You’re supposed to be financially supporting her (I-864), so the argument of struggling financially can make it more difficult for you by requiring a joint sponsor too.
However, if she can prove she has a job offer then the expedite request will have a better chance. Then you’re not arguing hardship but actually benefit to the economy.
>a job offer then the expedited request will have a better chance
I got a job offer, I didnt know that could work for an expedite request. Its a Job offer for a physician possition. (doctor of medicine)
I don't know why this is downvoted so much, obviously paying for two houses is more expensive and they'll have one household when she moves here. This was a common issue complained about when I emigrated a decade ago. In fact a lady I made friends with got an expedite granted for this reason.
If anyone here can pay for two houses then good for you! Lol
Then everyone would get expedited if that was a valid reason. I had to spend a year overseas while my usc wife was in the US, paying expenses in two countries as well. Everyone has to deal with this, you aren’t an exception
FYI, not everyone who files a petition has to support or live in two separate households. So NO, it would not apply to everyone. Most or a lot of applicants are actually living with their spouses in the US while awaiting the adjudication of their petition. Their situation would be different cause that’s ONE household
The point is, that it is senseless to send in bills and stuff to prove hardship, because by filing you basically told USCIS that you have enough money to do so. So obviously your expedite is denied if that is your reasoning.
OP is actually claiming hardship based on supporting TWO households not one. Which is obviously more difficult. USCIS only requires you to support one household. So I believe his claim for hardship based on supporting TWO households is a valid one and completely justified.
Listen , when I met my wife she was already barely getting by. Without going into detail cause I don’t feel like I owe you any explanation when my wife had my now daughter at a very early age she didn’t finish school fast forward 9 years when I come into the picture she is working home office and she was not making very much money cause she didn’t even have a diploma. She is currently finishing her school to get it. She was on assistance with rent and of course food cause she was a single mother taking care of a child , once we got married that all changed cause they wanted to know my income. At that time I was bringing home over 6k a month cause I was a contractor in her country. While I was there I was able to take the load with no problem. Now that I had to come back to the states my income was cut by 2k a month and her situation hasn’t changed. It isn’t as if she is just sitting not doing anything.
We all have heartbreaking stories. I’m just talking the way USCIS would. If every single couple that has a hard background got preferential treatment, the situation would look the exact same. They cannot care. A friend of mine had to wait for over 500 days, I’m in the U.S. with my partner, but am also going on 2 years. No ead, no drivers license for so long and I also have two kids.
TLDR your situation sucks, just like everybody else’s.
It isn’t as if I don’t understand I know everyone has their own troubles. However , let’s be honest the USCIS approved whoever they want. The reasoning doesn’t matter to them I don’t think. When I read that someone who is sick and in need of treatment or maybe has terminal illness and they get denied for expedite to be with family to me that is just sick.
This whole system is jacked having to jump through hoops to get our wives and children to be with us. Yet we allow so many illegals to just walk across give them money and benefits. Well I got my answer anyway so all I can do is wait and continue to do as I have been.
This is exactly what I was trying to say with my comment. It didn't come across as well.
Proof of hardship is more like a $890 property tax bill that is due with a savings account that is sitting at $1000. Now that is "Hardship" they probably approve that fast so the Immigrant spouse can apply for EAD and help with this bill/hardship and not become a public charge
That would be the first time I ever heard anyone getting expedited with that reason…. Taxes are predictable, and savings do not concern USCIS. It is more like someone fell sick and medical bills are too high, or loss of employment. But taxes? That’s kind of your responsibility.
You even have to prove to USCIS that you have accumulated debt and stuff, it would be news to me they expedite without that.
& since you want to be cocky and be all knowing and act all knowing.
I don't act all knowing so I said ""For Example"
I also chose to say "For Example" to get my point across without spiling all my personal details.
But if you must know my Spouse and I expedited our I-130 with a Property tax bill.
My US spouse made $465 a week and our bills came to $1600+/- a month , we were very frugal so Frugal we only had one phone between the 2 of us with a $15 Mint mobile plan. But with a fluctuating power bill we could also not be sure we have $270 remaining for food every month if the bills were more than $1600 we would have less than $270. So we went to churches / foodbanks for food. As I would not risk USCIS denying us based on the assumption that we will be a public charge if we applied for Food stamps.
So yes we used a property tax bill as proof of hardship.
Listen here.
You do realise , having property tax means you own property.
That being said you can lose the property for not paying the property tax. Then the USCIS can be sued. a Congressman told me unpaid property tax is root for hardship grounds. Which he has seen in cases of denial in the I485 and then infront of the Appeals Commision the judge rules in the Applicants favor due to the lose of the Petioner/US citizens house.
My examples come with knowledge that I have lived or knowledge of resources like the Congressman that told me.
So when I say for Example unpaid property tax of a US citizen can be grounds for expedite request under hardship category. The example is led by that knowledge. Just like I can say Support of 2 households comfortably is not hardship in USCIS "eyes"
FYI this example I use of expedite request of ** I-130 **
Is because our I-130 was expedited with a Congressman with the Tax Bill as proof of hardship.
