Messybrownhair

Be Advised: The following comments voice my strong opinions on a subject that many will find hard to accept. I make no apologies for my personal beliefs nor will I retract any of my statements. I will however ask that those who disagree respect the OP's posting by addressing the thread rather than launching any personal attacks.
That's the Philippines for ya! Take some good advise; Wash your hands of the entire affair immediately.
Let her family deal with their own problems and you make your own family your sole priority. Personally, and as difficult as it may be for a multitude of reasons, I would immediately cease to provide any and all monetary support to her family as well. (IMO it was a serious mistake to ever have provided financial support for her family in the first place) Your wife will no doubt protest and be upset if you do but, remember that you married HER, not her family. Your wife is your responsibility, her welfare and the welfare of your immediate family is your priority. By taking on the burden of her families needs you have unwittingly put you and yours at risk. Just take a look at the stress and strife that you and your wife are currently experiencing as proof of that fact. There are many unexpected consequences occuring and I suspect more are to come. As difficult as it may be for both you and your wife to witness and accept, poverty is a fact of life in the Philippines. As you can now see, the very perception that you "have money" is enough to invite disaster from all sides when such terrible desperation is a factor. The seemingly innocent and well intended injection of money (however small it may be) into the support of her family has obviously become well known to many others far beyond the scope of just her family, throw in the rampant corruption so commonly seen in the Philippines and that is all that was required to bring you to this current dilemma. Desperate people do desperate things, it happens every day all over the world, not just in the Philippines.
While any responsible husband does in fact have a responsibility to help the extended family (both sides) in times of genuine need, there are distinct limits involved. Sudden serious illness or injury as example or even some unexpected financial distress may require some temporary aid, but beyond that it is fool-hearty for any husband to allow his own family to become financially involved and at risk in order to satisfy the unwise and unrealistic "cultural expectation" of financial support from anyone who has the good fortune of escaping the poverty of their previous life. Yes, charity does play an important role in life; But always remember...."charity begins at home". One must first be able to "help themselves"....before one can truly help others.
This widespread and common belief amongst many Philippino's that a daughter (or son for that matter) who marry's an American or any other nationality "of means" by Philippine standards, has a "duty" to unendingly provide financial support to their natural family (even including cousins and 2nd or 3rd cousins in some cases) is born out of the desperation brought on by poverty and is probably rooted in the so-called "tradition" known as Sin-Sot commonly practiced in Thailand. Without going into too much detail, in Thailand, "Sin-Sot" is the practice of a prospective husband paying both gold and money to the prospective wife's family in order to compensate the family for the "loss" of the potential earnings that daughter may have provided had she not married and left the family. Basically, it's a corrupted form of "dowry". But even in Thailand, there is no evidence that it was ever a part of any true Thai "tradition". In fact, many respectable Thai families would never accept such payment as it would bring utter disgrace to the entire family. The truth is, "Sin-Sot" and the Phillipine custom of expecting and/or demanding financial support from any family member who is perceived to "have money" is a relatively new practice that is born purely out of desperation, corruption and poverty and did not come into play until large numbers of Thai and Philippino women began to marry Americans (primarily) during WWII. Since that time, both Thailand and the Philippines have long been economically distressed and poverty stricken. Sadly enough, the most common and abundant export from either country has been....their beautiful women. Human nature being what it is, it didn't take long for many less than honorable elements of both countries to seize upon their new-found "windfall" of wealth by basically extorting money from their own family members and the spouses they chose to marry.
Yes, many will strongly dispute my statements and attempt to justify this corrupt practice by claiming (and rightly so in some cases) that they do "owe" their families as much as they can give but, a large percentage of those nay-sayers are also the very victims themselves. Many a Filipina has been coached or even brainwashed to believe this corruption since early childhood and it has become deeply entrenched in Philippine society. All people have a natural desire to help their families and a deep emotional bond will always exist, it is that very bond that is so often used to manipulate many Filipina's into mistakenly believing they have a "moral obligation" to serve this destructive "cultural expectation" even at their own peril. In the end, neither party is well served by this corrupt practice and many Fil-Am marriages have been destroyed because of it.
I strongly urge you to take the above into consideration when deciding how best to address your current and future situation. Chances are, there is in fact a certain level of extortion going on and it may not be limited to only outside parties. Many a man has been used and manipulated in ways that boogle the mind to imagine, I'd do some very serious fact checking before I made any commitments if I were you. I firmly believe that many of your suspicions are completely justified and the truth may be even worse than you expect. Honor your wife by standing strong and refusing to allow this or any other outside interference to come between you, she may be a bit confused or even hurt at first, but in the end she will respect you for it. Let troubles on the other side of the planet work themselves out and focus on maintaining your own family's stability. You are not responsible for the problems in other people's lives and they should not depend on you to provide solutions, especially not if the solution they seek....is money.
Good Luck and Best Wishes!

