ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusWhat the ....
QUOTE (slim @ May 26 2008, 06:43 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
How did you guys get your "unmotivated" wives to get out and do something useful? Or are you still working through the process?
Have you tried the education route yet? My wife for example has yet to bring in $10k a year but she has always been going to school full time (for free I must add) and working part time, granted those jobs don't pay much. However, she will have her BA next year and if all is well should rap up a masters program the following year. And with any luck she should be making as much if not more as AK's wife in two years time.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-05-26 11:30:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusPassed the California Bar Exam!
QUOTE (akdiver @ May 20 2008, 06:09 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
So, guy takes his 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon to the dealer - title in hand, no lien. Shows Jeep and title to the dealer - says, "what'll give me for it?" Dealer spends some time looking at the Jeep - which is in spectacular condition - like showroom - plays around on the computer a bit - and gives a figure the seller finds acceptable. Deal is done - let's suppose dealer hands over cash on the spot - seller signs title over to dealer. The deal is done.

Unbeknownst to dealer - the seller has swapped out the axles on the Rubicon. Instead of the D44 with electric lockers, they're just plain jane axles off an X - nothing interesting or special about them - they even have the lame 3.21 (or whatever) gear ratio. Further, the transfer case has also been switched out - now it is just a plain X transfer case. Finally, just for fun, let's suppose the YES essential seats that come with the Rubicon have been swapped out with the plain ones from an X as well (although this is not critical to the question and should not affect the answer).

Dealer sells the vehicle as a Jeep Rubicon - complete with remaining factory warranty (suppose vehicle has only 10,000 miles on it). This new buyer discovers the ruse, goes back to the dealer to complain, stating dealer has ripped him off - threatens to sue, but will settle for a 100% refund of price, all taxes, fees, etc.

So - who has a case here?
First of all the applicable law here would be the Uniform Commercial Code rather than common law contracts, because we are talking about the sale of movable goods, i.e. a car.
Then we break the case into two:

Dealer v. Original Seller:
Under the UCC the dealer will be termed a merchant and will have difficulty proving mutual mistake because he did inspect the jeep with his inside knowledge. If he can show that his extra knowledge was insufficient to spot the cover up, and the original seller knew of the mistake then we have a unilateral mistake.
A unilateral mistake is where only one party to a contract is mistaken as to the terms or subject-matter. The courts will uphold such a contract unless it was determined that the non-mistaken party was aware of the mistake and tried to take advantage of the mistake.

Buyer v. Dealer:
Or if the dealer can honestly say he did not know of the cover up then he can rescind the contract due to mutual mistake.
A mutual mistake occurs when the parties to a contract are both mistaken but about the same material fact within their contract. They are at cross-purposes. As such, there is no consensus ad idem, and this overlaps with the objective theory of contract, and there is no offer and acceptance. Hence the contract is void. The changed parts in the Jeep must be of material importance.

QUOTE (akdiver @ May 20 2008, 06:09 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Can buyer #2 successfully claim damages against the dealer for fraud? vehicle was advertised and sold as a Jeep Rubicon - which has a standard and implicitly understood definition involving the axles, t-case, and seats. Dealer did not know the equipment had been swapped out and didn't intentionally try to rip off the buyer. Due to lack of intent, does buyer have any case at all? Does buyer bear any responsibility for a conducting detailed check of components - just not verifying the vehicle is mechanically sound?

Can dealer successfully claim damages against the seller for fraud? Seller didn't make any particular claims about the vehicle - just presented ownership documents and agreed on a price. Are claims about the vehicle's components implied by the obvious fact he was selling a Rubicon? Does seller have a legal (not moral) obligation to point out such substantial modifications to the dealer (knowing full will they affect value), or is dealer obligated to confirm all components for himself? Must dealer prove buyer knew about the component swap? What if the seller bought the vehicle from someone else this way and didn't know about the swapped out components? Does this let the seller off the hook since there was no intent to defraud?

