Right, so am ecstatic as fiancee (UKC) received his Packet 3 in the mail today. But have some questions for anyone that has gone through this before.

1) He has none of the diseases listed, save one: He has had depression before. He has actually just come off of medication for it (having lost his mother to Alzheimers in October). It is documented with the UK Gov't as he was on support with them for a period of time due to the depression. I can't see how this could hurt his application, but...

Has anyone experienced any problems with this when interviewing?

2) Affidavit of Support
I am employed and have a good salary ($30,000-40,000 a year). However, I live at my parents' home (by their request), and I have debt. My fiance has raised $5,000 in cash to help support himself until his work permit goes through and has his college degree - so getting a job should not be a problem.

My question is: should I fill out the affadavit? Or should I have my mother joint support him? And if I have my mother joint support - do we both fill out I-134s and send in the supporting info?

Again, you all are so helpful. I have issued the second question to my lawyer but am looking for someone with experience to give me somewhere to start...

He will be asked about mental health issues including depression during the medical. At a push, they could ask him to see a psychiatrist. But their only basic concerns are that there is little risk of him harming himself or others, and that he won't be a public charge.

You should fill out the affadavit of support. Since you have sufficient income (presuming it shows that way on your tax return) that should be fine. Where you live or your debts are irrelevant as far as I know.

Thanks Tracy. He has no problem seeing a psychiatrist - he's been doing counselling in three different programs for the past 6 months.

I was thinking that was the way to go. And my tax forms will show that. Thanks again!!!

You're welcome.

It would be a good idea to have one of his doctors (a consultant psychiatrist is best if he has one, otherwise some other doctor) write a letter about his mental state, just in case it's needed.

Many people are depressed at some time, it hopefully shouldn't be a big deal.

Just to let you know - apparently London does get more concerned if there have been any episodes of self-harm (such as suicide attempts).

Just wanted to say ditto to this part.

Rene

Thanks Rene - you guys have no idea how much you help a girl out!!!

Based on others' past experiences this is a really, really good idea. He should show the panel doc this letter at the medical to explain the 'yes' answer on the medical.

Your salary as posted is sufficient for your own affidavit of support. Your debts don't have to be detailed (have a look at the forms & instructions, both I-134 for the visa application and I-864 for the later Adjustment of Status/AOS) and more will become clear.

$5,000 seems a bit on the low side, I was going to suggest he self sponsor for the K1 but not sure that is enough.

Thanks again.

No, Boiler - I wouldn't have him do that. I'm counting his $5,000+ towards my support for him when he comes (as it is cash and we will be pooling money )

Just so you know, though, he would only need to show he has that in savings at the time of his interview. He wouldn't be spending it, he'd still bring it to the USA to use there.

Rene

Well he will be out of work for 3 months ish, depends on your wedding plans. Sure I went through a lot more, frightening when you add it up.

London Consulate has a low self sponsorship threshhold. If it was in Pounds it should be OK.

Hi !!

I'm beatlesgirl's fiance ( fancy us both being on here ) ...

I've tried to get a letter from my ex-counselor stating that I underwent counseling and that my problems are in the past but his supervisor is being a pain in the bum (or should I say butt ;-0 ) ... He's not sure if he can sanction such a letter plus he's saying that it's impossible to get a letter to me in time for my medical (I've offered to pick the letter up in person but this guy loves his red tape and that's a big no no in his book)..

I could ask my GP for a letter but he's really not been involved with my treatment ..

Trust me to get a jobs worth

mojo

GP is better than nothing. They may ask you to go to a psychiatrist for an eval - but if you're fine now, hopefully they will write a good report.

Edit: re-read a bit... they do not mind you having depression, even if currently probably. What they are concerned with is that you haven't/will not have any dangerous behaviour - towards yourself or others. No attacking other people, no cutting, no suicide attempts.

If a counselor's/doctor's letter can say never been a danger to self or others, and not expected to be, that would be good.

Thanks for that, I'm no danger to anyone ... never have been and never will be :-)

That's great.

From what I've ever read of the guide to panel physicians, you *should* be fine then.

Forgot to say before - welcome to BE, and congratulations.

Best of luck with your interview.