ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
PhilippinesWE ARE APPROVED
Congrats and enjoy!!
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-07-31 21:32:00
PhilippinesAPPROVED! VISA IN WAITING!
Congrats :thumbs: :dance:
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-08-02 08:16:00
PhilippinesMedical & Interview Schedules

hi guys..

just want to know, when did you get your medical & interview schedules?
is it during the time when the papers are in NVC? or
when papers arrive in USEmbassy Manila?

This is irregardless if its email notice or thru telephone call..


regards,
alexandra


We got ours after our case was sent to the USME around the middle of May. I was checking the link where you can put your case number in and then one day it appeared. Of course this link is often down. The packet 4 was received in June 23 so we knew our dates already.

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-08-02 22:34:00
PhilippinesInterview done but on AR

Hello Charlie. I went with MJ and another friend of ours, Aisyl, during the interview. I thought she looks familiar and when she mentions about her fiance being active in VJ, then it occured to me that this must be BusyCharlie's fiancee, hehehe. What a small world! Anyway, yeah, I can see how hard that has been for MJ. I can see in her eyes how upset she was while we were filling out our Delbros Delivery Form. But I am so glad about the sudden turn of events. Good thing the PC arrived now. Goodluck to you and MJ! I hope your case will be lifted out of AR real soon! :thumbs:


Hi 2hearts,
I really tried to prepare her about not having the PC yet. I stressed to her about concentrating on having a good interview which she did and then if we have to wait for the PC then that is what we have to do but wow, she was really upset when she called me. We got lucky that it arrived at home while at her interview, I guess that is luck but I'm still not sure. Too bad it didn't arrive two days sooner. She mentioned that she met someone that knew of me on VJ. She flew back to Manila yesterday and dropped off the PC and her passport so it should be soon. She is flying back right now.

Thanks for the nice email and good luck with the AOS.

Take Care,
Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-08-09 21:21:00
PhilippinesInterview done but on AR

Hello busycharlie!

Would you mind if i asked some questions on you regarding about the police clearance or they call that PC since i read about your experience and noticed about your POLiCE CLEARANCE! All is my understanding that you been requested personally to JAPAN COUNTRY were you work with before ! I been working also overseas but not in japan since 1997 to 1998 and 1999 to 2002 and the last i been travelled and worked with Apri 12,2006 to february ,10 2007 what i did is i'll just take my vacation and i did not coming back overseas for worked , It means i break my contract i did not finished the 2 years contract that i sign i'll just finish 10 months instead of 2 years.I'll make a big decission to quit my career overseas just to start and to apply here in the philippines to process the K1 fiancee visa application.

Do you think do i need to start and move my Police clearance also ? I do appreciated if you give me some idea regarding this matter thank you so much...



Hello busycharlie!

Would you mind if i asked some questions on you regarding about the police clearance or they call that PC since i read about your experience and noticed about your POLiCE CLEARANCE! All is my understanding that you been requested personally to JAPAN COUNTRY were you work with before ! I been working also overseas but not in japan since 1997 to 1998 and 1999 to 2002 and the last i been travelled and worked with Apri 12,2006 to february ,10 2007 what i did is i'll just take my vacation and i did not coming back overseas for worked , It means i break my contract i did not finished the 2 years contract that i sign i'll just finish 10 months instead of 2 years.I'll make a big decission to quit my career overseas just to start and to apply here in the philippines to process the K1 fiancee visa application.

Do you think do i need to start and move my Police clearance also ? I do appreciated if you give me some idea regarding this matter thank you so much...


hi pineapple,

saw this message & kinda in the mood of posting replies..hehehe

anyway, i worked in Middle East from July 2005 - July 2007, before I return to Philippines I secured my Police Clearance in that country. To show that I had a clean record. This kind of paper is clearly specified in the requirements of US Visa Application.

YOu mentioned there that you were working overseas for quite long time. If you will check the form G 325A- Biographic Information, it requires the details of applicant's residence for the last 5 years. As well as the applicant's employment record for the last 5 years. Meaning, they are highly concern in this period and Police Clearance for that last 5 years (overseas employees) will be a good reference for your moral record. Employment certificates might also be a good back-up reference.

To make sure of this..you can check Visa Guidelines or refer to USCIS.

I hope this enlighten you in some way..


regards,
alexandra


Hi Pineapple,
Alexandra has it correct. Just check the visa guidelines which are post on the USME site. Try this link http://travel.state....ocity/index.htm

Thanks Alexandra for answering.

Good Luck,

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-08-09 08:20:00
PhilippinesInterview done but on AR
MJ had her interview last Friday August 3rd and everything went great except for the one thing we expected and that was to be put on AR about not having her Japanese PC. She had the receipt but as expected that was not enough. It takes 2-3 months to get the PC from Japan and considering the packet arrives about a month early there is no way to get the PC in time. Luckily though we found out about the PC requirement before the packet arrived so MJ went to Davao on June 6th to request her PC. MJ said the interview was very easy and they only asked about 5-6 questions. The looked at some pics, her ring and the guy was going to request her to sing something in Japanese but he didn't want everyone to start staring at them. She was ready to sing as I warned her about this as I read about this happening on a post here on VJ. She has great voice and I'm sure everyone would have thought what the heck is going on over there, lol. They only looked at and took some of the required documents. They didn't look at my employment letter, pay stubs, bank statements or even the bank letter. like everyone says on VJ, it is better to have too much than not enough.

