ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
Some news that's slightly off topic...

My wife's mother went for her tourist visa interview on Monday ..... and was APPROVED!!! Que milagro!!

I doubt that it helped, but a month or so ago I sent a letter to the embassy on her behalf. In any case, we hope to have her visit here for the Christmas holidays. kicking.gif
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-08-05 19:50:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
Congrats Diana and Andres!!!! dancin5hr.gif
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-07-28 16:26:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
Congratulations, Diana and Andres!!!!!!!!!
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-07-17 19:42:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
QUOTE (Scott n Yenifer @ Jul 14 2008, 06:49 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
P.S. Have fun in Barranquilla and do shot of aguardiente for us!!! (but of course be careful)

Have a second shot for me (on a different day, of course....haha). That's the only stuff I ever got a buzz with where I didn't have a headache the next day. devil.gif
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-07-14 19:49:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
Ken,

Sorry to hear that this is how it's worked out, though it's probably not too surprising, given the amount of time that passed without her contacting you. And, I suspect like you already know, that this is for the best. If she is this unsure about you and about everything, it would only have been worse if she ended up coming here.

My friend, I strongly advise you to take things very slowly at this time. While Colombian women and culture are amazing, you need to keep in mind that the people there have the same basic strengths and weaknesses as people anywhere. Make sure you find the right PERSON and not concern yourself too much with where they're from.

Best wishes to you..... and to Onelis, for that matter. She missed out!

Charles
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-07-13 14:18:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
Andres and Diana.... You guys will do great!!! But, good luck anyway. happy.gif
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-07-09 09:42:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
QUOTE (WyoDusty @ Jul 7 2008, 07:28 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My wife has her medical appointment on Thursday and then the Interview is on the 15th. She has everything I believe, and the Embassy is supposed to have the rest. I just want to inquire with the group to ensure we haven’t forgotten anything.

My wife has her Baptismal Certificate and the letter from DAS. She will have her Medical Examination and Vaccinations prior to the Interview She also has her photographs and passport.

The Embassy should have the following according to the letter we received from the NVC:

OF-169 FORM NOT NEEDED
OF-230-I YES/DOCUMENT COMPLETE/REVIEWED
OF-230-II YES/DOCUMENT COMPLETE/REVIEWED
PASSPORT YES/DOCUMENT COMPLETE/REVIEWED
BIRTH CERTIFICATE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT RECEIVED
ADOPTION FORM NOT NEEDED
MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT RECEIVED
MARRIAGE TERMINATION ORIGINAL DOCUMENT RECEIVED
COURT RECORDS FORM NOT NEEDED
FINANCIAL EVIDENCE YES/DOCUMENT COMPLETE/REVIEWED
CUSTODY PAPERS FORM NOT NEEDED
MILITARY RECORDS FORM NOT NEEDED
COLOMBIA POLICE CERTIFICATE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT RECEIVED
IRS WAIVER FORM NOT NEEDED
PHOTOGRAPH YES/DOCUMENT COMPLETE/REVIEWED
PETITIONER MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE FORM NOT NEEDED
PETITIONER BIRTH CERTIFICATE FORM NOT NEEDED

Are we forgetting or missing anything? Should I send her copies of the Financial Papers (I-864 and Tax Documents)?

I'm not as familiar with the CR-1 route, but I would encourage you to get any essential Spanish documents translated to English. You shouldn't need them for the embassy, as I understand, but you will need them down the line in the US. Unless you know someone here that would translate them for free or for a free meal in the States, I'm sure it's a lot cheaper to get the translations in Colombia. I would also suggest (someone else please correct me) that you take along whatever copies you have of all those needed documents, even though the embassy says they already have what they need. It seems you'll never have enough copies of the same set of papers... laughing.gif

Best of luck to you!!
Charles
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-07-07 20:48:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
Best of luck, Ken. I hope it all goes well for both of you!
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-07-07 15:28:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
I've been "away" (computer problems again), so trying to catch up a bit....

Diana, don't assume anything is wrong. As Scott said, it likely just a formality. When we had our interview, we were given a green light - EXCEPT Lorena had to return the next day (same day I was flying back to the states) with her two sons, to prove she had two sons! Good thing she had brought them along to Bogota, as it's a 10 hour bus ride from her home town. So, it could just be something as simple as someone in the embassy forgot to cross a T or dot an I.

Bruce, as you go further through the process, you'll be well served to have any and all documents "certified" or notarized. My wife has never been asked for a baptismal certificate (though we have one), but every step along the way we've been asked for her notarized birth certificate. Same thing with a divorce decree - I'm not sure which would have more legal status as far as USCIS is concerned, but I would be sure to get a notarized copy. Remember that in Colombia a Notary has different and much greater powers than here, so their legal standing is considerably different.

Always make copies of the originals, keep the originals in a very safe place, and only send copies when asked for a document. You will need to bring the originals with you for the AOS interview, if you have one.

