EmilyW

Have you met in person in the last two years?  If so, you can go ahead and apply.  I don't believe a formal engagement is needed but, rather, an intent to marry which can take multiple forms.

If you're in Idaho, the average time is seven months, according to USCIS: Processing Times (uscis.gov)

Intention was determined at POE, so no issue with him entering and 'changing his mind' after the fact.

Then, since neither of you are strapped for cash, it will come down to personal choice.  You love the US.  But do you love her more?

If she doesn't want to live here and doesn't even like the US, then the choice is obvious.  Move back.  You're not reliant upon her and, by your own comments, you have more than enough to sustain yourself financially. 

That's correct.

When will you be eligible to become a US Citizen, and how did you get to the US (which visa category)?

Although not directly relevant (I'm a Diversity Lottery winner), the doctor who did our medicals wrote in his report for my younger son that, due to his autism, he would likely never work and was at risk of becoming a dependent of the state.  He saw my kid for 20 minutes and made that determination.  Maddening.  

For the the interview, I brought reports from my son's pediatrician stating the opposite, as well as cognitive assessments.  In the end, the CO yawned when he read that part of the medical report, took my reports and put it into my file, and it made no difference.  We still got approved.  And, today, my kid is hauling a 4.3 GPA and off to college in a few months, so #### that doctor.

I'm not sure if that helps with your situation, but I do believe bringing solid evidence helps.  Doctors are valuable, not infallible.

OP didn't marry their petitioner.  Does that make a difference?

FWIW, I have multiple degrees (including two Masters) and I still had to drop a few levels coming into the US looking for work. 

It didn't worry me because I just needed my foot in the door and I knew, once I was hired, I could prove my worth.  Sure enough, it worked and within months I got my first promotion and within a couple of years, I was back at the level I was in my homeland.  Now?  I earn close to double what I used to earn in Australia and I will retire close to 10 years earlier than anticipated.  #LandOfOpportunity

Nothing in immigration is quick, unfortunately.

It seems like the plan was for her to adjust status.  That route won't work, and the good folk here are providing the best advice.

He files.  She returns home, but continues to visit in compliance with ESTA.  She gets her visa.

Maybe you can travel to her for Christmas?

In my opinion only, she is abusing her tourist visa to effectively live and work in the US.  And she's now looking for a way via the F1 to - I presume - 'study' and continue to work for her employer, I'm guessing.

I'd be cautious.  And it's worth her and you making sure you both know the terms and conditions of her tourist visa, and abiding by them.

How long are you looking to travel.  A few days / couple of weeks shouldn't make any difference.

You will need to apply for work authorization: it's one of the BIGGEST drawbacks of the K1, and one that is well and openly articulated.

What is the visa type?

Where is your wife / where are you living?

We activated, went back to our country of origin for eight months, and returned without problems.  We did maintain a US bank account, address, Amazon deliveries and tax returns during that time: just in case our intent to reside in the US was in question.

Saying 'Had some vacation, been here and there' when you know: a) you are living and working in Germany (which puts the GC in jeopardy, since it's for living in the US and not visiting; and b) you know it's not a vacation.

A re-entry permit will protect your LPR status.  And be sure to file your taxes (you likely won't be double-taxed but get a good accountant to assist).

There are strict rules about: a) adoption; and b) immigration subsequent to adoption.

Which country are you immigrating from?  That information will guide other members to provide the best advice.

Online all the way. 

July 2024?  I'd say that's too long out, and you might want to consider a re-entry permit instead.

How long are you planning to be out of the US after your next visit?  I would be trying to get back here before February 2024, if it were me.

Being an LPR is a weird no man's land.  You get to pay the taxes with few benefits other than the opportunity to live - and work - in the US.  

Loved walking out of the USCIS Field Office for the last time.