Messybrownhair

Thank you Tahoma and sunandmoon!
I am however, out of this conversation.
For what its worth though, I think its just an attitude problem not a green card/fraud issue.

I also wanted to add that its not the actual AOS process that's stressful, its not having the GC. Filing for Aos and getting the GC actually made our marriage so much better. The whole time I was waiting I was dependent on my hubby for everything, I couldn't drive study work and I felt stuck and bored, and my husband felt frustrated that I couldn't do any of those. Now that I got my GC, I am more independent and much happier and we can finally begin our lives properly. You might want to see it that way..
Also in my state they did not let me get a DL and change my SSN and my mil id in my married name til I got my GC

I also wanted to add that its not the actual AOS process that's stressful, its not having the GC. Filing for Aos and getting the GC actually made our marriage so much better. The whole time I was waiting I was dependent on my hubby for everything, I couldn't drive study work and I felt stuck and bored, and my husband felt frustrated that I couldn't do any of those. Now that I got my GC, I am more independent and much happier and we can finally begin our lives properly. You might want to see it that way..
Also in my state they did not let me get a DL and change my SSN and my mil id in my married name til I got my GC

Roy...I couldn't agree more...sometimes silence is golden...and Steph is amazingly polite. However, some people don't get the hint even if they are hit over the head with a 2x4.
It's amusing to see this type of thread pop up every so often. I get a chuckle out of the "instant experts" on Filipino culture who mistakenly believe their stereotyping and generalizing somehow passes for knowledge.

Oh dear. I've been ignoring things from ya buddy, but here we have a significant technical matter.
After she arrives on a fiance' visa you get married within the 90 days. Then she applies for Adjustment of Status, which results in a two-year green card. Permanent residency. She's already home free at this point and can get divorced but apply for the 10 year green card on her own. Citizenship too, should she want that. Unless there is substantial positive evidence of fraud there is nothing they can do, even with just the two year green card. She is in.
Before adjustment of status, however, you can take them back to the refund window at the Filipina store. That's why I buy them in bulk. By the pallet. You always have back-up that way and you aren't in a hurry to get your money back. I think the balik bayan box is the way to go on the refunds. If she's small, she might fit into two boxes. Figure three for budgeting purposes though.

Personally I think she's being a brat and you need to let her know that while you understand that things are hard right now, violence and breaking things are unacceptable and should not be tolerated. Having said that, I think she's quite lucky to have an understanding husband like you. Your job was on the line and you did nothing wrong, let her know that
Personally I think she's being a brat and you need to let her know that while you understand that things are hard right now, violence and breaking things are unacceptable and should not be tolerated. Having said that, I think she's quite lucky to have an understanding husband like you. Your job was on the line and you did nothing wrong, let her know that

Personally I think she's being a brat and you need to let her know that while you understand that things are hard right now, violence and breaking things are unacceptable and should not be tolerated. Having said that, I think she's quite lucky to have an understanding husband like you. Your job was on the line and you did nothing wrong, let her know that
Personally I think she's being a brat and you need to let her know that while you understand that things are hard right now, violence and breaking things are unacceptable and should not be tolerated. Having said that, I think she's quite lucky to have an understanding husband like you. Your job was on the line and you did nothing wrong, let her know that

Personally I think she's being a brat and you need to let her know that while you understand that things are hard right now, violence and breaking things are unacceptable and should not be tolerated. Having said that, I think she's quite lucky to have an understanding husband like you. Your job was on the line and you did nothing wrong, let her know that
Personally I think she's being a brat and you need to let her know that while you understand that things are hard right now, violence and breaking things are unacceptable and should not be tolerated. Having said that, I think she's quite lucky to have an understanding husband like you. Your job was on the line and you did nothing wrong, let her know that

Personally I think she's being a brat and you need to let her know that while you understand that things are hard right now, violence and breaking things are unacceptable and should not be tolerated. Having said that, I think she's quite lucky to have an understanding husband like you. Your job was on the line and you did nothing wrong, let her know that
Personally I think she's being a brat and you need to let her know that while you understand that things are hard right now, violence and breaking things are unacceptable and should not be tolerated. Having said that, I think she's quite lucky to have an understanding husband like you. Your job was on the line and you did nothing wrong, let her know that

