ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionHow to?
Hey THANKS guys!!
iKHiNGMalePhilippines2008-04-14 04:25:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionHow to?
Hi guys, quick question for those who used form I-134 before for K-1...
How do you fill-out this last part of the form?

Oath or Affirmation of Sponsor.
I acknowledge that I have read Part lll of the Instructions, Sponsor and Alien Liability, and am aware of my responsibilitiesas a sponsor under the Social Security Act, as amended, and the Food Stamp Act, as amended.
Signature of sponsor_________________ Subscribed and sworn to (affirmed) before me this _____________day of________, _________ at______?________. My commission expires on_______?________
Signature of Officer Administering Oath____________?______________ Title______?____


ok, the first four lines needs my signature, day of the month, month, then year.
how about this part?: "at" , "my commision expires on" , "Signature of Officer"..., "Title"
this part is filled out by the person who will notarize this form right?
Thanks!


K-1 Visa iKHiNG & CHaT's Timeline

Service Center : Vermont Service Center
Consulate : Manila, Philippines
EVENT DATE
I-129F Sent : 2008-02-19
I-129F NOA1 : 2008-02-28
I-129F NOA2 : 2008-03-20
NVC Received : 2008-03-22
NVC Left : 2008-03-26
Consulate Received : ??
Packet 3 Received : 2008-04-09
Medical Exam: 2008-05-14
Interview Date: 2008-05-21

Edited by ikhing, 13 April 2008 - 11:18 PM.

iKHiNGMalePhilippines2008-04-13 23:14:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionVisa Approved!
Good News guys! my fiancee's interview earlier today was a success..she got APPROVED!! she received a pink slip, paid delbros and she was out of the embassy at 10am. good.gif
she said the interview was quick and they didn't ask a lot of questions, just basic stuff about me and our relationship. I'm glad this process is over..for now. next is AOS but we've got everything we need already and we have VisaJourney kicking.gif so we're confident that the next step will be easy.
Thank You Lord, Thank You VJers and Thank You VisaJourney!!
iKHiNGMalePhilippines2008-05-21 03:19:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionTax Transcripts(from IRS) vs. Income Tax Return(with W-2s)
Is it better to provide Tax Transcripts (from IRS) than to provide Income Tax Return along with W-2's? My problem is, I can't find my ITR from 2006. But I remember I filed my tax return for 2006 at a H&R Block office and I know I can just request for a copy but what about the W-2? I know I'm gonna have a hard time requesting my employer for another W-2 copy from 2 years ago.
Thanks in advanced guys!
iKHiNGMalePhilippines2008-04-06 01:57:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNew and scared! About to send my I-130
Hi there! So, here I go. I am about to embark on my own journey. I have been faithful to the VJ site for a long time, monitoring and reading posts and stories of couples who are much like my husband and I. It's amazing to find such solidarity and I am thankful to those faithful to this site and its makers, to know that I am not the only one who has found love through long distance and extraordinary circumstances. I married the love of my life... after three long years of long distance dating... this past June. After much debate and flying back twice to Nicaragua to obtain final proof and documents, I am ready to submit my I-130! I am excited and scared, and so many emotions all in one. All I can say with certainty is just how much I love my Beloved Husband, and how much I am trusting and believing that God will grant the desire of my heart to have my husband by my side. I have been on this website, reading the guides countless amounts of times, as well as on the USCIS website. I don't think a person can be absolutely 100% ready or prepared, but I can definately say that I did, and continue to do, my research. All that is left is to take a deep breath and leap into the unknown! Wish me luck!!! I will be faithful and keep you all posted on my journey, and pray that it is a successful one!!!
Jada Lvs YaderFemaleNicaragua2009-10-25 20:36:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresI PASSED THE INTERVIEW..
I am very happy for you, without even knowing you! I am so proud of you, your endurance... and the love you have for your husband. I think this is a commonality we all share on this site, myself included! In reading your post today, you have inspired me to continue to TRUST. Trust in God, first and foremost, and then believe that the love I share with my husband has been and will continue to be what brings us through. It gives me hope that some day, hopefully in the near future, I can post about triumph, celebration and victory just like you. I am at the very beginning of my journey, I am about to submit my I-130 to the USCIS and I am nervous! Please keep me in your prayers!!! I look forward to continuing to hear your story and sharing mine as well! Wish me luch, cuz here I go!!!
Jada Lvs YaderFemaleNicaragua2009-10-24 14:25:00
National Visa Center (Dept of State)Clearance Delay status at DHL

Hullo Kurt -

China Clearance Delay is some problem for Guangzhou-bound petitions.

