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Messybrownhair

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  1. Like
    Messybrownhair got a reaction from Danmuji in Married 3 years or 3 years-90 days to file N400 ?   
    I have the same situation as you.
    I was married April 2, 2011 and got my green card June 17, 2011
    My eligibility for naturalization was March 19, 2014 (thats the 90 day window) but I would not have been married for 3 years then, so I waited to send it until my 3 year anniversary date (April 2, 2014) so that I would have met both requirements.
    I would advise you to do the same.
  2. Like
    Messybrownhair got a reaction from Yumburger in Is my Bachelor Degree from the Philippines recognized in the US?   
    Should be just fine.. I am a graduate of UP and I applied to different grad schools here in the US and was accepted into all of them. I just had my transcript evaluated by World Education Services (WES) and the results came out as equivalent to a US Bachelor's degree. I never had to take extra courses to get into grad school. I even got a tuition waiver in school and have a graduate assistant job. The key is not to feel inferior, just know your worth. I have gotten some ignorant comments from other people who don't know anything about the Philippines, and I just politely correct them. I work hard and study harder and that's all that matters. Goodluck!
  3. Like
    Messybrownhair got a reaction from Irene D in Is my Bachelor Degree from the Philippines recognized in the US?   
    Should be just fine.. I am a graduate of UP and I applied to different grad schools here in the US and was accepted into all of them. I just had my transcript evaluated by World Education Services (WES) and the results came out as equivalent to a US Bachelor's degree. I never had to take extra courses to get into grad school. I even got a tuition waiver in school and have a graduate assistant job. The key is not to feel inferior, just know your worth. I have gotten some ignorant comments from other people who don't know anything about the Philippines, and I just politely correct them. I work hard and study harder and that's all that matters. Goodluck!
  4. Like
    Messybrownhair got a reaction from denniam in "The above petition has been approved, and forwared to the listed consulate."   
    He is confused about the process, there is no need to be snappy.
    Like I said, all NOA2s will say it will be forwarded to the consulate but it will still pass the NVC stage.
    The OP did not know that. Heck, I didn't know it back then as well.
    I hope everything is clear now JoshGriga
  5. Like
    Messybrownhair reacted to belinda63 in Health Insurance for Parent when they are new immigrants   
    The way we were instructed to do it so it would be cheaper was to have the father claim himself for a household of one but he also has to file his own taxes. Since he has minimal income that is not a problem.
    Considering your mother an employee is stretching it a bit as I know a lot of parents who use family members to watch their children and don't pay them. For you it would be a barter sort of thing with you providing housing, food, transport, etc. in exchange for her services. Before people start jumping on me if she were coming on a tourist visa it would be different but since a green card is being obtained it would be no different than a USC having their mother watch their child for them, you wouldn't consider her to be an employee.
    There should be a phone number to call to obtain live person help. Trust me, it was a nightmare when we were getting dad-in-law his insurance.
  6. Like
    Messybrownhair got a reaction from TBoneTX in The 100 Best Jobs in America (US News)   
    #35 is what I do.
  7. Like
    Messybrownhair got a reaction from bjrichus in Certificate Signature   
    I was told it needed to match the signature on the side of your certificate. I think it does matter
    My signature is not my full name As well. But that's how I sign everywhere.
  8. Like
    Messybrownhair got a reaction from Jon York in Third World Fiances & Learning to Drive!   
    Eh, I learned quick and I'm a pretty good driver. Got a 1 hour commute to work each day, country driving
  9. Like
    Messybrownhair got a reaction from hardrockangel in Life after K1 POE   
    Hi everyone,
    I thought I would share my experience to others so that it will hopefully help you guys as well. I know that the k1 process is stressful and getting the visa is a true victory. Sadly though, the stress will not end there because after POE there is another journey, but it will be better because you get to experience it with your loved one. I know a lot of people here have already successfully accomplished AOS so feel free to chime in and comment as well.
    First and foremost, read up on the following:
    VJ Link to AOS for k1/k2
    Vanessa and Tony's guide
    Here is what I did from POE onwards..
    1. POE
    Don’t forget to bring the brown envelope from the embassy and hand it to the immigration officer, together with your i-94. Make sure all details on the i-94 are written legibly and correctly. Also, do not leave the airport without checking if all the details on your i-94 is correct (Your name, alien number, date of stamp etc) and DO NOT LOSE YOUR I-94.
    2. GET A MARRIAGE LICENSE
    Check your state laws for the requirements to get married.. Go to your local town clerk to get the license. Some may need a SSN, some won't. So you can interchange #2 and #3.
    3. GET A SSN
    K1 visa holders are allowed to get a SSN as long as they still have a valid i-94. It is recommended to go 10-14 days upon entry so that by then you should already be registered in the database. Now I have been told that there are some SSA who are clueless about k1 visa holders and refuse to give them the SSN until you have your green card. This is FALSE, and if this happens, ask for higher management and demand for it, because you are entitled to one.