Best of luck to you both!
Charles
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-07-06 16:01:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
QUOTE (Mononoke28 @ Jun 30 2008, 11:21 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (bigley @ Jun 27 2008, 06:25 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hey guys I want to ask more questions to you all but can not seem to get an answer. My questions are two fold. My fiance and I have an interview July 29 in Bogota. first is she has two children do we pay for all three for the visa or just for my fiance since the children are under 16. Second probably more importante the ds-156 that the packet 4 says do not sign is that the ds-156K or the ds-156 that are brought to the bank to get the visa paid??? Seems I can not get answers to any questions lately. THanks for everyones helpl


Does anybody have any answers for Bruce? He's asked this question several times and I'm not very familiar with children and K2 visas.

Diana

The gentleman pmed me with the same question and I answered him as best I could, though his original question to me was a bit different. As I recall, the reason you don't sign the ds-156 is because it has to be signed at the bank, rather than ahead of time.

As for paying for the visas, the children are included under the wife's K-3 visa, so you're not applying for three separate visas. However, when it comes to paying fees for the various applications, documents, etc., you do pay separate fees for each one in most cases. The USCIS site has all the fee information associated with each individual form. The only other bit of advice is, if you call USCIS for help on fees and documents, don't assume that what the person is telling you is completely accurate. Why? Because I think some of those folks on the phone system are temps or not directly involved in any of the actual process. Your best bet is to go by what's printed on the USCIS website. Copy web pages and print them out. Then if things get strange down the line, you have written documentation as to why you did something a certain way.

Hope this helps.
Charles
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-06-30 12:13:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
QUOTE (Ken y Onelis @ Jun 29 2008, 01:59 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (metavisa @ Jun 28 2008, 07:32 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
For some reason these people have the power to make you nervous, thank God we were able to make it thru and I really hope you do the same! Good luck, I'm sorry I went "overboard" with this email…

MC


The more details the better. It makes me nervous that, "Couple after couple" were denied. That's scarry stuff. I can't think of a worse situation for these couples. crying.gif

Ken,
If it helps any, keep in mind that you don't see many Colombia Club members getting denied. Not that we're all the special, but, thanks to the great help, guidance, and support from the folks here, most of us are very well prepared when the interview comes. You'll do fine, too.
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-06-29 12:53:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
QUOTE (Ken y Onelis @ Jun 27 2008, 04:38 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Muchisimas Gracias, Amigo! Of course, this is a big help. I will make sure I keep this information in my file. Thanks again,

-Ken

You're quite welcome, Ken. My wife and the boys just got back to the states and used the letter, signed by the father and notarized locally, without any trouble from DAS in Bogota. I would make sure that the letter is not more than a few weeks (no more than a month) old when she uses it at the airport. The "newer" the better.

Charles
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-06-27 21:10:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
If she had thought of it, I'm sure she would have. But, my guess is that she was tired enough and mad enough that she didn't care who it was - as far as she was concerned it was the United States government that was treating her badly. I'm just glad it ended well.
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-06-26 21:33:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
For those with spouses traveling back to Colombia, be sure to have them take adequate ID with them for the return journey. Lorena and the boys arrived in Ft. Lauderdale last night about 11:30 pm. They didn't get to leave the airport until almost 2:30 am!!! Why? Because her plane tickets were purchased in her married name but her passport still has her maiden name. From what she tells me, they brought the three of them into a special area and began questioning her. Why were the names different? Did she have other ID? Why wasn't she travelling on her green card? etc., etc.

Evidently, the officer(s) would leave for a while to do some "checking" and then come back and ask more questions. Needless to say, she was not very happy about her treatment. In the end they were allowed to reenter the country, but I had had a nagging hunch that there would be some sort of glich. Her comment to me was that NOBODY would tolerate being treated that way entering Colombia! whistling.gif (But I guess that depends what they were bringing with them.... haha)

If there's any lesson in this, I guess it is to buy tickets in whatever name is in the passport and on the visa. Bring the other stuff, too, but don't risk getting singled out for "special treatment".

Charles
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-06-26 15:48:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
QUOTE (Ken y Onelis @ Jun 25 2008, 08:47 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Question: We're awaiting package #3. Can anyone tell me what is included, and what I need to tell Onelis that she will need? Also, she has a 5 yr. old son. Is there a standard form for the father to sign so the little boy can leave Colombia? Is there a link to this info?

Ken,
Here's a cleaned up copy of what we used. You just need to enter the correct names and document numbers, and enter them as if the father was writing the letter. He will also need to have this notarized. Your wife will need to present this letter to DAS at the airport, and she will need an updated letter each time she goes back to Colombia and then returns to the States. There is no such thing as a blanket letter that is good from now on - she will need a different one each time.

Hope this helps!

