Hi, Any help would be greatly appreciated

My current status in the US is a Permanent Resident. I am about to
start the 1st year of my medical training. I have resided in
Philadelphia since July 2001.

I intend to apply for naturalization in April 2006 (once I
complete 4yrs and 9 mo. of residence).

However, I also intend to marry a Canadian Citizen in
july 2006. 

She would like to study or possibly work in the US
after we marry and move to philadelphia. 

I am unsure of what visa I should apply for her. 
Should I wait until I get my US citizenship, or should
I apply now.
Should I delay applying for naturalization until I get married.
Should she apply separately for a student visa.
Should she jus claim to be visiting me and leave every
six months. 

In summary: What is the most painless way to allow her to live and
(work or go to school) in Philadelphia.


Please advise.



Thankfully Yours,

Dazed and Confused.

HI, this is getting to be my favorite site to recommend.

http://uscis.gov/graphics/index.htm

US Citizenship and Immigration Service.
If you search with  USCIS  you will find other sites that maybe of interest.

The Immigration Service warns against "expert" lawyers.  The
referenced site is about as clear and informative as anyone could
want.

Good luck.

I have dealt with US immigration service for years and I still have
dealings with the system now.  I also have experience working in a US
Senator's office with constituent relations regarding immigration
issues.  I am not a certified expert but I am knowledgeable.

My advise to you is to wait the 4yr 9mos (and I am assuming that this
will occur next year) and apply for naturalization.  Your
naturalization should go through smoothly if you do not have an
criminal convictions in the US or have spent more than 6 consecutive
months outside of the states.

THEN, after receiving your naturalization/citizenship you can go ahead
and do a I-130 petition for your fiancee.  By waiting to get your
citizenship first you get "preferential" treatment and the process is
quicker.  The I-130 petition and the I-485 will go faster for your
fiance if you are petitioning for her/him.

Of course this is casual advice, as a medical student you should also
go to the facts to confirm your lead.  THe uscis.gov website is a good
website and just explore to find answers to your questions.  Another
resource is your US Congress-person's office.  Depending on their
philosophy in assisting constituents they can provide you help on your
quest.

Also on the relationship side, the year, or whatever time, wait that
you will have to endure before you marry the love of your life can be
spend preparing for that huge commitment.  If you are doing your
residency you already have your foot in the door, so just prepare for
your bride or groom to be.  Also consider the expenses of having to
fly family for the wedding- you might want to save for that.  Good
luck.