Fraud or caveat emptor - lawyers in the house, please speak up (:


Buyer v. Dealer:
A lot of the caveat emptor problems have been fixed by local state statute such as in California "Buyer's Bill of Rights". So the ease of undoing the contract and get any kind of general or punitive damages in tort will vary in each jurisdiction.
First the contract claim - remedies:
As mentioned above, mutual or unilateral mistake (implied because dealer is a merchant) can void the sale to begin with.
Next there are warranty issues:
1. Express Warranty - none was given here.
2. Implied Warranty - an implied warranty is a contract law term for certain assurances that are presumed to be made in the sale of products or real property, due to the circumstances of the sale. These assurances are characterized as warranties irrespective of whether the seller has expressly promised them verbally or in writing. They include an implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose, an implied warranty of merchantability for products, and an implied warranty of habitability for a home. Therefore, a car dealership selling a particular jeep will carry an implied warranty it is that kind of jeep.
For implied warranty of merchantability:
This warranty will apply to a merchant (that is, a person who makes an occupation of selling things) who regularly deals in the type of merchandise sold.
Under US law, goods are 'merchantable' if they meet the following conditions:
1. The goods must conform to the standards of the trade as applicable to the contract for sale.
2. They must fit for the purposes such goods are ordinarily used, even if the buyer ordered them for use otherwise.
3. They must be uniform as to quality and quantity, within tolerances of the contract for sale.
4. They must be packed and labeled per the contract for sale.
5. They must meet the specifications on the package labels, even if not so specified by the contract for sale.
Our dealer will have issues with the last three items.
We also need more facts on any disclaimers if they were made. If a personal injury was involved as a result of the "downgraded" jeep then no disclaimer will save the dealer.

Fraud - Criminal:
In criminal law, fraud is the crime or offense of deliberately deceiving another in order to damage them – usually, to obtain property or services unjustly. [1] Fraud can be accomplished through the aid of forged objects. In the criminal law of common law jurisdictions it may be called "theft by deception," "larceny by trick," "larceny by fraud and deception" or something similar. Lack of intent by the dealer will avoid a fraud charge.
Fraud - Civil: Similar standard, the burden usually rests with the defrauded person, who must prove intent to defraud. Hard to do when ignorance is involved.

If seller bought the vehicle from someone else, the warranties mentioned above go out the window, because a non-merchant is held to a much lower standard and intent to defraud or actual knowledge of the switched parts are needed. Mutual mistake will still apply however.

Dealer v. Original Seller:
Since the original seller knew, and if the dealer can prove this he can be successful under contract, civil tort, and even criminal tort.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-05-21 09:16:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusPassed the California Bar Exam!
It's official, I passed the CA Bar on my first try. Results came out on May 16, 2008 at 6:00pm.
http://members.calbar.ca.gov/exam/
The anxiety I felt over this and the difficulty of the thing cannot even compare to getting a visa for my wife. The visa was a lot more simpler, easier, and honestly less stressful.

As soon as I receive the official paper work I can get sworn in and finally add Esquire to my name.

It's the coolest thing in the world. I had to share with everyone.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-05-17 03:43:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusToilet seat covers
Never saw a seat cover. Someone should post an image.
Cities I visited with no seat covers - Moscow, Sochi, Tomsk, Kharkov (Ukraine), and Novosibirsk.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-05-31 09:13:00
Russia, Ukraine and Belarusfinal checking before the interview - please need advise
My wife went with 3 recent pictures of us together. I-134, 3 years tax returns and W2's. 6 recent pay stubs. Original birth certificate with one copy with translation. Original passport and copy. 10 emails between each other, 2 real letters between each other, copies of my passport, naturalizaiton certificate, and visa / entry stamps,and 6 months of phone bills, highlighting our respective numbers, NOA2, police certificate, and medical results. All in all they kept 1 photo and returned it with the passport in the DHL packet.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-06-05 13:36:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusFinal Interview Date
QUOTE (slim @ Jun 3 2008, 09:43 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Why would she need representation at an initial interview? I can understand if there was an issue later, but right now, should be a cakewalk, right
There are no issues of course. However, in terms of future clients, it is a lot easier to avoid a future problem by representing someone from the start.

