ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
US Embassy and Consulate Discussionwill they interview me?
QUOTE (mchiang @ Apr 14 2009, 10:33 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (toddandhien @ Apr 14 2009, 06:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
The letter you received last week was from the National Visa Center (NVC). It is a form letter that most everyone receives. Yes, it is "signed" Bureau of Consular Affairs but it is from NVC.

Most cases get processed at NVC quickly and will make it to the consulate/embassy in 2-3 weeks. Occasionally, a case will get selected for additional processing at NVC. If you want to know if your case has left NVC and been sent to HCM, you need to call them and speak to an operator. They will ask for the case number from your letter.

On your timeline, the date they tell you it has been sent is your "Left NVC" date, not the date of your letter.

If you click on Immigration Timelines above, you can watch a video on filling out your timeline.

Good luck with the rest of your journey.



On that letter I received from the NVC, there was nothing about a date when they going to send it. It just say my fiancee will should receive a packet. So my date on my timeline about the NVC should be "received", not "sent" right? And what my immigration status should be? I put AOS approved. Am I not there yet? As you can see, I still have a few things to figure out about this place. I see you also have a petition for your fiancee in Vietnam. Is that correct? I wish you and your fiancee good luck.


1. When your petition was approved, this was not AOS approved. This is called NOA2. It means your fiancee is now eligible to apply for a visa in her home country.

2. The letter from NVC is a standard letter that we all get saying that they have your case and will send it to the consulate. They do not manage any dates or any part of the visa application process in HCM for K-1 visas.

3. Call NVC at this number: 603-334-0700. You are K-1 so you need to talk to an operator. Give them your case number when they ask and tell them that you want to know the status of your case. They will tell you the day that they received your case. If they do not, you can ask. This is the NVC RECEIVED date in the timeline.

4. They will either say that you are in AP (this can be a long wait) or they have not finished processing it or they have sent it to HCM. If they have sent it to HCM, they can tell you the date it was sent. This is the NVC LEFT date. Do not use the date of the letter for anything in the timeline.

5. When your case gets to HCM, your fiancee will get Packet 3 in the mail within a couple of weeks. There is no date for this, it is based on when the consulate gets to your case and how fast the VN mail system works sad.gif . This is where her work begins in actually applying for the visa. The consulate in HCM will now be the only US government organization that you and she will deal with up to and including when she has her interview.

6. After she gets a visa and comes to the US and you marry her, ONLY THEN you can file for Adjustment of Status (AOS). Right now you are K-1 that filed I-129F.

And, yes, my fiancee is currently waiting for Packet 4 to come in the mail which will tell us her interview date. Good luck to both of you, as well! smile.gif

Edited by toddandhien, 15 April 2009 - 11:39 AM.

toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-15 11:37:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussionwill they interview me?
QUOTE (mchiang @ Apr 14 2009, 03:29 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Sorry but I'm new here and still not sure exactly how to do the timeline and also what everything really means. To give you an idea of where I am. Just last week, I received a letter from the Bureau of Consular Affairs stating that my fiancee will soon receive a packet with instructions from the consular section on how to apply for the K1 visa. So I don't know if my status under my username is correct or not. I will try to do my timeline the best I can.


The letter you received last week was from the National Visa Center (NVC). It is a form letter that most everyone receives. Yes, it is "signed" Bureau of Consular Affairs but it is from NVC.

Most cases get processed at NVC quickly and will make it to the consulate/embassy in 2-3 weeks. Occasionally, a case will get selected for additional processing at NVC. If you want to know if your case has left NVC and been sent to HCM, you need to call them and speak to an operator. They will ask for the case number from your letter.

On your timeline, the date they tell you it has been sent is your "Left NVC" date, not the date of your letter.

If you click on Immigration Timelines above, you can watch a video on filling out your timeline.

Good luck with the rest of your journey.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-14 18:31:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussionwill they interview me?
QUOTE (mchiang @ Apr 13 2009, 04:20 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi everyone. I just got my fiancee petition approved. I know there there will be an interview for her. However, I heard from someone once she is over here, I will have to get interview. Is that right? I was just curious.


please take a look at your info panel...filed for: AOS? But you say just got your petition approved.

also, if you fill in your timeline, we will all be able to better help you. Thanks!
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-13 16:31:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionWhat should I do?
QUOTE (Scott & LC @ Apr 20 2009, 11:05 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello... I just found out that my interview is to be on the 28th April too! But I just rescheduled it today to make it on the 28th May. It was a fairly easy task, as all I had to do is email them consulate. However, as I'm a Malaysian and not from Vietnam. I believe it's totally different issue there. Maybe you should call up the embassy and ask them if you're to reschedule, when will the interview be. I find that having 10 days to prepare everything is just insane. Especially, now that you only have a week left. It'll just be too hectic.

