RickD

:dance: Congratulations!!! :thumbs:

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

Port of Entry Review

Event Date

Port of Entry : Fort Lauderdale

POE Date : 2009-08-14

I married my wife on July 20th 2009 in Colombia, I am back in the US, as citizen I am filing the I-130 form along with I-129f, I want to have my wife to my side ASAP, I am sending a package with financial supports forms 134 and I 864 copies of income taxes, pictures g325 forms etc etc.

I want to know how is that I can get her the K3? And how is the I 129 f is going to help me. All lawyers want thousands of dollars! I rather expend that kind of money paying off my wedding credit card bills and her tickets to the US.

Also this Bonafide affidavits, my boss, peers and kids are willing to give me one each, however I was the only one from my side of the family in the wedding in Colombia, my kids is deployed with the USMC, my daughter just had a baby and my parents were on vacation in the Galapagos Islands, I do have a about 300 pictures and videos, I don't have any joint accounts since she doesn't have any US papers yet! How do I do this?

Please help!

All we sent in for evidence was pictures of our engagement dinner, our civil wedding and our Christian wedding. I was also the only one from my family at the wedding. It was not an issue with NVC or with the CO at the embassy. We had much more evidence than the pictures we sent in with the package but, for some reason, in our case we did not need it. You could include the copies of the forms putting your wife on your insurance at work. Anything that shows that you two are truly tied together.

I would advise giong with the CR1 I-130) and not the K3. The time difference is only a few weeks and the CR1 process is several hundred dollars cheaper, plus your wife will not need a separate Employment Authorization Document and you will not have to Adjust Status. When you have been married two years, you can apply to remove the temporary conditions. Just file the I-130 and forget about the I-129F.

We did everything ourselves without a lawyer. Use the guides here and dot every "i" and cross every "t". My wife arrives in Seattle on Aug 14th. The whole process took us just over eight months, but we did have one RFE from the NVC because I made a mistake on one date. That cost us about three weeks to correct. My wife actually had her interview last month, but she needed three weeks notice at her job and a little extra time with her family. Since I was able to visit for 10 days in April, the separation was tolerable. My time line is below. Just follow the guides and if you have questions, post them. This is a great community that really tries to help.

By the way, I served in the Corps back during the cold war. My prayers are with your son. Semper Fi.

Best wishes and God Bless.

Rick

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

Port of Entry Review

Event Date

Port of Entry : Fort Lauderdale

POE Date : 2009-08-14

We sent in pictures from our engagement brunch with my wife's parents, from our civil wedding, and from our Christian ceremony. Of course we had our civil marriage certificate. My wife brought all kinds of additional proof to the interview by the CO did not ask for anything else. The only questions they asked were "How did you meet?" and "Where does your husband live?" Of course, in countries considered to have high marriage fraud, the more evidence, the better.

Rick

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

Port of Entry Review

Event Date

Port of Entry : Fort Lauderdale

POE Date : 2009-08-14

:thumbs: Congrats and God Bless!!! :thumbs:

Rick

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

Port of Entry Review

Event Date

Port of Entry : Fort Lauderdale

POE Date : 2009-08-14

In Bogota it takes 4 - 6 days from the day the interview is passed.

Rick

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

Port of Entry Review

Event Date

Port of Entry : Fort Lauderdale

POE Date : 2009-08-14

Good evening all,

I know this is not a tax forum but I was curious if any of my fellow Journeyers has tried to buy a home while they wait for the VISA process to plod along. My wife is still in China and we've thought about buying a home, which has got to help with the Proof of our marriage etc. I was looking into the $8,000 "First time home buyers tax credit". We qualify and can afford the home etc. But since I don't know how we can file a Joint Return until she has a SSN. If you have bought a home and or filed a Joint Tax Return I'd like to hear how you went about it.

