Applying for AOS in the USA

[vjb 1]

Hi, i hope you guys could help me with this one... i received a notice from USCIS just yesterday about request for applicant to appear for initial interview on may 25, 2006. Is this the real interview for AOS approval or should i expect another interview date? And there are questions about what to bring, coz i've been here in the US for only about 3 months and we've been married for only 2 months and when it comes to joint account, utility bills and lease agreement it is in my husband's name. What we got so far is medical insurance from TRICARE,my military id card stating im a spouse of an active military personnel so i can get into the base. And i still havent got my EAD approval too. Here's our time line for our application process

2-02-2006 arrived in the US

2-21-2006 got married

3-16-2006 mailed the AOS and EAD to USCIS

3-17-2006 USCIS received the packets

3-21-2006 received NOA for AOS and EAD

3-24-2006 received NOA for biometrics and fingerprinting on april 7, 2006 for my AOS and EAD

4-07-2006 did my biometrics and fingerprinting

4-19-2006 NOA for request for applicant to appear for initial interview

... no news for my ead yet...

The biggest thing that they are going to ask you is whether you are the beneficiary for his military life insurance. Utility bills can easily go in your name too and my husband and I had no problem getting a joint bank account with just my military ID card.

[sj5 4]

This general guides apply to people who are required to file for Adjustment of Status once they enter the US to maintain their legal status. This applies to certain non-immigrant visa holders with a K1, K3, and others. Once you file you will have several options available to track your case.

Please read the Step-by-Step Guide to AOS:

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.ph...mp;page=k1k3aos

**If you live in Texas, Oklahoma or New Mexico special processing requirements may apply to you. Please read this to find out if this applies to you.

Please read the Step-by-Step Guide(s) on getting a Social Security Number and initial or a renewal EAD.

Here are two documents that describe your rights and responsibilities as a Legal US Permanent Resident:

--o http://www.uscis.gov/files/article/B4.pdf

--o http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/men...00045f3d6a1____

Helpful Tips:

Tip #1 (suggested by member: sukie175 and pax):

When you apply to adjust status in the States, assuming you as a K-1 holder apply within one year of the original medical, you need an I-693A. This is USCIS'S VACCINATION SUPPLEMENT. Here's where it gets tricky! Some people have submitted a DS-3025 (obtained overseas at your medical documenting your vaccinations) with their AOS package and have NOT received RFE's. Some HAVE. If you want to be absolutely safe in terms of your medical documentation as a K-1 adjusting status, you should take your DS-3025 to a USCIS-certified civil surgeon and ask them to transfer the information from your DS-3025 to an I-693A. They should do this for a nominal charge. If they try to tell you you need a full medical examination, DO NOT LISTEN. You ONLY need the vaccination supplement. The following memo from the USCIS documents that this completed form will remain valid beyond one year when submitted with most Adjustment of Status applications.

http://www.uscis.gov/files/article/I693MedExt011106.pdf

The civil surgeon should give you an I-693A documenting the fact that your vaccinations are complete (either they were completed when you had your medical or you had them completed stateside). You should submit this with your AOS package.

Tip #2

For non K1/2 visa holders, when applying for your Adjustment of Status, you will be required to obtain an Appendix A. Supplemental Form To I-693 (a.k.a. I-693A) to submit with your package.

The form looks like this:

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dq/pdf/ti-03/appdx-a_693vacc.pdf

You will be asked to bring the vaccination worksheet copy you received from your civil surgeon abroad (DS-3025, http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dq/dsforms/3025.htm ) to your appointment with your civil surgeon in the United States so they can transfer your information onto the new supplemental form and place it in a sealed envelope which you DO NOT open..

To find a civil surgeon in your area please click here:

http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/men...00048f3d6a1RCRD

Prices vary from surgeon to surgeon so you may want to call around and find the cheapest rate. Also, your price may change if you need any updated shots at your appointment (updated shots are required to adjust status). You do not need the whole medical done again though some surgeons may say you do.

From the USCIS website:

“PS: If you were admitted to the United States as a fiance(e) (K-1) or under a K-2 see tip #1."

Tip #3

Our interviewing officer gave us a list of documents needed to prove common residence, I thought it would be handy and maybe it can be pinned. I've typed it out verbatim.

TYPES OF DOCUMENTS NEEDED TO PROVE COMMON RESIDENCE

(The most important requirement of common residnce proof is that both names of husband and wife must be on these documents listed below, i.e. "joint accounts")

1. Home Contract copy; Rental copy; lease copy; or affidavit from person you are living with which explains the living arrangements.

