ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionSelf-sponsorship for the I-134?
Below is a link to another topic from last August discussing this and London. Hope it works!
If not, just type in self sponsership in the search field and you will see some from the search list that comes up.

My link
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-05-03 14:03:00
US Citizenship General Discussionbe sure of the company services you use

i applied for a visa and acquired the services of global visas. The fact the I was Polish and my case manager was Polish really helped. The only problems were at the beginning when I applied for the Police checks, not realizing that my documents were not up to the mark which created some problem for me and global visas too...

but fortunately they were capable enough to get me out of the whole situation..

Apart from this my case manager's advice and support was fantastic and I could not be happier with the service I received overall. :thumbs:


Good Advice. May I add some additional. Please to all who are chosing this process. do your homework. If you are going to use a service, still do your research and homework. It is your responsibility to check everything they do for errors. If they submit an error it is your problem and not theres to rectify with the consulate. Many are very good and many are just there to take your money. Most people are perfectly capable of completing this process on their own if you take your time, talk together, work together and work with your heart and your head together. Dont rush, it will come back to bite you. Good Luck to All and Happy New Year
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-04 05:26:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionJury duty and Citizenship

Hi Guys.

I got a question regarding <Jury duty> i am a green card holder, and before i got my GC i received a letter from jury duty telling me that i have to go to the Curt for jury duty and for sure i dont know at that time what is jury duty and i did went there. and for sure i stayed there no body called me so i had to leave, and the Second time i recieved another jury duty Letter telling me i have to go to the Curt for jury duty so i did, and on that time i was GC holder, and then finally some body there told me if u not American Citizen u dont have to be here, so i dont know that anyways .... my question is .. by going to jury duty is that counting as Voting things ??? i mean Voting in a federal/local election ???? i just remembered this i am getting worried now. because when i went to the curt i think i have had to sign my name there ???


would u explain to me if this counting as voting or not ... because i am filing for my citizenship so i dont want them to say u voted before ... see what i mean

sorry but newbie in this case...

Thanks alot.


I dont think you have anything to be worried about. Do you have a drivers liscence? In (my state) Pennsylvania I believe Jury Duty participants are selected by using drivers liscence numbers (used to be different). Jury Duty is considered a duty of every American Citizen if selected to participate and provide an unbiased decision based on the facts presented by the prosecution and the defense in regards to a legal proceeding. It may be related to a number of legal charges. IT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH VOTING! You should contact someone to have your name removed if you are not a citizen. Not sure who - maybe someone more familiar with the process can advise on that.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-04 05:19:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionPossible trick question on N-400 ?

Our forefathers would have to certainly answer yes to this question:

"Have you ever advocated (either directly or indirectly) the overthrow of any government by force or violence?"

The result is by force or violence and the action is by advocation that simply implies in favor of and not even direct participation of such an action, and not just the US government, but any government.

Perhaps not a trick question, but certainly a loaded question, USA used force and violence in the revolutionary war, War of 1812, Civil war, Mexican War, WWI, WWII, Korean War, Cuban Crisis, Viet Nam war, overthrow of Latin American governments by the CIA under Reagan, the Gulf War, and Iraq, and Afghanistan with sanctions now being imposed on Iran that could well end up in a War. Sanctions imposed again Japan certainly started WW II.

My wife was way too busy trying to raise and support her kids to even be concerned about her government affairs, so she answered no. In contrast to this question is the oath for USC, are you willing to bear arms for this country. Can only be for one purpose, and that is to overthrow a government that we don't like and force and violence is the only way. But is used in the context of providing freedom for the people of that country.

One could only guess why the USCIS is even asking this question. Has to be a reason, I think!


In contrast to this question is the oath for USC, are you willing to bear arms for this country. Can only be for one purpose, and that is to overthrow a government that we don't like and force and violence is the only way. But is used in the context of providing freedom for the people of that country.


