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Fiance Visas -
Baltimore
The USCIS Petition
Fiance
Visas:
Baltimore and the rest of Maryland are under the jurisdiction of the USCIS Vermont Service Center (VSC). Therefore, the first step in the Fiance Visa process is submitting the petition to the Vermont Service Center for processing. Presently the VSC is approving our clients' petitions in approximately 2-3 months. Once the petition is approved the file will be sent to the National Visa Center for processing which takes 7-14 days.
Consular Processing
Once the petition is approved by the NVC the approval is forwarded to the American embassy with jurisdiction over your fiancee's country of residence. This is usually the American embassy in your fiance's country, but there are some exceptions. For example, processing for Iranian citizens is done in Turkey. The embassy will send your fiance an initial package (formerly known as packet 3) with consular forms which need to be completed and instructions regarding assembling necessary supporting documentation. These forms are biographical in nature, but can be confusing (all immigration lawyers will either fill out the forms for your fiance or advise her in filling the forms out). Your fiance will need to obtain her birth certificate, passport, police certificate and your Affidavit of Support (form I-134) before sending the appointment package back to the embassy.
The Consular Interview
Once your fiance sends the initial package back to the embassy, the embassy will send her an interview date and instructions on completing the medical exam. This is almost the end of the process, however, it is also the most nerve wracking time because most fiancees are very nervous about the Consular interview. We have learned that nervousness about the interview largely stems from fear of the unknown. We counter this fear by extensively preparing all of our clients for the interview. Once our clients know what to expect at the interview they are able to answer all questions in a relaxed and confident manner. Our clients are never denied the Fiance Visa at the interview.
Marriage and Adjustment of Status
After your fiance enters the United States on her Fiance Visa she has 90 days in which to marry you. After your marriage your fiance must adjust her status to conditional permanent residency. Your new wife must file her Adjustment of Status petition at the USCIS Baltimore District Office. We will advise you on the procedure for adjustment or for an additional fee handle your adjustment case for you. While the adjustment is pending your wife is eligible for work authorization.
If you have any further questions about the Fiance Visa process or Baltimore specific immigration information please feel free to contact us.
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