ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresYes, you can visit!
Here is my story. Hope it helps people who was detained before coz I was and I successfully enter USA for the past long weekend.

I was detained and sent back to Vancouver on Oct 19, 2009 for the fact that I had no ties to Canada back then. I was unemployed and just came back from Hong Kong in June 2009. I was visiting my boyfriend and trying to cross the border at Peace Arch to catch a flight from Bellingham, WA coz it's much much cheaper to fly from within. I had no returned ticket coz I wanted to get a bargain on cheap flight; I had no intention to stay there forever and illegally. Anyways, I was sent back to Canada and barred from entering US for 6 months.

In April 2010 I finally get a job and 6 months has passed so I decided to try to enter USA again. This time I fly from YVR. CBP at YVR are nicer and more friendly. My flight was at 8am. I arrived YVR at 6am just to allow extra time for being grilled. The first CBP was nice and we chatted a bit. He asked standard questions like the reason for visit (visiting bf), if I have a job (yes), what do you do (I'm a cpa) etc. Then he asked me if I was sent to the 2nd room before and I said no, not this one. Then he said that he had to send me to the 2nd home even though he liked me :(

So I was sent to the 2nd room and an female CBP interviewed me. Same questions: where am i going? why? do I have a job? Do you have prove? I showed her my employment contract, my bank statement, pay stubs etc. I did have my NOA 2 letter ready but she did not ask for it. In fact, after she decided letting me go, she asked me if my boyfriend and I planning to get married. Then I told her not until our K-1 visa got approved. She seemed surprised and said that she liked people doing it the right way and hated sending back people to home. She wised me a wonderful trip and walked me to the exit.


Overall it was a pleasant experience. Oh she asked me for prove of returned ticket too. So just bring evidence of ties and you will be fine. I was detained before and I was absolutedly a big red flag for them but I still got through. I'm already planning my next trip on Canada Day :)

Good luck all VJers
CQ & CSFemaleCanada2010-05-25 22:33:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresGeneral K1 Guides and Info
I tried to check my s tatus on the egov.immigration website but the link doesn't work. Trying to find out if i've been touched sad.gif

Cindy

QUOTE (Captain Ewok @ Jan 29 2006, 04:15 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
K-1 Visa Holder Starter Kit
compiled by LisaD

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR ENGAGEMENT! You must be so excited! Man, there is so much for you to digest...plan on reading a great deal! No, getting married to a foreign national is not like the movie 'Green Card'. You are gonna be shocked!

Do yourself a favor and read the GUIDES <---click here! as well as understanding what a K-1 Visa actually is.

Read the FAQs <----click here!

And if you have a specific question that you're unsure of...hit up the Forum Search <---click here!. Most times, your question has been asked and answered countless times over.

Please refer to these tools that our most gracious and benevolent admin CAPTAIN EWOK has provided. And many members have worked very hard to write all this info.........

And one more thing....BREATHE!!! Yes it seems like a lot of ####### and red tape to go through, but there are countless couples who have gone through this and who have lived to tell the tale.

oh, and no, you cannot file for a K-1 and get married while you're waiting. <---CLICK HERE!


Useful links along your K1 Visa Journey:
compiled by Sheriff Uling

[CLICK HERE] - Department of State (DOS) Nonimmigrant Visa Information (Overview of the K1 Process)
[CLICK HERE] - USCIS FAQ for Fiance(e) (2pg PDF File)
[CLICK HERE] - 5 Stages of the K1 Visa Process "Simplified and Theoretical" (according to Sheriff Uling)
[CLICK HERE] - VJ's K1 Visa Guide & Information (Detailed Steps for Filing)
[CLICK HERE] - VJ's K1 Visa Flowchart (General Overview)
[CLICK HERE] - VJ's K1 Visa Tips (Tips on Forms and Documents)
[CLICK HERE] - VJ's Acronym and Form Definition page (Great for New Members)
[CLICK HERE] - Manila Embassy K1 Visa Guide (Specific to the Philippines)

Make sure you also check out the Example Forms Section. This section has many example forms, for a general case, that you can use as reference.

Here is the official USCIS FAQ for Fiance(e) Visa's: http://www.uscis.gov.../article/A2.pdf. Once you file you will have several options available to track your case.

Helpful Notes for K1 Applicants (If you have a suggestion that you think should be added please PM me):

Note #1 (suggested by member: Mew):

QUOTE
Many VJs find it difficult to figure out how to check for touches and ask for helpsmilie.gif . So I thought I'd have this topic to make it easier for everyone.

What is a touch?
As JEDI's defined it (http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=20192#):
QUOTE
Any time your application is handled by someone at a Service Centre, the barcode is scanned, which results in an update to the "last date" for your case on the USCIS website. When the date changes, this mean that someone has physically handled or "touched" your case. There are many reasons your application may be "touched" - from simply being moved from one desk to another, to RFE's, to being approved.


There are 2 kinds of touches. There are the ones that show some kind of update, there are the ones that don't bring a new message. By logging into the account, take a look at the date that shows next to your case number. If it's changed, you've been touched.

By clicking on the case number, you get to check whether it was an update touch or not. The ones that don't show updates are connected with some kind of work done with regard to your case - it merely shows that they've taken a look at it somehow.

What? Case number? Account? Hang on, let me explain it. smile.gif

How do I get to check it out?

