Need help on starting CR1 process with my future Canadian wife

[Crazy Cat 41,192]

1 hour ago, ivision413 said:

My question is, can she stay in the US while this is in process?

No, as stated several times. She can visit...at the discretion of CBP at the border.  She can not stay for the entire process and she cannot live in the US until she has a visa.

 

Many spouses visit the US during the process.

Edited December 23, 2021 by Crazy Cat

[SteveInBostonI130 3,350]

2 hours ago, ivision413 said:

Hello, 

I am a US citizen, and my future wife is Canadian. And, I found that the simplest way for her to get permanent residency in the US is through CR1 visa.

But, I have several concerns regarding that.

 

1) I know Canadians can freely travel to the US for 90 days with ESTA. She will be coming here and get married. After getting the marriage certificate, we will fill a petition for CR1 visa. After filing the form, is she going to be OK staying with me in the US until the visa is approved?

2) While the petition is in progress, is it okay for her to travel outside of the US?

3) I know the processing time got much longer now. But, I know it varies by many factors. Do you know how long does it take for Canadians to get the visa usually?

4) Does it matter whether you marry (including marriage certificate) in Canada or in the USA?

 

Thanks for looking over my questions!

Merry Christmas!

 

1).No. She will need to return at the end of her visit.  She can visit again during the process.  She cannot continuously stay.

 

2) Yes, she can travel anywhere in the world as a Canadian citizen, limited to visa/visa free restrictions for Canadian citizens.

 

3) About 15-24 months total.  6-9 months for I-130 approval, about 3 months for NVC, then about 8-12 months for wait for interview at Montreal.  This is based on timelines of those who are interviewing now.  Montreal has a huge backlog.  It may be shorter or longer when you are DQ'd at NVC.

 

4) No.