Christian- () • 09/19/2011 17:23:32 PM
Out of status for 3 years, unemployed, and WITHOUT a driver's license but in the darkest time of my life, a fortune cookie I opened says "You will be free of the heavy burdens you have been carrying." Here's my story which all occured this year - 2011.
April 26 - Married to a US Citizen in a Town Hall.
June 27 - Filed all necessary forms to INS. (G-325A, I-130, I-131, I-485, I-693, I-765, I-864EZ) Note that my wife and I didn't hire a lawyer. WE just used the book "Fiance & Marriage Visas" and saved us a fortune.
June 29 - Email notification received (I-797C Notice of Action) stating our petition has been received.
July 7 - Biometric appt letters received for July 29, 2011 (AOS) and Aug. 2 for Employment Authorization. I called INS and requested it to be done on the same date. INS said just bring the forms on either date I choose.
Aug 2 - Biometric performed in Union, NJ. Finger printing was done in 10 mins but the wait lasted 2 hours.
Aug 14 - Interview appointment letter received for Sept 12 in Newark, NJ
Aug 30 - EAD card received in the mail. Next day I renewed my NJ license.
Sept 12 - Interview with INS and was approved for Green Card. 2 Year Conditional!
Sept 16 - Welcome letter from INS received.
Sept 19 - Green Card arrived in the mail.
It only took less than 3 months to received my GC from the moment I sent my forms. No lawyer necessary as long as you research hard. The day of interview will probably be the worst day. Fortunately for us, the immigration officer never separated us and was very professional. We prepared for days regarding what questions they might ask but the questions she asked us was very simple (How did you meet? Parents names? Birthday of each person? Home address?) She then requested for pictures. I brought in 50 samples all together from wedding pix to different occations. Then I showed her proofs that we live together. Lease agreement, Joint accounts, utility bills with both our names. The tormenting part was waiting nervous for 2 hours. The interview itself only lasted for 10 mins. I actually broke down in tears going down the elevator as my INS ordeal just came to an end. My advice to all applicants is FIRST, pray without ceasing for HE will give you the desire of your heart. Research and Prepare relentlessly. Triple check before sending forms so it doesn't come back. On the day of the interview, make sure you know your spouse inside and out, your home, bills, activities, etc. Offer your petition to God and ask for the biggest favor of your life. In the end He will never fail. Relax because if it's meant to be, it will BE. Good luck to all.
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