First thing is, get your receipt number (or case number). You can find it online on the back of the check you used to pay for the filing of the application when it's been cashed. If you can't do that, wait for the NOA1 in the mail. It'll be there.

There are 3 ways to check for updates.

1. By searching online: https://egov.immigra.../jsps/index.jsp - you'll just need the receipt number.

2. By logging into your account. To register on the USCIS site: https://egov.immigra...ectusertype.jsp

3. By e-mail (once you have registered and clicked on the "E-mail on" button.

Options 1 and 3 are good if you only wish to check for status update. Option number 2 shows the mysterious touches (somebody worked on your case but we can't be sure what has been done).

Option 2 in detail:

Log into your account: https://egov.immigra.../jsps/login.jsp

It'll show a table:

Receipt Number | E-mail | Last Updated | (mm/dd/yyyy) | Form # |Form Title

Take a look at the date in the "last updated" box. Then go to "Receipt Number" and check the message. Is it different from the last update you got?

Yes: smile.gif Great! You got an update that changes the status of your case.
No: sad.gif Aw. They have just worked on your case...

Please note that the date on the update notices don't change. For example, if you got a message saying your petition was approved on JUNE 20, 2006, that date will never change. The ones that might change are the ones you get to see at the chart when you log into the account.

Do I really need to check the mysterious touches?
Not at all. Only obsessive people like me, for example, will do it. I find it comforting to know that someone's been working on my case smile.gif

Also, you only get to check the status before your petition is fowarded to the NVC...

I hope I covered it all. good.gif

Note #2 (suggested by member: sukie175 and pax):

QUOTE
***This applies in general to everyone**** Regarding your Overseas Medical: Please note that you need to ask the Doctor at whichever Hospital you go to - To give you the Department of State's vaccination worksheet (or at least an official copy) - it is known as the DS-3025 (this is not the same as the USCIS form I-693 or I-693A Suppliment). You will need this for your Visa interview and for later on when you adjust status to a permanent resident in the US.

When you apply to adjust status in the States, assuming you as a K-1 holder apply within one year of the original medical, you need an I-693A. This is USCIS'S VACCINATION SUPPLEMENT. Here's where it gets tricky! Some people have submitted a DS-3025 with their AOS package and have NOT received RFE's. Some HAVE. If you want to be absolutely safe in terms of your medical documentation as a K-1 adjusting status, you should take your DS-3025 to a USCIS-certified civil surgeon and ask them to transfer the information from your DS-3025 to an I-693A. They should do this for a nominal charge. If they try to tell you you need a full medical examination, DO NOT LISTEN. You ONLY need the vaccination supplement. The following memo from the USCIS documents that this completed form will remain valid beyond one year when submitted with most Adjustment of Status applications.

http://www.uscis.gov...edExt011106.pdf

The civil surgeon should give you an I-693A documenting the fact that your vaccinations are complete (either they were completed when you had your medical or you had them completed stateside). You should submit this with your AOS package.

Note #3:

QUOTE
Make sure on all photo's you submit to the USCIS / Dept of State that you label on the back of the photo (felt tip marker suggested) the names, date and location of the photo and the people in it (namely you and your fiance).
Note #4:

QUOTE
Later on when you file for AOS you will need to know where your non immigrant visa # is. This image shows you where:


Note #5:

QUOTE
Frequently Asked Questions answered by the Department of State regarding a K-1 Visa:
http://usembassy-aus...ular/ivfaq.html

Note #6:

QUOTE
This thread discusses exceptions to the requirement for having met within the last 2 years:

http://www.visajourn...showtopic=33474


CmehatFemaleCanada2008-09-28 19:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresThe RFE Master List
QUOTE (KimandRuss @ Nov 20 2008, 02:52 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I think you need not stress about many of the more insignificant errors.

If you were going through a higher fraud post it might be more fuel for the fire at the Embassy stage of the process.


I really like Kim and Russ. They keep all of their answers real and seem so humble. Thanks for helping me including everyone on this site. [applauds] I hope everything is working out for u guys smile.gif


Cindy
CmehatFemaleCanada2008-11-20 23:18:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresThe RFE Master List
QUOTE (pedia @ Oct 25 2008, 02:58 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (ELW @ Oct 25 2008, 12:04 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
You included copies of your passport page with visa and arrival & departure dates right? You should be OK. If you are worried, search through all your paperwork at home (and ask him to do the same) and see if you can find other evidence, then copy it and keep ready just in case.


when i was in the US visiting him in the summer, i also bought a cell phone with a US number from T-Mobile. But I put my gf's address (who also lives in the US) on that cell phone bill. still good to include that cell phone bill?

also, does my us fiance need the long version of his brith cert? i think he only submitted a copy of the short form



you need to send the detailed version. our rfe was because of it. maybe you might be ok..lets hope! otherwise, get a long version ready just incase you'll need it.
CmehatFemaleCanada2008-11-02 21:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresThe RFE Master List
oh boy, I like I found this group with RFE's. On the Uscis site we got a letter sent out on Oct 15 08 on RFE. I can't even imagine or put together what it could be. *sigh* wait wait wait is all we can do but as long as we provide what they need. They will give us what we need. To be with our beloved!

