AlaMike

Hey, I'm glad you had a good time. The second trip is always easier (except for the flights). My 1st was hectic and somewhat chaotic, I didn't know where or what to do. But the ones after, were even better because we spent time going to different places and actually spending time with each other. Now the "fun" begins, with the paperwork and the waiting. If you need anything, be sure to ask on this site. Everyone is here to help.

Haven't heard anything since before your trip. Well??? How was it.

No issues bringing anything that is commercially packaged. You cannot bring raw meat, fresh fruit or vegetables. We brought back several dozen sachets of coffee and various prepackaged spices and had no issues with customs.

My wife has been decorating Since the 1st. Once the lantern goes up... it's ON!

They make money from giving out a lower exchange rate than what is available at the large bank exchanges. Right now the current rate is 56.01 PHP to 1 US Dollar. The exchange rate at Ninoy is around 51.8 to 52. In the provinces you can expect to get even less and sometimes they don't have enough. I even got a great exchange rate at the casino across from the Holiday Inn Express - Newport. I guess they though I was going to use it in the casino. The first time I went I did the exchange at my personal bank and the exchange rate was exactly as the national rate. I will never do this again! Having to keep up with 200+ thousand peso's is nothing I want to try again. My wallet wasn't designed to hold that much.

I have used them all. Taxis, Grab and have rented a car. Unless you are planning to travel long distances and doing a lot of sight seeing there is no need to rent a car. If you do decide to rent, check out the prices in Klook.com. They are a 3rd party rental but you still get the car from Hertz, etc. But, like everyone has said; driving in the Philippines can be a hair raising experience. You are on the surface street with everything from pedestrians (that have no clue) to kamikaze bus drivers and everything in between. Traffic lights and road signs, if there are any and merely a suggestion as many intersections have nothing. But on the national highways traffic is much better, not much but better. I am always shocked at how everyone drives but surprisingly everyone gets out each others way. I see you are in Alabama also. If you need anything, I would be happy to talk to you.

All of the points that @Spicy Chickenjoy has stated. As for currency exchange, Check the current rate of exchange online before you go. The exchange locations in the airport offer good rates as compared to sending money to yourself then having to pay the exchange rate plus the fees. Also, make sure if you plan on using your credit cards out of the country, call or go online to let them know you will be using them and the dates of travel. If you are 100% sure this going to be your plan (K1). Take all of the K1 paperwork with you. You can go thru the list of things you will need from her, copies of birth certificates, pictures for the application, CENOMAR, etc. This may help and avoid the expense of sending this to you back in the States. If you are using taxis be sure they are using the meter, some will tell you a flat rate and it will be many times the actual cost if they were using the meters. Best to download GRAB unless you plan on using Jeepneys or trikes. (My 6' - 280lb frame does not fit well in local transportation). But most of all...have fun, see the country side, enjoy the great food and hospitality.

Log on to the official IRS website. You will need to open an account. From there you will be able to see every years tax forms. They are listed with different headings and download the one marked Wage and Income tax transcript.

You will have no issues traveling as long a you have your ORIGINAL extension letter.

I did the process via paperwork and sent it all to the Embassy. I see there is an online option now. Just be sure to have him look over ALL requirements and forms needed to complete the process. I am sure that any application will have to be approved, then an interview scheduled. Just be aware that all US Passports are printed in the US and then shipped to the applicant and this may take a few weeks after the approval interview.

This makes perfect sense. Crazy that the SCOTUS has to make it clear. But it would keep people from filing charges against a President for "murder" after declaring war on a country or simply taking out an enemy.

I purchased 1 way on Phil Air for my wife and son. There were other less expensive flights but with more stops. Since he was small, I thought the fastest route possible was the best option. We had no issues, they both had the required paperwork to leave the country and enter the US.

Is the father a US citizen? For a CRBA to be issued. At least (1) parent must be a US citizen at the time of birth.

I did but the was back before Covid. In hindsight, it was a waste of time. But since, as previously posted. You have to have stamp before appointment.

Although we are are not lawyers. That's what this site is designed for. Asking questions, to get help. So, don't be afraid to simply ask.

Update After getting the notice that USCIS had received the package on 3/20/2024 and the i-797 was to follow in the mail. We finally received it on 5/28/2024. At least we can relax when it come to travel in July

**UPDATE** Finally received the I-797 in the mail on 5/28/2024. No we have no need to worry about travel problems.

We got an text on 3/20/2024 that stated: We have received your application on 3/15/2024 and that the I-797 would follow in the mail.

Yes, I know its a big deal since her green card is expiring. Answers - No we have not moved - Yes, the check has been cashed - I have sent email asking about it If nothing comes toward the end of June (trip is in mid July), we will go to the USCIS office and get I-551 stamp.

We received notice that the case had been received on 03/15/2024 and that the I-797 would be sent in the mail. As of today 05/20/2024, we still have not received it. I have read in most peoples experience that it came in about 4 weeks. My wife's 2 year card expires on the 26th. Not a big deal other than we plan to travel out of the country in mid July.

Don't worry yourself to much about the CFO. Some officers can be rude and try to use scare tactics. Just be confident in your answers and be strong. My wife went thru CFO a few of years ago, when you actually met face to face. They told crazy stories about foreign husbands (American) only wanting house keepers and sex slaves. Trying to find a reason for you to second guess yourself about the whole process. Also don't worry about age gap. My wife and I have about a 25 year difference.

Just submitted I-751 for my wife. She was K1 visa also. If you need anything just ask.

Glad to see you are hanging in there also

Since we are in Alabama, the files were sent to Tempe, AZ.

Got my wife's I751 submitted now. Luckily. it was before the price increases in April. So now, we sit and wait. From what I have been told, she will probably be a US citizen before the actual card arrives