Difference in time from proposal to filing k1

[johnnyv 20]

I plan on proposing to my girlfriend (not saying when because she's on this forum too!) but the time from when we propose to the time we file will be separated by a few months. We're waiting to file, so if 10 months is the time it generally gets approved, she'll just be finishing school. So we'd like to finish school and get the approval around the same time.

My question is regarding crossing the border. Because there is a few months lapse, is it wise to say fiancee or continue as boyfriend/girlfriend until we've filed? I don't know if it would cause confusing or denial by saying fiancee but no K-1 filed yet. Any insight?

[GreatDane 366]

If you plan on moving in 10 months, I would start the paperwork today. The process generally takes 10 months or more!

[N-o-l-a 7,167]

If you plan on moving in 10 months, I would start the paperwork today. The process generally takes 10 months or more!

That and you can drag out the NVC and embassy stage and then wait usually up to 6 months after receiving a visa to enter.

[mai95 4]

I agree file, the time difference will not matter. But file now, otherwise you will be driving yourself crazy when you want to file only to have to sit and wait while your application goes no where.

[Ratty and C 13]

I agree file, the time difference will not matter. But file now, otherwise you will be driving yourself crazy when you want to file only to have to sit and wait while your application goes no where.

PROPOSE First. Then file.

[mai95 4]

PROPOSE First. Then file.

After first thinking about my orginial answer I would say I was wrong. Doesn't both parties have to sign the application? so that would have Propose first then file. Propose online, mail paperwork back and forth and start the paperwork process. Getting in line for the visa is the important thing in my mind since you will be waiting so long anyway. Just read some of the other comments how they are going crazy waiting for the visa. You will understand where I am coming from

[canadian_wife 1,822]

After first thinking about my orginial answer I would say I was wrong. Doesn't both parties have to sign the application? so that would have Propose first then file. Propose online, mail paperwork back and forth and start the paperwork process. Getting in line for the visa is the important thing in my mind since you will be waiting so long anyway. Just read some of the other comments how they are going crazy waiting for the visa. You will understand where I am coming from

Petition.

And a formal proposal is not necessary for the I129F to be sent off.

[johnnyv 20]

I'm sorry, I don't think I made myself completely clear.

Currently she is enrolled in a teachers program for college, which isn't to be finished until June 2014. I know the process will take roughly 10 months and we planned on filing around September of this year, to hopefully be approved about the time she's going to finish school.

I planned on proposing to her in May when she comes down. But I was concerned if that I propose in May, and we file in September, she'll be visiting within that time frame. At that point is it bad to say we're engaged but haven't filed the K-1? Will that make them deny her entry? Does this make sense?

[I & B 273]

One of the things you will need when filing the I-129F is a signed letter from her stating her intent to marry you. So it's hard to see how you could petition first and then propose later on a practical level, even if a proposal is not requirement per se.

[vross 4]

If your girlfriend visits this cite frequently you might as well propose now before she reads it in the post. You gave up enough detail for her to figure it out. Good luck and congratulations. Propose now and file right away

[Darnell 8,478]

Many Canadiens have this issue, and have written about how to overcome it (this border crossing from the North)

so, find their threads, read a bit (I really mean - read a lot)

Good Luck to her !