Forum	Title	Content	Member	Sex	Country	Date/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Packet 3, Packet 4	I've looked in the FAQ, but there's little information for the uninitiated on this topic. Could someone explain simply what these two steps are about and how to prepare for them (preferably ahead of time)?	symbiosis	Male	Thailand	2008-06-25 07:04:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	I-129F filer, I'm a naturalized citizen	Hey! Just wondering if anyone has any opinions about this. I'm an I-129F filer who is a naturalized citizen. Just read the article in the Washington Post about Wendy Brown, a fellow member in Baltimore. She said something (someone did) about the fact that people who are born and bred in the US receive responses quicker than immigrants. While I was not born here, I was brought up here from a very young age. Is the fact that I'm naturalized really going to slow down this process? Just curious on opinions. Thanks! I don't have any complaints, yet. Only filed in December.	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-02-20 20:05:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Police certificates	Hi! So I'm confused... the travel.state.gov site says that he needs the Certificado de Antecedentes Policiales... here Gringita says that we need the Certificado de Antecedentes Judiciales! He was able to get the Certificado in his hometown; they're sending it to Lima. Should we be doing this a different way? Help!!!	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-03-16 12:53:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Bumps on the road!!	Yay yay yay! Almost there girl. This is all great news! Wish I was in Lima with you and Gringita! Soon enough. We're all missing meeting by a few weeks!	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-03-21 09:11:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Packet 3 never recieved? But interview already scheduled!	Hi! BUMP to this thread. http://www.visajourn...e...&cty=Moscow Hopefully this Embassy Info page answers your questions.	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-03-26 12:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	approved!!	YEEEESSSSS!!!! Whoo hoo!! Congratulations to you both!	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-03-26 12:03:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	K-1 Visa Approved	Felicitaciones!!! Yay Sam! I'm so glad to hear that you have it now after a little bump in the road. Have a lovely wedding!! Whoo hoo!	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-03-26 12:07:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Approved	Whoo hoo! Yay! I must admit I've also worn a ton of stuff that I bought in Peru since I submitted the application, ha ha! Currently listening to a cd of a band that my man turned me onto!	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-03-29 15:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	K-1 Visa for Peruvian Fiancé	QUOTE (eric_and_teresa @ Mar 29 2008, 11:22 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Hola Suzy! Welcome to VJ You'll find VJers going through your same Consulateon the Latin America, Mexico & The Caribbean Sub-forum Hey, welcome! You can also go to the "Portals" section at the top of the page to find all the threads in relation to peeps who are going through the Lima embassy. On that same page, on the right hand side, you can view a list of all the Peru peeps! I'm now at the interview stage! Whoo hoo! Buena suerte!	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-03-29 15:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Medical exam	QUOTE (Erika&Justin @ Apr 7 2008, 10:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Today i had my medical exam and it was easy she only orden 3 vaccinations it was because im after 27 years if your are behind these years you need more vaccination and you can spend more than S/700.00. Im happy because im 28 years old now i can hide my age Now i need to wait for my result this wednesday and for interview Pray! Pray! Yay chica! I'm so happy to hear that it went so well and that you didn't pay too much. Whoo hoo!	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-04-08 16:27:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	USCIS Approved my K1 - What next?	QUOTE (fwaguy @ Apr 8 2008, 03:23 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Check out the "embassy info" at the top of the page too. Start checking out the Embassy forum too! Great help! Also, there's the portal section that has lots of posts (even some recent ones) on what happens next! Good luck and congratulations! Here's a link to a post that I previously posted a bunch of info on about info for the Embassy... Stuff that you all can start doing now in preparation for the interview... It's all going to happen really fast now! http://www.visajourn...h...=117752&hl= Edited by Shannon and David, 08 April 2008 - 04:24 PM.	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-04-08 16:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Getting married after K-1 approval...	Hi! David and I waited until we had his interview date. Then I started planning like a mad woman! We're getting married on the beach. Small group = 50 people or so. We're doing all the legwork ourselves with the help of my family. Food and the like provided by my family. Evites instead of invitations. Drinking will be held at a bar after the wedding and food on the beach. So, no catering, etc. Paid for a pavilion at a state park. No cost for the bar, we're just showing up with a heads up to the bar for extra servers. That's it! Another party will be held later for my friends where I live. We're going to the town where the majority of my family lives to make it easier on everyone else. Just a few of my friends are going to the wedding itself, my closest ones. Good luck! It's definitely been challenging, but we're almost completely planned now! (See my timeline below for how long I've had to plan. We rec'd our interview date when he rec'd packets 3/4.) I'm really excited, as to be honest, this is the dream wedding that I've always wanted anyway. Besos, Shannon Edited by Shannon and David, 17 April 2008 - 03:42 PM.	