Fiance Visa

utopiacowboy says on May 18, 2004, 13:30:

Here is the problem. Fiance visa applications are handled by four different service centers in the United States depending on where you live. The California Service Center is very slow. Yes, you could go to Colombia and get married now but this would void your current application for your fiance because the whole purpose of the K-1 is for her to come here and get marrried. If they find out you are already married (and they will), she will not get the visa. You just can't change your pending application into an application for your wife. You would basically have to start all over again and you would have lost the time and money you have already invested in this. My advice is to be patient. And regardless of what you have heard, you cannot simply go to the embassy in Colombia and get a visa for your fiance or spouse. Since June 27, 2003, that option is only available to US citizens who are residents of Colombia.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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Gator says on May 18, 2004, 13:51:

Good advice... Fololw your Uncle utopiacowboy's advice it is on the money.

BTW, the saddest words in Spanish are:

Los documentos están en poder de mi abogado.

"Brevior Sltare Cum Deformibus Mulieribus Est Vita!" .

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ewonder says on May 18, 2004, 16:26:

Fiance Visa Thanks for the info Utopia. I will pass this on to my lady. I agree California is back logged and I have been told to prepare for the application to take as long as 10 months. It would be a real shame to wait this long, but being patient is the best game plan for us. Looks like I will need to plan another trip over there!

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utopiacowboy says on May 18, 2004, 17:19:

You can go to this site to see what the posted processing times are for the California Service Center: https://egov.immigration.gov/cris/jsps/Processtimes.jsp?SeviceCenter=California
As of May 6, 2004, they were processing I-129F for fiances with a date of November 25, 2003. I do not think you will have to wait too much longer.
Also, you can check the status of your case online: https://egov.immigration.gov/cris/jsps/caseStat.jsp
Hope this helps.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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ewonder says on May 19, 2004, 08:23:

Fiance Visa Thanks Utopia. The one website on Visa Application status has never changed in the two months I have been checking it, all I read is the same thing. "Your application was received on March 22, 2004". I think if it were to ever update I would fall out of my chair in shock! The second site you sent was very helpful, my Attorney had shown me this but at the time I did not understand it very well. I see now that they are processing cases from November 25, 2003. The last update on this site was May 06, 2004. I assume it is updated 1-2 times per month. In your experience do these dates stay about 4 months out or do they ever catch up? When you say I wont have to wait much longer, in your best guess how much longer will that be?

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utopiacowboy says on May 19, 2004, 13:07:

Wait a second. You only applied about two months ago and you are already impatient? The processing time varies with the number of cases and the number of people working the cases - actually the California Service Center was doing far worse last year and they have actually made a lot of progress lately. It looks to me like you have another 4 months to wait which in the scheme of things is really not that long.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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ewonder says on May 20, 2004, 07:35:

Yes I am very impatient, I admit it. But that goes along with being from California! I think after I heard about cases taking up to 10 months to approve, it made it worse. I am going to keep my fingers crossed that in 3-4 months this will be a done deal. Thanks for you information about the links, now I can check from time to time and see how are state workers are doing.

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viewpoint says on May 22, 2004, 08:39:

K-1 Visa Interview All of the advice given is well on point but I would add one thing and that is that you better be present in the Embassy (at the window) when the interview is conducted. The US Embassy is routinely turning down Finance Visa requests or asking for more verification. Your personal appearance is necessary (in my opinion). I know of a recent case where 10 finance visa applicants where interviewed and all were turned down except one that was accompanied by an american petitioner.

Among those turned down was a young woman (pregnant with a baby from an american father) who was living with an american man (who lived and owned a business) in Medellin for two years. This situation was corrected only after numerous letters to the Embassy confirming the relationship.

The old days of a rubber stamped finance visa are history. Marriage in Colombia and a K-3 Visa will be a slower process anyway. Since you submitted the K-1 application you must stick with it. The US Embassy is looking for any reason to turn down any visa application including renewals. The K-3 is still the best finance Visa as it allows multiple entrys and is valid for two or three years.

Marriage in Colombia requires that you obtain at the Colombian Embassy a marriage visa or have residency status in Colombia (Colombian Resident Visa or Business Visa and Cedula)and certified copies of your birth certificate, divorce decree (if applicable), certifictae of good standing from local police).

If you think this wait is long just consider the 40,000,000 people that live in Colombia and their plight in obtaining a simple tourist visa to enter the USA. At one time the wait (for the interview) at the US Embassy in Bogota was 1 year and four months only to find out the appication was not approved.

Good Luck

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ewonder says on May 22, 2004, 09:25:

K-1 Visa Interview Gary

Thank you for your advice. I looked at the processing times in California and to my surprise they are up to January 02, 2004! Is very good news I believe, just last week it was November 2003. I was preparing to visit my Fiance in Venezuela where she currently staying with her family. BUT, after reading your posting and seeing where the State is at processing applications, perhaps I should wait and arrange a trip to Bogota instead?

I have read both that it is neccessary and not neccessary to show up for the interview in Bogota. But I would assume if I could be there it wouldn't hurt. If the application is accepted then flying back to America together would be less stressful for my Fiance and better for me too. Is there anything you can suggest I should bring with me to be prepared for the interview? Tax returns, assets, that sort of thing?

I was prepared to take the trip to meet her parents now, but I think another trip later and a second Wedding would be time better spent. The only reason I haven't met her parents was because they live in Venezuela and time did not permit on my previous visit.

Now it seems I have some things to think about and discuss with my Attorney on Monday. I am glad I looked at the board and read your message!

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viewpoint says on May 22, 2004, 10:10:

K-1 Visa Interview It is not necessary to show up for the interview as far the the Embassy and the process is concerned. But, it is necessary to show up or face a 50-70% probability that the interviewer will turn the application down or ask for further verification of the existance of the relationship. The most important thing you will bring is your physical presence to the decision maker.

