Q&A: Your Immigration Questions Answered

“I have a pending I-130 but was just admitted to a U.S. master’s program. Will that hurt my student-visa application?”
Generally no. Many people study on F-1 status and later adjust through marriage. Just be sure you meet adjustment-of-status eligibility (no fraud, no deportation order, etc.) and review both filings with your attorney.

“What does it mean when my case says ‘Being processed by USCIS’?”
USCIS (U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services) is the agency that decides petitions such as the I-130, I-129F, and most adjustment-of-status packages before any transfer to the National Visa Center or a U.S. consulate.

“Besides the wait, what is the hardest part of immigration?”
Distance and the unknown—not knowing what comes next, how long it will take, or how an interview will unfold. Reducing that uncertainty through reliable information and community support can ease the stress.

“My CR-1 interview in Abu Dhabi ended in refusal and the officer asked for more relationship evidence. What now?”
Act fast and thoroughly. This is likely your last chance to prove the marriage is bona-fide before the case is returned for revocation, so work with an experienced attorney and submit a strong, well-organized response.

“The form asks if I’ve ever been denied a visa. I had a denial inside the U.S.—how do I answer?”
That is specific legal advice that depends on your full history. You must answer honestly and accurately; consult an immigration attorney before completing the form.

“I became a U.S. citizen after a prior K-1 marriage and divorce. Can I now sponsor my new fiancé/husband?”
Yes. Prior filings and a previous divorce are considered red flags but not automatic denials. Expect closer scrutiny—document why the first marriage ended and why the new relationship is genuine.

“We filed a CR-1 I-130 in January 2025 and the online tool says 14 months. Is that normal?”
Current averages are about 17 months for I-130 spouse-visa petitions. The estimator fluctuates, so a 14-month projection is within the normal range as long as you have your receipt notice.

“Can my fiancé still visit on a tourist visa while our K-1 is pending?”
Possibly, but entry is never guaranteed. You must show strong non-immigrant ties—round-trip ticket, job letters, property, family obligations—and be truthful about the pending petition. Prepare for extra questions at the port of entry.

“I filed adjustment of status in June and already see ‘Case is ready for interview.’ Is that unusual?”
USCIS has been randomly fast-tracking some AOS files for interview—even ahead of older cases. It isn’t a bad sign; just be prepared.

“Why do withdrawals or other requests take so long?”
USCIS is understaffed and, as litigation has revealed, often processes cases out of strict filing order. That systemic disorganization leads to unpredictable timelines.

“Any tips to get a six-month stay approved on a tourist visa?”
Tourist-visa issuance is largely discretionary—think of it like a lottery. Maximize evidence of ties abroad (stable job, property, family, funds) but know the officer can still refuse without reviewing documents.

“I filed VAWA in April and still have no receipt notice.”
Check your courier tracking and whether your filing-fee check was cashed. If neither, call the VAWA unit to confirm delivery; receipts usually arrive within 30–60 days.

“We’re just starting our immigration journey—where should we begin?”
Use the firm’s free Resource Center for process overviews, relationship-evidence guides, and the on-demand webinar, then schedule a private strategy session if you need personalized advice.

“After medical and biometrics, how long until the spouse-visa/AOS interview?”
For consular CR-1 cases, approvals often issue the same day with visas in 1–2 weeks. For stateside AOS, wait times from biometrics to interview vary by field office—anywhere from a few months to about a year.

“My K-1 fiancé just arrived—should we get a Social Security number before filing AOS?”
Yes. Apply right away; waiting too long can bar issuance and complicate joint banking, driver’s license, and other logistics. If time is short, request the SSN when you file AOS.

“My tourist visa is already approved—what evidence should I carry when I fly?”
Bring the same proof of strong ties (employment letters, property deeds, return ticket, etc.) to show the CBP officer you intend only a short visit.

“I lost my USCIS receipt notice. Does that hurt my case?”
Your filing remains valid, but always keep digital and paper copies of every notice. If necessary you can request a replacement I-797C, but safeguard documents going forward.

Join Us for Weekly Live Immigration Chats

Have more questions about the U.S. immigration process for couples? Join Attorney Megan Pastrana and the team every Tuesday at 11 AM EST for our Weekly Live Immigration Attorney Chats. You can ask your questions live on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, and get personalized guidance for your case.

If you have any questions or concerns, we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way, helping you navigate the complexities of the immigration journey with confidence. If you find yourself overwhelmed or uncertain about the next steps, reach out for personalized advice tailored to your unique situation. And don’t hesitate to visit our resource center for more detailed guides to use on your journey through this process.