Q: My fiance is from Sweden. We want to get married early in 2017 and live in USA. I already live here, with our daughter.
Which is the quickest way to get him here and be able to work ASAP? Fiance visa, go straight to a green card application, or something else?
How long does the process usually take to get a visa plus work permit, assuming we do everything we need to do immediately?
We'll definitely use a lawyer to help with the visa application process. How much should we budget for this?
Thank you!
A:
Hello, You have many different questions, but I will try my best. The two options you'd have is Fiance Visa and Consular Processing.
If you plan to marry in the U.S., the Fiance Visa is what you will need. Some think that entering with VWP/ESTA or entering with a B-2 Tourist Visa is a good idea. But in reality, that is an immigration violation that complicates matters and could cost you more in time and money. The Fiance Visa process will have a few months where the soon-to-be spouse is not allowed to work.
If you plan to marry in Sweden, you would consular process. The process would last about as long as the Fiance Visa, but after entry into the U.S., the spouse can almost immediately work.
You should shop around for an attorney. Some attorneys post their fee on their website (at least that is my practice). The USCIS government fee will increase on December 23, 2016; however, I would estimate the government cost for the Fiance Visa to be around $1800 and consular processing to be around $1200. Respectfully.
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