Copies of all photos, letters, emails, other forms of communication including telephone records are necessary. I would take copies of your tax returns (even through you may have submitted them already), copies of residence leases or ownership, utility records, letters of recommendation all of which probably won't be reviewed but just in case you have them ready. Just push them through the window with her papers )they will probably just push them back without looking but it's good insurance.

You should make contact with the US Senator or Congressman (or woman) from your district and tell them (or their staffers) of your situation (and your long wait) so that if (for any reason) your K-1 is turned down you will have someone to call. A telephone call to the Bogota US Embassy from a Senator or Congressman office will move mountains.

Having gone through the USA tourist visa process in Colombia before (more than once), I have come to the conclusion that (if your time has value) it is easier and less expensive to "legally" acquire or change your Colombian girlfirend's nationality and citizenship to another "more favorable US Visa approval" country than any other normal channel process. I guarantee that the cost (although expensive) has more predictable results.

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ewonder says on May 22, 2004, 21:35:

K-1 Visa Interview You brought up some good points about the visa application. I have already emailed my Senator and Congressman. I even emailed Arnold for grins and his people were quick to point out this was not their responsibility.

I will definitely make the trip to Bogota for the Visa interview. If the odds are less then 50-50 without me being there I do not want to take the risk. Plus I could use a little vacation. Any suggestions where to stay in Bogota? I see they have a Radisson there, but I do not know whether is convenient to the Consulate located on Calle 22.

You mentioned the change in citizenship. It is an interesting idea, but I hope it will not come to that. She would probably have no problem obtaining a Venezuelan papers. I will keep that idea in mind. Today she asked me "what if the visa application is denied" will I leave her? I told her I was not going to give up that easy.

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Pete in Bogota says on May 23, 2004, 16:57:

You don't have to go I know many people who have married Colombianas and not one of them went except for a guy that lived in Bogota went with their fiance to the interview. None were denied, because they were legit. If you are legit and love that woman no worries they will see it in her and in what you sent as evidence.

Just be honest and she will do fine. They can't deny you really unless they have evidence to beleive that you are just marrying for the papers and they must prove that. Even in Colombian parejas the man is always older tan the woman and some by 10-20 years.

If it is true there is nothing to worry about. Try not to stress and I wish you luck even though you won't need it if you really love her and she loves you.

Pete.

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utopiacowboy says on May 24, 2004, 07:17:

You have to be careful posting because things change very quickly. I went with my wife just two months ago for her interview and at that time, you could go to the embassy any day between Monday and Thursday for the interview. This is no longer true - now they send you a specific appointment. This is also true with the fiance visas - they are getting much greater scrutiny now than they did even a couple of months ago. My wife was 6 years older than her first husband and most Colombianas I know want a man who is close to her own age. Of course with enough money and the lure of a green card, anything is possible.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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ewonder says on May 24, 2004, 11:45:

Fiance Visa I think it shows sincerity on my part to show up for the interview. I would prefer to have an appointment well in advance for me to schedule the time off. I have a call in to my Attorney to ask him what he suggests and will post his answer whenever he gets back to me. My fiance and I are within 10 years of age and I am sure the Consulate will be able to see we are legit. I wanted to know though once the visa is approved will she have all the documents neccessary to leave at any time thereafter? Or is there a waiting period.

The processing time is getting close and we are both very excited to see one another. We talk every day on the phone and send emails regularly. I am anxious for her to come here and to see her face when I show her all the attractions in California ie; Disneyland, San Diego Zoo and of course Las Vegas.

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utopiacowboy says on May 24, 2004, 13:22:

This has not changed. They us This has also changed. They used to tell you that you are approved at the end of the interview and tell you to return the next day at 3 pm to get the visa. Now you have to wait for them to send it to you by courier and that takes 7 to 10 days.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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ShazCas says on May 24, 2004, 13:58:

Interview Hi,
I have no experience in US visas as I'm British, but what I can say is that I wholeheatedly agree that being there at the interview is a step in the right direction and can only improve your chances. My husband and I got married in Colombia, and I lived there. At the final interview for his "spouse visa" they were definitely interested to see with their own eyes I was there, and my husband got the visa. There were two Colombian wives of British men there too, and their husbands weren't there. They both got turned down, and one said they'd been trying for ages. I can't say what the details of their cases were of course, but being there shows you're serious.

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asmith says on May 27, 2004, 00:28:

Fiance Visa Dear Mr ewonder; Do not even consider dealing with the useless Bitch Barbara Boxers office, all that Bitch wants to do is fight and not for your issues---Fact. It happened to me several years ago when I was in Chile.After many phone calls from South America to the dishonorable Senator Barbara Boxers office I deterimined that her chief of staff was wasting my time and money in phone calls to her office in San Francisco. If you want to get her attention you may consider making an appointment with her husband who is or atleast was a Workers Comp Attorney in Greenbray, which is about 20 miles north of San Francisco. I do not recall his name but it is not Boxer. You might beable to grease his hand and get a little influence with her, for In my opinion they are both displaced carpetbaggers from New York who have been in Marin County for a number of years. Many attorneys who specialize in immagration are not hep to what the U.S.D.H.S (I.N.S.) is doing today, for it was diffrent yesterday and will be diffrent tomorrow. Good Luck, all of the info mentioned is from experienced petitioners and is true. If you are sincere you will and must be present for the interview. It takes a great deal of time, your government employees do not appreciate your request, and many are with the mind set that you are sleeping with the enemy or marrying a Mexican , for to them all latins are Mexicians especially in California. Sir, do not bother with Arnold he is only a State puppet

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ewonder says on Jun 1, 2004, 07:49:

Fiance Visa Thank you everyone for all you advice and suggestions. It is so helpful to hear everyones unbiased opinions about the visa petition process. I have done about everything I can to this point, I did write Dianne Fienstein and my Congressman (I live in So Cal)and have an Attorney to handle all the paperwork. When the interview is scheduled I will make arrangements to be in Bogota. After reading advice from Utopia and ShazCas I would be a fool not to attend. Again, thank you.

