The I-129F package arrived at VSC

[Tim and Erin 3]

It took 3 days to arrive. I've been tracking it on the USPS website. Now why oh why is my stomach in knots?? Could it be a bit of excitement? Probably nerves. Oh I know this is just the very first step, but Tim and I are having a bit of a celebration today about that first tiny step in our journey. << I hope we dance like this all the way through the process.

My question is...When Tim gets the NOA1, will there be some kind of i.d. number on it or something that I could quote as proof of intentions when crossing the border next time? That is, if I'm getting a hassle about wanting to stay for an extended visit? Or should Tim send me the NOA1 or a copy of it? Just wondering.

You all have a great day! I am.

[BriCar 0]

Nothing more exciting than true love!

It would be good to have a copy of your NOA at the border when you go to visit.

Good Luck on all the rest of the steps.

I like your I am here... quote

[Linasaur 0]

A copy of the NOA1 has a lot more weight to it than just a reference number, so that's the preferred option. If you want to be even safer about it, bring with you as much of your I-129F application as you can, if not the entire thing. It's going to make a serious and organized impression

(But you shouldn't have trouble at all unless your visit length is approaching a month or longer.)

[Tim and Erin 3]

A copy of the NOA1 has a lot more weight to it than just a reference number, so that's the preferred option. If you want to be even safer about it, bring with you as much of your I-129F application as you can, if not the entire thing. It's going to make a serious and organized impression

(But you shouldn't have trouble at all unless your visit length is approaching a month or longer.)

I'm planning to visit for the entire summer if the border officer allows it. And I do have an entire copy of the petition that I can show. I'm not too concerned about NOT being allowed to visit, as I'll have...

1. a note from my employer with an expected return to work date

2. a return flight ticket

3. proof of bank balance to support myself during my visit

4. copy of entire visa application

5. copy of NOA1

...but I'm prepared mentally for them to cut my visit short. It's happened before when I wasn't nearly as prepared. If it happens, it happens...I'll just enjoy my visit while it lasts.

To BriCar: That quote was from a card Tim sent me one time. I love it.

[Spoom 8]

Back when I was pending I-129F, I took a copy of the entire application (you did make copies, right?) and the NOA1 in a grocery bag in a pocket of my suitcase. I think it was only asked about once, but it did tend to help as I wasn't turned back when I visited throughout the process.

[Linasaur 0]

I think when you have the visa in progress, the chances of you being denied the entire extent of your visit drop significantly. And you seem really well prepared, Erin G. With all of that information, it's hard to imagine what more someone would need to prove that you can't overstay.

[Hugglebuggles 60]

A copy of the NOA1 has a lot more weight to it than just a reference number, so that's the preferred option. If you want to be even safer about it, bring with you as much of your I-129F application as you can, if not the entire thing. It's going to make a serious and organized impression

Nice mustache!!

But yes, like everyone said, bringing an actual copy of the NOA1 (or the original, whatever works) is the best way to do it. The document will have a case number, but I wouldn't be surprised if the CBP didn't know what the heck you were talking about if you tried to provide it. They are generally familiar with visa names and what they do, but detailed knowledge of visa processes generally aren't their thing. You'll see when you cross with the visa!

I think you are armed with some strong evidence, so good luck! You have the right attitude about it. If they cut your visit short then so be it, you'll enjoy the trip either way! Staying for the summer is what, 3 months perhaps? I don't see that as a big issue. It's usually when people declare an intent to stay for the full 6 months that they have issues.

When our visa was being processed and I would visit the US, I really never had evidence with me at all. I had a prof of enrollment form from my university that I kept in my purse. But, I got lucky, they usually didn't really care. You may be surprised how easy it may be! You just never know.