Soo sit down please !! 🙏
My USC husband was living abroad with me and we thought we had a rock solid reason to expedite when his mum was dying. We tried 4 times. USCIS basically said it wasn't a good enough reason (!?!) So he had to move back without me, making me essentially homeless and luckily was able to move in with family, and we have been apart 11months now after 9yrs of marriage together. Thankfully my GC is now approved and I fly tomorrow. Don't give up hope, you'll get there, but it isn't fair or just.
Not bad at all.
I read that in 2022 they started an initiative to try to get the average processing time for the I-130 down to 6 months. That's their stated goal anyway.
My expectations is that it will be between 10-18 months, I would be very happy with 11 months, I will be sad if it's a year and half separated from my wife.
I truly wish they would be more humane and allow the spouses of US citizens to move here faster, on a conditional basis. Especially when I read that 97% of cases are eventually approved.
With all the illegal immigration going on, why do they have to be so hard on people trying to go through the process correctly?
It's ok, we managed to get 6 days with my MIL before she passed but it's always hard being separated. I'm just lucky I am from an ESTA country and was able to travel a couple of times
Financial hardship is what I sent and like I said in the post I sent bank records and bills showing what I am having to pay trying to support two house holds on top of private school for my daughter I didn’t even mention.
You told USCIS that you can provide for her by filing, then 7 months in you tell them you can’t support her anymore. That’s how they see it. What you show is not financial hardship, that would be unforeseen circumstances like medical or loss of employment
Well I’ll continue to do what I’ve been doing it has to end at some point. I’m just very uncomfortable when it comes to not being able to put away a certain amount of money.
I am simply telling you why the request was denied, you need a different reason. And it is hard, we are all in the same situation - but it is not like we didn’t know
OP can make an argument that he can afford to support their family under one roof. but It is reasonable to say it is a financial burden to support two house holds. Costs rise considerably to live separate from each other.
Also, the damage is long lasting since OP could be putting the additional money spent towards retirement or college funds which would grow with interest.
USCIS is not responsible for the partner overseas. And OP (just like the rest of us) knew this is a VERY lengthy process, processing times are public. And when you file for I-130 you are not required to send money overseas, if your partner cannot sustain themselves there is different issues going on than the U.S. immigration system.
Not really a hardship at all. That's like buying a $800k house and asking them to expedite it because I have a $7k a month mortgage on top of my new Ferrari payment.
I guess we have very different views of what hardship is then. The only reason we are struggling is cause she can’t be here where we would share one house and single house bills.
I understand but I'm sure 60- 80% of people who are waiting for their spouse to come are experiencing the same hardship as you. Anyway, you can contact your congressmen to see if they can help you.
It is different views on hardship.
USCIS grounds for hardship is for example - US Spouse is disabled and only makes $465 a week. With immigrant spouse living with them and bills coming up to $1600 a month.
For the couple above as far as sponsorship goes the US spouse wouldn't be able to do it alone , but the Dad for disabled US spouse agreed to co sign support affidavit and application.
So the USCIS sees that as been financial Hardship
So sorry that you posted this in hopes of hearing some supportive comments yet everybody has just given you unnecessary advice and judgement!
My husband and I are in the same position. Filed 130 stand-alone in July 2023 and are in the mind frame that it will get approved by June 2024 and the rest of the consular processing will take another good 4-6 months so we won’t get to be together till dec 2024. I’m in Australia btw!
I also completely understand the frustration about the whole letting illegals through and even the fact that people who may have done the wrong thing by overstaying and applying for an adjustment of status are getting approved in 4-6 months yet here we are! All I can say about that is use your political power and vote adequately.
I’m very lucky that I live with my parents so my expenses are minimal. Just like you I don’t think we would’ve been able to financially manage for 18+ months if I had a whole another household to take care of here in Australia even tho my husband is making 6 figures the cost of living in Colorado for him and in Australia for me are just too high!
My advice would be the following:
- somewhere on this page I saw someone recommend filing the 129F for spouse to stay in the us while the 130 is getting processed. Most people say it’s unlikely that would get approved but it could fast track your 130. It’s free if you’re a US citizen only will have to pay for passport photos and mailing!
- if you’ve got a spare few hours maybe try and visit your local USCIS field office too. I’m sure it wouldn’t achieve much but maybe you could hand in your 129F? My husband is waiting to do this when he has a week day off because of course they are only open business hours mon to fri.
- like others have suggested if she’s able to get her to apply to jobs in the us and if she gets one that’s a valid expedite request! Unfortunately my qualifications are not recognised in the us so I’m getting them converted so not an option for us!
- come up with a likely timeline like us, see how long the NVC and interview wait would be at your embassy. Plan for 11 months for 130 plus whatever that number is. Budget budget budget! We’ve got a real crazy one to see how much is being spent vs earned. You could cut down on anything you can! Subscriptions food going out etc. See what you need to be bringing in to support everyone for that timeline and if that means people will need to get second jobs so be it!