I have a couple questions about the interview and medical exam in Bogota, perhaps someone could answer? Once our fiance visa is "being processed" my fiance will receive a packet advising her of her medical exam and documents requested for the visit? This medical exam will be a seperate appointment from the visa interview or in the same day? And the second part of that question is if these are in fact seperate visits, what is the fee and time frame for test results. I am looking for a link on the USCIS site now, maybe I will answer my own question.

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utopiacowboy says on Jun 1, 2004, 11:43:

The USCIS site will not answer your questions because all the embassies have their own procedures. The US embassy has a good site with a lot of info. Here is the FAQ for immigrant visas: http://usembassy.state.gov/colombia/wwwsc152.shtml#18 which contains info about the medical appointments (lab and doctor). K1s and K3s are NOT immigrant visas, strictly speaking, but they are handled by the Immigrant Visa Unit in the embassy and treated like immigrant visas.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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rfonteno says on Jun 1, 2004, 19:46:

Using a lawyer for your visa process I just received my approval from the California immigration department. It took them a total of 195 days to approve the fiance visa. First of all, the immigration department of California will suggest to you that you do not attempt to check your case status until after 30 days of the targeted date that they sent to you. The reason you need a lawyer is because if you do not dot your i's or cross your T's, they will send the application right back to you. Also, my immigration attorney dressed up my entire package to where it looked professional.It's up to you though but I am satisfied that I obtained a lawyer. I know that I could not have prepared it myself that way. I have received a letter from Homeland Security telling me that my approved petition had arrived at the New Hampshire service center and they would forward it to the Bogota consular. Attatched with some of my papers from my attorney, was a notice of a abnormal amount of petitions that had been recently denied. My attorney stated that a couple of the American gentlemen had not been truthful with their fiances by not telling them that they had been married more than once in the past, or that they had filed for a foreign fiance before in the past. I believe that the consulate in Bogota is looking for sincerity and they will notice at the interview if the American man does not speak Spanish or the woman does not speak English. My attorney also told me that even though it is not mandatory that I go to the interview, he suggested to me that I do go for moral support for my fiance. For advice, I would tell you to remain patient as the other posters are correct in that if you tried to change from a fiance visa to a colmbian spousal visa, you would have to begin the process again. In addition to that, you will also have to remain in Colmbia with no confirmed date that the spousal visa would be issued (so I am told).

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utopiacowboy says on Jun 2, 2004, 07:21:

I personally know of one man who had to go to the embassy four times with his fiance trying to get a visa for her. The first three times they did not give them the visa - finally on the fourth try they were successful. I also know of one day at the embassy where there were 10 fiance applicants. Everyone was denied except for the one where the US citizen accompanied the woman. Things are not the same as they were in the past - it is becoming much more difficult.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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seven7up says on Jun 4, 2004, 10:53:

Switching to the Spouse Visa This is a tight one. I have been living in Colombia for about one year. I sent in for the K-1 visa in February.

In the mean time we got impatient, made wedding plans, have people coming to the wedding and everything. Now our Visa was approved in May (Nebraska office). We even turned in all of the necessary papers to the Notary and have it all set up.

You say that they will know that we are already married?

If that is true, I am in a bind. Now we will have to either do the marriage, start over with a new petition, and wait longer ... or tell the Notary not to come to the wedding and not make it official with the Colombian government that we are hitched. The second option sounds better, unless you have met my fiance's Mother. She would flip over having a wedding that is not really a wedding.

Am I correct on all of this? How much does the spouse Visa take?

7

P.S. I live in Colombia still and I can accompany her to the interview.

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utopiacowboy says on Jun 7, 2004, 07:01:

Yes you are correct. If you go through with the wedding, you are going to have to start from scratch again with the K-3. You cannot wave a magic wand and turn a K-1 into a K-3. You are right - if you do not have the notary come and register the marriage with the Notaria, that will save you because this is the docuemnt that the US government regards as making you officially married for immigration purposes. So she should still be able to get the K-1 and then you can be married in a civil ceremony in the United States.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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utopiacowboy says on Jun 8, 2004, 08:49:

You may be absolutely right in theory, gringopingo, but the sad fact of the matter is the embassy personnel are immune even from congressional pressure. They are a law unto themselves, they do what they want and you are at their mercy. You state in your post "providing the visa is approved...". That's the whole point - they will not approve the visa application without seeing the spouse/fiance. The form that is submitted and approved by the USCIS in the United States is a petition to allow the beneficiary to APPLY for a visa. No guarantees that he/she will get the visa - a completely separate branch of the US government runs the embassies - the Department of State. The Department of Homeland Security runs the USCIS. Each of them has their own area of the sandbox that they control and the State Department controls the visas themselves.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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utopiacowboy says on Jun 9, 2004, 06:59:

Again, you may be right in theory, gringopingo. In the case of the man who had to go to the embassy four times with his fiance, the first three times they neither approved nor denied the visa application, just saying that he would have to return. In our case the interview was a formality but I was there with my wife.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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ColombianGringo says on Jun 13, 2004, 20:14:

Wow, getting carried away with such an easy process here. You do not need be present at the interview for a fiance visa. Just make sure she/he knows everything about you. Where you work,live,phone numbers names of brothers sisters kids. Color of your eyes. You have to make sure the person obtaining the fiance visa knows all about you. I obtained 2 fiance visas with out any trouble. There is ways to speed up the process also. I will only answer that one on a 1 to 1 basis.

