ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
PhilippinesSt. Lukes Medical, Can you have friend go with you?
QUOTE (KansasDragon @ Aug 26 2007, 10:31 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Annie's is going to St. Lukes on Tuesday and Wednesday, and is wanting to know if anyone can go with her, and enter St. Lukes.

She is staying with a cousin in Manila, and would feel much more confident if someone could go with her.

I'm sure this has been asked many times before, but my searches are not finding an answer. (Maybe I'm just a bad searcher today.)

Thank you!






I dont think anybody can go with her. Why dont you try to call St. Luke's for that.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-08-26 22:04:00
PhilippinesProofs of genuine Relationship
QUOTE (island_princess @ Aug 28 2007, 01:00 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
After the Embassy interview, if we are approved, the proofs of relationship (cards,WU receipts,etc.) are returned to us at Window 37 or 38. My question...Will we be needing these documents during the AOS or any immigration process? Ours is quite heavy and I do not want to waste a kilo or two on documents.








You dont need those cards, letters and receipts anymore on your AOS application.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-08-28 04:52:00
PhilippinesFeasibility of our CFO plan
QUOTE (spidergirl @ Aug 28 2007, 04:48 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (JoanBill @ Aug 28 2007, 03:51 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Aloha kakou,

It looks as tho Joan will be leaving Manila on 9-19 at 10:50pm (Continental). Is this scenario possible without much stress -

Get a service ride from Olongapo/Subic to a Manila hotel near the CFO early on the 18th
Take the 2pm CFO
Stay overnight at the hotel
Pick up the sticker on the 19th - and still have plenty time to get to the airport



Aside from the feasibility question -

Will she get the sticker at the same place the seminar was held?
Any suggestions on a hotel in that area?
How can you be assured of reliable transportation in Manila?? At the minimum, she'll need a ride from the hotel to the airport.

Mahalo,
Bill and Joan




Yes she can get the Sticker at the same place where the seminar is. She can take the Taxi from the hotel to the Airport.


And oh, she can get the sticker after the seminar so she doesnt have to go back the next day.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-08-28 05:04:00
PhilippinesFeasibility of our CFO plan
QUOTE (JoanBill @ Aug 28 2007, 03:51 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Aloha kakou,

It looks as tho Joan will be leaving Manila on 9-19 at 10:50pm (Continental). Is this scenario possible without much stress -

Get a service ride from Olongapo/Subic to a Manila hotel near the CFO early on the 18th
Take the 2pm CFO
Stay overnight at the hotel
Pick up the sticker on the 19th - and still have plenty time to get to the airport



Aside from the feasibility question -

Will she get the sticker at the same place the seminar was held?
Any suggestions on a hotel in that area?
How can you be assured of reliable transportation in Manila?? At the minimum, she'll need a ride from the hotel to the airport.

Mahalo,
Bill and Joan




Yes she can get the Sticker at the same place where the seminar is. She can take the Taxi from the hotel to the Airport.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-08-28 04:48:00
PhilippinesWhat will I answer?
QUOTE (dj1206 @ Aug 28 2007, 12:23 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I'm about done filling out this DS 156 form. On #32 it asks, "Do you intend to work in the U.S?" I intend to work someday when I'm already eligible and have work permit. So would it be ok if I check yes and just put "No employer yet"? What dya think and what did you answer?







See VJ Example Forms above
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-08-28 21:51:00
PhilippinesDelbros delivery?
QUOTE (ken777 @ Aug 31 2007, 02:18 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
When Delbros delivers the visa is it dropped off or signed for? What happens if no one is home to receive it?







It will be returned to the US Embassy. Theres should be someone in there to receive it, Delbros will send you an email if when are they going to deliver your visa.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-08-31 03:38:00
PhilippinesGetting Paranoid
QUOTE (dj1206 @ Aug 27 2007, 02:00 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I'm getting paranoid. My fiance sent me a package containing the original and photocopies of documents that I will be needing for the interview. The package hasn't arrived yet. He sent it thru USPS and he asked to have it traced but he was told the reply would be in 23 days. #######?! My interview is on 09-10 and Im getting jittery not having the papers with me yet! I also want to review the documents...I'm gonna cry!












