ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresConversation with my Lawyer
QUOTE (rebeccajo @ May 6 2008, 12:02 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (pushbrk @ May 6 2008, 11:24 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Q's 10 and 11. Your lawyer may have a contact at USCIS that has more access than the misinformation line folks do but there is no "attornies only" phone line to call or trick to use.


Yes they do have access to individuals at the service center that self-petitioners do not have.


I agree with Rebeccajo with a little more specificity. During the processing of my ex-wife's paperwork (AOS) we hired an Immigration Attorney. During periods for extended delays and/or problems, he occasionally referred to discussions he'd had with the AILA liason to USCIS. I was convinced that there was a special person, if not "back door" for AILA members to get information, at least. They probably couldn't speed up the process any, but might get a human to discuss things with.

I also found this link on the AILA website, which would suggest the same thing. http://www.aila.org/...spx?docid=10309
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2008-05-06 11:34:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresquestion about the bank letter
QUOTE (yoke @ May 8 2008, 08:57 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
ya i was reading something somewhere about you need to show all your deposits i mean cant i just have the bank write a letter that says I have such balance in my account i mean wouldnt that work or do i still need to show each month statement?


There are people who have brought a "few" recent bank statements and others who have brought a year's worth. In reality, you don't need to submit ANY regular monthly statements for your account. As a previous poster pointed out, the instructions are specific about the statement from the bank as being one that lists current balance as well as total deposits over the past 12 months (not last year). They are looking for you to request this specific letter from the bank, not submit the equivalent bank monthly statements. My bank charged me $30 for it. Thanks, BankOfAmerica, for taking good care of my money.

Its generally felt that the letter provides a rough cross check for the income and assets statements that you make on the Affidavit of Support. If you tell them you've got megabucks in assets and its not reflected in the current balance of the bank statement ("Ohhhhh, its in my other account") then you're running a risk. If you tell them you make Megabucks of income and your bank statement shows paltry deposits, then you'd better have a shiny clean employment letter or your risking some serious questions or an RFE.

Obviously, the numbers don't have to exactly match anything, but the total picture from all evidence needs to convey the impression that you can afford to support having a spouse and/or family (especially above the poverty limits).
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2008-05-08 21:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureshelp needed
Hi,
I'll add my confirmation to others. I filed for a K1 visa and my number is EAC0720450XXX. It does appear to be EAC (for Vermont Service Center), 07 (the year), 204 (the ordinal day of the year = Jul 11), and some ordinal sequence number for the receipt during the day. So, if I might offer a helpful suggestion: Why not take a look at the back of the cancelled check that was sent along with the application? That contains the number printed on it. On mine, its pretty clear. If you don't have the check, call the customer service at the bank and ask them to read it to you. Most keep scanned copies, even if they have sent the original document out to the client. Just a thought to help thing along.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-08-24 13:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFIANCEE WANTS TO RETURN TO KOREA!!
Hi,
I'll add my confirmation to others. I filed for a K1 visa and my number is EAC0720450XXX. It does appear to be EAC (for Vermont Service Center), 07 (the year), 204 (the ordinal day of the year = Jul 11), and some ordinal sequence number for the receipt during the day. So, if I might offer a helpful suggestion: Why not take a look at the back of the cancelled check that was sent along with the application? That contains the number printed on it. On mine, its pretty clear. If you don't have the check, call the customer service at the bank and ask them to read it to you. Most keep scanned copies, even if they have sent the original document out to the client. Just a thought to help thing along.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-08-24 13:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedurestypical US Laywer fees for filing K-1 Visa?
QUOTE (anarcho @ Sep 7 2007, 06:01 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
The more I look over the guide the more it seems crazy to pay much for a lawyer. Kind of like paying a lawyer to help you fill out your application for a passport.

How long does the K-1 Visa process take from sending in the petition to getting the green card? I was told it could take from 6 to 8 months. If it was to take that long would I be able to go to the USA on a visitors VISA in that period of waiting for my greencard?

Also, I am still unclear about what happens after we are married and that 2 years in the USA thing. It means I have to live in the USA for 2 year after marriage? But I can leave for vacation right?


Actually, I think its more like paying a Tax Attorney to fill out the short form to pay your taxes. Of course, I don't know what tax forms are like in Canada.

With my ex-wife, we hired an Immigration Attorney to file the paperwork to change from a J-1 visa (I think) to obtain her Permanant Residency. It cost us $2400 and they: screwed up more forms than they got right, were not prompt in filing or following up on things; did not agressively pursue answers when we had questions about "What the hell's happening?" and generally felt like an uncomfortable buffer (instead of advocate) between ourselves and INS (now USCIS). Consider this: if THEY do the filing, you are just one of ?? clients. If YOU do the filing, you are #1 and ONLY client.

