required!

:)
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-10-25 19:32:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCanadian citizen going thru I-130 can visit US?
I see no reason she can't visit. Its important for her to show her ties to Canada, job, lease , phone bills etc. IT IS ENTIRELY up to the border official but if she has a return flight and evidence of filing her papers she should get through. I traveled back and forth through the whole process many times and was held up a couple of times for questioning but was never denied entry. Many of us have kept our relationships strong doing this. Just always tell the truth to the questions they ask. :)



All the best!
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-10-24 20:42:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedureswaiting time from NOA2 until hearing from NVC
HI,

Phone them early in the morning or after 8 in the evening its the easiest time to get through.

Electronic processing is 'USUALLY ' faster.

http://travel.state..../visa_4409.html

http://www.visajourn...onic_Processing

Make sure they accept your OPTIN before you send your documents. the letter they send you back looks like the one below. You can have everything ready to go though. All documents should be originals and if you were divorced it need the Government seal . The birth certificate needs to be the long form showing your parents names and place of birth. Just a couple of things I learned along my journey.
Dear Sir/Madam:



Thank you for your interest in processing your case electronically with the National Visa Center (NVC).



Your case has been updated with the email address you have provided to us.



All further communication with NVC will now be done through this email address NVCElectronic@state.gov.



All documents and forms that we request and require from you should be scanned copies of the originals. The applicant must present all original forms and documents to the Consular officer at the visa interview. Failure to present the required originals at the visa interview will result in a denial or delay in obtaining a visa for the sponsored applicant.



Any questions regarding your petition should now be directed to NVCElectronic@state.gov.

All the best for a speedy trip through NVC:D








JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-10-26 02:48:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedures? for Canadian CR-1 filers- birth certificate
Hi,

A quick add on to this topic. I was issued an RFE for electronic processing of my long form birth certificate for EP. You can request and pay for it online http://www.serviceca...tificate.shtml.

When you scan the document make a note with it that it is an original and that it has the parents names and birth places on it. It looks like what our money does with holograms on it and a scan of it looks weird to be honest! :whistle:

:)
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-10-27 16:03:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresURGENT - Advice about Divorce Certificate for I-130
Hi,

I wouldn't risk it as you'll need it at some point anyway. I was given an RFE because my divorce certificate didn't have the courts RED SEAL even though it was the original document. I had to go to the court that issued it and pay for them to certify that it was the original document.

I think its better to be safe than " shoulda coulda woulda" :blink:. An RFE will hold you up more than getting the document.

Just a thought for whats its worth.:D
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-10-28 14:57:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresVisa Approved!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm glad your long wait is over ;) much happiness to you both!
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-10-29 14:01:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresThanks to everyone ...APPROVED!!!
No, I was truly expecting more questions etc! I'll take it though after some horror stories of other consulates!!:D
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-11-06 21:36:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresThanks to everyone ...APPROVED!!!
Thanks everyone for the kind words.:thumbs:Packing and POE next :dance:

Posting my review hope it helps the other Canadian's waiting for Montreal! :yes:
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-11-05 23:06:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresThanks to everyone ...APPROVED!!!
Thanks to all visa journey members! I learned so much from all of you, the time I've been on here has informed me and helped me survive this process to get my VISA APPROVAL.

I will have a review later today as well as some fun places in Montreal to eat and stay. Also a story of the panic on the trip out there.... all is well and again a big THANK YOU!!! (F):wow::dance:

It's still sinking in that its done, no more waiting for an interview :bonk:
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-11-05 12:18:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresVISA APPROVED :)
All the best to you both!(F)
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-11-10 19:51:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPermits for exotic birds
I'm wondering how long have others waited for permits for your pet parrots? I know this is an unusual question but hope someone else may have gone through this. After waiting forever for my visa I am now waiting for permits from Cites and the US fish and wildlife.

I'm hoping someone else has some info as to how much longer I may have to wait? One is an appendix1 parrot. Any info will be appreciated. :help:Attached File  3597906164_3b8d948f1b.jpg   89.93KB   1 downloads

Attached File  43153410_adee410194_z.jpg   97.49KB   1 downloads
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-11-15 19:35:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI want to be 100% sure..
I want to add a quick note to this. Yes we are allowed to stay for 6 months however if you come to close to this time frame you may have problems later. I know of someone who has a US spouse who has been refused entry twice now due to having spent 6 months in the US the previous year. They have proven ties to Canada but have been turned away twice now. I wouldn't like to see anyone else go through this. Keep a good record of the amount of time you are there, they know how long you have been away from your passport info.

All the best :yes:
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-11-23 16:23:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresInterview Scheduled!!!
That's great news! Looking forward to hearing APPROVAL :dance:
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-11-12 13:11:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNVC Gives us SECOND RFE!!
I agree with you that it is stalling :bonk::angry: I had an RFE for the birth certificate with EP as well. I sent the same thing back that I sent in the time before and it was accepted. So go figure. I would make sure that the document looks right after you scan it... Send it to your self and download it to make sure all of the certificate is present. I hope this is an error on their part.

This comment is hilarious :whistle:

I did mine by attorney so there is no mistake it was done right .....
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-11-22 18:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresForeign Fiance flipping out...
I think if anyone is truly honest about it, will agree that moving from your home country and starting a new life (even if it is with the most amazing person in the world) is a little or a lot scary.

The only thing familiar is the one you love. :luv:

It is so important to reassure, express how much you love them, tell them your hopes and dreams for your future together, and FIND out what their dreams are. Then help them plan these. If everything seems like an unknown, that is scary. Maybe you might check into English speaking courses. Work out a budget for schooling or find info for job searches. You can only decorate for just so long.

I'm Canadian and familiar with the US and will travel back and forth yet I WILL MISS the close proximity of my friends and the ability to just hang out in all my local places. I have done the research and have plans for my new life there and I'm looking forward to this opportunity and joyful life, with my best friend and partner.

Shes has anxiety and I think this is NORMAL. Let her vent and reassure, reassure, and reassure some more.

all the best to you both!:yes:
JadenjewelFemaleCanada2010-05-06 18:29:00