Though MJ was disappointed even though I tried to tell her to prepare herself to be put on AR it still bothered her greatly. I gave as much support over the phone as possible but she was more upset than I thought she would be. In her mind she thought I would blame her but it finally sunk in that she had a good interview and only needed the PC and everything would be done.

When she got home on Saturday she found out that the Japanese Consulate had called her home while she was in Manila for her interview because her PC had arrived. She was so happy when I talked to her on the phone. It was a complete turn around on how she felt last Friday. If only they would have called on August 1st in the morning as this would have given MJ just enough time to get to Davao and back home for her trip to Manila. Davao is 4 hours from her home so it is an all day adventure.

So the good news is MJ will return to the Embassy next Thursday August 9th and that will put an end to the final requirement. :thumbs: :dance: We can mail the PC but we both agreed for her to go back and hand deliver it herself to them.

Hopefully she will be here by or before the end of August.


Good Luck to all,

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-08-05 14:45:00
PhilippinesWe got our Approval today!

Thanks to everyone Girly was approved today for her visa. No problems at all only took a few of our papers and said congratulations! :thumbs: :dance: :thumbs:


Congrats and good luck with the AOS.
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-08-10 08:18:00
Philippinesvisa in hand at exactly 4pm
Congrats and have fun now.
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-08-15 21:27:00
PhilippinesAny cheap flights out there?
Anyone know of a few sites or Airlines with good deals flying from Manila to Los Angeles? I have checked many already but thought maybe someone on VJ might know of one that I haven't tried. Everything seems to be between $1,000 to $1,250. Some are more. :wacko:

Thanks,

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-08-17 13:38:00
PhilippinesGOT MY GREENCARD
Congrats!!
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-08-17 13:30:00
PhilippinesVisa Appoved
After returning the required Police Certificate from Japan back to the Embassy MJ's visa was approved yesterday August 15th. :thumbs: :dance: What a journey it has been and definitely a learning one also. We hope she has her visa by August 29th. Now it will be onto the AOS, how fun :wacko:

I accidentally found this site one day and it was a blessing. This site is so helpful and in so many ways. There are some truly great people here!!

We want to thank all of those that have been so helpful and supportive along the way. good luck for those that still have interviews coming up.

Take care

Charlie & MJ
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-08-16 14:08:00
PhilippinesAdditional ticket charges
QUOTE (beckypua @ Aug 18 2007, 11:16 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Sheriff Uling @ Aug 18 2007, 02:13 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Additional Airline Taxes (on top of the airline fare for the trip):

1. Travel Tax totaling 1620p
2. Terminal Tax totaling 580p
3. Security Tax totaling 250p

When my wife traveled back in Nov06 there were only the first two taxes on top of the airline fare that Philippine citizens had to pay before departing. Can someone please confirm whether #3 (Security Tax) exists?

Cheers!!!

Sheriff Uling

p.s. JoanBill - You might consider calling the Airlines to inquire and getting back to us with the true answer...

Last updated 05:12pm (Mla time) 02/12/2007


The Manila International Airport Authority has added a Security Development Charge (SDC) of PHP200.00 to the current Passenger Service Charge (PSC) of PHP550.00 making the total fee for passengers of international flights equivalent to PHP750.00. The Passenger Service Charge and the Security Development Charge combined shall now be referred to as the Airport Users Charge (AUC).
All departing passengers on international flights shall pay the AUC, unless exempted by law, treaty, executive agreement, or other similar issuances. A non-exempt passenger who refuses to pay the AUC shall not be allowed to board the aircraft. The AUC shall be paid in Philippine Peso or its equivalent in US Dollars based on the prevailing exchange rate. The AUC will be paid at any of the designated booths located at the Departure lobby upon presentation of the Boarding Pass.
The following passengers shall be exempt from payment of the AUC: Infants/Children below two years of age, Transit Passengers, Refugees, Pilgrims, Airline Cabin Crews, Overseas Filipino Workers, Athletes and Sports Officials, Deportees, and others authorized by the law. Various documents shall be presented with the Boarding Pass of the passenger who is qualified for exemption. The increase is effective starting February 01, 2007.





So just to clarify, the only fees needed to leave Manila Int'l is the 750 pesos for AUC, right? There is nothing else to pay for?

Thanks so much for the info.

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-08-18 14:01:00
PhilippinesGreat news but also beware
First off, MJ finally received her visa today. After getting final approval last Wednesday on August 15th her visa was delivered. good.gif good.gif kicking.gif kicking.gif

Now for the don't believe everything you're told stuff. Impatient as I am I called the Embassy twice in the last six days, once last week to inquire about her visa status and to my amazement I was told it just got approved. The woman at extension 5184 said give it a few days as there is a storm and it has delayed things. So since the Delbros site is often not working I called today to the same extension. The woman was VERY nice as usual. We went over some general info and she put me on hold which seemed like forever but more like two minutes, lol.

She said the visa hasn't been sent out yet and she mentioned the storm again, oh well. So I checked the Delbros site and nothing still there. At this point I'm telling myself, well at least it is approved and we just have to wait the delivery process out, yucky!!

