Economy and K-1 Filings

[beenthere 0]

I saw a news itme that all types of immigration filings to USA have declined by almost a half, because of the economy. There was no specific mention of K-1 filings.

If the unemployment goes up to 9%, which is predicted, I don't know what immigrant can find a job here.

The marriage agencies in Russia and Ukraine are already reporting a sharp drop in Americans coming there.

I assume eventually there would be very signficant drop in K-1 filings. Nonetheless, there are many filings already in the pipeline; unless some people withdraw those would have to be addressed, and timeline would not change, at least for now.

I am told that as little as three years ago, when there were not this number of K-1 filings, one could get an approval in about six weeks.

I am not sure if we would return to those, but it would appear to me that the foreign brides matter would be signicantly reduced.

As we all know, finding and bringing here a foreign spouse is not for someone of faint of the heart, and wallet.

Edited October 25, 2008 by beenthere

[panterchen 1]

Yeah I assume a drop in all visa application too but for various reasons and not just the mail ordered brides. I mean once the economy struggles people start worrying more if they will be able to find a job. But to be honest, I don't know if 9% is correct but if it is then this is nothing to really worry about. 9% is still lower than what we have in many countries all over Europe and still I know that you will get a job at this rate if you are decently qualified and willing. Maybe some people might also start thinking about whether it becomes more attractive for the USC to come to their country?!

It's on us, the beneficiaries, to educate us in order to give us higher chances on the American job market. Learning English, getting work experience, not being picky about the jobs we will take, and getting an education in the US or at home (even if that might not always be equal to the American education) is crucial (for finding jobs in the US but also anywhere else) I assume.

[beenthere 0]

I am more interested in exploring the effect financial crisis would have on K -1 timeline.

It was only a few years ago that you paid $125 and got your approval in four weeks or so.

Then came the global economic prosperity, which fueled a boom in international marriages; more money, easy travel, easy communications etc.

The USCIS raised the fee to $455, but that did not stem the tide, they just make more money from the demand; the waite now is six months or longer.

Now situation is in reverse. Would we revert to four weeks approval time?

Not immediately, but I think eventually we will, as applicants drop off.

Some of people already in pipeline may get their approvals fairly qucikly as new K-1 filers are substantially fewer.

Edited October 25, 2008 by beenthere

[spookyturtle 9,466]

Perhaps USCIS will divert some of their manpower to other petitions and applications to speed up the AOS, citizenship, etc, process. I think that the number of K-1 filings is smaller than some of these. Anyone have any links to statistics?