FYI I did complain while I was there. Not sure it worked but I wrote to BDO to complain that they should not partner with PRISM and spread false info about needing a bank account when they know its not true. I received a response saying they will look into the matter. Probably never did lol. Back then there were like 50 of us in one room and they convinced like 48 of them to open one. I refused, as did another lady. Plus you needed php100 to open the account. No way lol

Having been to the US numerous times on my tourist visa before getting the K1, I can vouch that most of what they say is BS and their speakers have never even been to the US (I asked them)..They use scare tactics, tried to convince us to open bank accounts.. it was really awful! At least this was my experience back in 2011

I'm not sure of the right place to post this, but I wanted to share my happiness.
Despite my husband being away on deployment and my mom missing the birth by a day, I am happy to say I gave birth to a healthy baby boy after 24 hours of labor! He was 8 lbs and 4.5 oz, 20.5 inches long. He was a superbowl baby! My husband was able to Skype the birth. I delivered 9 days before my due date and so my mom missed it by a day, she arrived from the Philippines the following day and is spending a whole month with me. I'm just glad it all worked out. I just want to tell others that you can do anything! My husband deployed when I was 18 weeks pregnant and I kept going to school full-time till the day before I went into labor. I survived being alone while pregnant and I am grateful for the company of my mom now. I just ask everyone for prayers so that my husband comes home soon- we expect him home this Fall.

I'm not sure of the right place to post this, but I wanted to share my happiness.
Despite my husband being away on deployment and my mom missing the birth by a day, I am happy to say I gave birth to a healthy baby boy after 24 hours of labor! He was 8 lbs and 4.5 oz, 20.5 inches long. He was a superbowl baby! My husband was able to Skype the birth. I delivered 9 days before my due date and so my mom missed it by a day, she arrived from the Philippines the following day and is spending a whole month with me. I'm just glad it all worked out. I just want to tell others that you can do anything! My husband deployed when I was 18 weeks pregnant and I kept going to school full-time till the day before I went into labor. I survived being alone while pregnant and I am grateful for the company of my mom now. I just ask everyone for prayers so that my husband comes home soon- we expect him home this Fall.

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!

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!

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!

Graduate research asst in school

My hubby would never wear his uniform for that reason. He dislikes it when people wear it out to get special attention. Plus the haircut and demeanor should give it away. You will be fine even if he is in civis. He also wore his uniform for our wedding, but we had a military wedding. Its not meant to be worn in public for no reason

How is that rude? OP already said she left. Just giving advice so he can protect himself in case she attempts to claim abuse. Plus Im sorry but in my book going around skyping people and saying I love you when married is very wrong and unjustifiable. You marry someone then you make a choice to be faithful. Chatting I love you to an old flame is definitely acting on it. Sometimes emotional affairs are far more devastating than physical ones.

I am pregnant with a deploying hubby. I looked into bringing a nanny. It wasnt hard at all to find pinays who are USC or have GC willing to be a nanny. In fact I have already talked to about 5 interested applicants who seem legit and are willing to obtain child abuse clearances. I am however, going to pay decent US nanny rates. It will be for 6 months when baby is born and hubby is deployed so that I can continue school. It will be very difficult to bring someone over, just letting you know that there are other options available. Care.com is also a great site to get nannies and sitters. The au pair visa application is more expensive and just as lengthy as k1. Not worth it. But there are au pair agencies who have pinays eligible for this visa (because they have also worked in europe etc.) The agency alone charges $3k. Goodluck!

So you are actually only assuming she became a LPR/USC. Whats your plan if she didnt?

PS. Bring extra money for ridiculous photocopies, know your fiances middle name and bring some photos just in case. They never asked anything extra from me. It wasnt difficult, and it was nice to listen to people share stories, but just everything about it was annoying to me

I thought the online option was easy, and when I did it it was just the first month of that site so hopefully all the bugs are fixed. based from experience, it takes a while to get thru the phone.. online is fast plus you can see all the available dates right away.

The problem is you have outstayed your welcome here. The country doesnt owe you anything. :/

The problem is you have outstayed your welcome here. The country doesnt owe you anything. :/

The problem is you have outstayed your welcome here. The country doesnt owe you anything. :/

I don't have advice but I wish you luck! I love penguins! One of my lifelong dreams include hugging a penguin lol. They are so cute!!

The problem is you have outstayed your welcome here. The country doesnt owe you anything. :/

The problem is you have outstayed your welcome here. The country doesnt owe you anything. :/

The problem is you have outstayed your welcome here. The country doesnt owe you anything. :/

The problem is you have outstayed your welcome here. The country doesnt owe you anything. :/

The problem is you have outstayed your welcome here. The country doesnt owe you anything. :/

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!