Bogotá, Junio 23 de 2008

PERMISO PARA SALIR DEL PAIS

XXXXX XXX XXXXX, mayor de edad, identificado con la cedula de ciudadanía numero 11’111.111 expedida en Bogotá, por medio del presente documento, concedo permiso a mis menores hijo XXXX XXXX XXXX identificada con Registro Civil No. 111111 de Bogotá y el Pasaporte No. RN 11111111, para que puede salir del país de American Airlines y entrar a los EE.UU. por (ciudad y estado aquí), en compañía de su madre XXXX XXX XXXX, identificada con la cedula de ciudadanía No. 11’111.111 de Bogotá. Este viaje se espera el 25 de junio de 2008, y este permiso y la autorización son efectivos de la fecha del viaje.

Cordialmente,

____________________________
XXXXX XXX XXXXX
CC 11’111.111 de Bogotá
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-06-25 21:45:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
QUOTE (Mononoke28 @ Jun 23 2008, 11:11 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I'm with Willie on this one Charles. There are so many things that will not allow her to study in Colombia that it's not even worth thinking about it. One, she will soon be a US resident and should not be out of the country for more than 12 months, in fact the POE officers will give her a hard time if she is out for more than 6. Two, she will have to get her license here in the States even if she has one from Colombia, in some cases she will need to take additional courses to do so. And three, she cannot do any of this without proper English. So the best thing would be for her to focus on that and then decide on what to do. Once she's ready she can make appointments at different colleges with counselors and see what they recommend.

Diana

I agree! The problem is not to convince me.....it's to convince HER! wink.gif

But you raise some very good specific points. I'll talk this over with her when she gets back from down south. Thanks for the support!!!
Charles
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-06-23 12:27:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
Congratulations, CG!!!!!!!!! See you soon on the AOS page. ;-)
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-06-20 18:01:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
QUOTE (maviwaro @ Jun 20 2008, 10:30 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hey buddy

I strongly recommend against that!
The credentials may transfer over. Its a matter of family unity and of course, travel costs in an uncertain market. Plus it MAY look strange for immigration purposes.

However, I do encourage you guys to think about gunning for it here... remember that nursing will ALWAYS be in demand and there are some places that give signing bonuses that wipe out nearly half of tuition debts. Some hospitals also have loan repayment programs. What I would do is try talking with people already in the profession.

Also, did you know you can apply for Federal Student Aid? This may qualify you for smaller-interest loans and some grants. Another creative idea is for employer-assisted tuition reimbursement. Try checking if there are university hospitals in your area where she could try for a job to defray the costs of her degree/certificate program... and that in the long run helps her with job prospects in the field upon graduation.

Mária is looking at a 1.5 year Masters degree in Human Resources Development at a public university here that would costs us a relatively low chunk of change compared to larger universities. Its food for thought that will have a big payoff since she already has a few endorsements on her BS in Psych degree from home.

Thanks, my friend. That was kind of my thinking, as well. Especially on the "family unity" aspect. I was able to do a little research last night on this and found that RNs are in high demand and that there are several hospitals that will even sponsor a nurse to come to the states. However, that is for an RN. LPNs are a different matter. Not only are they less in demand, though they do essentially the same work, but around here they are paid very poorly (under $15 per hour for the most part).

Lorena changes her mind frequently on this whole career thing, so she may do so again. whistling.gif But I sure appreciate the feedback and support.
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-06-20 11:00:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
Not sure where else to start looking for this information, so I'll ask here.

This is only remotely an immigration question, I guess, but bear with me. My lovely wife is interested in going to school to become a nurse here in the US. The problem (one of several, but the pertinent one here) is that even LPN schools here are fairly costly and that would be a year and a half to four years where she would not be making money.....only spending it on schooling. While I'm all in favor of her going to school to better herself and her earning power, that is simply not something we can afford right now.

Lorena proposed an alternative idea, though. Seems there are nursing schools in Colombia that, according to her friends, she could go to for free or nearly free, and have a nursing degree in under a year. Even assuming that is accurate information, my question is whether or not such a degree or license would even be valid or recognized in the US. Anyone have any ideas on this? Or know a place I can do some research? Any ideas would be welcome.

Charles
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-06-19 21:29:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
QUOTE (Ken y Onelis @ Jun 18 2008, 12:37 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I gotta situation to share. My fiancee's phone has been not in service for the past 2 weeks. No email, either. She is receiving paperwork from Bogota in the next week or two, so, coordinating things will be less than perfect. Her phone has been disconnected before - thanks to family money issues and sometimes phone lines getting knocked out. Any suggestions besides just dropping in on her and the familia??

Even if the bills are paid, phone service in Colombia can be an iffy thing (though cell phones seem to work most of the time). Mavi's right about the internet cafe idea. Unless things have changed drastically, the rates are incredibly low and the cafes are very common. The only trick is that you'll need to establish some predetermined times to get together online.

