Which one?

[emilymarie 0]

Hello,

My fiance aaron (canadian citizen) and I (USC) were completly positive that we wanted to go the K1 route, until I had about 80% of my I129-F prepared that is. I discovered that with a CR-1 he would be able to work right away when we move to the US, which is a huge plus. Basically I am just asking for your opinion on which would be a wiser decision.

We originally met online in 2007, talked to each other quite often, our talking became more and more frequent, and in 2009 I decided to go to Canada on a study visa. We met in person on September 5, 2009 and have been together ever since.

My main concern with the CR-1 (and potentially the K1 also) is proving a bonafide marriage. We are not married yet so we would be filing as soon as we are married, would that look suspicious? In our two years of online chatting, neither of us saved any of the IMs (kinda sad). We have been living in an apartment together, and already have a joint bank account, and a bill in both of our names. Would these few things, along with some pictures of the two of us, be enough for evidence?

I have study and work permits that allow me to stay in Canada until 2013, so speed is not our main priority, although I miss home so much, and can't wait for the day I get to go back, with Aaron.

Thanks for your input, and goodluck to all of you in your journey.

[Done--Really 331]

You will find countless people here who filed just a few weeks after they were married--including us--and it is generally not a problem

[CQ & CS 2]

How long have you been in Canada. I think there is another route called DCF if both of you are living overseas. Take a look at this link: http://www.visajourney.com/content/dcf

[CQ & CS 2]

How long have you been in Canada. I think there is another route called DCF if both of you are living overseas. Take a look at this link: http://www.visajourney.com/content/dcf

If you are together in Canada and you can legally stay there till 2013, then go for spouse visa or DCF (if you are eligible). K-1 is more expensive but faster for couples who are apart. Also, he will need to AOS if he enters US under K1 and not been able to work until he gets his EAD or GC; it could take at least 2-3 months.

Plus, you have more time to plan a wedding in Canada rather than rushing to get married in 3 months upon arrival the USA.

[Moomin 292]

Are you living together in Canada?

If you're considering staying in Canada because you're not in a hurry it might be worth mentioning DCF. It requires for you to be married and being a resident in Canada for a minimum of 6 months. Before promising too much there's a link to look at; http://www.visajourney.com/content/dcf or http://www.visajourney.com/forums/topic/621-dcf-canada-yes-virginia-you-can/ to learn more about it, and it may be great of someone having gone through it can advise you better.

I see others have suggested the same.

[calibob 73]

If you married relatively soon, went the IR-1 route then Aaron would enter the US with a 10 year green card after 2 years of marriage. DCF seemingly would be the swiftest route and the IR-1 least expensive with least "emotional" stress (having to file and wait, paperwork, ect.). Even though you are a Steelers fan, I wish you the best in your journey!! You certainly came to the right place for info and guidance as there are many in the know here (myself excluded).

Bob