ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
PhilippinesNVC Additional Processing?
The NVC has had our approved application for K-1 since 10/15, I called to check status and they said its going thru additional processing. They did not say there was a problem just going thru additional processing. Has anyone been told this and what does it mean?
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-10-26 22:47:00
PhilippinesOMG... for December Interview!
The NVC has our case right now and we are hoping we can get an Interview the first week of Dec. Airline tickest are cheaper then as well. I hear once the embassy has the file you can call and schedule interview which is suppost to be 2 -4 weeks from the time you call. Good luck to everyone out there waiting.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-10-21 16:56:00
PhilippinesThose who recently moved here in US
QUOTE (adiiann @ Oct 23 2009, 08:15 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hmmmmmm..... first.... having babies is a choice.... and doesn't come naturally because you always have things around to not get pregnant.


Anyway... I am so happy that you guys doing great here.

To those who took examination for professional certification.... Are you familiar with the examination for professional engineer here? as well as professional energy management? I mean, what are the requirements for those examination?

My husband and I wanted to take an examination. But our problem is my credentials, I heard that I need to have it converted to US standard.

Please be free to give "sensible" suggestions.


You need to find out what firm in your state does the evaluations of foreign College Diplomas and Credentials. I'm in Florida and preparing to send in my fiance's Philippine diploma and License so she can teach school here when she arrives.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-10-24 22:42:00
PhilippinesFor those who had recent Interview
I know most interviews only last about 5+ minutes. When the pre-screener & CO look at IRS returns did they carefully examine each page or do they just look at line 22 of your 1040 form. My reason for asking is my tax returns are at least 15 pages long and don't want to unnessarily drag out the interview. Anyone who has been through the interview recently, your input would be appreciated.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-10-28 20:59:00
PhilippinesWearing a face mask while flying?
H1N1 is airborne contagious up to 30ft. I'm certain wearing a good quality mask is helpful. It would be even better if everyone on plane wore one. I just connot imagine wearing one for a 13 hour flight! In light of all the facts available to us the vaccine is a good idea if you can get it.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-10-30 16:02:00
Philippineswhat we should do?
You can call USCIS but they are always less then helpful. You can check status on-line at www.uscis.gov. Or you can call the US Visa Service at 202-663-1225 and they can look it up and hopefully tell you the status. Good Luck!
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-01 19:01:00
PhilippinesNOA2 Approved 11-4-09


CONGRATZ!!!!
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-05 21:01:00
PhilippinesI-134 - Employment Verification Letter
Thank you very much for your responses as I was not sure what to tell my employer. I guess the embassy just takes the "Letter of Employment" at face value.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-06 17:59:00
PhilippinesI-134 - Employment Verification Letter
I am preparing the I-134 for the Interview and my employer will supply Letter of employment, but asked if he will now be contacted by USCIS to fill out any forms or answer any questions. I did not know how to answer that. Does anyone know about this? has anyone's employer been contacted? Assistance will be very much appreciated.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-06 15:07:00
Philippinestourist visa extension in the Philippines
I was in Philippines last Feb. & March and over stayed the 21 days by almost a week. They said nothing when I went to airport and boarded! The time before I went in and paid almost 5,000p in cash (everything is cash!) to a lady in an office. I still wonder where the money really went and when at airport they did not even look at the extension.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-07 12:29:00
PhilippinesK2 requirements
We are going thru K-1 & K-2 process right now. Our application is in route to USEM and no G-325 for my fiance's 10 year old son, just Passport & Birth Certificate.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-07 20:54:00
PhilippinesI-134 Copies of Payroll Checks
Phil, Thank you very much for your reply, it sounds like you were not at interview with shirr plus they still approved without even looking at the I-134. Maybe I'm making too much of this. It states on the USCIS instructions for the I-134 that copies of paychecks are not required just letter of employment and it sounds like nobody ever gets asked for them. I plan on being at the interview in hope that it adds credibility. I'm just trying to prevent going that far and having a problem.
Thanks again!
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-10 15:33:00
PhilippinesI-134 Copies of Payroll Checks
Unfortunately, I am a 1099 employee so there is no pay stub, just the check. I just hope that making a copy of check before cashing will surfice.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-10 12:36:00
PhilippinesI-134 Copies of Payroll Checks
I will be bringing to the interview copies of about 4 recent paychecks along with an employment verification letter. My employer is a small company and his checks do not have an attachment listing any year-to-date info. I will just make copies of the checks before I deposit them. Does anyone think this will be a problem. All input greatly appreciated.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-10 00:18:00
Philippinesmedical interview question
I doubt they will ask that question as the x-ray will tell them what they need to know. Should they ask, never lie, but be very careful how you phrase your answer. Remember what's at stake for you!
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-10 16:05:00
PhilippinesShe got the pink! hooorahhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Congratulations!!! I cannot imagine how excited you are.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-10 16:00:00
PhilippinesMail Service to the Philippines
Also, There is big time extortion by their customs, postal and fedex contractors there. There are alot of stories about this on VJ. I'm getting ready to ship a laptop and I'm scared to death as to the final cost.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-10 16:29:00
PhilippinesMail Service to the Philippines
I mailed a large padded envelope to northern Mindanao containing Birthday Card, shirt, 2 yo-yo's and a Debit Card. I mailed it on Oct. 26th USPS, Int'l Priorty 6-10 days. It still has not arrived! it only cost me $11.00. Whats funny, my fiance mails me a letter from mindanao and its here in 7 days maximum. Go figure!
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-10 16:25:00
PhilippinesShe's Approved - Pink Slip!
Congratulations! We are very happy for you. If you can give some details of the interview, we would love to hear about it.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-11 22:44:00
PhilippinesRFE
I understand your frustration with USCIS. I suggest 3 things 1. Send another copy regisered mail, return recipt requested, so they have to sign for it. 2. Do this first maybe, get an infopass appointment at your nearest USCIS field office (below is the link for that) and show them your Decree and see what they can do. 3. Call the US Visa service in Wash. DC @ 202-663-1225 and see if they can help. I wish you good luck.

