biggish data

QUOTE (natashenika @ Jan 15 2008, 11:00 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

How can Iget there? the nearest subway station is LUK"YANOVSKAYA how far is the embassy form the sabway station? cn I walk or it's better to get a cab?

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????

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2008-01-16 13:50:00

QUOTE (awu25 @ Jan 2 2008, 11:25 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (etripke @ Jan 2 2008, 09:09 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Toby, do a Google search for "WiFi hot spots in Kiev".

My fiancee did search on google and the ones we went they require registered cell phone. Her phone is prepaid so it doesn't work. I need to work on my notebook so unless the internet cafe allows me to tap into their network it wouldn't work for me. I will ask next time if they'd let me do that.

Thanks

They should allow it. I used my Vonage softphone from the Cafe and they charged me for the bandwidth used. Just don;t allow them to screw with your laptop unless you know exactly what they are about to do to it.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2008-01-02 12:38:00

QUOTE (awu25 @ Dec 31 2007, 10:12 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I was in Kiev November and we spent 3 hours looking for a WIFI so I could get online using my notebook and we couldn't find one. We checked the coffee shops and they didn't have WIFI. Does anyone know where I could find WIFI next time I am there?

Toby, do a Google search for "WiFi hot spots in Kiev". I found some located in a few places, but I'm certain it was less than a dozen of them. I never ended up in one of those locations, used an internet cafe on the first visit, and they allowed me to tap into their network. One of the places in downtown Kyiv with WiFi was a pizza joint as I recall.

I read an interesting article a couple of weeks ago where the Ukrainian government has increased their monitoring of the Internet traffic in and out of the country including tapping into email. There were some groups trying to restrict this, but it doesn't sound like it is going to stop it any time soon.

E.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2008-01-02 09:09:00

QUOTE (LvivLovers @ Nov 19 2007, 09:52 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Hi all! Just wanted to check in and tell you that my wife is now in the USA with me and we are VERY happy! We even were able to bring her cat and dog (not easy, but somehow we got it done)! I couldn't believe it because we flew in through Atlanta, and got the bags (4 huge bags at 23+ kg each), cat, dog, and through all the immigration stuff in about 15 minutes. It usually takes me an hour with just one bag, so we were really lucky this day. They didn't ask us any questions at all. So everything is good and finally we are together. Good luck to everyone else and thanks for all the great help and support you have all provided to us here!

Congrats!! Glad to hear she made it safe with the Animals as well.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-11-24 18:58:00

QUOTE (LvivLovers @ Nov 1 2007, 10:21 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I'm still waiting for Oleksandra to write up her interview experience. She's been busy packing her things right now. She received her K3 visa from FedEx today, so it only took 3 days from approval to getting it in her hands in Lviv! We are all set!

That's great news! They must be processing the Visa's diferently now.

We have 3 days until the flight. I'm still getting things ready, but should be all set in a day or so.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-11-01 14:17:00

QUOTE (LvivLovers @ Oct 29 2007, 05:07 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Thank you for the support everyone! I just talked to Oleksandra...her K3 visa has been approved! She's going to let me know all the details once she returns home.

Best of luck to everyone else who is still waiting!

Congratulations! Looking forward to hearing about it.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-29 06:41:00

QUOTE (Mariya @ Oct 28 2007, 02:41 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

WOW! That was interesting to read how you Americans percieve life here in Ukraine!!!
My husband spent 3 months with us in Ukraine this time - and some of his comments are so simillar to those above!
I'll send him the reference to this page and he might have a good time reading it.

I have always had a great time there. We did discuss my moving, but with a young son in my life it would be tough and I know I couldn't handle leaving him behind. I have seen others on VJ just pack up and leave their children behind...I can't do it. I could leave the rest of family behind no problem, I'm an adult I know I'd see them again and would stay in touch but there is zero dependency on them or for them on me.

This will be Lena's first time being really far away from family. One of the draws to her was the family make up and respect of family within Ukrainian culture. I admire that, and here in the states it is unfortunately not as strong or binding as it seems to be there. Our culture and society seem to forget family sometimes or they look at it very differently from the perspective of how we treat our parents and elderly.

Sorry, just rambling again. Lena will have some tough days ahead I'm sure. I've prepared for this as much as I can. She'll have access to Vonage phone service to call home, I left my laptop there with her family so they can email from home, and use the Vonage "Softphone" for up to 500 minutes of calling per month for only $9.99. The laptop is set up for Video conferencing through Microsoft Messenger. Lena will have all of this, and I just had an International Dish from DirecTV installed this past week so she will have Ukrainian channel 1+1 available to watch here anytime she desires. When I went over last July-August I took her a new Cell Phone (unlocked) and when she leaves Kyiv next Monday she will just swap out the sim card, and be on the ATT network for sms updates on her flights, and to call once the plane lands at O'Hare. She will also have International sms capabilities here in Madison.