My wife is in Colombia right now. She went there unannounced. All the family was thrilled, of course, but her mom about had a coronary. wacko.gif Unannounced visits may be fine for Colombians going back for a visit, but I'd advise against it for a gringo. Always best to have a trusted friend or family member meet you at the airport, etc.

One of my trips to Colombia, my wife and her friend were late getting to the airport to pick me up. EVERYONE had pretty much cleared out from my flight, though there were lots of cabbies and "others" around willing to "help". I got lucky, though. There was a middle-aged, cleancut Colombiano in a suit - by his actions and manner either plain clothes airport security or police - who noticed me and saw I was still searching for wife. He didn't offer to take me anywhere (first clue he was okay) but he did offer to let me use his cell phone to call my wife. Just as I was putting in her phone number, she showed up. The moral of the story, if there is one, is that not everyone in Colombia is trying to "get you". good.gif BUT, just like being in any strange place, the safest assumption is that everyone IS trying to "get you", until they prove otherwise. headbonk.gif

Best of luck, Ken.
Charles
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-06-18 11:24:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
Posting to move us back up closer to the head of the line.

However..... Where is everybody??? I know nobody can afford a summer vacation. blink.gif
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-06-17 21:57:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
QUOTE (ColombianoGringo @ Jun 12 2008, 04:17 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Charles, Are your sure it is really necessary to have those chat transcripts and emails translated? The embassy appointment instructions specifically state "Translations are NOT required for documents written in Spanish or English." (caps in original) I don't see why they would want correspondence translated when they don't require it for official documents.



Diana, I guess I will print out some of the actual emails in addition to the lists just to be safe.



Thanks to both of you,
CG

Ah! Well, if that's what they say now, that's what I'd go with. Our interview was over a year ago and I know some things have changed in how they handle the process. Sorry if I gave out "out of date" information. It's really difficult to stay current with the things you're not in the middle of. blush.gif
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-06-12 16:21:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
QUOTE (waitman @ Jun 12 2008, 02:01 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
4. As it follows from above, I went to Bogota in the end. However, originally that was not my plan. I chickened out during the last week before the interview after reading several horror stories here on VJ forum, about South American girls being asked by CO's to come back a few months later with their man. I didn't want to take that chance so I went. As you can read above it was probably unnecessary-- I didn't feel that I played any role in that (yes, they asked me questions but it seemed like that was out of some sort of appreciation as I was one of very few Americans there). However, even though it was expensive, tiring (long flight/connection) and seemingly unnecessary I do not regret that I went one bit. First, we had a very good time together (even though I was there only for a couple of days!) and second I have a strong feeling that by being with my fiancee there I did the right thing, I was where I was really supposed to be that day...Please don't get me wrong here-- I'm not suggesting that American petitioners go or don't go for K-1 interviews, I'm only sharing my personal experience.

6. (Advice for untraveled Americans only). Please understand that Colombia isn't Kansas but a country with very serious problems, unthinkable even in the most unfortunate parts of the US. You'll probably be surprised how normal Northern/Western/Central Bogota (the parts where you'll probably spend all of your time) looks but don't be deceived-- it's an alien world for you where you are an obvious gringo for anyone within the line of vision. You can be short and dark and even remember some Spanish from your college years but it doesn't matter one bit as Colombians are extremely good and distinguishing even people who come from a different part of their own country, let alone abroad. So make sure your Colombian beneficiary literally babysits you while you're in Colombia, make sure they never let you out of sight, be like a scared little baby hanging on to Mom's hand and do one and only one thing: follow and listen to what you're told, leaving all of your pride several thousands miles North...I'm sure most of you understand the risks but I get the impression that some people think that a trip to Bogota is like a trip to New York. It's for those that this item is intended-- what I am saying is harsh but well intended.

First of all, congratulations on getting the visa!!

I agree with most everything you mention in your post. Our Consular Officer was civil, though I would not say overly friendly. But, since we were approved, his manners don't mean as much to me now. whistling.gif

If I may, I'd like to offer my advice regarding your items 4 and 6. I suspect you are right that there may often be no need for the American partner to go to the interview, but not in all cases. In my own case, for example, because there was a large age difference between my wife and I, I think it was probably an important acknowledgement of our relationship that I was there with her. Did it really make a difference in whether or not she got the visa? I'll never know for sure, but my strong feeling is that approval was much less likely without me there. I think each couple should consider the need for this very carefully, based on the facts as well as the "appearance" of their relationship.

As for the (relative) safety of Bogotá, there is no doubt that the typical gringo sticks out like a sore thumb. This is true anywhere in Colombia, though it is getting better as more and more tourists venture there. Possibly part of it is because most Americans they have seen in the past were from the US military. But, my personal experience in three visits to Colombia is similar to yours, except while leaving my Yankee pride and swagger at home, I would be careful to not allow myself to look like a cupcake, either. Stand straight, try to look self assured (even if you are not), trust your Colombian partner, and have fun.

