File IR-1 from abroad or move to US and file?

[TexDude 0]

My wife and I are planning to move to the US and have started the process of filing for an IR-1 visa. I haven't yet submitted the I-130 form but we have everything collected and filled out.

My question is: I am in the process of interviewing for a job in LA and the company says that if I'm successful, they'll pay for my wife's visa application. Would it be better to kick the process off from Europe, or for me to move and start the process from within the US?

Also, I've heard conflicting information about when my wife would be able to join me in the US. Is it after we have received notice from the US government that they are processing our visa application? Or is it after it has been approved?

[teeak 224]

Hmm, the sooner you send the petition, the sooner it will get approved.

She'll be able to join you once she is approved for her visa at the interview. Basically, once your petition is approved by USCIS, it will be forwarded to NVC. NVC will collect fees and supporting documentation. Once they receive and review everything, they will complete your case and schedule an interview. She'll do the medical exam and your wife will go to the interview where they will review everything and either approve or "temporarily deny" (meaning they may ask for more evidence etc.) her case. Once she's approved, they'll put the visa in her passport and she is ready to immigrate to the US.

Also, I'm guessing you'll be residing in California? California Service Center has been very very quick with approvals lately so you may even get the approval and get through most of the process before you move back to the US.

Edited October 1, 2015 by teeak