Should we abandon K-1, get married and try CR-1 instead?

[virgie6810 12]

My fiancé suggested we get married at the Cairo embassy (when open) and file for the CR-1 instead of waiting for our K-1.  He had an interview scheduled for Aug. 18, which was cancelled since the embassy is still closed.  But, if we do that, it would mean starting all over again, right?  We would have to go through the whole process again, For the spouse visa, so it could take another 8 months or more?  I’m thinking we should just wait for the embassy to open, which would be faster than doing the CR-1.  Any opinions?  Thanks in advance.

[Crazy Cat 41,845]

Yes, if you marry, you no longer qualify for a K-1.  You would have to start the CR-1 process from scratch.  Before Covid, the process took 12-18 months from start to visa in hand....on average........

[payxibka 10,045]

14 minutes ago, virgie6810 said:

My fiancé suggested we get married at the Cairo embassy (when open) and file for the CR-1 instead of waiting for our K-1.  He had an interview scheduled for Aug. 18, which was cancelled since the embassy is still closed.  But, if we do that, it would mean starting all over again, right?  We would have to go through the whole process again, For the spouse visa, so it could take another 8 months or more?  I’m thinking we should just wait for the embassy to open, which would be faster than doing the CR-1.  Any opinions?  Thanks in advance.

Yes, you would start over with a new petition and go to the end of the queue.   It probably would take longer than 8 months

[Just Paul 4,595]

2 hours ago, virgie6810 said:

My fiancé suggested we get married at the Cairo embassy

You only get a marriage affidavit - showing your bio data and ability to marry - at the American Citizen Services.  The marriage location is up to you.

 

As others have said you will then be starting at the back of the line  You will also need a certified copy of the marriage certificate to file.