K-3 vs IR-1

[Delicia 1]

My husband and I are still debating this dilemma. If money isn't the object, but we want the options for my husband to be able to visit me in the U.S. (he is a Canadian PR, Chilean citizen) during the process, what are the pros/cons of these options?

A little history: We married 2 years ago after a 3-4 year long long distance relationship (we are not really sure when our friendship turned romantic, but its a conservative estimate). I moved to Canada with my son and we started the Canadian PR process. Needless to day, 2 years later, having no first stage approval and out of funds, I found a job back in the states and recently moved back and started working. My husband and son stayed in Toronto so husband could continue working and son will come to live with me when the school year is complete. My FOSS notes from the Canadian PR application process indicate that the Immigration Officers didn't like our significant age difference (I am older) and that is more than likely the reason for the huge delay in the process. All other information regarding the Canadian process (criminal history, background checks, medical, etc) were approved by CIC. We withdrew my application for Canadian PR a few weeks ago and are waiting on a refund of fees. My husband is currently in process for Canadian citizenship, but that process can take up to 1 year.

My husband currently has a B1/B2 visa to allow him entry for visits into the U.S. valid until 2010. I know that there is no AOS on this type of visa, but he can come and go out of short visits to the U.S. without problems.

In short, we want to find the quickest way to get him to the U.S. while having the ability to visit during the process. It would be bonus to have him able to work as soon as he gets here as well. So, voice your thoughts about this wonderful process you are undergoing now so we can make a decision and get off the fence already.

thanks for your help, it is very much appreciated

[Chica Yeyé 41]

If I were you, I'd do IR-1.- At the end, it saves you a whole bunch of trouble and you can work right away (once you have your SSN). Sorry to hear CIC was such a pain... I had to deal with them to change from a study permit to a work permit "for accompanying spouse of foreign student" when I finished grad school and married Bren, and they actually LOST all my paperwork!!!

As for visiting, as long as hubby has ties to Canada (job, lease, etc); it seems not to be a problem, though it does depend on the mood of the folks at the POE he uses each time. Good luck, L.

Edited October 15, 2007 by Len_and_Bren

[Flames9_RN 358]

When it comes to the K3 and Ir-1 going through Montreal, I think time wise they are pretty close. BUT if u had lived in Manitoba and west, the K3 would have gone through Vancouver,which is much faster!! oh well

Once one applies for the K3 or IR-1, is the B1/B2 still valid???

And keep in mind with the K3, one can't work right away. Best of luck