With my fiance, we/I am doing all the filing and watching. Before, I only had the lawyer to call and when he couldn't tell me anything I never knew if it was HIM or INS that was the problem (regardless of what he TOLD me). Now, even though its painful to wait, I've got a great crowd of people on VJ who are going through exactly (well nearly) the same thing. That brings a substantial amount of inner peace to know I'm not alone and that there are people I can check things out with. If you think your lawyer will let you connect with his other client's, forget it.

If I had/have a problem, I know that I can get legal help and I know it'll be expensive. But I won't be paying $000's just for paperwork that I can do myself. And he (or she) will have lots more time to spend helping those who really need it. :-D
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-09-07 19:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFiance visa versus spouse visa--timeline benefits?
QUOTE (capnerom @ Sep 19 2007, 12:46 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I want to bring my fiance to the US as quickly as possible. He is a Brazilian citizen and currently lives and works in Brazil. I am trying to figure out the best option to move him here as quickly as possible.
Any thoughts on the best option?
1) get married in Brazil and apply for the spouse visa. From the research I’ve done thus far, it seems there is some paperwork/holding periods in Brazil as well.
2) apply for the fiancé visa and get married here. (I worry that if we do this, he will not be able to return to Brazil for a certain period of time. Our actually wedding ceremony will be in Brazil next September and I need him to be able to attend, obviously! smile.gif
3)get married in some other country with fewer marriage restrictions such as Mexico, then apply for the spouse visa
4)Other options?

Hi,
Unless I misunderstand something, there is obviously something wrong here. If you bring him to the US on an Fiance visa, you have 90 days within which time you must get married or he has to return to Brazil. In other words, a Fiance visa presumes that you will be married in the US during the 90 day period. You can't return to Brazil for "[Y]our wedding". Maybe you didn't understand that, or maybe you are referring to someone else's wedding that you feel you must attend, as another poster assumed.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-09-19 17:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFinally filing!!
QUOTE (cheecks @ Sep 30 2007, 08:06 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE

Instructions ask for "a" photo of petitioner and "a" photo of benefitiary, then later refers to them collectively as "photos". It threw me for a while until I realized they were just combining them in later references (Sheesh!). I think I might have sent them 2 of each just because I had them.

Check part was nerve wracking for me too, but I know why. I've been doing electronic banking for years so I didn't have any checks. laughing.gif When I started reading up on this and thinking it through, I knew that I wanted traceability through my own bank (as explained before). So, I ordered checks (smallest amount) and now they are on the shelf where they will gather dust or I lose them. ohmy.gif


hi there...we are about to send our application in two weeks....and i just want to make clarification why you sent 2 pictures for you adn your fiancee? coz in guide that you can read here..it only state that you need one passport size photo for each....i sent already all the documents he needed from me for the application and that include one photo only....please confirm...thank you so much....

cheecks


I sent 2 pics of each because I HAD them. The I-129F instructions say "a photo" for petitioner and "a photo" for benefitiary. ~Laura and Nick~ has a lawyer telling him/her that 2 are needed for each. I believe that is what was required in the past, but not anymore. For safety, it should not hurt things to send in 2 pics for each.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-09-30 19:59:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFinally filing!!
QUOTE (KateandNik @ Sep 30 2007, 04:42 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I'm not sure where I read that I needed 2 passport style pictures because here in the guides and in the instructions for the I-129F it says only "a" photo a piece is needed... But I'm almost positive I read it somewhere, so I'm going to keep it at two.


As for the other stuff... Yes, I have ALL pages of my passport, twice. smile.gif I'm going now to make copies of the thing. One each for me and my fiance as is and then 2 more black and white for good measure. I've labeled the pictures with names as best as I can... some say "Nik's aunt" or "Nik's cousin" etc. I'm using a personal check for 455.00$ with today's date. (The check part was the most nerve wracking for some reason...)


Instructions ask for "a" photo of petitioner and "a" photo of benefitiary, then later refers to them collectively as "photos". It threw me for a while until I realized they were just combining them in later references (Sheesh!). I think I might have sent them 2 of each just because I had them.

Check part was nerve wracking for me too, but I know why. I've been doing electronic banking for years so I didn't have any checks. laughing.gif When I started reading up on this and thinking it through, I knew that I wanted traceability through my own bank (as explained before). So, I ordered checks (smallest amount) and now they are on the shelf where they will gather dust or I lose them. ohmy.gif
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-09-30 16:41:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFinally filing!!
QUOTE (CL79 @ Sep 30 2007, 02:35 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Does the USC really need to copy ALL pages of the passport at this stage? I thought just the page with the entry stamp to his fiancee's country or the third country is required.

My fiance is about to send off the petition now and I thought we only need one passport style photograph for each of us instead of two? Okay now I am confused.

Cheers.... wacko.gif


I just checked to make sure and here is what I found on Page 2 of I-129F instructions.