Then I went a step further and was introduced to a couple of guys here that have Russian wives and we will meet more couples through them. I felt that native speakers would be a great connection to FSU culture, and offer tips and advice for her. I learned there are over 1,500 FSU diaspora (spell?) here in Madison so she will meet some of them for certain. We actually have a school here where many of them are taking their children several times a week to teach and keep them in touch with Russian language.

One thing that I am disappointed in over here is regarding things for Lena's daughter. Lena's 10 year old daughter has been in Dance since age 3. She has been performing for a dance company in Kyiv since that age, making the "cut" at age 6. The cost for the training and so forth over there is very reasonable, and much more intense (training 5-6 days a week sometimes) than about 95% of the schools here in the USA. I checked into one school here and it was outragous in price for only 1 day a week. That will be something we'll have to wait on for awhile.

E.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-28 10:46:00

QUOTE (LvivLovers @ Oct 27 2007, 01:54 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

It's always interesting reading other's experiences.

1) I'm using NWA/KLM this time around. In the past I used whatever got me there...Aerosvit, Ukraine International, LOT Polish Airlines, United, and Delta. So far the best flight I was on was United on the way over. They showed 3 good movies back to back...things like Pirates of the Carribean 2 like only a month after it was in theatres. I fly Delta a lot but their movies always seemed terrible to me. Also on United, just in normal economy or whatever, the seats were leather and nice and big...plenty of leg room. I hope the KLM flights are good, but no idea what to expect there. The price seemed reasonable at least. It seems much easier to me to make reservations going to/from Kyiv only then hopping on Aerosvit to travel between Kyiv and Lviv...seems like there's never trouble getting one of these flights. Also in the past I was able to get round trip tickets for $4...yes $4...they added like 30-40 in taxes too, but still that's really cheap.

2) My wife and I met on one of the international dating websites. I signed up out of boredom one day not really expecting to find anyone but figured what the heck! Worth a shot! But after about a month, there she was...the woman of my dreams! Despite coming from different countries and cultures, she is a better match for me than anyone I have ever met in the US. I'm still pinching myself! We're a perfect match.

3) I haven't tried bus or train yet. Sounds like good times though! =)

4) Haven't done that one yet either. Aerosvit was scary enough for me.

5) My experience with the restaurants in Lviv was great. Always had great food at good prices. It was a lot better than I expected because I'm a very picky eater.

As far as Ukrainian women...I don't know about the others, but my wife is amazing. She's the perfect blend of beauty, sweetness, intelligence, and good morals! I definately didn't believe that such a person existed anywhere in this world. So I feel very blessed also!

Our interview is on Monday! I know she will do great, but I'll breathe a lot easier once she's been approved! Oleksandra doesn't appear to be nervous at all....go figure! hahaha

Best of luck to both of you. You have had smooth sailing so far and there is no reason to think otherwise. The Embassy staff are first rate, respectful and seem to really want to give you what you want.

Best wishes!

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-27 21:02:00

QUOTE (zqt3344 @ Oct 26 2007, 09:37 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Well super that is great to hear.

I think we all are lucky to be honest, based on what I have seen and read from others posting on this visajourney website and seeing what others go through having finances in other countries, this Ukraine USA embassy appears to be very easy to deal with, based on what I have seen and read so far, and from personal experience also.

ON the lighter side of things just curious about anyone else's experiences in Ukraine.

1) Curious to ask you other Ukraine K1s, what air service do you use when you fly in and out of Ukraine and do you mostly fly to Kiev or try flying to other cities, reason I ask, when I try flying to other cities besides Kiev it gets kind of unreliable and hectic sometimes, flights get cancelled for now apparent reason in other words then you are scrambling at the airport.

I have used both LOT Polish Airlines and Northwest/KLM. I prefer the Northwest/KLM flights by far. Much nicer aircraft.

2) How did most of you meet your finances? Meet mine while at a friend's New Years Eve party in USA of all places while she was here in USA visiting her sister.

We were introduced through a mutual friend (former co-worker of mine and Ukrainian by birth). We were intro'd via email and then things just progressed to phone, and 3 visits.

3) Any of you have the old bus or train experiences yet whiles traveling around the country of Ukraine?

