sunnylondon

Hi all, I must begin by thanking the forum for being a really good source of information/support. I'm a UK citizen and I'm currently applying for a spouse visa to join my husband (a US citizen) who lives in the US.

Unfortunately, a few months back I was denied entry in to the US when I wanted to visit him (they thought that I may not leave and put me on a plane back). I am otherwise a regular, law abiding person - no dark or dodgy previous history/background.

We're keen to spend time together and wondered whether its possible for me to visit him on a 'visitor's visa' while we're waiting for my spouse visa to come through? Obviously we don't want to risk our application in any way... What do you think are our chances with this idea - can you suggest anything else? Many thanks

Noorah101

It's perfectly legal to use either the VWP or a visitor's visa to visit the USA while your I-130 process is going on. However, I suspect the same issue which prevented you from being allowed in on the VWP will be the same issue you will have in trying to get a visitor's visa.

In general, if someone is able to use the VWP, it's harder to get a visitor visa. Having a USC spouse doesn't help. You would have to prove why you need to stay longer than 90 days in the USA, and prove you have strong ties which will bring you back to the UK.

Rene

sunnylondon

Thanks for your reply. They've taken away my right to use the VWP - at the time, they said that if I wanted to travel to the US in the future, I'd have to apply for a 'tourist/visitors visa'. But, from your view, does it look like my chances are slim to get one?

Noorah101

Applying for the visitor's visa won't affect your Immigrant visa process at all, so the only harm in trying is the loss of time and money if you don't get it.

Personally, I think your chances are slim, but it might also depend on how strongly you can show that you have ties to the UK that you MUST come back for.

Rene

ian-mstm

Here's a thought... why doesn't hubby visit you... or, perhaps easier, why don't you both meet in a neutral 3rd country, Canada perhaps... or the Bahamas!

Ian

sunnylondon

Yeah - we just met up in Canada. Unfortunately, he works over there and has little leave entitlement (like many working in the US I believe).

other ideas most welcome....

meauxna

What part of the US does your husband live in?

sunnylondon

Northern California

meauxna

Random thought that if he lived near a border or had cheap easy access to one, you could come stay nearby and he could visit.
www.alaskaair.com has routes all up and down the West Coast.

How ya liking Tijuana?