3. What Documents Do You Need to Show That YouAre a U.S. Citizen?
A. If you were born in the United States, give USCIS acopy, front and back, of your birth certificate.
B. If you were naturalized, give USCIS a copy, front andback, of your original Certificate of Naturalization.
C. If you were born outside the United States and you area U.S. citizen through your parents, give USCIS:
1. Your original Certificate of Citizenship, or
2. Your Form FS-240 (Report of Birth Abroad of aUnited States Citizen).

D. In place of any of the above, you may give USCIS acopy of your valid, unexpired U.S. passport issued with a validity period of at least five years. You must submit copies of all pages in the passport.

Maybe its just me, but when they say "all pages in the passport" I send them "all pages in the passport". Even the blank ones. It seemed dopey, but I'd rather give them more than to slow things down with an RFE.

Edited by rouguewave, 30 September 2007 - 04:32 PM.

rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-09-30 16:29:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresFinally filing!!
QUOTE (KateandNik @ Sep 30 2007, 01:48 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hey Everyone! As the subject states, I'm going to mail my application tomorrow and I just wanted to double check and make sure I have everything I need... As you all know, this is very stressful!!! smile.gif

Ok, so here goes...
  • Check for 455.00$
  • Cover letter stating the contents of the packet and what the submission is for
  • I-129F form (signed and dated, quadruple checked for accuracy)
  • Supplement to I-129F for question #18 (labeled with question #, question, signed and dated)
  • Copy of USC Passport to show citizenship
  • Letter of intent to marry from me and my fiance (signed and dated)
  • G-325A (all 4 sheets) and supplement for USC (signed and dated)
  • 2 passport style photos for USC (labeled on the back with my name) in plastic baggie labeled "Photo of *name*" stapled to a piece of paper tabbed "Photo of USC"
  • G-325A for beneficiary and 2 passport style photos (same as for USC)
  • Evidence of Meeting:
  • Copy of USC passport with entry and exit stamps labeled with little post-it flags
  • Internet trip itinerary, copies of flight tickets before use, copies of boarding pass stubs and baggage claim tickets for flight
  • Certificate from the police depeartment in Macedonia stating I stayed at my fiance's address from MM/DD/YY to MM/DD/YY
  • Receipts from ATM withdrawals, purchases, and bank statements from a credit card showing purchases in Macedonia
  • Train tickets for both of us for a day trip to a different city
  • Additional "for good measure" information:
  • Screenshots from email lists showing dates of messages both from USC and beneficiary
  • Telephone call log
  • Flight Itinerary for future trip to Macedonia for December/January
  • 8 Pictures of us with his family and in front of various landmarks (the American Embassy in Skopje, etc.)
Ok, what do you guys think? Did I forget something? Should I take out something? All opinions appreciated!!! smile.gif
God Bless,
Kate


Have you identified (by name) the people in the pics?
Have you explained how you met thoroughly so the beaurecrats can understand? (I don't recall if this is Q#18)
Did you make copy of ALL pages of US Passport (vice just "important" ones)?
Have you made EXACT copies of the package as you will send it to the USCIS (I made 3).

Some of these are picky, but they are things that I went back and brushed up on, because when I looked at my pkg a second time I thought I should. A recommendation about sending the material is to send it both registered and return-receipt requested. Unless you send it "Express Mail" which accomplishes the same thing. The point is to make sure that you get back documented confirmation from Post Office that they delivered to USCIS. With the delays that are happening in processing NOA1s, it seems this is critical these days so that you can relax a little knowing that its "in the building" even if you don't get confirmation from USCIS about this.

Also, you mentioned "check" but just to be clear, is this a personal check that you can tell (from your bank) when its been cleared? This is another item that people have had problems with on the Forum. They send money orders that can't be tracked, so they get no confirmation from USCIS until they receive NOA1. Its not mandatory, just helps the stress level, I think.

With the copies, I made multiple and sent one off (immediately) to honey ko so that she'd be able to see what it looks like. Of course, its subject to RFE (none yet) and she will need originals of all materials when she goes for interview. But it helped us during our discussions about what's going on and at times when she had to deal with situations regarding her kids.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-09-30 13:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAPPLYING FOR A VISITOR VISA WHILE K1 PETITION IS IN PROCESS
QUOTE (wilson and shai @ Oct 1 2007, 06:42 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi,

I just would like to ask if one could apply for a us visitor visa while the k1 petition is in process. Would there be no problem at all? unsure.gif

Shai,
I am going to hope that someone else posts a more positive reply, because mine will not be. Applying for a US Tourist visa is easy, getting one is hard. From what I undestand in reading the forums, it does NOT impact the K1 visa process.

However, being granted a Tourist visa is subject to proving that you will return to the Philippines, which will be hard. The Embassy looks for extensive family ties, as well as material assets (home, bank accounts, land/business holdings), and contracts which will compell you to return.

