March 2015 K-1 Filers

[Amhara 460]

Has anyone figured out what was the criteria for why TSC transferred some files to other service centers?

I don't think there was any real criteria. I think there were a few cases that still got assigned to TSC after the March announcement, but I think that USCIS eventually transferred all incoming K-1 cases were forwarded to CSC. I was thinking their initial intent was just to reduce the number of petitions at TSC, or some new petitions just fell through and were assigned to CSC, but at this point, I'm rather certain that all new cases go to CSC.

I just looked at your timeline. Dang, you were so close to that transfer date.

[nancyandissam 13]

Hi everyone! I know it's been a long time since I've been here, just so busy with everything! We moved to the other side of the state for my new job and have been organizing everything it takes FOREVER!

Congratulations everyone, so much good news here! And good luck to those of you getting ready for interviews!

We sent in the AOS packet yesterday and are now wading through the conflicting information about how to get Issam his driver's license here in Florida. He already has his license for Morocco, but it seems he has to take the written and driving test here, from what I'm reading, but he can't do that until we get the work authorization. Which is probably good, because he really needs to improve his English, LOL. He just wants to make sure he gets a job ASAP, not one to sit around, that one!

The AOS packet wasn't too bad to assemble, hopefully we did it correctly - I almost made a mistake and sent only 985 instead of the 985 PLUS the 85 for the Biometrics - so it was good that I'm uber type A and check EVERYTHING multiple times.

A side note, the transition period has been a little difficult for Issam since our cultures are so different. We've had some very heated conversations and I have to keep reminding myself to be patient because it's asking a lot of someone to leave their family, job, country, etc. to come to a place that is completely different. He Skypes and uses Whatsapp to keep in contact and sometimes it seems too much and I get snippy about it - but again, I have to remind myself to be patient and that it's only been 6 weeks. I'm a little worried when I go back to teaching in 3 weeks how he's going to deal with being home alone without a job, but he's pretty resourceful, so hopefully he'll get out a bit and explore. We have a fitness center and pool here at the apartment complex, so that's a plus.

Anyway, good luck to those of you getting ready for interviews and congratulations again to everyone on their good news and moving forward!!!! <3

[Amhara 460]

...now wading through the conflicting information about how to get Issam his driver's license here in Florida. He already has his license for Morocco, but it seems he has to take the written and driving test here, from what I'm reading, but he can't do that until we get the work authorization.

That seems interesting to me. I know you're in a different state that me, but when I looked into it, I learned in Texas, we can get him an identity card as long as the DMV can verify his I-94. I was planning on waiting on when he felt comfortable to take his driving test to get his driver's license and figured that may be some time, but I didn't think it was dependent on his EAD. I will need to make sure I read the rules over again for my state to make sure! Good to know!

[nancyandissam 13]

Hi Amhara,

It's so confusing, I was looking all over the place and getting different answers but the best I could find out from the DMV was that he needed to have several forms of ID and proofs of residence and legal status:

http://www.gathergoget.com/checklist/checklist.aspx

I found a forum on here for the process and it was also really helpful!

[Amhara 460]

Hi Amhara,

It's so confusing, I was looking all over the place and getting different answers but the best I could find out from the DMV was that he needed to have several forms of ID and proofs of residence and legal status:

http://www.gathergoget.com/checklist/checklist.aspx

I found a forum on here for the process and it was also really helpful!

This site is saying that Florida requires the same thing as Texas does, so you don't need to wait for his EAD. It looks like it's to establish identification - not immigration status as an immigrant and nonimmigrant can get a drivers license according to this site.

If you take his passport with his visa and POE stamp you should be good. I would bring along a copy of the I-94 as they can accept this too. From my research, Texas doesn't need a copy of the I-94; they verify it electronically. Florida may do that also. I know there are instructions on how long to wait if Texas can't verify the I-94 electronically. They try when you are there, and it should take seconds, but they try another two or three times in later days in case the data isn't loaded on the whatever database.

[nancyandissam 13]

Doesn't it say that in the primary identification section he needs either 1) Green Card, 2) I-551 stamp in passport or on I-94 3) Immigration judge's order for asylum, 4) I-797 stating that he is granted asylum or 5) I-797 with refugee status?