Then MJ calls in her normal voice and says call her so I do. I say so is there something wrong? Her voice changes to a VERY happy tone saying she got her VISA. I of course in shock say, are you sure? I know stupid question. I just couldn't believe she had it since I just talked to the Embassy two hours earlier and they said her visa was still there.

I then ask MJ, did you get a text message saying that the delivery was coming and she says no. At this point I thinking, why is all of this so different from the many posts that I have read here on VJ and have spent countless hours on. Then to add to my confusion and happiness she says the delivery guy says congrats and shakes her hand and then her proceeds to open her plastic envelope and took out her visa for her and told her not to open the brown envelope. I know I have read so many post about people asking how to get their passports out and not to open the brown envelope so I'm thinking why did the delivery guy do this. Luckily he knew what he was doing. Luckily it was still early in the morning and MJ was still home getting her beauty sleep, haha, because I can just imagine hearing from her that the delivery guy came by but she wasn't there which means a one week delay. I had told here once she received a text message about the delivery that either she should stay home until delivered or write out a authorization letter for her mom and dad to accept delivery but like I said luckily she was home. She would have gone ballistic if she missed that visa.

The reason why I have posted this is so everyone that will receive their visa one day understands that every situation through this process is as different as the next. Don't believe everything your told by the Embassy. Bless their hearts but this system is seriously in need of being reorganized and structured differently.

We will be married on September 4th. good.gif good.gif good.gif good.gif good.gif good.gif

Good luck to all and sorry for the long post.

Take Care,

Charlie & MJ
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-08-21 22:22:00
PhilippinesPASSED THE MEDICAL!!
Congrats and good luck at the interview.

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-08-25 22:08:00
PhilippinesGetting Paranoid
QUOTE (David-Mae Forever @ Aug 27 2007, 12:04 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (dj1206 @ Aug 28 2007, 03:00 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I'm getting paranoid. My fiance sent me a package containing the original and photocopies of documents that I will be needing for the interview. The package hasn't arrived yet. He sent it thru USPS and he asked to have it traced but he was told the reply would be in 23 days. #######?! My interview is on 09-10 and Im getting jittery not having the papers with me yet! I also want to review the documents...I'm gonna cry!



Since it contains important documents and you need it right away, he should have used FedEx instead of USPS. It's kind of expensive using their services but it's very fast and efficient. Where are you from? When my then fiance sent me a package thru USPS, it took more than a month for me to get it (my then location's Laguna) that's why we never used it again. Can he track it online?


I agree using FedEx as it has worked well for me. It has always gotten there within five days every time. It was expensive but well worth the results.

Good Luck,
Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-08-27 14:20:00
PhilippinesResults of interview
Congrats and now onto AOS.

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-09-07 13:16:00
PhilippinesWedding Gown Cost
QUOTE (dj1206 @ Sep 12 2007, 02:26 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi. I don't know if this is the correct thread but I want to ask the Filipina women about their wedding gowns. How much did yours cost? I'm planning to have one made at my hometown by my mom's friend who's a famous designer for wedding gowns. She really makes beautiful gowns. My mom was told that her brand new gowns would cost at least 22,800 pesos and would be more depending on the design. We will be given discounts though but I'm still thinking. I want to be practical and at the same time have a gorgeous gown and I'm very choosy with clothes. I don't want to wear second-hands though.

Comments? Suggestions?


MJ bought hers in her home town of Koronadal City for 6,500 pesos and everything looked great! Everything was brand new also.
  • one gown
  • one head piece with crown and vail
  • arm length gloves
  • one bouquet but we got a real bouquet for the day of our wedding
  • two small pillows for the rings which looked very nice
Hope this helps and good luck.

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-09-12 19:25:00
PhilippinesWe're getting so close!

Hey Everybody!

Marilou got her packet last week. Her interview is scheduled for Sept. 4. wooohooo!!!!


Congrats and good luck. :dance:
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-08-05 22:14:00
PhilippinesManila Embassy Interview/Visa Status
QUOTE (Sheriff Uling @ Sep 12 2007, 12:10 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Check out the new badge... Yeah Baby Yeah!!!



Hey who did you steal that from, haha. nice touch on the tips.

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-09-12 10:10:00
PhilippinesManila Embassy Interview/Visa Status

My sincerest gratitude to the Manila thread posters. I have learned a lot from this, and just this morning, we had our interview. We're approved! TY.


Congrats Princess!
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-08-02 21:50:00
PhilippinesManila Embassy Interview/Visa Status

Fely and I have finally made it to California. Our plane landed late last night (Monday). Immigration was fairly easy and quick (maybe 10 minutes after initial fingerprinting). The officer had us scared briefly, because she wanted to see our medical results, which I did not have. After looking through the papers from the brown envelope several times, she finally found the med results. She also asked about our wedding day, and I said "Sept 1", but the papers from the envelope said Sept 11. They had included the marriage certificate from the I-130 submission, and not the NVC submission. So I had to explain why the two different dates, which she accepted. Then we passed quickly through customs, but missed our bus by 10 minutes. So we had to wait 2 hours for the next one.