Could you do me a favor ? Could you PLEASE Select 'China' in yer profile settings?

We've many members here that can help you, that LOOK at China-specific topics , first, VIA THE PORTAL.

Without being 'homed' to China in yer profile, your topic won't show up in the China Portal.
---

Now - on to yer question.

Oh My - tracking via DHL - that's absolutely the most ####### thing you could dig into, to do.
DHL to Guangzhou IV Unit is a big cr@pshoot, as USUALLY casefiles are HELD in a bonded customs warehouse in Guangzhou, anywhere from 1 to 4 months, prior to GUZ IV being 'allowed' to come get them. With that said, though - you might get LUCKY - you'll need to find out exactly HOW yer casefile was transmitted/sent to GUZ IV - IF sent via SAFEFILE SOLELY or a combo of 'SAFEFILE/DHL'. IF SAFEFILE SOLELY - you'll get some speed, otherwise be prepared for a very long wait.

There are OTHER timeticks, OTHER things that are important, for China-bound petitions, in lieu of 'DHL Tracking':

Calling NVC Human™-
--get the GUZ casefile #
--ask them when it left
--ask them if 'SAFEFILE SOLELY' or 'DHL and SAFEFILE'

Calling DoS Hotline (# in my profile) Human™- ask for casefile status - you can receive from DoS Hotline
--when the casefile was opened in GUZ
--when the P3 is sent out
--when the interview is scheduled
--the interview date
--casefile status after interview

Now - you can get some speed on the P3 processing, IF you are monitoring things with the Dos Hotline Human™ - please review http://www.visajourn...GUZ_P3_Shortcut



Thanks for the reply.
I changed the settings in my profile. i hope i did it correct. Sorry about that.
I called NVC and got my GUZ number and the day it was shipped. I didn't know to ask anything else. The customer service rep did say i could call DoS to verify that it arrived, but i haven't yet. I looked at other timelines from members who were similiar to mine and saw that it was about a week before arriveing at GUZ embassy. I hope I get lucky and they get it soon.

Thanks

Kurt and Ellen


Timeline

July 2009 - Met online
October 2009 - Met for first time in Shanghai
February 2010 - Ellen visited me in USA
March 2010 - Engaged
March 30, 21010 - Sent i-129f packet Priority mail
April 2, 2010 - USCIS received
April 6, 2010 - Received NOA1 in mail, dated April 2, 2010
April 7, 2010 - USCIS cashed check
June 2, 2010 - Called USCIS Customer Service, no update (60 days)
July 2, 2010 - Called USCIS Customer Service, no update (90 days)
July 9, 2010 - USCIS website still showing status as 'In Review'
July 11, 2010 - Website says ' Post decision Activity'. Application approved (98 days)
July 17, 2010 - Received hardcopy of NOA2
July 19, 2010 - tried to contact NVC for status. Could not get through. busy signal all day
July 19, 2010 - Finally reach NVC by phone (646pm EST). Case was forwarded to China embassy today
JuLY 21, 2010 - DHL website shows package sent to China
Khomer1964MaleChina2010-07-22 12:46:00
National Visa Center (Dept of State)Clearance Delay status at DHL
Hello All,
I was able to use the information from VJ for tracking my package on the DHL website. I located the date that my package was sent from NVC and put in the tracking field. Now, when i check the results, it shows a package arriving in China on 7/19/10,the same day NVC said my package had left. Obviously, this is not my package. Now above that it shows another package to China on 7/21/10, with a status of 'Clearance Delay'. How do I know which one could be my package. My package left NVC on 7/19/10. So could this be my package in 'Clearance delay' in China? Not sure how i can tell if it has arrive abroad or not. Thanks for your assistance with this. Just want to make sure it has arrived so i can tell my fiancee to look out for it.