Perhaps a better analogy for Bogotá is Detroit or LA. There are parts of town that are reasonably safe (take sensible precautions with your money and valuables) and there are some parts that you would be a fool to go into (like the south end of the city). However, don´t let caution spoil your trip there. There are lots of fun places to go and see, such as the Salt Cathedral and Monserrate for culture buffs. Don´t let the site of soldiers and police, in groups of two to six, carrying automatic weapons scare you out of having a good time. If you want to be scared, talk to local residents about what it was like in the city back when Pablo Escobar was bombing 100 public and government buildings. Colombia still has a ways to go, that is true, but it is nothing like it was. Those soldiers and police are a big part of the reason Bogotá is as safe as it is.

Charles
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-06-12 15:28:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionColombia Club
QUOTE (ColombianoGringo @ Jun 12 2008, 02:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Another question.

Many people have mentioned printing out emails and chat transcripts. We have literally hundreds of emails which would be a pain to print. Instead, could I simply print out lists of all the emails we sent? This would be like the standard Inbox list in Outlook showing Sender, Recipient, Date/Time, Subject and the first line of the body.

I've also got phone records and chat transcripts, travel receipts, airline boarding passes and at least 50 good pics. Does all this sound like enough?

Thanks,
CG

I printed out a handful of "representative" chat transcripts and a few emails for our interview, also. BUT, remember that if these are in Spanish, you would need a translated version, as well. If you don't have time to have that done for you, I wouldn't bother, because the translation cannot be by you or your significant other. We brought along a ton of evidence - photo album, aforementioned transcripts AND relatively expensive translations, all of the things you mentioned and more. In the end, they didn't ask to see anything. As some others have mentioned in here, sometimes it seems as if they made their decision ahead of time, perhaps based on the originally supplied applications (I-129 and/or I-130) since these often contain a good deal of the same information, if they've been prepared fully.

That said, I do think it is still a good idea to bring all that stuff anyway, and have it in hand JUST IN CASE!

One last thing, at the interview, I really think it helps your chances if you give all the appearances of being a couple: hold hands, talk together, don't act nervous or fidgety, etc. Of course, don't go overboard to put on a show. If your relationship is real, let that be the final piece of evidence they need. I have no way of knowing if this matters in the end, but you never know. There are some long wait times at the embassy and perhaps that time is used to scan the crowd for those that "just don't seem like a couple", if you know what I mean.

Best of luck to you, though it sounds like you have all the bases covered.
Charles
parkpapaMaleColombia2008-06-12 15:02:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionMarijuana...why did you say that?!?!?!?!?
awesome, we are in seam spot, do what you think is right! truth or lie up to to them not us :thumbs:

How many people have lied in the interview and been approved? How many people have told the truth and been denied? It is not up to any one here to decide what to do. It is up to the individule that is being interviewed. This is my "opinion". There are some things that if you tell the truth that will absolutley get you denied. Past, present, right or wrong. Tell a lie and get caught, no visa! It is up to the CO to decide. It is up to the person being interviewed that has to live with whatever they decide. My opinion and only my opinion..................do what you think is right.


RezaMaleIran2007-07-29 23:09:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionMarijuana...why did you say that?!?!?!?!?
You want to say the truth? Go ahead; say sure I did smoke pot 40 days ago! From drawing blood test it well not appears but... the consulate will put your ### on the grass if you say this! Period!

actualy we in america, we have the top sell marijuana in the world with high economey business ... the fact is in law they try to show that yea we care about drugs... act!



go ahead guys and say that in your interview who smoked pot in past 40 days and more! see who has the balls to say this!...

I am not a alchoholic or drug user if i were i wont say that! actully my fiancee she is not drug user as will.. so i am pertty much fine on my side.

I didn't advice anybody, I just post my opinion thats it! duh...


Reza, it seems you are having a language problem here.

You wrote: " in some type of circumstance. you don't need to say the true! he did worng, he shouldnt say that"

In English,

YOU DON"T NEED TO = ADVICE

HE SHOULDN'T SAY THAT = ADVICE.

If you want to give you opinion, you need to say "In my opinion . . . "

You should be more careful -- that's advice -- because your posts are in violation of the Terms of Service of Visa Journey.


Edited by Reza, 29 July 2007 - 10:39 PM.

RezaMaleIran2007-07-29 22:38:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionMarijuana...why did you say that?!?!?!?!?

in some type of circumstance. you don't need to say the true! he did worng, he shouldnt say that! buy any way , he well be fine, another test it well be good like the last one.. don't worry


Excuse me???
If it comes to Immigration I strongly advise to always stick with the truth. Now there are things you should only say when asked for and not volunteer to share, but that's entirely different than lying about something.
Reza, seriously, with your attitude, you set yourself up for some big trouble some day!!


I didn't coment on your post! my attitude is fine for my self and you keep your self behave last worning!