Try to call your local post office and check.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-08-27 23:38:00
PhilippinesWhat exactly is "Delbros"?

I keep seeing Delbros mentioned, and paying Delbros, but I have no idea what Delbros is...

I know about the St. Lukes fees, I know about paying the fees at the bank for the Embassy... but what is paying Delbros, and how much is it?

Seeing everyone talking about Delbros delivering, I'm guessing it is like the US Embassy's UPS, but not sure.

(Delbros = Delivery Brothers???, How's that for a wild guess...??)



Delbros fees depends on the place of delivery, you have to pay Delbros after the interview at the US Embassy they have a booth in there .
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-08-10 00:29:00
PhilippinesIn Paying DS157
QUOTE (alexandra8886 @ Aug 29 2007, 09:34 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I visited BPI-Megamall to pay for my DS157. I already have my $200 for the 2 forms (1 for me & the other one for my daughter. I really intend to keep this money for the DS payment. For us to save the exchange rate difference & the bank charges for the withdrawal.

I was shocked when the teller informed me that BPI only accepts peso payment for this DS157. I showed what’s written in packet 4. The teller explained to me that US Embassy doesn’t have dollar account in BPI.
That’s why, an applicant who has dollar bill will then be convert the money into pesos. Take note, the conversion will be lesser than the actual bank rate -which is quite big difference in the regular money changer.

So, what I did, I withdraw from my peso savings account, went bank to bank & pay P9,400 for two DS157.


For others whose planning to pay DSForms in US$, better do it in Citibank.





Yes thats true BPI didnt accept $ for payment of US Visa applications. What i did is i called them before i went there.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-08-30 22:12:00
PhilippinesCheapest Overseas Call to the Philippines
Hi guys, im using Owtel long distance to call my family in the Philippines, its really cheap, i can only spend $5 for a 25minutes call. Whats yours?
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-08-31 04:45:00
PhilippinesArrive how early to USEM interview?
QUOTE (Epiphany @ Sep 3 2007, 09:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (jj1028 @ Sep 3 2007, 06:00 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Epiphany @ Sep 4 2007, 08:44 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Our app. is at 7:30AM how early should we arrive? How long does the whole process take? Should I bring a snack and water?

Thanks...


6am is fine, as they let 730 people let in around 630.... or if u want to wait a lil longer, you can go earlier. Goodluck


Thanks

How long does it take once you get in?




You cant tell how long it would be because they are calling applicants at random.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-04 04:31:00
PhilippinesSmart phone, roaming in USA
QUOTE (TomMyra @ Sep 2 2007, 11:40 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My fiance is coming on Saturday. She wants to setup her phone for roaming, so she can text message her family. She will only bring the sim card.

Does she need to maintain a load every month? Will her SIM card work in the US?

I have cingular.




Philippine sim card wont work on american phones, so she should better bring her phone as well. Try to check first if Smart roaming is available in your place or let her check with Smart . I made a mistake with that, i brought along my phone with Smart roaming when i came here in Las Vegas and unfortunately Smart roaming is not available in Las Vegas mad.gif, that sucks!
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-03 03:42:00
PhilippinesNBI CLEARANCE - manila
QUOTE (jayzar @ Sep 5 2007, 03:03 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi everyone! i got a question...

I am now in the process of fillin'up DS230 form, and gathering the required documents to be submitted.. Nbi clearance seems to have to parts.. the upper part of the paper which is the original copy and the lower part which says personal copy..