Now my question earlier was: When we send in the evidence they need, do we send only what they are asking for or do we gather up the whole package again and resend the whole darn thing??! 129f

Cindy
CmehatFemaleCanada2008-10-17 23:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAre you fed up with USCIS yet?
QUOTE (rebeccajo @ Sep 19 2007, 11:55 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Don't just bellyache and make it about mycase, mycase, mycase.


Did you even read the letter? I don't think it's saying mycase mycase mycase. It's asking for information to be given in general.

QUOTE (rebeccajo @ Sep 19 2007, 11:55 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
If you all want to write letters, that's great. But before you do, I'd suggest you research immigration a bit more and discover some of the TRUE hardships out there caused by the process.

There will always be a worse case, something more tragic, more horrible. You don't have to ignore them, but you also don't have to start working on things from the top. I don't think there's anything wrong with attempting to fix smaller problems. If there is starvation on one continent or homeless people in one country due to a tsunami or what have you, it doesn't mean that I shouldn't try to do something for abused women in my community or whatever local problems are there.
rae_and_scottFemaleCanada2007-09-19 11:10:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAre you fed up with USCIS yet?
B)-->
QUOTE(Bill B @ Sep 19 2007, 11:46 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Ok, the title of the thread was "Are you fed up with USCIS yet?, Take Action NOW!!!!" It was obviously directed for people who are unhappy with the current service given by USCIS. I considered the people on this site as people who shared a common bond. It is inappropriate to attack someone on the board for trying to lead an effort to get their fiancee or wife with them as soon as possible, or at least help others behind them. The fact is that we are citizens living in a free country where many of our ancestors immigrated to America and now we are trying to follow the current legal processes to get our loved ones here. .... We are paying USCIS a fee for a service, if it isn't enough of a fee to get faster or priority service, then they should raise the fee or establish an avenue for those willing to pay for expedited service. It seems unfair to me to process a work VISA for someone entering our country faster than a loved one of a US citizen. Sure you can disagree and say something like, "we have critical shortages in nurses" or something along those lines...I still disagree with the premise. Has anyone seen the corruption behind those from poor countries coming to the US on these work VISAs? Phoney agent fees, false college degrees, etc. Anyway I digress, back to the topic, taking action versus sitting idly by. I don't think anybody expected those of you with your loved ones already with you to take action. And nobody surely ever thought you would criticize the effort. I think those writing the letters got the point; you either think it will get no where or you disagree for some other reason. Disagreement is one thing, let's not stoop to attacking each other though on these boards. Processing times at the Service Centers have been rising for some time now. Those that elect to attempt actions to improve the situation should be thanked by those who have a stake in the outcome. Those with no stake in the outcome should simply thank God they already endured the process and are now hopefully enjoying life with their loved ones.[/quote]
Very well said, Bill B.
  • 0
K1
------------------------------------
07.12.07 - I-129f petition mailed
07.13.07 - I-129f received by VSC
07.18.07 - NOA1 notice
07.20.07 - check cashed
07.22.07 - touch
11.29.07 - NOA2, waited 140 days
11.30.07 - touch
12.03.07 - NVC Received
12.05.07 - NVC Left
12.10.07 - Consulate Rec'd
12.13.07 - Packet 3 Rec'd
03.13.08 - Packet 3 sent back to Montreal
04.08.08 - eligible for interview
05.13.08 - Packet 4 Rec'd
06.02.08 - Interview!
06.09.08 - Visa in hand!
06.16.08 - move date, POE via Peace Bridge, Buffalo, NY
06.20.08 - civil wedding

AOS
------------------------------------
06.25.08 - AOS package sent
06.30.08 - received in Chicago
07.07.08 - NOA1 for 485 (AOS), 765 (EAD), & 131 (AP), rec'd in mail 07.14.08
07.09.08 - touch on all 3
07.10.08 - check cashed
07.28.08 - case transferred to CSC
08.02.08 - Biometrics
08.03.08 - touch on AOS
08.04.08 - touch on AOS & EAD
08.05.08 - touch on EAD
08.06.08, 08.07.08, 08.21.08, 08.22.08 - touch on AOS
09.03.08 - EAD approved!
09.04.08 - touch on EAD
09.05.08 - EAD card arrives in mail
09.06.08 - AP arrives in mail (no updates online or via email)
09.23.08 - touch on AOS
09.24.08 - welcome letter mailed
09.25.08 - touch on AOS
09.30.08 - AOS approved
10.01.08 - touch on AOS
10.04.08 - Green Card received

------------------------------------
02.21.09 - "real" wedding in Montreal
rae_and_scottFemaleCanada2007-09-19 10:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAre you fed up with USCIS yet?
QUOTE (Ionescu @ Sep 19 2007, 11:11 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
No one told you not to send letters, we just dont care if you do or not, dont post these things if you dont want other ppls responces. unless you expecting everyone to jump for joy and call you wonderful


You do seem to care whether we do or not. Otherwise why post your opinion that it's useless? What is the point?
rae_and_scottFemaleCanada2007-09-19 10:13:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAre you fed up with USCIS yet?
QUOTE (ZeeNusah @ Sep 18 2007, 09:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I, for one, feel that if something is not working for me I need to do something to fix it. Who cares if it works or not. At least we have done something instead of sitting and complaining. Others may disagree but that is their opinion.

We may not be the first bunch of people to think about this and we may have no influence whatsoever on USCIS processing times and we may not get anyone to listen to us but at least we are trying something, anything.