http://infopass.uscis.gov//
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-11 17:42:00
PhilippinesRFE
It sounds like you obtained the correct document. Final Decree and Final Judgment to my knowledge are the same thing. I believe its time to get on the phone to the USCIS and get some answers.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-10 16:10:00
PhilippinesPurchasing Airline Tickets for the Philippines
I am faced with the exact same situation. I have found good prices on Cheapair.com (link below)(i.e. Manila - Tampa one-way $674.00) What I will attempt is to purchase my round trip ticket and one-way ticket at same time. I will locate flight number & price on CheapoAir then call the airlines direct for the seating arrangements and see if they will seat us together. I figure worth a try! I hope this helps. I have to agree thou with Tallcoolone, If all else fails just get on the silly plane and fly!, even if you are not next to each other. Goodluck!

http://www.cheapoair.com/
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-10-24 08:01:00
PhilippinesRetaining/Reclaiming Philippine citizenship
I think it's a good idea to have dual citizenship, I know I want my fiance to do that so if we retire in PI. Question though! does she have to do anything special to maintain her PI citizenship? Does she have to return periodically to maintain it? Anyone have the answer to that?
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-10-18 10:27:00
PhilippinesThank God!!!
Congratulations!!! You're on your way.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-15 22:28:00
PhilippinesWatch Manny VS Cotto online for free in HD
QUOTE (AbbynSheryl @ Nov 14 2009, 10:56 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
here watch the fight for free online in HD
abby n sheryl

http://www.blogtv.co...ple/wrwrestling


Thanks for the link! Enjoyed watching the fight
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-15 00:55:00
Philippines$18.00 PIN for calling USEM?
I was not sure if purchasing the PIN number only allowed for a certain number of minutes or only good for one call or what. I just did not know what to expect.

QUOTE (giojoy @ Nov 6 2009, 12:27 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I've used it so far 4 times already.. you have to use visa or mastercard credit card to obtain pin number.. but it sure works.. smile.gif


Thanks for your reply. it helped alot.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-05 23:35:00
Philippines$18.00 PIN for calling USEM?
Does anybody know how this works? how long is it good for?
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-05 22:27:00
PhilippinesTwo Jobs!
I am presently working 2 jobs, 1 full-time & 1 part-time. Would it be beneficial to get letters from both? My full-time job meets the minimum, plus I collect SS retirement. Would be kind of like icing on the cake to have letter of employment from my new part-time job or would be over kill and may cause a red flag? The thing is, here in the US right now everybody is struggling to get by, so having a part time job does not seem so unusal. Anyone have thoughts on this?
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-19 01:14:00
PhilippinesUS Citizen at the interview
QUOTE (Kevin- @ Nov 16 2009, 07:06 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My sweetie heard from her friend who recently got visa approval, that "most of the girls who's fiance was present for the interview were not approved". The apparent reasoning is that the girls were relying too much on their fiances or something. I had her clarify that the friend did not mean 'most of the rejected had their fiance present' but rather 'most with their fiance present were rejected'.

Is this true in anyone else's experience? I have intended to be there with her during the interview, specifically to explain any questions about my financial situation which is not typical. If it's a better idea for me not to be in the interview, I'll just write a letter on my business letterhead trying to explain what they might need to know or have clarified.