Thanks,

Tom

Tom,

The $8000 tax credit is exactly that - all you do is claim it on next years taxes. No special paperwork to fill out. I am claiming married and 16 deductions right now to get all of my federal withholding in my paycheck (yes, that is legal, but your employer must send in a form to the IRS if you claim more than eight). I'm sort of getting the cash for the tax credit in advance. That money will be part of our down payment. I believe that you have to close by 1 Dec 2009 in order to get the credit. I am sure there is more information on the IRS website.

You can claim your wife by getting a taxpayer identification number for her through the IRS and treating her as a resident alien. You have to send the IRS a letter telling them that she wants to be treated as a resident alien, but when you file your taxes you must report all of her income, worldwide. Once again, you can get the details by searching the IRS website. I hope this helps. Best wishes and God bless.

Rick

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

Port of Entry Review

Event Date

Port of Entry : Fort Lauderdale

POE Date : 2009-08-14

Congratulations!!!!

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

Fantastico

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

I met my wife to be a couple of years ago in China. I have made 5 trips since then and we are going to get married on the next trip. She wants a traditional Chinese wedding. What do I need to take? She said I would need to bring a singleness certificate. I can't find much information about this. Is there an official form? I found in 1 place that it needs to be notarized. Is this true? Who has to notarize it if this is true? Can anyone help me I am running out of time?

Most US state-level Secretary of State offices have websites and they usually have the Apostille instructions and costs on their websites. I had to have three documents Apostilled from three different states (a state will only Apostille documents that are issued in that state). Due to the information on the internet it turned out to be a pretty simple process. Just make sure you follow their instructions exactly. Best wishes and God bless,

Rick

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

Port of Entry Review

Event Date

Port of Entry : Fort Lauderdale

POE Date : 2009-08-14

Got EAD Stamp :

Biometrics Taken :

Harassment Level :

Comments :

I was married in Dakar Feb 2008. I filled the I-130 papers back in April 2008 for my husband and was approved. Got the letter for my husbands interview which took place Jun 11, 2009. My husband was asked some questions then was told they needed more information and they would contact him at another time. Two week slater I emailed them and asked what they needed and how long the process would take. I was advised that our case was in the eligibility review unit and they would contact me when they could move forward. Two weeks later I emailed them again and was advised the case was still in administrative processing and they could not tell me how long this process could take because each case was different. Can anyone advise me as to what they are looking for and how long this proces may take? Has anyone else had this same issue wit the embassy in dakar. We really want to fully start our lives together and we are just in limbo and in the dark now not knowing what is happening, what is next and when this wil be over. Can anyone help with this matter?

We did not have to go through AP, but I have read a lot of posts from those who have and it can be a two week process or take more than a year depending on the reason. There may have been something in your case that was a "red flag" to the CO. Sometimes it is additional background checks, especially in some Muslim countries. It could also be because they suspect the marriage is only for immigration purposes. Any of those things could be a reason for AP. I am pretty sure there are other reasons as well. No one can tell you when this will be over, but many visajourney members have made it through this process successfully, so keep faith with your husband, pray (alot), and just let the process run its course. This is one of those tests that will make your marriage stronger if you will let it. Best wishes and God bless.

Rick

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

Port of Entry Review

Event Date

Port of Entry : Fort Lauderdale

POE Date : 2009-08-14

Got EAD Stamp :

Biometrics Taken :

Harassment Level :

Comments :

Domesa came through and delivered! Visa were approved on Wednesday July 22, and hand delivered this morning, Saturday July 25!

Visas in hand, free to travel, and begin new life in America!

:thumbs: Congrats!! :thumbs:

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

Port of Entry Review

Event Date

Port of Entry : Fort Lauderdale

POE Date : 2009-08-14

Got EAD Stamp :

Biometrics Taken :

Harassment Level :

Comments :

When my wife and I decided to start the filing procedures we were introduced to several lawyers. We decided that we could do it ourselves after discovering VisaJourney.Com

This website is so tailored for just about any situations re immigration. The experiences shared over this medium are building blocks to create your own home. After reading lots of rewiews etc, I followed instructions that were given and it made things so easy especially at NVC.