So if our borders were aligned with an unfriendly nation and they invaded us, would we not want the right to bear arms against them and fight for our freedom. Would have nothing to do with overthrowing a government or for providing freedom for the people of any country other than our own.

The whole topic could be debated, argued, mulled, etc... until the cows come home and in the end what would you have? The same debate and no clear cut answers. The is so much room for interpretation, opinions and views. It is very interesting. You can search the internet and its already been beaten to death hundreds of times. :wacko:
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-14 12:43:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionUS passport damange
Below is a link to the US Dept of State page about applying for lost, stolen or damaged passport. According to the info posted on the site you must apply in person. The info is all in the link.

My link

Good Luck and Best Wishes
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-20 11:15:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionInterveiw date received in the mail today
Best Wishes and Good Luck :thumbs:
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-22 13:14:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionTook my oath yesterday
Congrats :thumbs:
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-22 09:03:00
CanadaNeed Help Deciding on Visa Type
Hi - I am not an expert in spousal visas, we were K-1 from Vietnam. But I will comment that from the friends I have made here and experiences I have followed the CR-1 seems to be the preffered method between K3 and CR1. I am not familiar with DCF. My best advise is to not try to rush (as hard as it can be). Make sure you document everything and lots of pictures and proofs and you will be fine.

Congratulations on your marriage! May I ask where in PA will your fiance be looking. I live in Erie, PA. Always like to meet new people and make new friends. Good luck in your journey!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-20 09:29:00
CanadaLast Minute Question for POE
I agree. I came in with my fiancee and we just gave the "sealed packet" and passport to the officer. Just make sure he knows not to get curious and open the packet from the consulate - thats a no-no! It's a real killer becuase we all want to open it to see whats inside :innocent:

GOOD LUCK, I can imagine your anticipation :dance: and what may be instore when he arrives :devil: hehe!!!!!!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-02-01 14:49:00
CanadaWelcome to USA Letter?
:blink: Welcome to USA letter? Where did you hear of that? Is it specific to CR1. We were K1 and received nothing of the sort, nor has anyone that I know of received one.
The only Welcome to America we received were the words uttered by the CO after the interview and the same by the CBP at POE, BUT THAT WAS GOOD FOR US!

Interesting! Maybe if you receive your visa and POE document pack by mail they include this.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-03-17 11:19:00
CanadaRandom Thread
I've seen some programs and it appears that there is some very beautiful country there.

I wonder about the elevation if you visit someplace like Lake Titicaca or Machu Picchu. I've heard its best to take extra time to allow for adjustment to the altitude or you may end up lightheaded and nauseas!

Sounds awesome - have a great time.

I think as soon as we can we will be returning to Vietnam. My fiancee (well she'll be my wife in 1.5 hours :dance: ) is from Nha Trang Vietnam. Its very beautiful there (I think so) and you can make it cheap or expensive. Doan worked at a Island Resort called Vinpearl (which is on the expensive end) but there are lots of places that are nice and very inexpensive. Its very peaceful and relaxing complared to Ho Chi Minh City.

Best Wishes
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-03-31 12:25:00
CanadaI-134 for the K-1
I provided my most recent 6 months of bank statements.
Also provided the letter of employment (I've been with the same employer for 15 years), most recent 6 months of may stubs and copies of all pages of past 2 years tax returns and w2's.

No problems for us.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-02 12:58:00
CanadaHad enough..
We will keep you in out thoughts and prayers.

The one thing they can never take away is our true love and devotion.

Try and hold on to your faith and be strong and bless you.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-02 11:47:00
CanadaSongs that got you through the rough times
We have a disk that the Vietnamese photographer made from out traditional picture day. There are a mix of Vietnamese and english songs on it. From May of 09 till December 09 when I went for Doans interview I watched it every single day. Not once did I watch it without tears, but they were tears of happiness.

