ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
Iniibig ko si Luz forever (GaryC)

Q. What happens if her bank will not validate her form?

A. They will give you a blank form that is validated on the back. You may simply keep your completed DS-157 form and bring the blank validated form. (make copies of both for your submission to the USE)

Q. DS-157 form for her and another one for her son?

A. Yes there should be a validated DS-157 form for each visa applicant. (make copies for the USE)

Cheers!!!

Sheriff Uling
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-02-06 14:01:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
Garya505

Q. Did they ask for the pay stubs?

A. Actually, I don't believe they do. I just followed the back-up instructions from the I-864 (Affidavit of Support) used for the Adjustment of Status (AOS) part of the process because the I-134 does not give a definitive answer for my taste. LOL!

Q. How many pictures do they want?

A. There are no set number of pictures that are required. Just bring the ones that make you look good. LOL! Take the ones that you like fo the both of you.

Sheriff Uling

p.s. - It's always better to have more than less...

Edited by Sheriff Uling, 06 February 2007 - 01:55 PM.

Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-02-06 13:55:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
GaryC & LucyC

The DS-157 (Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application) is the form the bank validates when you pay the visa application fee. In some cases, the bank will not valdate your completed DS-157 form. It is adviced that you contact the bank beforehand to inquire if they will validate the back of your completed DS-157 form. The bank will also give the beneficiary a pink 4x5 receipt. Unfortunately the USE was careless with this oversight in the Packet 4 information, which is why someone requested that I correct it and post our own Packet 4 here on VJ (if you click on the one in my signature you will not see this error). Most lawyers will not be aware of this error, which is why this forum is so great. As a collective body, we know more than the professionals via experience and research.

Cheers!!!

Sheriff Uling
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-02-06 13:16:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
Phil-Am Families...

If you are self employed (petitioner), then it is definitely in your best interest to submit bank statements to substantiate your ability to support your future queens. For those who are employees with an income over 125% of the poverty level, bank statements are not required.

Thanks guys...

Sheriff Uling

if your self employed like i am you have to have bank statements plus a letter from the bank showing your in good standing and if you file your taxes monthly and or quartely that will help also.


I am self-employed also. I furnished my wife with 12 months bank statements (personal and business accounts). 2005 Tax returns, letter from banks, copy of business license, professional license and copy of articles of incorporation. It might have been a bit of an overkill, but the interviewer took everything she brought with her.


Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-02-06 11:53:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Hey can you check out my interview checklist. This is what we will have with us.

Interview Appointment Letter original and 1 copy.
Valid photo ID (NBI badge) and 1 copy.
Passport copy (St. Luke’s took the original during the medical and sent to the Embassy).
Original NSO Birth Certificate, original and 1 copy.
CENOMAR original and 1 copy.
NBI Clearance with "For US Travel" or "For Travel Abroad" stamp and thumbprint, original and 1 copy.
Passport-sized photos (2 in addition to those on the DS-156 forms).
VISA Application Forms
- DS-156 (2 completed and signed forms with photos glued on, and 1 copy).
- DS-156K (2 completed and signed forms, and 1 copy). DO NOT SIGN BEFORE INTERVIEW!
- DS-157 (2 completed and signed form – 1 must be stamped with BPI payment, and 1 copy).
- DS-230, part 1 (2 completed and signed forms, and 1 copy).
I-134F Affidavit of Support form (notarized), 2 originals with copies.
Supporting documentation for I-134F (affidavit of support folder)
- Fiancé employment letter (2 originals with copies).
- Fiancé last 3 years income tax forms (copies of 1040 form).
- Copies of last 3 years W-2 forms.
- Bank statements for last 3 months. (NOT REQUIRED)
- SIX (6) MONTHS OF PAYSTUBS (MISSING)
- Bank letter showing date account opened, deposits for last year and current balance.
USCIS I-797C Notice of Approval original and 1 copy.
NVC letter original and 1 copy (this will show spelling error too).
New letter of intent from each of me, signed and dated.
Copy of original I-129F packet with original receipts, etc.
Evidence of ongoing relationship
- Pictures
- Snail mail cards and letters
- Chat logs
- Emails
- Phone records
- Engagement ring receipt
- Receipts and ticket stubs from second trip in October
- Records of Western Union and XOOM money transfers.

Did I leave anything out ??????????????????? :hehe:

Gary505:

1. You are not required to submit any bank statements.
2. However, we did submit six (6) months of paystubs for which you are missing from your list.
3. Please be sure that your pictures are not copies. The USE only accept original pictures. For example, my wife and I made copies of our online photo album on paper for which the USE did not accept. Lucking we also brought our photo album that was accepted and reviewed by the CO and returned subsequent to the interview.
4. I also noticed that you stated the NVC letter has a typo. Did the USE mis-spell your fiancee's name on any of the corespondence with your fiancee? If so, please have your fiancee address that with the CO, and/or call the USE at your earliest convenience to ensure that error is not translated onto the Visa. If this is the case, it's imperative that your fiancee's name on the Visa is correct. Traveling with a misprint on a Visa will endeed cause you unnecessary heartache that you will not need.