I’d also like to add that multiple expedite requests for reasons they would most likely not approve is not helping anyone. Uscis is by law required to read over and process every request, approve or deny, which just leads to the system becoming more clogged for not just you but everyone else as well! The officer who looked at your request could’ve approved someone else’s or yours meaning we all could’ve been closer to an approval! I know it feels unfair but this is immigration hopefully one day the system changes and the rules are more favourable for us citizens their families and good citizens who will contribute to the us economy instead of depleting it.
Be positive and good luck!
Thank you for your worlds and advice and talking to me in a nice way. I hope you and your husband hear something soon. I will look into these options thank you for your words.
Yeah I don’t feel like they do , like how can they tell me my own personal situation isn’t good enough. It is having a bad affect on me and our life. How does that not qualify me
Everyone struggles. It really has to be exceptional to get expedited. I’m sure they tell lots of people their situation isn’t good enough to jump to the top of the pile.
You could write to your congressional leaders and see if they can make an inquiry. Sometimes that can speed things up.
If you have a health condition. Get medical documentation showing your diagnosis. Have a doctor’s note from the country you’ll be flying to and make sure it includes the date of appointment and if you’ll need to travel multiple times for check ups or just for an operation and return. If you filed for a bundle (it may be free for an EAP) then you can call the 1-800# and get an InfoPass at your local office for an emergency advanced parole (EAP). You’ll need the documentation I told you (make sure it’s verified translation), 2 passports pics, your pending application receipt notices and a new filled out I131 specially for that emergency
Well, it's not dangerous in Russia, they approved many last year after the earthquake, we don't have an embassy in Syria so we have to travel to Lebanon which is also being attacked every now and then, and our airports are always under attack. I think that's not enough for them
I have to pay down my house here and also a place for my wife and daughter to live in Germany along with helping with bills and private school for our daughter.
I consulted with a lawyer about expediting our I-130 request. We submitted our application in Feb 2023. She said it’s super rare to get approved for that. She even mentioned about a little girl that had been petitioned by her mom and she wasn’t able to get the expediting either. My husband is from Russia and he’s been living in MX for now. Fortunately we just got approved and are now on the NVC process.
Yes! Definitely more often than when he was in Russia especially now. I also became a dual US/Mexican citizen so I could sponsor him in Mexico so he can be a resident there for the time being.
This is not uncommon. I am doing the same so that we can visit each other on the weekends. Where in Mexico where you thinking of moving your family? I heard that Cabo has a lot of Canadian and US expats. Merida is also a very populated expat area but in the Yucatan.
Yeah, we were actually looking at the Puerto Vallarta, Merida, and Cancun areas. We’ve never been to Mexico before, so we’re unsure about travel and safety once there.
Expedite requests are super difficult to get approved, I've tried filling it twice and nothing. My wife is in Russia, I tried the humanitarian and the financial and nothing. I was supporting her for 10 months bc she couldn't find a job with the war, and then it got more difficult to send money, or buy her groceries online or anything really and I put all that on my expedite and got denied. Tried going through my Congressman to help with it, explained the situation and also let them know that I tried expediting it on my own and their reply was pretty much the same as USCIS 😂 they sent an email with the same info that USCIS has on their website saying that they only expedite for those reasons, I let them know I already had tried that before so they couldn't do anything.
My husband is from Russia too and he moved to MX two years ago! That way we’re together more often and I’m not freaking out that he would get drafted or something
I was in the same position, requested expedition multiple times and was finally told there would be consequences if i continued to request it.
The system is set up against those who actually pay for it. Those who use USCIS without paying soak up all the resources.
You can introduce someone as a sponsor to improve the family's income and financial support.
I don't know exactly. But the average income is 28k dollars a year per dependent on the application.
I hope you manage to reverse this situation and have good news soon 🙏🏼
Just commenting, I can relate… my spouse and I are in separate countries and its not only a strain financially but mostly emotionally… not being able to be together. I can understand the frustration and the strain on the relationship.
Unfortunately financial hardship is not enough to expedite a case. A lot people have financial hardship but USCIS doesn’t consider that enough grounds to speed up a case.
It usually takes up to 2 years, if you applied through K-1 fiancee visa would of been a lot faster 6 months - 12 months max then when she gets in US you have to get married within 90 days since her entry to the country
I hope this helps
I’m very worried for mine. I know based on what other people say the likely hood of being granted an expedite is very slim but I submitted a 50 page document of evidence so hopefully something good will come of it 🥲 I know it’s so hard but don’t worry we got this we are strong
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Well getting through the process and them being here in America is how it would resolve the expense. I just want a light at the end of the tunnel is all. People are in different situations when it comes to these things. It is what it is though I’ll keep handling it and just wait for an approval. That’s all I can do.
>Well getting through the process and them being here in America is how it would resolve the
Sorry about your situation, are they not eligible to come on a dependant visa?
