pets

[burbuja2]

My fiancee will be coming to the U.S. in late December on a K-1 visa.  She wants to bring her dog with her. Does anyone know the procedure for this?  Also, after we're married and we file for the adjustment of status, will she be able to leave and re-enter the country freely or does she need some type of special permission?

[Bubba]

... in response to pets, posted by burbuja2 on Sep 27, 2002

You need to check with USDA on the dog, different countries have different rules and some require a quarentine.  If you need that you have to have a reservation in advance.  Just call immigration and ask who to talk to about bringing in a pet when she comes.

[Calipro]

... in response to pets, posted by burbuja2 on Sep 27, 2002


 I don't know about the dog but your wife (after you are married) will need permission to travel aboard until her I-485 is ajudicated. I forget what the form number is to apply for premission to travel outside the U.S. I don't know where you are living but in Arizona it can take up to three years (to adjudicate the I-485) to get the green card. The travel documents are only good for one year so you will have to reapply before the last one expires or she won't be able to travel.

[Edge]

... in response to Re: pets, posted by Calipro on Sep 27, 2002

Calipro is right.  When you file the Adjustment of Status (I-485) you can also file for the Advanced Parole (I-131) document which allows her to travel outside of the U.S. for one year while the I-485 is pending.  The advanced parole can then be renewed after a year.  It is also a good idea to file for the Employment Authorization Document (I-765) at this time if she was not granted permission to work when she arrives in the U.S at the point of entry..  This is a card that they take her picture for.  It is useful in getting the SS# although supposedly Social Security is supposed to grant one to K-1 visa holders even before you marry.  The EAD is also only good for a year and can be renewed.  The INS actually cut me a break on the EAD and did not charge me the $135 or whatever it was fee when I applied because she was "supposed to receive it at point of entry" the woman said.

[Throw]

... in response to pets, posted by burbuja2 on Sep 27, 2002

My cousin get married in Colombia.  After his wife had been here in the states about three months she went back home for a visit.  On her return to the states she brought her dalmation with her.  So I don't think it is a big deal at all.  I just don't know if it is possible the first time through.  The family bought a large cage and a vet gave the family tranzilizers to give to the pet.  It seem to work fine with no problems.  Hope this helps...

[Pete E]

... in response to pets, posted by burbuja2 on Sep 27, 2002

A lady I know brought her dog.Its possible,I'm not sure the proceedure.I could ask.
Once you get the adjustment of status she can travel I believe,but I have heard of that taking a year.We went spousal visa so maybe someone else can tell you for sure.

Pete