Canadian Fiance - K1 or K3 route?

[ClevelandSue 0]

Hi, I've been reading so many things and hearing so many different stories I'm just not sure which approach is right for us.

Any help would be much appreciated. We will live in the US once everything is complete.

My fiance:

is Canadian and often visits me in the states since it's easy to get back and forth between US and Canada.

has two children that will remain in Canada after we marry.

often travels out of the country.

would love to set up a dual citizenship if possible.

Can anyone offer advice on which legal route we should take?

I want to be sure he can still travel out of country easily during this process since he has kids in Canada but then still work in the US as soon as possible, and also be covered by my medical insurance as soon as possible.

What's the best option?

Thanks.

[payxibka 10,045]

multiple posting

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=172658

[Kathryn41 3,205]

If the freedom to leave the US quickly after arrival is a requirement then K-1 is not the best route. Look into getting married first and then doing a K-3 or a CR-1 visa, both of which allow the applicant to leave and return safely to the US. A K-1 is 'stuck' in the US until he/she receives either an AP (Advance Parole) or greencard, both of which can't be applied for until after marriage. A CR1 is the best option if the ability to work shortly after arrival is also important. A K-1 and a K-3 both need to wait until they receive Employment Authorization which can take a number of months.

Edited January 17, 2009 by Kathryn41