One of the songs is "I see the church I see the people" wedding song.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-02 11:43:00
CanadaWhat??ARG
More prayers are on the list for you tonight (F)
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-06 16:25:00
CanadaNOA2 RECIEVED! What's Next?
I'm a little confused - Your going through the Montreal Consulate and your finace is in Puerto Rico.

The fiance in Puerto Rico is the USC and you are the fiancee in Canada (do I have this right).

Umm - just to get this straight - a fiance is he, a fiancee is she. Anyway...

The I129F packet will go to the NVC and they will assign a case number and send it to the beneficiary in Canada. After the NVC sends it the USC should receive a letter with the case number and that it has been sent off to the consulate.

The beneficiary will receive instructions from the consulate on what forms to complete and send next and in addition there will be instructions on what things to do to prepare for the interview.

There will be some things the USC will need to prepare and send to the beneficiary such as I-134 Affidavit if Support and supporting documents, Original and Copy of the USC Birth Certificate, etc. You will want to start working on these now and not wait until you receive packet 4.

Check out the K-1 guide for what the USC will need to send you. Check out the Canada regional forum for exactly how things work in Montreal.

Best Wishes!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-01 16:08:00
Canada4 years later....Time flies by, indeed!
So maybe it belongs in another forum but its a GREAT POST!!!!

:thumbs: Best wishes for a lifetime of happiness and lots more memories!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-09 10:09:00
CanadaApproved
Congrats! :thumbs:
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-09 11:10:00
CanadaPOE today!!
Congrats and Best Wishes to you both :thumbs:
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-13 16:03:00
CanadaMAINE POE
I may be wrong but I believe the following to be accurate.
The importation of cats and dogs is regulated by the CDC. See below (some states may specifically have additional requirements beyond what the CDC recommends.

Bringing a Cat into the United States
A general certificate of health is not required by CDC for entry of pet cats into the United States, although some airlines or states may require them. However, pet cats are subject to inspection at ports of entry and may be denied entry into the United States if they have evidence of an infectious disease that can be transmitted to humans. If a cat appears to be ill, further examination by a licensed veterinarian at the owner's expense might be required at the port of entry.

Cats are not required to have proof of rabies vaccination for importation into the United States. However, some states require vaccination of cats for rabies, so it is a good idea to check with state and local health authorities at your final destination.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-14 12:08:00
CanadaVisa - April 8th Interview
Congrats and Best Wishes :thumbs:
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-16 06:47:00
CanadaOMG! Got an email notification for my expresspost!!!
Wish you the best and hope everything goes well with hubby, hope its not something to serious :blink:
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-16 11:44:00
CanadaVisa has been printed, but not mailed.
Hang in there Kayla - you'll get good news soon I'm sure!

I remember back in December my fiancee was approved on 12/15/09 at the HCMC Vietnam consulate and we were told to return on 12/22/09 to pick up the visa. When we returned we were given a 221g!!! Imagine our dismay. We returned every week to the consulate as they sorted out an error on thier end. We were told we were approved in the system and they were trying to get it fixed.
Next week - no news :unsure:
Next week - no news :wacko:
Next week - finally - the girl told me she had great news and the visa was printed
I jumped for joy - then asked - well can we have it!
Nope - please come back in one week - we have to assemble her packet and she needs to come in for instructions!! :bonk:

Fiinally on January 11th we went to the consulate and received her passport and visa.
Entered the US on 1/16/2010!

I feel your pain - but look at the bright side - its printed and Mathew will have it soon.
Hang in there and Best Wishes!!!!!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-06 12:46:00
Canadaquick question
DOS is the US Department of State

State Dept Number : 1-202-663-1225
Fax (202) 663-3899


PRESS 1, 0 THEN ANOTHER 0


Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-21 07:50:00
CanadaYAY...FINALLY
Hooray Hooray Hooray :dance: That is so wonderful! After all the stress and things you have endured I started tearing up reading your post!

