Hello all. Ok, I have spent the last 4 hours researching in ThaiVisa and US Gov't links and I am still not quite sure I have the answer yet. Here is my goal: To get my Thai GF (fiance) to the USA as quickly as possible, and for her to be able to live in the US (as my wife) as long as possible. With that in mind, which option is best: Officially marry her in Thailand (I will be in Bangkok another 2 weeks on a Tourist Visa) and then apply for the K-3? Option two: Do NOT officially marry in Thailand, but apply now for the Fiancee Visa (K-1) and officially marry her when she gets to the US. I am really trying to avoid the scenario of "I should have done that when I was in Thailand" after my return home. Any advice greatly appreciated.

I don't know if things have changed, however, I was told that it takes about 1 year to take a wife from Thailand to America. Then I went to INS in Atlanta and applied for the K-1 visa and it was completed in about 4 months. I do think it will take a little longer now since 9/11. I did this in 2000. You will need to get married with in 3 months of her arrival. She will have authorized to work stamped in her passport if you ask when she arrives in LA. Then just go to Social Security and and get SSAN.

I don't know if things have changed, however, I was told that it takes about 1 year to take a wife from Thailand to America. Then I went to INS in Atlanta and applied for the K-1 visa and it was completed in about 4 months. I do think it will take a little longer now since 9/11. I did this in 2000. You will need to get married with in 3 months of her arrival. She will have authorized to work stamped in her passport if you ask when she arrives in LA. Then just go to Social Security and and get SSAN.

My wife and I applied for the K1 visa in 2005. I applied here in April, and she received her visa in August. The processing time may vary depending on where you live. Also, if you don't supply them with all the necessary documents, I'm sure it can take a lot longer.

One thing that has changed since the previous poster went through this process is that nowadays, she will not be authorized to work upon entry into the country. When you apply for her change of status (to permanent resident), you can also apply for a temporary employment authorization document. In our case it took about two months to receive the EAD (change of status took six).

Check out visajourney.com It's THE website for the info you want. Most of the opinions that I read said that the K-1 fiance route was usually a bit quickerto get her here. It also adds the benefit of giving you and your fiance' 3 three months to see how she reacts to the reality of being here before finalizing things. Be sure to check the updated fees and filing centers. I deliberated for over a year before finally sending in my I-129F last week. The night before I sent it I found out that the fee had increased from $170 to $455.! And I had to send it direct to California instead of Nebraska. Changes as of July 1 I think?

Whichever way you go best of luck!