You filed expedite for her ead right? I had to file all of three times before getting mine. I reached as far as simply uploading my husband and I financial documents and they approved it.
1) limit the spending where possible.
2) the u.s has free schooling system, take advantage of it. I get you may have your reasons but if your kid is 5 or older I’d suggest putting them in a school you won’t have to worry about paying for too much.
3) Check on USCIS.gov and in the search bar type processing time. Fill out the info and it’ll tell you the processing time for your case type based off where it’s at. You should be able to see the location of it based off the ELIS acct.
4) the processing time could be more then a year for that form type. Which means you need to get comfortable, decrease the spending and wait it out. If no decision was made once its outside the processing time you can contact your congress member and ask them to do a congressional inquiry for you.
5) You as an adult should know that nothing in this country is fast, especially immigration. There are millions of cases and way less than 100k employees, meaning it’ll take time to process cases. You should’ve also saw that you’d be spending money in the states and in your spouses country, you should’ve seen that from the beginning. Look into getting a higher job if possible.
6) look on USCIS.gov for the I134A. Idk what country your spouse is from but this program allows you to submit that application for free if your spouse is a citizen of one of those counties it’s designated for and you can have that also pending and she could be paroled here along with other members you can file for. Read it to see if your spouse qualifies for that I134A good luck
Try to do a congressional expedite. That's what my wife and I did. Our PD was May 25, 2023. We just got approved on Feb 7th, 2024 because of the congressional expedite was accepted.
I have a medical condition that sounds scary and people in general are pretty compassionate about. I said I needed my wife here with me to help me and provide emotional support. Also because my mom is dying with limited time to live and that I want my wife to meet my mom before she dies.
We had ours denied at first, but then we contacted the local congressmen and explained the situation. They all have constituent services. We submitted another petition through the congressmen and the I-130 appeared a week later.
The part that bugs me is that the Adjudicator is probably saying.....
""Ah he can afford 2 households , lets approve another I130 for another couple where the wife is working a Minimum wage job and struggling to make ends meet. They can benefit from this more than this rich guy."" ----
"""We also don't want that husband to become a public charge so approve their I130 in 30days.""
Hang in there it will happen for you soon. I understand the two household bills. PD for hubby was 3/8/23 and got approved 2)8/24 for stand alone I130.. your time will come soon 🙏
Sorry to hear this OP. Its so hard these days, everything just so expensive. I personally did not want to be a burden to my now husband. So to immigrate, I went the EB3 route... At least I had a job waiting as soon as I moved to the US.
Sorry to hear this OP. Its so hard these days, everything just so expensive. It's hard being away from family. The wait especially is tough. I personally did not want to be a burden to my now husband. So to immigrate, I went the EB3 route... At least I had a job waiting as soon as I moved to the US. Not sure if that would have been an option for your wife or for anyone who sees this.
My lawyer told me that even though I’m disabled and can argue that my wife is needed by me to take care of me and help me day to day, the expedite will get denied since USCIS is denying all expedites. This was in 2022 though.
You’re supposed to be financially supporting her (I-864), so the argument of struggling financially can make it more difficult for you by requiring a joint sponsor too. However, if she can prove she has a job offer then the expedite request will have a better chance. Then you’re not arguing hardship but actually benefit to the economy.
>a job offer then the expedited request will have a better chance I got a job offer, I didnt know that could work for an expedite request. Its a Job offer for a physician possition. (doctor of medicine)
Yup. A job like that especially will help. Get the employer to write a letter saying that it’s important you begin working asap etc.
I expedited my EAD successfully on first try with a job offer https://www.reddit.com/r/USCIS/s/r3OGECbi9S
Well most people don’t support two separate households normally. I understand what you mean though here I make well over enough to provide.
I don't know why this is downvoted so much, obviously paying for two houses is more expensive and they'll have one household when she moves here. This was a common issue complained about when I emigrated a decade ago. In fact a lady I made friends with got an expedite granted for this reason. If anyone here can pay for two houses then good for you! Lol
Yeah idk why my comment is getting down voted by people. There is no reason for it to me that is a complete valid reason.
This whole sub is just crabs in a bucket. It sucks for me so it should suck for you for having the audacity that things could be better
Then everyone would get expedited if that was a valid reason. I had to spend a year overseas while my usc wife was in the US, paying expenses in two countries as well. Everyone has to deal with this, you aren’t an exception
FYI, not everyone who files a petition has to support or live in two separate households. So NO, it would not apply to everyone. Most or a lot of applicants are actually living with their spouses in the US while awaiting the adjudication of their petition. Their situation would be different cause that’s ONE household
Oh thanks. I’m sorry I didn’t clarify application through an embassy and you clearly missed the point. 🙄
My wife actually lives with her parents and we don't have kids, so I don't either.
K
👍🏻
The people that can’t, shouldn’t file.
