Entering US after Visa granted without using visa?

[AndieAndy 0]

Ok so this is way ahead of schedule especially since it is our first question....but.....

So firstly thanks to all the help that is on this site already which has just helped us send off the I-129F packet yesterday. This is a great site and well done to all those that contribute, ask and share.

My question assumes a successful application and granting of the K-1 visa to me. I know it is valid for a six month period and then 90days from entry in to the country with the visa, but can I enter after receiving it without activating it? i.e. Entering using the normal VWP method. This would obviously then allow us more time to plan a wedding but still enable us to see each other.

Thanks Andy.

[YuAndDan 153]

Some Canadians have reported being able to do this but it all depends on the CBP officer at POE, some may allow it, but others may not.

[Jenni and Bo 0]

hmm no I Don't think thats possible

Once you have the K-1 issued, it would come up when you went through customs and they scanned your passport, and since it is only a one-time use, that's all you would get out of it.

Someone can correct me if I'm wrong though!

<3 Jen

[eric_and_teresa 10]

I think the risk of the K-1 being activated is too high to even try it.

[Carlawarla 1]

hmm no I Don't think thats possible

Once you have the K-1 issued, it would come up when you went through customs and they scanned your passport, and since it is only a one-time use, that's all you would get out of it.

Someone can correct me if I'm wrong though!

<3 Jen

Yes, it is possible. Some Canadians have been successful at doing this, explaining that they're coming in for a mini-vacation before using their visa, or by asking the Border people if they can do that. If they can't, and they aren't too far away from the border, then it's no big deal. Some people have even asked the Consulate to delay putting the visa in, until they've made one more trip to the US before moving and this request was granted. Again, this has been with Canadians.