Really bad news.

**Splash_4** · 26th March 08, 11:37 AM

Couldn't you buy another 1 way ticket from Boise to the UK (or somewhere else reallycheap out of the US) and solve the issue that way?

**Arlen** · 26th March 08, 11:41 AM

Originally Posted by Splash_4

Couldn't you buy another 1 way ticket from Boise to the UK (or somewhere else reallycheap out of the US) and solve the issue that way?

Unfortunately I don't have enough to pay for getting Diane's car sorted and getting a new ticket before I was due to leave.
It's just one of those things. We really need to get Diane's car and current bills that I volunteered to pay sorted. Otherwise she can't work to pay the rest of her bills and get things sorted.

It will get sorted eventually but it is going to take longer than planned.

**Arlen** · 26th March 08, 11:43 AM

Originally Posted by Galician

I'd like to add my commiseration to the others about your situation. It really, really sucks. I'm wondering if this delay might complicate your traveling with Pip. Would coming to NYC first make a difference?

Hey, how about just buying a one-way return ticket for a month after your currently planned arrival date? Get a rock-bottom one, regardless of the reliability of the airline, just to have it to show Homeland Security. Just a thought, literally off the top of my head.

I've got it arraged to go to Boise via Denver. That's the cheapest option and the company dealing with Pip's flight is fine for me to change the dates, so that's not a problem.

**davedove** · 26th March 08, 11:50 AM

I'm sure it's frustrating. Dealing with the red tape can be that way.

One idea, is there any way you could convert your one way ticket into a round trip. Not buy another one way, as that is bound to be expensive. The airlines like to sell round trip tickets, and they are usually not much more than a one way (ironically, they are sometimes cheaper). If that works, you could just "forget" to use the return ticket. Don't tell anyone you're doing that of course, as they might get upset.

**gilmore** · 26th March 08, 11:56 AM

It could be worse. I have a friend, a Tibetan refuge, who is stuck in Switzerland. He should be expelled from there, but cannot go to any other country, so far.

**Jock Scot** · 26th March 08, 11:57 AM

Oh what rotten news!I wish I had something helpful to say,but nothing springs to mind I am afraid.It will end, and all will be well that is for sure.Just remember with officialdom put brain into gear before opening your mouth, however frustrating things may get.

**Dirk Skene** · 26th March 08, 12:02 PM

The time will come. Think about it

it's only 2 months. I know that seems like 2 months. But it will pass & you'll be here.

**McClef** · 26th March 08, 12:12 PM

That's a bummer Arlen.

I was under the impression that residential visa applications had to be made in the country of origin and approved at the US Embassy before departure so thought you were all set when you bought a single ticket. What were you advised?

Are you now being expected to enter under the Visa Waiver Scheme which requires a return ticket but limits a stay to 90 days or less?

I hope it all gets sorted and that you can do something about the ticket. Alas they are not all transferable or capable of alteration.

**Hamish** · 26th March 08, 12:21 PM

Arlen, Just to add to the pile of commiserations: I am so sorry to read of your plight and, like others, wish there was something I could do to assist. It sometimes does help if you can convince yourself that these things happen for a purpose. That, in the long run, your life - or an aspect of it - will be better as a result of this. It must be difficult for you now, but try to find something positive to hold on to, at least until the way forward is clearer. Thinking of you. Take care, Ham.

**Arlen** · 26th March 08, 12:24 PM

Originally Posted by McClef

That's a bummer Arlen.

I was under the impression that residential visa applications had to be made in the country of origin and approved at the US Embassy before departure so thought you were all set when you bought a single ticket. What were you advised?

Are you now being expected to enter under the Visa Waiver Scheme which requires a return ticket but limits a stay to 90 days or less?

I hope it all gets sorted and that you can do something about the ticket. Alas they are not all transferable or capable of alteration.

Because we are already married the best way to apply is with me in the country. That way I can adjust my status and get a work permit while the visa itself is processing.
So, yes, I would be entering on a visa waiver.

Unfortunately I can't change the flights that were already booked in any way, They are stuck as they are.

Maybe I will win the lottery or something.
It's 2 more months. I think we can make it through. It just... we've spent so much time apart already.