Bonafied Marriage Question:

[weatherbefly 0]

Hey, I'm in a bit of a tricky situation: I have a wife who lives in Canada. Last year we basically eloped and planned on having our "real" marriage ceremony in the states here with my family, and having a reception then up in Canada to celebrate with her family. The issue is, we would like to keep the elope on the "down low" from the family members so no one feels like they've been betrayed or any such thing. I see that some of the documents required to prove we're married require written documents from friends and what not. Only two people know right now and they no longer live close or know about our lives on a day-to-day basis.

What I do have:

• Joint account with her bank in Canada
  
• Providing spousal support paying off her credit card, supplying random spurts money for living, fun money etc.
  
• Documentation (itinerary) of various visits over the past two years.
  
• Tax return was filed jointly this year
  

Any other ideas besides having to break everyone's hearts? I do admit its kind of hard to make everyone happy all at once as both families wanted the ceremony at first... I guess in the midst off all the turmoil we kind of got selfish and just went with it on our own, lol.

Edited January 28, 2011 by weatherbefly

[Done--Really 331]

The letters are not a requirement, and are usually used when your other evidence is weak, which yours isn't. Montreal is known for being a stickler, however, so some other folks who have dealt with them might want to join in the discussion about letters if they have any direct experience.

[Harpa Timsah 13,258]

You don't need everything on their list. You have better evidence than affidavits, like joint taxes and a joint bank account. It seems to me there is no need to break people's hearts and tell them about the marriage since you have decent evidence already. At her interview, the IO may ask if the parents know about the marriage and she will have to explain why they don't. Good luck,

[weatherbefly 0]

Speaking of the interview, I would like to be present there with her... is this allowed?

[OBX 51]

While I did submit affidavits with our I-130 petition many other Canadian/US couples have not and have had no difficulties. IMO your evidence is fine.

As far as "Montreal is known for being a stickler" not sure where that came from. I have rarely read any reviews of filers being asked for any evidence at their interview in Montreal. I took an folder-full of evidence encompassing 10 years to our interview and was not asked for any of it. I would definitely recommend bringing whatever evidence you have once you get to the interview stage but I wouldn't classify Montreal as a "difficult" consulate."

If you are a DCF filer, Montreal is very picky about proof of domicile but if you are currently residing in the US that will not be an issue.

Yes, you can attend the interview with her but it is not required.

Good luck!

Edited January 28, 2011 by OBX

[weatherbefly 0]

Awesome! Thanks everyone for the quick replies... this takes a lot of stress off of the situation. Ill be sure to post more questions soon as we're about to send off the paperwork!

[pushbrk 13,256]

Awesome! Thanks everyone for the quick replies... this takes a lot of stress off of the situation. Ill be sure to post more questions soon as we're about to send off the paperwork!

As you move forward with the process, I suggest you read carefully and interpret literally. So, when you read anything that follows the words, "In addition to the required...." you'll understand those things are NOT required. Cheers.