    Things to bring: Passport, I-94, NSO Birth Cert, SSN Form (you can get one there). If you go when you are already married, bring your MC.
    Proof that k1 can apply for SSN
    SSN Form
    It should arrive in 1-2 weeks.
    4. FIND A CIVIL SURGEON
    Only if your DS-3025 is marked “incomplete” is a I-693 required to be completed. If it is marked as such (incomplete) you are required to complete certain portions of the I-693 and have a Civil Surgeon certify the form (and seal it in an evelope). Specifically, you will complete Part 1 (Information about you) of the I-693 and provide both the form and your DS-3025 (if you have it, proving your vaccination history) and any proof of required vaccinations that were completed prior to entering the US. If you do not have a copy of your DS-3025 you will need to provide sufficient evidence of your vaccination history to the Civil Surgeon (talk to the civil surgeon’s office to discuss what vaccination records they accept as proof). If you do not have proof of your vaccination history the Civil Surgeon may insist on re-administering all the required vaccinations prior to completing the I-693. Once the Civil Surgeon has has verified that all required vaccinations have been performed, they will complete form I-693 Part 2 (the vaccination section) and Part 5 (the Civil Surgeon’s Certification). They will then seal the form in an envelope and return it to you.
    So this part is a little confusing because I have all the complete age-appropriate vaccines, and yet some people claim to have gotten RFEs for not having their I-693 transcribed so we decided that were gonna do it anyway to avoid any complications The trick here is to call around and find a civil surgeon who will not require you to do another medical, because your medical exam should still be valid for a whole year!
    5. GET MARRIED AND GET THE (certified) MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE
    The marriage certificate is important for AOS, so make sure you grab copies of it!
    FILING FOR AOS:
    AOS DOCUMENTS
    1. Cover letter
    In the checklist above it is recommended that you include a Cover Page with your application. While this is optional, filing a cover page will help the USCIS understand what benefit you are applying for and specifically what items you have included in your package. Again, make sure the cover page includes:
    – the applicants contact information (name, address, phone number)
    – A description of the benefit you are applying for ( Family Based Adjustment of Status Application)
    – A table of contents listing the major items in your package (i.e. I-485 and evidence, I-765, I-131, etc)
    – A line with the applicants signature and date
    2. G-1145 – Form for E-notification of Application/Petition Acceptance
    3. Payment in the amount of $1,070.00 payable to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (personal cheque)
    4. I-485 – Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, signed & dated
    5. Copy of birth certificate
    6. Photocopy of passport biographical details page
    7. Copy of K1 visa in passport
    8. Photocopy of USA entry stamp dated
    9. 2 passport photos (US passport size) – name and alien number printed lightly on back in pencil or felt pen
    10. I-693 Filled up by Civil Surgeon (Bring DS-3205 and Vaccination Records)
    11. G-325A – Biographic Information, including residence and employment attachments
    11. I-864 – Affidavit of Support (TIM) +tax returns, employment letter, bank statement, pay stubs and proof of citizenship
    12. I-864 – Affidavit of Support (Co-Sponsor) + Most recent tax returns and proof of citizenship
    13. Copy of I-797 – Notice of Action, Approval of K1 petition, dated ##### (front & back) - AKA K1 NOA2
    14. Copy of Marriage certificate, dated ##### (front & back)
    15. Copy of I-94 – Arrival/Departure record (front & back)
    EAD DOCUMENTS
    Cover letter
    1. G-1145 – Form for E-notification of Application/Petition Acceptance
    2. I-765 – Application for Employment Authorisation
    3. 2 passport photos (US passport size) – name and alien number printed lightly on back in pencil or felt pen
    4. Photocopy of passport biographical details page
    5. Copy of I-94 – Arrival/Departure record (front & back)
    6. Copy of Marriage certificate (to show name change)
    AP DOCUMENTS
    Cover letter (EXPLANATION FOR ELIGIBILITY)
    1. G-1145 – Form for E-notification of Application/Petition Acceptance
    2. I-131 – Application for Travel Document (Advanced Parole)
    3. 2 passport photos (US passport size) – name and alien number printed lightly on back in pencil or felt pen
    4. Copy of K1 visa (to show present status)
    5. Photocopy of passport biographical details page
    6. Copy of Marriage certificate (to show name change)
    File at:
    USCIS
    P.O. Box 805887
    Chicago, IL 60680-4120
    For courier/express delivery:
    USCIS
    Attn: FBAS
    131 South Dearborn – 3rd Floor
    Chicago, IL 60603-5517
    PAYMENT
    Personal checks must be pre-printed with the name of the bank and the account holder. Also, the account holder’s address and phone number must be pre-printed, typed or written in ink on the check. All checks must be typed or written in ink.
