ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionMarried 2 years separate/visa denial strange circumstances
That's terrible what happened to that friend of yours. Thanks so much for sharing, I think I may have gotten the answer to my question on another board.
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2008-12-28 15:02:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionMarried 2 years separate/visa denial strange circumstances
Thanks for your response. I suppose I didn't have a question. Just trying to find a way to cope with the long wait and the denial. I do plan to go for any future interview because I do believe that I would like to meet the people there and be there with my Husband through the rather nervewrecking process. We had to do so much apart it makes no sense, so we're looking for a way our circumstances make it very difficult for me to stay with him there for very long. I sort of get the feeling that in countries where there is much fraud and dishonesty that this is a way of weeding out the genuine from the frauds.

Cheers! Have a good day.
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2008-12-28 14:46:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionMarried 2 years separate/visa denial strange circumstances
I'm new to this site, mostly came on to find some sort of hope or similar experience with Embassy in Lagos Nigeria. I don't know where our case is going and the situation is such that visiting my Husband is going to take some miracles.

The long and short of it, we're married for about 2 years now, last summer was denied our I129 much to the surprise of our lawyer as well. "no evidence of bona fied relationship." - As I have read all over this website everyone too explained their surprise due to the poundage of evidence supplied that somehow their relationship was not bona fied.

Trying to sort through all these feelings of shock and anger at being separated for really no seemingly plausible reason but keeping faith that at some point something has to happen.

There was the strange events prior to our denial...Before our packet left the service center in US it was MIA for months then in Nigeria the loss of the interview letter and package by the Embassy and waiting months to get any info about it - no offer to replace the MIA packet and no responce either.

8 months later we have a interview notice in 2 weeks - after lawyer directly contacts them to find out when our date is! Not allowing my spouse in for his interiview on the day claiming he wasn't my husband...

Senator gets involved just to get him in the door for his interview. We've been together years before - plenty of evidence - not much interest in it. Denial. That was about 8 or 9 months ago. Senator office still supporting our situation. No word from the Service Center. It's near impossible due to so many circumstances to visit my Husband. Not sleeping, wondering when we'll finally be together and what more stress to prepare oneself for.

People in my circle said they had no idea a spouse could be denied a visa. Due to the previous events I wasn't entirely shocked but we really felt that they would see obviously that there was no reason for us to be denied. He is upstanding citizen, no threat and it's not difficult to see our relationship is bona fied. I wonder what is coming next. Any comments would be more appreciated. It's like being on a island with "other" people who have no idea what this is like. - Thanks for reading.
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2008-12-28 13:04:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionI-130 interview together?
QUOTE (cornbread @ Jun 29 2009, 08:31 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (ellmvl @ Jun 29 2009, 05:14 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
The interview is intended only for the beneficiary but they also allow your USC spouse to be there with you on the interview if you want...but not necessary. I went to my interview alone...no problem smile.gif

This is not a regular interview for her.

From other posts on VJ where people have had this type of interview, they are sometimes conducted together and sometimes each spouse is asked questions separately. It is best if you both have a complete set of the information you have submitted and the evidence with you at your interview, so that you can both be prepared if interviewed separately. I have read one other post from Lagos where the spouses were questioned separately.

And Congratulations good.gif


Thanks cornbread! I have read too where spouses are interviewed separately. The lawyer I hired said where there is good faith relationship talking about it has never been a problem - she said that is the preparation. I thought when I hired her that I would get prepared more then that and I'm frustrated. Unfortunately we don't have a copy of the original petition - it was irretrievably lost. however there are only so many answers to be named on the petition as the questions would be pretty straight forward things you know.

I'm frustrated because the lawyer thinks we'll be interviewed together and because we're married over 2 years they'll be easy on us at Lagos, she wants to know where I'm basically getting my hair brained ideas. I hope she is right.

Thanks again...


QUOTE (TBoneTX @ Jun 29 2009, 08:39 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (ellmvl @ Jun 29 2009, 07:14 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
not necessary. I went to my interview alone
This is perilous advice to follow. I know of no one who regretted attending the interview with the beneficiary, and a GREAT MANY who are kicking themselves to this day for NOT having attended.


I'll be there Whenever we get the interview date [ I did not go to fiance one and regretted it ] and hope they let me be with my Hubby.
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-06-29 17:34:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionI-130 interview together?
QUOTE (ellmvl @ Jun 29 2009, 04:14 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
The interview is intended only for the beneficiary but they also allow your USC spouse to be there with you on the interview if you want...but not necessary. I went to my interview alone...no problem smile.gif


Thanks!

Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-06-29 10:02:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionI-130 interview together?
Hi,

I was wondering if anyone in an I-130 spouse interview did their interview as a couple or do they conduct them separately?

Thanks
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-06-29 06:15:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionCitizenship Test: Sentence Writing

Hello Fellow Visa Journeyer's,

 

Me and my husband are about to enter into the naturalization process.  Anyone have experience to share about the sentence writing aspect of the exam?  This is the part of the exam I worry most for my husband and I want to do what I can to help him.  Any thoughts or experiences would be great!

 

Afrilaskan Queen


Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2013-05-22 15:25:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionBiometrics appointment AFTER Interview date unusual??

Thanks for your responses!

 

Yes, I am sure that the biometrics is scheduled for after the interview date, I have both letters.  It doesn't sound right.  I am going to call USCIS.  I am also going to take Trooper's advice and go into the ASC office and talk to their manager with both letters in hand. We definitely don't want to reschedule the interview/biometrics. 

 

If anyone else has heard of this or has experienced this I would still appreciate more input.


Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2013-12-14 16:22:00
US Citizenship General DiscussionBiometrics appointment AFTER Interview date unusual??

Hello Fellow Visa Journey Members!

 

First let me apologize; I have updated my timeline on Visa Journey but I keep gettgin "Error" in red, that my NOA dates or incorrect.  My dates are correct I think.

 

My question:  Is having biometrics after our naturalization interview going to cause problems?

 

The Dates:

 

Filed N-400: August 1, 2013.  

Naturalization Interview: January 6, 2013 in Anchorage (traveling 350+ miles away)

ASC Appointment for Biometrics:  January 13, 2013 in Fairbanks (350+ miles from interview city).

 

Not sure this is important -- but I also noted that our lawyer has not received our naturalization interview appointment letter yet, only the biometrics letter.  Online when I checked the status of our case it also does not show the interview as scheduled yet but we received our letter about a week ago.

 

We requested our interview and biometrics appointment be in Anchorage, Alaska as it is the only field office.  They do some things in Fairbanks, but not consistently because there is no permanent office.  It is a 7 hour drive between cities so you see we cannot just pick up and drive over if there is a problem.

 

Our lawyer suggested we go on our day of naturalization interview at 10:30 we go early at 9am, show them our two appointment letters for biometrics and the naturalization interview, and request they do the biometrics.  I suspect this won't work.

 

Any thoughts are appreciated. 


Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2013-12-13 22:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsImmigration agency says backlog virtually gone
Read this in the news today as well, I was going to call with great excitement to uscis and tell them I read the good news and am glad the 2 year wait is over! good.gif lol... this must only apply to very specific situations. [insert confused look here.]

Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-06-23 00:05:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsFiance received a surprise call from the Embassy!
That's so incredible! CONGRATULATIONS!! dancin5hr.gif dancin5hr.gif
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-06-19 18:02:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresa nightmare - need input
QUOTE (tngirl21809 @ May 12 2009, 09:48 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
the record helps... but usually, the interviewee must answer the questions proficiently and must have all details of your life in order.
maybe someone here can refer you to a good immigration lawyer who can help you withdraw and refile a new petition.

I don't know for sure, but i read somewhere where it says when there's a misrepresentation in a petition, the beneficiary might get a ban or something like that.. NOT SURE.


Thanks for taking the time to respond to my post. I believe now looking at things with perspective that we did things as best we could and our case has not been reviewed yet even. Thanks for noting about the ban because it's important to look at all of the facts but I know that's not a problem in our case which is fortunate. Thank you and have a good day!

Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-05-14 01:02:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresa nightmare - need input
QUOTE (brnidokiegurl @ May 13 2009, 02:47 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I know of a couple thru MENA also married and returned and its been about 2-3 years and they are still waiting, i believe i would refile either way your going to have about another year to wait thru casa refile often works i dotn know how your embassy handles this, i believe marc ellis advises not to withdraw any applications they would just be merged in the end



Thanks - I've gotten some valuable hope and information. Thank you for being balanced but also giving your opinion. Appreciate it, thank you very much.
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-05-14 00:52:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresa nightmare - need input



Thank you so much for your input.

Oddly enough our denial did not have any information and that's why I am confused. There were 3 reasons on the sheet and none of them made sense to me. It said my husband stated he had not heard of our religious organization - which is where we met and attended and he would have no reason to state that. They said it did not match the approved petition and they believed he was deceiving me. After loads of communicating I felt it was a wording miscommunication and so did our senator.

