Going for a Vacation

[Dremani]

I wouldn't start packing up until any paperwork was approved. Being too anxious can cost a lot of hardship in the long run. I would hold off on a 6 month vacation to California, plus you're bringing in a TV. Wouldn't it be wiser for your fiance to come and visit you in Canada while the paperwork is in process?

[Steven]

-I will be only carrying $100 US currency. I plan on using my Canadian credit card for everything

Credit cards count for nothing as proof of funds, because as the name implies it's credit, not money.

-- Fri Jul 10, 2009 10:24 am --

You gave up your non-immigrant status the day you applied for your K1.

But K-1 is a non-immigrant visa technically I thought.

[Reba]

technically yes, but it is dual intent, and the next step from K1 is marriage to a US citizen and AOS. Or go home.

[Auggy]

Auggy, carrying only $100 cash with you for an expected 3 month trip is likely to have you denied entry. Their first question will be "what if your card(s) are not accepted or don't work?" then you're screwed.

Take more cash with you.

I have no idea if a visa is required to play on gameshows.

How much money should I be expected to take with me per day? $10? $50? $100? I hate having to carry lots of money around. In addition to my credit cards, I will also take my debit card.

Thanks!

[Reba]

They do not accept credit or debit cards as accepable forms of proof of supporting yourself. If they don't work, then you're without money. They want to see cash, or at the very least, travellers cheques (yes, there is still such a thing).

I don't think there is a hard and fast rule about how much you would need to have on hand to prove you're supporting your trip yourself, but at least have enough cash or travellers cheques on hand to get thru 2 weeks. If you don't, they can suspect you as a vagrant and deny you entry.

Remember to also notify your bank and credit card companies that you are travelling abroad. They've been known to put holds on debit and credit cards if they suspect it's been stolen and taken to the States or elsewhere.

[Auggy]

I don't think there is a hard and fast rule about how much you would need to have on hand to prove you're supporting your trip yourself, but at least have enough cash or travellers cheques on hand to get thru 2 weeks. If you don't, they can suspect you as a vagrant and deny you entry.

I'd be staying 3 months, but would $2000 be enough for 2 weeks? Too much, too little?

Remember to also notify your bank and credit card companies that you are travelling abroad. They've been known to put holds on debit and credit cards if they suspect it's been stolen and taken to the States or elsewhere.

That's a good idea. Thanks!

[Steven]

You don't need to carry cash, you need proof of funds. E.g. bank statement, letter from your bank manager, etc.

Like Reba said, I'm not sure if there is a specific rule but the usual rule of thumb is 125% of the poverty level, which works out to $1,128 a month.

[lawsrlaws]

We don't go by a specific amount. Every case is different. The problem I have here is that you have Intent to Immigrate. The Officer you talk to will have the final say, but like I said before, stick to short 1-2 week trips at a time.