QUOTE (slim @ Jun 3 2008, 09:43 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I think you should go with her, of course, even if you're not allowed "in the back" with her. But to represent her, "I'm her husband, and her attorney" could set you up for a conflict of interest.
Of course I have to go with her, because it is a long drive to our local office. But unlike the average person on VJ, I could in theory go all the way just because I now can. As for conflict of interest, a simple waiver in writing takes care of that. Although her attainment of citizenship does not really conflict with my zealous representation since that is exactly what I want her to get. Could only be an issue if citizenship would for some crazy reason not be in her best interest.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-06-03 21:52:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusFinal Interview Date
QUOTE (jsouthwick @ Jun 3 2008, 07:27 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Might want to look at the N-400 forum and the post regarding the 20 most difficult questions for review purposes.
Are you referring to this thread:
http://www.visajourn...howtopic=130573
The civics test was last thing my wife would worry over. I am more concerned about them scheduling an oath ceremony six months after the interview. Just looked at Lexa’s timeline, not pleased.
http://www.visajourn...rofile.php?id=2
Thread:
http://www.visajourn...howtopic=130808
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-06-03 10:03:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusFinal Interview Date
QUOTE (akdiver @ Jun 2 2008, 08:49 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
But I thought that if the basis were a 3 year marriage, spouse goes to interview too?
Interesting point, I had no idea we could attend together.

Also just a few days ago I thought this whole interview thing would take place next year this time. As it turns out that July 2007 processing date is in no way accurate.

Edited by Satellite, 03 June 2008 - 08:59 AM.

SatelliteMaleRussia2008-06-03 08:59:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusFinal Interview Date
We got our final interview date in the mail today. Scheduled for July 21, 2008 at our local office. As I understand my wife has to go at it alone. However, I can have her fill out a G-28 and then I can make an appearance as her attorney. But would that only stir up unnecessary trouble since we are related?

Edited by Satellite, 02 June 2008 - 10:05 PM.

SatelliteMaleRussia2008-06-02 22:03:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusFavorite Pictures in Russia
QUOTE (Chuckles @ Feb 11 2008, 08:25 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
So I guess if you can learn anything from me, look for some good Russian stores or restaurants in advance, and explain all your finances in fine detail first.
Having the luxury of having Russian stores all around me in me in both San Francisco and Sacramento I can tell you that if you do all your grocery shopping there you will spend twice if not three times what you would shopping at discount grocery stores like Winco, Walmart and Costco. We hardly go to the Russian stores and if we do we only buy a few "luxury" items as a treat.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-11 12:13:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusMedical Appointment
QUOTE (slim @ Feb 13 2008, 06:43 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Sure, the facilities are nicer, but the people inside the public health facilities here are the scary part.
Slim if you understood Russian at a fluent level you would find that the treatment received by Russia's patients at their clinics borders on absolute rudeness and cruelty. Ever stood 4 hours in the freezing cold to have your X-rays examined only to watch the window of the clinic close in front of your face? Or if you do get to the window, you are interrogated on why you brought your stupid butt down to the clinic to waste their time?
But, yeah, the folks at our public health are definitely scary.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-13 10:58:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusMedical Appointment
QUOTE (Neonred @ Feb 12 2008, 10:37 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
This will save you time and probably a lot of money as most civil surgeons now seem to be trying to force a full new medical on people.
Don't forget to rule out your state's public health clinics. My wife who was unable to convince MOM to even give her the needed vaccinations back in 2004 was able to get the ones she needed here at our local public health for $10 each and the civil surgeon who worked there signed off free of charge, granted it took him 3 weeks to do so. Of course the rich folks on here, wouldn't dare shoe their wives the inside of public health facilities, but, odds are they are still better looking than Russia's public health facilities.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-12 15:02:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusHow much time is enough?
Nick'n'Nat,
Wasn't Natasha already here in the US working for you in the past? If so, she should have already had a SSN and there is no need to apply for another one. You should confirm this on the main board for adjustment of status. I suppose she could tell the Social Security Office about the changes in her status, but the number itself should be the same. I just don't know what the the SS card looks like when you arrive on a J visa. Is it also the "not valid without DHS authorization"? Social security seems to favor you rushing there two weeks after your arrival and getting a card in your maiden name before marrying on the K1. Then returning for an update after you get married (change last name) whenever that is. And then returning again after you get your greencard. Although you are right, people have had a lot of strange issues with SS, mostly because they apply after marriage for the first time and that technically makes their K1 invalid since they are no longer a fiancee, and then SSA requires an EAD or greencard, rather then just accepting the NOA1 for AOS. Ours went without any problems and we did it in the order described above.

