I want to marry Anna but we are both new to immigration laws. She was told if I live with her in her country for 6 months it would be easier for her to come back with me to the United States to marry.

Question

I want to marry Anna but we are both new to immigration laws. She was told if I live with her in her country for 6 months it would be easier for her to come back with me to the United States to marry. I am willing to live over in Russia for that long but was wondering if this would increase our chances of Anna coming back with me to the States? All I know is I want to be with her and if I can’t get Anna into the States I was looking at moving to another country were we can live together. Please help I am desperate and need sound advice so I can assure her that we are on the right tract. Thank you ahead of time for your advice and knowledge of this matter.

Answer

Ben, Thank you for your inquiry. There are a few things to consider. If you reside together for several months, this increases your chance of success in bringing her to the U.S. on a fiancee visa or spousal visa. You would immigrate her on a spousal visa if you marry in Russia. The more time you spend together is better. You are more a couple than long distance relations.

If you have already met in person, we could file for a K1 fiancee visa now and you could live in Russia while it is processing, then return to the U.S. with her. If you marry in Russia, we could file for a CR spousal visa then you can wait in Russia while it is processing.

She is referring to a direct consular filing. You must reside in Russia for more than 6 months and be a lawful resident of Russia (not a visitor) before filing for a spousal visa. This can be advantageous for expatriates who already reside abroad. In your case, there may be no advantage. I would need to consider further.

There are minimum income requirements the U.S. citizen must satisfy. The minimum income requirements are based on the total number of dependents of you and your fiancee. For more information about satisfying income requirements, go to this post: K1 Visa Income Requirements

These are some general tips. Each case is different. You need an immigration plan before taking action. If you have an interest in working together, you are welcome to call and I will be glad to assist and answer any other questions you have. I do not charge for phone consultations.

Kind regards,
Allan