Can I (US Citizen) sponsor my foreign wife from abroad?

[Brand83 10]

I am American and my wife in South African. We both are living in South Africa and plan on moving to America. Can I start the sponsorship process while we're both living in South Africa, or do I need to be in the US? 

 

Additional information: If I can do it from South Africa, do I need to show proof that I am a resident in South Africa? My temporary resident's/spousal visa in South Africa is being renewed - government takes notoriously long with this so the existing one has already expired while I'm waiting on the new South African visa, so I don't think I could use that as proof. 

 

Thank you for your help.

[payxibka 10,047]

3 minutes ago, Brand83 said:

I am American and my wife in South African. We both are living in South Africa and plan on moving to America. Can I start the sponsorship process while we're both living in South Africa, or do I need to be in the US? 

 

Additional information: If I can do it from South Africa, do I need to show proof that I am a resident in South Africa? My temporary resident's/spousal visa in South Africa is being renewed - government takes notoriously long with this so the existing one has already expired while I'm waiting on the new South African visa, so I don't think I could use that as proof. 

 

Thank you for your help.

You can start the petition from anywhere.   Sponsorship comes much later after the petition is approved.   

 

When the time comes for Sponsorship you will need to demonstrate US domicile and sufficient continuing income.

[aaron2020 11,651]

Hi,

 

You can start the spousal visa process while in SA by filing the I-130 petition.  You do not need to show SA residency.  When it comes time for your spouse to apply for an immigration visa at the NVC, you will need to show a US domicile or evidence of your intent to reestablish one.  

Read and study the Guides on VJ.  

Best of luck. 

[Just Paul 4,595]

File by mail or online.  Follow the guides here and prepare for the NVC stage in 4 to 12 months!