RW/FSUW parents/family visa

[martums]

been wondering...

Are her parents allowed to get a visa to visit?  Or her siblings?  Please tell me they can at least come over here for the wedding...  I read someplace that a visa takes about six weeks for the parents.  I've searched for this and haven't found a definitive answer.  Is this one of the benefits of marrying in the FSU, (other than saving money?)

Were most of the experienced members who got married here or in their (Western) country able to bring her immediate family over for the wedding?  How about her friends?

Marty

[Jet]

It all boils down to the traveller overcomming the presumption of immigrant intent. There isn't really anything YOU can do, other than write them a formal invitation and send an I-134 form showing that you plan to cover all their expenses whilst they are stateside. The rest is up to them.

That said, a wedding is an excellent reason for them to want to visit the US for a short period of time. So far the wife and I have been successful in getting tourist visas for my wife's father and grandmother, both on the first try. Grandma spent 3 months with us last winter/spring and papa has a 2 year multi-entry that he plans to use soon. It can be done. There are quite a few others here that have brought over relatives and friends successfully too.

good luck...

[al-c]

Although I have never tried, I have heard that the presumption of immigration can be overcome easier by your bride's parents than by your bride.  They can show roots in Russia, such as a home (especially if they own it), careers there, and family there.

Is your bride here already?  Get cracking on their visas ASAP.  The 90 day clock for you and your bride to marry is ticking away and is strictly enforced.  If the folks are not here in time for day 90, don't wait one more day.  You need to get the marriage in under the time limit.

 

[Vaughn]

Marty,

Good advice from Jet and al-c. Your future in-laws should contact their local Pony Express, who's been handling non-immigrant visa apps for the Consulate (at least in Russia) and will walk them through the procedure. They have a toll-free line from anywhere in Russia: 8-800-200-7669

You can check the general requirements at this link:

http://moscow.usembassy.gov/consular/consular.php?record_id=nivapplying

Lastly, if your loved ones have little to keep them there, author a convincing and compelling letter of invitation, taking full responsibility not only for their travel/living expenses, but for their timely return to the FSU. I can send you a successful example of this off-list.

Vaughn

PS - Our total process time a year ago was just under a month - but you must get them that letter (original) as quickly as possible - nothing happens without that.

[martums]

Thanks very much guys!  I'm not that far along yet, al-c, I've only just gotten started; just want to have a clear understanding of all of this.  There are some things I'm still unclear on.  You all are a big help.  (Dan is right-on when he calls this a community).

Thanks again,
Marty

[ccarten]

Both my wife parents have been able to get a multi-entry visa to the US without any problems.  They are from Ukraine.