I-130 Do we have to live together while waiting on documentation?

[lyndelld]

My girlfriend has a travel visa. We would like to get married (legal ceremony) when she here in May.

Our plan is for her to go back to Peru after the wedding until all the documentation is complete. So that she is not here - unable to work, etc... I think this could cause friction. She might as well be working in the meantime.

Is this possible? Do you have to live together while your awaiting the documentation so that she can work in the U.S.?

Also, We do want to have a religious ceremony later in the year. Do we need to make sure this is only a religious ceremony and not legal?

 

[Jackolantern]

If you specify consular processing on the I-130, she will complete the process in Peru and will not be expected to live with you until after completing a successful interview at the consulate and then moving to the US.

 

[lyndelld]

Consular in Peru

How long will the process take with the consular in Peru? Any ideas?

 

[lyndelld]

Will I need to file a I-485?

If you specify consular processing on the I-130, she will complete the process in Peru and will not be expected to live with you until after completing a successful interview at the consulate and then moving to the US.

 

[Jackolantern]

I-485 must not be filed if she is completing the process outside the US via the consulate.