Wish you all the best!

1. You can no longer call the consulate in HCM and speak to a human

2. e-mail responses take 4-5 business days

3. Reschedules are dropped out 3 months

4. If they are prepared in all other ways other than getting a few documents in her hands, they will be no worse off. But if they have made no preparations and are just beginning now, I agree they should reschedule. Erik's call.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-20 11:30:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionWhat should I do?
QUOTE (ERIKandCHINH @ Apr 17 2009, 09:20 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Ok, great news! Answered prayers. The houston vietinfo network is a yahoo groups thingy I subscribe to. Iasked on there and someone sent me the contact info for Jennifer Nguyen here in NW Houston. I called her and will go to her office on Monday. She can get me a visa in a day (some expedited service). The total cost she quoted me is $120.00 I asked her if that would get me the visa and if that was the total charge she said yes. I will be in her office on monday am. I will post back and let you all know how it goes.

I think that is it. I only have to pack now. Thanks for all of the input and advice. I may have really screwed up without you all. Kepp me in your prayers and God bless you all.

BTW Jennifer Nguyens # is 832-573-7411

Erik


Good luck
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-17 21:50:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionWhat should I do?
QUOTE (ERIKandCHINH @ Apr 17 2009, 08:30 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I talked with Chinh. Her hometown is in the coastal center and she is in HCMC. She is going to call a classmate who is a policeman in her hometown. I told her I'd pay him if he could kick it in the #######. I don't know if she can get it in time. She said he is the one who delivered it to the office for her. Apparently she filled out the form and sent it to him to deliver so she didn't have to take a 24 hour bus ride each way. I don't know if that is good or bad. She will call him this morning (her time).

Now the visa... What is a landing visa? If I layover in San Fransisco for a couple of hours, can I take a cab to the consulate and get it?

I asked the local Viet groups on yahoo and someone gave me a ladies name and said she can get it for me in the same day. Sound safe to you?


Hard to speculate on what was right or wrong before. But for 1,000,000 VND, I'm sure her friend will have it for her on Monday or Tuesday.

Sorry, some Asians call them landing visas. For VN, it is called visa upon arrival. You must get approved in advance (takes 2 days). They send you an approval form. You take it on your trip. When you get to SGN, you will use it to get a visa there at the airport. A previous poster offered this link. That should work if you click on visa-upon-arrival link inside.

http://www.myvietnam...a-hongkong.html

I am not sure if you could go to the consulate and get it or not. You could call and ask them I suppose. Just be damn sure because if you strike out, you will be going back home.


toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-17 19:52:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionWhat should I do?
Erik, are you sure the interview is April 28, not May 28? My fiancee also received Packet 4 today and her interview is May 27. Another VJ member received his today as well and his date is May 26.

I'm sure you are correct, but just confirming to avoid you rushing there if not necessary.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-17 17:51:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionWhat should I do?
QUOTE (ERIKandCHINH @ Apr 17 2009, 02:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
What about the police record? If we have everything else, but haven't received the police record yet, will that prevent the interview? or will they just give her whatever colored slip and say bring this back when you get it?


Slow down a little to avoid making mistakes. 10 days is PLENTY of time to do what you need to do but you have to have a good, well thought out plan. If you get ahead of yourself you might miss this window.

1. Decide when you will leave. You will have to leave no later than May 25 to get there on the May 27 before her interview. This will help drive your visa decision.

2. The visa. Do not panic. You have 2 options. You can expedite it in the US (this has risks because FedEx and the Vietnamese Embassy are involved.) The embassy that processes visa requests is in CA, SFO I think. You would have to use a visa service like CIBT or Travel Visa Pro. They fax your forms and a copy of your passport and the VN embassy FedEx's a loose visa to them to paperclip in your passport. I have done this but it is nerve-wracking to play beat the clock. Or you can get a landing visa. Work with a travel agent and they can arrange for you to get a visa when you arrive in SGN. For you, this would be the safest bet. I have not done it but others on VJ have. search VJ for vietnam visa.

3. The Ly Lich Tu Phap. They usually work on Saturdays. Tell Chinh to go there as EARLY in the morning (tomorrow) as possible. By 9 AM if she can. If it has in fact been a few weeks, it should be done or damn near it. She may have to "help" them remember where they put it. For the right "help", I am sure it will materialize by Monday. You have all next week for her to work this but this has got to be her #1 job.

4. She should not go to the interview without the police certificate. It is one of the mandated documents that she was told about when she got Packet 3. They might interview her (not sure) but they will give her holy hell in the process if they do. Avoid this at all costs!