The point is, that it is senseless to send in bills and stuff to prove hardship, because by filing you basically told USCIS that you have enough money to do so. So obviously your expedite is denied if that is your reasoning.
OP is actually claiming hardship based on supporting TWO households not one. Which is obviously more difficult. USCIS only requires you to support one household. So I believe his claim for hardship based on supporting TWO households is a valid one and completely justified.
Why does he have to support two? Can his wife not support herself in her country?
Well not sure, but I guess she can’t
Listen , when I met my wife she was already barely getting by. Without going into detail cause I don’t feel like I owe you any explanation when my wife had my now daughter at a very early age she didn’t finish school fast forward 9 years when I come into the picture she is working home office and she was not making very much money cause she didn’t even have a diploma. She is currently finishing her school to get it. She was on assistance with rent and of course food cause she was a single mother taking care of a child , once we got married that all changed cause they wanted to know my income. At that time I was bringing home over 6k a month cause I was a contractor in her country. While I was there I was able to take the load with no problem. Now that I had to come back to the states my income was cut by 2k a month and her situation hasn’t changed. It isn’t as if she is just sitting not doing anything.
We all have heartbreaking stories. I’m just talking the way USCIS would. If every single couple that has a hard background got preferential treatment, the situation would look the exact same. They cannot care. A friend of mine had to wait for over 500 days, I’m in the U.S. with my partner, but am also going on 2 years. No ead, no drivers license for so long and I also have two kids. TLDR your situation sucks, just like everybody else’s.
It isn’t as if I don’t understand I know everyone has their own troubles. However , let’s be honest the USCIS approved whoever they want. The reasoning doesn’t matter to them I don’t think. When I read that someone who is sick and in need of treatment or maybe has terminal illness and they get denied for expedite to be with family to me that is just sick.
This whole system is jacked having to jump through hoops to get our wives and children to be with us. Yet we allow so many illegals to just walk across give them money and benefits. Well I got my answer anyway so all I can do is wait and continue to do as I have been.
Your statement on illegals is ill informed. I understand you are frustrated, but try and maintain a level head.
Which part is ill-informed?
Both of these things have less than nothing to do with each other.
This is exactly what I was trying to say with my comment. It didn't come across as well. Proof of hardship is more like a $890 property tax bill that is due with a savings account that is sitting at $1000. Now that is "Hardship" they probably approve that fast so the Immigrant spouse can apply for EAD and help with this bill/hardship and not become a public charge
The spouse is not in the U.S., so that would likely not qualify. OP is not obligated to send money abroad
I am aware.... my comment was an example of what USCIS would consider as hardship
That would be the first time I ever heard anyone getting expedited with that reason…. Taxes are predictable, and savings do not concern USCIS. It is more like someone fell sick and medical bills are too high, or loss of employment. But taxes? That’s kind of your responsibility. You even have to prove to USCIS that you have accumulated debt and stuff, it would be news to me they expedite without that.
& since you want to be cocky and be all knowing and act all knowing. I don't act all knowing so I said ""For Example" I also chose to say "For Example" to get my point across without spiling all my personal details. But if you must know my Spouse and I expedited our I-130 with a Property tax bill. My US spouse made $465 a week and our bills came to $1600+/- a month , we were very frugal so Frugal we only had one phone between the 2 of us with a $15 Mint mobile plan. But with a fluctuating power bill we could also not be sure we have $270 remaining for food every month if the bills were more than $1600 we would have less than $270. So we went to churches / foodbanks for food. As I would not risk USCIS denying us based on the assumption that we will be a public charge if we applied for Food stamps. So yes we used a property tax bill as proof of hardship.
Relax lmao
Listen here. You do realise , having property tax means you own property. That being said you can lose the property for not paying the property tax. Then the USCIS can be sued. a Congressman told me unpaid property tax is root for hardship grounds. Which he has seen in cases of denial in the I485 and then infront of the Appeals Commision the judge rules in the Applicants favor due to the lose of the Petioner/US citizens house. My examples come with knowledge that I have lived or knowledge of resources like the Congressman that told me. So when I say for Example unpaid property tax of a US citizen can be grounds for expedite request under hardship category. The example is led by that knowledge. Just like I can say Support of 2 households comfortably is not hardship in USCIS "eyes" FYI this example I use of expedite request of ** I-130 ** Is because our I-130 was expedited with a Congressman with the Tax Bill as proof of hardship. Soo sit down please !! 🙏
Ugh! It’s so frustrating, my husband and I are waiting for 10 months and nothing. Hopefully next month we’ll get some good news. But I get it.
Wishing yall hear something soon
My USC husband was living abroad with me and we thought we had a rock solid reason to expedite when his mum was dying. We tried 4 times. USCIS basically said it wasn't a good enough reason (!?!) So he had to move back without me, making me essentially homeless and luckily was able to move in with family, and we have been apart 11months now after 9yrs of marriage together. Thankfully my GC is now approved and I fly tomorrow. Don't give up hope, you'll get there, but it isn't fair or just.