I have both, but our vacation to the Carpathians in July of this year involved a 14 hour train ride from hell which I would not recommend for anyone. But Ukrainians are tough, for them it is business as usual and being a pampered Yank it was uncomfortable. The return trip was miserable due to the weather, it was very hot outside and had to have been over 100 degrees in the compartment. I ended up stripping down to only my underwear, throwing on a pair of workout shorts, and worrying about dehydration. Next time, I would consider a flight in the backseat of a bi-plane.

4) How about those old 1930s or 40s or 40s airlines from DonAirbus or Dneprovia airlines that link up between cities in Ukraine, anyone every ride on one of those? I thought I was going to meet my maker one night in December flying one to Odessa! Those things are held together by a band aide and rubber band literally.

I have not done that yet

5) Also have you found that the restaurants totally suck, I mean you wait for 2 hours for the food, it costs way too much for Ukraine and they serve next to nothing and then it tastes like #######! AHHA I see why everyone there eats at home and goes to grocery store and buys their own and refuses to eat at a restaurant, but I had no idea it would be that bad. Everytime I go back to visit I notice that those same restaurants will be closed or out of business!

You my friend have not been to a nice restuarant. I have had some great meals over there and love anything Georgian or Khazak. I have always been the sort of guy who can eat almost anything and I love to cook myself. Some of the cuisine may be "bland" by our standards, but by and large it is a healthier diet than the ####### we eat over here with all of the preservatives, and fat. How many fat children did you see over there? I saw very few compared to the states. I love the "presentation' of the meal as well, some of the courses look like a work of art, and show alot of care and thought in making it. I did eat in one Mexican restuarant in Kyiv that was expensive. The same meal at ChiChi's or someplace similar would have cost about half as much, and been tastier. On the other hand I ate at several upscale restuarants which were VERY reasonable compared to the states, maybe even 1/2 the cost.

Hope everyone is doing well and having a good time and K1 experience. I know I cannot say how many times over and over I have truly been blessed by meeting my wife from Ukraine, the women of Ukraine are by far the best I have ever seen in Eastern Europe or for that matter the world, they are definitely one of a kind and a cut above the rest, I never dreamed any woman could be so good and beautiful in this world.

ZQT3344
[/b]

I agree with you here for certain. Although I can't compare her to many other countries, I have lived abroad before and we have a great life ahead of us. The cultural differences work to each others advantage at times, and will make for interesting days otherwise. I know there are some American men out there who got into this situation looking for a "Wife" while others are looking for a "soul-mate" and I consider myself the latter. We think alike and Lena's strengths are in her intelligence, and self sufficiency which will serve us well here in the States. She is also a great Mom and will be a great step Mom for my son.

E.

Edited by etripke, 27 October 2007 - 08:47 AM.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-27 08:46:00

I Just moments ago received a sms from Lena, and she has the pssports back w/Visas in hand. I am amazed she recieved them so quickly, and given it was a Monday Interview, and they batch process them, I don't know what this does to our perception of them holding them for each Monday. If indeed that were the case, then she wouldn't receive it until next week. Alternatively, she live lives in Kyiv and if it was processed on Monday, she should have had it yesterday or even Tuesday given the shipping?

Sorry, I'm rambling here. We are now set for the November 5th departure and arrival at O'Hare.

E.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-25 07:14:00

QUOTE (zqt3344 @ Oct 22 2007, 12:22 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

etripke:
Well good to hear you got your visa approved, but curious, how come you had to take fingerprints at embassy and how come you were at NVC for 5 weeks? Just did not know they were doing this now to K1s .
ZQT3344

First of all thanks to all for the hearty congrats. We feel great right now, the flight has been reserved, and we'll roll the dice tomorrow and buy the tickets. She was told the usual of receiving the passports within 10 days.

The issue of the delay at NVC will probably never really be known, but my guess is that there was a "near hit" on her name check. DOS and the FBI run a pretty comprehensive check on the beneficiary & something must have came up, needed additional checking, and then the petition was forwarded to the Embassy. I had heard from one petitioner who's fiancee was from Belarus who went through a similar situation. The results of his congressional were that someone out there either had the same name or used his fiancee's. Once at the Embassy in Warsaw they did prints on her and ran the additional checks there. Lena was asked to give prints, so I would assume it was a name check issue. She also was asked if she had ever been to the states before (never has) and the consulate officer seemed to compare her Police Certificate with papers in front of him. Incidentally, I did do a search of Lena's name online. I found two women listed as being involved in Marriage Fraud schemes with her name only with the Russian spelling of her first name. One was Russian and the other lives in Eastern Ukraine. Both actually had photos on the fraud sites, neither looked like my Lena, and both were of different age by a number of years (one much younger, one about 9 years older).

