Unemployed after I-129F approval

[Twililord 4]

Hello, I am in a weird situation and would like some guidance on what the best way forward for me is. I am the petitioner and my July 18 petition was approved yesterday. I am currently residing abroad in my fiancée's country as I didn't want to be separated (have been abroad for over a year now). Unfortunately, I was laid off from my remote US job last month. I am receiving severance and am eligible to file for unemployment benefits. I understand it will probably be several months until the interview can be scheduled. I believe the Belgrade embassy isn't a busy or high-risk one so maybe it'll be faster.

 

Anyway, what I'm uncertain of is the I-134 form stuff. I have been considering applying for jobs here in Serbia just so I don't have to touch my savings but from what I understand, income earned here wouldn't count as proper income on the I-134 as it wouldn't be US-sourced. So I am wondering if I should just remain unemployed and apply for the benefits once my severance ends next month? Only problem is I'm not sure when exactly I would be able to move and start employment for the US company..

 

Would me working in Serbia be suspicious to the officer in the interview? If I remain unemployed, I have enough assets and savings, my W2s/tax returns are stable and high income, and can get one of my parents to be a co-sponsor. And I believe unemployment benefits would count as income for the form. Maybe I should just start applying for US jobs once it's at the NVC or something?

 

Thanks for any help.

Edited December 5, 2024 by Twililord