Hope this helps...

Cheers!!!

Sheriff Uling

p.s. - The USE will take one complete copy of your I-134 Affidavit of Support and back-up because only one is required per visa applicant, but do take both copies.
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-02-06 07:19:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Thanks PW. You're an expert in my book. :yes: Who else here is going through the whole process for the 2nd time? :lol: Argghhh. :huh:

PW has gone through the ultimate OJT (on the job training)... It seems like such a shame, but I'm sure their relationship will be much stronger because of it... Thanks a bunch PW. You are the best!!!
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-02-05 21:48:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

My fiancee's medical is coming up this friday. I printed her a post regarding what to bring with her for the medical. On this list, were 3 passport pictures. We wonder if there is a difference between the passport pictures and visa pictures that we submitted with her K1 petition. Is the specifications for the passport pictures are the ones that came with the packet 4 documents? i recall while i was in PI that there were instructions on the photos. Aloha for your responses.


Hai there!

when i went to my medical at st lukes i brought 3 passport pictures of me but thats not what they need(glad i have 4 2x2 pictures on my wallet,tell ur fiancee to bring 3 2x2 pictures not passport size or visa size picture,goodluck!

Per the Packet 4 passport photo instructions on page 8, the dimensions of the passport photos specificly required/request 2x2 size prints. If the beneficiary's passport photos are not to specifications, SLEC will request that the beneficiary goes to the local photo shot to acquire them.

Sherriff Uling

Edited by Sheriff Uling, 05 February 2007 - 04:36 AM.

Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-02-05 04:35:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

So the supervisor is reviewing it while you are waiting for them to call your number?

I would speculate that you are absolutely correct, and, at the least, the supervisor signs off on the COs recommendation of each case. However, the COs know whether they are going to recommend that the beneficiary's case is going to be approved, goes on AR, or flat out denied during the interview process. It would be nice for them to at least inform the beneficiaries at the conclusion of the interview of their recommendation. I pressume there are some cases, far and few between, that the supervisions may override the CO's recommendation. However, this is all speculation on my part.
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-02-01 15:35:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Can someone explain why the Consulate upon completion of the interview will not come out and say, "Your Visa is approved?" :unsure: ...

Two words.... Plausible Deniability!

Personally, I suspect they don't want the grief associated with every AR or denial. It would further slow their bureaucratic process and be "unpleasant".

Very true! COs would, more than likely, have spend extra time trying to explain why the beneficiary was placed on AR or denied (especially if the sponsor is there), which would slow down the process.

Can someone explain why the Consulate upon completion of the interview will not come out and say, "Your Visa is approved?" :unsure: ...

Two words.... Plausible Deniability!

Heh Sheriff, is that the same as saying CYA!! :lol:

Absolutely... That's why the COs always end the interview with, "Thank you now please wait in the lobby for your number to be called." Approved, AR, or Denied... Who knows!!!! In other works.... CYA!!! NEXT!!!

Edited by Sheriff Uling, 01 February 2007 - 03:18 PM.

Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-02-01 15:17:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Can someone explain why the Consulate upon completion of the interview will not come out and say, "Your Visa is approved?" :unsure: ...

Two words.... Plausible Deniability!
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-02-01 13:35:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

yahoo! The Delbros website updated and says that the Visa was released by the US Embassy to Delbros at 10:18am. It was sent to the distribution center at 6:15pm for delivery. I just hope and pray that she receives it Thursday. We hope that she gets it Thursday, as she will fly from Cagayan de Oro Friday morning to get the CFO sticker, then to the USA on Saturday. We haven't bought tickets yet, but I can get them in a flash on NWA.com. I haven't seen her since August 30, 2006. Even though I went to the Philippines to see her 4 times last year. Finally the waiting is almost over! I wish to thank all of you that have been so supportive, helpful and considerate. The VJ group (Manila Embassy Interview Group) is a very fine group of people.

Special thanks to:
Gary505
Chairlady PW
President/Sheriff Uling
Roycm

I wish everyone at VJ a very happy and prosperous life together. God bless you all!

We wish you the very best as well. Not to boast, but the best people are here in the Manila Embassy Thread. You are all indeed a wonderful group of people. It is my pleasure to be associated with all of you. May your lives be filled with joy, love, prosperity, peace, and grace.
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-30 15:14:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
Hey, I was wondering if anyone else noticed that PW is holding out on the pics. :rolleyes: She'll post on as a personal pic and a avatar every six months. That's movie star status. :star: I'm also betting that PW does not do grant interviews either. :reading: It must be nice to be a mega star. LOL! May I have your autograph? :P
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-30 04:25:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
Thanks for the kind word of appreciation.