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-04-17 15:41:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	K1 Visa Approved!!!	Yes, yes, yes! Yay! So glad to hear that it went well! Whoo hoo for the both of you too!	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-04-15 15:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Visa approved!	Yes, yes, yes! Whoo hooo! I'm soooo glad to hear that it all went well! Not so bad, eh?? Congrats!	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-04-22 22:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Next step completed !!!!!	Felicidades! Great news! Whoo hoo!	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-04-23 21:17:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Visa approved in Lima today!	Thanks! Oh, I added a checklist for all the stuff that I brought with me to the interview in Peru to an old thread/topic. Here's a link... http://www.visajourn...p;#entry1752045 And here's a link to a page that I added a whole bunch of links too as well for help for the interview... http://www.visajourn...h...=117752&hl= Hope this helps for anyone on this phase! Oh, review written for the interview at the Embassy as well. Besos, Shannon	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-04-14 16:07:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Visa approved in Lima today!	Thanks to everyone for all their warm wishes! I'm sooooo excited! We went out in Lima afterwards and danced, danced, danced! Had a couple cervezas. It was definitely the perfect day. I'm going to write a review for what the experience was like on my timeline now so I don't forget too much. I think I may have already forgotten some! Whoops! Next it's on to buying the ticket and checking out what the POE is going to be like. Yay! More stuff to do, ha ha! I'm very excited about our wedding, already have most of it planned out (we started planning as soon as we had our interview date)... Besos to everyone and thank you, thank you, thank you! Muah!!!	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-04-13 17:12:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Visa approved in Lima today!	Hi all! Thanks so much for your help! David and I went to our interview and the visa was approved today! We were only there for an hour and a half and the interview was fine... No problems. I´ll definitely post more on this later, but I just wanted to say thank you to everyone for having me super prepared for the interview! It´s due to all of your help, I swear. David thanks everyone too for their help! Besos, Shannon	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-04-10 13:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	We got the visa!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!	Whoo hoo! Felicitaciones, Shannon	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-06-06 17:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	am approved!	Yay Raquel! Felicidades!	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-07-15 20:18:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	K1 - December Filing	QUOTE (Mark and Hannah @ Jun 24 2008, 08:40 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Thank you. I'm not going to be happy until another week has gone by without hearing anything from the medical - you just never know right *hugs* I hope that you receive your info soon! QUOTE (KandI_usa @ Jun 24 2008, 08:43 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Congrats.....Good to see December filers getting approved........... unfortunately, iam still waiting for my NOA2. Have there been touches? Have you called?? Based on timelines, it looks like you should already have been approved for your NOA2...	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-06-25 12:58:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	K1 - December Filing	Yay Laura and Nick! Congrats!	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-06-23 12:27:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	K1 - December Filing	Hello December peeps! Looks like it's finally starting to happen for CSC people, thank goodness! So glad to hear it. You are all still in my thoughts! Good luck to everyone and congrats to all of you who finally have NOA2s and interview dates. Besos, Shannon	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-06-15 19:41:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	K1 - December Filing	QUOTE (tj3467 @ Apr 18 2008, 09:34 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> VISA approved!!!! 17 April 2008. She said they were very kind and had no problems. Questions were basic. I think a solid document package is the key. Thanks to this website and the many, many postings that I have read made this possible. And without having to pay counsel. I wish the best of luck to everyone - there have been some tough days but I know there are others that are waiting longer than I have. Stay resolute. I will keep participating in this community because I hope I can contribute something of value - that which has been / will be so valuable to me. Am waiting now for 1st week in May arrival. Boy do I have a lot of painting and cleaning to do before then Kind regards. tj&alena Yay! I feel ya on the use of this site! I completely agree that being organized was the key and having all documentation. David too is arriving the 1st week of May! Whoo hoo! Lots of cleaning, ha ha! Have fun! Congratulations!	