We're at my mom's now for a few days, and of course trying to adjust to the time difference and all those other differences many of you have already experienced. Fely's is very quiet (as always), but I hope she'll become used to hearing and speaking English soon. Right now she's busy chikka texting with friend's and relatives back home.

Life is good, being together is better than anything. Thanks for all the support and I'll stop by here now and then when I have time.

BTW PW, our visa delivery was July 2, 4 days.

Gary and Fely



Congrats to both of you and enjoy your new life together.

Good luck,

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-07-18 08:23:00
PhilippinesManila Embassy Interview/Visa Status

WHAT???

LOL
Ano (A-noh)
The all-around, all-purpose word for everything.
(1) Pronoun in interrogation: Ano? (What)
(2) Noun: Where is your ano? (Where is your father/mother/dead-uncle's-second-cousin)
(3) Verb: Anuhin this. (Paint/kill/maim/castrate this.)
(4) Adjective: This is so ano. (This is so pretty/big/astounding.)
(5) Interjection: Ano! (What the hell!)
(6) Substitute for genitalia: Did you ano your ano?
The use of ano is quite dangerous for the untrained ear, and must be put into the proper setting.
"Honey, the ano is too long, we have to cut it," must be accompanied by the proper understanding of the context, as results may be critical to a couple's future.

From "Ano Sabi Mo?"


Very funny!

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-07-09 21:48:00
PhilippinesManila Embassy Interview/Visa Status

I spoke to the US Embassy in Manila again tonight. This time I was told that the CO is done and we are only awaiting "technical checks"? I asked what is a technical check and was told check of biometric and/or fingers scan. Anyone ever heard of this? I asked how long does this take, and she said no way of knowing exactly, but to call back Friday. She said she would tell the "Technical Department" I am calling and checking on my case. Actually tonight the Embassy has been more empathetic and forth coming than in the past.

On a side note, I received a letter from my US Rep. Tim Johnson's Office dated July 3rd, saying they have sent an inquiry to the US Consular Section in Manila and will get back to me as soon as they receive a response.

I also got an email from Senator ####### Durbin's Office,

" The U.S. consulate in Manila has acknowledged that your fiancé does not qualify for derivative U.S. citizenship. They have referred her I 129F to an adjudicating consular officer to resume its processing. Please feel free to contact me if you have additional questions or concerns."

It has been almost five weeks now and they still are telling me they don't need anything from us, it is in one type of processing or another………

So what should I think? Technical Check?

ANO!

:ranting:


You know the process is bad enough but if they would just start telling us what is wrong that is causing any delay would go a long way with everyone involved. After all we are the ones that filed the case in the first place. They definitely need some classes in customer service to say the least.

Good luck,

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-07-09 21:26:00
PhilippinesManila Embassy Interview/Visa Status

Hi everyone! Evan here.. just asking for your prayers, ill be having my interview tomorrow, wish me luck! :whistle:



Good Luck!!!

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-07-04 09:46:00
PhilippinesManila Embassy Interview/Visa Status

Hi Everyone,

My fiance has her interview tommorow, so everyone wish us the best!

Thank you everyone for your support, and I wish the best for everyone else that has their interviews coming up,

take care always,


Good luck. You'll have to give us the details of the interview as that is always interesting to everyone.

Take Care,
Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-07-01 21:55:00
PhilippinesManila Embassy Interview/Visa Status


Hi everyone!

I just want to share the unexpected outcome of my interview this morning. I arrived at USEM around 430 am from Bayview Park Hotel. Everything went fine and the CO told me that my papers were organized and complete but they still need to verify some information in NSO regarding our status before we get married (if we have previous marriages) since we were both PINOY the time of our wedding coz my hubby wasn't naturalize yet only last 2005 although he have been in the US for almost 15 years.

During my pre-screening (Filipino lady) only our pictures, emails, cards and snail mails were asked, I asked her if she needs to see my CENOMAR and my hubby's 2006 ITR she said those are all fine…my money transfer receipts for the last 4 yrs were not even asked also the bank statement. Yeah, I pretty much covered everything that can served as a proof prior to our marriage but seems not enough knowing everything were organized and all originals and recent.

I feel wrecked after my moment wid the CO, I never expected it that I'll be put on A/R. I answered all questions consistently & directly to the point with all my heart and gave some additional information like on the pictures (although it has captions already). Smiled even nerve wrecking. I don't know where I came short. I saw some applicant weren't even ready what to submit and present to them but end up having what they really wanted. I feel that my readings with all these visa things didn't paid off …I still end up at the darker part of the journey. I was hoping to be reunited wid my honey in 2 weeks but I am disappointed. I strive harder but it didn't work out. I insisted twice to present my CENOMAR to the Pre-screener and to the CO both refused to accept.

I am just wondering if I am just the only IR visa applicant here that went thru the same situation. Did I really screw up? How long am I going to be doomed?:roll:

I don't wanna lose hope even I've been thru a lot of RFE's (not our fault tho) coz I am almost there. Please..please enlighten me everyone. I don't know when to cheer up now.

PS. They let me pay delbros and was given a paper wid "wait till u here from us" words. I brought a 3 kilos of proof but was't enough.

I am in total despair.

Same story with my wife "but they still need to verify some information in NSO regarding our status before we get married (if we have previous marriages)" and got the paper "wait till u here from us" also. Hope it takes just 8 days like you.


