When To Apply for K1 visa

[1HappyGuy 45]

I think your original plan of filing in September or October will probably work, but you might want to consider the general time lines and average processing times. On average, a K-1 application will be processed in the California service center in three months. The National Visa Center will take anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks to process, but since you are from the UK you should plan on 1 week. After that it depends upon the processing times for the US embassy in Ireland. It is at this point you have some ability to slow it down. You can request a later date than they offer for your interview so that the visa will be issued later. It is also possible to discuss with the embassy officials at that time about issuing the visa later or getting an extension.

I have a friend that extended the interview date more than six months after the K-1 application was approved. So there are methods for slowing down the process. However, you best bet is to allow the K-1 to proceed at its normal speed while in the California processing center.

Unless there has been a change, the K-1 visa is good for six months from date of issue. So, if you are approved from February 2008 or later (visa issued), you should be able to plan the wedding you want. At least you are giving yourself plenty of time to do this properly. Just remember that you must marry within 90 days of your arrival and then you get to begin the AOS process.

It's usually a good idea to start the AOS as soon as possible. In this way you can work sooner and if needed, return to Ireland with the ability to re-enter the USA. After your marriage, you are sort of in limbo until your status has been adjusted to permanent resident and you get a green card.

Welcome to VJ. You will find lots of help here and many to support you during the waiting process. It's possible to get a visitor visa during the K-1 process, but you must return in time for the visa interview at the embassy in your country.