I have to look for that other forum, I thought someone on there said don't even bother going to the DMV in Florida until you have the EAD. Ugh, so confusing!!! hahaha

[Amhara 460]

Doesn't it say that in the primary identification section he needs either 1) Green Card, 2) I-551 stamp in passport or on I-94 3) Immigration judge's order for asylum, 4) I-797 stating that he is granted asylum or 5) I-797 with refugee status?

Yes, you are right. But notice none of those are EAD (Form I-766). You won't get the green card for another year. Asylum and refugee don't apply.

The I-551 is the green card, but the temporary I-551 is a stamp you either got by CBP, or you should be able to get one at a USCIS center through InfoPass; but forget that. I just mentioned that for reference. I don't think anyone here needs a temporary I-551.

I think you'll need to select "Nonimmigrant" under that site's drop down menu. There, yes, you can give EAD as proof, but also you can give, "Proof of nonimmigrant classification provided by United States Department of Homeland Security (Form I-94, not expired, with required supporting attachment(s). If in doubt regarding required documents, please bring all of your US BCIS documentation with you.). I-94s must be accompanied by a valid Passport with a date of entry stamp. Certain classifications require additional documentation. Some examples are:" ...blah, blah, blah - you don't need that part.

They may consider him nonimmigrant at this point, but you are good. He should be able to get the FL drivers license now and not wait the 2.5 month wait time for EAD.

[thespoons 33]

TheSpoons,

I am going to start the process for AOS, the thing is im still waiting for our marriage certificate. After that, i will gather all the forms and requirements.

Am kinda confused about the aos and the documents we need to gather. Did you use any guide aside from the one here on vj?

Also, how long have you been waiting for the certified copy of your marriage certificate?

Thanks in advance!

[Farrieress 18]

Police certificate delivered yesterday and the visa was issued today.

Now I wonder when it will be ready for pick up. We're so happy. Everything is working out for us. Even this delay for the Canadian police certificate was a blessing as he could help his dad to finish gathering hay.

I think now we must track on ustraveldocs.com.

[chew4150 0]

Hello everyone. I am also a March filer, I got the receipt on the 23rd of March. I have been reading a lot of different posts the last few days, and unfortunately my packet is going through the Texas center. Hope it all goes quickly/smoothly.

[Tony and Daisy 22]

Hi T&D

I think I remember that you said you were going to travel through Guam and then onto Honolulu. Many make that same trip and I have documented a how to guide because of the short window to go through immigration and when you arrive in Honolulu, to help others with what that is like. If you find the time can you explain any problems, recommendations or things to avoid. It surely would help others going with the same itinerary. And may I have your permission to use your recommendations? Thanks

I'll shoot you a PM with the details.

Hi everyone! I know it's been a long time since I've been here, just so busy with everything! We moved to the other side of the state for my new job and have been organizing everything it takes FOREVER!

Congratulations everyone, so much good news here! And good luck to those of you getting ready for interviews!

We sent in the AOS packet yesterday and are now wading through the conflicting information about how to get Issam his driver's license here in Florida. He already has his license for Morocco, but it seems he has to take the written and driving test here, from what I'm reading, but he can't do that until we get the work authorization. Which is probably good, because he really needs to improve his English, LOL. He just wants to make sure he gets a job ASAP, not one to sit around, that one!

The AOS packet wasn't too bad to assemble, hopefully we did it correctly - I almost made a mistake and sent only 985 instead of the 985 PLUS the 85 for the Biometrics - so it was good that I'm uber type A and check EVERYTHING multiple times.

A side note, the transition period has been a little difficult for Issam since our cultures are so different. We've had some very heated conversations and I have to keep reminding myself to be patient because it's asking a lot of someone to leave their family, job, country, etc. to come to a place that is completely different. He Skypes and uses Whatsapp to keep in contact and sometimes it seems too much and I get snippy about it - but again, I have to remind myself to be patient and that it's only been 6 weeks. I'm a little worried when I go back to teaching in 3 weeks how he's going to deal with being home alone without a job, but he's pretty resourceful, so hopefully he'll get out a bit and explore. We have a fitness center and pool here at the apartment complex, so that's a plus.