Is this a common problem for those Filipina that have been married before? Does anyone know if this happens if the American was married and is now divorced? Just curious.

Good Luck,
Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-06-23 20:51:00
PhilippinesManila Embassy Interview/Visa Status

I was scheduled for my visa interview yesterday, June 19, 2007. I woke up at 4AM. Randy sent me a sweet SMS message and a wake up call. I took a shower. I applied what I have learned from my satorial savvy class and that is how to look smart and pleasantly pleasing to others. I went to the USE at 5AM though my scheduled appointment was for 7AM.

Upon my arrival at the waiting area, I was ushered by the vendor. He asked if I would like to rent a chair while waiting. I rented a monoblock chair for 30 pesos while waiting for our turn to be called. The vendors were giving instructions to the applicants like do not bring your cell phone and other electronic gadgets, If you do not have your ID picture, do not worry. They will take picture. But of course, the price is higher.

I was conversing with other K-1 applicants (Eden from Cebu, Lani of Laguna, Maggie of Bago City, ladies from Surigao and General Santos). I checked and helped Eden with her DS forms.

At 6:30 AM, the 7 AM K-1 applicants were ushered by the security guard to the next gate and inside the embassy premises. Please be ready with your appointment letter and ID and present that to the guard upon entry.

There were two lines, one for the immigrants and the other one for the non-immigrants. For the immigrant visa, we were directed by the guard to the right side of the embassy. Upon entry, your things will be scanned. So if you a have cell phone, digital cam or scissors, please leave them behind.

We were directed by the guard to the immigrant visa section and asked to be seated while the receiving booth was accepting the application of the 6:00 AM K-1 Applicants.

So while waiting, I read the instructions flashed on the TV monitor and at the same time conversed with my fellow k-1 applicants.

After 30 minutes of waiting, the 7:00AM batch was called up by the guard. I went to the receiving booth. I took out my appointment letter, 2 copies of DS-156 & 157 and one copy of DS 156K. The embassy personnel gave me a number. Mine was 7002. Then I went back to where I was seated.

Then I was waiting for the fingerprint scanning/biometric schedule. After waiting for 30 minutes, my name was called out. When it was my turn for the fingerprint scanning, the lady in-charge was RUDE. Maybe she woke up on the wrong side of the bed. I saw that she took out a different folder/file (7022) and the picture appearing on the screen was not mine. I called out her attention. Instead of listening, she chided me and the guy assisting her. I went back to where I was seated. However, my gut feeling was telling me to approach the guy and inform him that my file was screwed up. I approached the guy and informed him of the incident. I told him that my number is 7002 and not 7022. He, too, was insisting that the lady in-charge was correct. But at the back of mind, I knew that they had messed up my file.

After waiting for an hour, my number was flashed on the queuing board indicating where to go. I went to see the Filipina Pre-screener at Window 26. She asked me to submit my NBI and Birth certificate. I then asked her if she needed my CENOMAR, which she accepted, then the Affidavit of Support ( I gave her the notarized I-134 Affidavit of Support, Employment Letters, 3 years F-1040 & W-2, bank statements, pay stubs), and the pictures of Randy's visit in the Philippines.

She then asked me the following questions:

1. Who is your petitioner?
2. When, where and how did you meet?
3. When did you meet personally? How long?

The Filipina pre-screener raised her eyebrows when I informed her that we met for 4 days only. I was alarmed when I saw her reaction and she noted my answer on the paper she was holding.


While waiting for the final interview with the consul, my name was called up for a second fingerprint scanning. So my hindsight was correct. The lady in-charge made a mistake because she subjected me to another fingerprint scanning. This time the lady in-charge was kind and courteous.


While waiting for the final interview, I was scared due to the reaction of the pre-screener. But I told myself that I have to prove to the consul that our relationship is genuine.

The final call came. I was ushered to cubicle #29. I waited outside since the consul was still interviewing an applicant. The applicant was denied outright by the consul. The applicant had been petitioned by his parents. However, he was past the age limit of 21. The guy was insisting. I know that the consul was pissed off. I was scared then that the consul might not be in a good mood when it was my turn.

I went inside and greeted the consul with a smile. He greeted me "HELLO". That eased my tension. He asked my name and I stood up to take the Oath.

I had an engaging interview with the consul. He was very kind and very accommodating. He was not intimidating. Here are the questions he raised:

1. Who is your petitioner? How do you pronounce his name? (I pronounced it and informed him that the stress is on the first syllable. He then asked me if he is a Slovak or....... I graciously told him that he is a .......)

2. "Have you been petitioned before?" NO sir, this is the very first petition. The consul made comment that based on the data uploaded from the computer, I had also petitioned previously. He asked me for my birth date.

While he was encoding and checking the file, I told him about the fingerprint scanning incident. He informed me that there was a mix up on my file. Somebody's file was encoded on my file. But he assured me not to worry. So he continued interviewing me.
3. "Were you married before?" No I never have been...

4. "Do you have children?" NO biological children but I have 1017 children under my tutelage. He made a follow up question? "Have you adopted them?" NO sir. I am ……. and I have 1017 children under my guidance and supervision.

5. "Was he married before? With whom?"