In any case she asked if she was approved and the officer said "yes you got your Visa" gave her the slips (which said "congratulations" on them) and then were turned in for the passport shipping. So, all is good.

I just came home from work, it was a long day on the Pistol/Rifle range for In-Service and I'm wiped out, but it beat the hell out of "shagging" calls for service all shift.

For those of you waiting, rest assured the Embassy is VERY on top of things, and even with the apparent scrutiny, Lena said it was not a bad experience.

Thanks again, I can't wait for November 5th!

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-22 16:20:00

Visa Approved!!

I just now got off the phone with Lena. She had a longer than anticipated wait at the embassy. Her appointment was at 09.30 and she called me at 12.52 Kyiv time so all in all she was in the Embassy for over 4 hours.

She said that she waited for over 2 hours for the interview itself, and they DID take fingerprints from her which I suspected was going to happen given we were stuck at NVC for a solid 5 weeks. I think that she most likely had a near hit on name checks while there and they had to do it.

She said like everyone else has said that the interview itself was pretty short, and non-eventful. She said the consulate officer was American and complimented her on her English specifically saying she had a "nice accent" which she took to mean her speech is very clear and understandable. He then seemed to engage more in small talk with her asking her if she was going to live here in Madison, and then telling her that it is a great place to live and that he has been here. He commented about the University of Wisconsin being here and their large Slavic Studies department (maybe he's alumni?) and then give her the slips to pay for the return of the passports etc.

She said he didn't look at anything she brought in, and that he briefly looked at the I-134, but returned everything. She was asked if she had ever had a name change from her previous marriage (which she had not, always maintaining her maiden name) but nothing else.

So, I'll keep everyone up to date on her arrival. Right now we are looking at Monday November 5th for her and Sasha (her daughter) to arrive.

I really would like to thank all of you for the support, and FWAGUY for starting this thread. It really did help us prepare and certainly helped me keep my sanity during the wait.

E.

Edited by etripke, 22 October 2007 - 05:17 AM.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-22 05:14:00

Well, we now have less than 15 hours until the interview. Lena is nervous, and we just finished vdeo conferencing and going over the folder. Basically we set the folder up similar to what has been posted in this thread, it is organized and follows the KEV-1 checklist. We ended up doing a second folder for evidence of the relationship that was put together in chronological order of the 3 visits I made in the past 14 months, and photos from each visit. We probably have about 30 emails interspersed over close to 2 years of writing, and complete Vonage phone records to both her cell phone and home phone over the entire relationship. To top it off, we put in a new letter of intent signed jointly, and a letter from a circuit court judge who has agreed to set aside time on his calendar to perform the civil ceremony and his assurances that it will be completed within the 90 days.

I just cannot imagine a failure here. We have done our homework, preparation, and thanks to all of you have assembled a complete package.

So, until tomorrow I'll bow out of watching VJ and ask for your prayers, and best wishes for a successful interview.

I'll post tomorrow once I receive word from Lena.

Edited by etripke, 21 October 2007 - 10:54 AM.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-21 10:52:00

QUOTE (Deron @ Oct 19 2007, 05:43 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (etripke @ Oct 19 2007, 04:48 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (Zadan @ Oct 19 2007, 12:21 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE

The Embassy will NOT schedule an interview until they have the hard copy of the petition in their system. Once you have the KEV number from NVC get the medical out of the way, and make certain your other needed documents are sent soon.

The lead times for interviews have dropped a bit since this past summer. I think 8 weeks is a stretch, more like 35-45 days right now. I looked through timelines from last fall, and they seem to drop around this time of year, and as some of the announced interview dates have come in over the past several weeks, I think you can expect them to be closer to the range I quoted above.

As you pointed out the mailrooms are bogged down and NVC will see your petition in about a month. Start calling NVC in a couple of weeks to see if they have received it and when they have get the KEV number over the phone.

The NVC rep told me as soon as I had a KEV# I could contact the embassy in Kiev. I did as soon as I got one and it worked.

I recall an official wait-time being listed somewhere on the State Dept. website somwhere for the embassies. Anyone remember where it is?

You never received any notification from NVC and I would guess the Embassy had your hard copy of the petition when you called. Trust me, they won't do it unless it is there. The Embassy used to have a statement on the Fiance/ee visa page that would say something like "now scheduling interviews for the week of.." but they stopped doing that some around the end of May/early June.