Do i have to submit the whole document (original and personal) or cut it into half and keep the personal copy for me? Which one is really needed?

for those who submitted their DS230 and requirements already.. please advice or share your experience..

thanks a lot guys..
god bless!

jayzar





You will submit the original copy, the personal copy is for you to keep, you will need this next time if you need to renew your NBI clearance.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-06 23:58:00
PhilippinesEXIT FEE & TERMINAL FEE
QUOTE (Anthony Julie @ Sep 4 2007, 04:39 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
So I've read that the terminal fee costs Php750 and the exit fee costs P1620.

On my E-Ticket, there were two taxes included and that P1260 is one of them. My baby made the reservation in the USA but I paid and got the E-ticket here in PH. Do I still have to pay that exit fee at the airport?

Please help! Thank you.

Julie




No, you just need to pay the terminal fee.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-07 00:00:00
PhilippinesDS Forms
QUOTE (skyblue06 @ Sep 3 2007, 05:42 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Im filling up my DS form, I have lots of Qs here help me pls.......

1. the DS form that the embassy sent me is expired, is it ok to use or download online?

2. In DS156 the embassy sent me it has no barcode, will I fill up online instead?how to get the barcode if necessary?

3.On Q#8 it says: other surnames used(maiden, religious, professional, aliases)------- Im annulled, will I put my ex surname on here?

4. On Q#9: other first and middle name used--------will I put my maiden name here?

5.on Q#17 there is no space for annulled, what will I choose?

6. on Q#22 when do you intend to arrive in the US?---------we have no definite day yet cause we don't know if when will they issue my visa



thanks




You can fill up your DS156 Application online


This is from the USEmbassy is Manila site:

TRANSITION TO THE ELECTRONIC VISA APPLICATION FORM (EVAF)

Starting 01 November 2006, ALL nonimmigrant visa applicants must use the online Electronic Visa Application Form (EVAF) or DS-156 Form. The EVAF is free of charge, will speed up the processing of visas, and reduce waiting time. It is also easy to use because it is the same application form that is currently used, except it is online.

Handwritten or typed visa applications will no longer be accepted by the Nonimmigrant Visa Unit in Manila. If applicants do not have an EVAF on the day of their scheduled interview, they will have to reschedule their interview through the Call Center or through the VisaPoint™.

For more information on EVAF, please visit the Nonimmigrant Visa Applications Forms page http://evisaforms.state.gov/

After you fill it up you send it and they will send your file back and you can print it out.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-04 04:12:00
Philippinesadministrative review
QUOTE (hmmm... @ Sep 6 2007, 08:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi People... I like to know how long normally administrative review in nvc ?? Any idea??? Am starting to worry here coz my case got in nvc since Aug. 9 and until now they havent forward to my consulate here. And everytime i phoned the nvc , i got the same answer which is administrative review and they dont have specific time frame... i hope anyone could give me some ideas or anyone went thru this kind of experience with nvc, id like to hear comments, ideas or information regarding this issue will be big help for me ... Thanks and good bless









It looked like my case stayed at NVC only for 3 days after it was approved but when it arrived in Manila US Embassy it took 3 months for them to schedule me an interview appointment.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-07 04:51:00
Philippineswhere is the Manila Embassy K1 guide?
http://manila.usemba...v/wwwh3204.html
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-10 23:00:00
PhilippinesX-ray film needed at POE?
QUOTE (alulette @ Aug 27 2007, 04:42 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi, I'll be leaving on Wed. for the US on K1 visa. My POE would be O' Hare Int'l Airport. Would like to know if I still need to present my x-ray film at the Immigration counter or could I just include it in my check-in luggage? Honestly, it's such a hassle if I would have to carry it w/ me on the plane cause I'll also be carrying along my wedding gown.

Hope anyone who has experienced bringing his/her SLEC x-ray film, pls. help me.

Thanks and God bless you!








Put it in your check-in luggage thePOE only needs that sealed envelope from USEmbassy.