6. "What is his work? How much does he earn? Is he living alone? Is he supporting his parents?" NO. "So you will be the only one he will be supporting?" Exactly, Sir.

8. "Do your parents approve of your relationship with him?"

9. "Did he visit you? When? How long?" Yes. For four days. "Why?" His company granted him a 7-day vacation leave.

At this point, I showed him our folder on the Evidence of Genuine Relationship. The consul readily accepted the folder and commented that it was well-organized and neatly arranged. I just smiled .His comment boosted my confidence.

He took a look at the emails (I printed out my email address inbox showing our daily emails from the beginning of our relationship till June 7, 2007). He read our emails. He made comments.. "ah you have subjected yourself to compatibility test and handwriting analysis...you have postal mail from his family, shipping invoices and several money transfers. Now I am convinced that you have a genuine relationship and I know you will not be a public charge in the US. You can easily work in there with your educational attainment and profession."

At this time, I politely and graciously asked the consul if I am approved and if there is anything wrong with my papers. He enthusiastically said… "YOU are APPROVED! Everything looks fine. Your file will be corrected later. You can now book your ticket! Congratulations!"

With a beaming smile I said... "THANK YOU SO MUCH SIR and GOD BLESS!"

I was smiling when I went out from the cubicle. I could not contain my happiness.

I was asked to return at 1pm for the release of the pink slip since they had not yet finished correcting the entry on the computer. I waited till 1:45 P.M. After long and agonizing hours of waiting, I received the most elusive PINK SLIP at Window #38. I paid DELBROS P 665.00.

I am so thankful that I was able to survive the punches and emerged victorious!

To All VJers waiting to be interviewed.

Be confident because your relationship is genuine not fraud.

Volunteer the documents which you think can support and establish your claim.

Smile and overcome your tension.

Be polite and gracious at all times. Greet them and do not expect to be greeted back.

Know your weakest link and prepare yourself on how to tackle it.

If you think the embassy employee made a mistake, graciously call her/his attention.

Most importantly, Ask God's blessing and guidance.

Almi


First off, CONGRATS!!!!!!!!!!! :thumbs: :dance: that was a great story and I'm definitely passing this along to MJ. She will enjoy reading this.

Good Luck,
Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-06-20 21:16:00
PhilippinesManila Embassy Interview/Visa Status

A followup - I was able to talk to the USE Immigrant Visa Unit. A very nice woman named Loraine talked to me. She looked up the case and said that Mae can send it overnight (FedEx, etc) from General Santos and that will be ok. She also said they will validate it with NSO and this takes 4-6 weeks. So the good news is that she is not denied but we will be on AR for a while. I suspect that 4-6 weeks is a maximum based on what others have said here.


Mae had her interview on the 18th but she didn't receive her CENOMAR in time, so we knew she most likely wouldn't get the visa immediately. However, she did pass the interview (!) and needs to return with the CENOMAR to continue processing the visa (technically, I assume this is AR? She said something about a blue flag?).

These are the details of her interview I recall from my not so good memory of what she said afterwards:

She had one hour of sleep the night before arrived at the embassy at 5am and was out by 11am. She said the pre-screener asked basic information about me, my children, and past marriages. She said the consul was very rude and asked her three times what our ages are, why was she sure she wanted to marry me, and how did she know she was in love. He didn't say anything reassuring and asked her to go wait for her number. She thought she hadn't passed and was in tears but the girl at the window reassured her and said that it was ok and all she needed to do was bring the CENOMAR back any day 1-2pm. She paid DELBROS and left.

We are very happy, but there is still some ambiguity and doubt since we're not sure what will happen and what delay this will cause. She has to return to General Santos and pick up the CENOMAR (it should be ready by now) and return to Manila. I haven't done a search of the VJ website but has anyone else had this experience? What sort of delay will this cause? It's quite a ordeal and more expense to return to just submit the document which will mean another flight and night at the hotel. I will call the embassy and find out if there is another means to submit it. However, on the other hand, it might speed up the process if she returned. Nothing is easy, lol.



Hi Jeff,
Just to clarify, so if she would have had the cenomar for the interview then they wouldn't need to validate it? I'm not totally familiar with the cenomar but doesn't it come from NSO to begin with? I don't see why that have to get it validated by them if it came from them.

Charlie

Yo Charlie!
There are a LOT of fake CENOMARS along with other documents in the Philippines.
I imagine USEM is already doing their own search with NSO.
Normally they care less about the one the person submits themselves but do their own checks.
Surprised they asked the person to submit one at all.


I guess it is no different here the U.S. with no many fake DL's. They are so bold here they sale these fake DL's right outside the DMV. Same thing goes for SS cards, I have seen so many bad imitations it is unbelievable.
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-06-20 08:10:00
PhilippinesManila Embassy Interview/Visa Status

A followup - I was able to talk to the USE Immigrant Visa Unit. A very nice woman named Loraine talked to me. She looked up the case and said that Mae can send it overnight (FedEx, etc) from General Santos and that will be ok. She also said they will validate it with NSO and this takes 4-6 weeks. So the good news is that she is not denied but we will be on AR for a while. I suspect that 4-6 weeks is a maximum based on what others have said here.


