When to file...?

[* Kristin * 49]

Hi All,

I've been reading timelines, statistics, and have reviewed the general guide... and am really seeking guidance once and for all on when to initially file for our K1 (fiance and I both live in the UK).

We're planning a wedding for August 2011 in California.

Can someone give guidance on when it's best to file?

We've collected all of our documents, etc. and really just need to actually fill out the paperwork and last bits there.

Thanks,

Kristin

[TracyTN 237]

You want to allow yourselves at LEAST 9-10 months to get through the process. There's no harm in filing a bit before that, as it goes. The K1 is valid for 6 months from issue, so that gives you a bit of leeway as well. I'd rather have that visa in hand 3 months early than sit there and sweat whether or not you're going to make it in time for planned nuptials.

*edited for clarity*

Edited June 14, 2010 by TracyTN

[idaho_and_surigao 3]

Hi All,

I've been reading timelines, statistics, and have reviewed the general guide... and am really seeking guidance once and for all on when to initially file for our K1 (fiance and I both live in the UK).

We're planning a wedding for August 2011 in California.

Can someone give guidance on when it's best to file?

We've collected all of our documents, etc. and really just need to actually fill out the paperwork and last bits there.

Thanks,

Kristin

Immediately. remember that the Visa is good for 6 months after its issued. You don't want to take a chance on your wedding. While some cases are complete in 4-5 months most take 7 or 8 (or longer) Check the timelines here to get an idea. I would file ASAP. If you do win the lottery and get it done quick you can always file for an extension....much better than still waiting for approval as your wedding day comes and goes....best of luck!

[DoneWaiting 15]

Besides having 6 months from the issuing date [K-1] you also have 90 days after you enter the US..

[Penguin_ie 5,997]

File now.

[BelleSade 3]

File now, don't make the mistake I did; I didn't know we needed a visa, so I booked everything for December and am now hoping to god we get the K-1 by December.

[* Kristin * 49]

Whew, thank you, everyone!

Time to get on it then...!!

[Aly and Randy 0]

The sooner the better!

Good luck on your visa journey!

[K and L 27]

I wouldn't file later than mid-November (and that's really pushing it), and now is as good as time as any. Most of the UK filers from October '09 (when I filed) interviewed 1-2 months after I did. All in all it took them right around 8 months from application to receipt of the K1, but with the 6 month validity to enter and the 90 day window, you're perfectly fine to do it now. (And personally, as someone whose fiancé is entering almost 2 months after the visa interview: it's been really nice to have these last two months to *actually* plan the wedding.)