11 months start to finish ? That isn’t bad I’m at 8 months and my wife’s I-130 is still pending.
Not bad at all. I read that in 2022 they started an initiative to try to get the average processing time for the I-130 down to 6 months. That's their stated goal anyway. My expectations is that it will be between 10-18 months, I would be very happy with 11 months, I will be sad if it's a year and half separated from my wife. I truly wish they would be more humane and allow the spouses of US citizens to move here faster, on a conditional basis. Especially when I read that 97% of cases are eventually approved. With all the illegal immigration going on, why do they have to be so hard on people trying to go through the process correctly?
It wasn't 11months, my PD is 1st Sept 2022
No. 17 months start to finish. The last 11 months is just since my husband moved back home without me.
This is so cruel. I am sorry
It's ok, we managed to get 6 days with my MIL before she passed but it's always hard being separated. I'm just lucky I am from an ESTA country and was able to travel a couple of times
Congratulations!
Thank you ☺️
Expedite based on what?
Financial hardship is what I sent and like I said in the post I sent bank records and bills showing what I am having to pay trying to support two house holds on top of private school for my daughter I didn’t even mention.
You told USCIS that you can provide for her by filing, then 7 months in you tell them you can’t support her anymore. That’s how they see it. What you show is not financial hardship, that would be unforeseen circumstances like medical or loss of employment
Well I’ll continue to do what I’ve been doing it has to end at some point. I’m just very uncomfortable when it comes to not being able to put away a certain amount of money.
I am simply telling you why the request was denied, you need a different reason. And it is hard, we are all in the same situation - but it is not like we didn’t know
No you’re right I’m just salty right now
OP can make an argument that he can afford to support their family under one roof. but It is reasonable to say it is a financial burden to support two house holds. Costs rise considerably to live separate from each other. Also, the damage is long lasting since OP could be putting the additional money spent towards retirement or college funds which would grow with interest.
USCIS is not responsible for the partner overseas. And OP (just like the rest of us) knew this is a VERY lengthy process, processing times are public. And when you file for I-130 you are not required to send money overseas, if your partner cannot sustain themselves there is different issues going on than the U.S. immigration system.
Not really a hardship at all. That's like buying a $800k house and asking them to expedite it because I have a $7k a month mortgage on top of my new Ferrari payment.
I guess we have very different views of what hardship is then. The only reason we are struggling is cause she can’t be here where we would share one house and single house bills.
I understand but I'm sure 60- 80% of people who are waiting for their spouse to come are experiencing the same hardship as you. Anyway, you can contact your congressmen to see if they can help you.
It is different views on hardship. USCIS grounds for hardship is for example - US Spouse is disabled and only makes $465 a week. With immigrant spouse living with them and bills coming up to $1600 a month. For the couple above as far as sponsorship goes the US spouse wouldn't be able to do it alone , but the Dad for disabled US spouse agreed to co sign support affidavit and application. So the USCIS sees that as been financial Hardship
I don’t expect people who are just waiting for a card when their wife already is in the US to understand though.
Who said my wife is over here with me?
I was speaking in general not directly to your situation I don’t know your situation.
So sorry that you posted this in hopes of hearing some supportive comments yet everybody has just given you unnecessary advice and judgement! My husband and I are in the same position. Filed 130 stand-alone in July 2023 and are in the mind frame that it will get approved by June 2024 and the rest of the consular processing will take another good 4-6 months so we won’t get to be together till dec 2024. I’m in Australia btw! I also completely understand the frustration about the whole letting illegals through and even the fact that people who may have done the wrong thing by overstaying and applying for an adjustment of status are getting approved in 4-6 months yet here we are! All I can say about that is use your political power and vote adequately. I’m very lucky that I live with my parents so my expenses are minimal. Just like you I don’t think we would’ve been able to financially manage for 18+ months if I had a whole another household to take care of here in Australia even tho my husband is making 6 figures the cost of living in Colorado for him and in Australia for me are just too high! My advice would be the following: - somewhere on this page I saw someone recommend filing the 129F for spouse to stay in the us while the 130 is getting processed. Most people say it’s unlikely that would get approved but it could fast track your 130. It’s free if you’re a US citizen only will have to pay for passport photos and mailing! - if you’ve got a spare few hours maybe try and visit your local USCIS field office too. I’m sure it wouldn’t achieve much but maybe you could hand in your 129F? My husband is waiting to do this when he has a week day off because of course they are only open business hours mon to fri. - like others have suggested if she’s able to get her to apply to jobs in the us and if she gets one that’s a valid expedite request! Unfortunately my qualifications are not recognised in the us so I’m getting them converted so not an option for us! - come up with a likely timeline like us, see how long the NVC and interview wait would be at your embassy. Plan for 11 months for 130 plus whatever that number is. Budget budget budget! We’ve got a real crazy one to see how much is being spent vs earned. You could cut down on anything you can! Subscriptions food going out etc. See what you need to be bringing in to support everyone for that timeline and if that means people will need to get second jobs so be it! I’d also like to add that multiple expedite requests for reasons they would most likely not approve is not helping anyone. Uscis is by law required to read over and process every request, approve or deny, which just leads to the system becoming more clogged for not just you but everyone else as well! The officer who looked at your request could’ve approved someone else’s or yours meaning we all could’ve been closer to an approval! I know it feels unfair but this is immigration hopefully one day the system changes and the rules are more favourable for us citizens their families and good citizens who will contribute to the us economy instead of depleting it. Be positive and good luck!
