Apricot

I am a Canadian citizen, engaged to a USC. Not quite sure which route
we should take. Originally we were planning to pursue the k1 visa for
myself, however after reading some of the articles about the k3 visa I
have some confusion on which visa we should seek. In other words,
should I marry my fiance in the US, and pursue the K1 or should we get
married some where else, and pursue the k3 instead. Which process is
faster, easier, so on. Also I was curious about possible questions
regarding our financial status. Neither of us are wealthy. Is there
a minimum yearly income the folks at the consulate are looking for
when we're applying for these visas? Is the burden of support on the
USC or the or the non-US citizen spouse?

Thanks very much

lairdside

Whether or not K-1 or K-3 may be faster depends upon which Service Center will process the petition.

If you are with VSC I'd go with the K-1 at the moment.

If CSC it may be closeish.

NSC or TSC I'd go for the K-3 as opposed to the K-1.

All K-3's are processed through MSC.

lairdside

The financial burden is primarily on the USC. I have heard of the assets of the alien beneficiary being taken into account at the Consulate.

The support guidelines are low though, if your fiance earns at least $15,150 (unless they live in either Alaska or Hawaii for which the figures would be $18,925 and $17,425 respectively. Or they are a member of the armed forces in which case the figures would be lower) and would only be in a household of two people to whom they are related or obligated, having signed no previous affidavits of support that would be enough to meet the requirements.

Try here for more information:

http://www.immigration.gov/graphics/...upp.htm#income