Pre-thinking the K-1 process

[Mustafa and Jenni 1]

Hi! You can find our mini-story in the new member introduction area, and also on our profile. I also have posts in Asia: South and in Middle East forums since right now we are planning to meet for the first time in India (would love any travel tips--see post in Asia: South) and are contemplating a two-religion marriage (also would love tips--see post in middle east forums).

So since we still haven't met in person, it is not the time yet to start the K-1. However, I am wanting to be as prepared as possible, of course. So is there anything from your experience that you wish you had known ahead of time, wisdom that you would like to pass on to us as we get ready to do this as smoothly as can be done? Is there anything particular I should know about or do before I even do the initial petition, especially things you wish you knew and realized later?

By the way, I am USC and my fiance is from Afghanistan.

Thanks! And God bless to all you courageous people!

[moroccogirlny 100]

Not being negative but here's my 2 cents....get to know your SO really good before even applying. I see that you're meeting in India but is it possible to meet in his home country and meet family? Perhaps make a 2nd trip before even filing? Can you marry rather then file for a fiance visa? If you do file after the 1st trip that could raise a red flag. Also is there a large age gap between you and him? I've been down this road myself.

[I+H 11]

Congratulations! I hope you have a great time on your trip. My situation is relatively similar to yours. I have to say that the only regret I have is that I was not more organized. Make sure you save all boarding passes, hotel receipts, maing sure both of your names on them. Dinner receiptsc, store receipts. These are all the proofs that you met.

As far as the K-1, read all the guides, they are a great resource and ask as many questions as you need in the forum when you are preparing your file. VJ users are also a great resource.

Most of all, have fun on your trip and be safe! Enjoy the time with your BF, it gets harder after you have met to be apart at least it did for us. So take it easy and prepare yourself forthe long road ahead and since your fiance is from a MENA country prepare yourselves for the inconviences that may arise, we didn't and that is another thing I wish I had known before hand.

Good luck and if you need any helpb feel free to message me.