Good luck
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-17 15:45:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionWhat should I do?
QUOTE (ERIKandCHINH @ Apr 17 2009, 11:51 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I see in the documents they sent her that she can request to delay the interview, but I don't know if she can request to delay the interview or reschedule it for a certain time or date, or if they would reschedule it for some other unknown time. It is impossible to get a person on the phone at the Consulates office, so I don t want to delay it indefinitely, perhaps months. Maybe in that case it would be better to attend the interview illprepared and then take the documents when they arrive??? I dont know.

I would like to attend the interview, but she works for an American employer there and will give them a months notice. It is required for many reasons (I tried to talk her out of it, but her severence pay is dependant on it and she may have continued employment with the company here in the States). I cant stay in Vietnam for a month again. Also she wants to have a wedding party sort of thing for her family and that will be in the first of June (when we thought this would come about based on timelines). So I will not attend the interview because I cant fly back twice in 2 months.
So now I am franticly trying to get the doc's together and will FedEx them, but what if they are not there by the interview date? Will that reflect so poorly that the Consulate will damn the paperwork. Which is my best choice? Delay the interview? Can we delay it until a certain date, like say... May 10th? or is that there discretion? Or should she go to the interview and say "I don't have those documents yet"? Will they give her a request for more info and tell her to come back when she gets the doc's?

I know this is my fault. I should have been prepared for this and not given so much credit to how long it normally takes. But now what? Has anyone ever delayed an interview?


I agree almostawesome, I am not sure if I can pull it off. It is 10 days away. I don't know if I can get away from work.


Erik,

I will offer some frank advice:

1. Here is what the HCM consulate website says about delays:

How can I re-schedule an interview appointment?

If you have missed your interview appointment or you would like to re-schedule an upcoming appointment, you should send a written request to our office for a new appointment. The re-scheduled interview date will be approximately three months after we receive the written request. Your case may be terminated if you fail to pursue the application within one year of the original interview date.

So, yes you can delay it but no you cannot choose your new date and no it will not be quick. And you cannot call them because they have gone to an all-automated system. e-mails take 4 working days to receive a response.

2. As others have said in different ways, you have put a lot into this and intend to spend your life with this person. Look at the BIG PICTURE. Think strategic, not tactical. You have a time problem right now, compounded by a tough and demanding consulate. If you send her in there without the docs she needs, she will not fair well. Some of the docs are simply required and she will not be interviewed without them (like the I-134). The evidence, as we all know, is critical. If she is counting on that material to help her get approved, she likely will not. Do you really want to put a young lady in that type of a situation?? They will NOT be kind to her.

3. Being there with her for the interview is a good idea and certainly will ensure she has the paperwork. Come up with a grand and get on a plane, pronto. I just booked my ticket this morning and it cost me $1100 from Boston to HCM and back. And that was for travelling on May 21. Yours would be less to travel next week, I'm sure.

4. Project your thoughts forward. Think about how you will feel if she gets white-slipped and your case is returned to USCIS. What will you wish you had done differently? Whatever that is, do it.

5. First get approved! Everything after that is secondary. You can go now and get it done and go home. She has 6 months to come to the US. Pick a new wedding ceremony date in VN and a new arrival date here. She can adjust her notice date with her employer and you can save your pennies for a few months waiting with NO RISK OR WORRIES. If she does not pass, your problems will be SO MUCH bigger.

Up to you in the end. Good luck with whatever path you choose.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-17 11:42:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussionthe power of the two bit bureaucrat
Decker, sorry about your troubles.

But just curious...you say to do what you were told the first time. I could not see in your post what she was told to do but did not do. What would you do differently?

Good luck to you both. You are almost there.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-20 11:24:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionMail System
QUOTE (jasman0717 @ Mar 5 2009, 02:56 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I am totally amazed that mail is delivered in the Philippines. Any mail with money in it gets lost blink.gif


Vietnam's mail tends to be spotty in terms of delivery. As with the OP, I was initially worried about my fiancee receiving mail in her village but after sending cards and letters for many months, I know that mail from the US takes 10-30 days to be delivered. So it DOES arrive, just not predictably. Hopefully they can get mail from HCM to her village 4 hours away without great delay. I plan to wait 4-5 days after they say they have mailed packet 3 for her to receive it. If she does not, I will e-mail the consulate and ask if she can come by and pick it up in person.

I do not send packages or money in the mail. Not worth it. If they lose a letter, no problem.