I understand that there are going to be skeptics and those who think it won't make a difference...we want to see if we can.

And if all else fails at least I can say "I tried".

One thing is guaranteed: If you do nothing, nothing will change.

For those of you who think writing a letter is pointless, that's cool. You don't need to write a letter.

Do I think that my sending off a handful of letters is actually going to get me my NOA2 more quickly? I'm a pessimist. I doubt it. But I'm still going to send them. Ultimately, it's a few sheets of paper and some stamps and about 15 minutes of my time spent printing the stuff and getting it ready. So, why not? There's no hurt in trying. And on the tiny percentage that it does actually help, well, great. I did something, instead of sitting here saying "that will never work you; are all wasting your time". More time has been spent in this discussion bitching about how it won't work. As U.S. Wendy said, let's get back to the topic on hand. Let's start posting our progress, those of us who care to.
rae_and_scottFemaleCanada2007-09-19 10:04:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCanadian awaiting packet 3
QUOTE (slamber2578 @ Dec 17 2007, 06:57 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
True. Im kind of glad im somewhat close to vancouver since its so far west, everyone is stuck going to MTL lol. Goodthing im close to vancouver too, Canada Post isn't known for its speedy system and it would only have to travel a short distance (same with MTL and ottawa smile.gif ) Goodluck to you and your fiance. We should have a race to see who gets visa in hand first hahaha. Its a shame we work on their(US. Consulate) time and not ours

Oh but I am afraid you would win that race... it's been taking Montreal up to 6 months to hand out an interview. sad.gif
Good luck to you both as well! We should definitely see how things progress and compare. smile.gif
rae_and_scottFemaleCanada2007-12-17 19:13:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCanadian awaiting packet 3
QUOTE (slamber2578 @ Dec 17 2007, 06:44 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Haha. its always good to have one person in the relationship that goes insane nuts over the paper work for everything. that way theres comfort in knowing it'll be done right. At least you got your fiance got his packet3!!! i feel more helpless than you because im STILL waiting for CSC to "bulk up" headbonk.gif before sending it to the NVC. I dont even remember how many days its been sad.gif

My lady wasnt too happy about me harassing her, but instead of saying goodnight, she chose to tell me to shut up(but in more words lol) hahah.. its all good though. i love her wub.gif

True, I am happy our case has been moving quickly since NOA2, but think of it this way: yours will be ready to go ASAP once you do receive it! And then you have Vancouver, which is loads faster than Montreal, so you'll probably beat us to an interview and the actual visa!
I guess everything kind of sort of balances out in the end.
rae_and_scottFemaleCanada2007-12-17 18:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCanadian awaiting packet 3
QUOTE (slamber2578 @ Dec 17 2007, 06:33 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I even made a word document listing all the paper work i need for the packet3, then what i need as evidence, what order to put paper work for the interview and what type of evidence i need to gather... and finally what to bring to the medical(which is scheduled after you receive packet4

That is totally the type of thing I would do... if we hadn't received our approval right in the midst of my busiest time at work for the year! dead.gif
rae_and_scottFemaleCanada2007-12-17 18:41:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCanadian awaiting packet 3
QUOTE (slamber2578 @ Dec 17 2007, 06:24 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Im technically still waiting for the CSC to send it to the NVC (NOA2 was on nov.28,2007) but since they like to ship their files in bulk, who knows how long i'll be waiting. I have searched through these forums like a troll and got a basic idea what was in the packet3 (im the foreigner of this application). There is a "sample" of a packet3 that was mailed to a london applicant, im assuming its pretty much the same information required. it can be found here:

http://www.visajourn...ls.php?album=13

It looks like ONE copy of the ds-156 is sent back, the ds-230 PART 1 and the checklist.


In our relationship, i am the OCD of the couple, im very ####### about applications and printouts so i think i've filled out AND trashed about 4 different copies of the ds-156, ds-156k, ds-157, and the ds-230 before getting a copy that i like haha. Im waiting on my fiance to get her i-134 form done and the other information she needs to send me and i harrass her every day about it, im sure she doesnt enjoy it.

laughing.gif
I think we might have a bit in common... And we got our NOA2 one day after you!
Thanks for that link! I also printed out those forms and started filling them out but then my lawyer said she'd do it, so she's doing my part and my SO is going to do his part, so I feel like I'm helplessly waiting now....
And yeah, I've been harrassing my SO as well... he is definitely not happy about it. Said goodnight to me last night after I brought it up. sad.gif
Me:
please take care of everything (in more words)
Him:
ok.
pause
so anyway
pause
i'm going to bed
lol cray5ol.gif
rae_and_scottFemaleCanada2007-12-17 18:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCanadian awaiting packet 3
QUOTE (slamber2578 @ Dec 17 2007, 06:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Wow.. im really jealous of you. my fiance(US. Citizen) originally filed at the vermont center but was forwarded to cali center.. we filed at the end of april and we're still waiting for the CSC to send the package to NVC. stupid shipping in bulk nonsense.. grrrrrrrrrrrrrr...

