Transfer K1 Visa Case

[Boffola 0]

Hello! I would like to ask a question. Is it wise to work in a different country (obtain a working visa) and have your case transferred there? Case is currently at NVC and my home country is processing very limited K1 visa and has a lot of backlogs. Please let me know your thoughts. Thanks! 

[Chancy 6,243]

7 hours ago, Boffola said:

Is it wise to work in a different country (obtain a working visa) and have your case transferred there?

 

Depends on the case backlog of the consulates in the countries involved, and also on how quickly you will be able to gain legal residence at the other country.  What's your home country and the country you're considering for transfer?

 

[Boffola 0]

Hi Chancy! Thanks for your reply.

 

Home country: Philippines

Countries where I consider to transfer my case: Dubai or Japan

[Chancy 6,243]

10 hours ago, Boffola said:

Home country: Philippines

Countries where I consider to transfer my case: Dubai or Japan

 

If the I-129F was approved in or before March 2020 -- I suggest waiting it out in the Philippines.  The US embassy seems to be working through the K1 cases in that group now.

 

If NOA2 after March 2020 AND you can get a work permit in Japan within the next month or two AND you will be able to leave the job in less than a year without major penalty -- it would be a good idea to try for case transfer to Tokyo.  Note that the acceptance of the transfer is entirely at the discretion of the embassy in Tokyo and that you may only request for transfer when you have proof of legal residence in Japan.

 

I would not recommend trying for a transfer to Abu Dhabi as it seems they also have a big backlog of visa cases waiting for interview.

 

Lastly, have you considered getting married and starting the CR1 spouse visa process instead?  That route might turn out to be simpler and faster than pursuing a work visa somewhere just to be eligible for K1 case transfer.

 

[Boffola 0]

With regard to proof of legal residence in Japan, would a working visa be accepted? 

[Chancy 6,243]

1 hour ago, Boffola said:

With regard to proof of legal residence in Japan, would a working visa be accepted? 

 

It will be up to the embassy in Tokyo.  It's possible that they will require Japanese residence card.  Contact the IV unit at the embassy to confirm.