Also, a heads-up for anyone whose fiancee lives in a small rural village in a developing country. They do not get or send a lot of mail and there is no postman. If they do not go to the post office and ask, the mail may just sit for a long time. The "post office" is a room in someone's house in the middle of the village.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-03-05 20:28:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionClarify Instructions PLEASE
QUOTE (thepizzadude @ Apr 27 2009, 12:21 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (toddandhien @ Apr 26 2009, 08:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Regarding you not receiving any notification: You are not applying for a visa, she is. Your part is done. Communication from the consulate now is only with her.


Maybe u should check up on your info a little more...this really depends on the country....

Excerpts from Actual Visa Interviews at Consulate:

#1 Our interview experience in Manila US Embassy went really well..
Our appointment is at 7a and arrived there approximately 5a. The first hour was mainly triple checking our documents and a whole lot of waiting game. At about 6:45a all applicant with 0700 hrs appointment were then allowed to go inside through security point. We sat for another 15 minutes before we were told to take our appointment letter, DS-157/156/156k out. We were told to make sure all fields were filled in before obtaining our ticket # which then were used through out the whole process. Approximately half an hour after, our number were called for biometrics (fingerprints) this took only about 10 minutes. Then again a whole lot of waiting game.....it was somewhere between 7:30-8:00a...and yes more waiting..hmmm..hmmm...Alas! our number were called for the second time for pre-screaning at 8:15a. The set up was pretty straight forward, a glass window between Filipina lady and my fiance and I. She was very pleasant and kind. First question was addressed to benefiaciary, plain and simple (your name and date of birth). Next question was similar to question 18 in the I-129F (how did you guys meet?), with this question we were both talking to her since it was addressed to both of us. Third question was addressed to me (petitioner). She simply asked me how many times I have visited her? I simply stated "this is my 4th visit" and that was that. Then she asked for my I-134 (affidavit of support) along with supporting documents such as, 2008 tax statement (1040) and W2's. She also asked for emails, YM archives, photos together and phone bills.....etc.....


FYI: during question and answer portion she was jotting down everything we said. At this point, most question was addressed to me as if it was my interview. In the end she congratulated us and asked to take a seat while we'll wait for our number to be called. All this took only about 10 minutes..Wheew! that was nice! We took our seat for another 15 minutes or so..Then the final moment arrived, interview with the consular officer! the set up was almost the same as the pre-screaning, a glass window between CO and my fiance and I but with a bit more private (small room) with closed door behind us. First and foremost casual greeting, (Good morning! How's it going..blah blah blah..)The CO was about in his early 30's very cool guy, he even apologized for the waiting we all had endured..I simply said It's all worth it! he smiled. Then he had us sweared in under US law that all information and statements were true..We both said yes and thats where the question came in..


#2 YAHOO! we just received our family-based immigrant visas via courier. i just want to share our experience at the us embassy in manila. we got there at 6 am for our 6:30 interview. we had to line up outside, but the line moved through quickly. more lines and waiting inside, but they were very organized. everyone from the security guards to the fingerprinting agent, to the document screener, to the american interviewer were friendly, courteous and helpful. we were done and out of the embassy by 9:30 am. my only advice is to relax, be yourself, be honest, be courteous and make sure all your original documents and forms are complete and valid. as long as there is nothing fraudulent or incomplete about your case, you should have no problems.
GOOD LUCK to all who await their visa interviews! may the LORD bless you as HE has blessed us.


Sorry if it seems terse, I just get sick of people giving information to others about such an important event when they have no clue.... wow.gif

pizza, I was responding to the OP because I know that he is going through the consulate in HCM, which you are not. As you note, it depends on the country. Every question has a context and that was one of them in this case, because he was not asking a generic question. This was a consulate specific enquiry. Do you have any idea which embassy or consulate your excerpt is referring to? I feel pretty sure that it was not HCM.

In addition, he was not inquiring about interview protocol, he was curious why he had not received any mail regarding the interview. Please have YOUR facts together before you choose to flame someone. Thanks.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-27 15:15:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionClarify Instructions PLEASE
Regarding you not receiving any notification: You are not applying for a visa, she is. Your part is done. Communication from the consulate now is only with her.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-26 20:19:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionClarify Instructions PLEASE
QUOTE (ERIKandCHINH @ Apr 26 2009, 09:08 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
So I dont need to send anything, I can take it with me correct?

Erik,

The guides say send because some folks cannot go to be with their loved one. TAKE everything with you when you go. Everything you and she need to know about the forms to bring, the order that they should be assembled in, etc, is all in the packet 4 instructions. If you are not clear, have her PDF or fax the instructions to you so you can read them.

