Hi,
I have no idea why our application went so quickly. Any little contributing factor could have helped us just as any little thing could have hindered us. I really don't know. It was the first time that we applied for permanent residence for my wife and it was a success. We have no children, no dependents and I think we made a very good case. I agree with you when you ask how can you prove your relationship anymore than you already did... and I know it is frustrating, but maybe you can do something. Who knows.
I know that 30% of cases are finished within 7 months in Guatemala. But it could take much longer. I get the feeling that it takes longer if there are some complications. I have no idea what they consider complications, but I would think having children might make the process a little bit longer. I really have no idea, though.
Let me say now that I owe much to PMM for answering many questions. It is great to have someone like him/her in the absence of much help from the embassies. Not to drown PMM any more, but if you have questions, he or she is a great source.
Previously, before we were married, my wife and I had tried to get her a visitor's visa unsuccessfully. Would it have helped that we were already in the system? Would that have made it go any faster? I have no idea. I really know nothing. I worked really hard on our package... not overdoing it too much, but making it very clear with evidence of photos and emails and telephone calls that we were indeed a genuine couple. Perhaps the package made it easier for the IO.