Feel free to write me with questions to kd7hsm@yahoo.com

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ewonder says on Jun 15, 2004, 01:06:

Fiance Visa If there is a way to speed up the visa process I would love to hear about it. I have of course hired an attorney already and we are waiting on the application to be filed. Our file was received March 22, 04 and they are processing apps up to Jan 27, 04 here in California. I kind of disagree with your comment on not being present at the interview in Bogota. After waiting this long the last thing I would want to do is jeopardize a visa because someone at the consulate did not believe my fiance.

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ewonder says on Jun 15, 2004, 01:06:

Fiance Visa If there is a way to speed up the visa process I would love to hear about it. I have of course hired an attorney already and we are waiting on the application to be filed. Our file was received March 22, 04 and they are processing apps up to Jan 27, 04 here in California. I kind of disagree with your comment on not being present at the interview in Bogota. After waiting this long the last thing I would want to do is jeopardize a visa because someone at the consulate did not believe my fiance.

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locolombia says on Jun 15, 2004, 07:29:

As Americans we are used to prompt service and face it, we don,t like to wait for most anything.

The Fiance Visa is a true test of patience and you can't forget that.
Ewonder, you should kick back and just wait It's only a few months out of your life, after that your looking at a lifetime together as a couple. You should plan on making another visit to see her and plan a trip to Cartagena or something to get both of your minds off of this thing. It will also give you more quality time with her before you are married. Once in the States, you will only have 90 days to marry or she has to return home.

I have tried every way I could to speed mine up but in the end it is just too risky if you piss off a Embassy employee. Files and Applications have come up "Missing " before. Don't poke at the old slow dog, he just might turn around a nd snap at ya.

mine was approved through Nebraska Service center after about 5-6 months. Since the new security changes have taken affect, you can no longer go for the interview when you want. She must send a fax and wait for it to be faxed or mailed back with a SPECIFIC date for her interview. Kinda like reservations only for dinner...LOL

Once she faxes it to them, expect to wait another 4-8 weeks for a reply with the interview date.

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ewonder says on Jun 20, 2004, 08:20:

Interview Questions I read in another discussion some lawyers may be able to give you a list of "potential questions" the U.S. Consulate may ask during the Fiance Visa interview. If anyone reading this post can send me this list I would greatly appreciate it. I will ask my Attorney next week, but maybe a list from someone that has been through the process would be better? Thank you in advance ewonder60 at yahoo.com

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ColombianGringo says on Jun 20, 2004, 09:01:

Look Dude 1.You don't need to be present at the interview. 2. you shopuld have not used a lawyer, pretty much useless, they can't do anything for you. They tell you to bring them papers and all they do is mail them for you and all they can do is tell you to what date they are processing visas..and for how much did that cost you?? Sorry, I just get tired of people using lawyers for nothing. Have you called your senator? Thats the best tip you'll ever get. They can push your visa through for you. My senator helped me with 2 visas so far. They can call the consulate in Bogota and your service center and talk directly with someone there where your lawyer can not. If you know what to say they can push it up for you. Besides when the embassy in Bogota knows a senator is watching someone they pretty much don't hassle them. Anyone can e-mail me at kd7hsm at yahoo.com If you are using a lawyer I won't help you. Take care for now.
Patrick

Feel free to write me with questions to kd7hsm@yahoo.com

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tiopipe says on Jun 23, 2004, 17:06:

Some help from someone who's been there About 4 years ago, my colombian wife and I did the K-1 thing with a lawyer, Gary Bala. He was professional, courteous and honest...he explained the process to me many times and "handheld" during the rough spots...My wife got her visa in abt 3 months. I think the use of Gary was instrumental: 1)he had handled colombian visas before, 2) he knew what to expect from the processing centers from each area of the country and the presentation of the documents, while, yes a rehash of what I had provided, was in impeccable order and the appearance, I feel, put my wife in a better light when she went for the interview. After she was here and we were married, we have handled all the immigration issues without a lawyer, without a hitch, and my wife is now awaiting her citizenship appt.

Some tips: Explain to your potential wife the difference between lawyers in the US and Colombia. Here, the help you follow the rules,avoid problems with the process and will help you fight if need be...in Latin American they are often looked upon as arrangers or facilitators, who have special contacts and in some instances can accelerate things. In the US, we all stand in line and wait our turn, you just want to be really super prepared when they call your name...you don't want to go back to the end of the line...Most Colombians don't understand this concept and feel like if the guy hired a lawyer then the visa is a guaranteed done-deal, this creates confusion, doubt and rocky stretches in the relationship. I suggest if you can't express this to your fiancee, find someone who can...this calms things down.

In the meantime, encourage/finance english lessons....while this country is quickly becoming bilingual...one is at a disadvantage if english is poor. The more of the language you understand, the more you understand the culture, the people and the daily life...if not your wife is forced to become friends with other Spanish-speakers who may or may not be the best influence on you or your marriage or your future relationship success.

Also, please, please contact your US Senators and ask for help...an email, a phone call, etc to bogota. My in-laws waited about 14 months for a visa interview and were rejected after a 5 minute cursory interview. I called my senator in a panic and got my in-laws a second interview in less than 48 hours. The senator faxed a confirmation letter of this to me in the States, which I faxed to my suegro in Bogota...he used it the next day at the embassy gates and he claims the guards parted like the Red Sea. They were given a full interview and got their visa that day.

Keep looking for ways to gain a little advantage over the current position you've got rather than looking for a back entrance...many have been there before and you're more likely to lose more time and money by doing that, than helping.

Keep your chin up!!! Y saludos a la novia

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utopiacowboy says on Jun 24, 2004, 10:17:

Good advice, Tiopipe. I am still very impressed that your senator could get that kind of results on the tourist visa. We may have to go that route ourselves so my mother-in-law can come for a visit. Muchas gracias.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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ewonder says on Jun 25, 2004, 12:48:

Some help from someone who's been there Thank you for the good advice. I have tried taking the U.S. Senator route with emails and hand written letters to Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein in California. So far I have had the best response from my Congressman who has personally looked in to the application but since it is not being processed, has shyed away from it. California is processing visa's up to February 10, 2004 at the moment. Our application was received on March 22, 2004 so we are very close.