Shannon and David	Female	Peru	2008-04-18 19:21:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Finally a Light at Last!!!	Great News, Good to hear, should make for a great Holiday Gift.	DavidEvgeniya	Male	Russia	2007-12-06 12:25:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	QUOTE (StillThePrettiest @ Sep 26 2007, 10:37 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> I'd love to work there for a while; it would drive me nuts after a bit, but for a couple of months I'd love it... I'm a real systems and processes person, so that would work, and the added spur of reuniting people with their loved ones would be great of course, the reality is that it's probably a very dispiriting job... high workloads aside, they probably see a lot of visa fraud - which sort of goes over our heads in here because most people wouldn't bother joining a website for support on something that's a lie anyway - and get very jaded... you'd probably end up suspecting everyone Please go and apply, you can't do any worse than they are right now. This is just page one of the current job openings there. Closing Job Title Agency Location Salary 9/26/2007 CIS CLERK (OA) Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-CO-DENVER, CO 27,487.00+ 9/26/2007 MISSION SUPPORT ASSISTANT (OA) Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-CO-DENVER, CO 30,753.00+ 9/27/2007 CIS CLERK Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-MN-BLOOMINGTON, MN 27,063.00+ 9/27/2007 CIS CLERK (OA) Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-MN-DULUTH, MN 25,797.00+ 9/27/2007 IMMIGRATION INFORMATION OFFICER Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-MD-BALTIMORE, MD 28,862.00+ 9/27/2007 MAIL & FILE CLERK (OA) Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-CO-DENVER, CO 27,487.00+ 9/28/2007 ADJUDICATION OFFICER (ASCM) Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-TX-LAREDO, TX 52,912.00+ 9/28/2007 ADJUDICATIONS OFFICER (APPLICATIONS SUPPORT CENTER MANAGER) Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-MD-BALTIMORE, MD 66,767.00+ 9/28/2007 SUPERVISORY ADJUDICATIONS OFFICER Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-NE-LINCOLN, NE 75,414.00+ 9/28/2007 SUPERVISORY CIS CLERK (OA) Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-CA-SAN FRANCISCO, CA 41,367.00+ 9/28/2007 SUPERVISORY IMMIGRATION INFORMATION OFFICER Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-NY-BUFFALO, NY 44,318.00+ 10/1/2007 SENIOR ADJUDICATIONS OFFICER (TEMPORARY) Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-MD-BALTIMORE, MD 79,397.00+ 10/1/2007 SUPERVISORY ADJUDICATIONS OFFICER Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-CO-DENVER, CO 80,355.00+ 10/1/2007 SUPERVISORY CIS CLERK (TEMPORARY) Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-VT-ST. ALBANS and ESSEX, VT 32,172.00+ 10/1/2007 SUPERVISORY IMMIGRATION INFORMATION OFFICER Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-TN-MEMPHIS, TN 48,159.00+ 10/1/2007 SUPERVISORY MANAGEMENT & PROGRAM ANALYST Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-MO-LEE'S SUMMIT, MO 63,417.00+ 10/2/2007 IMMIGRATION INFORMATION OFFICER Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-VA-FAIRFAX, VA 33,872.00+ 10/2/2007 IMMIGRATION INFORMATION OFFICER Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-MO-LEE'S SUMMIT, MO 28,862.00+ 10/2/2007 IMMIGRATION INFORMATION OFFICER Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-DC-WASHINGTON, DC 110,363.00+ 10/3/2007 ADJUDICATION OFFICER Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-DC-WASHINGTON, DC 66,767.00+ 10/3/2007 ADJUDICATION OFFICER Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-DC-WASHINGTON, DC 66,767.00+ 10/3/2007 District Director, Field Services Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-IL-Chicago Metro area 111,676.00+ 10/3/2007 IMMIGRATION INFORMATION OFFICER Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services US-AZ-PHOENIX, AZ 29,010.00+	U.S. Wendy	Female	Albania	2007-09-26 10:48:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	QUOTE (thejoz @ Sep 24 2007, 01:38 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> If anyone still cares, I am sending out 4 letters today. Three to the government, one to MSNBC. Let's all keep writing, cause the more that they get, they will have no choice but to take notice. I care!!!!!! Thank you for taking action!!!! As for those of you ready to stage some sort of protest or march (you warm my heart). Stay tuned; I'll look into the pros and cons of doing something like this but we really need at least 1000 people..................... and I don't think we'd have that support here on VJ. It's sad, but true.	U.S. Wendy	Female	Albania	2007-09-24 12:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Yes, Bill. This is what I'm talking about; it's shocking, really. That's why I keep pushing so hard for some action because there are NO guarantees for anyone here. I mean, I understand that you can't plan a wedding AND you might even end up having your first child, BEFORE USCIS and DOS decide to make it possible for you to be reunited with your SO.....but what really burns me is when they play these little games-->political muscle flexing with little or no regard to the effect that this has on the lives of their customers. Now, they got what they wanted-->GET OUR DAM* PETITIONS PROCESSED!!!!! The H-1B Visa people were marching in Washington last week. You know where I'm going with this........................ B)--> QUOTE(Bill B @ Sep 23 2007, 08:09 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Have you read this post? http://www.visajourn...showtopic=88967[/quote] 0 NOA 2: 04-02-2008-->SECOND Petition approved 07-31-08- Entered the U.S. 09-17-08- Married 10-29-08: File AOS, EAD, AP 01-15-09: EAD Approved 02-26-09: Biometrics Appt. 03-07-09: EAD card received via mail 03-20-09: AOS approved 03-28-09: Greencard arrives via mail Back to top	U.S. Wendy	Female	Albania	2007-09-24 06:00:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Good morning. It's easy, Just go here--> http://www.dhs.gov/x...1038701035.shtm I just e-mailed my request to participate and they e-mailed an approval in a couple of days. Won't have another one for a month or so, but I'd encourage you to participate. Hopefully, you have your NOA 2 by then, but if not, there are still some issues and concerns with USCIS that will continue to need to be addressed throughout this process. Petition approval is just the start of this LONG journey. QUOTE (janaus @ Sep 21 2007, 12:29 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Bottom line is that he is aware of the problems at USCIS, but unfortunately can't do much about it. We pretty much have to target the govt./congress with this and will have to start with the senators. Sending letters to the media is a good idea-some ppl have already done that from VJ. Where was this website for the Ombudsman and how do u get into the teleconference?	U.S. Wendy	Female	Albania	2007-09-22 06:16:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	He's sorely missed, but he's doing what we all want to do-->Bringing his SO home. I can't begrudge him that, but I am VERY jealous. QUOTE (BYRON-LEIDY @ Sep 20 2007, 06:56 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Hey , doesnt anyone miss bszoom and his lists and support????	U.S. Wendy	Female	Albania	2007-09-20 18:24:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Oh and another important point, the Ombudsman is aware that a lot of people are scared to speak out for fear of reprisal. He assures you that if he is becomes aware of this, it will be dealt with. He can't help anyone if people are afraid to speak up. He talked about Attorneys who have asked him to keep their names out of any briefs, reports or publications when they make complaints. He was REAL serious about this issue. USCIS officials listened in on the call because they wanted to hear the feedback, first hand.	U.S. Wendy	Female	Albania	2007-09-20 17:56:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	SWEET!!!! Keep up the momentum. I participated in a teleconference with the Ombudsman today and just let me tell you, this guy is sharp!!! He has a lot of compassion about the issues affecting ALL of us. Most of the participants were talking about Employment-Based Visa issues, so I would STRONGLY encourage you ALL to go to the website and see what the topic is for next month and TRY and participate. Those guys are organized and monopolized A LOT of his time. Our Family-Based Petitions are just as important IMHO!!!! So be there and be heard!!! There were employers, political officials and average 'joes' like you and I voicing their concerns. This month the topic was INTERACTION WITH USCIS at local service centers. I wanted to stay on topic so I just talked about the (2) two INFOPASS appointments that I had that were completely useless and how the officers were rude, knew less than I did, refused to let me see a supervisor, how they put me off and how they gave me misinformation. Even after I left feedback in their suggestion box and asked them to contact me, they did not. He was appalled. For the record: The Ombudsman knows all about the Frontlog, backlog, call center issues, lack of receipt notices, double and triple charging for repeatedly submitted applications (due to backlog), rude and often untrained staff, etc. The problem is this: Congress has NOT given him the authority to FORCE change. He can only ask for a formal investigation and make recommendations and keep publishing the results. There were some good suggestions made, such as-->instead of sending RFE's that take forever to sort out, why can't the adjudicator call you and say, "hey, you forgot to sign your check, send us a new one" or "hey, you didn't sign your application" or "we need you to send in more proof....." Mailing back and forth is not efficient or effective. Also, USCIS' computer programs are from the 70's and 80's and that's why they can't give us more access to more specific types of information about our cases. They SHOULD fix this, but most of us will have our SO's here LONG before they ever do that. Overall, it was enlightening and informative. Hope this helps your understanding but,.....................KEEP THE LETTERS AND FAXES AND E-MAILS GOING!!!! Thanks again, Wendy QUOTE (babybluesusie @ Sep 20 2007, 03:50 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> i just finished writing my 8 letters...i wrote two letters to the offices of both of my Senators (Schumer and Clinton---DC and NYC District Offices), and two to Congressman Nadler (also DC & NYC District Offices)..i also wrote one to the USCIS Ombudsman, as well as the NYC Public Advocate who can be found at the following address: Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum 1 Centre Street, 15th Floor New York, NY 10007 im not sure if all cities have public advocates, but i know that the really large cities do...so if you live in NYC or LA, or something in that general (huge city) area, look it up and write to that person as well! yay :skips away to the mailbox:	U.S. Wendy	Female	Albania	2007-09-20 17:31:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Before I go to bed I wanted to share this and give the topic a BUMP This is from the Ombudsman today-->and I quote "Under the Homeland Security Act of 2002, it is my office’s statutory mission to assist USCIS customers, to identify problem areas in the immigration process, and to propose changes to the administrative practices of USCIS. I believe that process change recommendations from individuals like you are the best source for identifying systemic problems in the immigration benefits process. My office will consider your suggestions as we develop recommendations to improve USCIS’ practices and procedures." That's good enough for me!!!! Ahhhhhhhhh, I feel better already.	