Hi all!

[kristy_sea 0]

I'm a Canadian who has recently gotten engaged to an American. He had been living here, but has now returned to the states for work. We're hoping that I might join him in January without an immediate wedding. (we're not planning one until at least summer 2010) And I'm here trying to understand the visa process and our options.

I figure that this must be a fairly common occurrence, since planning a wedding in the 90 days allotted by the k-1 visa (if I'm reading it correctly and that is the time frame?) is not really possible.

I've been trying to search through the forum and find answers, but the set up seems geared towards those who already know which visa they need and/or will be living apart until the marriage. If anyone has any suggestions of where to start reading, and learning; I'd be really grateful for the help!

Other possibly important details:

I need to be able to come home to Canada regularly, I do not need to work, and I am interested in taking a course at an American University eventually which I could do sooner rather than later if it would uncomplicate the process. (student visa?)

Should I give up and hire a lawyer?

[kristy_sea 0]

(I should probably add that I did read the FAQ's and K1/k-3 process, I'm just having trouble figuring out if what we'd like to do is even possible so I can figure out what step 1 would be.)

[Chica Yeyé 41]

Welcome to VJ Kristy. Indeed, you want to read the guides... and drop by the canada forum, a lot of really cool and helpful peepz there

[shefellfromheaven 18]

Welcome to Vj , Kristy

Its a difficult decision to make but take your time,look at the options you have and make up your mind. With a K-1 visa ( fiancee visa) you must marry within 90 days and change your status. Its possible to marry within that time frame , many have done it I( we did it too).

you can choose K-3 or CR1 , if you are already married, at this stage , i presume K-1 is the best for you, you are just engaged. You can have a small wedding during the 90 days frame and then go for a ceremony in summer...

There are many advantages to have a P over to a student visa. Anyway the decision is yours.

Good luck

Have a blessed day

Edited October 5, 2009 by shefellfromheaven

[kristy_sea 0]

Thanks for the suggestions and welcomes! I'm esp. glad to hear from someone who has completed the process, having a small ceremony first and a traditional style wedding in the summer is a great idea!

Did you feel completely overwhelmed and intimidated by the process at the beginning? So far the more I read, the more I realize how lost and clueless I am about this!

[shefellfromheaven 18]

Ooh yes, it was hard, sometimes everything seemed to be at a standstill but we pressed on. We got married in May we are yet to do the other ceremonial wedding back in my home country. so far so good , i thank God and my husband for those difficult moments.

If you choose to go for K -1 , then read the K -1 section , and start collecting all the requirements. There is a checklist that will guide you. Take a step at a time and be strong in your faith in God - all will be well.

Have a Blessed day

Edited October 5, 2009 by shefellfromheaven

[mike&jie 0]

welcome to vj , and good luck to you