PW is awesome. Through her experiences and tireless efforts, she has really made this thread a viable, fun, and friendly learning experience in which I consider her to be a dear friend. We, meaning every last one of us, have all worked together through the various complexities of our cases to really build a knowledge base to help others. For me, that's what it's all about, making easier for the next person who walks in our shoes. You have all made this experience one that I will never forget and you have all forged a special place in the fiber of my soul. So thank you very much and cheers to you all. May your days be filled with success, love, friendship, and grace.

With loving respect…

Sheriff Uling

p.s. The visa process is a stressful life sucking ambiguous process that I wouldn’t wish upon my most deadliest adversary.
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-26 16:48:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

:help: Hi everyone! I am preparing the stuff Philip needs for his interview on the 8th February. I have my affadavit of support form(notarized) , I have a statement from my 401k
I have printed out 1 years worth of bank statements(savings/checking), I have a letter of reference from my employer, I have printed out statements from phone bill showing all my long distance calls to Philippines, since july 2006 till now, I have copy of K-1 petition and all NOA's , I am trying to find recent cards he sent me , and I am waiting for that *$)#^(@! letter from my bank! I am gonna organize all this stuff in logical manner (that should take me all day LOL!) anyway am I missing anything? any advice/guidance? He is gonna bring all his stuff, like my letters, pictures etc, fonecards. Please let me know thanks! GOd Bless all of you!


The bank statements are in fact necessary if you are either self-employed, paid by 1099's, not a W2 employee or commission only employee on big ticket items. I am a broker (self-employed), so the interviewer requested bank letter, tax returns with attached 1099's and bank statements from my wife at the interview.

Thanks Glenn & Rosemarie... I was looking through my narrow vision of working for the man versus those who are the man... LOL!!! Or woman...
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-26 14:12:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

:help: Hi everyone! I am preparing the stuff Philip needs for his interview on the 8th February. I have my affadavit of support form(notarized) , I have a statement from my 401k
I have printed out 1 years worth of bank statements(savings/checking), I have a letter of reference from my employer, I have printed out statements from phone bill showing all my long distance calls to Philippines, since july 2006 till now, I have copy of K-1 petition and all NOA's , I am trying to find recent cards he sent me , and I am waiting for that *$)#^(@! letter from my bank! I am gonna organize all this stuff in logical manner (that should take me all day LOL!) anyway am I missing anything? any advice/guidance? He is gonna bring all his stuff, like my letters, pictures etc, fonecards. Please let me know thanks! GOd Bless all of you!

JelloShotGirl...

You will not need the bank statements from your honey's savings/checking. They are not required. The letter from the bank is sufficient, however unnecessary, if your honey makes over 125% of the poverty level. However, we submitted a bank letter anyway and I do recommend it...

Cheers and my God bless you as well!!!

Sheriff Uling

p.s. If you are submitting pictures, they don't accept copies of pictures (at least in our case). We printed out thumbnails from our online photo album, which they did not accept, but we did have the originals pictures in a hard copy photo album, in which they accepted and returned after the visa interview.

Edited by Sheriff Uling, 26 January 2007 - 02:00 PM.

Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-26 13:58:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
Congrats BiaNcaShey... Trust me! This was the hardest and most stressful part of the entire process. Cheers!!!
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-24 02:52:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
LOL! This whole engagement ring and wedding ring business is hilarious!!!
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-23 18:39:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Our new interview date is February 26. :dance:

Posted ImagePosted ImagePosted Image

Edited by Sheriff Uling, 22 January 2007 - 08:42 PM.

Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-22 20:41:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Sorry for rehashing this but here's what our collective knowledge has come up with regard to cheap airfare:

If you use a Philippine Travel Agent and book a flight with PAL, you can get a 'first time' discount (if it is in fact the first time your fiancee has travelled abroad).

It's much cheaper to book the departure on a Sunday.

If you have to reschedule, PAL charges only $25 for flights that originate in the Philippines - if you book a nonstop from Manila to LAX for example.

I don't think you can go wrong with using PAL! :star:

I would personally recommend PAL for flights to and from the Phil mainly because I'd rather travel ~13hrs vs. ~18hrs. For flights from the states to the Phil there is one stop for about an hour and you don't switch planes. The return trip is a non-stop flight. Yeah Baby Yeah! Not to mention the re-booking fee to re-schedule a flight is a nominal $25. Not unless they slap my momma or insult my wife, I'm sticking with PAL. ;) Cheers!!!
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-22 15:46:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
VJ Family...

Check out our personal website...

