Stuey

Yes, apply for the SSN yourself. Checking that box on the DS-230 is unreliable and best to take it in your own hands. I got mine 5 days after I applied

Good luck.

Thank you for your help!!

Hi, I tried to find my answer in the guides but was not successful. I wanted to ask how long it should take for my SSN to be generated? I received my Green Card 2 weeks ago and Dept of Homeland Security received my visa package on 31st December 2009. I went to the Social Security Office today but they had no record of me on the system. As I was on a CR1 visa the SSN should be generated automatically as that is past of the DS230. Should I just fill in the necessary forms and apply for the SSN myself?

Hope this is enough info

Thanks!

Hello!

I was wondering if both the US citizen (myself) and my Irish husband require police certificates? Or is he the only one requiring them? We both currently live in Australia (20 months), and previously in Ireland (9 months).

Thanks!

Only your husband needs them.

Okay, great. Just wanted to be sure. Thanks!

Remember he'll need one for every country he has lived in since age 16.

Whether or not you use an attorney is really up to you but we had a recommendation for one with a good track record and they deal specifically with immigration issues. Yes it was expensive but then our journey only lasted 7 months which I like to think was value for money. It is good piece of mind to have a good lawyer talk you through the options and they also prep you for the interview.

My advice:

1. If anyone you know successfully immigrated to the US with help from a lawyer, visit that lawyer for a consultation

2. Know your stuff - if the lawyer knows less than you, they are either ill informed or you don't need one.....

3. Know the cost - we got caught out a couple of times and ended up paying more

4. Check everything - spelling mistakes can be your undoing and even lawyers make them

My lawyer gave me good peace of mind during the process and a good lawyer looks good on paper to people reviewing your case.

Most of all I wish you the best of luck with your application and I hope that you get to be with your loved one soon.

CR1 all the way - we could have gone with K-3 but waited that extra month and going with CR1 now. Would have been less than that between but I was waiting for my police clearance....