Just received a bill for the I-864 that I haven't submitted yet!

[baaj 0]

This is related to the IR1 part of my application, not the K-3.

Has anyone else got this. It is a bill for $70. Is requesting payment to move forward on the IR1 process?

Can I pay and move forward on BOTH the K-3 and the IR1 and see which process goes through first?

Advice sorely needed - I'm really confused

Cheers

[YuAndDan 153]

It is highly recommended to stick to the IR-1 visa, rather than K-3, to adjust status from K-3 is over $1000.

You will be issued a green-card upon entry to the country allowing work, getting SSN, etc.. K-3 has to apply for EAD or AOS and wait up to 90 days to get EAD before being able to get SSN and work.

The IR-1 takes just a little longer through the Gunagzhou consulate.

Also: If you have not found the Chinese Immigrations specific site, you may be interested in "A Candle for Love" that site has the best FAQ, and interview questions list to prepare for that consulate.

http://candleforlove.com

[baaj 0]

Wow - thanks for the quick reply. And for the link - I registered there, but it's not letting me post anything.

So this becomes an either/or kind of process? I can't continue with both?

As you say, I'd definitely prefer my wife to come in on an IR1, but do you know how much longer the IR1 usually takes? Since this process is keeping my wife and son away from me, getting my family back together is more important than the cost. However, if it is just another month or so to do the IR1, then it seems worth the wait. But if it's 3 or more, then I'd rather deal with the extra costs and hassles of the change of status. At least my family would be back together.

[Dakine 26]

Wow - thanks for the quick reply. And for the link - I registered there, but it's not letting me post anything.

So this becomes an either/or kind of process? I can't continue with both?

As you say, I'd definitely prefer my wife to come in on an IR1, but do you know how much longer the IR1 usually takes? Since this process is keeping my wife and son away from me, getting my family back together is more important than the cost. However, if it is just another month or so to do the IR1, then it seems worth the wait. But if it's 3 or more, then I'd rather deal with the extra costs and hassles of the change of status. At least my family would be back together.

You can do either. They are completely different visas. As Dan said MUCH better to go with the IR even tho it takes longer.

She and your son [if not USC] will get 10 year GCs. They won't have to adjust status or remove conditions.

Money wise is $1010 for wife for AOS and about $600 for the kid. Plus medicals and one hell of a LOT of hassles and BS.

May have another interview and they can be denied.

No SS card until they get GC. AOS can take from 2 months to years.

Pain in the butte not having SSN. Can't do a LOT of things without one.

Then they'll have to remove conditions 21 months.

Another $545 plus may have another interview.

Money isn't the main thing.

It's ALL the hassle and stress you'll have to go thru.

With the IR they'll get GCs and SS cards in the mail a couple weeks after arrival and the next thing is going for USC if they want.

Been there done that and blew it by going for K3 and shinning on the CR.

Heck! IR is a thousand times better than any other visa in the long run.

Kick myself in the butte now.

Just my hard earned 2 cents!

Edited October 7, 2007 by Haole