But I comment on your post and you giving bad advice to others. This isn't the first time you have done this. And with "your attitude" I mean the way you are thinking, I didn't mean you have an attitude per se.
And I didn't understand the last part of your reply.


I didn't advice anybody, I just post my opinion thats it! duh...
RezaMaleIran2007-07-27 18:21:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionMarijuana...why did you say that?!?!?!?!?

in some type of circumstance. you don't need to say the true! he did worng, he shouldnt say that! buy any way , he well be fine, another test it well be good like the last one.. don't worry


Excuse me???
If it comes to Immigration I strongly advise to always stick with the truth. Now there are things you should only say when asked for and not volunteer to share, but that's entirely different than lying about something.
Reza, seriously, with your attitude, you set yourself up for some big trouble some day!!


I didn't coment on your post! my attitude is fine for my self and you keep your self behave last worning!
RezaMaleIran2007-07-27 13:48:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionMarijuana...why did you say that?!?!?!?!?
in some type of circumstance. you don't need to say the true! he did worng, he shouldnt say that! buy any way , he well be fine, another test it well be good like the last one.. don't worry

Edited by Reza, 27 July 2007 - 01:35 PM.

RezaMaleIran2007-07-27 13:34:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionWe have our interview soon!!!
My Huge advise to you is Good Luck and keep cool and come down..
RezaMaleIran2007-08-19 19:20:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionApproved at emabassy interview :):):):):):)
CONGRATS...
RezaMaleIran2007-10-05 18:42:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionWife raped
Man I feel so sorry dude sad.gif
RezaMaleIran2007-10-01 22:43:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussionstuck In ankara for affidivate support!
QUOTE (motu @ Jun 23 2008, 10:31 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Do you have a specific question or are just frustrated? If you need a co-sponsor, ask your friends and family. They will need to be making enough money to cover their household plus your fiance and her kids (not you - you are not being sponsored). Good Luck


Thank you motu for reply already know those things...

Nutty (sheytoon) Thanks for your reply I have been adviced wrong ... so my family are working on it.. and I am stuck in this country...

QUOTE (Nutty @ Jun 23 2008, 06:48 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Dear Reza:

You make mistake on calculating the amount of money you need. You listed how much money is needed for a US military soldier to sponsor a child or spouse. A military person can sponsor with a lower income than a normal citizen.

You need to look at the part that says 125% of POVERTY LINE FOR ALL OTHER SPONSORS:

Here is the link to the CURRENT GUIDELINES:

http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/I-864P.pdf

2008 Federal Guidelines Income Guidelines for sponsorship:

125% minimum income for household of 4: $26,000.00 (the 48 states)
125% minimum income for household of 3: $22,000.00 (the 48 states)

The number of people in your household should be the number of people you claim on your TAXES (exemptions/dependants). So is your stepfather an dependent on your 1040???? Did you list your mother on your taxes as a dependent?

Best of luck with Embassy staff.


QUOTE (Reza @ Jun 23 2008, 02:51 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
hello Guys

I am ankara with my Fiance, for more then 26 days and couting...

just waiting for some one to cover my income due to my shortage on my income on 2007 because of university and sickness. I add my stepfather, its short $1000 for 4 family member.

Sponsor's household size 100% of poverty line 125% of poverty line

For the 48 Contiguous States, the District of Columbia,
Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam

2 $10,850 $13,562
3 13,650 17,062
4 16,450 20,562
5 19,250 24,062
6 22,050 27,562
7 24,850 31,062
8 27,650 34,562

Add $2,800 for each additional person. Add $3,500 for each additional person.

_________________________________________________________

OR

* You may add the cash value of your assets such as money in savings accounts, stocks, bonds, and property. To determine the amount of assets required to qualify, subtract your household income from the minimum income requirement (125 percent of the poverty level for your family size). You must prove the cash value of your assets is worth five times this difference (the amount left over).

Example for a household size of 4:

125 percent of 2006 poverty guideline

$25,000 sponsor's income
$19,500 Difference
$5,500 Multiply by 5
x 5

Minimum Required Cash Value of Assets
$27,500

the funny thing is they mail me with DHL ( do not ever mail with DHL it take us 7 days to get the mail) with form i-864 but the consulate didn't accept it, she need a i-134 cosponsor.

another stupid thing is, they didn't look over the case while my fiance mail to the consulate, for interview date. they didn't look at the file correctly to see what is missing... so if there was something are missing they should told us, bering sufficint income ... at the interview or .. whatever bring all orginal documents.. which is they didn't done that.

I am so disappointed of Consulate in ankara, I am so frustrated bein here for 26 days spending money on hotel and ... ect, no one speking or understanding english, while you do't know there language(turkish) they know how to rube you and cheat and take the money away from you , which is happening for us in here, no fun city at all. durt and mad and trash is all over the place.