Congrats and Yipieeeeeeeeee (my god - I don't even know how to spell yipieeeeee :rofl:
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-27 14:16:00
CanadaVISA APPROVED!!! YEAH!!!!!!!
Congrats :thumbs: Always great to hear GOOD NEWS
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-27 09:18:00
CanadaVisa Has Arrived!
Congrats :dance:
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-30 14:25:00
CanadaAPPROVED!!
Congratulations :dance:
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-30 12:43:00
CanadaSuccessful POE!!!
Congrats :thumbs:
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-04-29 10:38:00
CanadaMedical Vaccination Requirements....HELP!!!
In regards to the Hepatitus A vaccination - look at the chart for age appropriate vaccinations :no: I don't think you will fall into the age group requiring this!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-05-07 11:47:00
CanadaPutting my ducks in a row!
We went through a different country and were required to have birth certificates and copies for each of us at the interview. You might want to double check if you need both the applicant and petitioner birth certificates for your interview.

Good Luck and Best Wishes
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-05-10 07:13:00
CanadaK1 Interview and previous TN Visa
I would suspect that the passport stamps and visa are sufficient as they prove the outcome of the application.

It should also be disclosed on the consular forms where asked about previous visas.

Unless your TN Status was revoked for some reason. Then it might be a red flag and require additional explaining.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-05-26 12:31:00
CanadaPhotos of the Consulate in Montreal
I saw people trying to snap some shots of the consulate in Ho Chi Minh City and as soon as the camera was seen the guards started approaching with a really nasty look on their faces, and considering the VN guards are carrying nasty looking weapons, they put their cameras away immediatley!!!!!!!!! I did manage to sneak a shot or two from accross the street when it was very busy! Was anyone "official" aware you were taking photo's? Just wondering if the sense of security is different in different parts of the world?
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-01-26 17:16:00
CanadaAOS question portal!
We are filing our AOS paperwork now.

We are sending a copy of the original NOA2 (original remains with us - will take to interview)

A copy of the DS-3025 will be included with the I-693 section of the AOS package along with copies of my wifes other vaccination records (she received almost all here in the US). Originals will be retained by us to take to the interview.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-06-02 11:40:00
CanadaChest X-ray to be given at POE?
The chest x-ray is for your medical records. May never be needed again but always good to hang on to. Try not to bend or fold it or it may be rendered useless. They are a pain to carry around but we hand carried ours to prevent damage.

If nothing else, they make for an interesting wall hanging :bonk:
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-06-08 15:53:00
CanadaAfter Interview, Before POE?
Just your passport with visa stuck to a page and the packet from the consulate to present at POE.

I don't know about Canada, alot of consulates do not issue same day as interview as they have to assemble the "brown package", print the visa, stick it in the passport etc..

The Canadian group will be able to advise you on just how it works.

Good Luck!!!!!!!!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-06-08 15:59:00
CanadaI-134 Signing the Form

I-134 Affidavit of Support form. Ensure it is signed, with all required supporting evidence.


This is from the K-1 guide. "Ensure it is signed"!!!!!!

Yes, each sponser signs the I-134 for which they are completing.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-06-09 12:07:00
CanadaPost Decision Activity
Tim filed the I-129F petition - you will apply for the K-1 (sorry - technicality)

It sure sounds like you should be receiving an NOA2 soon! :thumbs:

Good Luck
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-06-11 15:33:00
CanadaGetting SSN
Check with the local courthouse where you will get your marriage liscence to see if a SS# is required. Some places do require it, some places don't. It's not the same everywhere.
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-06-11 11:59:00
Removing Conditions on Residency General DiscussionDO I NEED TO RENEW MY PASSPORT?
OK - I did some additional checking. If I am reading the information correctly, a USC can visit the PI for up to 21 days without obtaining a visa, however there is a requirment that the US passport has a validity date of 6 months past the intended length of stay.

Again - this has nothing to do with USCBP but it a requirement of the PI.

Maybe other USC's who have visited the PI and know for sure the facts can chime in.

Hope that helps!
Bernie CMaleVietnam2010-03-24 10:23:00