Have a Safe Trip
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-08-27 05:51:00
PhilippinesWedding Gown Cost
QUOTE (dj1206 @ Sep 12 2007, 02:26 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi. I don't know if this is the correct thread but I want to ask the Filipina women about their wedding gowns. How much did yours cost? I'm planning to have one made at my hometown by my mom's friend who's a famous designer for wedding gowns. She really makes beautiful gowns. My mom was told that her brand new gowns would cost at least 22,800 pesos and would be more depending on the design. We will be given discounts though but I'm still thinking. I want to be practical and at the same time have a gorgeous gown and I'm very choosy with clothes. I don't want to wear second-hands though.

Comments? Suggestions?






I got my gown from David's Bridal here in Las Vegas. I have thought of having my gown made there in Manila before leaving. I have talked to some designers and they cost me 30,000 pesos, the lowest cost i got is 18,000 pesos and they cant promise that they can finish the gown within a month so we scratch the idea. When i got here we attended a bridal show an got the list of bridal stores in the area. I found one at David's Bridal at $399 plus the length alteration of $125. So i got a gown with the same cost as if i had it made in the Philippines minus the hassle of transporting it.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-13 23:31:00
Philippinesgot my visa today....yessss!!!
QUOTE (babesprincess @ Sep 12 2007, 08:14 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
hi vjs!

i just received my visa this morning. we are very much happy.

i found my passport and the envelop which is opened at one end sealed in a plastic when the delivery man gave the package to me. when i tried opened it to get my passport, i found out that the envelop is not sealed with plastic. as what i read in here, that envelop with warnings that will only be opened at the port of entry by a US immigration, is partially opened in one end. but i thought that though its opened, its also sealed in a plastic so nobody can take a peek on the documents inside. but mine was not sealed in plastic. is this really how its gonna be? we can even take a little peek on the documents inside through the opened corner of the envelop. so these documents are just placed in an envelop and not sealed? i hope i got the right package. unsure.gif




Thats not a problem that envelope has normally a cut on one end, just dont open it. You got your visa though, Gongratulations!
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-15 00:30:00
PhilippinesPhone Stolen, but that is the number on Visa
QUOTE (KansasDragon @ Sep 16 2007, 09:21 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
What kind of problems is this going to cause for us? Ann's phone was stolen from her purse while she was on a bus in Manila, for her Embassy Interview.

All the paperwork shows her phone number, which she now does not have.

Is this going to cause a problem with Delbros delivering? Or with anything else?

How can I contact Delbros or the Embassy about this?






Im sorry to hear that, that happends all the time in Manila, i had my bracelet stolen when i was in the bus on my way home from work. Cellphones and jewelries are very hot in the eyes of the thieves. Im glad she's safe. Anyways, she might call Delbros and notify them that the number she gave them is no longer available and she might gave them a new number if there is one.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-17 00:25:00
PhilippinesMedical at St. Luke's
QUOTE (EricC @ Sep 17 2007, 07:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
What the price to get the medical required before the interview?







I paid $95, and i paid it on its Philippine Peso equivalent
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-17 22:09:00
PhilippinesQuestion about NBI...
"No Derogatory Record or report " or "no record on file" remarks on NBI Clearance means you're clean and clear, so no need to get an explanation letter.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-20 22:53:00
Philippinesincomplete address in G-325a--HELP!
QUOTE (Sheryl&Robert @ Sep 20 2007, 07:42 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (jasman0717 @ Sep 20 2007, 06:01 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
You should be ok as far as the embassy goes. I would be more concerned with delivering the visa and don't remember if Claudeth gave DELBROS a delivery address. Do you think the address you gave is deliverable?


hi jasman0717..

...first of all, thank you for the fast reply - i really appreciate it! good.gif .. that's the problem it's not deliverable the one i put in G-325A form.. with this situation ..can my fiance just write a letter of visa pick-up and give it to the CO especially im staying with him in the condo while we're waiting for the visa -- no one will receive my visa at home..

thanks!



as you were saying you will be staying with your fiance, why dont you give the address of your fiance's condo as your mailing address when you fill up the Delbros form. It doesnt matter if your home address is different from your mailing address. I put my working address as mailing address on Delbros form and they delivered my visa at work.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-20 23:51:00
Philippinesincomplete address in G-325a--HELP!
QUOTE (Sheryl&Robert @ Sep 20 2007, 04:56 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
hello guys...