The Senator intervened and said there was miscommunications of some sort and submitted our religious organizations records and affidavits but they refused.. But to get the original interview the Senator had already intervened because they sent my hubby away before his interview and didn't allow him in and said he was fraud before even signing him past the gate!

My husband is not fluent in English but speaks very well and also has speech impediments which I wondered if it caused problems I mean he does not embellish his sentences - is that what you may mean about questions about petitioners famiy and life? They asked him 2 questions about my life, my work and where I live. But it was pretty rushed and they didn't let him finish his sentences and he speaks slowly due to his impediment.

So you are saying that our near daily phone calls for 2 years of marriage and our dating records Years before that as well as our being together do not mean anything? I am so confused!
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-05-12 22:08:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresa nightmare - need input
I normally post in the African sub-Saharan and I am not familiar enough with this website to even know what this form of visa entails or means. Please forgive me if I'm in the wrong area and misdirect me.

I feel I'm in a nightmare in which I will awake.

The long and short is that from end to beginning me and my hubby's case was mishandled. We were friends a year, dated for 1 more year, married in 2007, were approved quickly, more then 1 year ago we were denied our I-129 after my husbands interview and our case has sat at a California service center since August 2008.

Months ago the Senator of my state intervened and asked our case expedited, we are married 2 years now and presented a lot of evidence. They told our senator that we would have to wait a standard 24 months and there is nothing they could do. The lawyer I spoke to suggested re-filed our I-130 again though it is approved it cannot be freed up with the failed I-129.

We've had more trouble from the beginning that I've considered moving towards the media. I do not know who to contact and I do not know the next step. I know God is great. I need any direction or input that can be given. Please help if you can I just got this news about 15 minutes ago but am trying to remain calm and pray for a miracle. I don't understand the reasoning behind it, neither of us have a criminal record, we were denied for insufficient evidence of bonafied relationship and yet our evidence was not lacking. Thank You for reading this. I cannot move to my husbands home area as it is literally dangerous for me, I feel we are stuck in a nightmare.
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-05-12 20:17:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresInterview Question

Hi all,
My husband has his interview next month at USEM Riyadh. Do they allow the petitioner to attend? If so, should i go? Would that make a big difference?
Thanks for your opinions and suggestions.


Hi Congrats on your interview! I would say, yes, go to the interview. I didn't go to my husbands, and we had to wait another 2 years after his visa was denied. If something comes up you are the U.S citizen and can fight for rights. I would give anything to go back in time and be there with my husband, I didn't have the funds at the time, but even if he was denied again I wish we had experienced it together - instead we had to cry with each other over the phone. I do not know if they allow the petitioner to attend there, but from other posts it sounds like no, however they don't at our consulate either and yet it does give the consulate a positive view of your committmnt I believe. All the best!!
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2010-05-23 16:12:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresdenial reaffirmed case at NVC and a new interview

Is there any possible way you could be there, in Nigeria, when he is interviewed? He could bring in your passport to show you are in the country (I assume you'll be given an entry stamp). This may help with the validity questions

Good luck


Hello canadian_wife,

Yes, I have been planning for the past year to be at this interview, I will be there at the Embassy though I realize I cannot actually come in for the interview. I am so anxious for the date and to get my ticket in advance if possible. thanks for your encouragement. I do hope it will make a difference, and I really do not want to leave the country again without my hubby - it feels like your heart is being put in half.

Take Care
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2010-06-04 02:38:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresdenial reaffirmed case at NVC and a new interview

Since you are already dealing with a difficult consulate, I would (of course) tell the truth, but with every answer offer evidence.

For Example

Question: "How long have you known your husband?"
Answer: "For x years, as you can see by our phone lots and e-mails, we've been in constant contact since then and these boarding passes show many vists since our first meeting"

Good luck


Hello Canadian_Wife,

Thank you for this suggestion! I think that's an excellent way of showing our evidence and answering the questions. I believe they will want to see evidence from prior to our marriage since one of the reasons for denial was that we didn't bring evidence (which wasn't true). There is very few emails, mostly pictures/travel/phone records.

I am trying to figure out how many pictures to bring, how many is too many. I dont' believe they will sit and thumb through the 5000 pics we have...lol. But I learned from the first interview that they look at these pictures critically, it seems odd to me, I mean we just took pictures when we wanted to and we looked into the camera and smiled, but the found that to be suspcious and posed. I cannot seem to put myself in the interviewers place, because I see our loving relationship - but they are looking for a reason that it's not.