I have all my packet3 paper work already done. im ready to mail/fax back the packet the day i receive it lol

No need to be jealous! VSC saw a huge slowdown over the past few months. They were faster before I filed. I think the only reason yours took a bit longer than mine was the RFE. Well and CSC's slowness in sending to NVC, that too.
See, I WISH I had packet 3 all ready to go, as usually that's the kind of person I am, and right about now I am kicking myself in the ####### for not being uber prepared. I'm like, OH NO!! It's already been 4 days!!! cray5ol.gif
rae_and_scottFemaleCanada2007-12-17 18:17:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCanadian awaiting packet 3
QUOTE (slamber2578 @ Dec 17 2007, 06:10 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
No, not everything HAS to be done before you mail it back. you can mail it back before the police check comes(but if it doesnt come by the interview, you're in trouble lol).. surprisingly.. my police check only took 1 week exactly (im from edmonton, ab). i-134 forms are filled out by the US fiance and mailed to the canadian one to bring to the interview as proof of fiancial support. the 156k you bring to the interview.

Thank you!
So, does it clearly state in Packet 3 what exactly needs to be mailed back with it, and what can be done separately and brought to the interview? I assume it does, but like I said, my SO is the one handling this part, and I am the obsessive-compulsive-make-sure-the-paperwork-is-all-done type, so I hate not having control over this!
Is there somewhere I can read a list, or can anyone tell me, what specifically has to be done in order to send back Packet 3? Or should I just make my SO read me the whole thing over Skype? laughing.gif
Or did you already answer this, and it's just the Police cert., I-134 & 156k that aren't sent back with it?
Thank you again. smile.gif
rae_and_scottFemaleCanada2007-12-17 18:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCanadian awaiting packet 3
QUOTE (Len_and_Bren @ Dec 17 2007, 06:02 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (rae_and_scott @ Dec 17 2007, 04:57 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thanks for the taking a deep breathe tip... I needed that.
I'm currently waiting for my fiance to take care of Packet 3, and totally stressing b/c he is a procrastinator. wacko.gif
Well, my question is, are we already in line for the interview, since we've been sent Packet 3? I thought I remembered reading somewhere that they don't let you "wait in line" until you've returned Packet 3. But I really don't remember for sure. How does this part work?



You're on the waiting line when MTL receives your packet 3 with forms AND checklist.

Ah, darn it, that's what I thought.
So, everything has to be done before it's sent back, is that it? Police check and medical and the I-134 & 156k forms?
rae_and_scottFemaleCanada2007-12-17 18:03:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresCanadian awaiting packet 3
QUOTE (Udella&Wiz @ Dec 10 2007, 09:35 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
One thing I learned in this whole process (we're now married and about to file our Adjuestment of Status) is to take a deep breathe. Other then your own desire to get everything in as quickly as possible, you don't want to rush and make a mistake in gathering your necessary paperwork together. The consulate works on their own time (see the timelines) so no matter how quickly you get things in, it's all the same in the end. Best to be meticulous in order to avoid RFE (requests for additional info). Packet 3 seemed stressful because it was the first real paperwork I (as the fiancée) had to get done all myself. But I hdplenty of time to gather together all the docs while waiting for the interview and frankly I already had many...birth cert, passport etc....

Don't get to far ahead of yourself...but it's always good to be prepared.

Cheers

Thanks for the taking a deep breathe tip... I needed that.
I'm currently waiting for my fiance to take care of Packet 3, and totally stressing b/c he is a procrastinator. wacko.gif
Well, my question is, are we already in line for the interview, since we've been sent Packet 3? I thought I remembered reading somewhere that they don't let you "wait in line" until you've returned Packet 3. But I really don't remember for sure. How does this part work?
rae_and_scottFemaleCanada2007-12-17 17:57:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-134 form questions
Well it sounds like it doesn't really matter which you do for #11 as it doesn't pertain to Kers.

But it sounds to me like your lawyer is just wrong on Q10.

Plus they don't see the I-134 until interview day, so I would think any of this could be talked about with the interviewer, no?
rae_and_scottFemaleCanada2008-04-03 16:06:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-134 form questions
Hi Yomtl. smile.gif

Our lawyer filled ours out, so my answers are based on how she interpreted the form (which I would imagine she's filled out quite a number of times before).

1 - Q10: You fill in your fiance's name. You HAVE submitted a petition on her/his behalf, so this is not asking about prior relationships.

2 - Q11: Check do not intend. I was suprised to see that but I assume it's because you will be fully supporting your partner, not making specific contributions per se. I agree that this question is tricky and would be willing to bet a lot of couples answer it differently!

3 - Q7: I would put Sonographer as Type of Business and the Hopital's name in Name of Concern, then the hospital's address.
rae_and_scottFemaleCanada2008-04-03 15:50:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresShortest possible timeline for Canadian Fiance
We were also a straightforward case and ours took almost a full year. It just varies and there is really no way to predict how your own case will go.
rae_and_scottFemaleCanada2008-08-25 14:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresK1: Civil ceremony, then a later, bigger ceremony?
Well, my husband and I pursued the CR-1 route and only planned to have one wedding (Playa Del Carmen, Mexico) and only after we already have booked our flights, venue, photographer, officiant and hotel, we found out that we didn't meet Mexico's legal requirements to get legally married!

So off we went to Las Vegas for a quiet quickie civil wedding. It turned out great!--One thing that took me by surprised was how emotional I got when I recited my vows--I bawled my eyes out. That didn't happen a couple months later at the Mexico wedding because the first-time moment was lost.

As for how to refer to your spouse as husband/wife in public, we didn't worry about it since the titles were so new to us then. I didn't get comfortable calling him husband until a good year later.