    1. Write the date you are filling out the check including: day, month and year.
    2. On the “Pay to the Order of” line write: “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”
    3. Write in numbers the exact dollar amount of the fee for the service you are requesting. In the example, the amount is “$595.00.”
    4. Spell out the exact dollar amount of the fee for the service you are requesting. The “cents” portion of the amount should be written as a fraction over 100. In this example, the amount is “Five hundred ninety-five and 00/100.”
    5. Write a brief description of the purpose of your payment. In this example, it is “N-400 application fee.”
    6. Sign the check using your legal signature.
    IMPORTANT!
    Make TWO copies of the entire package before you send it in. This includes the money orders too. You want to have a perfect replica of the package you are sending in. All Forms that you submit must be originals with original signatures. Supporting Evidence that you submit may be photocopies. Retain ALL original supporting Evidence since the USCIS has the right to check them by issuing an RFE (Request For Evidence). If you receive an RFE, follow the direction exactly, and make two copies of what you sent back. During any future interviews the USCIS may also want to examine the original supporting evidence.
    Once you send it in, here is what to expect.
    You will receive a NOA1 for all 3 applications, followed by a biometrics appointment. After that you either get an interview date or you get transferred to CSC and you'll be approved with no interview. But don't worry, I heard that the interview is not hard at all, so don't feel bad if you get one!
    That's all, hope this helps my fellow kababayans and goodluck! Here's to hoping you have a happy life in the US, and have a smooth and RFE-free AOS journey!
  10. Like
    Messybrownhair got a reaction from kehills in How much money your husband gives you per month?   
    He never gave me an allowance, we had a joint account and everything is transparent and out in the open. We both know how much we make, and how we spend our money. May not work for all couples, but works for us
  11. Like
    Messybrownhair got a reaction from deleteddd in Only HSdiploma : what job (& pay) could i expect in the South (TN)?   
    Knowing multiple languages is definitely a plus in this day and age, its a great advantage. Goodluck!
  12. Like
    Messybrownhair got a reaction from Harpa Timsah in file N400 while I-751 is still pending   
    When did you get your 2 year GC? You can apply if you have also been a LPR for 3 years, not just having been married 3 years. You can't bypass ROC, but if your ROC is still pending and you are already eligible for n400, then you can apply. Hope that makes sense
  13. Like
    Messybrownhair got a reaction from NancyNguyen in file N400 while I-751 is still pending   
    When did you get your 2 year GC? You can apply if you have also been a LPR for 3 years, not just having been married 3 years. You can't bypass ROC, but if your ROC is still pending and you are already eligible for n400, then you can apply. Hope that makes sense
  14. Like
    Messybrownhair got a reaction from jsjs in My wife hates everything here.   
    Honestly I think she's had plenty of time to adjust. I don't think she wants to. America isn't going to adjust for her, she needs to do it. If she has her AP, let her go home with a chance to come back.. Tell her its up to her, but if she wants to come back she needs to make an effort to try and assimilate. Like an ultimatum. "This is me, this is my life. If you can't love me and accept what I have to offer you then maybe this isn't for the best." I think you've done all you can. Just my two cents. Wish you all the best!
  15. Like
    Messybrownhair reacted to GJen in N-400 April 2014 Filers   
    So all I needed to do was complain on visajourney lol they just sent me a text saying I'm in line for interview
  16. Like
    Messybrownhair reacted to Harpa Timsah in Did you have any concerns before marriage?   
    Marriage is scary!
    Then you deal
    But all those feelings are normal.
  17. Like
    Messybrownhair reacted to Caryh in Fiancee Got Arrested, Serious Question to Ask   
    This sounds like a case where the husband in the divorce failed to show up for a contested divorce. Child support was set and never paid, so now he's deep in a hole for child support. Or child support stopped being paid, his last known legal address received a summons and he ignored it even if the mail was accepted at that location. Child support is set based on income. How its calculated depends on the location, and it can be pretty high with three kids. But those are his kids and its his responsibility to support them. He was arrested because he ignored the court summons and court orders, leading to a bench warrant. He most likely has been ordered as part of the arrest to appear in court. If someone's income drops, they can petition the courts to reduce child support, but ignoring it will create all types of trouble, as he is learning.
    I don't care what he thinks of his ex, she could be the worst woman in the world in his opinion, but he's the one who has failed to do the right thing and see to his own children's support. This is a huge red flag. Speaks to the character of a person. You love him now, but somehow I think we'll see you back in the future under the changes in family section, although I truly hope we don't.
  18. Like
    Messybrownhair got a reaction from sweet cakes in Is it worth it to even try?   
