Using an agency

[JJZen 0]

I was thinking of using an agency. I was looking at Rapid Visa. Was wondering what peoples thoughts on this are? We have a few flags that I am a little concerned with and she has a child that needs to come too. 

 

Flags: 

She was separated for over a year before her divorce. We meet 3 months before the divorce was final. 

 

Our relationship is not very long. When we file it will be less than a year. My logic is we will have another year to make certain. It takes a long time. So, when we finally marry it will have been almost 2 years. 

 

We have met in person once. We have plans to do so again before years end. The second meeting will be with family, but the first was not. 

 

I have a few arrest from my divorce. One restraining order too. The restraining order was thrown out and one of the arrest was also. The second was a felony. I plead to first time offender. They sealed the record. It does not fall under the violent felonies or crimes against children. (Speaking to an expert I was told that the ones thrown out will have no affect) 

 

Not a flag but important- she has a child. Don't know how difficult that will be with this. 

[JasonGG 280]

I think most people will tell you that you can do this on your own.  There are several people recently who used an agency and still had RFE.

 

Use the money for s consultation with an immigration attorney.  They can advise on the arrests.  You will need to include court records and perhaps a statement describing the circumstances surrounding your arrests.

 

Jason

[sunshinelove 52]

I'm assuming you're the USC and she's not? It doesn't sound to me like you'll have any problems. Her divorce is finalized so you two are technically able to marry and you've met in person. Both of those are requirements you meet. I also don't see it being an issue with how long you've been together. I filed for the K1 visa just 6 months after I met my girlfriend (now wife) and we didn't run into any trouble. Just make sure you have a LOT of proof that your relationship is genuine since you've been together such a short time. You shouldn't have any issues with her having a daughter. People do this all the time. It's just a little extra paperwork and money. And lastly, if you're the USC I don't think prior arrests will affect too much but I'm not 100% certain on this. I do know it would matter a lot more if she had a criminal history. 

[sunshinelove 52]

I will agree with the person who replied above me that you can do this on your own with the help of forums like this one and doing a lot of research and reading. That's what I did

[Boiler 46,312]

Many forum members have been screwed over by RapidVisa, look elsewhere.

[JFH 12,191]

Speaking as the wife of a felon, if you've got arrests and such on your record make sure she knows EVERY detail of these. And I don't just mean your side of the story. Dates, court transcripts, jail and prison records, etc. At the interview I was questioned about my husband's record and the CO made a point about wanting to be certain I knew everything. I showed him a copy of my husband's J&S to demonstrate I knew the full story. 

[Alabamak1 688]

IMO I would suggest you to get an immigration attorney to review your case, before you even try to apply for a Visa to bring a fiance if that is the case.  I assuming that you are the petitioner.  Some domestic violence, drugs and alcohol related felonies can prevent you from getting a K1 to be processed or even a spousal visa.