Edited by Revenesque, 10 February 2010 - 07:37 PM.

RevenesqueFemaleCanada2010-02-10 19:36:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresConfused about 2007 taxes while having spouse under CR1
QUOTE (carterlovej @ Feb 6 2008, 11:34 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (thermophile @ Feb 5 2008, 09:44 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (EmilyandJason @ Feb 5 2008, 11:07 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Based on my research (IRS website and various publications) a non-resident alien would only HAVE to file if they earned US source income. You can choose to file though, I believe.

In my case, I live and work outside of the US so my husband cannot claim me as a dependant, I have no US source income, therefore I am not filing.


you don't have to file, but you and your husband could file "married filing jointly". he would include your foreign income on line 7, then exclude the first $80,000 using the 2555. you aren't really a dependent, you're married filing jointly. it doesn't matter if you work in the US or not, the fact that you are married means that you can file as such. In our case all of my husbands income was excluded using the 2555, so we were taxed as if both of us live on my income alone. you can't claim some of the tax credits such as EIC when you exclude foreign income, but that may not matter.


Yes, but it is my understanding that you can only use the 2555 for citizens or permanent residents - not the non-resident limbo that a lot of us are in right now.
Not to say you can't still file "married filing jointly" - I'm just not sure the 2555 is an option if you haven't been approved for your CR/IR-1 visa yet.

I'm still waiting to hear from my CPA on all of this! It's so confusing.


the 2555 is absolutely applicable if you are waiting for your visa or even if you are both in the other country and have no intention of immigrating to the US. your immigration status and your status with the IRS have basically no relation. As far as the IRS is concerned, you being married and declaring the non-citizen spouse "resident for tax purposes" is good enough. I've filed married filing jointly since we got married in 2003 even through my husband didn't get his visa till last fall.

I can't help with the ITIN issues, my husband already had a SSN from a previous J visa.

Of course if you already have an accountant, check what they say. But make sure that they know how to deal with foreign spouses, it's not that common of a situation.
thermophileNot TellingCanada2008-02-06 12:56:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresConfused about 2007 taxes while having spouse under CR1
QUOTE (EmilyandJason @ Feb 5 2008, 11:07 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Based on my research (IRS website and various publications) a non-resident alien would only HAVE to file if they earned US source income. You can choose to file though, I believe.

In my case, I live and work outside of the US so my husband cannot claim me as a dependant, I have no US source income, therefore I am not filing.


you don't have to file, but you and your husband could file "married filing jointly". he would include your foreign income on line 7, then exclude the first $80,000 using the 2555. you aren't really a dependent, you're married filing jointly. it doesn't matter if you work in the US or not, the fact that you are married means that you can file as such. In our case all of my husbands income was excluded using the 2555, so we were taxed as if both of us live on my income alone. you can't claim some of the tax credits such as EIC when you exclude foreign income, but that may not matter.
thermophileNot TellingCanada2008-02-05 22:44:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresConfused about 2007 taxes while having spouse under CR1
it is your choice whether the non-US spouse files US taxes. try running the numbers and see which works out better for your tax situation. For me it was better to include my husband's income then exclude it with the 2555. If you are used to filing out your own taxes you will be able to deal with the foreign income. if you've never been comfortable doing your taxes don't pick this year to start.
thermophileNot TellingCanada2008-02-05 19:50:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAnyone know if you can reschedule a CR-1 interview?
not sure about the embassy in Nicaragua, but the few people that have rescheduled in Canada went back to the end of the wait line. One woman had to wait another 6months to get another interview. If I were you, I'd go even if you don't have the paper and see what they say.
thermophileNot TellingCanada2008-03-17 19:37:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPremium Processing?
QUOTE (Ilya R. @ Mar 24 2008, 05:28 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Does anyone have any idea whats premium processing is? I found Vermont Phone number, for Premium processing? If anyone know what it is please share. thanks


that's only for those super-citizens: corporations. no premium processing for individual citizens. If you search for premium processing on the USCIS page it will give you a list of the visas that are allowed to use the premium processing service.
thermophileNot TellingCanada2008-03-24 16:32:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresInterview Problem. I'm so confused.
sorry to hear that it's going to take 2 more months. hopefully your's will be quicker
thermophileNot TellingCanada2008-01-26 12:01:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresInterview Problem. I'm so confused.
has your wife gotten any response from her congressman? If you haven't heard back from that office within a week or so, I'd suggest moving on to one of her senators.

you should be able to visit as long as you show ties to Canada-but since you've turned in you diss and aren't really employed anymore, the border may not believe that you don't intend to stay. Why they decided that those of us that are actually going through the process are more likely to try to sneak into the country, I'll never understand. If we were going to just lie our way across the border, wouldn't we do that before paying all the fees, filling out all the forms, and waiting for months/years?

anyway, good luck
thermophileNot TellingCanada2008-01-23 14:54:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresInterview Problem. I'm so confused.
QUOTE (trailmix @ Jan 18 2008, 07:40 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Which just reminded me of another interview review I read in the Canada forum once, I believe the beneficiary was a biologist and his wife did something similar.

They were both at the interview and I remember her commenting on how the CO quizzed them about their jobs and asked some strange questions (like who needs a (insert type of biologist here) biologist in Iowa - or wherever they were going to live in the U.S.).