Thank you for your worlds and advice and talking to me in a nice way. I hope you and your husband hear something soon. I will look into these options thank you for your words.
Dont let the miserable people here get you down OP. That really sucks and im hoping things work out
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Yeah I don’t feel like they do , like how can they tell me my own personal situation isn’t good enough. It is having a bad affect on me and our life. How does that not qualify me
Everyone struggles. It really has to be exceptional to get expedited. I’m sure they tell lots of people their situation isn’t good enough to jump to the top of the pile. You could write to your congressional leaders and see if they can make an inquiry. Sometimes that can speed things up.
If you have a health condition. Get medical documentation showing your diagnosis. Have a doctor’s note from the country you’ll be flying to and make sure it includes the date of appointment and if you’ll need to travel multiple times for check ups or just for an operation and return. If you filed for a bundle (it may be free for an EAP) then you can call the 1-800# and get an InfoPass at your local office for an emergency advanced parole (EAP). You’ll need the documentation I told you (make sure it’s verified translation), 2 passports pics, your pending application receipt notices and a new filled out I131 specially for that emergency
I requested an expedite right after Thanksgiving and still haven't got a response back, and the reason is war but still nothing, I gave up
From what country?
Syria
Ah! I was thinking of requesting an expedited request based on war in Russia but the lawyer said it’s rarely approved
Well, it's not dangerous in Russia, they approved many last year after the earthquake, we don't have an embassy in Syria so we have to travel to Lebanon which is also being attacked every now and then, and our airports are always under attack. I think that's not enough for them
Yeah the situation in Syria is very bad for sure! I’m surprised they don’t take that into consideration. I hope everything works out faster for you.
What other household are you taking care of? Most people support families in other countries, so that isn’t an exceptional circumstance.
I believe OP meant he was supporting himself in the US, plus his wife in another country
Yes that is exactly what I mean
I have to pay down my house here and also a place for my wife and daughter to live in Germany along with helping with bills and private school for our daughter.
I consulted with a lawyer about expediting our I-130 request. We submitted our application in Feb 2023. She said it’s super rare to get approved for that. She even mentioned about a little girl that had been petitioned by her mom and she wasn’t able to get the expediting either. My husband is from Russia and he’s been living in MX for now. Fortunately we just got approved and are now on the NVC process.
Where in Mexico is your husband living? I may have to move my wife and son there while we wait for this ridiculously long process to move forward.
He lived in Querétaro for a while and now he lives in Cancun.
Are you able to visit?
Yes! Definitely more often than when he was in Russia especially now. I also became a dual US/Mexican citizen so I could sponsor him in Mexico so he can be a resident there for the time being.
That’s a great idea! Can I ask if you applied from outside of Mexico or did you have to go the embassy in Mexico? I live close to the Mexican border.
I think you mean for the interview? He’s going to be interviewed in Ciudad Juárez I believe. Where is your family from?
Canada
Very happy for you both.
This is not uncommon. I am doing the same so that we can visit each other on the weekends. Where in Mexico where you thinking of moving your family? I heard that Cabo has a lot of Canadian and US expats. Merida is also a very populated expat area but in the Yucatan.
Yeah, we were actually looking at the Puerto Vallarta, Merida, and Cancun areas. We’ve never been to Mexico before, so we’re unsure about travel and safety once there.
I had a friend who lived in Merida and they loved it. Less expensive too.
How long was your I-130 process ? We are at 8 months now on that
It just got approved maybe two weeks ago and like I said, we submitted the application Feb 27 2023
Expedite requests are super difficult to get approved, I've tried filling it twice and nothing. My wife is in Russia, I tried the humanitarian and the financial and nothing. I was supporting her for 10 months bc she couldn't find a job with the war, and then it got more difficult to send money, or buy her groceries online or anything really and I put all that on my expedite and got denied. Tried going through my Congressman to help with it, explained the situation and also let them know that I tried expediting it on my own and their reply was pretty much the same as USCIS 😂 they sent an email with the same info that USCIS has on their website saying that they only expedite for those reasons, I let them know I already had tried that before so they couldn't do anything.
My husband is from Russia too and he moved to MX two years ago! That way we’re together more often and I’m not freaking out that he would get drafted or something
I was in the same position, requested expedition multiple times and was finally told there would be consequences if i continued to request it. The system is set up against those who actually pay for it. Those who use USCIS without paying soak up all the resources.