Well I appreciate your suggestion, I will suggest my husband keep that in mind when he interviews. Thank You. :star:
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2010-06-03 05:04:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresdenial reaffirmed case at NVC and a new interview

Be prepared to address the reasons for the initial denial in pretty much the same way you did to get the case reaffirmed. You've given no information about the issues that caused the initial denial so without a clear understanding of them, how much more do you expect in the way of counsel here?


Hi pushbrk,

Well the denial reasons were that we came to the interview without any evidence (i.e. emails, photos), which wasn't true. The other was the photos they did see were posed for the immigration process (huh?), the last one was denial based on marrying on my first trip to my hubby's country. However when our case was reapproved, the request was not to meet burden of proof on those reasons, they wanted more evidence of a continuing relationship, so that is what we sent.

Do you have suggestion now? Thank You.
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2010-06-03 03:23:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresdenial reaffirmed case at NVC and a new interview

Good luck with everything!


Thanks TeyaValentina! I hope it is very soon! I miss my hubby so much.
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2010-06-03 03:21:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresdenial reaffirmed case at NVC and a new interview
Hello All,

I have some questions about IR-1 visa interview.

For those who don't know, our petition was approved in 2007, we had an I-129 interview (but we were married, using I-130 after U.S. arrival). That interview resulted in a denial. Finally in 2010 our case was reaffirmed or reapproved, sent to NVC. Our case is only waiting on one more piece of paper and then our petition (now called an IR-1) will be sent to the embassy.

We are married over 3 years now, due to extenuating circumstances I have been unable to live in the country my husband lives, only long visits. I do not know what to expect with an IR-1 interview. Last time we just spoke the truth, but later found out our case was never even looked at in the Embassy, the whole situation was just incredible stressful.

Once NVC has our last required paper, I wonder how to prepare for all of this.

Thanks
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2010-06-01 21:10:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPolice Certificate in another country, can we get it via mail?

ya- review his visa stamps, work up a timeline on paper - if the longest duration is less than 6 months, no need for Benin Police Certificate. Otherwise - need to get it.

When you do call in to NVC, ask for a Supervisor - the front-line clerk you talk with, won't know much.


Thank you - good thinking Darnell, I need to speak to a supervisor about this one!
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2010-05-24 04:01:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPolice Certificate in another country, can we get it via mail?
Thank You! All four of these replies had helpful suggestions. Me and my husband have filed an IR1. We were approved in 2007 and finally going for this visa interview. I think I will call NVC, explain my husband traveled in and out of Benin, that is because he never was a resident but stayed a long time.

I am confused about what constitutes living there, it sounds like 6 months or more. I will look at my husbands passport to see the all the dates. I think I should confirm with NVC that the Consulate wouldn't require a police certificate from Benin either. I am concerned about any holdup on the visa, as NigeriaorBust said. It would be very difficult cost wise for us to go to Benin, I wondered if Lagos could make a request for his records.

Thanks again for your thoughts, if you have any more suggestion or extra thoughts I'm very open to it. Have a lovely day!
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2010-05-23 16:07:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresPolice Certificate in another country, can we get it via mail?
Hi All,

My husband just completed the police certificate to send to NVC, for the country he is resident. From 2006-2007 my husband received a travel permit several times to stay in Benin, the neighboring country. If a police certificate is required for this country, can we obtain the certificate without him traveling to Benin? He doesn't live there, in fact he's hundreds and hundreds of miles away. s this required? Please, what anyone who knows what to do in is regard, I appreciate it very much!

The instructions for that Benin police certificate are here:

BENIN - Available in part.
Persons born in countries which use the casier judiciaire (a combined prison and police record) may
obtain a copy of this record from the competent authorities in their native country. In the case of
countries other than Benin, this record should contain the police and prison records from Benin, if any.
A native-born Beninese should apply to the Tribunal de Premiere Instance which has his birthplace
within its jurisdiction. The document may be obtained by mail.

Thank You,
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2010-05-23 00:43:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedures2007 petition interviewing in 2010

tokyo embassy said that if you made any changes to the information to just bring the updated documents to the interview.


if things are wrong or have changed maybe make one PERFECT copy of the DS-230 and AOS to bring to the interview and give it to the interviewer??


That is a good idea, I can bring a perfect copy of the DS-230. The actual petition at uscis those years ago has an incorrect address during a time period, that is on the I-130, but the DS-230 form that NVC has all the correct information. I hope that will be ok.
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2010-06-20 01:37:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedures2007 petition interviewing in 2010
Hello All,

In 2007 our I-130 petition was approved. It is now in 2010 that we will have an interview based on that petition. I constantly sent updates to uscis over the years, but even after the petition was sent to NVC all the updated information was missing such as my maiden name being changed.