I agree with the comment about the Attornies. Even though the Attorney I hired was a former Immigration Judge with stellar creditials, he is limited to what he can do to push this through. My fiance thinks he isn't doing his job, but in my opinion he can't do much until the application is in the processing state. If I am wrong, please suggest what I need to tell him? For now he gives me his Paralegal who directs me to the U.S.C.I.S. website for status. I have gotten better information off this posting then anything she has told me thus far.

Every so often I check the application status site and look for updates. It has become my daily routine and drives me crazy sometimes. I noticed they updated June 04 and again on June 24 this month. I was expecting an update about June 18th and must have checked the site 100 times from then thru the 24th. With Summer here I think the process might slow down while the workers take their vacations. I explained this to my Fiance who understood and has changed from being really impatient to calming me down and telling me to relax. I think I was hoping to have her here for July 4th, but now I am past that plan!

Muchos gracias amigos!

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utopiacowboy says on Jun 25, 2004, 17:31:

Do you guys have web cams, ewonder? My wife and I had web cams and I think that was all that allowed us to keep our sanity being apart. Every now and again I miss those days - our nightly chats and um, other things.....

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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Riverdancer says on Jun 25, 2004, 22:49:

What a pain! The info posted here by others on the fiance visa is right on. My fiance and I applied in September 04. The Nebraska office, somewhat equal to California, said 160 to 180 days. The application was approved in 172 days. However, the interview didn't happen until June 17 and they didn't give us the visa. Now they want more proof of the relationship. No big surprise as I've stayed on top of available information and expected some kind of BS.

The BS didn't bother me so much but the way you are treated in the embassy is outrageous. My fiance was interviewed by some arrogant American bitch straight out of the hubs of USA liberated woman hell. I'm a US male and I don't have a problem recognizing one when I'm dealing with one. I'm all for equality and equal rights but when you have some bitch who think she's a visa godess complete with tin badge you have a problem.

We can deal with the paperwork, but I'm here to tell you that my congressman jumped all over this with one phone call. Not only did he jump on it, he's followed up every step of the way. Basically he told me that once the congressman steps into the picture the embassy wakes up. He's already sent me a copy of the response from the embassy assuring him all will be handled correctly.

My congressman also informed me that he can request that all additional requirements be sent in writing to his office so there is no more changing in mid stream and no more questions as to what is next.

I've got several friends who have already run the full circle and all have acquired visas. Everyone of them said their experience really sucked. Those that went to the embassy said it was a joke. Per my congressman, it is required to play the waiting game but it's not a requirement to supply crap not required under a set of established criteria.

Next week is the final interview and time for the visa or my congressman is going to know why. My congressman also said with some more information from others with BS experience that he can call for a congressional investigation to address issues related with any particular embassy. I'm all for it!

Good luck to all

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tiopipe says on Jun 25, 2004, 23:15:

Let's accumulate the bad embassy experiences in BOG Riverdancer...great to hear of your progress with BOG and that your congressman is so responsive. Maybe it is a good idea for us to collect these stories via this or another forum and email or get it to your Congressman. I agree with the Congressman, the rules are the rules, but the BS and the nastiness ain't called for. After all, most of us are just trying to get visas...both marriage and travel visas..for our families, and the poor Colombians get treated badly for the most part. I was just at immigration in STL with my wife for fingerprints for citizenship...we had a specific appt, and when we got there they told us that 2 computers one in DC and another in Nebraska had scheduled appts for that day leaving them double-booked.

I joke with the lady and explained I had taken off work especially for this, she told us to have a cup of coffee and come back..we came back abt 20 mins later, filled out some forms, waited another 20 mins and left happy abt 40 mins after our scheduled appts. It's clear that INS/etc is a bureacracy,but I've found them pretty fair IF an AMERICAN is involved, but I hear them talk to some of these immigrants in a way no tax payin' American would stand for...sometimes its warranted because some of these immigrants pull "I'm a very important person, you don't know who my family is" which flies like a lead balloon especially accompanied by arrogance.

But maybe our good faith GROUP efforts might put those who are part of an American family in a different category of service and we won't end up having to apologize to our Colombian In-laws, why a member of the American govt can be so crappy to the public. I was frankly embarrassed by the treatment of my in-laws in BOG last Spring, but my congressman saved the day. In the meantime, I had to deal with tears and anger,and 2 proud retirees who had saved $500 of pension to pay their way to BOG for an interview that lasted less than 5 minutes. I understand we are trying to protect the nation and weed out bad apples, but there has to be a more humane way of doing this.

What happens to Americans 5 years from now who want to open a business or move with their Colombian wives to the new post-Uribe Colombia? Some of these people may very well remember family treatment at the embassy and set up a sterner policy for AMericans...food for thought

Anyway, I say let's collect the stories/experiences and see how far we can go. It seems that after everybody passes thru the embassy gauntlet, and realize they may never have to deal with BOG again, they go on with their lives...leaving the next in line to receive the same customer service.

Let's see what we can do!

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viewpoint says on Jun 26, 2004, 07:44:

Tiopipe Business or Personal Income Outside USA Reply to the following message (quote):

"What happens to Americans 5 years from now who want to open a business or move with their Colombian wives to the new post-Uribe Colombia? Some of these people may very well remember family treatment at the embassy and set up a sterner policy for AMericans...food for thought"

Don't worry the USA will not forget you as they will want to you (their property) to pay USA federal income taxes on your Colombian business (or other global) income as the USA taxes global income. Believe it or not Colombia is one a the few other countries that have laws and regulations taxing global income of Colombian citizens, however, it's not enforced.

