I-130 and expediting

[Mark&Fatima 14]

My wife (Philippine citizen) is a CR-1 visa holder. I'm (U.S. citizen) about to file I-130's for her two sons (from a previous relationship). They are ages 9 and 7. My wife's family lives in Tacloban, Philippines, which was severely hit by hurricane Haiyan/Yolanda last November. We've been sending as much money as we can to help them, but we feel it would be better for them if they were here with us asap. Since the hurricane, the boys have been living a difficult life, not going to school, and just doing what they can to survive. The only caregiver they have is their 87 year old Grandfather. I have read that expediting is possible for humanitarian reasons so I will try that.

My questions are:

How long does it take to hear if an expedite is approved or declined?

If it does get approved at the NSCIS stage, do I have to file another expedite at the NVC stage?

I've read that contacting my local Congressman or Senator helps with expediting...do I wait until I get declined to contact them or should I do it right away?

If the expedite is approved, is there an estimate how long it takes before the visa is approved?

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thank you,

Mark & Fatima

[Boiler 45,676]

I thought they had stopped expediting for the Typhoon, you should check the PI forum.

[BobnRuby 1]

Hello....firstly, you can always request an expedite under humanitarian reasons. I'm certain that they will question why the 8 plus months delay if you use Haiyan as your bases. Does your wife have court ordered sole custody of the children?? And yes...you have to ask to expedite at both the USCIS and NVC....Be aware, because so many people showed up at the embassy not prepared, the embassy at Manila will probably only agree to expedite after the NVC as gathered all needed documents for the visas...by the way...Im speaking from experience, my wife lived in Northern Cebu and lost her home and family business between Haiyan and the earthquake....good luck...