I just don't know what to do and where to go.. .. wacko.gif


RezaMaleIran2008-06-24 01:51:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussionstuck In ankara for affidivate support!
hello Guys

I am ankara with my Fiance, for more then 26 days and couting...

just waiting for some one to cover my income due to my shortage on my income on 2007 because of university and sickness. I add my stepfather, its short $1000 for 4 family member.

Sponsor's household size 100% of poverty line 125% of poverty line

For the 48 Contiguous States, the District of Columbia,
Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam

2 $10,850 $13,562
3 13,650 17,062
4 16,450 20,562
5 19,250 24,062
6 22,050 27,562
7 24,850 31,062
8 27,650 34,562

Add $2,800 for each additional person. Add $3,500 for each additional person.

_________________________________________________________

OR

* You may add the cash value of your assets such as money in savings accounts, stocks, bonds, and property. To determine the amount of assets required to qualify, subtract your household income from the minimum income requirement (125 percent of the poverty level for your family size). You must prove the cash value of your assets is worth five times this difference (the amount left over).

Example for a household size of 4:

125 percent of 2006 poverty guideline

$25,000 sponsor's income
$19,500 Difference
$5,500 Multiply by 5
x 5

Minimum Required Cash Value of Assets
$27,500

the funny thing is they mail me with DHL ( do not ever mail with DHL it take us 7 days to get the mail) with form i-864 but the consulate didn't accept it, she need a i-134 cosponsor.

another stupid thing is, they didn't look over the case while my fiance mail to the consulate, for interview date. they didn't look at the file correctly to see what is missing... so if there was something are missing they should told us, bering sufficint income ... at the interview or .. whatever bring all orginal documents.. which is they didn't done that.

I am so disappointed of Consulate in ankara, I am so frustrated bein here for 26 days spending money on hotel and ... ect, no one speking or understanding english, while you do't know there language(turkish) they know how to rube you and cheat and take the money away from you , which is happening for us in here, no fun city at all. durt and mad and trash is all over the place.

I just don't know what to do and where to go.. .. wacko.gif
RezaMaleIran2008-06-23 02:51:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
In light of all the AR's being recieved lately, perhaps someone should post a list of things to make sure you do in case a person recieves an AR. What i think would be helpful is a list of questions.

1) AM i on administrative review?
2) may i ask why?
3) is there anything i can do to correct it right away?

does anyone have any suggestions. I am asking so others can be prepared in case they are given a white sheet of paper, or is it pink, or whatever color. I just have trouble believe that people are put on AR without even realizing it until they are already done with the interview. SHould a fiancee be forceful and demand to know the cause of the AR and what she can do about it? As i said any ideas or suggestions would be good. Perhaps those put on AR can tell us all what was said to them at interview.

thanks all.


PS - Good to have you back PW, sorry you are not yet planing your flight to be with your loved one yet.
ryecatcher25Not TellingPhilippines2006-03-07 01:40:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

I was talking to my friend whose fiance is getting medical on 17th of March. He had a really hard time getting to the embassy and when he finally had a conversation today , they told him they 'would not'[b] accept form 1040 tax return for 2005 until July?

I just want to ask anybody if this can be confirmed or denied?

To me this does not make sense? Seems like they would want the current and most recent tax return?

If this is true I will have to redo my affidavit of support and put in the income from my 2004 tax return.

Thanks Robert & Lorna



This doesn't sound right. maybe it means that the 2005 returns are not absolutely required until july. before july it would be optional.

But you realize you need the 3 most recent tax returns, so if you have already done 2005, then you also need 2004 and 2003. but i guess that until july maybe you could get away with 2004, 2003, and 2002
ryecatcher25Not TellingPhilippines2006-03-01 02:44:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

the call center in manila is a complete joke and a waste of 18 dollars :angry: i just called up to find out why after 18 faxs they still cant update yove's address. not only are they clueless as to why. they didnt even know that her interview was april 18th , and were amazed that i could get that information without goin through them. (you can call the state dept There number is 202 663 1225 press1 then 0 then 0. )



Yes the call center is a complete joke. What a waste of 18 dollars. I really feel so stupid for having spent it believing that i could get real answers from it. But i guess if you really have no idea what to do then their basic information may help.
ryecatcher25Not TellingPhilippines2006-02-28 00:37:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Hi everybody,
I'm a little late to the discussion but I just wanted to chime in and give all that are waiting a little encouragement. We finally received notice of our K-1 interview date (Mar 22, 2006). There's no less than fifty-eight K-1 and K-3 interviews scheduled for that day. She never received a packet 3 and I'm still not sure what's supposed to be in that. The letter in the packet 4 was dated Jan 26 but it took about 3 weeks for my fiancee Dez to receive it. I kind of wish I had done more research on the requirements for the interview but I didn't think the interview was going to come this soon. I've been pretty stressed out and in the dark this whole time and we have a little 7 month old baby and her first son to take care of too so I've been worried almost to the point of insanity everyday. Thank goodness baby already has US citizenship and an SSN. His passport has his 1 month old baby picture it, how cute. :D