She will also need to fill out DS-156 and DS-156K. Has she had her medical exam yet?
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-26 20:13:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionDS-156/DS-156K/DS-230 Part I
QUOTE (John24689 @ Mar 21 2009, 06:16 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Badgerella @ Mar 21 2009, 01:49 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My K-1 interview is getting closer and I've been looking into the forms I need to fill in.

In Croatia, the Embassy sends you your Packet 3 and Packet 4 together and it includes the forms that need to be brought to the interview. I received a DS-156, DS-156K and a DS-230 Part I. I've read online (both on the USEM website and here) that one needs to make sure they're filling and then turning in a valid form. The forms, also, must be in English (at least in some countries, there are 'help' forms, translated to various languages that help the applicants do the right thing). All of the forms have 'Previous editions obsolete' printed at the bottom of every page. However, the DS-156 I received is in Croatian and it expired on August 31st 2004 (information found in the upper right corner). DS-156K is full of stains, but othervise - usable and non expired (exp date: 09/30/2010). DS-230 Part I is also valid and a little bit stained (both have the weird 'mark' at the top of the sheet, that could be from either the printer or some sort of a paperclip). I only have one page of the latter, but the form itself says 'Page 1 of 4'. Is this enough, just the first page (I would assume that Part I means exactly this, just one page, but I guess one can never be sure).

I called the Embassy to ask about the expired/Croatian form and the lady said it didn't really matter much - according to her, I could either bring whatever they sent me, or print my own copies. I'd still like to do it the best possible way. So far I have learned that what I see on their website, or even hear from them, can never be 100% accurate. She said that the K-1 visas are not processed electronically and that I can't fill them in online the way I would do them prior to a B2 interview (I've applied for four visitor visas to the US in the past and I've always done my DS-156 online. After that, one is supposed to print it out and a bring a copy to the interview.)

The questions I have are the following:
1. Should I print out the forms that can be acquired online, at least the expired DS-156? That way I'd have a copy that's both in English and not expired. The size of the paper will differ from what they sent me (they use the American standards at the Embassy and I only have European printing paper).
I would get the new forms. Paper size should not make a difference.
2. Should I fill in the forms by hand, or on the computer? Does it even matter?
It does not matter. Computer would be better.


I also have a number of questions regarding the information I need to provide.

DS-156:
* Question #22: When do you intend to arrive in the U.S.?
On the day of my interview, I won't be able to provide an answer to this question. We plan to have me there sometime in the summer, but it could really be any date, during the validity of my K-1 visa.
After my Visa is approved and received, I will fly to the US.
* Question #26: How long do you intend to stay in the U.S.?
What does one say here? 'Forever'?
For the rest of my life.
* Question #27: What is the purpose of your trip?
Here, as well?
To get married to my fiancee.
* Question #32: Do you intend to work in the U.S.?
This one is unclear as well - yes, I do, but of course after I've been issued a permit. During my non-immigrant days (prior to the marriage and AP/AOS, of course I do not).
Yes, after I receive my work authorization.
* Question #33: Do you intend to study in the U.S.?
Again, no, that is not the purpose of my trip and I would not, before I have adjusted my status, etc. But whether or not I ever will - I do not know. Simply - I might.
I may one day in the future.
* Question #34: Names and relationships of persons traveling with you
Nobody is intending to immigrate, but I might have someone traveling with me. We plan to have my mother come to the US with me, but on the interview day, I won't know for sure. If she'll be there, it'll be a B2 trip. However, I won't know much about this a few months prior to the actual trip. If it's not my mother, it could be, basically, anyone (my fiance, perhaps, my sister..) who will decide or be able to travel with me, whenever I do.
No. I think they are talking about your child or children for a K-2 visa.
* Question #36: Has anyone ever filed an immigrant visa petition on your behalf?
No one ever has. I've only applied for B2 visas and this is my one and only K-1, ever. Considering the fact that K-1 is a nonimmigrant visa, I would assume I answer 'No' to this one.
No.

DS-156K:
* Question #4: Marital status; d) if presently married, how will you marry your U.S. citizen fiance(e)? Explain* (*NOTE - If presently married to anyone, you are not eligible for a fiance(e) visa.
What is the purpose of this option? It does not apply to me, but.. I am curious.
I don't know about this one. I would probably answer "Not Married."

One of the documents that must be attached in order to apply for a fiance(e) nonimmigrant visa is 'Evidence of Engagement to your fiance(e). What, exactly, is that? Another signed 'Intent to marry' letter? I can't think of any other evidence I could provide, that would be acceptable in form of a document. I do have a Croatian official document stating that I am single and planning to marry my fiance (both our names are listed on it) and that our marriage will be recognized by the Croatian law whenever I come here, but I assume this is not what the form wants me to provide.