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ewonder says on Jun 26, 2004, 07:52:

Do you guys have web cams? Yes Utopia we have our webcams and it is so helpful. I always show here things I have cooked and my dog and probably get too carrierd away sometimes. Thank God for webcams though, it does make the waiting period go quicker. I'm sure I will miss these sessions too, I might not even ever use my webcam again once my Fiance is finally here.

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utopiacowboy says on Jun 26, 2004, 20:45:

The US Embassy in Bogota is a disgrace. After I made a couple of trips there with my wife, I grew to hate the place as much as the Colombians do. I wholeheartedly agree with Riverdancer and Tiopipe. Here is my experience:

After my K-3 petition was approved and it was sent from the National Visa Center to Bogota, my wife and I waited for the packet to be sent to her house. We waited and waited and after four or five weeks we became convinced that it was lost. It turns out that this happens a lot. I sent email after email to the Immigrant Visa Unit at the embassy (they handle the K-3 visas) and I would never receive any kind of acknowledgement. The web site says that questions about these types of visas will only be answered from 3 pm to 4 pm on Tuesdays! So I would try to call then - you guessed it - the phone would be continually busy and I could never get through. One time I just tried calling the embassy some other time and the first person to answer the phone did not speak any English. That's right - no habla ingles at the American embassy. After telling her what I wanted, I got the standard spiel about Tuesdays from 3 pm to 4 pm and they hung up on me. Finally we decided to just take a chance and send my sister-in-law to the embassy to try to get the packet in person. After making her wait for 2 1/2 hours they gave her the packet and said that yes, the original packet had been lost.

When we went to the embassy for the interview, it was a complete joke - they asked her three stupid questions that were already on the forms she filled out. Had she ever been to the US? Had she ever been convicted of a crime? How old were her children? The next day when we came back to get the visa, the guy at the gate was not going to let me in. I pulled out my passport and shoved it in his face and told him, I'm going in. What total BS.

At the same time this was going on, my wife told me that she knew of other Colombian spouses who had somehow managed to get visas in a very short time span. If they can do it, why can't we, she asked. I didn't know what to tell her but I suspect that with money you can buy yourself whatever you want down there. When you add in the way they treat tourist visa applicants (that's a whole separate rant!), you've got a place that makes you ashamed to be an American. I would love to see the place investigated.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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ewonder says on Jun 28, 2004, 11:09:

US Embassy in Bogota Sounds like they have some issues in Bogota. Do you know if there is anyway to obtain the Packet at a Government office in the U.S. so I can forward it on myself? I will write a letter to my Congressman expressing my concerns and use previous examples such as your story. Is important that the U.S. Consulate operate as an American company and not as some second rate thrift store. I was on another site http://www.visajourney.com/consulates/Bogota-Colombia.htm and read the packet #3 contains:
I-134
OF-156
DS-230
Medical instructions with addresses of Doctors.
Then there is packet #4 contains:
Open appointment letter
I found all the forms on line, only the appointment letter would be instrumental I think? I found the email and phone number on this link as well. But have been told it is useless as Utopis stated. My Finace said there is a calling card that can be purchased for $40.000.00 Pesos that allows you to talk directly to the Consulate for 2 minutes, what a racket! But we will pay this extortion fee and see if it helps at all. The big scam there is with the tourist visas like you mentioned Utopia. They collect the $300/USD (non refundable)or however much the fee is now and then immediately deny the application.

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utopiacowboy says on Jun 28, 2004, 14:13:

Some things have changed with regards to the embassy visa processing. There is no longer an open appointment process - when you return Part 1 of the DS-230, they will send you an appointment letter with a specific date and time. You used to be able to return to the embassy the next day to get the visa - now you have to wait for them to send it to you by courier and it can take 7 to 10 days. I sent some updates to the woman who maintains the visajourney embassy info but she recently had a baby and has fallen behind on the updates to the site.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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ewonder says on Jul 1, 2004, 11:20:

Some things have changed WOW! I am so disappointed to hear that about the visa waiting period. For my situation I cannot be down in Colombia waiting this long. I pretty much have taken as much time away from work now as I can. When I go to Colombia for the interview I will have to fly back on my own and then let my Fiance wait for the visa then. I hope they make an exception and give us the visa on the spot. I know I must sound impatient (and I am) but after waiting for months and months only to hit delay after delay, it's enough to drive you crazy.

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James3 says on Jul 1, 2004, 16:18:

e-wonder I feel your pain. I haven't seen my wife since Jan 15th although we talk daily. Our K-3 application was received by the CIS Feb 17 and they are now processing Feb 10th so God willing this part of the process will be over soon. As my wife and I really need to see each other I'm traveling to Cali to spend some time with her this Aug. regardless of where we are in the process. Utopia I may have some questions for you once our application gets sent to the embassy.

also I've heard that there is a one month FBI background check between the time the CIS approves the K-3 and the application is sent to the embassy. Has any one else heard this also?

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utopiacowboy says on Jul 1, 2004, 17:07:

Not FBI - NVC. After the USCIS approves your K-3 petition, it gets sent to the National Visa Center. They do some checks and route it to the proper embassy. They will send you a letter when it is received and send you another letter when they send it to the embassy. After you receive this second letter - you will have a number beginning BOG2004XXXXXX. This is the number the embassy uses for their files. If your wife does not receive the packet within a few weeks of your receipt of the letter from the NVC, either she or someone she designates needs to go and get the packet. There are many instances of packets getting lost. Please feel free to email with any other questions. And don't worry - I know of many other K-3 cases in Bogota and all have been approved with no problems.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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ewonder says on Jul 7, 2004, 08:55:

I feel your pain James, small World. I'm hoping with the next update on USCIS they extend to March 22, but I know for sure you are in next update. I would be interested in hearing how long after your application is in processing you receive the packet #3 and the interview date. If you would be so kind as to post the info or send to me via email, I would be grateful. Good luck with your case!