- Ahmari & Jhen
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-22 10:48:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Since it is a "slow news day" in the Manila forum, I'll share that last night Jenalyn and I got married. We were married by the Camp Hill Mayor at the Cornerstone Coffee House (and wedding chapel) and then everybody walked down the street to the Lebanese restaurant for a feast (complete with belly dancers) prepared by Mike the owner. Not exactly a "traditional" wedding night, but it was a blast, and everybody and a great time (some more then others based upon the number of wine bottles we went through).

CONFREAKINGRATULATIONS!!!

In my eyes, there is no such thing as "traditional" anymore. I wouldn't change my "non-traditional" wedding for anything in the world. I'm so happy for you my brother and your new family. May your days be blessed with incredible prosperity, health, and most of all love.

Edited by Sheriff Uling, 20 January 2007 - 07:01 PM.

Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-20 19:01:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Whoa, slow day...

We didn't get the memo or invitation either. Their all on lunch break from VJ. LOL!!!

Opps... They're all on lunch break from VJ...
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-20 18:38:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Whoa, slow day...

We didn't get the memo or invitation either. Their all on lunch break from VJ. LOL!!!
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-20 18:27:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
Phil-Am K1 Information…
I'm almost ready to go final with this...

Pre NOA2

(K1 Introduction) - If you are just starting your K1 visa journey, please check out this information provided by the Department of State (DOS) on the K1 visa experience (CLICK HERE). I found this information very insightful when I first started. Please note that the “How to Apply for a Social Security Number Card” section is INCORRECT because K1 visa beneficiaries may ONLY apply for a SSN card upon arriving into the United States. Please also review VJ's K1 guide (CLICK HERE)

(Case Status) - Once you have filed your case and received your case number, please register on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website using the Case Status Online Tool to receive emailed updates concerning your case (CLICK HERE). NOTE: If you want emailed updates to multiple addresses then you must create multiple customer portfolio accounts. When your petition is approval (NOA2), this tool is of no further use to you until after the beneficiary arrives in the states, get’s married, applies for the Adjustment of Status (AOS), Employment Authorization Document, (EAD), and/or Advance Parole (AP) because this tool does not track the activity being performed at the National Visa Center (NVC) or the Manila Embassy.

Post NOA2

(1). The National Visa Center (NVC) number is within my signature. NVC assigns your case number once your case is approved (NOA2). They also may perform a preliminary background check from what I’ve read then forwards your package/case to the Manila Embassy. This process usually takes anywhere from 14 – 30 days.

(2). The Manila Embassy (USE) Packet 4, the phone number, a visa interview testimony, along with a sample Appointment Letter are within my signature block. NOTE: Packet 4 can be acquired from the Manila Embassy website which gives directions on what documents are required by the beneficiary for the visa interview. Starting 01 November 2006, ALL nonimmigrant visa applicants must use the online Electronic Visa Application Form (EVAF) to complete the DS-156 (Nonimmigrant Visa Application). To date, only the DS-156 has the barcode (on the first and last page) and is the ONLY form available online at http://evisaforms.state.gov. However, the USE is now including the form DS-156 with the barcodes as part of Packet 4. You may complete the DS-156K (Nonimmigrant Fiancé(e) Visa Application) and the DS-157 (Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application) (this is the form the bank validates when you pay the visa application fee) and the I-134 (Affidavit of Support) via the computer, type-writer, or handwritten. See the Most Frequently Asked Questions for the K1 visa forms (CLICK HERE). If you need to call the Manila Embassy, dial 0 for the operator, and ask for the Immigrant Visa Unit. The average interview appointment is assigned approximately 100 – 150 days from the receipt of your package from the NVC. Beneficiaries are now sent a letter of receipt from the USE once their physical files are received. However, this is NOT Packet 3 because the Manila Embassy ONLY issues Packet 4, and the letter of receipt is not always sent to the beneficiaries. Please also check out this instructional visa interview information (CLICK HERE) (Thx Sillygirl).

(3).The Department of State (DOS) number is within my signature. After your case is approved (NOA2) and reaches the Manila Embassy, you may call DOS instead on the Manila Embassy to obtain status of your case and make inquiries concerning your interview date. NOTE: DOS has no direct participation in the K1 process.

(4). The Visa Interview Appointments website is within my signature (the beneficiary's interview appointment and medical exam will be scheduled by the USE). NOTE: Please do NOT press enter after the case number is entered because that will not yield a result. Please click on the "Check Appointment" tab. If the appointments have been scheduled, the following will be available: Case Number, Visa Classification, St. Luke’s appointment Date, and Embassy Appointment Date, but if the appointments are NOT scheduled yet, the result will be "Case Number Not Found on Appointment List."

