K2 Cusotdy Requirements

[baron555 934]

I haven't seen the answers to my situation.

My potential future wife lives in Russia. A year ago her good friend was tragically killed leaving behind a 1 year old boy. The father gave up all rights. She has "adopted" the boy. If he is to come to the US under a K2 visa, what custody paperwork will be required.

She has the boy's official birth certificate, a certified letter from the father absolving all rights, and the official document appointing her as trustee for the child.

Is there any further custody level she should obtain?

Does she need to change the boys surname to hers or can this be done in the US?

Should I hire an immigration attorney since this seems to be a slightly special case?

Tnx, Phil

[geezer 1]

I haven't seen the answers to my situation.

My potential future wife lives in Russia. A year ago her good friend was tragically killed leaving behind a 1 year old boy. The father gave up all rights. She has "adopted" the boy. If he is to come to the US under a K2 visa, what custody paperwork will be required.

She has the boy's official birth certificate, a certified letter from the father absolving all rights, and the official document appointing her as trustee for the child.

Is there any further custody level she should obtain?

Does she need to change the boys surname to hers or can this be done in the US?

Should I hire an immigration attorney since this seems to be a slightly special case?

Tnx, Phil

There needs to be a legal adoption in Russia simply being appointed trustee wont do it. The US wont recognize informal adoptions for either K-4 or IR/CR-2.

Edited January 14, 2009 by geezer