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James3 says on Jul 13, 2004, 16:18:

Our K-3 petition got appoved on July 9th!!!! Praise God!!! Our K-3 petition got appoved on July 9th!!!! Utopia how long do you think it'll be until National Visa Center sends the application to the Embassy in Bogota? Oddly enough I had intended on traveling to the Embassy in Bogota the week of Aug 15th for other business. Who knows I could possibly return with my wife??

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utopiacowboy says on Jul 13, 2004, 16:40:

Felicidades, James! You will get a letter from the National Visa Center notifying you when they send the petition to Bogota - it will have a case number starting with BOG2004. Our petition was in and out of the NVC in two weeks - they are very fast. The embassy is also very fast in sending out the packets - the problem is they frequently get lost. If your wife has not received the packet within 3 weeks of your getting the letter from the NVC - either she can go or someone she designates with a notarized letter can get the packet for her. It is doubtful you will be able to return with your wife. It used to be an open appointment arrangement but now you have to wait for them to schedule an interview date. You used to be able to get the visa the next day after the interview - now you have to wait for them to send it to her by courier - another 7 to 10 days of waiting. The whole process has gotten a lot worse since we went through at the end of March.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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ColombianGringo says on Jul 18, 2004, 11:04:

Thought that I told everyone to NOT! use a lawyer and I would help in the e-mail...I have helped many people here already that I enjoy doing so. Just irks me using a lawyer...bet he gave you a list of things to gather and bring to him...he charges you all that money just to send it to INS, your lawyer can't do anything for you at all...prolly didnt set up your package correctly either. A couple quick hints.
1.There is not 1 single staple in your package right?
2.You used ACCO clips for everything right?
3.You double hole punched everything too right?
If you said no to any 1 of the above you messed up severely
4.Have you talked to your Senator yet??? Write me at kd7hsm at yahoo.com if you like and dump your lawyer...LOL
Patrick
Colombia, Mi otro pais que amo

Feel free to write me with questions to kd7hsm@yahoo.com

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utopiacowboy says on Jul 18, 2004, 16:57:

Good grief. I did not use any staples, ACCO clips or double hole punches. Did not need to talk to my Senator. Filled the forms out myself. In spite of having "messed up severely", the whole process took 5 months start to finish and my wife has been here with me for the last 4 months.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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ewonder says on Jul 19, 2004, 09:03:

Attorney Services Patrick/Utopia

I just read your postings and agree the Lawyers cannot do much to expedite the visa process. Unfortunately I did hire an Attorney to file my K1 visa application in early March 2004. It was about 2 weeks after that I realized what a mistake I made. My Fiance and I were a little misled to believe since the Lawyer was a former INS hero he would streamline this application through the Embassy or something. This Attorney doesn't return my calls and eventually blew me off to his paralegal who merely directs me to the USCIS website for status. It was a waste of money I admit.

Regardless, I have written my Congressman, both Dianne Fienstein and Barbara Boxer and our Governor Arnold. The only correspondence I receive is letters again telling me what date they are processing visas and if the process is not completed by late August, they will get involved. I would like to contact you on email if you think I missed a step. The applications are processed up to Feb 18, 2004 in California. We are waiting for our application which was received on March 22, 2004.

I suspect within 30 days we will be under review. The unfortunate part is that it is Summer and I think the State employees are burning most of the 12 weeks vacations they have, so everything comes to a grinding halt. In my opinion.

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daveb2000 says on Sep 22, 2004, 21:03:

Hi I have been reading these posts with a great deal of interest. It looks as though this forum has ended but I hope not. I would very much like to correspond with ewonder about his experiences. Is the process finished? Did he go through and marry his Colombian lady?

I have a Colombian lady and I am not very patient. The fiance visa papers went to the INS on July 13 2004. I found out that they are processing papers received on June 7 2004. I hope that it hurries along.

My lovely lady is in Bogota. All I want in this life is to have her here with me.

ewonder...please email me so I can talk with you. my email is groby1_2000 at yahoo.com

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ewonder says on Sep 23, 2004, 09:23:

Bogota here I come! For anyone curious about our application process, we have received packet #3 and #4. The entire process has dragged on over 6 months now, but is almost complete. I will be in Bogotá the last week of October for the interview and some R&R. The U.S. Embassy does respond to emails (eventually) and you can call and speak to someone on Tuesdays 3-4 PM if you are lucky enough to get through. I also corresponded with both Senators in California as well as a Congressman that proved very helpful with inquiries to Bogotá. It hasn't sped things up, but having their support is great.

A special thank you to Utopia Cowboy and Gator for their knowledge and wealth of information on the application process. I know I had many questions for you, thanks for taking the time to respond to me.

Now I only need to choose an Hotel or B&B to stay at in Bogotá! Anyone have personal recommendations? Here are a few I have been looking at. If anyone would rate these based on neighborhoods and room conditions or suggest others that are close to Restaurants, Malls and museum that would be appreciated.

La Opera
Dann Norte
Bogotá Bed and Breakfast
Embassy Suites
Sheraton
Viaggo

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isaactraveler says on Sep 23, 2004, 10:00:

I also don't think an attorney is needed It is pretty clear by what I am reading, that the norm for filing paperwork and getting a response is WAIT. My fiancee just recieved her packet 3 ( minus medical instructions, anyone have info on this? is it a change?). Here is the order and how long it took..out of Texas:

Feb 3 -downloaded application package from internet.
Feb 15 -sent package by mail with check for $110
Mar 3 -recieved letter with case # and link to BCIS website
June 17 -Noted change on my case # on website, documents missing, will receive letter informing me what. never recieved letter.
June 30 -Called Visa center, was told hard cheese, they didn't know anything, wait up to 30 days for letter.
July 15- called Visa center, said could not tell me anything, didnt know, would look into matter.
Aug 12 -recieved letter saying they are looking into matter
Sept 3 -Received notice in mail saying visa application is approved.
Sept 19 -Fiancee recieved package 3 in mail.
Sept 22 -fiancee faxed application to embassy in bogota.