Thank you
Kurt and Ellen

Kurt and Ellen

July 2009 - Met online
October 2009 - Met for first time in Shanghai
February 2010 - Ellen visited me in USA
March 2010 - Engaged
March 30, 21010 - Sent i-129f packet Priority mail
April 2, 2010 - USCIS received
April 6, 2010 - Received NOA1 in mail, dated April 2, 2010
April 7, 2010 - USCIS cashed check
June 2, 2010 - Called USCIS Customer Service, no update (60 days)
July 2, 2010 - Called USCIS Customer Service, no update (90 days)
July 9, 2010 - USCIS website still showing status as 'In Review'
July 11, 2010 - Website says ' Post decision Activity'. Application approved (98 days)
July 17, 2010 - Received hardcopy of NOA2
July 19, 2010 - tried to contact NVC for status. Could not get through. busy signal all day
July 19, 2010 - Finally reach NVC by phone (646pm EST). Case was forwarded to China embassy today
JuLY 21, 2010 - DHL website shows package sent to China
Khomer1964MaleChina2010-07-22 10:56:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresWhat is this letter I received?...is this the NOA2 for my I-129F?


:help: Ok, here's my situation. I began applying for a K-3 visa for my wife in the Philippines in Oct. 2005. I received the NOA1 for the I-130 in a timely manner as well as the NOA1 for the I-129F. Both of those documents looked very "formal" having I-797C Notice of Action printed on the top and Department of Homeland Security. About 7 weeks after receiving the NOA1 for the I-129F, I received a letter from the Bureau of Consular Affairs stating that the "State Department NVC has recently received an approved I-129F petition filed on behalf of your spouse. This letter is to let you know that within a week the petition will be forwarded to the visa-issuing post overseas that is responsible for processing visa cases originating in the country where you were married (Phil.). Your spouse will soon receive a packet with instructions from the consular section at this post (USA) on how to apply for the K3 visa at that post and what documents will be required." This letter DID NOT have Notice of Action at the top but did also include a case number (MNL200584XXX). My question is.....is this letter the NOA2 for the I-129F?? :unsure: If so (referring to my timeline here on visajourney), how do I find out date the package was recieved by the NVC, date the package left the NVC, or date package was received by the consulate? Do I just guess based on when I received that letter?....or will I get another letter? As far as I know, we are just in the process of waiting on that packet for my wife. I've been very organized up to this point and if someone could help me get all this clear I'd really appreciate it. :thumbs:


That letter from the NVC is not what we on VJ call NOA2. The NOA2 is form I-797, Notice of Approval. You should have received the form I-797 along with the letter from the NVC. You will not receive any more notices regarding the I-129F after the I-797 and the letter from the NVC. Your wife however will receive a packet from Manila.

To find out the date NVC received your petition you can call them. Usually you can guess the date by looking at the case number. Take your case for example. MNL2005 is the consulate and year. Subtract 500 from 84X and you will get the day in 2005 that NVC assigned a case number to your I-129F. So if your case number is MNL2005846XXXXX, then NVC assigned a case number on December 12, 2005.

As to when the case left NVC, you will just have to call them. You can find out when the consulate put your case into their computer if you contact them or call the visa office at 202-663-1225.

Good luck.