My thinking is that the interviewer would be reasonable knowing that this petition was completed some time ago, that perhaps it needs updating. I sent in the DS-230, which has all the correct updated information (such as addresses).

One of the changes from our old petition was my husbands address, he's in another country. We sent and sent the updates but NVC initially put the wrong country/embassy in our case number. That took about a month to update at NVC since all changes must be updated via snail mail, received by NVC by hand.

This has been frustrating because we sent the updates repeatedly to uscis for years and it wasn't noted in our file. I filed a freedom of information act, so I have a copy of what they have. I know what is and is not correct. Any suggestion? They are minor changes, like my maiden name, and there is an incorrect date, I never saw our wedding date is backwards - but I think any reasonable person would look at that and see it was an honest mistake when seeing our original wedding certificate.

Any thoughts are appreciated. We paid AOS fees at the very end of March, here we are near the end of June and I want to prevent anymore errors before they cause another major wait time.

Thanks
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2010-06-19 21:24:00
Africa: Sub-SaharanTravel to Nigeria 3 times
QUOTE (MONIQ @ Sep 12 2009, 02:09 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I have travel 3 times within ONE year to see my now husband. Embassy in LAGOS, said they dont believe that our relationship is bonafide. They EVEN called me into the interview to ask me what kind of car he drives and even what time he leave for work everyday. They did not even look at the hundreds of dollars I spend every month on cell phone bills for the last 2 years. The smallest amount i ever paid was $250.00 USD. THEY DID NOT EVEN look at our evidence. We are now filing the I-130 and it was approved. i am not sure what will happen next. Can anyone offer any help please?


Hi Moniq,

I haven't been posting on the site for awhile. I've been seeing posts for Lagos and then read your post today and decided to post again. I too was completely appauled when just about the same thing that occurred to you happened with me and my husband. We were given a denial at the interview, our case being sent back to Homeland because of no bonafied relationship. I was just in awe that they couldn't see we were real and we'd been together for years. We made some mistakes, minor ones, but I thought they were human and would be dismissed.

Breath because many people who are denied do eventually in time get permission to live together. I know right now you just feel very hopeless and scared, and angry definitely at how much control one person can have over your life in just a few minutes.

Our evidence too was not even peaked at. That just fuels your anger and thought that it would be impossible for them not to see your relationship if they had bothered to look.

I don't know when this occurred - I would try to find out if your case has left Lagos. Now may be the time to get your Senator in your state involved, to get the case not to leave Lagos and reconsider another interview. If your case has left back for the US it will go to Vermont or California Service Center, unless procedure has changed in the last year and I'm unaware of it.

Your I-129 will expire, if not revalidated and it sits at a service center it is completely unuseable and the I-130 is the one to go ahead with. Some still have to combat the interview question on the I-130. You need to go over every minute detail of the interview with your Hubby and see if anything was misunderstood, or inaccurate compared to your approved petition. You will given the chance to submit evidence that proves your relationship is bonafied and any proof to prove their suspicion - whatever that is wrong.

I've heard senator's say that often if someone is denied it's to see if the couple will hold on through the rest of the process and keep on until the end. So hang in there!

I'm so sorry you're going through this. I thought it was a nightmare from which I would wake - there are many it occurs to, many who in the end are now together.

Take Care,


Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-09-13 03:42:00
Africa: Sub-SaharanLagos Interview Rescheduled...
QUOTE (jrcrzymum @ Sep 18 2009, 09:32 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I just recieved the STRANGEST email from our attorney this afternoon. You see, we finally got our interview date of October 27, our attorney emailed the consulate asking for a copy of the interview notification SUPPOSIDLY sent to my fiance. Their emailed response, quickly to our attorney, they never respond to me, stated that our interview was re-scheduled for October 27....Crazier yet is that I've been calling DOS and they have always maintained that no interview date has been scheduled. I saw the Lagos consulate email response to our attorney with my own eyes stating the reschedule.. Good news though, the emailed response stated that my fiance can show up with a copy of the email to his interview if he does not receive it by mail as they will not email a copy of the notification...I think this journey is seriously going to test my sanity.
Has anyone else experienced the consulate only responding to attorney inquiries and rescheduling appointment you never knew you had? blink.gif


Hi there - let me just say I have had just about all of the strangest things occur at the consulate. lol... stress, stress, stress - like you I felt it was going to test my sanity too. We never received our letter and package before our interview either. When I emailed the consulate it was not answered, the lawyer firm we had did knock on their door repeatedly.