We tried to get one for mahal ko and even with modest bank account, open business that she owned, and children remaining in Philippines they would not grant it to her. crying.gif
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-10-01 06:08:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresG-325A
Cheecks,
If that doesn't work, suggest that he ask in the County records office where the marriage took place to see if they have a copy of the Marriage Liscense application. It is possible that he had to provide a copy of that information when they wanted to get married.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-10-01 06:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresA Surprise in My Inbox
congratulations! :-D
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-10-22 19:35:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresSending Money
QUOTE (jasman0717 @ Nov 4 2007, 06:42 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I got sick of giving Western Union all that money too so opened up a savings account attached to my main account at my credit union. It came with an ATM card which I gave to Claudeth. It only cost me $1.50 for her to withdraw money instead of the $20 or more I was paying to Western Union and WU was also making money on the conversion rate.

I did the same thing through ingDirect (www.ingdirect.com). The differences are that 1) I sent her the ATM card via mail (actually in a package containing other things) and gave her the PIN when we chatted, and 2) they don't charge ATM fee that I can tell. I am a little frustrated that I can't tell the exchange rate, because they don't report it. So, every once in a while I ask for the amount she withdrew (php) and do the calculation myself. Also, its in my name but it hasn't posed a problem.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-11-04 19:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresgot NOA2 by mail.but USCIS online said case still pending?
Very much congratulations to you. good.gif good.gif good.gif

May the rest of your journey be swift and pleasant. kicking.gif kicking.gif
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-11-04 19:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresRFE FOR CRIMES NEVER COMMITTED!!!!
QUOTE (Mirla @ Nov 6 2007, 10:31 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (archie07 @ Nov 6 2007, 09:20 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
How ever, you haven't submitted [b]all the disposition for the criminal convictions you check off that you had. The letter form the departme of public safety clearly notes that the records of that deparment don't relfect if you have been arrested by any state, local or federal law enforcement agencies. Further that inquiry was based upon name check only and is not supported by a fingerprint comparison

I believe a fingerprint check may resolve the problem if all else fails.


He had live all his live in NY. We got the report from the whole county.
Some friends also mention the fingerprints. I've been looking all night and online where to get fingerprints taken and I went on to my fiance's town police department and it says this:

Can I get fingerprinted for non-criminal reasons?

Yes, the Police Department fingerprints residents for non-criminal
reasons. There is a charge for this service.

What I don't have clear is non-criminal reasons....??? Will this be fine to send with the RFE????


Mirla,

Look at the following website for information. Please note that this is NOT something that you can do for Pat, that it is something he will have to do for himself.

http://criminaljusti...ecordreview.htm
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-11-06 10:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresRFE FOR CRIMES NEVER COMMITTED!!!!
Mirla,

I don't believe that hope is lost, but first I am going to ask that you calm down. I have read what you posted and I believe they are telling you the answer you are looking for. Read again this section:

QUOTE (Mirla @ Nov 6 2007, 01:04 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
How ever, you haven't submitted all the disposition for the criminal convictions you check off that you had. The letter form the departme of public safety clearly notes that the records of that deparment don't relfect if you have been arrested by any state, local or federal law enforcement agencies. Further that inquiry was based upon name check only and is not supported by a fingerprint comparison. Therefore, the letter sumitted doesn't stablish that you checked off any of the boxes in error on questions 2 and 3 of page 3 on From I-129F...


Even though you made a mistake in the original petition, you now have to establish that there was a mistake. To do this you must...
1) Write a letter identifying the original mistake.
2) Provide information on the original 1 case disposition
3) Provide evidence of a criminal check based on fingerprints

Based on your description, I suspect that what you are missing is #3, based on what they say in the letter (RFE). When you request a criminal check, it can be based on name, address, etc or it can be based on fingerprints. A quick look on the internet shows that when it is a fingerprint request made at the state level, it reaches into the FBI database. I've linked to the request form for Missouri State Highway Patrol as an example.

What Pat has to do is determine how to produce a fingerprint search of his criminal records, which probably can be done through New York (his state) Highway Patrol. Then send ALL 3 pieces indicated above in AGAIN, even though you have sent them before. If the fingerprint search turns up any additional cases on his records, he will have to get information on those to add to the package.

I will take a look at the RFEs if you send them to me, but please understand that I am not a lawyer, immigration or otherwise. I have no experience with this. But I work with beaurecrats, so I've learned to read and think like they do. I cannot give you legal advise. I can only tell you what my eyes see.

