Korean Job Discussion Forums

[kavanluc]

So, I just got married in December here in Korea to a Korean woman. I'm from American. In May, I plan to move to America to start a new job. Obviously, I'd like my wife to come with me.

I was looking at an I-130 in Seoul for my wife. SO I was just wondering if anyone has any experience in this situation. What are my options, how long does this kind of thing take, any general advice, etc etc?

[hellofaniceguy]

You are going to jump through many hoops. And then some more.
First up..getting your wife's documents from the local gu office; family registry documents, etc. Any documents in korean need to be translated into English.
If she has a driver's license in korea....needs to be translated also.

Make an appointment at the embassy, bring all your documents, and once you get to the interview window...you will get more info. All your application(s) will be sent to the U.S. for processing along with the fees you've paid.

It is not cut and dry and there is a long wait. Could be a year, could be 18 months could be 6 months.

Then the issue of sponsorship if you do not have income. They want to see U.S. tax returns...if you need a sponsor...you'll need their tax returns also.

Some in your situation have tried to bypass the rules by going to Guam which is U.S. land...he/she can go to Guam with no visa but ultimately end up coming back to korea.

Even if you bring all the required documents and think you have it licked...something else will come up.
He/she also needs a medical checkup and supporting documents.
American spouses will go through a back ground check also...then again...that's up to the person making the decisions...maybe yes/maybe no.