Going aboad around time of CR-1 expiration

[dpmusic 0]

Hello all,

I've read a number of articles on this topic, but haven't seen any clear answers yet. Our story is this: my wife's CR-1 is set to expire at the end of May, which means that we will be applying for renewal from our home in California at the end of February (90 days beforehand). We have two questions:

1) I have an internship abroad that lasts from April-August. What issues are we likely to face if she comes with me? I've read about the possibility of having to come back for biometrics or an interview. How long after application are those normally scheduled for? Also, if she has not been approved by the time we plan to return in August, will that mean that she will have to stay out of the country (since he GC expires in May) until she is approved?

2) We spent nine months abroad during these first two years (with, of course, a visit back to the States in the middle to maintain status). The reason was that I was studying abroad, and she came with me. Does this effect the sort of evidence or cover letter that we need to submit with our ROC application?

Thanks so much for your help! This has always been a bit tricky, since I am pursuing a career in international development, which requires a lot of time studying and working at various places around the world.

[mr and mrs 187]

when you send in your packet, you will receive NOA1 which confirms receipt of the i-751 and gives you a one year extension. so her green card (and accompanying letter) would be valid until may of 2013. she would need to have the letter in hand when re-entering the US.

as for the biometrics, it varies but many people get an appt with a month of their submission.

she might want to wait until she has submitted the packet, received the NOA1 and NOA2 (biometrics appt letter), and completed biometrics before joining you. it is possible you could (both) be called for an interview, so keep that in mind as well.

ill let someone else address the issue of time spent out of the US.