Just that we are very lucky to have found each other
No real stereotypes for us.. we are both the same age, we met in school, we both have the same education level, we've met each other's friends and families and everyone is just really happy for us! Even if we had not done the k1, I would have been here by this time anyway on a student visa. (I am going to grad school this fall and I applied as an intl student last year. When I got accepted I just told the school not to issue me an 1-20 because I don't need to pursue a student visa anymore since I was already here on a k1). Our original plan was that I would come on a student visa and we'd get married while I was studying which is perfectly legal, but with his upcoming deployment, I felt like it would take too long and we really wanted to be together right away!
However, some of his military buddies do tease him, and his sergeant once commented that my hubby needs to beware of asians, because they make look 20, but are really 50! I thought that was really funny! It's true though, asians age really well Alot of his sergeants are married to Filipinas too so I guess him marrying me wasn't really seen as weird

I carry a colored photocopy with me all the time as advised by other VJ members. I'm too scared to carry it with me all the time.. Also, get a drivers license since that could also be used as a valid ID and would prove that you are resident of that state. I will take my test for it soon!!

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!

I think its great that you guys are sticking together throughout this process!! I think I've developed a bond with my fellow April filers as well

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!

AP takes about 2-3 months to be processed. You could try to expedite it, but if there is an RFE for the I-693 they will most likely not grant the expedite until its completed.. So its a risky gamble. Either way you are under great time pressure. I wish you luck

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!

I'm so sorry for what you're going through.. What triggered his behavior? Have you considered marriage counseling? Is he physically hurting you as well? Maybe if you can figure out the root of the behavior then you can be able to work on it.. The main priority here is for you to protect yourself first and foremost. Hope that you can work things out! If all else fails, stay with your friends or find a women's shelter in your area

OH my God are you serious????????????? The ####### has been lying to her since word one, if you would read these posts more thoroughly you would understand he used her to get here and get GC and a job so he could support his kid and get back to the mother. Wake up and read would you geese he needs to go back to where he came from and hopefully she can move on and be happy again.I'd really like to see how you would feel if you found all this info on your partner. The only truth he told was he did not know about the kid

nota.bene.: Please disregard JR's comment in toto. Thanks in advance !
FWIW, he has a pattern of posting on this types of topics, always positing that reconciliation is possible, when there's clear evidence of immigration fraud, instead.

Hasty generalization. Dad had a heart attack in PI. He's fine. My brother was in a car accident a few years ago. He's fine too. Can happen to anyone, anywhere and you wont surely die just coz it happened in the Philippines.

Her k1 visa already ended when she entered the US. Her I-94 is what's expiring, and the only rule is that you marry within 90 days. Just file for AOS as soon as possible, but don't worry about the 90 day thing. Congrats on the wedding

This is pointless.
Just let him experience it for himself.
It always happens to people who think it won't happen to them. At least my husband and I were prepared for this, and we weren't naive to think that everything would be perfect 100% of the time, so we take the "bad days" in stride, because in most days we live in perfect bliss. Maybe the OP lives in his own little bubble where he thinks marriage is just all about love, and doesn't involve work and compromise.. If you think about it, everyone on this thread except the OP has never posted their dirty laundry on VJ and that's probably because they have a functioning healthy relationship.
Get real, OP.
But I do hope for your sake that your fiance, who I presume to be a girl who works, will not get bored for the 3-6 months that she'll be forced to stay home as she waits for her GC. I don't know how your ego would be able to take it if God forbid she admits to being bored. WHAT, YOURE BORED?? YOU DON'T LOVE ME????

My hubby is in the Army too and we filed a k1 visa, and did it the same way as everyone else. You will have to file a CR1 if you want to marry first. There really aren't any shortcuts just because you're in the military, unless you have deployment orders then you can use it to expedite the process. I personally found that the military hotline is very helpful and really worked with us when we had concerns with the k1 and AOS process. Also, you can also talk to your JAG officer at the base, because I remember that my hubby showed him all our paperwork before we sent it off just to make sure we weren't missing anything. Goodluck to you guys!

It means it is now at CSC.