Thanks for responding so quickly. So, I'm clear, I HAVE NOT received the NOA2 yet, right?....the NOA2 will actually have I-797, Notice Of Approval written at the top? And you're also saying that I should have received that NOA2 along with this NVC letter I already have? I got the NOA1 (I-129F) on Nov.6th and the NVC letter was dated Dec.15. Do you think I should have received the NOA2 by now since it didn't come with the NVC letter? Thanks again, I hope I haven't made this too confusing.
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-02-12 19:12:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresWhat is this letter I received?...is this the NOA2 for my I-129F?
:help: Ok, here's my situation. I began applying for a K-3 visa for my wife in the Philippines in Oct. 2005. I received the NOA1 for the I-130 in a timely manner as well as the NOA1 for the I-129F. Both of those documents looked very "formal" having I-797C Notice of Action printed on the top and Department of Homeland Security. About 7 weeks after receiving the NOA1 for the I-129F, I received a letter from the Bureau of Consular Affairs stating that the "State Department NVC has recently received an approved I-129F petition filed on behalf of your spouse. This letter is to let you know that within a week the petition will be forwarded to the visa-issuing post overseas that is responsible for processing visa cases originating in the country where you were married (Phil.). Your spouse will soon receive a packet with instructions from the consular section at this post (USA) on how to apply for the K3 visa at that post and what documents will be required." This letter DID NOT have Notice of Action at the top but did also include a case number (MNL200584XXX). My question is.....is this letter the NOA2 for the I-129F?? :unsure: If so (referring to my timeline here on visajourney), how do I find out date the package was recieved by the NVC, date the package left the NVC, or date package was received by the consulate? Do I just guess based on when I received that letter?....or will I get another letter? As far as I know, we are just in the process of waiting on that packet for my wife. I've been very organized up to this point and if someone could help me get all this clear I'd really appreciate it. :thumbs:
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-02-12 18:36:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresAffidavit of Support question...do I need tax returns?
I am applying for a K-3 visa for my wife currently in the Philippines. I understand that for the K-3 I am to send her the I-134, not the I-864, right?? The I-864 is filed after she gets to the USA and is applying for adjustment of status, right?? I'm concerned because I have seen so much talk here in the forum about being prepared with the right tax returns. Am I correct with the understanding that NO tax returns will be required at our interview or at any point prior to her arrival in the USA? ....the instructions for filing out the I-134 only mention tax returns if your self employed. All of the other required documents for the I-134 (Statement from officer at my bank, letter of verified employment from employer, copies of paystubs and investment accounts, and completed, notarized I-134) are ready to go. Thanks for you help!
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-02-12 20:22:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPaperwork for co-sponsor for (K3) 1-134 Support
I've filled out all I-134 information for myself and I think I'm okay but, I don't want to take any chances. I have a cosponsor but I'm not familiar with the paperwork he needs to fill out. Does he do the exact same thing I did? ....including - I-134 form, Statement from bank,...etc. ?? Also, my sponsor, is retired and receives 2 pensions. Because of that, he obviously cannot submit employment verification, what needs to be submitted in its place? BTW , I'm filing K-3 and my wife is still awaiting her packet. Thanks so much for any information on this. This forum is a lifesaver.
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-02-21 11:41:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresShould I put I-134 on 1 page (front and back)??
In doing research, I've found that some sites say to put both pages of the I-134 on one page (front and back) and others don't mention it at all. Does this really matter?
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-02-23 10:47:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresStupid Question about I-129F
You could make copies and use the same ones but I would make sure that the signatures are not copies (just to be safe). Also, make sure that you have 4 for you and 4 for your spouse. And don't worry about it!...no question is stupid! I think everyone here is trying to be 100% accurate before submitting anything :thumbs:
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-02-23 10:35:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresHow long from the interview to getting the visa in hand??
Can anyone out there that has been through this tell me exactly how long it took them to receive their approved (K-3) visa from their interview date? My wife lives on a smaller province (Masbate) where mail delivery may take longer....will this make a difference? Any information on this general subject or about the span of time this may take would be really helpful. Thanks!
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-11 22:56:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresCan I be with my wife during her visa interview?
I hope this isn't a dumb question....but, can I be with my wife during the actual interview for her K-3 visa in Manila? I mean acutally be there in the same room with her as she is being interviewed?
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-12 20:17:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresIs there a link to recent Manila interview dates??


I'm starting to notice that many people in the same "timeframe" as me (received my NOA2 Dec.29th) are already posting their interview dates and they haven't yet received their packet. Is there a specific place/number I can call who may have this info? Also, ...I have a link (http://usembassy.sta...p1/wwwfvisa.pdf) that gives literally hundreds of interview dates (based on case #) for Manila......does anyone know of an updated link that shows recent dates for April/May?? I'm really only interested in Manila but any info on this would really help :)
Thanks

You can call the dept of state @ 202-663-1225 x100 they would be able to tell you also with times for interview and medical.


