Hi all, does anyone have any opinion on k1 vs k3 in the case of Vietnam? Is there any BENEFIT to marrying in Vietnam? I hear the timelines for k1 and k3 are running about the same now. Is either a surer bet? My girl is pushing to marry in VN but I want to do what is best to get her here with me. Any thoughts from those of you who went through this process already? Thanks
Jonas

Best to do a K1 as if you marry and she doesn't get approved you have a wife abroad.

Haole has a point there, but there is no "one size fits all" answer. Furthermore if the relationship is legitimate and you are honest with the Consulate she will be approved. The only question is how long will it take?

My first question for you would be do you meet the financial requirements for sponsoring a Fiancee/Spouse? HCMC is not accepting Co-Sponsors for K-1 Visas at this time. This forces many to marry in Viet Nam and pursue a K-3 or a CR1/IR1 visa. Many failed K-1 applications also end up marrying there and going this route.

There were many reasons we decided to marry there. My main concern was my wifes reputation and the fact that I had a bad year financially in 2005. The regulations state that you only need to show 1 year out of the past 3 at 125% above the poverty level for 2 people. Regardless of this fact HCMC has been known to ask for a Co-Sponsor if you have been below that level in the past 3 years.

Another factor that came into play in our case was the fact that I feel that if push comes to shove and I do need to enlist the help of outside forces then I would rather state that I am separated from my Wife, not my Fiancee. That is a personal choice obviously.

At this point we have actually chose for me to relocate there and teach English. After 1 year I can submit the CR1/IR1 (I-130) at the USCIS Field Office in HCMC. If your ties to America are flexible then you could always chose this route as well.