Maybe I'll just wait in the lobby, and in the letter include "If there are any uncertainties about the business and finance situation, I am waiting in the lobby and can answer any questions" heheheh.




Kevin, I'm in the same boat you are as to financials. I did not work last year ao I could go to the Philippines 3 times, so I've got to explain that and some other things. I really think its vital to be there, yes, theres a chance you may not be invited in the room, but your fiance could say you are sitting right outside. I'm inclined to think if he did have questions that he would speak with you. It also gives them a chance to size you up in person. its all about her becoming a public charge. JMHO
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-17 01:36:00
PhilippinesGo with her for interview?
QUOTE (Dakine @ Nov 18 2009, 01:56 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Alls I know is I've seen LOTS of petitioners kicking themselves in the butte for not attending the USEM interview [me included].
Never have seen anyone regretting they did attend.


Dakine, can you elaborate on how you being at fiancee's interview at USEM would have made things different? I ask as I'm going thru a similar situation and would enjoy your input.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-18 21:43:00
Philippinesdv before interview?
QUOTE (eddie999 @ Nov 18 2009, 02:44 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
i heard that usem/fpu is doing advanced dv/background check even before the interview so that when the applicant comes the co already knows about the applicant's info i.e. marriage, employment, nbi, etc. can anyone validate or share?


I'm sure the petitioner is investigated prior to interview or they would not have approved the 129F, I doubt they confirm employment other then looking at IRS records as current job may have changed after applying for visa as in my case. You go into the interview being already approved by USCIS and NVC. The final thumbs up or thumbs down comes from the Embassy.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-18 07:49:00
PhilippinesFilipina Fiance Visa .com
As to co-sponsors, here is a copy of e-mail from US Embassy Manila regarding co-sponsors.

Reference: Fiancé(e) Visa Information

Date: April 24, 2009



Dear (blocked out)



This is in reply to your inquiry of April 24, 2009, regarding your visa concerns.



Petitioners in fiancé(e) (K1) nonimmigrant visa cases are generally expected to provide the adequacy of their own financial resources to ensure that an alien, after admission into the United States, will not become primarily dependent on the US Government for subsistence. While our immigration law does not disallow joint sponsorships for K nonimmigrant visa applicants, the mere submission of an I-134 Affidavit of Support from joint sponsors is not sufficient to establish that the alien is not likely to become a public charge. Accordingly, we make a thorough evaluation of other factors, such as the sponsor’s motives in submitting the Form I-134, the sponsor’s relationship to the applicant or petitioner, the length of time the sponsor and applicant have known each other, etc. An I-134 Affidavit of Support submitted by a casual friend or distant relative who has little or no personal knowledge of the applicant has limited value. Unlike the I-864 filed by joint sponsors in immigrant visa cases, the I-134 is not legally binding and imposes no legal obligation on the joint sponsor to make good on his or her promises. Please be assured that we look at the totality of circumstances in assessing the credibility of joint sponsorships.



For information about financial sponsorship guidelines, you may visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website at http://www.uscis.gov.



Information regarding fiancé(e) and immigrant visa petitions may be found at our website at http://travel.state....types_1315.html or http://manila.usemba...v/wwwh3204.html.



Please direct future fiancé(e) and immigrant visa inquiries to this web link: http://manila.usemba...v/wwwh3230.html.



We hope this information is helpful to you.







