Evelyn,

Hi, I read the first response to your question. I, too, was in the same situation but it was in 1987. At that time, it was easier to marry first in the DR. After the wedding, we went to the American Consulate (in Santo Domingo) and set up an appointment. I am from Iowa and were lucky to get someone whose roommate in college from Iowa who met with us. He told us everything we would need for the appointment. That was in February. The interview and appointment was set for April. I was able to return to the DR for it (which was a big help). We got the VISA that day. It only took 2 months. I know immigration is different now but at that time, fiancee visas were not always a sure thing. We did have to meet with immigration and naturalization 2 years later to prove we were still married, besides all the other things we needed for the first interview to prove the whole thing was not farce. Good luck! We have been married 12 years now and have a 19 month old little boy-a beautiful child (as he is 1/2 Dominican and 1/2 Irish). We are going to be in the DR in September for his first visit. My husband's family still lives there. Keep me posted and if I can be of any help, let me know.

Sincerely,

Pat Serra