bluesocks

The question I have is: we have not yet a job there or place to stay. So with that in mind, would it be possible to file for a DCF, get the visa neccesary to obtain permanent residence on arrival and hold on to it for as long as one likes? until we find that Job and place to stay? Then when that is done I would get permanent residence upon arrival?

It is not necessary to have a job waiting for you in the U.S. What is necessary is you meet the Affidavit of Support requirements (read about Form I-864).

During the visa process you'll be asked to provide at U.S. address. This doesn't have to be where you live, it does have to be where you can receive mail. A relative or friend's address is acceptable.

For the DCF process, once you're approved for a visa (in your case in Dublin), said visa is valid for six months. And yes, once you enter the U.S. you'll receive your green card (aka permanent residency) in the mail.

Hello!

You'll be filing DCF (Direct Consular Filing) to obtain your green card. Read this: http://www.visajourney.com/content/dcf

I have a very similar story to you, minus the impending baby. Feel free to email me if you have any questions.

Does anyone with experience with California know about the DL requirements and the timeframe out here for getting a DL? This would absolutely make me feel better if I can get it sooner!

My husband's experience getting a California licence...

Yes, you need your SSN first. That took two months, although the length of time was due to a USCIS snafu, so don't panic.

I'm assuming you have a Canadian license. You'll need to pass the written test first, then the driving test. Any California DMV will have a study guide with test questions for passing the written test.

He passed the written test which entitles you to a provisional licence (must have a licenced driver in the car with you), then spent a week learning how to drive on our side of the road. Took the driving test, passed, driver's licence issued on the spot.

California DMV website: http://dmv.ca.gov/dl/dl.htm

Yes, Ireland allows DCF. What you're planning is exactly what my husband and I did and we're now in the DCF process (interview next week!).

Feel free to email me if you have any specific questions.

Thank you for your replies.

If I'm understanding this correctly... based on the current 125% guidelines, a family of two requires US$17,500. Meaning we would need US$52,500 ($17,000 x 3) in assets.

Does this entire amount need to be in a U.S. bank account?

Hello,

I'm the USC (with Irish residency), my husband has Irish citizenship. We're currently living and working in Ireland and plan to file DCF early next year.

In regards to U.S. domicile, I've read that I'm required to have employment in the U.S. as part of the terms of the I-864. Is this true?

I continue to file U.S. income tax while I live in Ireland, I recently renewed my California driver's licence and I have a savings account in the U.S. (the amount of which far exceeds the 125% of poverty level). Is this enough to establish domicile or do I need to show proof of a job offer in the U.S.?

One other I-864 question. My husband and I have a joint bank account in Ireland. Can we include that account as part of our assets, or will we need to wire that money to the U.S. prior to submitting the I-864?

Thank you for any advise you can provide.