Frank

http://www.mshp.dps....rms/SHP-158.pdf
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-11-06 08:09:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresNOA2 has finally arrived
Congratulations kicking.gif kicking.gif kicking.gif

I hope the rest of your journey is swift and problem-free. good.gif good.gif
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-11-12 23:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresAPPROVED!!!!!!!
Congratulations!!!!! kicking.gif kicking.gif kicking.gif

Here's hoping the rest of your journey is swift and effortless. dancin5hr.gif dancin5hr.gif dancin5hr.gif
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-11-26 21:05:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresMy petition is moving really fast
Travis,

Congratulations on the expedite and I believe its well deserved. Thanks for your service to our country and please enjoy the time you get to spend together with Michelle. Stay very safe during your deployment. We'd like you back here safe and sound.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-11-17 18:06:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedureswhat ds forms for the children of fiancee
QUOTE (TracyOz @ Dec 8 2007, 02:00 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
For fiancee'
DS156-k and DS-156

for kiddos
DS-156 and (if a male child over the age of ?) DS-157

hope that helps
Tracy

LOL - you do have to laugh when you see that they say "paperwork reduction act" yet all of the forms we have to fill in (and get copies of etc..)...


I believe this is INCORRECT, and I'm not sure what difference the gender of the child is.

Fiance will require DS-156, DS-156K, and DS-157. See http://philippines.u...v/wwwhivk1.html

Children will require DS-156, and DS-157.

According to the US Embassy Manila website: http://philippines.u...v/wwwhniv1.html
"All nonimmigrant visa applicants, except diplomatic (A), official (G), personal employees of A and G visa holders (A-3 and G-5), certain U.S. Government sponsored exchange visitors (J), and certain NAFTA treaty nationals (TN) and treaty dependents (TD), must pay the machine-readable visa application fee equal to $100 U.S. dollars.

This fee can only be paid at designated branches of Citibank or Bank of the Philippine Islands. It must be paid in Philippine currency at the American government exchange rate prevailing on the day of payment. The bank will provide a receipt and DS-157 Form where payment is machine-validated by check-rite."

In other words, make sure you pay the fee for the fiance and ALL children too and are provided a DS-157 form to bring to the embassy.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-12-09 13:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-134 Q11. I intend/do not intend to make specific contributions to the support of the person(s) named in item 3
QUOTE (ZeeNusah @ Dec 14 2007, 10:10 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
You may want to look here: http://www.visajourn.../Form-I-134.pdf



Zee,

Can you tell me where the motivation comes from for the example? I see nothing in the K1 or I-134 instructions that indicate the question isn't valid for K1 applicants. Thanks for the response.

Edited by rouguewave, 14 December 2007 - 10:52 AM.

rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-12-14 10:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresI-134 Q11. I intend/do not intend to make specific contributions to the support of the person(s) named in item 3
I'm very curious how folks responded to this question on the I-134 (Affidavit of Support). I'm assuming its not an issue of saying "I Intend" versus "I Do Not Attend", so I will be surprised if there are many poll responses that select the negative.

For me, its "of course I intend to support my fiance, later wife, and children". Seems like a no brainer to me. But its the text part I'm more curious about. So, I'm interested to hear how others filled that space. The instructions say:

If you check "intend," indicate the exact nature and duration of the contributions. For example, if you intend to furnish room and board, state for how long and, if money, state the amount in U.S. doallrs and state whether it is to be given in a lump sum, weekly or monthly, and for how long.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-12-13 23:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresLawyer keeping mum
QUOTE (wifetobe @ Jan 29 2008, 11:52 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (~Laura and Nick~ @ Jan 28 2008, 07:51 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I would have a conversation with your lawyer and ask him straight up what's going on.
Asking the person you are going to be married to, the person you are spending the rest of your life with to withhold information from you is very shady and makes even me nervous.
I'd be getting to the bottom of it asap.
What other dishonest tactics does he believe in?
I wish you luck!

Hi I'm back with an update lol!! My fiance misheard what our lawyer said wacko.gif so the big confusion is now a big sigh of relief wink.gif My lawyer basically said to me fiancé "I can not disclose information about you via public records, you would have to do a check for yourself" so I really don't know where my fiance got that from about the 'don't tell me' part.. I think it's overtime hours he's done in the last week. Sorry for the 'waste of time' post... I really wished I sorted it first before posting on here. no0pb.gif


I don't profess to be an expert on this, but reading through this thread, as well having a little understanding about the IMBRA requirements, my theory would be this: the lawyer is trying to tell your fiance that he (your fiance) should get a copy of his record and make sure that he gives it (not tells) you. The lawyer cannot do this, because his communication with your fiance is protected by lawyer-client privilege. The lawyer may also be trying to avoid taking on responsibility for this because of additional time and or costs it would incur beyond his already paid fees.

You having a complete, printed copy of your fiance's record equips you with all that you need to know about your fiance's past when it comes to the consular interview. The consular section will want to be sure that you have had full access and knowledge of your fiance's background, especially since there have been incidents in his past. Showing them that you have a copy of his record that he sent you (or that you got yourself) is more convincing (and secure) than just responding "Yes, he told me all about that."

Your fiance can get a copy of his records (I think) from the state police where he was convicted, or perhaps the FBI. If he has moved to various locations (different states in US) it might be worth getting a seperate report from each state he has lived in. He will have to make the request and pay some costs for each report. Doing it this way, rather than just sending you copies of his original court documents, is also more convincing because it will show that you've been given a more thorough search. Not just the single incident report(s).