    We are not by any means "super wealthy" but my family came to my wedding.. but we've always had tourist visas so they did not apply just to attend my wedding. I had a tourist visa when I applied for k1, it was just cancelled. Its worth a shot if you have the means to show that they are coming back
  19. Like
    Messybrownhair reacted to belinda63 in Suggestions for labs to conduct DNA testing   
    If you do choose to DNA testing make absolutely sure you absolutely do not obtain just a maternity test as this only proves you share DNA with the child which will mean nothing as you also share DNA with your sister. A maternity test WILL NOT establish that you are the mother of the child and not her sister. The lab will have to do special testing to determine the difference between sister and child.
  20. Like
    Messybrownhair reacted to *Snowdrop* in Co-sleeping   
    This is how I did it.
    When she was very small - under six months I created her own space on one side of the bed. I rolled some large towels up and created a kind of bolster - I could not have rolled over the bolster without waking up. I had a duvet and pillows on my side of the bolster - she just had her night clothes or a sleepsack in winter, exactly the same as she would have done in her own crib.
    We had one of the co-sleepers which was pictured above as well - I used it for the first two months - we had the snugglenest. That was okay but was so big that it meant there was no room for my husband in the bed too.
    During that phase when she needed to be breastfed every two hours I was able to just lift her over to me and put her back with minimal fuss. I could easily touch her during the night to reassure her. It meant getting so much more sleep than if I had to get up and lift her out of a cot. So I was a lot less sleep deprived than I would have been.
    Re the drinking - if you are breastfeeding for the first year or two which I was then you are not drinking heavily at night anyway.
    Re medication - luckily I never had to take any medication which would have made me pass out but I imagine that if I had then my husband would have been the one to sleep next to the baby for that night.
    Later we sidecarred the crib but both still had separate blankets and covers. It was impossible to roll into our sidecarred crib because the crib was so much shorter, the bottom end of it prevents you.
    From 2-years-old she had her own bed (still in our room) but if she wants to get in and sleep with us she just gets in our bed and shares everything as it is.
  21. Like
    Messybrownhair reacted to Ontarkie in Co-sleeping   
    You wear warmer PJ's to bed. Some moms will put the pillow under the sheet so it's still there but baby can't work it's way under the pillow. Now the no blanket is just for mom, dad sleeps away from baby when they are real small so he can have one. Once babies are 6 month old and older the risk goes down, they can take the blankets off they can hit you if you get too close and such. All medication does not cause sleep issues just the ones that would make you sleep deeply, as for alcohol is a choice if you are going to drink it's up to the parent to know it would not be safe.
    With the internet parent's can find websites that will explain how to do it safely, what steps to take and thee really should look into it.
  22. Like
    Messybrownhair reacted to *Snowdrop* in Co-sleeping   
    Actually the risk of SIDS is lower when a baby is sleeping in the same room as the mother. But there are some suffocation risks for small babies in adult beds if the adults are either very deep sleepers or use alcohol or drugs before bedtime.
    The solution if you want to co-sleep and are worried about suffocation is to arrange something like the sidecar crib above or if you have room in the bed make a small 'wall' with a rolled up towel between infant and adult.
    Co-sleeping is great if you are breast-feeding.
    Once they are a little bigger the discomfort is usually to the adults who get kicked in the back or heads through the night. We still share a room with our little girl but she spends most of the night in her own bed now.
  23. Like
    Messybrownhair reacted to Ontarkie in Co-sleeping   
    That is terrible I'm so sorry
    Cosleeping needs to be done safely. Blankets are a big no no, just like baby should not sleep in the middle until bigger, no drinking or sleep meds the list goes on.
  24. Like
    Messybrownhair got a reaction from Mrs O. in N-400 May 2014 Filers   
    Use this calculator to see the soonest you can file http://www.uscis.gov/early-filing-calculator. It seems like it will be May 12 at the earliest provided you have lived in the same district for the past 3 months and you meet all the other requirements.
    Heres the document checklist http://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/files/article/attachments.pdf
    http://www.uscis.gov/forms/citizenship-and-naturalization-based-forms/document-checklist-form-n-400-application-naturalization
    and the instructions http://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/files/form/n-400instr.pdf
    heres the form http://www.uscis.gov/n-400
    You can also use the VJ guides
    You will send a check or money order with your application.
    Time to do some research, good luck
  25. Like
    Messybrownhair got a reaction from mcs123 in Military, petitioning mom and fiance   
    I suppose she can but just remember that after bringing her over on a K1 visa you will file AOS, and they will want proof that you are living as husband and wife so I would make that situation as temporary as possible, otherwise it will look fishy.. i.e., visa fraud or using her to gain more military benefits because you are married. Just a thought.
    Does your mom want to leave her husband? Yes you can petition her/them once you have naturalized and you meet the income requirements or have a co-sponsor. Also one requirement for K1 is that you have met within 2 years.
    Personally I would not petition 2 at the same time, but thats just me.
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