However, my husband was given the email copy of the letter to take to the interview - just as you were saying occurred with your fiance, that did not initially go well - my husband wasn't allowed in even with his email, at the gate. So just be prepared I suppose. The man at the gate said no one gets those email names and didn't let my SO in.

Yes, the consulate didn't respond to us either - or the lawyers. Eventually a Washington liaison and the Senator were listened to.

I'm not surprised they rescheduled your interview - For example my husband had 2 weeks notice prior to his interview and the medical was late by 25 days but never actually appeared though we paid for it. I'm not sure what the deal is there, I sometimes wonder if because of the state of the country that its hard for them to get things done there.

You will make it through! October is very soon! You must have excitement and a stomach full of butterflies! Hang in there and wishing the best! Keep us posted.

Take Care,


Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-09-29 19:12:00
Africa: Sub-SaharanDealing with family drama
[quote name='jsand78' date='Mar 20 2009, 12:26 PM' post='2757572']


Well I would love to contribute to this post, because yes, I have experienced objections and wonderful support. Initially when I met and got involved with my SO the personalties of those I knew reacted in accord with their personality. Those who are naturally supportive were, those who are extreme were extreme and so on.

People always think they're right it seems, and many wish to butt in and meddle, that's why knowing yourself and who you are is so valuable.

I really truly relate to feeling the pain of others looking down upon you, judge motive of your love, and others always looking skeptically at your relationship. . . . relationships are already challenging, why should they add to the stress? . . . it doesn't seem to occur to them. In short, time is what altered peoples extreme reactions. Many thought it was amazing and awesome, many equally thought it was bizarre and confusing. I found I couldn't do a thing to help them see things differently, and time truly solved those problems. Some will always have bias based on their experiences long before you came along with your SO.

I have also seen a family member years ago marry a man who was gossiped about terribly by family, speculation still exists as to whether he's out for something - like 8 years later! I think our media guides people to believe that this is the place to be, in the US, and because of that you're naive and gullible and stupid. That feels so offensive, doesn't it?

But if you know it's not true you can let it flow off your back and remember that the greatest lesson is not usually one where you tell someone off. The moment for my family's foreign husband was his actions - his actions! Also the least you worry then the less attention you draw to their feelings. Don't let it take away your joy!

I will say it again, don't let it destroy your joy! you will not be in this place with your SO ever again - enjoy it! Don't let anyone take it from you! Share with supportive people who enjoy talking about it, or your energy will go to places that dry you up. I would limit information with those who will use it to hurt you.

It is natural to feel defensive for one you care for or love, but I can honestly say looking back on those who treated us poorly that in their minds they thought they were doing the right and loving thing. Not everyone may be so altruistic, some people may just have pain and jealousy in their heart seeing you happy. Either way doesn't change your relationship and what it is.

I know now looking back that people really did care and were worried, and that they cared for me enough to say something they knew would cause anger made me think that their heart was in the right place.

Now that my SO is aalace. the humiliations of the past seem so less important. I had people say horrible things about me, but they also were watching me and how i reacted. In time things will sooth, I'm sure. And if they don't then again you can't let them take your love from you, they're just people who put pants on one leg at a time. Be wise, discerning, and enjoy your relationship!

Cheers!
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-03-21 01:21:00
Africa: Sub-SaharanInterview denial - nearly 2 years out and nothing still
QUOTE (NigeriaorBust @ Dec 2 2009, 04:23 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
If they returned the 129F have you "repaired" whatever issues they had with the petition ? Have you visited again ? 'If you have gone all this time without another visit you are going to give more fuel to the consulate that your relationship isn't real. You are going o have to track down the I 130 to start with. When was your last service request. They tell you to wait months after each one but you should be right on it as soon as you hit the date from the last one. Are your parents going to be co-sponsors ?


Thanks for your reply. Well the I-129F, I am not sure if it's repaired as you say - tried to send in a rebuttal but it wasn't accepted. It was returned because we have not yet been invited to share our evidence which is fairly significant. Yes, I have visited again. I did find the I-130, they have claimed it's at the CA service center - sent to them a year after the interview. But the interview was for the I-129, the I-130 doesn't exist with NVC. The senator should be helpful, I kept thinking time and patience. There has been no service request. The last info given through politicians was a 12-24 month wait time. We're close to the completion of that. We have not had any word other then that.