Mae had her interview on the 18th but she didn't receive her CENOMAR in time, so we knew she most likely wouldn't get the visa immediately. However, she did pass the interview (!) and needs to return with the CENOMAR to continue processing the visa (technically, I assume this is AR? She said something about a blue flag?).

These are the details of her interview I recall from my not so good memory of what she said afterwards:

She had one hour of sleep the night before arrived at the embassy at 5am and was out by 11am. She said the pre-screener asked basic information about me, my children, and past marriages. She said the consul was very rude and asked her three times what our ages are, why was she sure she wanted to marry me, and how did she know she was in love. He didn't say anything reassuring and asked her to go wait for her number. She thought she hadn't passed and was in tears but the girl at the window reassured her and said that it was ok and all she needed to do was bring the CENOMAR back any day 1-2pm. She paid DELBROS and left.

We are very happy, but there is still some ambiguity and doubt since we're not sure what will happen and what delay this will cause. She has to return to General Santos and pick up the CENOMAR (it should be ready by now) and return to Manila. I haven't done a search of the VJ website but has anyone else had this experience? What sort of delay will this cause? It's quite a ordeal and more expense to return to just submit the document which will mean another flight and night at the hotel. I will call the embassy and find out if there is another means to submit it. However, on the other hand, it might speed up the process if she returned. Nothing is easy, lol.



Hi Jeff,
Just to clarify, so if she would have had the cenomar for the interview then they wouldn't need to validate it? I'm not totally familiar with the cenomar but doesn't it come from NSO to begin with? I don't see why that have to get it validated by them if it came from them.

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-06-20 00:16:00
PhilippinesManila Embassy Interview/Visa Status
That is too cool!!!!

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-06-17 15:33:00
PhilippinesManila Embassy Interview/Visa Status

Dear All,

I would like to verify...

I still got no appointment packet in my hand, however, I want to go for early medical exam (2 weeks earlier than the my sched). What must I bring in lieu of my appointment packet?



I am planning for an early medical too but I have not received my packet yet. I have no idea how to go about it and what to bring. Shed some light please :help:


Go to this link and scroll down to #5.
http://www.visajourn...showtopic=68967

Good Luck,
Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-06-13 21:32:00
PhilippinesManila Embassy Interview/Visa Status

yay, im so happy, Congrats to ME, to REA and JULIE ANN, we just all checked the site and we have our appointments now. :thumbs:

For all those who are still waiting, check it now, i think they have new updates!! Goodluck Girls!!! :dance: :dance: :dance:


Medical - July 27th
Interview - August 3rd


We have the same dates as you guys but my fiancee is still waiting on her Japanese Police Certificate because she worked there for 6 months a few years ago. It takes 2-3 months to get that from them. We might have to reschedule but not sure yet or go to the interview and show them the receipt of her request for the PC. :wacko:

Good Luck,
Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-06-13 00:23:00
PhilippinesDS 157 FORM

I may be a little stupid here but what does the DS-157 have to do with a bank I looked at it 3 times and don't see anything about a bank......SOMEONE PLEASE ENLIGHTEN ME :blink:


It is in the instructions for the K1 Visa sent by the USE/Manila. This particular form has to be taken to a bank that is listed within the instructions. After you have paid the visa fee the bank then validates the DS 157 form and gives you a receipt. This is needed when you go to the interview.

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-07-03 21:56:00
PhilippinesDS 157 FORM

Is the bank accepting this form when they are brought in already filled out? I read some older post that said the bank gave their own DS 157 out? I thought they didn't like them filled out by hand. Also, the embassy requires two copies so does the bank validate two copies or just one?

Thanks in advance,

Charlie

I filled up mine on line and I just attached the DS 157 form from the bank and they will required 2 copies .
Good luck


Thanks so much for the info.

Take Care,
Charlie

So which one did the bank validate, theirs or yours? Is the one from the bank left Blank or did you also fill that out by hand? My fiancee MJ has also filled hers out online (2) but we were curious about the procedures used at the bank for this. It isn't clear if they validate one or two and which one do they validate since they give you one of their own.

Thanks for the response,

Charlie

During my interviewed at embassy I gave to them 2 copies from online and one copy from the bank validate I just attached it.I did not fillet up the form from the bank.


busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-07-03 18:36:00
PhilippinesDS 157 FORM

Is the bank accepting this form when they are brought in already filled out? I read some older post that said the bank gave their own DS 157 out? I thought they didn't like them filled out by hand. Also, the embassy requires two copies so does the bank validate two copies or just one?

Thanks in advance,

Charlie

I filled up mine on line and I just attached the DS 157 form from the bank and they will required 2 copies .
Good luck


So which one did the bank validate, theirs or yours? Is the one from the bank left Blank or did you also fill that out by hand? My fiancee MJ has also filled hers out online (2) but we were curious about the procedures used at the bank for this. It isn't clear if they validate one or two and which one do they validate since they give you one of their own.

Thanks for the response,

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-07-03 14:06:00
PhilippinesDS 157 FORM
Is the bank accepting this form when they are brought in already filled out? I read some older post that said the bank gave their own DS 157 out? I thought they didn't like them filled out by hand. Also, the embassy requires two copies so does the bank validate two copies or just one?