2. Copies of utility bills; gas; light; electric; phone; cable; satellite

3. Joint bank accounts (must be in both names)

4. Credit/Debit Cards (under both names)

5. Insurances:

a. Auto Insurance

b. Life Insurance - submit copy of policy showing beneficiaries

c. Medical - submit copy of medical cards for each person

6. Photos;

a. When you were dating/courtship period (3 each)

b. Marriage photos (3 each)

c. Birthdays, anniversaries; Christmas; holidays; family gatherings, vacation trips; etc...... (3 each)

7. Babies - Bring copies of birth certificates

8. Major Purchases: New Car; Television; Refrigerator; stove; household appliances, etc.

9. Driver's License (both must have same address to be any good).

10. Military Identification

11. Submit a one page letter describing how you met; how long you dated; or how long your lived together before getting married.

(Note: Ensure you bring copies of these documents; not originals)

Tip #4 (from Meauxna)

In the mad visa chase, we often overlook the end goal, Permanent Resident status. This is what allows a non-USC to live, work and travel freely in/out of the US indefinitely. Many times, people don't know what their rights and responsibilities are as PRs, or what documents they'll hold to show that status.

I highly recommend the following links for the foreign AND US partners.

Now That You Are A Permanent Resident

Rules about what you can and can't do as a PR.

http://www.uscis.gov/files/article/B4.pdf

How Do I Remove the Conditions on Permanent Residence Based on Marriage?

If you've been married for less than 2 years when you become a PR.

http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/men...00045f3d6a1____

Welcome to the United States:

A Guide for New Immigrants

OK, seems a bit hokey, especially since you've got a USC partner to show you the ropes, but take a look! There are things in there that I never even considered!

(removed from USCIS website)

hi captain ewok, thank you for these tips but i have some question. I'm here in california sinced March 16, 2007 and now married to my fiance last April 28, 2007. We moved out from our apartment and move to our new home but when he was waiting for his petition for me all the mails from USCIS is going to his office address. Do i really need to send a AR-11(change of address)? Thank you.

Jenny

[Kez/JWolf 6]

hi captain ewok, thank you for these tips but i have some question. I'm here in california sinced March 16, 2007 and now married to my fiance last April 28, 2007. We moved out from our apartment and move to our new home but when he was waiting for his petition for me all the mails from USCIS is going to his office address. Do i really need to send a AR-11(change of address)? Thank you.

Jenny

Jenny you have to file AR-11 with 10 days of moving house.... it makes no difference to your mailing address....

How Do I Report a Change of Address to the USCIS?

Background

All non-U.S. citizens (aliens) who are required to be registered are also required to keep the USCIS informed of their current address. This is particularly important when you have filed an application or petition for a benefit under the Immigration and Nationality Act and expect notification of a decision on that application. In addition, the USCIS may need to contact you to provide other issued documents or return original copies of evidence you submitted.

http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/men...00045f3d6a1RCRD

Kez

[velvetrope27 0]

Hello I married my US citizen fiance within the 90 day limit, we got married on Jan. 14, 2007. Until now he has not send in the papers for my AOS, its been 4 months, thus delaying me from acquiring an SS#, work and travel permit. I have a son in PI that i miss so much and that I want to visit soon. It was a mistake i agreed when he said we should leave my son there last year and will just let him follow. He does not give me money. He used to threaten me if I dont want to take care of his autistic son, then I have no reason to stay here. Then last week he left his email open and I saw an exchange of emails between him and another filipina and he is sending her money. 2 days ago he made me sign a grant deed so he can get a loan agaisnt his house. Then I saw pictures of his first filipina wife, naked and he keeps them. I left his house heartbroken, and I am here in a friend's house. He calls me he tells me he will report me to immigration. Please tell me what to do. I dont deserve this, I tried being a great wife. But I guess the women on the porn movies have bigger breasts, and he prefers to watch them and then ask me to do the same as what he sees in the movies. Pls tell me what to do. Is it best just to go home?

[theg 0]

Quick question how long does it usually take after sending in all the documents that you have ready for the AOS (greencard) to process? Or for you to know when you will get a final answear * this is before you even sent them anything* how long after you send them your things will you know when your case is there..?how long does it usually take them to get each case started? ?