Slim,
Waiting past 90 days is going to be an uphill battle to complete AOS since you technically violated the terms of the K1 visa. There might be some way to file an I-130 and wait for it's adjudication here in the US and eventually the overstay will be forgotten for marriage to a USC without having your wife start over. But the actual 90 day marriage deadline I wouldn't recommend messing with.
SatelliteMaleRussia2006-02-19 10:38:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusHow much time is enough?
Technically you can wait until the last day. And you can file AOS paper work any time after that because all over stays are forgotten when marriage to a US citizen occurs. But I wouldn't push it too much. There were many stories of concern on here in years past about filing way after 90 days, but everyone did fine. Ideal of course is to file your paperwork and be married with in the 90 day scope. We didn't file until about 80 days after her arrival and a week after marriage and honeymoon.
SatelliteMaleRussia2006-02-15 13:45:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusMilitary Service and Taxes for Russian Citizens

Sat, you are military age. Where does this put you? You emmigrated prior to '91 right? Still a little worried though?

I am of military age, but I am not a Russian Citizen, so I have nothing to worry about. We left as traitors of the USSR (refugees) at the end of 1988. Not only were we stripped of citizenships, we didn't even have passports for that matter. Just one of those silly green paper exit visas. So I always had to use visas to travel to Russia. I had to show that old piece of paper when applying for a Russian visa with my US passport, because otherwise I could not prove I am no longer a Russian citizen because I was born in the former USSR. That is an extra burden put on us ex-citizens :P
Although there was a small time frame in 2002 or 2003 that all of us ex-pats could have restored citizenship by paying huge fines and filling out a lot of paperwork. The news never got to me in time.
This post was actually more concerned with kids. For those with kids or planning on having kids; getting Russian citizenship for them seems like an advantage to avoid the visa issues, but I was just curious if the military and tax burden could ever rise to a real concern when these boys reach military age.
SatelliteMaleRussia2006-02-15 13:30:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusMilitary Service and Taxes for Russian Citizens
For those of you marrying Russians citizen ladies who have children who came over on K2/K4, what do you think the policy is about those boys visiting Russia during their prime military age? Is it possible for those boys who at the time will probably be dual US and Russian citizens to be forcefully detained and drafted into the military upon their arrival on a visit to Russia? I haven't heard any stories, but if you are a Russian male in Russia and you aren't going to a University or are not medically excused there is a good chance you are going to go into compulsory military service. Anybody have thoughts on these issues?
Similarily what about tax law? Any chance that your Russian citizen spouses could be dragged into court and jailed for not paying taxes on foreign income he or she earned? I don't know Russian tax law but I am sure it is pretty arbitrary like all other things over there.
Are these legitimate concerns or just silly thoughts?
SatelliteMaleRussia2006-02-14 15:08:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusCats?
QUOTE (jsouthwick @ Feb 21 2008, 06:02 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
As to the New York requirements on pets, most states cannot interfere with any interstate movement whether cargo or people or impose local rules on transient cargo or people. That is why the statute cited makes exceptions for animals in transit via the state of New York. Not being a New York lawyer I cannot give you any more certainty than this, but having a copy of the statute you posted on VJ and the applicable federal regs will do no harm.
Nothing like making an undue burden on interstate commerce and supremacy clause (federal preemption) argument at the border with your cat! Bravo! Anyway, the individual states still have a way out if you recall:
Maine v. Taylor 477 U.S. 131 (1986) – the court held that a Maine statute prohibiting the import of minnows into Maine in order to preserve the health and integrity of their minnow population was valid, despite the fact that it was facially discriminative, because the state interest was a valid one and no alternate method of protecting such an interest was available. So if any state can make that argument about their pet populations you can have something to argue.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-21 11:45:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusCats?
QUOTE (Mags @ Jan 18 2008, 12:25 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I flew my two cats with me from the UK.
I flew with Delta airlines
I have some correspondence between myself and the CDC
I flew in[to] Cincinnati, [Ohio]
These are the key four things in your post which make your situation only applicable to the facts you presented.
1. You flew from the UK. Other countries can control the export of pets in anyway shape or form. Ranging from NO cats fly to unusual requirements and outrageous costs.
2. Any other airline besides Delta can have different policy for flying cats on their planes - again ranging from NO to unusually difficult requirements and outrageous costs.
3-4. CDC is binding as to federal standards. However, states can and do impose stricter standards. Some states have adopted the CDC standard; others can make you bring in a health history more detailed then for a human.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-01-18 16:34:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusCats?
I guess it is more of a hassle, finally found it:
http://www.aeroflot....o=769&d_no=6402
"In order to take a pet on the flight, you must receive a veterinary certificate at a state veterinary clinic as well as an authorization to take your pet abroad."
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-01-17 16:16:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusCats?
So would proof of all these vaccinations have to be certified and translated just like for a human? It seems like if you fly into California it is the same rule as for the federal. Possible quarantine if the cat looks unhealthy with no vaccinations. Aeroflot allows cats up to 8 kilos into the cabin and charges extra. I honestly thought it would be a much bigger hassle, like getting all the vaccinations done, translated, certified, etc...and paying on every end of the way.
http://www.redtape.r...hp/t-12550.html Aerolfot
http://www.cdfa.ca.g.../Cats_Dogs.html California
http://www.cdc.gov/n...d/dq/animal.htm Federal
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-01-17 16:09:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusDiscrepancy
I think the problem most people are having in this issue is boils down to this:
1. Do I mentioned every place I lived in Russia even if I was registered there to the US folks?
2. Will the Russian folks withhold or even issue my police certificate and/or fine me for requesting a police certificate for places I have lived where I was never registered?
By answering truthfully to (1) as you should (US folks have no interest in upholding Russian laws); you open the great unknown which is (2). I have no answer or comment as to (2),
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-21 15:09:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusAlmost free tickets - what is current visa registration scam?
QUOTE (akdiver @ Feb 20 2008, 06:11 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
a). It's not spending money TO get tickets, it's getting tickets for money you're spending anyway. Big difference.
Whenever I do the math, if you consider just spending as the only source of getting miles I always found it would take us several years to spend enough money to earn even one ticket, let alone too. We live on under 30k a year and more than 1/3 goes to rent which you can't pay with a credit card.

