My fiancé and I applied for a k-1 petition for a fiancé visa November 4th, 2009. It was received by USCIS November 6th, 2009. We submitted all forms and proof of meeting in person within the last two years as well as proof of ongoing relationship. I have traveled to Russia in January 2010 to visit her, but we are both getting nervous about the process. Anyone have previous experience with this process that may be able to help put our minds at ease?

Between 6-8 months or maybe a bit longer depends on workload of the consulate.

Between 6-8 months or maybe a bit longer depends on workload of the consulate.

Why does USCIS say 5 months and EVERYONE else says it takes longer some take years...

The period 5 months is to get approval from USCIS and the case to be forwarded to NVC. It takes 4 months from NVC to US consulate, and the consul may extend the case for another 4 months if they have so much workload.

Nvc?

My K-1 petition was approved by the California Service Center on Nov 4, 2009 and I'm working with an immigration lawyer. I just heard from my lawyer yesterday and she said that my application won't be transferred from the Service Center to the Consulate until it has been approved (which is taking approx 5 months). So, once it is approved, it will take approximately 4 weeks to be transferred to the consulate. The consulate will review everything and let my lawyer know if they need anything additional. Then, they will schedule you for the interview. It looks like I'll be receiving my visa approx in May 2010. Are you working with a lawyer? What is your status this far?

nvc?

National Visa Center. It is the processing center that sends out the approvals to the US consulates from the primary service centers. The case is within the current processing timelines. With your receipt number, you can check online directly with the USCIS.

Congratulations and good luck! :)