Also, be prepared that it might take a little extra time for your Visa process, as your fiance's past might come up during the Name Check that the Service Center does, which might cause them to want to have someone take an extra look at it before approval.

Unless someone more knowledgeable tells you otherwise, I wouldn't take this effort lightly. The IMBRA requirements are in place to protect the incoming fiance and the Embassy consular section takes their role in their monitoring seriously. A few extra steps (and a few extra $$'s) on your fiance's part might save some precious time later.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2008-01-29 12:49:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresTranslate A Credit Card Bill?
QUOTE (Randy CA @ Mar 27 2008, 02:00 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
This kind of thing drives me nuts.

I was in Coast Rica with my Russian fiancée and as evidence that we were there I want to include a copy of my credit card bill that shows dozens of charges in Costa Rican colons. That seems to be pretty solid evidence. But it also shows the names of the business, such as “Restaurante Y Marisq.Paso” and “Gessa Jumbo Guanacaste CR”, where Gessa Jumbo is the name of a super market and Guanacaste is the name of the region in Costa Rica. Do I need to get this translated? Really? It seems kind of like having to translate your birth certificate because it says “Los Angeles, California” on it.


If there a a number of occurances and *some* of them appear to be recognizable entities (e.g. Restaurante = Restaurant) then don't worry about it. They will understand the more common ones. But as Joey2 pointed out, it is only secondary evidence that you were there. Be sure to have as much primary evidence as you can and the secondary evidence won't matter much.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2008-03-27 13:46:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresDo children need a medical exam?
Akamac,

Honey ko just came over with her kids and arrived Jan 13, 2008. The answer to your initial question is yes. If you're planning on bring the son over with the parent, the son will need to have a medical exam.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2008-03-30 19:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Proceduresquestion regarding pictures.
I copied our pictures into a MS Powerpoint document that allowed for ease of resizing and layout. I then put a "little" text about each group or pics (page) which fell far short of identifing all locations and people in the pics. Printing was easy from that point and I did it on my home color printer with regular bond paper.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2008-09-18 11:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & ProceduresRFEs and bad attorneys
MikelovesGracey,

It might be obvious, but I ask this anyway. Have you gotten a copy of all the documents filed on your behalf from the Attorney? If not, I would suggest that you request them, using some "safe" excuse, before you start making noises about letting them go. Otherwise, you might find they will drag their feet and not respond to such a request.

During my first marriage, when we had to process a Visa change, we used a lawyer who ended up being terrible. Non submission of forms, mistakes all over, and no follow through for delays. I finally started making sure we got copies of everything they sent and kept on the lawyers tail. The only reason we didn't boot them is because we'd already sunk the money and really didn't know where to insert ourselves into the process (we didn't know about VJ then).

One divorce and one better romance later, and my fiance did all our own processing for the Visa and AOS. This marriage and our process this time are both so much better.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2008-10-27 12:09:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionI voted as a Permanent Resident
QUOTE (Omoba @ Oct 20 2007, 03:14 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
What about a notarized statement from the official that said it was ok to vote, saying he mistakenly adviced you and include that.


What about a notarized statement from the official that said it was ok to vote, saying he mistakenly adviced you and include that.

I assume in the quote, that the poster is suggesting the poll worker(s) that you talked to on election day. If so, I suspect it would be difficult to get something like what is suggested from them. They are typically volunteer, civic minded people, rather than paid government officials. They would probably be mortified that they'd told you something wrong and put you at risk this way.

As another suggestion, you might document the discussion that you had with the City Clerk and ask that he/she sign it as further "proof" of your responsibility and diligence in dealing with the situation. If you keep it concise and non-accusatory (like your posting here) they might be willing to do that, especially since you've already had a productive discussion with them.

Typing it up and asking them to simply assert (by signing) that it represents an accurate record of your discussion with them might help. They might be reluctant if it reflects an admission of guilt on their (poll worker as member of election office process) part, so try to avoid that if possible. Their sensitivity will be (probably) that by admitting fault, they are opening themselves up to a lawsuit if your experience causes you further difficulty in your immigration process. Whether this happens (bringing lawsuit) or not, they will be concerned about suggesting their own guilt. If you frame it as only documenting the immediate discussion, they might agree, because you are telling the story and they are simply admitting to hearing it, not agreeing with it.

The point is to provide another bit of evidence to INS that you've been thorough and engaged others (the election officials) for their guidance.

I'm sorry for your experience this way, but admire you desire to participate in an important part of the democratic process.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-10-22 09:10:00
CanadaAttention all Shoppers
QUOTE (Niagaenola @ Sep 24 2007, 02:45 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I use it all the time I need anything from Macys.... I just got a whole load of stuff in the sale that was reduced by 25% and then you get the 11 % on top so total saving off the original price is 36%..... you have got to love macys....