I just don't know who else I would call or speak to. Perhaps all we can do is now be patient and continue waiting it out.
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-12-03 04:55:00
Africa: Sub-SaharanInterview denial - nearly 2 years out and nothing still
[quote name='study_up' date='Dec 2 2009, 06:32 PM' post='3536990']
this is a terrible story, but it seems to me you have ruled out all your options--getting a lawyer, moving. Have you contacted relevant politicians?


Thanks for your reply - we have a lawyer, I just don't know if I should switch because I don't know that this one has done badly - there just doesn't seem to have been anything to do in addition, our Senator's office have been involved since the first interview... they keep getting the same info - wait time. I am really trying to move, I could live maybe 2 months where my husband is - out of a whole year.
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-12-03 04:51:00
Africa: Sub-SaharanInterview denial - nearly 2 years out and nothing still
Hello All,

If you have any advice I'd appreciate it. I can't get another lawyer - I've screened a few and I have just had it and am out of money. As those who have read about me and my husband before you know that we had a I-129 2008 interview that was a nightmare, we were denied - review of our case suggested. That I-129 was expired prior to his interview and not revalidated and I received a letter about that a month or so ago.

That interview was nearly 2 years ago.

I requested a FOIA, have waited almost 3 months but am inching up the list.

I also got a referral number to have an inquiry made about our I-130 that never ever left CIS. That was about 8 months ago and no responce. Even after phone calls.

Got in the mail another letter last June stating our I-130 was sent to NVC. Three months later it was not reapproved and still at CIS.

The congress office got the same statements and we were told to wait - that Lagos held our other I-130 petition for a year and now needed to review that one. So that was about 9 months ago.

I got in writing from NVC that they never received our I-130. But CIS still claims they sent it and it was returned to them by NVC.

I've since gave up my home and saved money to visit my family and have worked to try to find a way to move - but it's just not possible.

Any suggestion? Who can I call, who can I write, what can I do? I can't just do nothing.




Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-12-02 05:33:00
Africa: Sub-SaharanRebuttal for Denial - what did you include in yours
QUOTE (taurean @ Dec 4 2009, 09:02 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
You might want to start a thread in the Waiver section. You may get more responses over there.


Thank You...I'll start looking for the waiver section.
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-12-04 19:18:00
Africa: Sub-SaharanRebuttal for Denial - what did you include in yours
I am curious if anyone here who was denied a visa for their fiance or spouse that have been reviewed in the US and had their case returned to the Consulate. If so I wondered what was involved in your rebuttal. I realize it's countering the reasons for the denial, were you given a letter about why you were denied? And did you include ongoing relationship evidence? I have someone who cares and knows our case in and out that will give our info and evidence for review. I just wondered how it was handled by different lawyers or families.

It has been nearly 2 years since our denial. We've been together about 5 years now.

Has anyone been reviewed and then reapproved and their case sent back to NVC and onto the consulate? What happened?

Any information from those who are denied and are years out from that - would appreciate. I love my husband and my family so much, I feel ill daily, I think it's affected my health. Last time we had to part at the airport I just felt torn and broken, I didn't know how to do that again. To do that once more in the future or repeatedly - I just feel weary. I would like to have my husband with my family here for special occasions. I know in my heart the truth will set us free, the evidence is all here - just waiting to find it's way to the desk of someone that will look at our case at immigration.
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-12-03 05:04:00
Africa: Sub-Saharanmore documentation
QUOTE (Lucky couple @ Dec 6 2009, 07:52 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello! I went for my interview in Lagos on the 4th december which is 2 days ago with my kids.
My fiance filled for me and my kids. two are my biological kids, and one is my orphaned neice i adopted. I had all the adoption documentation and I answered all the questions correctly.
How ever Kamorass clinic neglected to stamp my kids medical result.
I was asked to go and get the stamps, get the death certificates of my childs(adoted) late parents( specifically from Population census commisssion)
I was told to gather the documents, then email them telling them I had the documents, and them they would contact me and give me a new interview date.
I would like to know if anyone has had similar experience. after i get back to them(i already have on the same day!) how long might I wait before i can get another interview?
I have missed my fiance very very much and I would very much love to finally be with him.
Again how long would it take for a second interview?


Hi there LuckyCouple,

I have not had this experience before. However I know from being there - as you know nothing is fast in Nigeria! lol. If you have gathered the information they asked for - it seems you have done their request. If you already answered questions in the interview I'm not sure you would interview again. However at some point, if time continues a confirmation that they received the information or further instruction would be helpful.