I think I did something wrong with my address in the G-325A form ... I filled out my address and it is INCOMPLETE -- I just put there Blk. 4 lot 5 Vista St.________ _________ ________ and the CITY, PROVINCE and COUNTRY -- i failed to put the subdivision name and town as I just followed the form itself .. maybe that's why my packet 4 didn't reach my place coz USEM just refer my address to the G-325A form... but I know my fiance put my complete address in the I-129 form..

My interview will be on OCT. 4' 07..I'm really worried about this discrepancy with my documents.,...
Do you think it will be questioned or can I be put on AR?
do i have to do something for it now --an affidavit of discrepancy or something?

Anyone who have knowledge about this... please help me... helpsmilie.gif

Thanks in advance! good.gif

Good luck to everyone!!!!! biggrin.gif






Its not a problem, you'll be okay. Good luck!

Edited by spidergirl, 20 September 2007 - 11:44 PM.

spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-20 23:41:00
PhilippinesVisa question
QUOTE (Jim&Gemz @ Sep 20 2007, 05:51 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
When Eve is ready to go to CFO she will need to have her interview appointment letter since she does not have a visa yet. When my lady contacted them the person on the phone in the Cebu CFO office, he told her to bring her entire petition package, including photos. We knew this was BS so we're just going to wait until after she has a visa now, as SLEC has already taken her passport. If Eve does go before she has the visa they will only give her a certificate proving she attended. She will still have to go back to a CFO office and get the passport stamped after she has a visa in her hand. She just won't have to attend the class as she'll have a certificate to prove she has already completed it.







She should do the CFO after she got the Visa. I did mine one week before my Departure.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-23 23:56:00
PhilippinesSince Coming to America
QUOTE (CountryGirl @ Aug 26 2007, 09:57 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (spidergirl @ Aug 27 2007, 10:39 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (CountryGirl @ Aug 26 2007, 09:25 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello All ...

I arrived in the United States on my K-1 Visa on July 16th, my Husband's (Fiancee at the time's) 40th birthday.

Since I have arrived we have been very busy, Immunizations completed July 17, Married on July 18, SSN applied for on July 18, Vaccination Supplement by a Civil Surgeon July 19, AOS Filed for on July 27, etc. I have been practicing my driving skills and have become somewhat accustomed to the "Rules of the Road" here and hope to test for my drivers license next Saturday, September 1st.

Being so busy for the first week (my husband took off to be with us) we seldom had time to make dinner at home, this has been the only major culture shock that I have experienced so far .. I REALLY MISSED MY RICE !!!!! Now that everything has settled down, life is great.

The life I have lived here is much different than the one I had in the Philippines. I stayed home most of the time unless I HAD to do something. Donnie's kids are very talented and in demand musicians so we generally have at least two dances/shows to attend every week. I'm not complaining at all, actually it is nice to get out of the house. I have learned, however, that being on time is very much a priority for Donnie .. when I was in the Philippines it didn't matter much to me, but now it is of the utmost importance.

My husbands kids started school on August 15th and Ashley started school on August 17th, so the kids got to know Ashley and me on a full time basis for about a month and we really bonded; I finally feel like I have the family that I have always dreamed of.

Now that Donnie is working and the kids are back in school I feel so alone thru the day, but I try to keep myself busy with house work and such. I have always been such a scaredy cat when it comes to being alone, this and my fear of dogs are going to be real obstacles during the adjustment stage of my life here. (Donnie has a bloodhound .. BIG DOG .. he says all Bluegrass bands have to have one!) We live very far from the city, on a horse ranch with many acres of land (our yard is huge .. alot of mowing) and for the first time in many years I don't have a maid .. wahhhhhh.

Thanks for taking the time to read my BLOG .. hehe, I really just wanted to share with other Filipinas how much life really did change for me when I got to the U.S.