State Department dates do not show the "Immigrant Visa" types. Just the others, or at least that is what I saw last time I looked. Although the K-1 is classified as a non-immigrant it does go to the IV unit in Kyiv.

Etripke is right, about 35-45 days from the time you call and it will take them about 10-15 days or so from the time it is sent from NVC to the embassy before they can put it in their system. Then you can call the call center and make an appointment. Believe me, I tried from the moment I got the KEV# from NVC, they will not have it in their computer system until the embassy enters it. You may always get lucky though like Etripke and get an appointment a couple weeks out

Speaking of Etripke, good luck to you on Monday my friend, I can't wait to hear of your approval.

Have a nice weekend all...

Thanks Buddy. We're both really anxious to to get it over with, and appreciate the thoughts. I'll post first thing Monday morning and let you know how things go.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-19 19:27:00

QUOTE (Zadan @ Oct 19 2007, 12:21 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-19 06:48:00

QUOTE (Olya2007 @ Oct 18 2007, 02:26 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (Zadan @ Oct 18 2007, 12:02 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (Olya2007 @ Oct 17 2007, 08:13 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Hi everyone!
Just got our NOA2 after 153 days of waiting. I know that waiting will continue with recent situation on sending documents from CSC to NVC. Just wanted to ask those of you who recently scheduled interview in Kiev, how long it takes to wait for appointment from the time you call ? Hoping to reunite before Christmas
Thanks in advance

8 weeks. So if you know now that you will have everything by then, get your KEV# handy and call NOW to schedule your interview.

Thanks, Zadan.
Just hoped that it would be less then that... Oh well, will wait...

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-18 22:21:00

Yeah, he was a bit rude, but I understand sometimes. Some people ask over and over again, there was another reply from a moderator there that was tersely worded also.

I'm with you on this one, we are having some conflicting information on it, but I suppose the state department might not be the authority to know absolutely if one is needed.

We're just going to shelve it for now.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-16 20:07:00

QUOTE (LvivLovers @ Oct 15 2007, 09:54 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

On Ukrainian exit visas: In that same post mentioned above, I found:

QUOTE

All Ukrainian passports allow the holder to re-enter Ukraine. Until January 1, 1993, separate Ukrainian exit visas were required for travel abroad. All external passports should, by now, be either re-issued or re-registered at VVIR offices or at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Regular passports are valid for five years and those still produced on Soviet passport stock are overstamped with an amendment authorizing the bearer to travel to any country of the world, thus eliminating the exit visa requirement. Persons emigrating from Ukraine normally retain their Ukrainian citizenship.

Effective January 1, 1998, all Ukrainian passports with Soviet Union symbols and red covers (all series and numbers) and official passports with dark blue covers (series “CM”, “KC”, “01” and “02”) will no longer be valid for travel abroad.

Reciprocity Schedule - Updated 6th April 2007,

and more: An exit visa is not necessary for departing the country, but for departure to take place it must be valid.

I think that clears things up.

I read that post also, and asked for his reference on it. I received a rather smart response, but in any case we have decided not to worry about it for now.

So it looks like we don't need to worry about exit visas at all if I am reading this right and it's correct.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-16 06:37:00

Here is some more information on the "Exit Visa" as it is called by Ukrainian Authorities. This is from RU Adventures LINK: http://ruadventures....0;boardseen#new

Quote from a user:

QUOTE

As I noted it is an "Ukranian Exit Visa" it is the Ukraine's requirement for all nationals planning to live outside of Ukraine. Your spouse can and will be questioned when she later returns and then attempts to leave Ukraine to travel back to your country without one.

A long time ago on RWG Doug Salem wrote about how his wife Olga was stopped on 3 visits to Ukraine when she attempted to leave and return to the USA because she did not have the Exit Visa stamp in her Ukraine International Passport! Finally Olga's mother contacted a local official and arranged for her daughter to obtain one with the usual appropriate gifts, etc.

For us it took longer going through normal channels to obtain the Exit Visa than to obtain the Canadian Visa for Lora.

There is however one downside you need to consider it this as well. Your spouse will have to sign off on all existing property rights in Ukraine. That is give up ownership of her flat or house if she has one. Simple to sign over ownership to a relative as this takes care of the problem. Thus not everyone from Ukraine applies for an Exist visa as like I noted it means they loose their local passport and give up their Ukraine property rights. So a lot for you to think about with your Ukranian spouse!

