Hi All,
I'm reaching out to seek some advice regarding my current situation:
My K1 Visa was approved in late December 24. Originally, the plan between my fiancée and me was to get married in the US and for me to adjust my status while applying for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and Green Card.
However, we've recently had a change of thought and are considering whether consular processing might be the best and fastest route to follow.
My fiancée is a US citizen residing in the US, and I am a UK citizen residing in England.
The estimated time frame for me to obtain my EAD while in the US is approximately 3-6 months, and it could take between 12-24 months for the Green Card. During the Green Card application processing, I won't be able to leave the US unless provided with special dispensation to do so. Financially, this may prove challenging if the EAD takes a while to be approved.
However, opting for the consular processing route would mean that my wife and I would spend even more time apart, potentially up to 12-18 months. We've already spent nearly 2 years apart, despite occasional visits when our work schedules permit.
Does anyone here have experience with the pros and cons of either route? Can you provide insight into current waiting times (understanding they can vary case by case) and any other information that may be helpful?
Thank you in advance for any advice or guidance you can offer.