Check the Guides above. http://www.visajourn...mp;page=k1guide
There are many things you need to get together and your fiancee needs to send you a lot of documents before the interview: pictures, e-mails, letters, original documents.

I might be overcomplicating here, but I can't help it. When I see a form I need to fill in, I go - nuts. wink.gif

Thank you for your patience, as well as any and all help! star_smile.gif



I think John has offered good advice here. I would also add that DS-230 was just updated in February and changed a fair bit. Now rev 02-2009, previous editions obsolete.

Which document is evidence of engagement to your fiance(e)? does it have a document number?
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-03-23 15:53:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionDS-156/DS-156K/DS-230 Part I
QUOTE (Badgerella @ Mar 22 2009, 03:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
One more question I am unsure about:

DS-230 Part I
* Question #23: List below all educational institutions attended. (School and location; From/To; Course of Study; Degree or Diploma)
What all does this include? Elementary, high school, college? Private additional schools? Courses that are completed outside 'regular' school, that also give me a degree of some sort? For instance, for 17 years I attended English lessons at a private language school. I have a diploma, as well as a diploma/degree issued by the Cambridge University in the UK. Does this go on the list, too? Considering the fact there are only four lines on the actual form, and if all my education is to be listed, I won't have enough room to list them all. Do I add an additional sheet, the way we did for our I-129f and the other forms that were sent to the USCIS?


You are well-schooled; moreso than most applicants, I suspect. But yes, I would include high school, college, anything that has an actual degree or diploma associated with it at completion. Should be formal schooling. If not enough room, instructions say to attach additional sheets, but maybe you can rationalize the best 4?

Good luck
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-03-23 15:48:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionI-134 for K1 visa
QUOTE (JimVaPhuong @ Jun 3 2009, 08:41 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (jeromebinh @ Jun 3 2009, 04:31 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (toddandhien @ Jun 2 2009, 10:47 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
It is now not required, as noted above. I asked the HCM consulate a few months ago about this since the paperwork in packet 3 still references the need to have it notarized. They confirmed that it does not. However, I would recommend using the LATEST version of the form, which has no place to sign, just to be clear.



IT IS TRUE THAT IN PACKET 3 STILL MENTION ABOUT THS FORM NOTARIZED.VERY CONFUSED AT SOME POINTS IN THIS PACKET 3.


I've heard that the checklist being sent from the consulate in Ho Chi Minh still states that the I-134 needs to be notarized. I've seen others post that they've contacted the consulate and were told that HCM accepts the new I-134, and that it does not need to be notarized. However, for your own peace of mind you should contact the consulate about this yourself.

I actually printed out the e-mail response that I got from the consulate stating that it was acceptable and sent it into the interview with Hien...just in case they said anything. But, there was no problem at all with the I-134 that I submitted (latest version with no notarized signature).

The only thing that the woman did not like about the package Hien handed to her was that I had copied her ENTIRE passport...every page (they said copy of her passport so I gave it to them). She did not want the cover or the blank pages inside, only the pages with her photo and personal information. The other pages were ripped off and given back to her to take home. Better too much than not enough, I think.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-06-03 11:28:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionI-134 for K1 visa
It is now not required, as noted above. I asked the HCM consulate a few months ago about this since the paperwork in packet 3 still references the need to have it notarized. They confirmed that it does not. However, I would recommend using the LATEST version of the form, which has no place to sign, just to be clear.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-06-02 10:47:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussionconsulate interview and co-sponsor (Vietnam, K1)
QUOTE (almostawesome @ Apr 19 2009, 04:07 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thanks everyone for your help and wishes. Any chance proving a relationship with the co-sponsor may help? A letter from the co-sponsor? A picture of all 3 of us together in Vietnam?

You mentioned before that you intended to contact the consulate next week to inquire about co-sponsorship with a K-1. Please let us all know what their response is.

Again, you would be well-served if your evidence is overwhelming and well organized and your fiancee is very well prepared.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-19 17:58:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussionconsulate interview and co-sponsor (Vietnam, K1)
QUOTE (almostawesome @ Apr 17 2009, 04:37 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Bobby_Umit @ Apr 17 2009, 12:54 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (almostawesome @ Apr 17 2009, 03:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Thanks for the input, everyone.

Next question. When I filled out the sponsorship documents I was working and making a little above the requirements for sponsorship. There were a couple reasons I applied with a cosponsor. I have since been laid-off from that job, and am working part time while I find new work. Could/Would/Will the consulate know or learn that I no longer work where my application says I did?



I would not recommend to lie.

They could always try to call your company to check up on it. (remember, one of the pieces of supporting evidence is a letter from your boss detailing your job/salary/etc..)


