We Did It!

I just got this e-mail from JCICS. It looks like we won the fight!

Joint Council Update
Program Advocacy
Date October 14, 2008
Regarding I-600A Process

Dear Families & Friends,
After advocating on behalf of adoptive families for the past 6 months, Joint Council is very pleased to confirm that USCIS has announced a very positive ruling concerning the I-600A process.

In summary, it is our understanding that, effective immediately, families who filed Form I-600A, Application for Advance Processing of Orphan Petition, prior to April 1, 2008 and whose USCIS approval of that petition (aka the I-171H) has not expired, will be able to proceed with their adoption under the I-600A process if they take certain steps while their approval remains valid. This means that families with valid Form I-600A approvals will not be required to transition to The Hague process via Form I-800A. In order to maintain their status as ‘grandfathered’ cases, families with non-expired Form I-600A approvals must request a one-time free extension. Then, prior to the expiration of the one-time free extension, families must file a new Form I-600A and pay the appropriate fee.

It is also our understanding that families with a Form I-600A approval that has expired and who have not obtained an extension or filed a new Form I-600A, will need to undertake the Hague process. The Hague process will also apply to any petitioner who has not completed their adoption by 2014.

Woo Hoo!! This means I can stay with the I-600a. I don't have to switch to the I-800a!!! Unless my adoption isn't completed by 2014. Let's just say... I can't even imagine that! You have no idea how happy this makes me. I feel like a weight's been lifted off my shoulders. I can breathe a little easier now. This ruling will save me money, time, effort and an unlimited amount of stress and worry. I'm so grateful.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who supported this fight not just for me but for all waiting families.

PS. I can't think of any better way to celebrate my 28 month log in date anniversary than with great news like this!