After moving to your country your Ukranian spouse will need to register with the local Ukraine Embassy or Consulate as a Ukranian living abroad in your country.

From the US DOS:

QUOTE

Also, Ukrainians who have immigrated to the U.S. without obtaining the proper exit visa from Ukrainian authorities may be subject to civil or criminal penalties, and will be required to obtain an exit visa before returning to the U.S. For additional information, see the Consular Affairs web site for our Dual Nationality flyer

.

So, it appears that she will have to more or less give her place up to her Brother and lose all rights to the property. The catch from what I read is that this is for "Immigrant" status in the USA. If they are coming over here on Non-Immigrant status (with immigrant intent) does this still apply? I would imagine that once the AOS is completed THEN it is an issue, but not before. Anyone want to chime in on that?

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-12 17:49:00

QUOTE (fwaguy @ Oct 12 2007, 04:00 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (etripke @ Oct 12 2007, 03:58 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (fwaguy @ Oct 12 2007, 03:49 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (etripke @ Oct 12 2007, 03:46 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Any of you that have wives or fiancees who owned their own property (apartment) in Ukraine please post I have a question regarding procedures over there. The issue involves the "Internal" passport (Propiska?) needing to be "stamped" so the departing resident can transfer utilities and water to a family member occupant on departure.

Thanks

Yeah,

We have not done that or at least didn't do that, Sveta has been speaking about this but it sounds like a beaureaucratic nightmare... Momma just went to Kherson to pay the "bills".... E, I want you to lead me on this one.... OK?

Well according to Lena she went to do this today, and was turned back after waiting in line for 2 hours. Her brother is taking over her place, and what I didn't understand is that they are billed by the number of people living in the apartment and the square meter size. She was told she had to go to where they do the residence registration for the internal "passport" and will have to get it stamped there indicating she is or has moved to the states. Her brother can then be listed for the billing on the other stuff. We are talking about sending them "proof" she is not living there after the fact like with a copy of our lease, etc, and the I-94 and hope they'll just do it. It can be done before her departure, it will just take hours of standing in line at two different places.

The old Soviet never dies I guess.

I know, we are paying for utilities for a household of two even though everything is shut off...

That blows. Maybe sending over copies of anything here here that has her name on it, marriage license, and so forth would be enough, you never know. I hate to have Lena go through this BS especially those lines to register are HUGE for the "propiska" (SIC). She waited for over 6 hours the last time she needed something done.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-12 17:11:00

QUOTE (fwaguy @ Oct 12 2007, 03:49 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (etripke @ Oct 12 2007, 03:46 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-12 15:58:00

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-12 15:46:00

QUOTE (fwaguy @ Oct 9 2007, 01:29 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (etripke @ Oct 9 2007, 01:12 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

We will book her flight on KLM as well. We want the Amsterdam connection to O'Hare because that is within decent (<2 1/2 hrs) driving distance for me to pick them up. I'm trying to avoid more than the one flight change once in the states so they don't have to mess with the POE and catching another flight. I wish I had the vacation time to fly over and accompany them, but that was burned up already in 2 previous trips over there.

Have her come to MSP... we are a friendly place....

Too long of drive, besides the bridges aren't safe up there.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-09 19:07:00

QUOTE (LvivLovers @ Oct 9 2007, 12:57 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (Mariya @ Oct 9 2007, 01:32 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (etripke @ Oct 9 2007, 10:00 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Also, what is everyone's experience at booking flights on short notice? Can I assume that it will be cheaper to book a flight at least one week in advance of departure, or would it be better still to book two weeks or more in advance.

Thanks in Advance

As for tickets pricing - check out Expedia site. You can compare prices for Nov and Oct there.
The link is:
expedia.com

my hubby always buys airplane tickets through expedia.com

Just FYI, I bought my tickets directly through NWA but they used their partner KLM. It seemed that I got about the same price as going through Orbitz...Orbitz didn't offer the ability to buy a ticket originating from Ukraine...that's why I went through NWA directly. My roundtrip ticket was about $800. For her ticket 1-way from Kyiv, they wanted $2,500. I asked if I could just get her a roundtrip ticket like mine but just not use the first half. They said no...they would cancel if she didn't show up on the way over. So finally I told them to make a roundtrip ticket starting in Ukraine and then returning later on in the year even though she probably won't use it. That dropped the price down to about $800. Ah...the silly games airlines play. My guess is you can probably get even cheaper tickets...I was too busy working on other things to shop around more. Hope this helps someone.