U.S. Wendy	Female	Albania	2007-09-19 21:39:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Thank Goodness there is some good news!!!! My congratulations to all who FINALLY have some word about their petitions. I don't know why, but I feel like I need to apologize about all the 'fireworks' on the other thread. I expected some backlash, but nothing like that! I'm soooo sorry if anyone had their feelings hurt. I, for one, was REALLY disturbed by the mean-spirited attacks, but....what can you do? I'm going to take the 'high road' on this one. There are a whole host of explainations in the DSM-IV. Anyhoo? Anyone have any feedback from your letters and e-mails? I got all of mine out today. The Ombudsman sent a response to me. I won't go into any detail here........I'm thinking that any minute now, men in black suits are going to show up at my door. ha ha!!! Everyone have a GREAT night!!!!	U.S. Wendy	Female	Albania	2007-09-19 17:51:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	B)--> QUOTE(Bill B @ Sep 19 2007, 11:56 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> US Wendy and all interested in attempting to improve the service: I just sent 5 letters to the following addresses. I slightly modified the letter for each one if you are interested in a particular one just let me know and I can tell you my edited version for that indivdual. The White House Attn: President Bush Washington, D.C. 20500 Department of Homeland Security Inspector General Attn: Mr. Richard Skinner Washington, DC 20528 U.S. Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Attn: Dr. Emilio T. Gonzalez, Director U.S. Department of Homeland Security Washington, D.C. 20528 Mr. Alfonso Aguilar Chief of the Office of Citizenship 8201 Peters Road, Suite 1000 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33324 One CNN Center PO Box 105366 Attn: Senior Producer - Ms. Jennifer Avellino Atlanta, GA 30348[/quote] GREAT!!! CNN is a good resource. I'll be sending a letter to them as well. Thanks!!!! Did you post this at the other thread also?-->let everyone see our hard work. 0 NOA 2: 04-02-2008-->SECOND Petition approved 07-31-08- Entered the U.S. 09-17-08- Married 10-29-08: File AOS, EAD, AP 01-15-09: EAD Approved 02-26-09: Biometrics Appt. 03-07-09: EAD card received via mail 03-20-09: AOS approved 03-28-09: Greencard arrives via mail Back to top	U.S. Wendy	Female	Albania	2007-09-19 11:36:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Thanks for the support, keep it coming and remember to post your action at the other thread to keep it alive AND let everyone know there is strength in numbers. There are some naysayers and 'trolls' weighing in on the issue, but remember, they are just keeping the thread alive, so let them have their say-->but educate them as well. Most of them had their petitions approved VERY quickly!!!! I need you to cover my back over there About news media-->do whatever and contact whoever you can. If you find a way to get to someone or have some e-mail at NYTimes, maybe the editor-->PLEASE LET EVERYONE KNOW. When I speak to the reporter at Washington Post, I'll let you know what she says. Also, we need all the help we can get from those filing at CSC, they weren't here for the meat of the discussion, so let them know and ask for their support. Even though few of you are seeing light at the end of the tunnel, don't abandon the rest of us. We NEED YOU!!! LOVE THE DEDICATION....DON'T give up on this......persistence is KEY!!!	U.S. Wendy	Female	Albania	2007-09-19 07:04:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	OKAY, LET'S GET STARTED: Let's start dropping letters NOW and continue for the next seven days. Please spread the word. Only a LARGE number will make an impact. Here is the link for your Congressman and Representative: Mail, fax and e-mail the letter. http://www.visi.com/juan/congress/ BELOW IS WHAT I'M SENDING TO USCIS: 1- make sure you change the name from Gonzalez to Aguilar in the last few paragraphs 2- tailor the same letter to your congressman and representative 3- choose a media outlet and tailor the letter to their attention (I have the ear of a reporter at the Washington Post and I'm trying to get Haberman from NY Times). Send a letter to anyone who you think will listen. 4- don't forget to send it to the obmudman at DHS-->cisombudsman@dhs.gov Mailing Address: Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman ATTN: Recommendations United States Department of Homeland Security Mail Stop 1225 Washington, D.C. 20528-1225 5- For all you 'naysayers' if this doesn't work, we'll plans something more effective. 6- I'm going to REPOST as a new topic, please start to leave your responses there, ie.-->"I sent a letter to............." Mr. Alfonso Aguilar Chief of the Office of Citizenship 8201 Peters Road, Suite 1000 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33324 USA Name Street Address Apt (if applicable) City, State Zip Phone September , 2007 U.S. Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Attn: Dr. Emilio T. Gonzalez, Director U.S. Department of Homeland Security Washington, D.C. 20528 Dear Dr. Gonzalez: I am one of many United States Citizens perplexed by the extensive delays in the processing of K-1 and K-3 visas at USCIS all service centers. When I began this process, I was pleased to find that our application would be processed through the service centers quickly and efficiently. Since April onward of this year, this has not been the case. We are members of an on-line community who share information and experiences related to the immigration of our loved ones. We have been closely following the changes that USCIS has undergone, including a substantial rate increase in the fees associated with processing of applications and petitions. While we understand the need for fee increases and some restructuring at USCIS (training, hiring additional staff, prioritizing the processing of applications, etc.) to create a more efficient and customer friendly organization/agency, there are several issues of concern shared by many of us that we would like addressed as soon as possible. It is obvious to us that especially since April 2007, things at USCIS appear to have gotten worse instead of better. For example, at the Vermont Service Center, the average time for our community members to get their K1 VISA NOA 2 has gone from less than 30 days in May 2007 to over 100 days now. Some of our concerns include: 1.) Significant delays in the processing of petitions. Many of us who filed in May through the date of this letter are noticing that an extremely small number of petitions have been processed/approved. Many of our community members are close to the 120 day mark (At CSC, past the 6-month quoted timeframe) in waiting for a decision on our petition. Some of us are receiving RFE’s long after NOA 1, thereby re-starting the clock. 2.) Many of our members have not received a notice of receipt (NOA 1), even though the On-line Case Status confirms the receipt of our applications. 3.) Information provided by your agency’s out-sourced call center employees is often misleading, incorrect or incomplete. 4.) We feel it is entirely inappropriate to prioritize WORK visa applications over Family-Based, Non-Immigrant Petitions. Dr. Gonzalez, we understand that Immigration Benefits are a privilege and not a right, but as a United States citizens, we deserve accurate information AND the opportunity to have our concerns addressed by knowledgeable officials who can give us FACTS (not in-accurate time estimates and scripted misinformation designed to appease nervous and sad callers). We also understand the need for security checks, as we are aware of our national security issues, but we do not believe this is the source of the most recent delays. Only the truth and some swift action on the part of USCIS can alleviate some of the stress associated with this process. Our lives, along with our loved ones abroad, are on hold and we have no idea when this first part of the immigration process will conclude. The wait for a petition to reach NVC, then the appropriate Embassy and, finally, the attendance of the beneficiary at scheduled interview can add an additional 3 – 12 months to an already excruciatingly slow process. The USCIS needs to set a reasonable goal of 90 days and/or have expedited processing available for K1/K3 VISA applicants. The strain of this process (both financial and emotional) is taking a serious toll on the health and well-being of many US law abiding citizen’s who are trying to follow the laws to bring their loved ones to the US by legal means. Our frustration level with USCIS' inability or unwillingness to ease/improve this process is reaching a critical point. We, as a collective, have some expectations which include: 1.) A formal response to our concerns, 2.) Improved processing time for petitions, we believe the USCIS goal timeframe of 6 months to process a K1/3 VISA at the service centers is inadequate for our needs. As with any company, if the 90-day standard cannot be met with good management and talented professionals, then the organization should increase staff or streamline processes, 3.) Accurate and detailed information from your customer service representatives and, 4,) The immediate issue of NOA1 hardcopy receipts for all received petitions. We respectfully request your immediate involvement to drastically improve this process. Thank you very much for your time in reading our letter and we sincerely hope you can initiate immediate and long lasting improvements in this aspect of USCIS. Very respectfully, XXXXXX X. XXXXXX	U.S. Wendy	Female	Albania	2007-09-18 18:21:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	QUOTE (Igor&Elina @ Sep 18 2007, 02:20 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Well, the CSC has just now officially slipped past the 6 months goal. The processing times webpage for CSC now lists March 15th. All the more reason for this effort. Good luck to us all, we'll need it. Sorry for the CSC folks, but this just strengthens our argument. Bill, your revision of my letter is perfect. I like adding the part about NVC and the embassy because the approval stage at USCIS is just the beginning!!! The other part of the process can add 6-12 months to the process. GREAT job. I made some other changes......of course this could on forever so I suggest you each use whatever you are comfortable with--> 1.) I think the letter is ready to go-->and as I said, IMHO it's okay to make minor changes specific to your set of circumstances ie. identifying a particular service center and quoting some stats-->just be mindful that they will probably say that those numbers are only representative of those of us here at VJ. 2.) CCing the Ombudsman is a good idea too. He's well aware of the delays, but in his report talked about USCIS working on the backlog and having some success with that....BUT that was before this most recent set of delays so I think he needs to be made aware. 