(5). St. Luke’s Extension Clinic (SLEC) information is within my signature. SLEC is where the beneficiary goes to take the medical exam and vaccination. The process takes two days: Day 1 is the medical exam (the beneficiary's passport will be taken and sent to the USE along with the medical exam results) and; Day 2 is the vaccination (the beneficiary will be given the x-ray film and the vaccination worksheet/record). NOTE: If the Manila Embassy does not mail the beneficiary the K1 Visa Packet 4 and the Appointment Letter, then call SLEC in order to pick them up at SLEC and take a copy of the NOA2, a copy of the NVC letter (a.k.a. Bureau of Consular Affairs (BCA) letter) (which should have the beneficiary's Manila case number on it), and a print-out of the scheduled appointment dates from the Visa Interview Appointments website. Be advised, the beneficiary's medical exam will be scheduled one week before the visa interview by the USE. Per the Manila Embassy Thread, we recommend that the beneficiary takes the medical exam anywhere from 2 weeks to a month before the interview to ensure the results are available for the Consular Officer and to prepare in the unfortunate event of unfavorable medical results. If the medical exam is taken anytime over a month before the visa interview, there is a risk that the results could be invalid, which means the beneficiary will have to take another medical exam before the visa can be approved. The beneficiary may reschedule the medical exam appointment with SLEC after the medical exam and visa interview dates are assigned by calling SLEC. Please don't forget to bring your passport, appointment letter (if received), passport photos, and the medical exam fee to your appointment. The beneficiary also needs to have the sponsors contact information (address, phone number, and ssn #) for the SLEC forms.

(6). The DELBROS website is within my signature. DELBROS is the company responsible for delivering the beneficiary’s Visa and POE information. The DELBROS delivery fee is paid subsequent to the beneficiary’s visa interview at the Manila Embassy. Per the Manila Embassy website, the current delivery fee/time is as follows:

* Metro Manila Areas, 135 Philippine Pesos, Delivered one (1) to three (3) business days after release of visaed passport to the courier
* Provincial Key Cities (ex. Cebu City, Davao City, etc.) 165 Philippine Pesos; Delivered three (3) to five (5) business days after release of visaed passport to the courier
* Outside Provincial Key Cities, (ex. Capiz, Leyte, Bukidnon, etc.), Cost depends on area/location, Delivered five (5) to seven (7) business days after release of visaed passport to the courier

NOTE: Per the DELBROS staff, the Manila Embassy can take as much as three (3) business days to release the visa and POE package, which is NOT included in the deliver times above. You may also call the Manila Embassy, dial 0 for the operator, and ask for Delbros, after the visa is approve, to acquire about the status of your visa delivery.

(7). Beneficiaries are required to attend a CFO Guidance and Counseling Seminar that are held in Manila and Cebu, whichever is more convenient, before traveling abroad (the corresponding links within my signature). Attending the CFO Guidance and Counseling Seminar is a Philippine government requirement which states, "Per Republic Act 8239 and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Order 28-94, Filipinos proceeding abroad as fiancé(e)s and spouses of foreign nationals are required to attend the CFO's guidance and counseling programs... " For more info (CLICK HERE). NOTE: The CFO Guidance and Couseling Seminar is not stated as a requirement within the Packet 4 instructions. However, after the visa is approved, instructions on attending the CFO Guidance and Counseling seminar are included in the visa and Port of Entry (POE) package received by the beneficiary. If the beneficiary takes the seminar before receiving the visa, then the beneficiary will have to return to the CFO in order to receive the CFO sticker anytime after the visa is received. Travel abroad is prohibited without the CFO sticker within the beneficiary's passport (the visa is within the passport). Please check out this instructional information on the PRISM Guidance and Counceling Seminar experience (CLICK HERE) (Thx Sillygirl).

(8). The I-94 Arrival / Departure Record form is within my signature. Foreigners (beneficiaries) complete the I-94 and the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer stamps the applicant’s visa and the arrival and departure portions of the I-94 at the Port of Entry (POE) when entering the States. The CBP Officer will keep the arrival portion and staple the departure portion of the I-94 to your visa where they stamped the beneficiaries arrival date. You will need this for the Adjustment of Status process. NOTE: Even though it’s simple, I have supplied this so you will know what it looks like and what is required to be filled out.

FINAL NOTE: The red text indicates the recent updates/chages. Please let me know if there are any suggestions. I have also correlated the numbers above to my signature below.
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-19 17:09:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

St. Luke’s Extension Clinic (SLEC) The beneficiary may reschedule the appointment with SLEC or walk-in with the appointment letter and/or NOA2. This is strange as my fiancee and I went to the St. Luke’s Extension Clinic with our NO2, the officer refused to allow us to enter as we had no appointment letter from the Embassy. What did we do wrong?
Our case finally arrived at the Embassy on December 19, but normally a two month backlog to send a packet to us.