QUOTE (akdiver @ Feb 20 2008, 06:11 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
b ). Not all of those miles come from spending money. Some of them are "bonus" miles - given annually with the card, extra miles you get for buying plane tickets with the card, from dining, or other such things. Some of them are really easy miles to get - such as the 30,000 miles you get for signing up for a particular visa card. Get one for you and your wife and that is 60,000 miles right there. Of course, some of the miles come from actually flying around too (:
As you stated in your original post you need to actually travel to get any kind of benefit, because as I understand the cards earn a lot of "bonus" miles when you buy that airlines or group of airlines tickets. For us, we pretty much stick to car trips and if we do travel to somewhere like Hawaii I usually scope out a decent deal on travelocity once a year. Fine dining and hotels are certainly out.

QUOTE (akdiver @ Feb 20 2008, 06:11 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Miles cards have other benefits too. Mine gives me a "buy one get one for $50" coupon every year. When I made a business trip, my client paid for my ticket and I used the coupon to get one for my wife and she ended up with a $800 ticket that we paid all of $60 or so for. That's a good deal compared with a cash back card.
My father got an offer like this. So we decided to use it. It turned out the first ticket you buy to the destination we had in mind was $600 + $50 for the other. When I went on travelocity I found a different airline capable of getting us to the same destination for $275 each. As you can tell I was clearly discouraged.

So in the end, when I do become a big time spender and travler, I'll definetly drop the cash back Capital One and American Express (Costco) cards. But in the meantime I'll take the couple hundred dollars they pay out each year and use it on rent.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-20 22:42:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusAlmost free tickets - what is current visa registration scam?
QUOTE (Neonred @ Feb 20 2008, 05:16 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Wife and I got almost the same deal this past September-October. Used Delta Sky Miles to fly Delta from Florida to Moscow. 100K miles and a little over $100 for the two round trips.
As I understand it is somewhere between 1 to 2 miles per every dollar you spend with those mile earning cards, right? So at best we are talking spending $50,000 to get two free tickets. I have been sticking to the cash back rewards cards ranging from 1 - 5% depending on what you buy. I haven't decide which earns the better deal yet.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-20 20:56:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusAlmost free tickets - what is current visa registration scam?
QUOTE (Chris Parker @ Feb 20 2008, 10:30 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
However, be warned that if you get a private visa, it can only be registered at the residence of the sponsor who got the invitation (at least that was the case in year 2000).
I was able to register my private visa for a second time while staying two days at Moscow hostel, that was in 2004. The consulate in the their FAQ claims that any Russian visa can be registered in any city and must be done any time you are there for more than 72 hours. But trying telling that to an arbitrary enforcer. I actually have tried, and here is what they say, "we'll take you down to the station to sort it out"! That's when you pull out the bribe.