Please, I am not experienced in this at all. I only know if it was me, that at some point, probably 2 weeks - if I had not heard anything, I would go back in or something.

Sorry I cannot answer your question to the point but I could see you miss your fiance much and I understand that one. So hang in there - sounds like you've really tried to fill all the requirements. I was overwhelmed with my information to provide but you have your children and one adoption too so that's more complicated. All the best! Wishing you a wonderful time when you're with your fiance.

Take care,
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-12-06 23:07:00
Africa: Sub-SaharanThank God My Hubby is Home
QUOTE (Jolex @ Nov 30 2009, 05:16 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I want to thank God and also all my VJ friends, our visa was granted and my betterhalf is home.... it was a stressful experience in Lagos but God helped us to sail through.... He said the interviewer asked questions about me and my family.... How many siblings I have and if they were married. The college I graduated from and He told the inteviewer I came with him to the interview but of course they didnt let me in. We thank God for His mercies, we need to start working on what's next in the process, all the best to everyone still waiting, it will come soon smile.gif


Congratulations! kicking.gif kicking.gif

How amazing to see your love come home. I cannot wait for that moment for us as well. Now you can enjoy your marriage and build your life together wherever you want. Did you describe your experience from Lagos somewhere on the site? I would love to hear the details. Take Care.
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-12-06 23:11:00
Africa: Sub-SaharanHate to be a bother
QUOTE (Cherish86 @ Dec 6 2009, 09:27 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
AHHHH you all are so wonderful!!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart! All the info and links helped us greatly!!


Hi Cherish86,

Congratulations on finding a marriage mate! Not easy to meet someone you love and the distance is challenging in a way others who have not experienced it will understand.

I can answer the question about co-sponsors. You do not have to live with your co-sponsors. Your co-sponsors must be willing to provide their 1099's or W2's, providing proof of their income. Also assets can be included, yours or your co-sponsors. Assets might include a vehicle, a house, etc.

When you file that I-129 for fiance, once approved you will have that 90 days to get married within. Or change your mind of course. However it's strictly important to be married legally married in those 90 days.

As I understood the process for the I-129 a few years ago, once you are married - your fiance has come as a non-immigrant, so you will change his status to immigrant. This will involve some fees, and biometrics (i.e. finger prints etc). So I do not believe your fiance could work immediately but it's not all that long, just can't tell you exactly how long it is.

Hope this is helpful. take care...
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-12-06 23:02:00
Africa: Sub-SaharanQuestion
QUOTE (effieb @ Dec 8 2009, 10:23 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi please help!
I just realized my fiance's passport does not have his middle name or inital listed at all as it reads on his birth certificate. His birth certificate offcourse bears his full name and the passport was issued without his middle name. Will this cause any problems at the embassy? We had decided may be has to get him a new passport. Please help, i am so confused as his interview is in Feb, 2010. His petition was approved with his full name.

If anyone has any insight about this, please help with your suggestion.


I do not have experience on this, but I too would say better safe than sorry. If you are worried this will give you peace of mind and it could be an issue at some point.

However, when he returns to get his passport updated with his full birth name I would see if it could be expedited and the fees involved. I don't know the processing times, some places take forever to issue a passport whereas others seem to do it within a day. I would make a full copy of this passport, front back, all pages even if they're empty. I would make sure he has that copy and you as well. Also he should save any receipts of payment and note from the place he goes to get his passport so if for some reason by the time of the interview he doesn't have the passport that it will be easily explained. He's not the first person to have misspelled, lost, or have any other number of problems with their passport.

Hope that helps!
Take Care,
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-12-08 20:40:00
Africa: Sub-Saharangot news, discouraged, another 6 month wait
Hi PrincessC,

What a relief to hear of someone with a similar experience. I sent you a personal message. Thank you very much!
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-12-16 06:04:00
Africa: Sub-Saharangot news, discouraged, another 6 month wait


Dear Matana74,

I love your pic by the way! Thank you for these words of encouragement. I too believe in leaving the problems in God's hands. My husband too relies on God and reminded me that he knows all things and we were married in his eyes. Thanks for grounding me, your words just really hit me. I can hear the positive loving energy you have, you really have a lot of positive strength. I too believe this process makes you stronger. It will be interesting to look back and see things differently.

lol Gotta go get some more cleaning products just in case something needs some fixing tonight. *smiling/a chuckle.

Thanks so much.
Afrilaskan QueenFemaleNigeria2009-12-09 21:27:00