when should we file?

[rebeccajo 14]

You don't need to 'prove' the bonafides of your relationship with the I129F filing.

You need to prove you met within the last two years.

Boarding passes and passport stamps are the best proof of this.

It will not hurt to include some evidence of your bonafide relationship in your I129F filing (a few photos; some emails; copies of cards or letters between the two of you; etc) but save the bulk of this for your consular interview.

Getting an I129F petition approved is not hard. There are VERY few requirements - proof from the USC of their citizenship; proof that both parties are free to marry; declarations that both parties intend to marry the other; and proof they have met within the past two years. That's pretty much it. Not hard.

Getting a visa may be a different matter, but for bonafide couples joy can usually be had. It just takes some homework.

Always remember that the particular consulate you will interview through should be your guide in preparing for interview date. Avoid generalities like 'South American" or "Middle Eastern" consulate. Study what anecdotally and factually occurs at YOUR consulate.

*edited because I can't spell*

Edited February 3, 2009 by rebeccajo

[pushbrk 12,827]

Okay! So basically for the I-129F packet, we just need to prove that it's a legitimate relationship? For that we should use primary evidence such as boarding passes, passports, hotel receipts and secondary evidence such as pictures and chat logs, etc?

So we could mail off the paquet before my visit in April- but of course take lots of pictures and save every receipt to show as proof of an ongoing relationship?

Thanks! Jen, USC

Start by reading the guides and form instructions very carefully. You'll find that no, you don't need to "prove that it's a legitmate relationship" when filing the petition. You need to show primary evidence you've met in person. Showing some evidence of a bona fide relationship is fine but not one of the requirements for petition approval.

[GJen 9]

Thank you guys so much. I just feel a little overwhelmed

You guys are helping ease some of the stress. I'll be using studying the guides