US citizen married abroad

[*.mimmi.*]

My husband is a US citizen, we live in Finland. I am a finnish native.

We got married here, and have been married for three years.

My husband has a visa here and we have been living here a little over three years now.

We want to move to the US together.

Does anyone have experience on applying for a visa for your spouse abroad?

How long does it take?

What kind of documentation do we have to provide?

I understand he doesnt have to provide the affidavit of support (financial support) because he has been living and working here, and therefor does not have a residence in the US as of now?

Would it be easier if my husband just got back to the USA and applied for me there? Would it be faster/ easier?

I have been trying to read about this, but its all too confusing, and since were still finding out about this, i havent gone ahead and called the embassy for advice yet, i will, once i hear peoples experiences, wether its better to apply here, or in the US. This means being away from my husband, and i need to know for how long.

Thanks for any info! Its much appreciated

[ElenaW]

Hi,

You can use direct consular filing for an IR-1 visa which is the quickest way. This means you can apply at the American embassy, where you are living. Because you have been married for over two years, he is eligible to get permanent residency right away.

From others' experiences I've heard it takes about 3-4 months.

He will basically need to file a petition for alien spouse. Form I-130.

Look up the American embassy in your country and they will have all of the information on the website.

If I were you I would choose the DCF option as it means the application will be processed quicker and you will not need to be away from your spouse.

Best of luck to you!