Are they going to be looking into the case, as the interview approaches? If so, what kind of things are they looking at/for?
I don't think I would lie about it, but I wonder if I would ever even have to.


It is VERY likely the CO will ask your fiancee where you work and what you do. If she describes your former position, she will be lying.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-17 17:46:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussionconsulate interview and co-sponsor (Vietnam, K1)
It seems to be generally understood here on VJ that K-1 visas do not get approved with co-sponsorship at the HCM consulate. The woman assisting your fiancee may be correct in what she is saying (10%). Perhaps if you have a case with overwhelming evidence, you can be part of that 10%?

It is great that you are going there for the interview. But, please prepare yourself for the fact that this may not turn out well. I really hope that you get approved, but maybe some contingency planning now might be in order. Please do some reading in the regional forum and you can see for yourself what others are doing. I understand that if you get married in VN and file IR-1/CR-1 you can use co-sponsorship with the I-865.

By the way, you cannot call the consulate directly. The phone system is automated and you cannot speak with an operator. E-mail requests typically take 4 business days to get a response.

Best of luck to you both.

Edited by toddandhien, 17 April 2009 - 11:55 AM.

toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-17 11:54:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussionissued interview date
QUOTE (Mike and Thanh @ Jun 9 2009, 07:55 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I have been emailing back and forth with the Ho Chi Minh Consulate for a few weeks. Last week I asked them if they have receive my fiancee's packet 3 information. Today, I got an email back from them saying they have indeed received it, sent out packet 4 and said the interview date is on July 30th at 9:30am. I was emailing them because my fiancee never received packet 3. She had to print out the forms online and mailed them out. Packet 3 probably was lost in the mail. What if packet 4 never gets to her and somehow lost again? However, packet 4 info was attached with the email. Can she print out the forms online and bring them in? Will they let her in like this?

At this point, I'm very nervous. I think this is the most nervous I have been through this whole petition process. I just hope the interview goes smoothly and she pass without any problems. Also, if I'm not there when she goes in for the interview, will that be ok? Can I go there when she pass the interview and get the visa? Have anyone went the same route like this? I'm not sure if I should go back and be there with her when she goes in for the interview. I know in Ho Chi Minh, even I go there, I have to wait outside. So I don't think it will make any difference if I'm there or not besides maybe provide her with emotional support. I know this have been asked before, but forgive me. I'm just a nervous wreck right now.

Go if you can. You will not regret it. If she gets approved, bring her home with you. If not, you can be there to deal with the consulate. if you are planning to go after anyway, my advice would be to not wait. Go early, help her prep and wait outside like the rest of us.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-06-12 12:39:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussiontax transcript question
The availability of your 2008 tax transcript will depend on whether you had a refund coming or owed money. When I called on April 20, they told me that they process refund returns into the system before money due returns. They said that I should call back on May 1 to inquire again. Everything should be available by the end of May.

Edited by toddandhien, 27 April 2009 - 03:01 PM.

toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-27 15:00:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionHCMC turned in requested items told now under review
QUOTE (MichaelAndKha @ Aug 15 2009, 12:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello Everyone,

I've been following this forum for some time and now just wanted to join the conversation because i am going through the same thing here.

My fiance had her first interview last month and was given a blue sheet requesting a signed and notarized timeline of our relationship. So I provided it to them.

Now, she just had her second interview and was given another blue sheet. This is what it says:

QUOTE
The Consulate General is unable to issue a visa to you because you been found ineligible for her visa under the following section9s) of the US Immigration and nationality Act, as amended.

*Your case requires additional processing in our office. You do not need to submit furter documents. We will contact you when we have finished processing your case. Case inquiries may be made by e-mail <hcmcinfo@state.gov> or by mail.


This came as a surprise because, I thought for sure she would get her visa this time around. I even made plans to visit her in Vietnam next month for an engagement ceremony. I even bought my plane tickets because it so cheap now and I have a two week vacation time.

I'm thinking of contacting the Consulate office and try to set up an interview while I'm there in Vietnam. Maybe that will prove our relationship is the real deal. Is this a good idea?

My fiance is worried that our case will expire soon. She seems to think that the K-1 visa application process is good for only 9 month. I never heard of this. Is this true?

We also discussed an alternative to this: Getting married while I'm in Vietnam, is this possible? We might try this if we don't get her a visa by the time I get to Vietnam.

Good luck to everybody else that's in the same boat.

Michael

The consulate in HCM has open call from 4-5 PM on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. You can just show up and talk to a CO. I don't think you can get an appt.