Just a word of advice: get your required documents as soon as possible, don't wait. Dez worked for 2 years in UAE which is where we met. She needs to get a police certificate from UAE but the information on how to do this is scarce. The UAE embassy doesn't readily facilitate obtaining police certificates from outside of the country, but I've read that this is possible. So now I'm paying to send her back to Abu Dhabi to get one in person. As you might guess, it's not easy for Filipinos to get tourist visas to UAE! On top of that her father sadly passed away last week and I'm sending her home for the funeral. So she's got to fly home, then fly to UAE, make it back for the medical and the embassy interview, all in less than one month. And there's no guarantee that the AD police can provide this certificate in the time she will be there. If you think you've got problems, just remember me, and stay on the path you've chosen.

Good luck and cheers!

JL



I am glad (i mean sorry) that someone else is experience difficulty with apolice certificate because it has been a little hard to figure it out. but you DO NOT NEED to send your fiance to UAE. You see my fiancee worked in Kuwait for 4 years and much like your fianccee she must be physically present to obtain a police certificate. In fact according to the DSL-1083 form which is in the packet noth UAE and Kuwait are on the list of "must be present to obtain police certificate" here is a pasting of the full list:

Do not attempt to obtain police certificates covering residence in any of the following countries as they are not available:

Afghanistan* Iran* Saudi Arabia*
Angola* Iraq* Sierra Leone
Azerbaijan* Jordan Somalia*
Bangladesh* Kazakhstan Sri Lanka
Bulgaria* Laos* Sudan
Cambodia* Liberia Syria*
Chad* Libya Tajikistan
Colombia* Malaysia* Tanzania
Costa Rica* Mexico Thailand*
Equatorial Guinea* Moldova Turkey*
Ghana Mongolia United States of America
Guatemala* Nepal* Uzbekistan*
Haiti* Nicaragua* Venezuela*
Honduras* North Korea Vietnam
Indonesia Pakistan*

Police Certificates from the following countries are only available to people physically present in the country who apply in person:

Belarus Kuwait* United Arab Emirates
Brazil Paraguay Ukraine
Chile Lebanon* Yemen
Comores Rwanda*
Ethiopia Suriname

In fact for the reciprocity list at http://travel.state....ocity/index.htm says that a person must be a resiedent of kuwait to apply for a police certificate, which would be immposible for my fiancee to get. But anyway you and I are in the same boat. I called the NVC and asked them about it , in fact i called twice and both people told me that the embassy should take the fact that they must be physically present into consideration. Of course i realize this is manila so perhaps commonsense wouldn't prevail. I have emailed them a couple fo times but with no response and have called their call center twice for various things but have also asked them about this situation. They said that they did understand what i am saying and that the embassy would understand that but that they couldn't speak for the embassy official.

OK so far i am knocking myhself out just to get an answer to wheither or not i can stop worrying about this stupid police certificate. The vitual embassy in Davoa hosted a chat session and after asking the question for an hour i finally got an answer fromt he embassy. here it is:

Administrator - kansas_city_usc - if my philippines fiance worked in a foreign country for over 6 months, but cannot get a police certificate from there because it is on the list of places where "a person must be physically present to recieve police certificate" then will the manila embassy still require that police certificate, even thought it is impossible for her to get?

Consulate - Kansas City – Police clearances are not required from countries from which they are not available. Information on individual countries is available from travel.state.gov/visa/reciprocity/index.htm

also they haven't put up the chat archive for that date yet (it was feb 8th this year) but it should be up soon and at this site, thay said they are usually posted 3 weeks afterwards. but of course i copied the session

http://www.usvirtual...at_archives.asp

I think that is pretty clear that a police certificate won't be neccessary for us, but i am going to write the kuwait embassy and ask them if they would send me a letter stating that my fiancee simply cannot get a police certificate from their country. But i think once the chat archive is posted that you can jsut print out he chat log and give it and the website to your fiance if the officer asks for a police certificate from UAE.

But really i think we should work together to put this question to rest once and for all. perhaps we can try to get through to the embassy on the phone or email them enough until we get a response, because i don't want to worry about this at all. Right now my worry level is at about 1 percent, very low, but i don't want even that 1 percent.

Let me know and we can hopefully figure something out so we don't have to worry , and you don't have to pay for an uneccessary flight, if she can even get out of the country to start with.
ryecatcher25Not TellingPhilippines2006-02-24 23:37:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
wow that is a very good link. thanks for posting it.
ryecatcher25Not TellingPhilippines2006-02-18 23:14:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
seems like manila is getting a little quicker. from what people have been posting, looks like it has gone down from a 6 month wait to 5 months.
ryecatcher25Not TellingPhilippines2006-02-17 01:08:00