3.) I don't know how we'd get everyone's signature on one single document.....if there is and IT expert, please come forward.......still some of you on here might not be comfortable with sharing too much personal information, so this could be tricky. IF WE CAN'T GET AN ELECTRONIC SIGNATURE THING GOING, you may opt for suggestion #1. Also, if we all hang together, no one can be hung separately, so I wouldn't worry about this affecting your individual cases, particularly if the media is aware of our efforts. 4.) I think if we all concentrate on 1-letter to Dr. Gonzales, 1-letter to Alfonso Aguilar 1-letter to the Ombudsman, 1-letter to a large media organization and 1-letter to our local elected Senator (and/or Representative) from our state, this could make the impact we'd like. That's, what? $2.00 in postage....the H1-B visa folks bought flowers that cost a lot more. We can flood their mailboxes and e-mail. Did I miss anyone? Oh, we need to agree on a date to start. 4.) The letter to the media should probably be of a different format, but still outline our major concerns. Anyone up for altering the existing letter for a Media outlet? Mr. Alfonso Aguilar Chief of the Office of Citizenship 8201 Peters Road, Suite 1000 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33324 USA Suggested edited version follows: Name Street Address Apt (if applicable) City, State Zip Phone September 17, 2007 U.S. Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Attn: Dr. Emilio T. Gonzalez, Director U.S. Department of Homeland Security Washington, D.C. 20528 Dear Dr. Gonzalez: We are numerous of many United States Citizens perplexed by the extensive delays in processing of K-1 and K-3 visas at USCIS’ service centers. I am one of many United States Citizens perplexed by the extensive delays in the processing of K-1 and K-3 visas at USCIS’ Vermont Service center. When we began this process we were pleased to find that our application would be processed through the service centers quickly and efficiently. Since April June onward of this year, this has not been the case. We are members of an on-line community who share information and experiences related to immigration of our loved ones. We have been closely following the changes that USCIS has undergone, including a substantial rate increase in the fees associated with processing of applications and petitions. While we understand the need for fee increases and some restructuring at USCIS (training, hiring additional staff, prioritizing the processing of applications, etc.) to create a more efficient and customer friendly organization/agency, there are several issues of concern shared by many of us that we would like improved as soon as possible. It is obvious to us that especially since April June 2007, things at USCIS appear to have gotten worse instead of better. For example, at the Vermont Service Center, the average time for our community members to get their K1 VISA NOA 2 has gone from less than 30 days in May 2007 to over 100 days now. Some of our concerns include: 1.) Significant delays in the processing of petitions. Many of us who filed in May through the date of this letter are noticing that an extremely small number of petitions have been processed/approved. Many of our community members are close to the 120 day mark (At CSC, past the 6-month quoted timeframe) in waiting for a decision on our petition. Some of us are receiving RFE’s long after NOA 1, thereby re-starting the clock. 2.) Many of our members have not received a notice of receipt (NOA 1), even though the On-line Case Status confirms the receipt of our applications. 3.) Information provided by your agency’s out-sourced call center employees is often misleading, incorrect or incomplete. 4.) We feel it is entirely inappropriate to prioritize WORK visa applications over Family-Based, Non-Immigrant Petitions. Dr. Gonzalez, we understand that Immigration Benefits are a privilege and not a right, but as a United States citizen, we deserve accurate information AND the opportunity to have our concerns addressed by knowledgeable officials who can give us FACTS (not in-accurate time estimates and scripted misinformation designed to appease nervous and sad callers). We also understand the need for security checks, as we are aware of our national security issues, but we do not believe this is the source of the most recent delays. Only the truth and some swift action on the part of USCIS can alleviate some of the stress associated with this process. Our lives, along with our loved ones abroad, are on hold and we have no idea when this first part of the immigration process will conclude. The wait for a petition to reach NVC, then the appropriate Embassy and, finally, the attendance of the beneficiary at scheduled interview can add an additional 3 – 12 months to an already excruciatingly slow process. or-->This long period at the service centers coupled with processing times at the National VISA Processing Center and then the respective US Embassy is in need of much improvement. The National VISA Processing Center has their time down to less than a month and often less than a week. Most US Embassies have their processing times down to 2 months or so. The USCIS needs to set a reasonable goal of 90 days and/or have expedited processing available for K1/K3 VISA applicants. The strain of this process (both financial and emotional) is taking a serious toll on the health and well-being of many US law abiding citizen’s who are trying to follow the laws to bring their loved ones to the US by legal means. Our frustration level with USCIS' inability or unwillingness to ease/improve this process is reaching a critical point. We, as a collective, have some expectations which include: 1.) A formal response to our concerns, 2.) Improved processing time for petitions, we feel the USCIS goal timeframe of 6 months to process a K1/3 VISA at the service centers is inadequate for our needs. As with any company, if the 90-day standard cannot be met with good management and talented professionals, then the organization should increase staff or streamline processes, 3.) Accurate and detailed information from your customer service representatives and, 4,) The immediate issue of NOA1 hardcopy receipts for all received petitions. We respectfully request your immediate involvement to drastically improve this process. Thank you very much for your time in reading our letter and we sincerely hope you can initiate immediate and long lasting improvements in this aspect of USCIS. Very respectfully, XXXXXX X. XXXXXX I'm off to work, but I'm eager to see what you Busy Bees are up to here today. Have a GREAT day....I know I will. I'm truly inspired. Thank you all for your kind words and willingness to contribute.	