Jose

Thanks so much. I called yesterday and found out that she has an interview 4-27 and medical on 4-20. Life is good!
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-15 18:40:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresIs there a link to recent Manila interview dates??
I'm starting to notice that many people in the same "timeframe" as me (received my NOA2 Dec.29th) are already posting their interview dates and they haven't yet received their packet. Is there a specific place/number I can call who may have this info? Also, ...I have a link (http://usembassy.sta...p1/wwwfvisa.pdf) that gives literally hundreds of interview dates (based on case #) for Manila......does anyone know of an updated link that shows recent dates for April/May?? I'm really only interested in Manila but any info on this would really help :)
Thanks
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-13 18:00:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresMaking Manila travel plans to be with wife during interview
Ok, here's my situation. For starters, I'm going to Manila. I can only stay in the Philippines for 21 days on just my passport. The thing is, although we are anticipating zero problems of being approved, you never know and we may be waiting for delivery of the visa beyond those 21 days. I know I can get a visa (I've done it before), but if I obtained one here in the states before going you need to show proof of a return ticket to the United States or an onward ticket to another country. My problem is that I have no idea when my return date will be since we don't know the exact date of receiving the visa. And even if I did know a date and booked it, it would be very hard to get my wife's return ticket with the exact same itenerary and flights as mine. And of course, us traveling back together is VERY important....especially since she has no experience with international flying. Also, because I have to have a return ticket to the States or an onward ticket to another country just to travel with my passport, I can forget about a one way ticket. If I could get a one way ticket, then I could get my visa (extension) when I got to Manila and then when she got her visa, buy our return tickets together. I feel like there is probably a simple solution I'm overlooking but right now I'm totally stumped. Any suggestions or comments would be great. Thanks so much for all your help.
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-15 22:40:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresK-3 question - Delivery of visa and Interview questions

I forgot!!! :blush:

As for the questions, they were all so simple, and it would depent on who is interviewing of course. Ours was a guy not more then 30 years old and I think he was impressed I was there with her, but of course I got interviewed as well. Things like why him? or Why her? We didnt have any letters or emails, I just showed him $2000 of phone cards and the VOIP bill and the VOIP (voice-over-internet-protocol, basically I hooked her up with an Illinois phone number in the Phillipines). Pictures didnt seem to be too important to him, he just glanced at them and put them away. I do I need to stress : Affidavit of support and W-2s, they need this all in order to do anything for you, dont look like an idiot and not bring these things, or try to get away without them, they are hardcore about it!!! I saw a couple of cases there when there was not that included, and some of them this was their 3rd or 4th interview!!!

Other then that, remember at the end Window 35 is for those who cried about doing their best and Window 36 is for those who goes home and you know what the prom queen!! :thumbs:

Flipicaneze,
Thanks for all the information. What were the specific questions asked? Where was your visa delivered? If approved, can I tell the Embassy to mail to a hotel in Manila? Also, I have my original W-2's and Turbo-Tax print outs of all my taxes for the past 3 years. Now, these are just print outs but of course even the print outs have 1040's and are very detailed. They are not "certified copies" of my tax returns but I do have the original W-2's to back it all up. Is this okay? I also have 2 notarized Affidavits of Support (with supporting documents-employer letter, bank officer letter, etc..), 5 original recent paycheck stubs, original investment statement, over 150 photos, 3 most recent cell phone bills ($500+), evidence showing my 3 previous trips to the Phil. in 2005, evidence to show my family came to the Phil. to the wedding and will be coming again now during the interview. And also, I will be there to attend the interview with my wife. Is there any other information I should know or anything else to help me prepare? Thanks again :) ~Scott
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-25 10:25:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresK-3 question - Delivery of visa and Interview questions
Hello again. I can't tell you all how valuable all the forum information has been. What a lifesaver. My question if for those of you/or loved one who have recently experienced the interview in Manila for K-3. During the interview, what kinds of questions were asked? Also, when the visa is delivered by the courier, did your wife specifically have to be there to sign for it, or could any member of the household sign? And finally, is there anyone who can tell me their interview date, the date they were sent a text by DELBROS, and the actual date they received their visa in hand? Any information regarding this would be helpful. Thanks again! ~Scott
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-20 09:15:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresDR co-sponsor !!!!
I currently have my father as my co-sponsor. He is retired and receives 2 pension checks. But, he also files his taxes. If I'm not mistaken, even though her aunt and uncle only have SS and pension checks, they should still be filing taxes. My dad has been retired for over 10yrs. and done his taxes every year since his pension checks still count as income. Rather than W-2's, he provided me the original letters he receives on an annual basis that state his income for his pension. As far as your specific question, I'm a little stumped though because I don't see why they are not filing their taxes.

Wait, ok...I just spoke to my father. He said that although he does not receive W-2's, he DOES receive a letter similar to a W-2 that gives specific earned amounts to file with his taxes (in February). He also informed me that it is possible that if a couple doesn't "make enough money" with SS and pension,.....they are NOT required to file taxes at all. He then proceeded to tell me about my aunt and uncle who each receive SS checks, have a Roth IRA investment, but NO NOT file taxes because of their income level. There! ...now I hope that helps! :thumbs:

I currently have my father as my co-sponsor. He is retired and receives 2 pension checks. But, he also files his taxes. If I'm not mistaken, even though her aunt and uncle only have SS and pension checks, they should still be filing taxes. My dad has been retired for over 10yrs. and done his taxes every year since his pension checks still count as income. Rather than W-2's, he provided me the original letters he receives on an annual basis that state his income for his pension. As far as your specific question, I'm a little stumped though because I don't see why they are not filing their taxes.