Thanks in advance,

Charlie
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-07-02 23:23:00
PhilippinesPassport question

you know, i personally know someone who lied or at least didnt tell her then fiance that she worked in japan so she got a new passport. then their k-1 process came and since i was ahead of her from filing the k-1, i was helping her with the requirements. i know (and so does everybody in the neighborhood) that once upon a time she worked in japan and so i told her to get a police cert. at the japan embassy sort of. but she strongly said NO coz from the start she lied in the application form that she's not been out abroad much more working in japan (her reason is her fiance might "judge" her. so she get a new passport). so interview came, "everybody's" weary on what the outcome knowing visa fraud is a big no no at the embassy. we end up telling her to find a lawyer to enlighten her senses, but guess what? the lawyer told her to just go on with lie since identity theft is also pretty common in phil especially if you want to work overseas. that if the embassy would check and ask her all she gota do is tell them no it wasnt me. lol... so in the end, she goes in with the lie and fortunately (luckily indeed) she get away with it. and now she's in the US for 3 months now... im not suggesting to go with this plan (not at all). just speculating something that somehow the embassy itself got some loop holes... i was just afraid for her that some will have a background check and interview the neighbors and will find out, coz ive read in the other forum that someone from the embassy actually visited the girl's home town and did some checking...
anyways as everybody saying, better go to the DFA or is it the POEA not sure excatly, to ask for some old records



My fiance situation is a bit different because she already has it on the form and prior paperwork that she went to Japan. The thing is you only really need the Police Certificate from Japan if someone is there six months or longer. We decided to go ahead a request the P.C. The biggest hang up is trying to get a hold of the Philippine Bureau of Immigration. Nobody seems to answer the phones or the line is always busy. I have called over 50 times so far during their business hours but no such luck. Since my fiance has to fly there for this we need to know exactly what do they need to get her old travel information. Luckily she knows what her old passport number was. This is still a major headache!!!! If we would have known this five months ago we would have gotten this done.

Thanks for the help.
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-05-28 16:14:00
PhilippinesPassport question

I have always lived on the side of being prepared. Yes it does say if 6 months or longer. But the fact that she does not have her old passport, may raise the question. I would get one anyway, just to be on the side of caution. I know it is not easy for her to get one, but it is better to be prepared, than to have a delay. This is just my opinion!


As the saying goes better safe than sorry so I told her go ahead and get it but it now appears that the Manila Embassy is processing things faster so she probably won't get the police certificate in time, what a bummer. :angry: It takes 2-3 months to get the P.C. and I'm pretty sure her interview date will be before that comes.

Do you know, would I need to call and change her interview date and is there a long delay with that?

Thanks for your help!



I would not call and delay it. Let them be the ones to decide on that day if they need it or not, since it would take too long to get the PC. Who knows, this may not even be asked in the interview. But never voluntarily delay, always let them decide to delay it. Hope it helps!!! Good Luck!!



You know that is a good idea. Either way there could be a delay so we might as well let them decide at the interview. She has a clean background so that is not a concern. I'll tell her to bring her request for the P.C. just so if they ask they can see that she has made the effort to get it one through the Japanese Consulate.

Thanks so much!
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-05-28 16:06:00
PhilippinesPassport question

If your fiancee is not sure what dates she was in Japan, then she can go to the Bureau of Immigration and get a certification for request of travel records. I think the US embassy also request travel records from the BI, as part of their security/name checks, so they may also find out how long your fiancee stayed in Japan even if you don't tell them. I am not sure about this though, somebody correct me if I am wrong. For lost passports, the embassy might also ask her if she ever filed an affidavit of loss for it and ask her for a copy. I have read about someone relating her interview experience and she was asked for a copy of the affidavit of loss/police report for her old passport.

If the embassy finds out she stayed more than 6 months in Japan then she will need police clearance. On the other hand, if they also find out you lied about her stay there it might even cause the denial of her visa.


She has the affidavit of loss for her old passport but what a headache trying to get a hold of the Bureau of Immigration in Manila. Their phones are either busy or ring without being answered. There is no automated system or anything there. I have personally called of fifty times without any luck of contacting anyone. She doesn't live in Manila and its not like we own a jet to go flying around trying to find out what to do about this. We already know she will have to make two trips to Manila for the exam and interview but she might be facing at least two other trips to to get her travel dates from the BI. Then she has to request the P.C. from the Consulate in another city but I think since she will be in Manila for her travel dates maybe she can visit the Japanese Embassy instead of a consulate. I think I have a migraine now!!!!!

Thanks for your response.
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-05-28 13:39:00
PhilippinesPassport question

I have always lived on the side of being prepared. Yes it does say if 6 months or longer. But the fact that she does not have her old passport, may raise the question. I would get one anyway, just to be on the side of caution. I know it is not easy for her to get one, but it is better to be prepared, than to have a delay. This is just my opinion!


As the saying goes better safe than sorry so I told her go ahead and get it but it now appears that the Manila Embassy is processing things faster so she probably won't get the police certificate in time, what a bummer. :angry: It takes 2-3 months to get the P.C. and I'm pretty sure her interview date will be before that comes.

Do you know, would I need to call and change her interview date and is there a long delay with that?

Thanks for your help!
busycharlieMalePhilippines2007-05-28 13:31:00