Approval Timing

[Jer50 13]

We are waiting for wife's interview on Ho Chi Minh. Our hope was to be able to leave Vietnam in June 2021. Even with a interview on the next couple of weeks it is looking unlikely as we have much to do prior to leaving. Selling the condo as an example. Our 9 yr old USA Citizen son's school is a priority for us. The school years start/stop are very similar. He ends in Vietnam at the end of May and with some luck was hoping to have him enrolled in an USA school in time for the fall start. We really want to avoid interrupting his school season by uprooting him at midterm. He has been in Asia all his life and we want to give time to transition him to the USA Culture. We have not yet decided where we will live yet as I have just retired.

We understand the time limit is 6 months from the approval to travel to the USA but it will interfere with my sons school year. 

Are there any options we may have to extend the time allowed to enter the USA? I am sure there have been others with a similar situation. I also understand there is a one year limit on the visa application process but not clear of when that begins. Is it the notice date or priority date?

 

Thanks

[SusieQQQ 11,586]

Honestly - as the parent of then elementary school age kids when we immigrated - I would not delay entering because you have an idea of a complete school year each side. Young kids adapt quickly - much quicker than parents think - and the sooner he is in school here the sooner he will adapt to the culture here. Halfway through the school year is not a big deal at that kind of age (even for my 13 year old it was fine). Remember for a kid that age, school is a perfect transition into the US as it is a structured daily routine with built in social opportunities etc. I have even heard a couple families say they regret moving during summer vacation as the kids are at a total loose end, don’t know anyone, no routine to fall into etc. Not the specific advice you were looking for but something to consider?