It just seemed strange to me (and to them) because normally they just say something like - so what are you going to do for work? They actually had him explain in some detail what he does, which wouldn't be really meaningful to a person who isn't a biologist!

Anyway, they did get the visa that day - can't remember who the member was though.



that was me. FEW and I have been pm'ing it seems like we had the same guy at Montreal. he never asked for a CV though, just why someone would want to hire an archaeologist in NM. then he did ask me (the USC) about my research in enough detail that I had a little flash back to my comprehensive exams. He had no idea if what I was saying was correct, it just seemed that he was checking to see if I really was a microbiologists?? I'm the USC, why my job had anything to do with the interview is beyond me.

ha, I didn't read the rest of the replies to see that this info is already in the thread.

Edited by thermophile, 20 January 2008 - 02:20 PM.

thermophileNot TellingCanada2008-01-20 14:17:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresGOT AN INTERVIEW WITH RADIO STATION
tried to add this on but couldn't

I've been through both the US and Canadian family immigration processes, the US process sucks. Every step is ridiculously long. the fact that there are multiple steps seems designed to slow the process down. Why can't we just send in all of our applications at once. essentially no one gets denied at the I130 stage, yet we have to wait for the processing of that before we can file any of our supporting documents. Then everyone has to wait for an interview-we waited 4 months for an interview that lasted less than 3 minutes. We'd been married 4 years at that point, the interviewer had clearly decided to approve us before we even started talking, why make us go for an interview in that situation at all?? Even with the 4 month wait, we still had to rush around to actually get to Montreal because they would only tell me when the interview was scheduled 2.5 weeks before the date. There is no reason the interviews can't be scheduled months in advance instead of just for the next month, but they aren't.

Simple changes to the system, streamlining it would make it less work for USCIS, less work for us, and make the process run faster. If all of the forms were sent in at once, only one person would have to check it over for completeness and if not complete send it all back. Instead each form is checked all by it's self and each error gets it's own RFE. It's like the system has been designed to break up US/foreign marriages by stressing them with years of separation.

Edited by thermophile, 06 February 2008 - 04:06 PM.

thermophileNot TellingCanada2008-02-06 16:05:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresGOT AN INTERVIEW WITH RADIO STATION
this is great, thanks for doing all the work to make this happen. do you know if there will be a web archive of the show? I have class during the time that it'll be aired.
thermophileNot TellingCanada2008-02-06 15:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduressocial security number
ok thanks for the info
thermophileNot TellingCanada2006-11-10 19:06:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduressocial security number
humm this is a bit different SSN question. My husband (Canadian) has a US SSN because he has worked in the US on a J1 visa. Will he need to apply for a new SSN. His is a 1... SSN and his card specifically says not valid for work without a visa. It's a while off, but this discussion made me wonder.

thanks
thermophileNot TellingCanada2006-11-09 12:16:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAdditional Processing??

Your frustration is totally understandable. Yes, seems most get the noa1 within 10 days of receipt, but...not everybody. With that said, There is a 30 day response time window. Meaning, USCIS has 30 days to get your noa1 out before they have to start acting on your calls. But, based on your timeline, seems like you are in the position to request some action. How did you send your packet? If it was regular mail then unfortunately you might have to start over. Stop pay the check and send your application packet again. Hopefully you sent it via fedex. Verify the delivery date and who signed for it and push a little harder for them to track it down.
Hard to tell you to relax because we would be worried too.

BTW...I called USCIS once or twice every week because our I-129f never got uploaded to the website. I never got the impression that someone could call too much or too soon. Customer service reps sometimes do their job and sometimes they don't.
The way I saw it...they are working for me so I was not shy to call and ask questions.

Hang in there and good luck :thumbs:


I think their application has been received already as shown on her timeline. Would it be hurt if she send her packet again?
CQ & CSFemaleCanada2010-03-05 21:46:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAdditional Processing??

I am going out of my mind!!! I am so happy for all of my fellow February filers receiving their NOA1's, but I am also a tad jealous as we still haven't!! My husband has called USCIS multiple times now. For awhile he was getting zero information - they were saying it was just more backlogged than usual, etc. But then when he called yesterday, they told him that our file was receiving "additional processing". He couldn't find out what that meant exactly - he called and talked to two different people. They said it could be a variety of things - something could have been missed on the application (so hard for me to fathom, as I must have reread everything 20 times!!), we could have misspelled a name or address, didn't put in the correct name, mixed something up, etc, etc. I just can't imagine that we did any of those things, as, like I say, we both checked over everything so many times before sending the package! I feel like I'm at my wits end already!! The people he talked to said they will likely mail or phone my husband for further information....but it's been a month today since they received the package and there's been no contact yet! Both of us have perfectly clean records, so nothing like that could be an issue. We haven't had any previous marriages, and there are no children involved. It seemed like an extremely standard petition to me! So I am feeling so lost and completely crazy with my lack of control on the whole thing. I hate that I can't personally call - not that my husband isn't perfectly capable and doing a great job, but I just really want to be able to talk to someone myself! And I hate that no one has any information! And since there's no file started for us yet, we can't even give them our email addresses to try and speed *something* up! It's just really driving at my very last nerve....I feel like I had an expectation at how things were going to go down, and this is failing left and right. It's not giving me a lot of hope for the speediness of the rest of our application....I am just so down :(

Has anyone heard of this or been through it? If so, please tell me your story! I guess is this an RFE?? I guess we won't know until they finally get in contact with us will we? Ugh. Thankfully, we are booking tickets for Luke to come and visit me in Canada in a few weeks, so that will be wonderful. I was just so hopeful about where we would be in the process at that point, and it's not looking good so far!!