Wait, ok...I just spoke to my father. He said that although he does not receive W-2's, he DOES receive a letter similar to a W-2 that gives specific earned amounts to file with his taxes (in February). He also informed me that it is possible that if a couple doesn't "make enough money" with SS and pension,.....they are NOT required to file taxes at all. He then proceeded to tell me about my aunt and uncle who each receive SS checks, have a Roth IRA investment, but NO NOT file taxes because of their income level. There! ...now I hope that helps! :thumbs:

Looking back at your question....just wanted to add something. Not to step on anyones toes, but I would imagine that if they are not filing their taxes at all, they are probably ineligible to be co-sponsors and may not meet the 125% poverty level. She would just need to inquire as to why they don't file taxes and what their specific annual income is.
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-27 22:04:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresVACCINATION QUESTION
Thanks for all the responses :thumbs:
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-04-12 21:07:00
K-3 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresVACCINATION QUESTION
:help: My wife will be having her Medical Exam on April 20th. While she HAS had her shots, she comes from a very rural province and they do not have records of her vaccinations. Since she cannot provide proof or records of these shots, I'm sure she'll have to have them again at St. Lukes. Will these cost extra or is that included in the $95 medical fee? ....if so, how much?
Thanks for any responses.
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-04-10 23:05:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionK-3 question - Delivery of visa and Interview questions
Hello again. I can't tell you all how valuable all of the forum information has been. What a lifesaver. My question if for those of you/or loved one who have recently experienced the interview in Manila for K-3. During the interview, what kinds of questions were asked? Also, when the visa is delivered by the courier, did your wife specifically have to be there to sign for it, or could any member of the household sign? And finally, is there anyone who can tell me their interview date, the date they were sent a text by DELBROS, and the actual date they received their visa in hand? Any information regarding this would be helpful. Thanks again! ~Scott
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-20 09:17:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionQuestion about 3 yrs. of tax returns
Does the last 3 years include 2002-2004? ..or 2003 to 2005? My 2004 exceed the 125% poverty easily but my 2005 does not due to the time I spent in the Philippines. So, obviously I would much rather bring my 2002-2004 because then my most recent (which seems to pull some weight) would be okay. HOWEVER my 2002 and 2003 don't even come close since I was in college full time (I attended college in my late 20's). I have my official transcripts showing this. Any suggestions ? Thanks, Scott
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-20 14:57:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionQuestion about delivery of Visa after approval
Thanks so much for all of your responses! :) That's exactly what I was looking for! :thumbs:
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-25 10:29:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionQuestion about delivery of Visa after approval
I've seen some posts on here stating that you can tell the Embassy, after the interview, where to send the visa. My wife lives in Masbate (very rural province) and if we had the option to have the visa delivered to a hotel or friends house in Manila, we may get it much quicker. Anyone have any information on this or know if this is true for the Philippines? Thanks.
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-24 19:19:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila airport Fee's??
Just like John, I flew out of NAIA 3 times last year (May, Sep, and Dec) and the 550php fee was all I paid also.
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-26 17:29:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionForwarding the packet to St. Lukes...

You should be able to find those forms on the internet...you will also need to pay for the interview through the BPI. There was a form in the packet for that and I am not sure where to find it. Have you tried calling the embassy?


Yeah, I got the DS forms off the internet okay and even filled those out with my wife. She has them. But, I just thought that I remember reading that the bank will know the difference between a DS form downloaded from the internet, and one in the packet. Maybe not, not sure. Yes, I do have the form listing the different banks to pay for the interview. Fortunately, a VJer posted that a while back. But, it wasn't a form to be "filled out" (is it??), it is just a form listing the different banks you can pay at. I'm calling the Embassy now.
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-04-06 19:49:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionForwarding the packet to St. Lukes...
Well, we've waited and waited but still no packet 4 for my wife. I went ahead this week and sent her a copy of the appointment letter that I received. I never got a complete packet, just the appointment letter, and my wife never got squat. :( Her medical is scheduled for April 20th and it's already April 7th. We know that she needs to bring the copy of the appnt. letter, 2x2photos, passport, and all vaccination and x-ray records. Is this all she needs to bring? I mean, based on other posts we feel confident that we know all the contents of the packet already, but someone said that the DS-156(k)(157) forms may be a little different and the bank may only accept the ones in the packet when stamping them. Have I waited to long to ask the Embassy to forward the packet? Will St. Lukes receive it in time?