[wthornton2000 0]

Has anybody tried getting an appointment through INFOPASS in the Dallas, TX area? I can't seem to get an appointment to file my AOS. For some reason, we're required to file in person at the office. Any suggestions?

Will

[busycharlie 0]

This general guides apply to people who are required to file for Adjustment of Status once they enter the US to maintain their legal status. This applies to certain non-immigrant visa holders with a K1, K3, and others. Once you file you will have several options available to track your case.

Please read the Step-by-Step Guide to AOS:

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.ph...mp;page=k1k3aos

**If you live in Texas, Oklahoma or New Mexico special processing requirements may apply to you. Please read this to find out if this applies to you.

Please read the Step-by-Step Guide(s) on getting a Social Security Number and initial or a renewal EAD.

Here are two documents that describe your rights and responsibilities as a Legal US Permanent Resident:

--o http://www.uscis.gov/files/article/B4.pdf

--o http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/men...00045f3d6a1____

Helpful Tips:

Tip #1 (suggested by member: sukie175 and pax):

When you apply to adjust status in the States, assuming you as a K-1 holder apply within one year of the original medical, you need an I-693A. This is USCIS'S VACCINATION SUPPLEMENT. Here's where it gets tricky! Some people have submitted a DS-3025 (obtained overseas at your medical documenting your vaccinations) with their AOS package and have NOT received RFE's. Some HAVE. If you want to be absolutely safe in terms of your medical documentation as a K-1 adjusting status, you should take your DS-3025 to a USCIS-certified civil surgeon and ask them to transfer the information from your DS-3025 to an I-693A. They should do this for a nominal charge. If they try to tell you you need a full medical examination, DO NOT LISTEN. You ONLY need the vaccination supplement. The following memo from the USCIS documents that this completed form will remain valid beyond one year when submitted with most Adjustment of Status applications.

http://www.uscis.gov/files/article/I693MedExt011106.pdf

The civil surgeon should give you an I-693A documenting the fact that your vaccinations are complete (either they were completed when you had your medical or you had them completed stateside). You should submit this with your AOS package.

Tip #2

For non K1/2 visa holders, when applying for your Adjustment of Status, you will be required to obtain an Appendix A. Supplemental Form To I-693 (a.k.a. I-693A) to submit with your package.

The form looks like this:

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dq/pdf/ti-03/appdx-a_693vacc.pdf

You will be asked to bring the vaccination worksheet copy you received from your civil surgeon abroad (DS-3025, http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dq/dsforms/3025.htm ) to your appointment with your civil surgeon in the United States so they can transfer your information onto the new supplemental form and place it in a sealed envelope which you DO NOT open..

To find a civil surgeon in your area please click here:

http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/men...00048f3d6a1RCRD

Prices vary from surgeon to surgeon so you may want to call around and find the cheapest rate. Also, your price may change if you need any updated shots at your appointment (updated shots are required to adjust status). You do not need the whole medical done again though some surgeons may say you do.

From the USCIS website:

"PS: If you were admitted to the United States as a fiance(e) (K-1) or under a K-2 see tip #1."

Tip #3

Our interviewing officer gave us a list of documents needed to prove common residence, I thought it would be handy and maybe it can be pinned. I've typed it out verbatim.

TYPES OF DOCUMENTS NEEDED TO PROVE COMMON RESIDENCE

(The most important requirement of common residnce proof is that both names of husband and wife must be on these documents listed below, i.e. "joint accounts")

1. Home Contract copy; Rental copy; lease copy; or affidavit from person you are living with which explains the living arrangements.

2. Copies of utility bills; gas; light; electric; phone; cable; satellite

3. Joint bank accounts (must be in both names)

4. Credit/Debit Cards (under both names)

5. Insurances:

a. Auto Insurance

b. Life Insurance - submit copy of policy showing beneficiaries

c. Medical - submit copy of medical cards for each person

6. Photos;

a. When you were dating/courtship period (3 each)

b. Marriage photos (3 each)

c. Birthdays, anniversaries; Christmas; holidays; family gatherings, vacation trips; etc...... (3 each)

7. Babies - Bring copies of birth certificates

8. Major Purchases: New Car; Television; Refrigerator; stove; household appliances, etc.

9. Driver's License (both must have same address to be any good).

10. Military Identification

11. Submit a one page letter describing how you met; how long you dated; or how long your lived together before getting married.