I guess now it will be another $300 for appointment, doctor exam and courrier.. as well as 2 more months to wait for the visa appointment. I hope to have this done and her in the US by Christmas.

My thoughts on the time frame: Based on all that I am reading, it WILL take at least 6 months to get approval +2 more months for appt, with no guaranty that she will get a visa(although almost always approved). I was super impatient to get this done, and doubting myself about turning in the papers correctly. I dont know what mistake there could have been, but it never showed up. I was careful to include lots of pictures about 3 pages with about 9 pics on each page of us and family. I included copies of airline tickets, a stack of phone cards, and a hand written letter (outside official letter required) asking for permission to bring her and son. I also organized everything in order requested, numbered each page and put an index at the front. This part was easy, i took 2 weeks to gather and fill out forms, taking my time, and set everything on a table. When it was ready I made a list by hand then indexed it on computer.

Be patient, I think they make us wait to be sure we dont change our minds. I just came back after staying in Armenia 1 month, and I am sure we are making the right decision.

Can anyone fill in the time frame from faxing application to Embassy, to exams and then visa approval please?

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ewonder says on Sep 23, 2004, 11:14:

Packet #4 Our packet #4 included the medical exam information, lab requirements along with the invitation letter for the interview and a check list which instructs you what to bring along to the interview. I had expected this in #3 but seems this is something that may have recently changed? We received packet #4 18 days after we faxed the DOCs from packet #3 and the interview date worked out to 38 days after receiving packet #4. We plan to complete the medical exam/lab 2 days before the interview, which was what the Doctor in Bogotá suggested we do. I was glad since this saved us having to make an extra trip.

Hope this info helps?

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daveb2000 says on Oct 14, 2004, 19:45:

Hi Ewonder We have received the letter of acceptance from the US Immigration. The document was dated Sept 27 2004.
Could you tell me how much longer of a wait will we have before she gets a notice from the Embassy for her interview? Also how far in advance are they booking appointments?
The hardest part with all this is the wait...

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ewonder says on Oct 15, 2004, 09:30:

Hey Dave I have almost blocked this miserable process completely out of my mind at this point! We received the NOA letter from USCIS around Aug 02 then the NOA from NVC about Aug 09. Packet #3 arrived about Sept 08 and finally we received the packet #4 September 23 with the interview date approx 1 month later.

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daveb2000 says on Oct 18, 2004, 21:21:

Hi Ewonder I have recevied the NOA from the NVC..it looks like we have another 2-3 months to go..I was hoping that she could be here for Thanksgiving..what do you think of the chances for that? Also...is there any truth to the rumor that the Embassy in Colombia will be closed during the month of December?

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ewonder says on Oct 19, 2004, 07:31:

Dave I think your estimate of 2-3 months from the date of the NOA from the NVC is correct. I haven't heard about the Embassy hours for the Holidays, but can check it out for you. I could see them closing maybe the last week of December, maybe? I will be in Bogota in just a few more days, so I can pop into a cafe and let you know maybe next week.

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JT says on Oct 19, 2004, 13:20:

Is this process similar for a Spouse Visa? I believe that Utopia and some other guys did what I am going to do. I'm marrying my fiancee in Colombia then applying for a visa to bring my wife to the US. How is the Fiancee Visa process diferent? Pros/Cons?? Thanks!

JT

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daveb2000 says on Oct 19, 2004, 17:56:

Hey Ewonder OK (I guess) about the 2-3 month wait we have to endure...My fiancee is in Bogota..I was just there the 1st of Oct and flew back on the 5th. The time went by so fast.

Are you going to bring your fiancee back to the states with you when you return?

I hope that you have a good time there in Bog..I think you may need to take a jacket because I hear the weather is turning frio.

Thanks for your help...

Best Wishes...Dave

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ewonder says on Oct 20, 2004, 09:29:

Hope you get good news soon. As far as bringing my Fiance back that is doubtful. I leave 3 days after the interview and the visa probably wont be ready until a week later. Maybe we will get lucky, but I am not betting on it. It will be a change going to somewhere with weather colder then where I am. Better bring the jacket and the umbrella!

I see the US Embassy has just updated their interview dates, but only through end of October.

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utopiacowboy says on Oct 20, 2004, 21:02:

JT, the process is somewhat similar. They use a lot of the same forms and the embassy procedure is the same. The only differences are you don't have to file an I-130 for your fiance first - after she marries in the US, she files to adjust her status to permanent resident. With a spouse you file the I-130 first and then you usually file for the K-3 so she can come here and wait for the I-130 to be approved. When that happens, she can adjust her status to permanent resident. The only other difference that I can tell is the K-3 interview is much more of a formality than the K-1 interview. Many K-1 applications are denied but I have never heard of a K-3 denial although I am sure that they happen. Our interview lasted about 20 seconds: "Approved! Next!"

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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James3 says on Oct 21, 2004, 16:28:

Cowboy utopiacowboy -

My wife's K-3 interview went the same way as yours. My question is now what? How do I get her a work permit? And what do I need to do for the permanent residency track other that wait until my I-130 is approved?

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utopiacowboy says on Oct 21, 2004, 19:14:

James, she can get a work permit by filing an I-765 along with $175 and sending it to Missouri. After 90 days (she will probably not be approved for several months) you can go to your local USCIS office and get a temporary EAD on the spot. She may be able to file an I-485 (AOS) now before her I-130 is approved - it depends on the local USCIS office. Some will do it before it is approved - they get the I-130 from the service center and others will not accept an I-485 until you have an approved I-130. You just have to check and see what they say.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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