How long does it take...

[jmigs 0]

Does anyone know how long this process takes?? I have looked at the processing time table, but does it really take 6 month just for the process to start?? i have friends that got the green card within 3 months! so i am very confused about the time scale and now the process in itself.. Can i live in the US while the process is happening or do i need to stay in my home country (my husband is the US citizen, I am french). if i can be in the US can i work, or do i just sit on my hands waiting for any sign of life from the Vermont office.

If anyone has any insight it would be apreciated, as i am going a little crazy at the idea of being apart from my husband for that long!

Please help...

[john_and_marlene 162]

does it really take 6 month just for the process to start??

No, it starts the day the petition is sent in.

i have friends that got the green card within 3 months!

Past timelines/situations do not translate well to current timelines/situations.

What was their situation? What did they file? When did they file?

Can i live in the US while the process is happening or do i need to stay in my home country (my husband is the US citizen, I am french).

You may be able to visit the U.S. while the process is happening. Your entry to the U.S. will be decided by CBP at the POE. You would need to bring strong evidence that you would return home before your visit expired.

if i can be in the US can i work, or do i just sit on my hands waiting for any sign of life from the Vermont office.

You can not work while here on a tourist visa.

Your ability to work after arriving with the marriage-based visa will depend on whether you entered with IR1/CR1 or K3. If K3, you can apply for employment authorization which usually takes 60 - 90 days to get approved, but sometimes longer.

If you enter with IR1/CR1, you will be able to work right away.