Applied i-130 in Canada but moved to US through L1B before i-130 approved

[Ltrain 0]

Since application was done in Canada (and didn't foresee moving to US for work back then), didn't apply for I-485 (Adjustment of Status). Recently moved to US, and now the i-130 has been approved. What should I do now?

 

USCIS says case closed, and I got an email pointing to https://ceac.state.gov/IV to pay and schedule consulate interview.

[OldUser 10,426]

59 minutes ago, Ltrain said:

Since application was done in Canada (and didn't foresee moving to US for work back then), didn't apply for I-485 (Adjustment of Status). Recently moved to US, and now the i-130 has been approved. What should I do now?

 

USCIS says case closed, and I got an email pointing to https://ceac.state.gov/IV to pay and schedule consulate interview.

Well, you can apply for adjustment now if married to US citizen. But it may take longer and be more expensive than heading out of the US and getting immigrant visa. My understanding is, you can schedule interview, and leave the US right before interview. Once interview is completed, you should get visa within a matter of days or weeks, unless placed in lengthy Admin Processing. But I may be wrong. This is not a legal advice.

[pushbrk 13,798]

Just now, OldUser said:

Well, you can apply for adjustment now if married to US citizen. But it may take longer and be more expensive than heading out of the US and getting immigrant visa. My understanding is, you can schedule interview, and leave the US right before interview. Once interview is completed, you should get visa within a matter of days or weeks, unless placed in lengthy Admin Processing. But I may be wrong. This is not a legal advice.

Yes, that's the more efficient way to complete the immigration process.  

[mam521 2,655]

I'd still do consular processing, despite Montreal being a slow consulate.  You'll have to fill out the DS-260 and get those ducks in a row.  Once you do finally get an interview, just plan with your employer to work remotely since you have work authorization and do your interview. 

[Ltrain 0]

Thanks guys! So I still legit have the option to do Consular Processing? (would be in Toronto) Seems to be the faster route since adjustment of status might take another year or so, while the Consular Processing might be just a few months?

 

Plus I'm here on L1 visa, so if I lose my job, Consular Processing is still viable.