Hey guys! I was just made aware of this site and so far I've found it very informative.

I am Canadian and I attend the Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, NY. I am currently perusing my masters degree in deaf education and I plan to become a teacher of the deaf in the field of technology and computers.

I've been engaged to a wonderful woman from New Jersey since April 06 and we're getting married in June 08 in New Jersey.
Right now I am still under my Academic student visa, F-1.

I read the FAQ's and Guides but I'm still left with some questions. Come this May, when I graduate, (1 month before the wedding) I have a year's grace period called the OPT (Optical Practical Training) where I am given a years grace period to work in the US.

My question is...should I apply via my soon to be spouse or though my future employer? Is one more quicker or effective than the other? I believe I qualify under the EB1 or EB2 categories and should not have a problem meeting the requirements.

Or perhaps I should go ahead with the K-1, 90 days before the wedding? Then adjust it after the wedding?

Is it advised to get a lawyer or can all this be done on my own? As you can see, I'm new to this and have a lot of questions. I know I've posted many questions in what is supposed to be my introduction thread. My apologies, I'm eager to get answers and get started.

I hope to benefit from others experience on this site. I've always found forums to be the best sources of information and I am glad there is one for this.

I couldn't find any way to edit my post. I posted my questions in a more appropriate topic thread.

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=96725

I don't know the answers to your questions but wanted to welcome you Good Luck!

Remember that you dont want to commit visa fraud. If you intend to be married, you should file as such. But thats just my opinion. Good luck to you. And welcome!

As a Canadian who's loved one is also from NJ, Welcome to VJ!!!