TD visa questions

[Delmo]

Great forum, thanks to all who help.

My girlfriend just got everything in order for her TN visa etc and all is good to go. We were thinking about getting married this week before we leave so that I can get on with the TD visa and stay for the duration of her visa. LOL no I'm not marrying her just to get in the US.
Is there a certain amount of time that a couple needs to have been married to qualify for TD visa?
When on TD can you cross borders often?
What are some things to be aware of when applying for TD status?

[agnelson]

No, just enough time for the ink to dry on your certificate, which you need to show at the border.

There are no limits on entry, and if you are Cdn also, there is no consular processing to be done.

Just note that you can't work in US while on TD, but you can study.

[Delmo]

Also I have a big tool box that I used in my trade in Canada, if I bring it with me do you think it will raise any questions? I just want to take my tools with me to tinker on things.

[agnelson]

Well, you are allowed and are best advised to bring ALL your possessions with you, since you are moving to the US.

However, POE would be suspicious if your tool box was the only thing you are bringing.

[Delmo]

Awesome, thank you for the reply. We're taking a Uhaul box van with some funiture etc so hopefully it wont be a big deal to throw my tool box in. Thanks again, great site.

[Steven]

Where you get married is important in this situation as some jurisdictions take ages to issue a marriage certificate, and the names on your passports won't match.

[agnelson]

Newlyweds in this sitaution are encourgaed to bring other proof of the recent wedding including an invitation, pictures, etc.

For 2 Cdns, this will not be a stumbling block.

And while the official regisry copy of the marriage will not be available for several months, the marrying agent issues some form of certificate on the day, and this is usually more than enough for US entry purposes.

For GC, and other deeper legal matters, the full-fledged, provincially issued marriage certificate will be required.

[Delmo]

I'm so glad you mentioned that, we just realized that the certificate takes so long. I feel stupid for assuming we could get a certificate the same day.
So now not having the actual marriage certificate how can I get the TD status if we cross the border next week and she gets her TN. Should we try with what we have? Or can I apply to be on her TN visa later on when the certificate shows up?

Also..what if we quickly flew to Vegas or something and got a marriage certificate? That's probably not good enough is it? LOL