5.3)...How about employment? When can my fiance(e) begin working?
A..(generalized statement)..In principle, right away. It is currently unclear if a K1 can legally obtain employment without an EAD during the validity of the K1. One newsgrouper (Aug 2001) reported working without an EAD in this fashion, however, an inquiry to a local office (San Antonio) produced the answer that an EAD is still required. This particular office advises to visit them immediately after entry to the US to obtain a free 90 day EAD. Several local offices will do this. Just walk in there or call them on the phone and tell them you are a K1, and did not get work authorization at the POE. The newsgroup has reported many successes by determined K1-ers who have done this. In order to be employed, it is also required to have a Social Security Number. A K2 still requires a specific work authorization from the USCIS (INS) to obtain a Social Security number. Any "90 day" employment authorization lasts only as long as the valid K1/K2 status (90 days from entry as noted on the I-94). This can often leave a "gap" of time between the expiration of the K-1 and receiving your EAD after you file for it. During this time you cannot legally work. For this reason most people decide to wait until after they have married and filed for Adjustment of Status (or at the same time as this) to submit an application for an EAD so that they may work.