U.S. Wendy	Female	Albania	2007-09-18 07:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Great, I appreciate all of the feedback. I think each night i'll try and compile a list of suggestions. Not sure how we can agree on what needs to be changed though. I'll give it one week for everyone to see and then start a new thread to finalize the letter and our media campaign. So far, 1.) Take out the VSC part and make it apply to all service centers. 2.) Take out the statement about 90 days, since USCIS is quoting 6-months to process apps. 3.) Clearly state our expectations: we want INFORMATION in general; not about individual cases, we want the Service Center to provide us with accurate updates and information. 4.) Make the letter a form of a petition with many signatures. ANY DISAGREEMENT WITH THE ABOVE? News Contacts: 1.) Boston area, Hank Phillipi Ryan Keep the suggestions coming AND the news contacts you want to include. Getting your Senator and Rep addresses should be fairly easy. Will someone work on a list of high ranking officials at DHS/USCIS?	U.S. Wendy	Female	Albania	2007-09-17 19:21:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	I AM SOOOOOOOOO VERY PROUD TO FIND PEOPLE WILLING TO STAND UP TO DO SOMETHING NOW. 1.) Media attention is the BEST idea......but, I wrote to CBS and Oprah and a few other outfits, but no response. Maybe my one letter didn't do the trick. Let's compile a list of reputable news people to contact. 2.) Postal letters and e-mail and faxes all at once is what I propose-->to USCIS, DHS and our Senators. Here is a draft of the letter I started; don't know where "Mrs." is......but, I appreciate any and all feedback, constructive feedback. We should finalize something soon though. Thanks, W Name Street Address Apt (if applicable) City, State Zip Phone September 17, 2007 U.S. Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Vermont Service Center 75 Lower Welden St. Saint Albans, Vermont 05479 Attn: Dr. Emilio T. Gonzalez, Director Dear Dr. Gonzalez: I am one of many United States Citizens perplexed by the extensive delays in processing of K-1 and K-3 visas at USCIS’ Vermont Service center. When I began this process I was pleased to find that my application would be processed through the Vermont Service center as I had heard that this particular center processes petitions quickly and efficiently. Lately, this had not been the case. I am a member of an on-line community whose members share information and experiences related to immigration. We have been closely following the changes that USCIS has undergone, including a substantial rate increase in the fees associated with processing of applications and petitions. While I understand the need for fee increases and some restructuring at USCIS (training prioritizing the processing of applications and not others, etc.) to create a more efficient and customer friendly organization/agency, there are several issues of concern shared by many of us that we would like addressed. It is obvious to us that since June 2007, things at USCIS appear to have gotten worse instead of better. My concerns include: 1.) Significant delays in the processing of petitions. Many of us who filed in June (to this present date) are noticing that a VERY small number of petitions have been approved. Many of us are close to the 90 day mark in waiting for a decision on our petition. Some of us are receiving RFE’s long after NOA 1, thereby re-starting the clock. According to data compiled over the past few years, VSC processes K-1’s in an average of ____ days and K-3’s in an average of ___ days. 2.) Many of us have not received a notice of receipt (NOA 1), even though the On-line Case Status confirms the receipt of our applications. 3.) Information provided by your out-sourced call center employees is often misleading, incorrect or incomplete. 4.) Prioritizing WORK visa applications over Family-Based, Non-Immigrant Petitions Dr. Gonzalez, I understand that Immigration Benefits are a privilege and not a right, but as a United States citizen, I deserve accurate information AND the opportunity to have my concerns addressed by an knowledgable official who can give me the FACTS (not in-accurate time estimates and scripted misinformation designed to appease nervous callers). Only the truth and some swift action on the part of USCIS can alleviate some of the stress associated with this process. My life is on hold at the moment as I am separated from my loved one and I have no idea when this first part of the immigration process will conclude. The strain of this process (financial and emotional) is taking a heavy toll on my well-being. My frustration level with USCIS' inability or unwillingness to ease this process is reaching a critical point. ?something here about our expectations re: an answer and some sort of formal response. We can tailor this letter for Senators, etc. and do a mass mailing/fax and e-mail campaign. What do you think? Too emotional, not personal enough?	U.S. Wendy	Female	Albania	2007-09-17 16:20:00