Happy shopping

Kez


Actually, that isn't quite true. Based on the implications of what you said, the total discount would be something less. Let's say for example you wanted to buy an item that orignally was $100, reduced to $75. When you take 11% discount of that you will pay $66.75. So, the net discount off the original price is 33.25%.

A minor difference (2.75%) but technically accurate for the engineer in me who has to make the money to spend. biggrin.gif

Don't mean to rain on your parade here. Feel free to resume your shopping fantasies. tongue.gif
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-09-30 09:17:00
CanadaWhy does a flight that cost me 544.00 cost me 1800.00 a week later?
QUOTE (raphael7546 @ Nov 2 2007, 08:56 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My daughter flys (unaccompanied minor) on Delta Airlines all the time. The fare usually costs me around 500.00 us round trip from Vancouver, BC to SLC Utah. So I decided to book her flight for Christmas. She gets to spend a long Christmas vaction with us this year.
Last year she arrived Dec 16th & left the 21st.
This time, her school doesn't let out until Dec 21st. So she will be coming Dec 22 to Jan 6th.
I went online to book her flight and was shock to see that the price has tripled since I last booked a trip! This is the exact Air Line, & plane that she always flies. She was last here this past summer. Her American T Giving Trip for November is only 499.00 so why 1800.00 for a month later?!
They can't say fuel charges have increased that much! And yes, I know it's Christmas, but I paid 500 last Christmas (a week earlier) ?! #######??!


Sad to say, but it is definately because of the Christmas holiday. Yes, they jack up the prices when they know that people are flying for the holidays.

Just out of curiosity, I tried the Delta website for Dec 16th - 21st this year. The flight would cost $692.

I also just tried Dec 22 - Jan 6 but the price I got was only $1341. This is another frustrating example of flight price fluctuations. One time you try you get one price. Another time you get another price. That's because people call and make reservations (holding tickets) and then cancel them or they expire. They go back to being sold at the original price.

I also tried their flexible travel search option and indicated I could fly Dec 21 - 24 out (YVR -> SLC) and Jan 4-7 back (SLC -> YVR). The prices ranged from $488 Dec 24 - Jan 7 to $1879 Dec 21 - Jan 5. The point here is to be persistent, patient, and explore different options.

Finally, I tried travelocity (www.travelocity.com) for those dates (Dec 22 - Jan 6) and came up with 1 flight combo at $643 (United), 2 at $648 (Alaska, Northwest/Delta) and LOTS of others for less than $1,000. The point here is although I understand you might be used to having her fly Delta, but you might consider other options.

Just a few thoughts.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-11-02 22:20:00
PhilippinesWhat exactly is "Delbros"?
QUOTE (Sheriff Uling @ Aug 31 2007, 03:45 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (KansasDragon @ Aug 9 2007, 09:16 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
...Delbros = Delivery Brothers???

Yes! It's a group of black guys that pretend to be Filipino...


Racism Alert! kicking.gif Racism Alert kicking.gif no0pb.gif

Its a little known sect of the Catholic Church, that pledges to get your Visa there after "just a small donation" yes.gif
Somewhere between the Jesuits and Franciscans. tongue.gif

Edited by rouguewave, 31 August 2007 - 12:17 PM.

rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-08-31 12:17:00
PhilippinesCalling Cards to Phils
Hi,
I use calling cards that I purchase online from http://stiphonecard.com/ The first purchase it takes a little time to clear the Credit Card transaction, but afterwards it clears immediately. I've been buying from them for 1.5 years since I started courting honey ko. Its hard to pin down the EXACT cost of the call, but its a < 0.10 per minute. The variables include whether I call her cell or a landline to reach her and if we consume the whole card on a single call. The exact card changes within the STI family too. I suspect this is because they purchase bulk quantities of trunk time and package into cards. When they are gone, its a new cycle. So, when I go to replenish my cards its often a different card from the company for around the same price.

I usually buy $10 cards and plan (successfully) to use it up on a single call. This gives us over an hour of talk time and coupled with a cam its nice to hear and see her. I generally purchase multiple cards at the same time, so that I can get the best discount. They will periodically send email enticements for further discounts and I use these if I'm running low on PINs.

The quality is mostly good, although at times I'll have to try repeatedly to connect. But once it goes through its clear (from my side anyway). If I call her on her cell, it can be frustrating if the call drops or shes on a cell boundary where the quality will depreciate. The one small downside to this method is that it doesn't contribute to our "evidence of ongoing relationship" directly. The company will not provide records of calls made, although I've gotten them to confirm calls when I've talked with their customer service on the phone. All told, I'll keep using them.

We've also chatted using Yahoo IM voice chat and its "not bad" but can be spotty and delayed because of the reasons stated above. Its free and the better the connection at both ends (DSL, CABLE) the better the quality. It also helps to have headsets as you get vicious feedback with mic & speaker set up. (Ok, so I tried this for a while before flipping $15 for a headset).

