Canadian marrying American and living abroad for one year

[theworldawaits 0]

Hey there.. been checking out the forums, great resource! I couldn't find the answers to my specific question, so I'll post them below. =)

A summary:

I'm a Canadian madly in love with my longtime Californian girlfriend. The rough plan is to move there, get engaged and get married within six months. At that point, we will leave the US for one year to serve together abroad in Africa. Can I be in the US legally during the time before our marriage (and still make money)..? I am mostly concerned about the January - July 2010 timeframe... but also wondering about VISA implications if we decide to relocate to the United States after being abroad one year. She is a US citizen.

Some details:

I have a small Canadian freelance business.. with Canadian clients who pay me in Canadian dollars. For all intents and purposes, I will be a Canadian resident taking a sabbatical to work/travel abroad for six months (some of which in the US) while continuing my freelance business remotely (and keeping my clients happy while I'm away!).

As I do research, however, I see that this may be a problem (or maybe it's not?). I've read that I can't do freelance work while in the US even if it's for Canadian clients. I will not be spending more than six months in the United States, and I will not be doing any work for a US employer.

Can anybody direct me to a website or law that specifically stipulates that I cannot do Canadian freelance work while in the US?

Alternatively, is there any scenario where I COULD work for my Canadian clients while in the US? If I am approved for a B-1 or TN visa... can I continue to carry on my work with Canadian clients? I may be able to find a flexible job for the TN (since I qualify).. or participate in a voluntary activity to qualify for a B-1 (I have connections through church).

During these six months, I will continue to have a permanent residence in Canada and can also prove I have sufficient funds to stay for six months. Does this make any difference?

I really want to make sure we are above reproach and doing everything according to the US laws. Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you kindly for providing this great resource. I really hope I'm posting this in the right place!

Warm regards,

[Inky 1,111]

this should be posted in the canadian forum section.

located here.

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.ph...r=all&st=15