Dr. Joe May


My fiancee was ready to go to St. Luke's with NOA2 and print-out from the Embassy VISA website showing the appointment date, and we would have requested packet pick-up there too (and I would have called SLEC to verify it's there). Our appointment letter showed up just in time, but we would have gone ahead and done it without the letter, as many people have done that successfully. Did your fiance take the print-out from the Embassy VISA website? Did you request packet pick-up at SLEC?

BTW, my fiancee is from CDO too. :)

Dr. May...

According to your timeline, your case arrived at the USE on 21 Dec 06 and you stopped by SLEC in November. The medical and interviews are schedule approximately 100 - 150 days from the receipt of the hardcopy files from the NVC. Again, I'm really sorry that you were turned away and like Gary505, I have not read that occurring in the past. However, it was a blessing because, if your medical exam results are completed too far in advance of your visa interview, the results could and probably would be invalid by the time your interview date comes around. Please continue to check the Visa Interview Appointments website and/or follow-up with the USE on the status of your appointment dates.

Cheers!!!

Sheriff Uling
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-18 19:25:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
Phil-Am K1 Information…
I'm almost ready to go final with this...

Pre NOA2

(K1 Introduction) - If you are just starting your K1 visa journey, please check out this information provided by the Department of State (DOS) on the K1 visa experience (CLICK HERE). I found this information very insightful when I first started. Please note that the “How to Apply for a Social Security Number Card” section is INCORRECT because K1 visa beneficiaries may ONLY apply for a SSN card upon arriving into the United States. Please also review VJ's K1 guide (CLICK HERE)

(Case Status) - Once you have filed your case and received your case number, please register on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website using the Case Status Online Tool to receive emailed updates concerning your case (CLICK HERE). NOTE: If you want emailed updates to multiple addresses then you must create multiple customer portfolio accounts. When your petition is approval (NOA2), this tool is of no further use to you until after the beneficiary arrives in the states, get’s married, applies for the Adjustment of Status (AOS), Employment Authorization Document, (EAD), and/or Advance Parole (AP) because this tool does not track the activity being performed at the National Visa Center (NVC) or the Manila Embassy.

Post NOA2

(1). The National Visa Center (NVC) number is within my signature. NVC assigns your case number once your case is approved (NOA2). They also may perform a preliminary background check from what I’ve read then forwards your package/case to the Manila Embassy. This process usually takes anywhere from 14 – 30 days.

(2). The Manila Embassy (USE) Packet 4, the phone number, a visa interview testimony, along with a sample Appointment Letter are within my signature block. NOTE: Packet 4 can be acquired from the Manila Embassy website which gives directions on what documents are required by the beneficiary for the visa interview. Starting 01 November 2006, ALL nonimmigrant visa applicants must use the online Electronic Visa Application Form (EVAF) to complete the DS-156 (Nonimmigrant Visa Application). To date, only the DS-156 has the barcode (on the first and last page) and is the ONLY form available online at http://evisaforms.state.gov. However, the USE is now including the form DS-156 with the barcodes as part of Packet 4. You may complete the DS-156K (Nonimmigrant Fiancé(e) Visa Application) and the DS-157 (Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application) (this is the form the bank validates when you pay the visa application fee) and the I-134 (Affidavit of Support) via the computer, type-writer, or handwritten. See the Most Frequently Asked Questions for the K1 visa forms (CLICK HERE). If you need to call the Manila Embassy, dial 0 for the operator, and ask for the Immigrant Visa Unit. The average interview appointment is assigned approximately 100 – 150 days from the receipt of your package from the NVC. Beneficiaries are now sent a letter of receipt from the USE once their physical files are received. However, this is NOT Packet 3 because the Manila Embassy ONLY issues Packet 4, and the letter of receipt is not always sent to the beneficiaries. Please also check out this instructional visa interview information (CLICK HERE) (Thx Sillygirl).

(3).The Department of State (DOS) number is within my signature. After your case is approved (NOA2) and reaches the Manila Embassy, you may call DOS instead on the Manila Embassy to obtain status of your case and make inquiries concerning your interview date. NOTE: DOS has no direct participation in the K1 process.

(4). The Visa Interview Appointments website is within my signature (the beneficiary's interview appointment and medical exam will be scheduled by the USE). NOTE: Please do NOT press enter after the case number is entered because that will not yield a result. Please click on the "Check Appointment" tab. If the appointments have been scheduled, the following will be available: Case Number, Visa Classification, St. Luke’s appointment Date, and Embassy Appointment Date, but if the appointments are NOT scheduled yet, the result will be "Case Number Not Found on Appointment List."