Thanks for any responses. :thumbs:
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-04-06 19:33:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
Approved! I'll write more later but my wife and I just stopped by an internet cafe to check email. We both saw the green and white strip "Approved" sticker at the last window so we're in good shape. Just waiting now for the delivery. I'll check back in later.
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-05-01 01:30:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
Thanks for the wishes and all your help PW. I leave from Tampa today and arrive in Manila Wednesday morning. My wife will be meeting me there. Everything went smoothly at her medical and we're so excited that we're going to be together again soon. I'll be sure and post after the interview.
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-04-24 08:34:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
:help: My wife will be having her Medical Exam on April 20th. While she HAS had her shots, she comes from a very rural province and they do not have records of her vaccinations. Since she cannot provide proof or records of these shots, I'm sure she'll have to have them again at St. Lukes. Will these cost extra or is that included in the $95 medical fee? ....if so, how much?
Thanks for any responses.
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-04-11 12:45:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
(sorry for the repitition, I posted this in the "general area" and meant to post here in the Manila Thread)

Well, we've waited and waited but still no packet 4 for my wife. I went ahead this week and sent her a copy of the appointment letter that I received. I never got a complete packet, just the appointment letter, and my wife never got squat. :( Her medical is scheduled for April 20th and it's already April 7th. We know that she needs to bring the copy of the appnt. letter, 2x2photos, passport, and all vaccination and x-ray records. Is this all she needs to bring? I mean, based on other posts we feel confident that we know all the contents of the packet already, but someone said that the DS-156(k)(157) forms may be a little different and the bank may only accept the ones in the packet when stamping them. Have I waited to long to ask the Embassy to forward the packet? Will St. Lukes receive it in time?

Thanks for any responses. :thumbs:
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-04-06 19:42:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

ive never seen this off the front page ever was shocked to see it fall off. anyways 14 days left till yove's interview. question she was goin to stay in her province up north. but i think she would get her visa faster staying in her apt, in makati what do the masses think or know ?


I've been asking the same question recently and here's what I found out. Your right, she should get her visa faster if she stays in/close to Manila. From what I understand, the courier (DELBROS) service takes about 3-5 days delivery in Manila, 5-7 to other major cities (Cebu, Legaspi, Bocolad, etc...), and 7-10 days for other provinces. After the interview, when you are paying the courier, you can tell them where you want the visa delivered. Hope that helps. I'm getting excited too, 24 days until my wife's interview!
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-04-03 11:41:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

If you are the agent of choice that the NVC sends notices to, I doubt that your wife will receive ANYTHING from the NVC or the Manila embassy. My wife did not.

I used USPS Global Express Mail (GEM) to send my wife the package that you just received from the NVC. IIRC, it has the letters about immunizations, location of St. Luke's, interview documents required, etc. in it.

I would make a copy (scan it, if possible) of the appointment letter. It is the critical document to get into St. Luke's and then the embassy. If the express snail mail does not reach your wife in a week, send her the appointment letter by fax or an e-mail attachment. Your wife will need any proof of vaccinations that she has received before the exam at St. Luke's.

I took a copy of the NVC package with me when I went to Manila to attend my wife's interview. She had the originals that I mailed her.


When I got the appointment letter, that's all I got. No packet with letters about immunization, location of St. Lukes, interview docs. required, designated banks to pay fee, etc... It was just one letter. (BTW - What is IIRC??) On the appointment letter I received, it did say that my wife was mailed a complete packet and should be receiving it shortly (well, we know how that goes).

So, I'm going to send her a copy of the appointment letter and NVC letter. Other than that, was I correct about the process of calling the embassy to forward the packet to St. Lukes and then having my wife call to verify that they got it?

Oh, I got the full phone number on the website to contact the embassy so nevermind about that - 011(63-2-528-6300) Thanks again.
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-31 16:10:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
Ok, just starting to get a little worried. I know it takes time for the packet 4 (for my wife) to be delivered, but her medical at St. Lukes is on April 20th and still no packet. If she doesn't receive it by April 5th, I think we need to do something.

