Bringing new Filipina wife to visit the US.

Post new topic

Member since 13 October 2016

TEXTOMEXMember11 October 2023 16:47:34

I’m trying to bring my new Filipina wife to the US by the USCIS I-130/I-130a. ($525.USD) Through paid consultation ($150 /45 min.). I’m quoted minimum $5,000.00 USD and it will probably take 8 to 12 months processing with the USCIS. Then it goes to the Philippine Consulate and there is another fee (less than $800.00USD). This will take several months and include the physical.

We’ve filled out the USCIS Form I-130 / I-130A form and can submit them by internet hoping that there are no issues. I really have a hard time paying an attorney over $5,000.00 USD for the forms that we’ve filled out.

PS: She previously had a US visa but it expired over 10 years ago.

Does anyone have any recent experience? Thanks Dan & Francia

clownbob77 Member

Member since 28 June 2021

clownbob77Member11 October 2023 17:15:56

@TEXTOMEX

I will be doing this as well in about 6 months, so any replies will be helpful. I doubt that an attorney is actually necessary if you simply follow instructions and both have clean backgrounds. As Tom Petty said, "The Waiting is the Hardest Part."

Regards,

Bob

TEXTOMEX Member

Member since 13 October 2016

TEXTOMEXMember11 October 2023 19:47:28

Bob, are you married yet? If not, have you applied for the K1 visa or the nonimmigrant visa? After 2 failed nonimmigrant visa interviews I just went returned back to the Philippines (I had just left 3 weeks earlier after a 41 day stay) and we g married. Maybe applying for the K1 visa may have been the best option even after the 2 denials. We aren’t planning on living here. We just want to let her meet my family. I’m ready to sell my house pack what we want for the Bilakbayan boxes, tour the country some and move to the Philippines. You know, I’m a veteran, she’s a widow of an active duty Philippine Army soldier. I’m 63 and she’s 57. I’ve never tried to sponsor anyone before. We’ve been communicating twice a day morning and night via Whatsapp and Messenger for 3 1/2 years. I’ve been there 3 times staying over 40 days with her each time since the COVID restrictions were lifted in the Philippines. Guys and girl’s, in your nonimmigrant visa interview, DON’T SAY BOYFRIEND / GIRLFRIEND OR FIANCE!!! It will ruin your chances of getting your visa.

mumzy1 Member

Member since 11 September 2023

mumzy1Member11 October 2023 21:30:13

TEXtomeX

respectfully Sir,

Where your wife had a USA Visa- whats the reason wife stopping wife to re apply for new updated usa visa?

help you Sir to start new married life in USa ??

ARespectfully

Terence

UK =London

Robertcounselor Member

Member since 03 August 2023

RobertcounselorMember31 October 2023 18:01:41

If you are married, wait until you are near your two year anniversary mark (1.5 years) until you file. This will save you a lot of grief because you should receive for green-card that has no conditions. Otherwise you will receive a "conditional green-card" which requires a new application after 2 years.

TEXTOMEX Member

Member since 13 October 2016

TEXTOMEXMember31 October 2023 23:13:18

@mumzy1 Her US VISA was as a Domestic Helper traveling with her employer’’s family. She just tried the Nonimmigrant VISA twice. No luck, so we got married.

Robertee Active member

Member since 28 August 2018

RoberteeActive member31 October 2023 23:27:07

You can do the paperwork without an attorney. I used the website "VisaJourney" to walk me through it. Yes, it will take 8-12 months to process. If you are married for 2 years or more at the time of your interview, you will be eligible for a 10 year greencard. If you are married less than 2 years, you will only be eligible for a 2 year greencard.

Congratulations on your marriage

Robert

Articles to help you in your expat project in the Philippines

Getting married in the Philippines
Getting married in the Philippines provides a backdrop of immense beauty through stunning beaches, tropical ...
Retire in the Philippines
Retiring in the Philippines can be an exciting prospect for expats. Settling down in the Philippines has its ...
Traveling to the Philippines
Do you need a visa and other requirements to travel to the Philippines? Here is your step-by-step guide for entry ...
Lifestyle in the Philippines
About to move to the Philippines? Wondering how you're going to adapt to your new environment and lifestyle? ...
Dating in the Philippines
The beauty of the Philippines, with its dramatic modern and old Spanish architecture, plus the golden sands and ...
Obtaining a Philippines driving licence
Whether you are converting your existing foreign driving license or applying as a first-timer for a Philippines ...
Leisure activities in the Philippines
Consisting of more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines is a real treasure that you can explore during your stay ...
Choosing your neighbourhood in Manila
Choosing a neighborhood is one of the most critical decisions that expats need to make when moving to Manila. Each ...