(5). St. Luke’s Extension Clinic (SLEC) information is within my signature. SLEC is where the beneficiary goes to take the medical exam and vaccination. The process takes two days: Day 1 is the medical exam (the beneficiary's passport will be taken and sent to the USE along with the medical exam results) and; Day 2 is the vaccination (the beneficiary will be given the x-ray film and the vaccination worksheet/record). NOTE: If the Manila Embassy does not mail the beneficiary the K1 Visa Packet and Appointment Letter, then call SLEC to arrange to pick them up at SLEC. Be advised, the beneficiary's medical exam will be scheduled one week before the visa interview by the USE. Per the Manila Embassy Thread, we recommend that the beneficiary takes the medical exam anywhere from 2 weeks to a month before the interview to ensure the results are available for the Consular Officer and to prepare in the unfortunate event of unfavorable medical results. The beneficiary may reschedule the appointment with SLEC or walk-in with the appointment letter and/or NOA2 (don't forget to bring the passport and medical exam fee).

(6). The DELBROS website is within my signature. DELBROS is the company responsible for delivering the beneficiary’s Visa and POE information. The DELBROS delivery fee is paid subsequent to the beneficiary’s visa interview at the Manila Embassy. Per the Manila Embassy website, the current delivery fee/time is as follows:

* Metro Manila Areas, 135 Philippine Pesos, Delivered one (1) to three (3) business days after release of visaed passport to the courier
* Provincial Key Cities (ex. Cebu City, Davao City, etc.) 165 Philippine Pesos; Delivered three (3) to five (5) business days after release of visaed passport to the courier
* Outside Provincial Key Cities, (ex. Capiz, Leyte, Bukidnon, etc.), Cost depends on area/location, Delivered five (5) to seven (7) business days after release of visaed passport to the courier

NOTE: Per the DELBROS staff, the Manila Embassy can take as much as three (3) business days to release the visa and POE package, which is NOT included in the deliver times above. You may also call the Manila Embassy, dial 0 for the operator, and ask for Delbros, after the visa is approve, to acquire about the status of your visa delivery.

(7). Beneficiaries are required to attend a CFO Guidance and Counseling Seminar that are held in Manila and Cebu, whichever is more convenient, before traveling abroad (the corresponding links within my signature). Attending the CFO Guidance and Counseling Seminar is a Philippine government requirement which states, "Per Republic Act 8239 and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Order 28-94, Filipinos proceeding abroad as fiancé(e)s and spouses of foreign nationals are required to attend the CFO's guidance and counseling programs... " For more info (CLICK HERE). NOTE: The CFO Guidance and Couseling Seminar is not stated as a requirement within the Packet 4 instructions. However, after the visa is approved, instructions on attending the CFO Guidance and Counseling seminar are included in the visa and Port of Entry (POE) package received by the beneficiary. If the beneficiary takes the seminar before receiving the visa, then the beneficiary will have to return to the CFO in order to receive the CFO sticker anytime after the visa is received. Travel abroad is prohibited without the CFO sticker within the beneficiary's passport (the visa is within the passport). Please check out this instructional information on the PRISM Guidance and Counceling Seminar experience (CLICK HERE) (Thx Sillygirl).

(8). The I-94 Arrival / Departure Record form is within my signature. Foreigners (beneficiaries) complete the I-94 and the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer stamps the applicant’s visa and the arrival and departure portions of the I-94 at the Port of Entry (POE) when entering the States. The CBP Officer will keep the arrival portion and staple the departure portion of the I-94 to your visa where they stamped the beneficiaries arrival date. You will need this for the Adjustment of Status process. NOTE: Even though it’s simple, I have supplied this so you will know what it looks like and what is required to be filled out.

NOTE: The red text indicates the recent updates/chages. Please let me know if there are any suggestions. I have also correlated the numbers above to my signature below.
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-18 13:07:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Hello everyone, I just want to thank you all for the support and information I got from this forum. We just got approved, I think, I asked the cosul he said we're ok, I saw the K APPROVED thing on a pink slip, I paid DELBROS... so I think that was it. My appointment was 7:30 and we get out the embassy by 9:30. K applicant with minors will be expedited, as far as I observed they attach and little thingy that says PLEASE EXPIDITE WITH MINOR, it's orange in color.

Very Cool... CONFREAKINGRATULATION!!!
Posted Image Posted Image Posted Image
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-18 01:48:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

question...i was at the uscis website, checking for forms, I have an i-134 affadavit of support form (expire 04/30/07) I was about to fill out...however I don't see it listed to download anymore on the site, I see something about I-864 form on Uling's posts. Do I need to fill out I-864 or I-134(affadavit of support??) should I submit both, what do I have to do??? thanks, Marg :blink: :unsure: :help: :girlwerewolf2xn:

Sponsors complete the I-134 form (Affadavit of Support) along with the beneficiaries K1 Visa Application. The I-864 form (Affadavit of Support) is completed during the Adjustment of Status process.