QUOTE (Chris Parker @ Feb 20 2008, 10:30 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
(3) visa period can be extended while in Russia or you may be able to obtain a temporary residence permit (and later a permanent residence permit) if you entered with one.
I successfully did this part in order to stay in Russia 3 weeks passed the 90 days in order to Return to the US with my wife. I would have never guessed it would take over 100 days to go from NOA2 to interview.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-20 15:20:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusAlmost free tickets - what is current visa registration scam?
QUOTE (Neonred @ Feb 19 2008, 05:29 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I have done the private visa on one occasion and found it was more trouble than it was worth (unless of course one is planning to stay more than 30 days). I am not sure what you mean by "much smaller fees than tourist visa support charges" as this usually costs about $35 and in my mind beats the heck out of someone in Russia dealing with OVIR to get the invitation and then having to send it to the US. As I said, I did it once and decided it wasn't worth it for a 2 or 3 week visit.
QUOTE (eekee @ Feb 19 2008, 05:00 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Visa support isn't *that* expensive, and I'd rather pay and save on hassle. Plus, there's a much higher risk of your private visa being rejected.
On MY two trips I have always stayed more than 30 days because I was a poor college student at the time with a long summer break and plenty of time to go through any possible hassles. So when you compare the price of a business visa support v. private visa it was either my wife pays 400 rubles or I expend several hundred dollars. Likewise if you go the multiple tourist visa route, leaving the country and returning every 30 days is no fun either. As far as the private visa getting rejected, why that sounds like something the visa support websites put up, because they want your business. In MY experience I have had no problems twice.
As far as hassling your significant other to do the private visa, why not is my response. You have to be hassled for her K1; she can do her part for your visa too. The K1 is a lot more work and time in my opinion.
I was too broad in my statement about 400 rubles being a smaller fee than $35 but I read on here how these agencies also try to collect another $30 at registration and as others have indicated the tourist visa route has issues with being forced to find your company in a specific city for registration purposes.
As far as being stopped, I speak fluent Russian so I am not sure why I couldn't blend in. It has to be the clothes and the haircut. Just look at the guys over there, all the same in both departments.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-20 11:15:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusAlmost free tickets - what is current visa registration scam?
QUOTE (Kazan @ Feb 19 2008, 03:47 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
How did they know your were in Sochi for 9 days? I registered only in Kazan' and went where ever I pleased. If I were ever stopped, (which I was once) I just said, I'm passing through.
They got me at the airport on my flight back to Tomsk. They looked at the receipt of my round trip ticket and concluded it was more than 72 hours. I think it is all a large scam by the officers who check your passports as you are going through security. They are only supposed to check it for ID purposes to match the ticket, but all they are interested in is the registration.