At my visa interview, I wasn't asked for any physical documents, photos, email letters, phone bills to show communication. I might be one of the lucky ones tho.

To all the other members and those thinking to join; go ahead it will be worth your time. For all members who have either just Filed or awaiting Interviews, hang in there.... the journey will soon be over and I wish for everyone all the success in the world.

:thumbs: Congrats!!! :thumbs:

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

Port of Entry Review

Event Date

Port of Entry : Fort Lauderdale

POE Date : 2009-08-14

Got EAD Stamp :

Biometrics Taken :

Harassment Level :

Comments :

:thumbs: Fantastico!!! :thumbs:

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

Port of Entry Review

Event Date

Port of Entry : Fort Lauderdale

POE Date : 2009-08-14

Got EAD Stamp :

Biometrics Taken :

Harassment Level :

Comments :

My wife had a valid 5 year tourist visa when we married back in December, but I went to visit her in April instead of her trying to visit me. However, I was just paranoid about spending a ton of money on a plane ticket for her and then having some grumpy border agent send her back. I think lgg has given you great advice. In your case I would give it a try. You guys deserve to be together. Best wishes and God bless.

Rick

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

CSC is pretty fast, actually. Check our timeline. It is pretty typical for the average case.

Rick

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

You will get the originals that you send to NVC back at the interview. Since we were living apart after the marriage and did not have any joint accounts yet, we only sent photos from our engagement dinner (with my wife's parents) and our civil and Christian marriage ceremonies. My wife did bring a bunch of extra evidence (insurance documents from my employer, survivor benefit documents from the military, more photos), but the CO never asked to see any of the extra evidence. I guess the fact that we were married TWICE in TWO DAYS said enough! Best wishes.

Rick

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

Congratulatons!!!! Make sure to dot every i and cross every t!! We were off by one number on a date and NVC caught the mistake and sent us an RFE. That little mistake cost us about three weeks total, but other than that we had a smooth process. Best wishes with the rest of your journey.

Rick

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : 2009-07-18

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

It's a fantastic feeling!!!! Congratulations.

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received :

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

sorry my wedding was on JUNE 22, 2009 not JULY :S

First, congratulations on the marriage. Second, really, really read the guides carefully, dot every i, cross every t, and pay attention to the evidence requirements. Finally, if you make a mistake and get an RFE there is no need to panic. Just get the corrected info to them as quickly as possible. NVC does not miss much! God bless and best wishes.

Rick

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received :

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

my case is still at the NVC we returned a checklist response for the I864 on the 1st but they just entered it in the system on the 6th . we called them everyday but they said our case is being reviewed so we must wait 2-4 weeks for a reply i know sometimes its shorter than that but if our case is approved do you think we would still get an August interview date

however i dont see why they should take 2-4 weeks to review 1 single document when everything else in our case is correct it should probably take 1 day

The one RFE we received took about 10 days to process. It probably delayed my wife's visa by about 2 - 3 weeks total. What I found out about the interview scheduling is that if you do not get an interview date by the 15th of the current month, most likely you will have to wait for the next scheduling period. NVC GENERALLY schedules during the first two weeks of the month for the next month. There may be some exceptions, depending on the country where the interview is taking place. The US Embassy in Bogota is VERY busy and there a,re always visa applications that are waiting to have interviews scheduled from the previous month, so if you case is complete after the 10th you may not make on the schedule for the following month due to all of those who were approved and already waiting for appointments from the second week of the month before (that is what happened to us). Just try to be as patient as possible. There is actually an end to the visa journey. Best wishes,

Rick

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received :

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

I just noticed that the CSC processing time chart has been corrected today..........and now the timeline for processing I-130's is MORE than 5 months...........it shows current processing date of Feb. 15, 2009

But if it's true that they don't process petitions in date order that they were received, the monthly updates are pretty inaccurate, right?