From what I understand, I can call the Embassy (WHAT IS THE FULL PHONE NUMBER??) and request that they forward my wife's packet to St. Lukes. Then, my wife could go anytime as long as she calls St. Lukes in advance and make sure they have her packet there. Right? Also, I DID receive the appointment letter here at my house in Florida, should I mail her a copy of that to bring with her?....is it necessary? Will she need to bring any documents? I thought I remember reading that if you do this, she will need to bring a copy of the NVC letter (with case number) and a copy of the appointment letter.

Help! Is this correct? Can someone explain what to do if she doesn't get her packet in the next couple of weeks. Its getting so close and the closer it gets, time goes by faster (Thank God!) Thanks for any help :)
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-31 15:08:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

I just attended my wife's IR-1 and my stepson's IR-2 interview in Manila.

From the list:

1. Embassy had the I-864 from last year. It was still good.
2. Not required.
3. Not required (I participate in the TSP retirement program as a federal employee).
4. Two photos of wedding surrendered and were sufficient.
5. No phone statements required. We did submit e-mail and letters/cards.
6. Not required (but evident by the stamps in my passport).
7. Not required.
8. Not required (my wife uses an ATM card).
9. Not required. Embassy had our 2002, 2003, and 2004 returns in the file.
(Note: 2005 return may be required for interviews after 15 April 2006).
10. Appointment letter is only required to get into embassy.
11. Embassy only asked for NSO copy of my stepson's birth certificate.
12. Only two passport photos of each person required, but extras do not hurt.
13. Not applicable to me, but probably required if you use a co-sponsor.
14. Passports do not have to be new.

Overkill. You are going to stress everybody out needlessly.

I have nothing against preparation. You will find that the vice consul will look favorably upon the fiance/husband attanding the interview and that will remove a lot of the questions that might be asked. If you sent all the required documents to the BCIS and NVC, they will be in the file.

Just be ready to recall important dates/names/places accurately from memory.


I realize that most of these things will not be needed but why risk not bringing them? I don't know what will be asked for considering every interview is different. And since this is one of the most important days of our lives, why take a chance? Maybe a bit overkill, but perhaps appropriate. Thanks for the feedback....as always, very apprecitated. :thumbs: BTW, what do you mean by important dates, names, places to recall?
What kinds of questions were you asked? Thanks ~ Scott
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-25 16:23:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
My wifes K-3 interview in Manila is one month away (4/27) and I'm just stressed about making sure I have everything necessary. I'm going to list here everything I have prepared for the actual interview. If you see anything I've left out or ANYTHING...I'm open to suggestions.

1. 2 notarized Affidavits of Support (with supporting documents)
-Employer letter, letter from officer of bank, etc..
2. 5 original recent paycheck stubs (Showing over 125% poverty level)
3. Original Roth IRA investment statement
4. Over 200 photos (wedding and other trips to the Phil.)
5. 3 most recent cell phone bills ($500+)
6. Evidence showing my 3 previous trips to the Phil. in 2005
-including iteneraries, boarding passes, hotel confirmations, dining receipts, etc...
7. Evidence to show my family (Mother, father, brother) came to the Phil. to attend the wedding and will
be coming again now during the interview (copies of their tickets/iteneraries).
8. Statement from bank verifying wire transfers to help suport my wife
9. I have my original W-2's and Turbo-Tax print outs of all my taxes for the past 3 years. Now, these
are just print outs but of course include the 1040's. They are not "certified copies" of my tax returns but
I do have the original W-2's to back it all up. Is this okay?
10. Original NOA letters and NVC letter / appointment letter
11. NSO Birth Cert's and NSO Marriage Certs. (with originals)
12. 2x2 photos's (plenty)
13. Notarized co-sponsor Affidavit of Support (if needed) with 3 recent year taxes w/original pension letters
and original title of house.
14. Passports valid for at least 5yrs. out

And finally, I will be there to "go over" possible questions prior to and attend the interview with my wife.

Whew! I think that's it. I just want to make sure that we are 110% ready. I hope this may have helped others who are in the same situation and trying to prepare.

Is there any other information I should know or anything else to help me prepare? Thanks for all the information.
scott300hpNot TellingPhilippines2006-03-25 13:46:00