My dating service posts IMBRA regulations, but I’ve moved past “chat stage” and would like to exchange phone numbers. What is best way to proceed without violating any law?

Question

My dating service posts IMBRA regulations, but I’ve moved past “chat stage” and would like to exchange phone numbers. What is best way to proceed without violating any law? Do I ask online company to disclose my criminal background? What is proper procedure? Thanks.

Answer

Raymond, The IMBRA reporting requirements for making introductions are imposed on the dating sites, not on you. There is no penalty for you to meet someone online and make a connection. You do not have compliance requirements at the meeting stage. You should not be denied a K1 fiance visa simply because you have not independently disclosed criminal convictions at first contact with your fiance. You are required to follow the directions of the dating site or they will not turn over to you her contact information.

Once you have decided upon marriage, there are parts of IMBRA requirements that apply to you, but in a different way. The USCIS is targeting those who have filed multiple K visas for different foreigners. You are not necessarily being target for disclosure simply because you have criminal convictions. It is the combination of having prior K visa petitions and also criminal convictions that can trigger the need for an IMBRA waiver. As a separate matter, you certainly want to make sure your fiance is aware of any criminal convictions you have whether or not IMBRA applies. Often, the foreigner is questioned at the K visa or CR visa interview about your convictions, so she needs to be prepared.

For more information about IMBRA requirements, go to: IMBRA

Kind regards,
Allan Lolly