VisaJourney has been a great asset in my understanding of the entire visa process and I want to give a big thumbs up to everyone that helps out here. I seldom post to the forum, but I have spent alot of hours reading and reviewing the posts and to this point they haven't steered me wrong. Thanks everyone !!!!!! good.gif

Good luck to everyone out there ...

CountryGirl



Hi Countrygirl, we have the same thing in common and i guess also with everybody who came in with K-1 or K-3 Visa. I am stucked at home too for more than six months now. I already have my Greencard and SSN but im still working for my driver's license so i can get a job. I understand the loneliness and boredome but its just temporary, your right just keep ourselves busy. Oh, but i ddnt miss my rice, my husband made a grocery shopping before i came and he bought few bags of rice for me, im cooking filipino foods at home too such as beef caldereta, tocino (home made) and lumpia and my husband and our American friends love it. Try to find a filipino store around your place, as for the rice you can buy it in the grocery store anywhere.

God Bless


I only missed my rice for a week while we were so busy that there was no time to cook at home, my husband bought long grain rice but it wasn't what I wanted. I found that Wal-Mart carries Jasmine rice and now I am happy. I am cooking filipino food too, and most of the dishes have been well received but once in a while it isn't .. like the bagoong and dinuguan was very quickly dismissed. I have learned to make many american dishes and will keep making the filipino dishes that they like... but will make rice with every meal none the less.



I like that Jasmine rice too. My husband dosnt like bagoong, "it's icky " he said and also dinuguan and daing so im trying to get rid of that from our grocery list. When i cook Filipino dishes i let my husband approve it first because if he likes it other american will like it too. I have learned to cook american foods too, but most of the time im cooking filipino dishes because when i cook Filipino dishes it was more appreciated than my american dishes.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-08-26 22:25:00
PhilippinesSince Coming to America
QUOTE (CountryGirl @ Aug 26 2007, 09:25 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello All ...

I arrived in the United States on my K-1 Visa on July 16th, my Husband's (Fiancee at the time's) 40th birthday.

Since I have arrived we have been very busy, Immunizations completed July 17, Married on July 18, SSN applied for on July 18, Vaccination Supplement by a Civil Surgeon July 19, AOS Filed for on July 27, etc. I have been practicing my driving skills and have become somewhat accustomed to the "Rules of the Road" here and hope to test for my drivers license next Saturday, September 1st.

Being so busy for the first week (my husband took off to be with us) we seldom had time to make dinner at home, this has been the only major culture shock that I have experienced so far .. I REALLY MISSED MY RICE !!!!! Now that everything has settled down, life is great.

The life I have lived here is much different than the one I had in the Philippines. I stayed home most of the time unless I HAD to do something. Donnie's kids are very talented and in demand musicians so we generally have at least two dances/shows to attend every week. I'm not complaining at all, actually it is nice to get out of the house. I have learned, however, that being on time is very much a priority for Donnie .. when I was in the Philippines it didn't matter much to me, but now it is of the utmost importance.

My husbands kids started school on August 15th and Ashley started school on August 17th, so the kids got to know Ashley and me on a full time basis for about a month and we really bonded; I finally feel like I have the family that I have always dreamed of.

Now that Donnie is working and the kids are back in school I feel so alone thru the day, but I try to keep myself busy with house work and such. I have always been such a scaredy cat when it comes to being alone, this and my fear of dogs are going to be real obstacles during the adjustment stage of my life here. (Donnie has a bloodhound .. BIG DOG .. he says all Bluegrass bands have to have one!) We live very far from the city, on a horse ranch with many acres of land (our yard is huge .. alot of mowing) and for the first time in many years I don't have a maid .. wahhhhhh.

Thanks for taking the time to read my BLOG .. hehe, I really just wanted to share with other Filipinas how much life really did change for me when I got to the U.S.