QUOTE (eekee @ Feb 19 2008, 04:11 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
this thread is the first time i've ever heard of anyone getting a private visa instead of a tourist or business visa.
As far as I know I am the only one here who has successfully done the private visa. I did it both times on my trips to Russia. My wife took care of it and all I sent her was a copy of my US passport by email and she printed it out there. Made all the appropriate copies, filled in all the appropriate forms and paid the much smaller fees then tourist visa support charges and I registered likewise with little hassle paying some nominal fee. Everyone else one here just pays for convenience. Both my wife and I have always planned the trips well in advance and did not have any issues, and we both agree that the extra money wasted on visa support can go elsewhere.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-19 19:46:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusAlmost free tickets - what is current visa registration scam?
QUOTE (Kazan @ Feb 19 2008, 02:04 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
The key is being registered somewhere for the duration of your stay. The best choice being the main location of your stay.
Not true based on personal experience of having to pay a fine for not registering in Sochi for a 9 day trip while being duly registered in Tomsk for 3 months. Also while in Moscow, had to produce Moscow registration again being registered in Tomsk, had that registration so no fines. Fine in Sochi was an arbitrary 150 rubles in 2004.
Not being a recent traveler I can only post the information you need:
http://blogs.waytorussia.net/item/59
http://www.waytoruss...gistration.html
I can only speak of the private visa and that one has not changed based on my reading. Anyone in Russia sponsors "gets" the invitation from the OVIR and then he or she registers you at the OVIR.
As far as "goof off" a bit in Moscow, if it is under 72 hours you will only need to show your visa entry stamp to prove it is has been less than 72 hours. So no registration needed.
Worst case scenario on the registration, you go to the OVIR and they redirect you somewhere else. You lose a day, stand in line, get frustrated, and wonder why you came to Russia.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-19 17:50:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusVisa fees - geeze louise - Olympics in Russia
QUOTE (akdiver @ Feb 21 2008, 08:27 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Russia Visa Fee: $131
Outbound Postage (fedex): $21
Return Postage (USPS): $5
Money Order: $1
Invitation (GotoRussia): $30
Total fees: $188
It's all about reciprocity. It's an even a bigger hassle getting a visa to the US and so the Russians try to recreate it as well as possible.
US Visa Fee: $131
Pony Express Fees: $25 - $75
Document Gathering (Proof of ties to Russia) Expenses: $5-50
In Person Interview Traveling Expenses: $0 - $1000
Total Fees: Way too Much!
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-22 11:14:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusExchanging Money In Moscow
QUOTE (akdiver @ Feb 20 2008, 07:00 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Will be our first trip back since getting married and pretty much 3 years since she came (a couple of months short of 3 years anyway). She is looking forward to it - but frankly, I'm not looking forward to the 25 hour flights and hassle and BS associated with travel to Russia. I'd rather stay home and work- but you know, you do what you gotta do.
You can be a stinker about it like me. I refuse to go and have stuck to my word. She has traveled alone twice since coming in 2004. I'd much rather be on a beach somewhere or on a cruise ship.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-20 22:48:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusExchanging Money In Moscow
QUOTE (slim @ Feb 15 2008, 07:42 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Do you guys think it's possible with the Olympics coming and all that someday Moscow will join the rest of the world and have a modern airport, complete with free shuttle service that leaves straight from the terminal to the other terminal? (Going across the field, not around town?)