That's been the experience so far.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-09-05 20:07:00
PhilippinesBOOKING FLIGHT MONTHS BEFORE HAVING THE VISA ON HAND
QUOTE (wilson and shai @ Oct 1 2007, 05:09 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Should we or should we not buy a ticket before having the visa on hand? and why?

shai

Shai,
Even if you ignore the possibility of AR, there is the current terrible delay in processing that is occuring for applications. In addition, if you booked your flight now, based on your current ESTIMATED timeline, you would be buying a ticket to come back during the height of the travel season.

If your estimated schedule is off even by just a few weeks, it will be frustrating thing for you and Wilson, but it will cost you hundreds of $'s less for the air travel.

I'd recommend that you wait until AT LEAST when you KNOW that you will have your interview. You can read the forums to see how long after the interview people usually get their visa, which I believe is delivered to your home or you can pick up.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-10-01 06:26:00
PhilippinesMy Interview Experience
Congratulations on your success. I hope the rest of your journey and life is calm and peaceful kicking.gif
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-10-06 08:16:00
Philippineswhere to stay in boracay
QUOTE (ED*Riza @ Sep 30 2007, 07:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello everyone,


I would like to ask what is the best place to stay in boracay? We plan to go there after my interview .... Any help is highly appreciated..



Riza

In Apr 06, Mahal ko and I went to Boracay and stayed at the Lorenzo South. It's the last resort on the beach (I think) or maybe its just so quiet that it seemed that way. Regardless, its near Boatstation 3.

We stayed in one of their Deluxe rooms, which were right on the beach and had beautiful views of the sand and ocean right outside the door. We thought the facilities were great and got both room service and ate at the on-beach dining area. The staff was friendly and courteous and the room (and facilities) seemed to be well maintained.

I think it caters to more of the couples (or quiet family) crowd which is part of why we picked it. Its pricier than some of the others, which makes it unappealing for the divers and low-budget couples and families. They don't have a whole lot of "extras" and a very small bar area, which also makes it unattractive to those looking for a "good time". Mahal ko got a massage there, which came free as part of the package we got and she really liked it.

We booked it online through www.asiatravel.com
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-09-30 18:17:00
PhilippinesMoving your cellphone from PI to US
Thanks for all the helpful responses. This is all good information.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-10-23 03:16:00
PhilippinesMoving your cellphone from PI to US
Can any of you share what your experiences were regarding the changes in cellphone service, usage, and equipment when you moved from PI to US? This is the latest discussions between honey ko and I. I understand a little of the technology and will be reading and researching more, but just thought I'd ask on the forum to see if there were any particular "nuggets" that members could offer. Things like:

Did you just bring your phone here (US) and sign up for a service, or have to buy a new one?
Any problems getting your cellphone to work with US provider, if you tried?
Did you find (or try to find) a plan that allowed you to exchange txts with Phil friends & family?

If this is covered elsewhere, I apologise for the duplicate. I did a quick look, but didn't see anything specific to this. Thanks.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-10-22 11:59:00
PhilippinesWe have been APPROVED!!
Congratulations! kicking.gif kicking.gif kicking.gif

Here's hoping the rest of your journey is swift and painless. good.gif good.gif
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-11-05 20:17:00
Philippinesmedical at st.lukes
QUOTE (Haole @ Nov 24 2007, 12:54 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (irene @ Nov 23 2007, 03:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Sha and Scott @ Nov 24 2007, 09:04 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
So does this mean that even if you have a Medical Appointment, say, on December 19, 2007 and an Interview Schedule on Jan. 3, 2008, you can have a medical exam earlier than December 19? Say for example Dec. 12?

yap the sooner the better so when u have any problem u will not rush into ur interview more on if ur bringing any kids with u , th mediacl of the kids take 3days coz of the skin test. the medical is valid 1 month prior to interview date.

QUOTE
My wife and amak did theirs almost 2 months early!

! sure would like to see where you got that information about the medical only being valid for ONE month?
Something NEW???

Part of the confusion for me is that Sheriff Ulings Manila Embassy K1 Visa Guide (section 4.6 on SLEC) says: "If the medical exam is taken anytime over a month before the visa interview, there is a risk that the results could be invalid, which means the beneficiary will have to take another medical exam before the visa can be approved."

However, the USEM page on the medical examination (http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwh3218.html) says: "Medical examinations are generally valid for 6 months".

I just got the NOA2 for Mahal ko's visa and would love to have her and the kids get medicals, as well as get the CFO attendance out of the way while I'm there from Dec 21 - Jan 5. I'm not holding out hopes that we'll get an Interview scheduled by then, so if we can proceed with Meds and CFO without Interview appt, that' be great.
rouguewaveMalePhilippines2007-11-24 22:29:00