Ugh, sorry to be a downer. I truly am super excited for everyone who is getting further along in the process! I can only imagine what a relief that must be :) I hope everyone has a great weekend.


Hi KristinAnn, sorry to hear that you haven't received the NOA1. Did you check if they have cashed the check already? I'm also new here and I just wanted to give you some support here.
CQ & CSFemaleCanada2010-03-05 17:17:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresOfficial document stating I can travel to the U.S.

Just wondering if anyone has come across a web page or document provided by the U.S. government/CBP/USCIS that explains that it is possible to travel to the U.S. while going through a petition? I know I need to show proof of ties, etc, but I remember reading a thread where someone was told they weren't allowed to travel (needed advance parole I think they were told), and they had to go up the chain of command and haul out the rule book to prove the BP Officer wrong. That story has haunted me since.

Anyway, just wondering if there's a doc I could pull out and say "I was informed by your government that as long as I provide proof of my return, I am eligible to enter the U.S. without any other formal paperwork" - something along those lines. Just trying to think ahead. I know it's not common, but I like to hope for the best and prepare for the worst :blush:

You need to show ties to Canada especially financial ties like mortgage, leases, job, etc.
I showed them my employment letter, pay stubs, car insurance, bank statement, and telephone bills. Anything hat shows you have obligation to come back Canada. However, it is still at CBP's discretion to let you in or not. No guarantee. Good luck!
CQ & CSFemaleCanada2011-01-15 22:08:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresSS card

Hello everybody!

It's been a while! I am here in US since 11/18. I have been working and accommodating to my new place.

I hope you can help me with a question: I received my SSC and permanent resident card with my maiden name (which is really long), I thought I would receive them with my husband's last name. Now I want to change my name for my husband's last name. we got married in Dominican Rep. I went to the SSA and the lady suggested me to change my name in my green card first and then in my SSC to avoid confusions. But when i go to the USCIS site, the only reasons to change your legal name are: USCIS error, legal name changed since the green card issuance and some others. And that cost me 365.00 :blush:

Any ideas about what to do?

I'll appreciate it


What state are you in?
CQ & CSFemaleCanada2011-01-20 20:01:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresDo you have to be completely nude for medical exam?
I had to strip down to panty for both X-ray and medical exam but but have some kind of cloth to cover you.
CQ & CSFemaleCanada2011-02-04 15:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresDo I need to show Canadian ties if I'm under K-1 visa?
QUOTE (baron555 @ Oct 22 2009, 02:07 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Stephen + Elisha @ Oct 22 2009, 04:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
A K-1 fiance visa is technically a nonimmigrant visa. But the stated purpose of entry under the visa is to marry the US citizen petitioner within 90 days of entry and adjust status on that basis to lawful permanent resident. It is a nonimmigrant visa insofar as no legal basis for immigration exists yet, i.e., at the time of entry. But it anticipates immigration, and so requires many of the same procedures and processing as an immigrant visa.

In short, a K-1 is not really the right choice for you if you just want to come visit. A K-1 is to come here, get married, and file for a green card.



Actually I think the K-1 is really what you want.....if that is to move to the US, marry your BF, and then stay with him permanently here in the US.




Yes marrying each other is what we alway want just that now we are speeding up our plan as we originally wanted to spend more time together knowing each other and get marry. Now our plan might be he visits me more frequently and file a petition meanwhile then move the US when I get my K-1 and get marry. Thanks all for you prompt replies. I was terrified by those CBP and that ties to home country things.
CQ & CSFemaleCanada2009-10-22 16:59:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresDo I need to show Canadian ties if I'm under K-1 visa?
Hello All, I'm new to this VJ and find this site is very helpful. I'm so grateful to find this site before I make another big mistake. Here is my story:

I met my bf online when I was working in Hong Kong in 2008. I was born in HK and moved to Canada with my family in 1993. I'm a Canadian and my bf is an American. This June 2009 I decided to quit my job in HK and moved back to the North America soil so that I could be closer to my bf and meet him more often. Our original plan was I moved back, then I stayed in US for couple months and then get married. However, things ain't working out as easy as we thought. I have been travelled back and forth US without a returned ticket couple times without any problem. But this time (this week) I was refused entry to the USA for the reasons that a) I did not have a returned ticket; cool.gif they found job resume in my suitcase; c) I have no Canadian ties, ie house, mortgage, bills, rent, job etc. The CBP officer said to me that I needed those evidence in order to let me in and I will need them every time I try to enter USA. So I was sent back to Canada. My problem is that I do not have a house in Canada as I stay with my parents. I'm now at the stage of looking for a job in Canada. And it makes no sense to rent a house without a job.


I talked to my bf and we thought that may be he would petition a K-1 fiance visa in order to get me in. My question is: if my K-1 visa got approved and I am going to USA under K-1 visa, do I still need to show the evidence of Canadian ties? Coz as far as I know, K-1 is a non-immigrant visa and as long as it is a non-immigrant visa you need to show ties to your home country.

Please help us. Thanks!
CQ & CSFemaleCanada2009-10-22 15:49:00