(Note: Ensure you bring copies of these documents; not originals)

Tip #4 (from Meauxna)

In the mad visa chase, we often overlook the end goal, Permanent Resident status. This is what allows a non-USC to live, work and travel freely in/out of the US indefinitely. Many times, people don't know what their rights and responsibilities are as PRs, or what documents they'll hold to show that status.

I highly recommend the following links for the foreign AND US partners.

Now That You Are A Permanent Resident

Rules about what you can and can't do as a PR.

http://www.uscis.gov/files/article/B4.pdf

How Do I Remove the Conditions on Permanent Residence Based on Marriage?

If you've been married for less than 2 years when you become a PR.

http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/men...00045f3d6a1____

Welcome to the United States:

A Guide for New Immigrants

OK, seems a bit hokey, especially since you've got a USC partner to show you the ropes, but take a look! There are things in there that I never even considered!

(removed from USCIS website)

Since the fiancee fills out the other AOS forms in their married name should they fill out the I693A in their married name also? Is there a need to bring the marriage certificate to the doctors office?

Thanks,

Charlie

Edited June 12, 2007 by busycharlie

[Cécy 44]

TB Skin test

It seems that there is a new rule that the USCIS transmitted to civil surgeons (or so they told me) you can't have the TB test read at the local health department as it seems that they don't check your ID.

So if you want/need to have it done, get it done at a doctor or the CS, that way you won't need to do it twice.

[j7m7m7 0]

This general guides apply to people who are required to file for Adjustment of Status once they enter the US to maintain their legal status. This applies to certain non-immigrant visa holders with a K1, K3, and others. Once you file you will have several options available to track your case.

Please read the Step-by-Step Guide to AOS:

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.ph...mp;page=k1k3aos

**If you live in Texas, Oklahoma or New Mexico special processing requirements may apply to you. Please read this to find out if this applies to you.

Please read the Step-by-Step Guide(s) on getting a Social Security Number and initial or a renewal EAD.

Here are two documents that describe your rights and responsibilities as a Legal US Permanent Resident:

--o http://www.uscis.gov/files/article/B4.pdf

--o http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/men...00045f3d6a1____

Helpful Tips:

Tip #1 (suggested by member: sukie175 and pax):

When you apply to adjust status in the States, assuming you as a K-1 holder apply within one year of the original medical, you need an I-693A. This is USCIS'S VACCINATION SUPPLEMENT. Here's where it gets tricky! Some people have submitted a DS-3025 (obtained overseas at your medical documenting your vaccinations) with their AOS package and have NOT received RFE's. Some HAVE. If you want to be absolutely safe in terms of your medical documentation as a K-1 adjusting status, you should take your DS-3025 to a USCIS-certified civil surgeon and ask them to transfer the information from your DS-3025 to an I-693A. They should do this for a nominal charge. If they try to tell you you need a full medical examination, DO NOT LISTEN. You ONLY need the vaccination supplement. The following memo from the USCIS documents that this completed form will remain valid beyond one year when submitted with most Adjustment of Status applications.

http://www.uscis.gov/files/article/I693MedExt011106.pdf

The civil surgeon should give you an I-693A documenting the fact that your vaccinations are complete (either they were completed when you had your medical or you had them completed stateside). You should submit this with your AOS package.

Tip #2

For non K1/2 visa holders, when applying for your Adjustment of Status, you will be required to obtain an Appendix A. Supplemental Form To I-693 (a.k.a. I-693A) to submit with your package.

The form looks like this:

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dq/pdf/ti-03/appdx-a_693vacc.pdf

You will be asked to bring the vaccination worksheet copy you received from your civil surgeon abroad (DS-3025, http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dq/dsforms/3025.htm ) to your appointment with your civil surgeon in the United States so they can transfer your information onto the new supplemental form and place it in a sealed envelope which you DO NOT open..

To find a civil surgeon in your area please click here:

http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/men...00048f3d6a1RCRD

Prices vary from surgeon to surgeon so you may want to call around and find the cheapest rate. Also, your price may change if you need any updated shots at your appointment (updated shots are required to adjust status). You do not need the whole medical done again though some surgeons may say you do.

From the USCIS website:

“PS: If you were admitted to the United States as a fiance(e) (K-1) or under a K-2 see tip #1."

Tip #3

Our interviewing officer gave us a list of documents needed to prove common residence, I thought it would be handy and maybe it can be pinned. I've typed it out verbatim.