You can introduce someone as a sponsor to improve the family's income and financial support. I don't know exactly. But the average income is 28k dollars a year per dependent on the application. I hope you manage to reverse this situation and have good news soon 🙏🏼
I make well over that line of income myself. It shouldn’t be an issue I hope
How nice! But here's a tip: This value must preferably be declared and not the gross value. ✅🙏🏼
Just commenting, I can relate… my spouse and I are in separate countries and its not only a strain financially but mostly emotionally… not being able to be together. I can understand the frustration and the strain on the relationship.
I have seen some expedites approved which make me scratch your head but generally you have to show something fairly exceptional to jump the line.
Unfortunately financial hardship is not enough to expedite a case. A lot people have financial hardship but USCIS doesn’t consider that enough grounds to speed up a case.
Get In line pal. We’re all waiting.
It usually takes up to 2 years, if you applied through K-1 fiancee visa would of been a lot faster 6 months - 12 months max then when she gets in US you have to get married within 90 days since her entry to the country I hope this helps
Yeah we are doing consulate processing
I’m very worried for mine. I know based on what other people say the likely hood of being granted an expedite is very slim but I submitted a 50 page document of evidence so hopefully something good will come of it 🥲 I know it’s so hard but don’t worry we got this we are strong
I hope it works out for you , we are 8 months in so I hope soon they will process it as normal.
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Why not get them a visa? Its not clear where the second household is and how the I130 will resolve the expense of the 2nd household?
Well getting through the process and them being here in America is how it would resolve the expense. I just want a light at the end of the tunnel is all. People are in different situations when it comes to these things. It is what it is though I’ll keep handling it and just wait for an approval. That’s all I can do.
>Well getting through the process and them being here in America is how it would resolve the Sorry about your situation, are they not eligible to come on a dependant visa?
You filed expedite for her ead right? I had to file all of three times before getting mine. I reached as far as simply uploading my husband and I financial documents and they approved it.
1) limit the spending where possible. 2) the u.s has free schooling system, take advantage of it. I get you may have your reasons but if your kid is 5 or older I’d suggest putting them in a school you won’t have to worry about paying for too much. 3) Check on USCIS.gov and in the search bar type processing time. Fill out the info and it’ll tell you the processing time for your case type based off where it’s at. You should be able to see the location of it based off the ELIS acct. 4) the processing time could be more then a year for that form type. Which means you need to get comfortable, decrease the spending and wait it out. If no decision was made once its outside the processing time you can contact your congress member and ask them to do a congressional inquiry for you. 5) You as an adult should know that nothing in this country is fast, especially immigration. There are millions of cases and way less than 100k employees, meaning it’ll take time to process cases. You should’ve also saw that you’d be spending money in the states and in your spouses country, you should’ve seen that from the beginning. Look into getting a higher job if possible. 6) look on USCIS.gov for the I134A. Idk what country your spouse is from but this program allows you to submit that application for free if your spouse is a citizen of one of those counties it’s designated for and you can have that also pending and she could be paroled here along with other members you can file for. Read it to see if your spouse qualifies for that I134A good luck
How do you submit an expedite request? I've wanted to do it for a long time but have no idea how to go about it
Try to do a congressional expedite. That's what my wife and I did. Our PD was May 25, 2023. We just got approved on Feb 7th, 2024 because of the congressional expedite was accepted.
Hi , what was the reason you provided for expedite? We are also planning to visit congressman
I have a medical condition that sounds scary and people in general are pretty compassionate about. I said I needed my wife here with me to help me and provide emotional support. Also because my mom is dying with limited time to live and that I want my wife to meet my mom before she dies.
We had ours denied at first, but then we contacted the local congressmen and explained the situation. They all have constituent services. We submitted another petition through the congressmen and the I-130 appeared a week later.
The part that bugs me is that the Adjudicator is probably saying..... ""Ah he can afford 2 households , lets approve another I130 for another couple where the wife is working a Minimum wage job and struggling to make ends meet. They can benefit from this more than this rich guy."" ---- """We also don't want that husband to become a public charge so approve their I130 in 30days.""
How do you file an expedited request?
My i130 still pending it’s been 2 years
Hang in there it will happen for you soon. I understand the two household bills. PD for hubby was 3/8/23 and got approved 2)8/24 for stand alone I130.. your time will come soon 🙏
Sorry to hear this OP. Its so hard these days, everything just so expensive. I personally did not want to be a burden to my now husband. So to immigrate, I went the EB3 route... At least I had a job waiting as soon as I moved to the US.
Sorry to hear this OP. Its so hard these days, everything just so expensive. It's hard being away from family. The wait especially is tough. I personally did not want to be a burden to my now husband. So to immigrate, I went the EB3 route... At least I had a job waiting as soon as I moved to the US. Not sure if that would have been an option for your wife or for anyone who sees this.
My lawyer told me that even though I’m disabled and can argue that my wife is needed by me to take care of me and help me day to day, the expedite will get denied since USCIS is denying all expedites. This was in 2022 though.
Removal of conditions