Anyway, good luck to those of you getting ready for interviews and congratulations again to everyone on their good news and moving forward!!!! <3

He can use his Moroccan Drivers License if you are willing to send his drivers license to a family member there and have them get an International Drivers Permit issued and sent back to you. It can be made at the Touring Club of Morocco located in 3, avenue Armee Royale in Casablanca.

Police certificate delivered yesterday and the visa was issued today.

Now I wonder when it will be ready for pick up. We're so happy. Everything is working out for us. Even this delay for the Canadian police certificate was a blessing as he could help his dad to finish gathering hay.

I think now we must track on ustraveldocs.com.

WOOHOO!!!!! Congrats!!!!

If it is "Issued" on CEAC and you chose to pick up at MOA then it should be ready tomorrow.

[Sunya and Tim 55]

Police certificate delivered yesterday and the visa was issued today.

Now I wonder when it will be ready for pick up. We're so happy. Everything is working out for us. Even this delay for the Canadian police certificate was a blessing as he could help his dad to finish gathering hay.

I think now we must track on ustraveldocs.com.

Congrats!!!!

[Sunya and Tim 55]

Tim had his medical today. For the most part it was fine but the doctor wants more information on a couple of issues. He suffered mild depressions 3 years ago and the letter from the doctor regarding this and stating he was not a harm to himself or others was not enough. There is a list if questions that they need answered. He is going to get me the list so I can post it. Also he has some mobility issues with his shoulder since the tetanus shot that the doctors have been trying to fix. During the exam she noticed this and wants more detail on the issue and treatment. She said once he has this he is good and passed. Poor guy, I thought we were all good with the info I sent but now more stuff.

Hope everyone is doing well. I am going to post this in the UK filers group so sorry for the repeat for some.

Edited July 31, 2015 by Sunya and Tim

[stephelliott 5]

Hi all... I am the USC and my fiance will be going to the Sydney consulate. Any one in this thread have any recent experience with Australian interviews? I am looking for some tips and would like to hear about others experiences...

I have been wondering how the wait time is going at the moment for Sydney. Could you please share when your case left NVC, when you heard from the Consulate, and what date they scheduled your interview for? Also did you get your medical done before or after you were scheduled a interview? Thank you!

I started a thread specific to recent Australian embassy encounters.. please check it out.. THANKS!

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/topic/559254-recent-interview-dates-april/

Edited July 31, 2015 by stephelliott

[AllanGrace 9]

Thespoons,

Hello, I had my wedding in July 17. after 10 days it require me in CA to apply for the marriage certificate. I downloaded the form online and filled it up. Mailed it to them on 7/29/15. They said it takes 3 to 5 days to process so hopefully I can get it by next week. At the same time I am starting to fill up all the forms for AOS application while waiting for the marriage cert. What are you confused of the documents for filing the AOS? I think the one more confusing is the I-864 application which is the Affidafit of support. I have a question on Part 3. Information on immigrants you are petitioning. Question no 1. I am sponsoring the principal immigrant named in part 2 so my answer is YES. after that Family Member from 1 to 5 are all N/A. then question no 7. Enter the total number of immigrants you are sponsoring on this form from Items 1 through 6 so my answer is 0 right? Then on Part 5. Sponsor's household size. I put a 1 on Question no. 2 which is myself and 1 on no Question no 3 which is "If you are currently married, enter "1" for your spouse" so on Question no 8. "Add together lines 1-7 and enter the number here. Household size: " I put 2 right? I don't know if you are already on that part.

Here are my guides for the AOS application:

1. By Mrs Presson - http://www.mrspresson.com/immigration/adjustment-of-status-aos-k1-visa/

2. By USCIS - http://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/files/form/i-485instr.pdf

3. By Dennyberg - http://dennyeyberg.wix.com/filipino-am-visa#!blank/c1mh6

4. By VisaJourney - http://www.visajourney.com/content/k1k3aos

Please let me know if you have other sources too ok.

Thank you too.