VisaJourney has been a great asset in my understanding of the entire visa process and I want to give a big thumbs up to everyone that helps out here. I seldom post to the forum, but I have spent alot of hours reading and reviewing the posts and to this point they haven't steered me wrong. Thanks everyone !!!!!! good.gif

Good luck to everyone out there ...

CountryGirl



Hi Countrygirl, we have the same thing in common and i guess also with everybody who came in with K-1 or K-3 Visa. I am stucked at home too for more than six months now. I already have my Greencard and SSN but im still working for my driver's license so i can get a job. I understand the loneliness and boredome but its just temporary, your right just keep ourselves busy. Oh, but i ddnt miss my rice, my husband made a grocery shopping before i came and he bought few bags of rice for me, im cooking filipino foods at home too such as beef caldereta, tocino (home made) and lumpia and my husband and our American friends love it. Try to find a filipino store around your place, as for the rice you can buy it in the grocery store anywhere.

God Bless

Edited by spidergirl, 26 August 2007 - 09:44 PM.

spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-08-26 21:39:00
PhilippinesProbability of Family Members Getting Visa to Attend Wedding in the US
QUOTE (azbound @ Sep 13 2007, 07:07 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I just received my K1 visa yesterday. Our wedding is all set for December and I want a few members of my family from the Philippines attend our wedding in the US. My mom already has a 10yr multiple visitor's visa, so that's good. But my father has been denied 3 years ago, he's retired. Am having him reapply together with my sister and her daughter (my niece) who will be part of our wedding entourage. We've been preparing for a nice wedding and I would be very happy if the most of my family I can take to US will be granted visa to attend wedding.

Anyone who had experience having their family members from the Phils attend your wedding in the US? Did they easily get visa? I've been going in and out of the US for work and visits before and am hoping to be with my family on a very important day of my life.

Thanks!




Wow, that would be very nice if you can bring your family here in the US for your wedding. I knew how it feels to walk in the aisle without your family. When i got married here i only had my cousin with me, she walked me in the aisle with her husband but its still very sad because my real family wasnt there. I hope that your father and your sister can get a visa. Good luck and best wishes!
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-13 22:54:00
PhilippinesVaricella 2nd dose
QUOTE (dj1206 @ Sep 23 2007, 07:49 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi, I would need to have my 2nd dose varicella already but I don't know anyone here. Do you have any recommendations on where to have it? Can I just have it SLEC again and just pay? Do you also know how much it would cost (or estimate)? Thanks..








Go to Manila Doctors Hospital, they costs a little cheaper than other clinics. But i suggest that you grab a yellow book and make some calls to get the prices first.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-23 23:45:00
PhilippinesNBI Clearance
QUOTE (mamalovesdada @ Sep 25 2007, 08:18 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
i'm wondering if you get a renewal of your NBI clearance for travel purposes, do you have to do fingerprinting again? cause i just got mine without my prints... and at the bottom part, it says... "not valid without dry stamp and fingerprint"

I'm so confused. Please help meeeeeeeeee....











Its not a problem, just put your thumb mark on it. I experience that too, i just put my thumb mark on it. Your original thumb mark is already in their record.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-27 16:13:00
PhilippinesWhat NOT TO BRING to the USA
QUOTE (ronmay @ Sep 22 2007, 09:05 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (skyblue06 @ Sep 22 2007, 11:34 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (ronmay @ Sep 22 2007, 11:32 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
bringing liquids are fine!!! but of course not in your hand carry but needs to be check-in... i brought big lactacyd lol and a huge listerene too blush.gif ... you can put some make-up on your hand carry but no sharp thing for your fingers (those stuff to be use for manicure/pedicure)... good luck and hapy trip!!!


good thing you brought up about lactacyd lol, I wanna bring one too


you know what it lasted like 4 months i think lol... hate using other kind blush.gif





Yes, i tried other brand from here and it sucks, im glad i found Lactacyd in Filipino Store.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-22 23:40:00
PhilippinesWhat NOT TO BRING to the USA
QUOTE (jom @ Sep 22 2007, 02:56 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My question is directed to those who have passed the different POEs in the USA:

Definitely "liquids" are prohibited for carry on luggages, what about for luggages to be checked in , does this also apply?