Immigrant Visa Correspondence Unit

Consular Section

U.S. Embassy, Manila

1201 Roxas Boulevard

Manila, Philippines



Telephone: (632) 301-2000

Fax: (632) 301-2037




Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-12 00:13:00
PhilippinesFilipina Fiance Visa .com
Hi, We are using "Fililpina Fiance' Visa Service" I will be totally honest with you about this. If you have a basic uncomplicated case. Do it yourself! However, if it is not straight forward then you may want to get the assitance of some type of professional. DO NOT HIRE AN ATTORNEY! that's my personal opinion, but I think the majority will agree with me.
As for the Filipina Fiance Service, We are very happy. I accidently made one small omission on a form and they caught it! Had I sent it in directly to USCIS we would have received an RFE. True no phone number to call, however, I emailed them countless times with endless questions, I thought sure they would tire of me and stop responding, but they did not, they always promptly and accurately answered each question. We are hoping to have our interview in Dec. and I still contact them with questions and they always reply. Note: Keep in mind your questions to them. They cannot in anyway give you legal advice, they have to be careful about that. but I have to tell you, I found them to be a bargin at $249.00. Faced with this situation again. I would hire them again. I hope this helps you and we wish you the very best in your journey.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-11 23:55:00
PhilippinesPicking up Visa at Embassy?
Thanks for the replies. My problem is I will be flying in on a round trip ticket so I'm uncertain how to schedule things. Its really ashame they just don't make it a standard option for people when they fly half way around the world.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-24 21:13:00
PhilippinesPicking up Visa at Embassy?
Has many people had success at picking up visa rather then having it delivered? My fiancee lives in Mindanao so we would have to fly back there (the 3 of us) and wait 7-10 days then fly back to Manila for CFO and fly out to US. Obviously, it makes a lot more sense financially and otherwise to pick it up at Embassy in a couple of days and fly out from there. Is the Embassy generally understanding and helpful?
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-24 17:14:00
PhilippinesAny Americans here ever go to Maguindanao..
My fiancee lives in northern Mindanao and I find it very pleasant. It has been my experience there that it is a safe place to be for the most part. I think all things being considered and said it is my advice that all americans in the Philippines just need to always be aware of their surroundings. Remember, there is no 911 ! and it can sometimes be hard tell the good guys from the bad. Its true, during election time it is dangerous, so be very careful where ever you are at that time.
Southern Mindanao, we have family in Davao so I would go there and feel safe. To deliberately go to an area I know is full of radical muslims, no way! and Southern Mindanao ( Maguindanao, Zamboanga city) are from what I hear is right where they nest. It's really a shame too because I would love to go there.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-11-25 14:02:00
Philippinescalls to philippines
QUOTE (GuardianOne @ Oct 29 2009, 07:16 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
We use Skype on her laptop with a headset. Works liek a charm and she has a local US number and can call any US/Canadian number for free. Only $7 a month.


We also have Skype but was unaware of this feature, can you explain how I set my fiance in Philippines laptop to use that? Thanks
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-10-29 20:28:00
PhilippinesPhilippines VS USA!!!!
Interesting topic and some good comments being made. I will throw my 2 cents in for what it's worth. First of all, I really love the Philippines. My fiancee is from Northern Mindanao. If one cannot afford to live in the Philippines, forget the USA!
We rent a 2 story Townhouse in Northern Mindanao near Butuan. It's brand new and we pay $100.00 per month. Try and find that in the USA. We will live in the US, but look forward to moving back to the Philippines one day. Her family is fabulous! I love them dearly. The things to keep in mind I believe is 1. You do need to stay healthy and be careful, there is no 911 in the Philippines! Yes, there are some nice Hospitals there, but you could lay in the street for days before you are taken to the hospital. I'm in Florida and as I explained to my fiancee, if you are in a bad accident within minutes rescue squads and ambulances along with BayFlight are on the scene. Ain't gonna happen like that in the Philippines. As to the Terrorists Groups and Radical Extremists Muslims kidnapping and killing, only a fool would ignore that. No matter where you are, an american should always be very aware of his surroundings. I am anxious to check out Leyte, my fiancee has a friend there who is coming to the US with us in Jan. to her american fiancee. I hear its really nice and more safe then most.
Cebu is also nice. There are alot of things to consider and talk about. Here is a link to an american who has lived in Davao for quite awhile, you may find this helpful. In closing let me say this, one of the big things I like about the Philippines is that things move alot slower, almost like stepping back in time.

http://www.expatinte...Bob-Martin.html

Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-12-05 15:30:00
PhilippinesConflicting Info: Previous ITR's vs. Current Income.
I've been reading some conflicting information as to what's more important. What does weigh in heavier with Embassy CO, current income or previous Tax return?
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-12-08 23:52:00
PhilippinesPurchase a flight for my wife to come to US
QUOTE (LÜvtechwifey @ Dec 9 2009, 10:30 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (radialmonster @ Dec 10 2009, 09:03 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My wife and her son were approved and she has received her visa already. Now I need to purchase their plane tickets. I am in the US, she and her son are in the Philippines. I called some of the airlines to purchase a ticket, but they all say I can not purchase a ticket for her, she has to do it from within the Philippines. I called AAA travel which I am a member of, and they said the same thing.

Is this right? How am I supposed to purchase her tickets? I guess I could just send her the money and have her purchase it directly. If this is the case, any suggestions of where I can tell my wife to purchase the tickets?

Thank you!


Ask her to call Alisto travel and tours at 02-8724633 and look for Lali. She can give your wife a very nice quote.
I purchased my ticket from their travel agency for only $535 including all taxes- one way (with first time immigrant). Your wife can purchased their tickets in a travel agency. Just send the money to her.


$535.00 is great price! where did you fly to in US for that rate? I'm getting ready to buy tickets for my fiance and her son.
Mr.&Mrs.ANot TellingPhilippines2009-12-09 23:52:00