Residency Question

[hapaphant]

Hey everyone! This is my first post here, and I'm just now getting familiar with all the details of the DCF process. I have browsed extensively for clarification but haven't been able to pinpoint an exact answer, so...does the residency requirement begin on the date of the residence permit or the date I entered China? I originally came on a family visit visa and changed it to the permit after being here a few weeks. Thanks in advance!

[dnoblett]

Begins with the permit, however USCIS field office in Beijing and Guangzhou have been fairly loose about the length of residence requirement.

 

There are a few topics tagged Residence Permit. http://candleforlove.com/forums/tags/forums/Residence%2BPermit/

[Randy W]

Hey everyone! This is my first post here, and I'm just now getting familiar with all the details of the DCF process. I have browsed extensively for clarification but haven't been able to pinpoint an exact answer, so...does the residency requirement begin on the date of the residence permit or the date I entered China? I originally came on a family visit visa and changed it to the permit after being here a few weeks. Thanks in advance!

 

 

Residency is required, the six month length of time requirement was dropped in 2011. With a current residence permit, they will almost certainly accept your I-130. That being said, it is up to the person at the counter reviewing your documentation as to whether it will be accepted or not. They have been known to accept I-130 petitions from people who have provided proof of simply living in China.

 

Once your petition is accepted, your proof of residency is returned to you on the spot and will no longer be a factor in the processing of the petition.

 

Provide whatever proof you have - an apartment lease with your name on it, along with a valid visa may be good enough - but, like I said, the current residence permit is pretty much of a slam dunk.

Edited May 1, 2015 by Randy W (see edit history)

[hapaphant]

Thanks for the replies! Seems a bit clearer now. (I won't be applying for a while, but I'm just gathering information and preparing in advance.)