Possibility of visiting the US after receiving the CR-1 visa before moving

[jorgeheid 0]

My fiance and I are weighing the options of the CR-1 visa. I live in Denmark and he lives in California. I am continuing my university studies in Denmark for the next two years which will give us plenty of time for the estimated wait time needed for the CR-1 visa.

 

My question pertains to the following: Could we apply and receive the CR-1 visa while I am still finishing my studies in Denmark before fully moving to the United States?

 

Meaning, I would still be living in Denmark while the visa would be approved with the intention of moving permanently to the United States when I graduate. Additionally, would it be possible to visit the United States after receiving the CR-1 visa before permanently moving to the United States?

Edited August 3, 2020 by jorgeheid

[Lucky2Lucky 2,526]

10 minutes ago, jorgeheid said:

My fiance and I are weighing the options of the CR-1 visa. I live in Denmark and he lives in California. I am continuing my university studies in Denmark for the next two years which will give us plenty of time for the estimated wait time needed for the CR-1 visa. First you need to get married then apply. Wait times are increasing so 2 years is feasible plus you have the option of prolonging it at the NVC stage. Suggest you marry ASAP and by the time you get your visa it may be the 2 year mark which means you would receive a 10 year green card and not have to go through adjustment of status.

 

My question pertains to the following: Could we apply and receive the CR-1 visa while I am still finishing my studies in Denmark before fully moving to the United States? Once you receive the CR1 you are limited as to when it expires (based on your medical) so you should push out the process at the NVC stage so you know you have your visa after you graduate. 

 

Meaning, I would still be living in Denmark while the visa would be approved with the intention of moving permanently to the United States when I graduate. Additionally, would it be possible to visit the United States after receiving the CR-1 visa before permanently moving to the United States? Once you receive the CR1 and you go to the US you "activate" the visa and are a permanent resident. It is not meant to be used as a tourist visa. Yes you can have short trips outside the US but I wouldn't count on going back to Denmark to finish studies, to live or for 6+ months. 

 

[pushbrk 12,087]

Just time the receipt of the visa for after you graduate.  Once you have it and enter the US, you "use" the visa and must maintain permanent resident status in the US.  Doesn't mean you can't leave, but trips should be less than six months with more time IN the US than OUT.