Cheers!!!

Sheriff Uling

NOTE: Please (CLICK HERE) to download the I-134 form (Affadavit of Support).
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-16 12:50:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

...Good news is that she is fine, lungs and sputum are clear... This whole mess cost us a fortune in airline tickets, private doctors, hotel and associated expenses... Does anyone know the absolute best way to go about requesting a "rescheduled" appointment? Her medical is complete and her passport is already at the USE. I will begin calling tomorrow morning Manila time.

CONGRATS! :dance: I truly understand about the additional cost that can and do quickly incur with the additional private doctors and other ensuing expenses. Unfortunately, I do not know the best way to go about rescheduling the interview. I would probably start by calling the USE to see if something can be done before having to pay the $18 to use the calling center in order to reschedule your visa interview.

Manila Embassy Thread - Rob needs some advice quick fast and in a hurry... Can you help?
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2007-01-15 09:07:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionINTERVIEW update!!!
So how much money did it take to bribe the Consular Officer so I can relate that to my fiance. LOL! Congrats!!!!
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2006-08-07 16:12:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussionmy interview
djcess - I'm so happy for you both. It's very extraordinary that you have found each other at such a tender age and for your relationship to develop, blossom, and maintain is extremely special. May your lives continue to be blessed. See ya around cyberspace!

Edited by Uling, 13 August 2006 - 01:59 PM.

Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2006-08-13 13:59:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionVisa APPROVED
CONGRATS! Please sprinkle some of your success our way as we prepare for the dreaded INTERVIEW!
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2006-08-13 21:40:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionI-134, Notarized
The notary put the stamp on the side because she could not fit it on the bottom. If needs be... I say put it on the back, but put it somewhere. I had a name change and the certification is on the back. So if it's good enough for the courts to do. Heck, it's good enough for a notary.

Chao...

Edited by Uling, 17 August 2006 - 02:04 PM.

Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2006-08-17 14:03:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionGuilty until proven innocent...
vartan - It's only alive because we all love a little drama. LOL!
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2006-08-19 17:45:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionGuilty until proven innocent...
Dean iWait - Oppps!!!! Thanks a bunch for the link. It was a great read.

Yodrak - You are still outrageous, but I've got love for you.
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2006-08-18 20:46:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionGuilty until proven innocent...
Yodrak - OUTRAGEOUS! Anyway, thanks for the GUIDANCE ON PETITION REVOCATIONS link.
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2006-08-18 19:01:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionGuilty until proven innocent...
john_and_marlene - Writing that I have only seen trolls scrutinizing folk does not mean that I am calling anyone a troll. There is a difference.
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2006-08-18 13:06:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionGuilty until proven innocent...
ceriserose - You made some great points. When I wrote "..work with me... Gsss!" I was just goofing off having fun especially because I saw that vartan was around. He and I have shared ideas and had brief dialogs in the past. You are right! I should have attempted to clarify what I thoughting.

Thanks for the post...
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2006-08-18 12:59:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionGuilty until proven innocent...
john_and_marlene - I did not make any negative comments concerning the usefulness of his information, label anyone a troll, or single anyone out. He quoted me and I simply responded to the quote… That was it! I'm not concerned about creating fanfare resulting in a bandwagon. That's shallow! Even with the direct questions that I have raised in this forum, there were only few responses and I expect that because this forum does not host many VJers at one particular time, at least that I've noticed. I just posted what I was thinking at the time. Honestly, I love being able to use the forums to commutate, laugh, learn, and grow with others experiencing like situations as an outlet from the madness. Hopefully this situation will not hurt our potential to share ideas in the future.
Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2006-08-18 12:45:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionGuilty until proven innocent...
john_and_marlene - Why would I post in the off topic forum concerning my analogy of how our cases are viewed at the Embassy level? There can be useful information passed commingled with a bit of fun and parody sparking conversation on any subject matter or thread. The disconnect only existed because I took offense to what "Yodrak" wrote. If he feels like the analogy doesn't make sense, then why post in this thread. He could have easily PM'd whomever he wanted to relay information or simply posted his what he wanted minus the ensuing negative comment. That was my only point and contention. I presume that I'm accustomed to the K1 forum where questions, ideas, comments, opinions or whatever are raised without scrutiny and judgment. Thus far, I have only see trolls scrutinizing folks. I apologize for presuming that the same type of love exited in this forum. For the future, I will only post direct questions in this forum to avoid this type of confusion/dialog.

Uling

p.s - If I have offended anyone then, I apologize.

Edited by Uling, 18 August 2006 - 11:58 AM.

Sheriff UlingMalePhilippines2006-08-18 11:53:00