Visiting for holidays after NOA2

[EmmaLi 0]

Hello everyone. My fiance and I submitted our i 129f and received the NOA1 and NOA2. Before we received the NOA2 he had booked a vacation to come visit the USA for 3 weeks for Christmas (on a B2 visa). Since we received the NOA2 before we expected it, we were wondering what the border patrol experience will be like? Specifically What should he say to the customs workers when he arrives? He will bring his return flight ticket, a letter from his boss, pay stubs, a letter from his landlord and the copies of the NOA1 and 2. Any help with what to say to the border patrol workers would be appreciated. We want to be honest, we were wondering if he should come right out and say he is visiting his fiance or not? Thank you!

[Pitaya 2,577]

Welcome to the forum.

Honesty is always the best policy. Check out the pinned thread at the top of the forum page, Yes You Can Visit, for details and more info.

Edited November 27, 2013 by A&B

[SparklePony 238]

Honesty is always the best policy. Check out the pinned thread at the top of the forum page, Yes You Can Visit, for details and more info.

This, exactly.

[djv-tco 29]

Like what A&B said, honesty is always the best policy.

I visited my fiancée earlier this month after we received our NOA1. We received our NOA2 while I was in the states with her. I am Canadian and a Nexus Pass holder so my crossings are always quick and painless. Regardless of this, I always come prepared with our most current case information. For my November trip, I brought the complete copy of our I-129F package along with NOA1, pay stubs, apartment lease, car loan, and utility bills. I will be visiting her again for Christmas holidays for almost two weeks so I will be bringing the same package plus our NOA2, wedding plans, and further proof of ongoing relationship. Some might call this overkill but it's best to have more than enough proof of ties than otherwise.

My advice, bring proof of ties with you and be honest in answering the questions that is being asked. Make sure you factor in time for possible interview with a CBP officer. For example, When flying out of Canada to the US, it's normally recommended to be at the airport 2 hours before your flight. I would add another hour to this, meaning I'm at the airport at least 3 hours before my flight in case of security and customs delays.

Good luck to you and your fiancé!

[Al422 221]

You did not state which country your fiance is from, but the general rule is that if he or she can legally come here as a tourist, that fact is not altered by the NOA2. Just be prepared to show documents and answer questions if circuits get crossed somehow.