Voting Record

[MattCali 0]

Hi guys, how do I show my voting record to indicate that I have only been living abroad temporarily? I sent an absentee ballot for the 2008 year. Also, when filing the I-130 petition, do I need to bring a copy of my birth certificate, or is it enough to just bring my passport to prove I'm a US Citizen?

[TOM&Riz 4]

Hi guys, how do I show my voting record to indicate that I have only been living abroad temporarily? I sent an absentee ballot for the 2008 year. Also, when filing the I-130 petition, do I need to bring a copy of my birth certificate, or is it enough to just bring my passport to prove I'm a US Citizen?

You don't and won't have a "voting record" a current voters registration card is sufficient,

What Documents Do You Need to Show That You Are a U.S. Citizen?

1. If you were born in the United States, a copy of your birth certificate, issued by a civil registrar, vital statistics office, or other civil authority.

2. A copy of your naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship issued by USCIS or the former INS.

3. A copy of Form FS-240, Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States, issued by a U.S. Embassy or consulate

4. A copy of your unexpired U.S. passport; or

5. An original statement from a U.S. consular officer verifying that you are a U.S. citizen with a valid passport.

6. If you do not have any of the above documents and you were born in the United States, see instructions under Page 3, "What If a Document Is Not Available?"

source: Instructions for I-130, Petition for Alien Relative

[Mithmeoi 29]

Hi guys, how do I show my voting record to indicate that I have only been living abroad temporarily? I sent an absentee ballot for the 2008 year. Also, when filing the I-130 petition, do I need to bring a copy of my birth certificate, or is it enough to just bring my passport to prove I'm a US Citizen?

All you need is your passport. That's proof enough you are a citizen since they only issue them TO US citizens. Not sure why you would want to prove your voting record, they only notice that you register. If you need more proof that you are re-establishing yourself you can show copies of current statements from any bank accounts that you have active in the states, an up to date US driver's license, or a copy of your voter registry card.

[MattCali 0]

Ah, thanks. I have a my driver's license, 2 different bank accounts I've kept open, the same address I've had all my life, and I recently renewed my voter's registration and voted. Will that be enough to show I was only here temporarily and that I kept my residence in the US?

[Mithmeoi 29]

I would imagine so. Check out this thread http://www.visajourney.com/forums/topic/239678-sample-letter-for-explaining-domicile-in-us/

I found it useful, maybe it will help you too.

Edited July 9, 2010 by Mithmeoi