I have been to many asian countries and liquids are okay inside the luggages to be checked in, but of course USA is quite strict about it because recently my Aunt wanted to send a bottled herbal medicine to the US from the Philippines via DHL but they wont accept it, the post office refused too.

I want to bring a liquid chinese medicine that I have been using for along time now for my allergies but not sure if it will be allowed even if I check it in. It is in a plactic bottle ( like shampoo)

Your input is highly appreciated.

Thank you,

Myla



You can carry liquid items on your check in baggage, just dont bring too much because the Customs will charge you for Duty fee.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-22 23:33:00
PhilippinesCebu Pacific
Send her the money and let her purchase the ticket.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-29 13:38:00
PhilippinesONLY in the PHILIPPINES...
QUOTE (ronmay @ Sep 27 2007, 05:02 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (jasman0717 @ Sep 27 2007, 07:58 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Claudeth reminded me that I need to take her up to L.A. to the Jollibee blink.gif


we were in reno last month and i wanted to go to vegas coz ive heard there's jollibee there too but he said it was far from reno, so i was out of luck lol





Yes, theres Jollibee here in Las Vegas, Chowking, and Red Ribbon too, they are in one building which is entirely Filipino, theres a bakery which you can buy pandesal and pan de coco (my favorite), a grocery store, PNB remittance center and other balikbayan services, its a one stop Filipino place. I love going there it feels like im back in Manila.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-09-27 19:19:00
PhilippinesDS-156 NONIMMIGRANT VISA APPLICATION
QUOTE (jerzboi @ Oct 1 2007, 12:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Question for those that have already completed this step. The Manila Embassy K1 Visa Guide SECTION 4 4.3 in the MODIFIED SAMPLE HERE of packet 4 says the DS-156 is enclosed, but then 2 paragraphs down it says you need to go to http://evisaforms.state.gov to complete the DS-156 which is it? fill out the form in the packet or the one online?

Thanks!





Yes it is included in packet 4, but if you fill out online it would be better because it will go directly to their system. It that case they already have your DS-156 before your interview date, it will make your interview faster.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-10-01 14:23:00
Philippinesmanila medical
Please see pages 6,7 & 8 of the attached file
Attached File  Packet.pdf   246.91KB   54 downloads
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-10-06 14:18:00
PhilippinesSCAMMERS OUTSIDE THE US EMBASSY MANILA
QUOTE (Jim&Gemz @ Oct 4 2007, 10:24 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
There are some people that hang outside the US Embassy Manila that are trying to scam unsuspecting and trusting individuals into buying 2.5" x 2.5" photos for your DS-156. They have some raggedy piece of paper that says the requirements changed in the last 2 weeks from 2.0" square to 2.5". There should be some way to let embassy officials know these people are out there perpetrating a lie so they can run them off.

Don't buy them, unless you screwed up and didn't get photos for your DS-156 before you arrive for your interview.

Good luck to everyone who's interview is coming up.






USEmbassy can't do anything about it because they are outside their property. It's the City of Manila's responsibility. Those people are already reprimanded by the City Government several times but they keep on coming back. You can see people like that anywhere in Manila.
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-10-05 21:19:00
PhilippinesPinoy Power!! manny does it again!
Im proud of him. He afterall proved that his political ambition didn't jeopardize his boxing career. good.gif dancin5hr.gif
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-10-07 15:08:00
PhilippinesNew Passport Procedures
I have renewed my passport before via phone, they sent a messenger to pick up my old passport and he also the one who deliver a new passport to me, I didn't make an appearance. But that was the old passport version and it didn't need a thumb mark. Looks like this new version is fine it will keep other people from tampering your passport if you lost it, but you still have to appear at DFA for thumb mark
spidergirlFemalePhilippines2007-10-08 16:25:00