Oh one more thing. Anyone know a cheap way to ship things to the USA from Ukraine? My wife is an avid reader and doesn't want to leave her books behind! hahaha She's got 100-200 kilograms worth which could get expensive transporting as luggage. She thinks she may have a company that will do it for about $3/kg but am just curious to see if anyone knows a cheaper way. Thanks!

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-09 13:12:00

QUOTE (fwaguy @ Oct 9 2007, 10:16 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (etripke @ Oct 9 2007, 10:00 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

I need a quick opinion here from those who have been through the interview. Is it safe to say that when the Embassy says we have an approved Visa, that we could book a flight 2 weeks from that date? I figure that since she interviews on a Monday, that she'll have the passports back by the end of the following week.

Also, what is everyone's experience at booking flights on short notice? Can I assume that it will be cheaper to book a flight at least one week in advance of departure, or would it be better still to book two weeks or more in advance.

Thanks in Advance

As far as I can tell... All visa approvals for a week are "batched" together and printed and couriered the following Monday. So in a perfect world with a Monday interview approval she should see her visa in 10 days (since Lena is in Kiev I would say 1 day sooner). The courier will only deliver the package to the named addressee on the package so Lena will be "home" stricken until the visa arrives. We had Sveta's package delivered to a friend who we knew would be at work when the package was delivered. This allowed Sveta the opportunity to go and visit her parents and was not "stuck" at home waiting.

As far as tix pricing, late October and early November is a good time to travel. Whatever you do about a tix before the visa is in hand is a risky proposition. I did what you are thinking and I sweated bullets until that package arrived. Lena should try to source her tickets locally and then compare to what you can do yourself.

Thanks I'll do that (check locally and over there). We did stop at a travel agency in August and have some ideas on prices for the two of them, it seemed about the same cost as I would pay here.

So, if Lena has a family member at her place, they will they still deliver and not require just "her" signature? She may be more in the mood for not working during that week anyway, she has things she has to take care of prior to departure.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-09 10:44:00

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-09 10:00:00

QUOTE (fwaguy @ Oct 8 2007, 04:47 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (etripke @ Oct 8 2007, 04:45 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

No, but I certainly prayed alot and have been asking family to do the same. I'll make it a habit to do the spitting when I leave for work tomorrow.

Thanks for the Congrats, we can't wait for this to end and to start our life together.

Better get the house clean... Oh wait, it won't matter, cuz no matter how well you do it it won't be good enough....

Actually I'm moving, so there will be plenty of work for me to do, but I agree, it will probably not be good enough. I have even been told the white glove treatment will given

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-09 09:54:00

QUOTE (John and Luda @ Oct 8 2007, 11:29 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (etripke @ Oct 8 2007, 10:41 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (Mariya @ Oct 5 2007, 10:27 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Our life is like a zebra. After having a black stripe period there will be a white one for sure. so after having some bad luck get ready to meet and welcome your good luck!

You're right. Check my timeline. We're both shocked. Someone must have cancelled and I called at the right time I guess.

Congratulations!!! Did you end up spitting over your left shoulder 3 times? If so, maybe that's what did it.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-08 16:45:00

QUOTE (Mariya @ Oct 5 2007, 10:27 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Our life is like a zebra. After having a black stripe period there will be a white one for sure. so after having some bad luck get ready to meet and welcome your good luck!

You're right. Check my timeline. We're both shocked. Someone must have cancelled and I called at the right time I guess.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-08 10:41:00

QUOTE (fwaguy @ Oct 5 2007, 10:52 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (etripke @ Oct 5 2007, 09:54 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

So, does anyone have any tips on how to lose this cloud of bad luck that seems to follow us everywhere we go?

Normally I would say buck up buddy and grow some skin... but maybe in your case all you need is to grow some hair!!!!

Just because I'm "Follically Challenged" doesn't give you the right.....

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-05 13:19:00

QUOTE (John and Luda @ Oct 5 2007, 10:22 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

QUOTE (etripke @ Oct 5 2007, 09:54 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Ok Gang, I'm going to lament some more.

I just called the call center. Our petition was sent out by NVC on 9/26 after the 5 week delay/processing time. First thing I tried was to use the PIN number that we had purchased in late July when I was in Kyiv. It didn't work. So, I bought a new one and after waiting a couple of minutes, got the operator. I told him that I wanted to schedule an interview appointment and he apologized saying that they were having some sort of "Data Processing" problems and I had to call back "tomorrow". I reminded him that tomorrow is Saturday, and he said to call back on Monday. I then reminded him that Monday is a US Federal Holiday (Colombus Day) and was told that the call center will be open on that day for scheduling interviews (not certain if that is true, but I'll try nonetheless).

