Is it better to marry outside or in the US for bringing a spouse here?

[W199 514]

2 hours ago, Ryanya said:

Is there much of a difference in the approval rate for one vs the other? That's assuming approval rates are even public knowledge, of course.

 

Since we've known each other less than a year and only co-habitate when I'm visiting (which is typically 3 week periods every 3-6 months), and don't share a bank account, my assumption is that our case for a K-1 would be stonger than a CR-1. Then again, maybe many/most CR-1's are from similar situations? I've no idea, but the thought of waiting 17 months and then being rejected - I don't know that I could survive that. Anyway, thanks for all of the information thus far - it really helps.

 

PS: This is regarding Thailand (initial answer was removed above).

Sounds like K-1 or CR1 will not be an issue at all, as long as your fiancée doesn't have a criminal record and you meet the income requirements.  Your bigger risk than being rejected in 17 months is finding out you that you have been scammed, or you married in haste like so many men find out from there.  Sounds like a K-1 is what you want, it will get her here faster and give you time to do a prenup.

 

 

 

[OldUser 10,812]

8 hours ago, W199 said:

Sounds like K-1 or CR1 will not be an issue at all, as long as your fiancée doesn't have a criminal record and you meet the income requirements.  Your bigger risk than being rejected in 17 months is finding out you that you have been scammed, or you married in haste like so many men find out from there.  Sounds like a K-1 is what you want, it will get her here faster and give you time to do a prenup.

 

 

 

K-1 is not a try "before you buy" type of visa. It is for somebody who knows why they want to marry their significant one. K-1 petitioner promises the US government to marry the foreigner.

[W199 514]

22 hours ago, OldUser said:

K-1 is not a try "before you buy" type of visa. It is for somebody who knows why they want to marry their significant one. K-1 petitioner promises the US government to marry the foreigner.

Exactly, that's why I said a K-1 has the advantage of giving you time to do a prenup before the promised marriage. A prenup is a smart thing to do when there is  a big disparity in prenuptial assets, or you own a business, etc...   

 

In addition, for a prenup to have strenght, you should start agreeing on the terms ideally before you file the K-1 and certainly before she arrives in the USA.  Your fiancee can not be put under pressure  into signing it, e.g. "sign it or you will be sent home in shame". It won't be valid.