After the I-130

My husband received his approval to petition for a visa (his I-130 was approved) about a year ago.  We are just ready to make the next step.  How long does the visa process take after the I-130 is approved?

Where did you file the I-130?

The approved I-130 is only valid for 12 months, if you don't file the paperwork that comes afterwards then you'll likely have to start again.

We filed in London and the letter is dated July 28, 2006.  So, as of July 28, 2007 it would be invalid? 

I'm not sure about the time frame of taking up the I-30 response, but I do know that you can defer getting the final visa (i.e. the point when you enter US customs) for quite some time. I asked about this on DIA. You might want to check there, too.

It should say on the NOA, (notice of approval) that you got. There is always a certain length of time approvals of different visas are valid for - meaning that you need to have applied by that date.

I'm not sure about the time frame of taking up the I-30 response, but I do know that you can defer getting the final visa (i.e. the point when you enter US customs) for quite some time. I asked about this on DIA. You might want to check there, too.

You have a six month time frame in which to use the visa for the first time.

I'll look for a date, but didn't see one.  Thanks SO much.  Digging through all of this isn't easy, nor are the emotions involved.  I felt so good that we got the approval and my hubby was SO irritated with the invasiveness of the exam et al.  We were starting to get there in terms of the visa and then my son needed surgery at 3 months, so it halted things. 

I really hope we don't have to start all over again with the I-130, but we shall see...

I'm so glad you are all here!!!

You have a six month time frame in which to use the visa for the first time.

Yes, but you can extend it, too.

The I-130 approval does expire after 12 months of being issued.  So, if it was approved on July 28th 2006, it would be expired by July 28th 2007 and you'd have to start all over again. 

June