So, does anyone have any tips on how to lose this cloud of bad luck that seems to follow us everywhere we go?

You could always try what superstitious Ukrainians supposedly do - turn and spit over your left shoulder 3 times to try and keep bad luck from happening (lol). Seriously, I hope the process goes smoother for you. I just got started, but I anticipate hitting some bumps in the road too. Hopefully none will be two big. GOOD LUCK the rest of the way!

I thought that was only if a black cat crossed in front of you? In any case I'll try it.

I know that we were an exception as far as NVC goes. Most are in and out of there within 9 days. There must have been a near hit on her name or who knows, maybe it was because we filed a congressional. In any case we sure were glad to get the hell out of there. Given the delay at NVC I warned my fiancee to be ready to provide fingerprints at the Embassy because that seems common after delays. I just hope they give the approval on sight, and allow us to get our life going together.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-05 10:35:00

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-05 09:54:00

QUOTE (Cantankerous @ Oct 1 2007, 08:05 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Short version of my question; anyone a Russian or Ukrainian native that is interested in discussing my paying them to help teach me more Russian over the phone? I'm thinking 30 minutes once or twice a week, I'd call you so I would pay for the call, I'd be willing to pay maybe something like $25 a session (PayPal, etc.).

Just been thinking about it and thought I'd throw it out there for some feedback...

Tim,

You may be better served paying for your fiancee to learn English. She'll have to speak it here in the states, and it will be much more convenient for her to find someone to teach her over there rather than you trying to learn over a phone. If you want to learn Russian (where is she from in Ukraine?) check around where you live or find some self study materials. PM me for more information.

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-10-01 09:54:00

QUOTE (twincitiesinc @ Sep 18 2007, 02:17 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Sorry i should clarify, i have not been earning income since jan 5th 2007. Since that date i have been living in sevastopol. I WAS pulling in 100k+ in the states before hand. I am using 2006 and 2007 bank statements, 2006 1040s and i-134. I am also using my father as a co-signer in case they are wondering about employment, but i own my own company so technically im always employed, but not earning at the moment. I have assets and a home. I hope i dont get domicile questions or questions about employment or anything like that regarding my situation. Any thoughts on that stuff????? We have more than enough proofs of relationships, just overkill in our interview binder.

You're going to be fine. Any problems with your financials will be negated by the fact your Father is a co-sponsor. The domicile question I can't speak of, but there are certainly many petitioners who are getting through even while living with their families and just getting out of College. You have a residence in the US, you filed at the correct service center, and there are many in the UK (for example) who have done the same thing you're doing. (I guess I did speak of it after all).

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-09-18 16:23:00

Rob & Tania,

Congrats on your Marriage! May you both have many years of happiness together.

Eric

etripke

Male

Ukraine

2007-09-18 10:23:00

Hola a todos...

The closer I get to one day getting an NOA2, the more questions I have about the rest of the process. I have read the reviews of the US consulate in Guayaquil, but I didn't find good answers to a couple of burning questions:

What questions were people asked at the K1 interview?

How long after the interview did people receive their visa?

Thanks for any help.
Sarah

comanda

Female

Ecuador

2007-09-15 15:38:00

hola a todos,
yo no habia buscado mensajes aqui hace mucho tiempo!

Michelle -- buena suerte con la peticion.

SM&LP -- Vi tu "timeline" - es verdad que ustedes tuvieran que esperar 3 meses desde el NOA2 hasta la entrevista?? me parece mucho tiempo!

Edited by comanda, 26 August 2007 - 10:29 PM.

comanda

Female

Ecuador

2007-08-26 22:28:00

Hola Laura. Mi novio (Johnny) es de Portoviejo. Fuimos a Bahia de Caraquez con Johnny en mayo cuando estaba en Ecuador visitando a él - que hermosa! Yo vivo en Wisconsin. Sí, es la visa K1 que esperamos. Recibí el NOA1 en junio - entonces tenemos mucho tiempo para esperar. Bueno conocerte también.
Sarah

Hola Sarah. Yo soy Laura y mi esposo se llama Marco. Nosotros estamos en los EEUU y estamos esperando el Adjustment of Status I 485. De que ciudad es tu novio? Yo soy de carolina del norte y mi esposo es de Bahia de Caraquez. Nosotros aplicamos la visa K1 en 2005, esa es la visa que tu novio esta esperando?? Bueno conocerte!~ Laura

comanda

Female

Ecuador

2007-07-13 19:51:00