Bringing my novia to the U.S.

I've checked out Visa Journey, but I've still got a few questions:

1) I assume the very first step is to get her a passport... can this only be done in person in Bogota (she lives in Cali) ?

2) I would prefer to get maried in Colombia, but the Spousal Visa requires evidence of a "bonafide marriage", for example:
a. Documentation showing joint ownership or property; or
b. A lease showing joint tenancy of a common residence; or
c. Documentation showing co-mingling of financialresources.
But since we would have just gotten married, and would not have ever lived together when we apply for the visa, we would not have any of that kind of documentation. Would the consulate not consider it a "bonafide marriage" and deny us the visa ?

3) I bought a multi-family house two years ago and have been dumping all my money into it as part of a major remodeling job. Consequently, until I get it rentable, I won't have anything in the bank and will have a maxed-out credit card. This would most likely come out when I submit my affidavit for support... what are my chances of being rejected due to being low on cash ?
(I know... maybe not the best time for me to get married. But I really like this girl and want her here with me and also I don't want to risk losing her because of an extended wait... althought she has said that she doesn't mind waiting)

By Albatross on Mar 27, 2008, 09:44 in Visa & paperwork.

Albatross says on Mar 27, 2008, 09:44:

“Democracy - a pathetic belief in the collective wisdom of individual ignorance." - H.L. Mencken

Mononoke28 says on Mar 27, 2008, 09:47:

1. Yes she needs a visa to come to the US.
2. All you need to submit with the petition is your marriage certificate and maybe two affidavits from family and/or friends saying you have a bona fide marriage.
3. You can use a co-sponsor to do the AOS for you.

Diana

ColombianoGringo says on Mar 27, 2008, 10:07:

Albatross, Don't worry too much about the evidence. They are not very picky with newlyweds and they understand that you will not have most of the items on that list. Keep in mind that this form is used for other situations as well, hence that list of evidence. We sent in our marriage certificate, photos from the wedding and some other occasions, travel documents and some insurance documents were she was listed as beneficiary. We got approved without any requests for additional evidence.

Many people on VisaJourney.com have only sent the marriage certificate and been approved. Still, send what you have as it can't hurt. You do not need to send originals at this stage, but you will need them for the embassy interview.

Your assets and debts do not matter as long as you make above 125% of the poverty level for you household size including your new spouse or fiancee.

Also, if you haven't already, make sure to check out VisaJourney.com.

Good Luck,
CG

guacharaca says on Mar 27, 2008, 11:17:

If she resides in Cali, you have to get her passport in Cali.

If you are on the border-line for income, title to a "multi-family house" with a letter explaining that you will be renting it out soon will certainly tip the situation in your favor.

Be sure to include any non-taxable income such as worker's compensation.

My father-in-law put photos of our marriage reception into the local newspaper in Colombia. I did not think much about it at the time, but I think submitting those newspaper clippings was the strongest evidence I had to prove that the marriage was legit.

Everyone here always talks about Visa Journey, but I have used www.visalaw.com with no regrets.

Papi de Alejo says on Mar 27, 2008, 15:12:

Check out this link for Colombian passport information. It includes requirements, fees and timeframes.

http://www.gobiernoenlinea.gov.co/tramite.aspx?traID=201

Good luck

PdA

Robert Jorge says on Mar 27, 2008, 20:56:

You can get a passport in Bogota if you live in Cali. Of course, this would be inconvenient unless going to Bogota anyway. Passports are issued in Bogota within the same day usually - sometimes two. Getting a passport in another city can take several weeks. Lots of people, including my wife, get their passport in Bogota, because they live relatively close, and it is much quicker than getting it elswhere.

The affidavit of support does not ask about debt, assets, etc. It only asks for income and savings. In other words, don't worry about your property note, car payment, etc. Later, you will have to produce certified copies of your last three year's tax returns. But don't worry, they aren't going to check your credit or look at your outstanding debt.

Albatross says on Mar 28, 2008, 08:52:

Thanks for the info

“Democracy - a pathetic belief in the collective wisdom of individual ignorance." - H.L. Mencken