Just trying to understand this whole thing........or maybe I should just ignore it all and just wait for my NOA2 in the mail. Knowing to much information (that is probably useless) can make waiting and waiting even harder.

Good luck everyone.......

Our I-130 was approved in 46 days from the NOA1 date. The California center was very quick, especially when compared to Vermont. We decided to forgo the K3 since Ivonne already has a US SSN (from a one year cultural exchange program for teachers in 1998-99) and wants to be able to work as soon as she gets here. We had one RFE from the NVC that cost us about two - three weeks in the overall process (on one date I accidentally typed a 6 instead of a 5 and as careful as I tried to be I missed the mistake when I proofed the form. NVC, however, doesn't miss a thing!) If we had gone with the K3 Ivonne would have arrived last month. Instead she will be here on 14 Aug. Here is our time line -

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received :

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

I remember that first day that I sent the I-130. I was very exited about it but in the other hand thiking the long wait that we were facing. After a long long journey our interview day is comming and even though we are very nervous about it (for no reason) is a great feeling thinking that our big day is just around the conner. It is so special for many reasons since we never thought that for this day instead of two people going to an interview at the Embassy now we are three (in a way) since my wife is 4 and a half months pregnant. Is just the greatest feeling and I wanted to shared it with you all.

Thank you,

Orlando...

Keep us in your prayers!!!!!!!!!!!

Hey Orlando, Congratulations (especially on the daddy thing)!!! The process in Bogota went very smooth for Ivonne. I couldn't be there for the interview, but I was able to visit for 10 days back in April. As long as your paperwork is solid, it should be a piece of cake. Ivonne was only asked two questions - how did you meet (for us it was on www.christiancafe.com ) and where does you husband live. She was out of there by 11:30 am. Best wishes and God bless.

Rick

Finally!!! Finally!!! Finally!!! Ivonne passed her CR1 interview at the Bogota Embassy this morning. They only asked her two questions - how we met and where did I live. We are Praising God. Ivonne will arrive in Seattle on Aug. 14th. Thanks to all the visa journey members for their support and help during this process. God bless you all!!!!!

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date : 2009-07-13

Visa Received : In about six days

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : Passed interview 13 July 2009!!!!

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

Your interview took 182 days from your I-130 NOA1 date.

:thumbs: Fantastic. Our is July 13. God Bless :thumbs:

RickD

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date :

Visa Received :

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : 01/26/2009 Touched

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.

:dance: :dance: Wow. Ivonne and I were talking on Skype Monday evening about how we should have her appointment letter by next week and I just happened to check my email AND THERE WAS THE APPOINTMENT LETTER!!! She is scheduled for July 13 at the Bogota Embassy. I have booked her flight to Seattle for Aug. 14th (that was the first available date where I could use my air miles for most of her ticket!!). That gives her time to resign from her job and spend some time with her family. Our Visa Journey is almost over. Thank GOD for His Grace and MERCY. I pray everyone who is still waiting receives their appointment letters soon. :dance: :dance:

RickD

IR-1 / CR-1 Visa

Event Date

Service Center : California Service Center

Consulate : Bogota, Colombia

Marriage : 2008-12-18

I-130 Sent : 2009-01-06

I-130 NOA1 : 2009-01-12

I-130 Approved : 2009-02-27

NVC Received : 2009-03-10

Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2009-03-17

Pay I-864 Bill 2009-03-17

Receive I-864 Package :

Return Completed I-864 : 2009-03-24

Return Completed DS-3032 : 2009-03-19

Receive IV Bill : 2009-03-31

Pay IV Bill : 2009-04-03

Receive Instruction Package : 2009-06-01

Case Completed at NVC : 2009-05-05

NVC Left : 2009-06-04

Consulate Received :

Packet 3 Received :

Packet 3 Sent :

Packet 4 Received :

Interview Date :

Visa Received :

US Entry : 2009-08-14

Comments : 01/26/2009 Touched

Processing

Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 46 days from your NOA1 date.