Or is it going to always be "it's Russia" and things will have to be done the most expensive and inconvenient way possible?
I'm keeping my bets with the second statement.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-15 10:56:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusExchanging Money In Moscow
QUOTE (Bobalouie @ Feb 14 2008, 04:17 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
15 minutes? more like 15 seconds. I am more than willing to pay $40 for the ride. That is what they charge for a cab ride minimum to the airport around here. Even if you live 1 mile from the airport, $40 please. Like Mox, I usually only have 1 hour or at most 1 hour 15 minutes to catch my flight to Sochi at SVO1. SVO1 is not a place I want to spend the night after traveling for 18 hours.
For $40 here you got a lot farther than the 1-2 miles it is from SVO1 to SVO2. Last time I rode in a taxi here for 1-2 miles on my employers tab it cost us like $6 and that is in San Francisco. Even an airport shuttle here in San Francisco is $15 covering about a 20 mile range.
http://www.sftravel.com/shutl.html
So I can now conclude you are sucker both at home and abroad tongue.gif
As discussed earlier their shared taxis and shuttles work on the clock and there are literally tens if not hundreds of them circling both airport lots. As for why it takes 15 minutes to haggle, if you speak Russian you realize you have to speak to many cabbies, get the price down to regular Russian rates, because after all I got to convince them I am a poor local student from Siberia. By the way, for 20 rubles I got ride on the same shared taxi to the nearest metro station Rechnoy Vakzal from SVO2. It is a good deal, and we were in the car a good hour, because of traffic. See metro map below:
http://www.waytoruss...w/MetroMap.html
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-14 19:37:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusExchanging Money In Moscow
QUOTE (seanconneryii @ Feb 14 2008, 02:27 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Russia buses and shuttles operate like the wind...variable. With a two-hour connection time for my flight to Siberia, I'm not paying roulette with missing the flight and sleeping in SVO 1 to save 60 clams. The true sucker counts his pennies as he sleeps on the airport floor.
Based on your "opinion" you have never been on Russia's buses, shuttles, or shared taxis. As a person who has ridden all three numerous time I can assure you they work like clock work. The US can learn a thing or two about public transit from the Russians. I probably made it from SVO1 to SVO2 in a shared taxi faster than in a taxi, because with a taxi I'd lose 15 minutes negotiating the price! And the only difference between a shared taxi and a regular one is how many seats and how many people ride with you. But hey, its your money, I just prefer to spend mine on something else.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-14 18:29:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusExchanging Money In Moscow
QUOTE (seanconneryii @ Feb 14 2008, 10:20 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Just got back from Russia. The cab fare between SVO 2 and SVO 1 was $60 (wanted to get $80 but i refused)! I paid $40 back in October. I think the cab mafia is getting very greedy. And, of course, Americans pay higher fares. I was in Siberia for almost a month. The costs are going through the roof.
You guys are just suckers, that's my conclusion after reading this over and over again. Last time I was going between SVO1 and SVO2 I paid 15 rubles to ride in a shared taxi with other Russians! Nobody would have charged me more even if I spoke English only.
Read before you travel:
http://www.sheremety...?act=part&pid=2
If you can't read have your fiancee read it to you!
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-14 16:21:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusExchanging Money In Moscow
Wow guys, the average Russians I know were lucky to make 5000 rubles a month and that lasted for 1 month. How do they manage to that, when everyone myself included will waste that in a week or less?
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-09 21:53:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusExchanging Money In Moscow
QUOTE (shikarnov @ Feb 9 2008, 06:32 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I bank with Wachovia and whenever I use one of the local ATMs, I get charged $8.
Wow, that's high. Washington Mutual charges $3 per ATM transaction. But I heard First Republic Bank charges nothing. See:
http://www.firstrepu.../atmrebate.html
As for credit card use. Both American Express and US Bank charge some kind of international transaction fee. Capital one has no such charge. This is based on experience.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-09 14:47:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusExchanging Money In Moscow
QUOTE (mox @ Feb 8 2008, 10:39 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Yeah I think once you've proposed, all trust issues are either resolved or should have been resolved.
I have read too many sad stories on here from once happy Russian forum VJ members to know this is far from the truth.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-08 20:55:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusExchanging Money In Moscow
QUOTE (KGSodie @ Feb 8 2008, 09:15 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
One thought is to western union the money to myself or Natasha, for pickup in Moscow. Another suggestion I got was to open an account at a bank in Moscow remotely and wire the money that way.
Western Union will charge 10% which is huge in comparison to ATM charges and wiring money can be as high as $50 and you need a bank account in Russia. If you wire to your fiancée you need to trust her she won't dump you and take the money.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-08 12:36:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusExchanging Money In Moscow
Whenever I went for my three month excursions I took about $4,000 cash and had no problems. ATM also has another small draw back, your bank might take some kind of conversion fee which calculated gets you a worse exchange rate. Likewise most bank charge some kind of per transaction fee for not using their ATM machines. But those are small costs if you are scared of getting robbed.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-08 12:21:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusPolice Report Translation?
QUOTE (seanconneryii @ Feb 24 2008, 12:11 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
So...my question is does the police report have to be translated into English for the folks at the NVC? Or is just sending the original Russian document OK?
Where in the past I would say NO to translation because the police report is going to US embassy in Russia and is used to issue a visa only and not for any other purpose back in the US. But if requested to send one to the NVC, an agency in the US, I would go ahead and translate it because they are not expected to be proficient in Russian as the US embassy is Moscow is, even though they'll probably send it to them anyway. Have it translated in Russia to save a few bucks.
See:
http://travel.state....195.html#police

Edited by Satellite, 24 February 2008 - 03:26 PM.

SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-24 15:25:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusI-134 Questions
QUOTE (irish44 @ Feb 25 2008, 03:58 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
5. Any more tips?
Don't bother with figuring out how much your personal and real property is worth, along with any other assets if your income alone is well beyond 125% of the poverty line. Back up that income with W2's, recent tax returns, and employment letter. If all is in order, the bank letter likewise is not needed.
SatelliteMaleRussia2008-02-25 11:25:00