How long?

[bec_goe 4]

My spouse is in LA and I'm in Sydney.

[Russ&Caro 1,549]

If you click on the link in the header entitled "Immigration Timelines", you can get an idea of some of the averages that are derived from self-reported cases here at Visa Journey.

Click the links within the line:
IR1/CR1 Spouse Visa Timelines [ Stats ] [ Trends ]

Note: There are two phases to an IR1/CR1 application. The first is with USCIS from NOA1 (app received) to NOA2 (app approved). Then you move to the consular phase which runs from the previously mentioned NOA2 to interview date. If your interview is successful, you generally get your visa in 2-4 weeks after the interview. So add about 20 days to the averages you see on these pages.

Despite the disappointment of realizing the process is around a year, I found these statistics comforting. I guess that's the math geek in me.

Edited January 8, 2016 by Russ&Caro

[Avery Cates 1,141]

We have just about finished our paperwork and we are going to get a lawyer to go over everything to make sure everything is complete and accurate. Didn't want to take any chances and want it done ASAP!

Honestly two sets of eyes with you both understanding what's required and looking everything over is better than any lawyer will be in a case where there's no complications and coming from a low fraud, generally easy country.