TYPES OF DOCUMENTS NEEDED TO PROVE COMMON RESIDENCE

(The most important requirement of common residnce proof is that both names of husband and wife must be on these documents listed below, i.e. "joint accounts")

1. Home Contract copy; Rental copy; lease copy; or affidavit from person you are living with which explains the living arrangements.

2. Copies of utility bills; gas; light; electric; phone; cable; satellite

3. Joint bank accounts (must be in both names)

4. Credit/Debit Cards (under both names)

5. Insurances:

a. Auto Insurance

b. Life Insurance - submit copy of policy showing beneficiaries

c. Medical - submit copy of medical cards for each person

6. Photos;

a. When you were dating/courtship period (3 each)

b. Marriage photos (3 each)

c. Birthdays, anniversaries; Christmas; holidays; family gatherings, vacation trips; etc...... (3 each)

7. Babies - Bring copies of birth certificates

8. Major Purchases: New Car; Television; Refrigerator; stove; household appliances, etc.

9. Driver's License (both must have same address to be any good).

10. Military Identification

11. Submit a one page letter describing how you met; how long you dated; or how long your lived together before getting married.

(Note: Ensure you bring copies of these documents; not originals)

Tip #4 (from Meauxna)

In the mad visa chase, we often overlook the end goal, Permanent Resident status. This is what allows a non-USC to live, work and travel freely in/out of the US indefinitely. Many times, people don't know what their rights and responsibilities are as PRs, or what documents they'll hold to show that status.

I highly recommend the following links for the foreign AND US partners.

Now That You Are A Permanent Resident

Rules about what you can and can't do as a PR.

http://www.uscis.gov/files/article/B4.pdf

How Do I Remove the Conditions on Permanent Residence Based on Marriage?

If you've been married for less than 2 years when you become a PR.

http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/men...00045f3d6a1____

Welcome to the United States:

A Guide for New Immigrants

OK, seems a bit hokey, especially since you've got a USC partner to show you the ropes, but take a look! There are things in there that I never even considered!

(removed from USCIS website)

Hi Captain Ewok,

I came in thru K-1 Fiance visa-- and now assembling our AOS Packet. Just to clear off my mind I just wanted to ask do we really need to include I-130? We're residing here in Pennsylvania and my husband and I have hearing a lot of different answers from USCIS alone. Please help us?

Thank you,

j7m7m7

[Kez/JWolf 6]

If you entered the US on a K1 visa and you got married within the 90 days allowed then you do not have to file form I-130 with your AOS....

Kez

[tuangkgl 0]

hi

[Cécy 44]

If you are the foreign person and a woman, and if you applied for the GC with your married name, take your marriage certificate with you to your biometrics appointment (unless of course you have photo ID with your married name).

It's not always needed, but it's better than having to drive all the way back home for it.

I read on a post that a person had to have her husband bring it because she couldn't go through to do the biometric until she had it.

I took mine to my appointment and the lady at the welcome desk said yes, she needed to take it since my married name was not on my ID.

[vrr106 0]

Question about the complete 485 package -

If I am submitting 485, 325A, 864, 765 and 131 together, do I need 2 photographs or 6? (6 because 2 for 485, 2 for 765, 2 for 131)

[6aug2007 0]

Any kind soul, please suggest what can I do?

I-485, 765 & 131 sent via Fedex on 3 Aug, and received at Chicago lockbox by John Chyra on 6 Aug.

My check hasn't been cashed yet and nothing received from USCIS in mail. I called the customer service and the agent advised me to see the immigration officer at the local office.

The officer at Charlotte office told me that they are backlogged at the service centers, and have detailed three of their own staff to help the service centers. I mentioned that many applicants who have filed after me have received their NOAs, and she said that my file might be at the desk of someone who is more backlogged than other (!!!) , though the cases are processed in the order they are received.

When I asked that the USCIS website mentions the complete processing of applications received at the Lockbox until the third week of August, she said, "The information on website is not that accurate" (???!!) and advised me that I can do nothing except to wait.

Has someone else been in a similar situation, and knows a better way to deal with it? I am worried that they haven't even opened my packet yet.

Thanks

[omeysgirl 0]

Hi there,

I'm kind of confused. I got here on my K1 Visa. After my fiance and I are getting married we file for AOS. We live in Delaware, does that mean we have to send all papers to Chicago?? I hope I understood it right?

Do we have to send in a new bankletter with the forms or can we just use the one from the K1 process?

I hope someone can help me...

Thanks

Nina

Good info