VisaOfficer:

Yes, you absolutely can file all the papers before the two years are over! That's a very good idea. Good luck!

Thank you very much for your response and clarification!

Good day Visa Officer,

I would really appreciate if you could clarify my situation.

I was a graduate student in the US with the government sponsorship and therefore, J-1 two-year home residency requirement. I met my guy here and we developed relationship. After making research, we decided that the easiest way is to fulfill 2 year obligation without trying to obtain any waivers, and I am going to return to my home country soon. We would like to file for some sort of immigrant visa in future, we are considering both: fiancé visa (K-1) or spouse visa (IR-1 / CR-1).

My major question is: can we file all the papers and start the process before ending of 2 years, so that this 6-12 months of waiting period (for fiancé or spouse visa) would fall within the two years? I understand that I will not be technically issued an immigrant visa or even might not be called for an interview before fulfillment of 2 years, but can the rest of the long process take time during this 2 year period? So that after 2 years we will not have to wait another 6 months or 1 year.

Thanks a lot for any information and have a great day!