Do you need an Immigration Lawyer?

This is not an easy question to answer. With today's laws and the threat of terrorism, it is not the same as it was when me and my then future Filipina Bride got married. If you are good at keeping records, reading regulations and following instructions, you may be able to do it on your own. If not, you may need help.

There are services that specialize in helping people with the INS process, however, if it is a legal issue that concerns you, you may be better off with an immigration lawyer. This may not be an easy decision, but one you may have to make. If you don't get a lawyer or help at first, do yourself a big favor by keeping good records in case you need help later.

Documentation and Patience

One thing you have to realize is that the government doesn't look at this process as being romantic. It is all business. You need to keep good records and documentation and if you send anything anywhere, make copies for your files.

Keep anything that has to do with your courtship. Phone bills, receipts, plane ticket stubs, pictures, etc. I don't care what it is, if it relates to you and your lady, keep it. Tell her to do the same.

Keep a diary with important dates and times. Unless you have a photographic memory, in about 8 months when you have to fill out all the forms, you may need that diary to look up important information or dates.

It's not the INS Anymore

With the above recommendations, you should have a good start with your research. For Americans, you may want to check out some of the INS websites. There is only one official INS, but there are many sites that would love to have you as a client. That's up to you. Like I said, I did all the leg work. I didn't want to spend the money on a lawyer or an expert in this area. To each their own....you may feel differently. There are tons of sites. Just go to www.google.com and type in INS as your search topic.

• The INS is now called the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) -- I like INS better so that is what I'll call it.
• The INS website is http://uscis.gov/graphics/index.htm
• INS phone number is 800--375-5283. I called them many times and they were always a great help

We are far from immigration experts. We do have a section that shows the paperwork I used to get my Filipina Bride to the states (please click K-1 Process to check it out). It's old stuff but it still may be a good guide. Checking out the U.S. INS website is probably your best guide to get you started. The INS website also has all the forms you will need.

There are new U.S.A. laws on the books (at this writing, we are IMBRA exempt since our site has FREE membership for both male and female members) that govern the criteria for meeting a foreign bride. If you need professional help, look for a good U.S. immigration lawyer.