3rd Party K-1 assistance

[jook 2]

Hi everyone, glad I found this place and its great resources.

I'm getting ready to begin the K-1 process. This has probably been asked before and, if so, please point me to the info as I couldn't find anything.

I'm considering using an outside person to assist with the process. Can someone tell me how much this typically costs and if it's recommended?

I successfully completed the process 11 years ago on my own and I remember it taking forever and it being a real drag. I'm not sure if anything's changed. A couple of the reasons I'm considering getting help this time is that (1) my fiance speaks virtually no English (she is Colombian), (2) I am just finalizing my divorce (though I'm not sure if that has any bearing), (3) my fiance has a child and (4) I don't have much spare time (nor patience).

Thanks for any advice.

[KarenCee 3]

You will find a myriad of responses to this suggestion.

Many use lawyers...some successfully, some not at all. It IS ultimately your decision however.

We didn't use one. We did the process ourselves by using the Guides and the sample forms that are located on this site.

Oh yes, I assure you the divorce does hold sway here...you must have it completed BEFORE you can file the K1. It clearly states that you must be free to legally marry before filing...both you and your fiancée.

Many have done this process themselves, even when the fiancée has a child. As for the time, you will still have to take the time to gather documents and evidence to give to the lawyer. He or she cannot do this and all they will be doing is filling out the forms for you. And taking your money.

It really isn't that hard to do...although many will suggest that a consultation with a COMPETENT immigration attorney is always a good idea at the start.

[sara..... 371]

Hi everyone, glad I found this place and its great resources.

I'm getting ready to begin the K-1 process. This has probably been asked before and, if so, please point me to the info as I couldn't find anything.

I'm considering using an outside person to assist with the process. Can someone tell me how much this typically costs and if it's recommended?

I successfully completed the process 11 years ago on my own and I remember it taking forever and it being a real drag. I'm not sure if anything's changed. A couple of the reasons I'm considering getting help this time is that (1) my fiance speaks virtually no English (she is Colombian), (2) I am just finalizing my divorce (though I'm not sure if that has any bearing), (3) my fiance has a child and (4) I don't have much spare time (nor patience).

Thanks for any advice.

of we had found this site before hiring an attorney we would never have gone with one.......i got more information here and help than i do from him......he filed the papers and thats it nothing more nothing less...........but it something u have to decide for urself......

[payxibka 10,048]

(2) I am just finalizing my divorce (though I'm not sure if that has any bearing)

Huge bearing from a timing standpoint since you both must be free to marry before you can submit the petition.

[jook 2]

Thanks for the responses. This is quite an active forum and a real find!

I understand that I will still need to gather the info and fill out all the forms. I suppose my purpose in seeking assistance is to ensure all my i's are dotted, etc. My fiance would also benefit by being able to speak with someone fluent in Spanish. I am not fluent.

I have 2 persons in mind who provide a visa service, both trustworthy though not attorneys. I'm curious as to what the going rate is, or if there such a thing.

Thanks again.

P.S. - I am aware the divorce must be final before filing. That should happen in 3 weeks, 6 weeks at the most. Another concern is if uscis might not look upon a recent divorce very kindly. [we've been separated for 2 years and there was no reason for a divorce until now.]

Edited March 9, 2008 by jook

[Yoink 7]

If your divorce is final then USCIS will not be biased or judge that it was recent. Take a look at the guides and timeline with links above.

[KimandRuss 0]

Depending on what state you live in you may have a nisi or waiting period after your court date and before you can re-marry / file for the K1. That is the place I am right now. Just be aware that you can not even file without your decree as you must both be 'free' to marry before filing.

Personally, I don't think the process is too time consuming or difficult and can easily be done without a lawyer but as others have stated, that is a personal choice. The guides are really all you need and the folks here are VJ are invaluable.

You might want to consider working a bit on your spanish and your fiance on her english whilst you wait. In the meantime, there are lots of people here that speak Spanish that could help her out and you can find others going through the Columbia consulate in the Regional forum.

Congratulations and best of luck to you and yours!