Chicago C-R1 Visa Attorney

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Moving with your spouse to a new country is a big step. There are a lot of uncertainties, a different, unfamiliar culture, and, in all likelihood, a new language. While you make all these adjustments, you need a dedicated team to guide you through the complicated process of applying for and obtaining your conditional resident spouse visa. At Gilliam Law, our C-R1 visa lawyers are here to help. Our clients are our extended family, and we will work with you at every step to ensure you understand and feel heard throughout the process. We are on your side. Call us- today for a free consultation at 866-511-3422. We’re working for you.

The K-1 visa is only valid for 90 days. That means that you must marry within 90 days of your fiancé (e) entering the United States. Otherwise, the visa expires, and they will have to return to their home country. You should also note that the K-1 visa does not automatically transfer into permanent residence status (a green card) after you are married. Your new spouse will have to apply for their permanent resident status in addition to being approved for the original K-1 visa.

This process can be fairly complicated, and it’s always a good idea to hire someone who understands how to navigate the process and law. An experienced attorney can help you better understand how to best apply for a fiancé visa as well as how to approach the green card process once you are married. The latter can be an especially arduous process, and you should have someone on your side who is familiar with the law and can help you navigate the tricky application process. We understand what an exciting and worrying time this can be, and we’re ready to work with you to help increase your chances of a speedy resolution.

What is the Difference Between a C-R1 Visa and an I-R1 Visa?

While both visas are for married couples, it is crucial to know the differences. The C-R1 visa is for couples that have:

Been married for fewer than two years
The marriage must be legally valid both in the country where it took place and in the United States.
The United States citizen spouse must file a petition on behalf of the foreign spouse (form I-130) and prove the marriage is not fraudulent and that the couple intends to live together permanently

Are There Additional Requirements and Qualifications to Consider?

Beyond the basic requirements listed above, you should also be aware that to qualify for a C-R1 visa, you must:

Pass a medical examination by a qualified and authorized physician. The US consulate will provide you with a list of approved physicians.
You must pass a criminal background check.
The US citizen's spouse must demonstrate the ability to support the foreign spouse financially at 125% of the federal poverty rate. This can be achieved by supplying proof of income, assets, and tax returns.
Finally, all applicants must attend an interview at a US consulate or embassy. The legal team at Gilliam Law is here to help you at every step, and we will help you prepare for your interview.

How Do We Apply for a C-R1 Visa?

Obtaining your C-R1 visa can be a very complex process. It involves much waiting after the proper forms have been filed, which can be challenging when your future is on hold. That is why you must have a strong, compassionate, and knowledgeable team behind you to guide you through the maze. At Gilliam Law, our clients are like our family; we have your back.

A C-R1 visa is for couples who have not been married for long. Therefore, it is more difficult to prove that these marriages are not only for immigration purposes, thus the conditional status of the visa once granted.

The steps for obtaining a C-R1 visa are:

Obtain a copy of your valid marriage certificate.
File your petition (Form I-130). Your US Spouse files this petition on your behalf with USCIS. Our team is available to help you with this process to ensure all the proper information is submitted.
Gather all required documentation, such as birth certificates, financial, travel, and medical records.
Pay all required fees. Obtaining a visa can be a significant investment for a family. Be sure to plan for the appropriate budget.
Wait for approval. This is the most challenging part of the entire process for most couples. Rest assured that we are with you the whole time and can answer your questions and address your concerns. We keep you informed every step of the way.
Once the I-130 is approved, other forms need to be filed. The primary visa application needs to be filed next. Your team at Gilliam Law will help you with this form as it is the most complex.
Complete the medical exam and fingerprinting.
Attend a visa interview. Once all your documents are received, you will be scheduled for an interview to discuss your intended employment and plans in the United States. Despite the depictions of these interviews in the media and cinema, the interviewers are not trying to trick you. As long as you are honest about your relationship and reasons for immigrating, there is nothing to worry about
Wait for a decision- This can be frustrating because the system is slower than we would like. After your visa is approved, you will be required to pay a final visa processing fee and given instructions on collecting your new documents.

What Documents Do We Need?

The following documents are required for a C-R1 Visa:

A valid passport. The passport you present must be valid for six months past the date you plan to enter the US
A recent passport-style photograph
Your US citizen spouse must provide their birth certificate or a copy of their US passport if they have one.
Police certificates- You must provide police/criminal records from any country you have lived in for more than six months since you were 16.
Military history, if applicable
Documentation from required medical exam and fingerprinting.

When Should We Call an Immigration Lawyer

Moving to a new country with your spouse is a huge undertaking. It can be hard to start over. At Gilliam Law, we help shoulder some of the stress of this part of the journey so you and your spouse can focus on what is important: building your dreams. We believe in family. Call us today to schedule your free consultation at 866-511-3422 Welcome Home.

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Chicago C-R1 Visa Attorney