Please be careful about just jumping into a marriage while you are there. You have a pending K-1, which would become invalid if you are married. You need to wait for the disposition of this case before selecting a different course of action. Read the history on the East Asia forum and you will find many others who have been in your situation, along with advice on what to do and what not to do.

The CO can continue to extend the validity of the petition if they believe that there is still a valid case. Good luck.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-08-15 17:00:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionHousehold Registration Book
Ho khau is prononounced "How-cow" if you need to say it to her on the phone.

If at all possible, I would hand carry it to the consulate and give it to the lady at the window. That's the only SURE way that you can know that they got it. I also e-mailed them the day that Hien dropped it off, knowing that it would be 4-5 days before they responded. My e-mail simply asked them to confirm that they had receipt of the DS-230 Part I. This was their response:

"Dear Mr. Todd:

Thank you for your inquiry. We have already received the beneficiary's completed DS-230 Part I. Our office will schedule an appointment at the earliest opportunity. Once a visa interview appointment has been set, we will notify the applicant by mail. Please contact us at the end of each month for further information about the appointment date.

If you have further inquiries, please do not delete your original email and please include the complete case number (HCM XXXX-XXX-XXX) in all correspondence.


Sincerely,

Information Team

Consular Section

U.S. Consulate General HCMC"


toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-10-21 16:54:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionAny one dealt with denied visa under INA 221(g)
Did they say that more documentation was required or that no further information is needed? It sounds like you are in AP, which just means that you have to wait until they make a decision. Sorry.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-10-27 18:22:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionDid we get the Approval?
The actual visa is a sticker they paste in her passport that has her photo, name, etc and validity date, along with your name. You can see a sample in the gallery. It clearly says VISA UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. The brown envelope has her file and medical info.

I would suggest that she contact the embassy and clear it up. I doubt you were denied, but if you were, it will become a problem when she gets to the US.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2010-01-25 17:46:00
CanadaUSC Employment Verification
QUOTE (July09Bride @ Mar 13 2009, 07:40 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I'm a teacher, and I got a letter of "employment" from the Personnel Director for my district. However, when he wrote the letter, he said that I have been employed with this district since August 2003 and made $XX amount during the 2008-2009 school year. He also wrote something about being a full-time employee in "good standing" for the 2008-2009 school year.

Well, I got worried when I got the letter back, because it only addresses the current school year, not the future. huh.gif BUT, we just (this week) were asked to complete a form as to whether or not we were planning returning for the 2009-2010 school year (original form to be returned to the school district). I made a copy of that form and plan on including it with our paperwork.

Should I request a different letter? Do you think I'll be okay with his letter and the form I had to return to the district office (it has the same gentleman's name on the letter and the form)?

Hmmm... helpsmilie.gif


Most employers are not wanting to speculate on future employment in writing. It could be argued that it was a breach of contract if you were to be terminated for any reason. But if you could get them to re-do the letter saying that you were "...an employee in good standing." that would probably be better.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-03-13 18:58:00
PhilippinesCFO
There are many, many aspects of this process that require patience and waiting. Just remember why you are doing it and perhaps that might help you stay calm.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-02-28 14:04:00
PhilippinesDS-156, interview in 10 hours!!
QUOTE (craigscomputer @ Mar 24 2009, 12:08 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
no, she's never been married before, she has her CENOMAR statement. We didn't fill in those boxes because there was nothing to put in them. Is it okay to write in on the form after it has been printed out?


If they require the DS-156 be done on-line and printed out (many embassies do, some don't) you cannot add information in any of the boxes after printing it out. Go back on-line and do a new one. The form is not submitted to the embassy on-line so don't worry about that. But, absolutely get the form right before she goes for the interview.

About what to put in the boxes. If none, put NONE.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-03-24 11:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsNOA1 or NOA2???
QUOTE (Tommyboy1834 @ Feb 28 2009, 01:56 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My I129 petition was received at USCIS Nov 26 2008 and i received a letter I-797C, Notice of Action.
On the letter says "Notice Type: Receipt Notice"

Is this the NOA1??

Today I received in another letter stating notice type: "Approval Notice".
also saying the NVC processing should be complete within two to four weeks after receiving the petition from USCIS.

Is this my NOA2??


YES and YES
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-02-28 13:57:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsProcessing time at VSC
QUOTE (Han & James @ Mar 2 2009, 05:36 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi guys,

Congratulation to all people who got NOA2 in this month. In this forum, I know they filed I-129K in November 2008, and now they get approval. But I'm wondering why the processing time in VJ is still Oct 15. I thought that they are processing case in orders. Is it wrong? Can anyone know and explain this?

Thank you very much...

Han & James


I believe that the date you are looking at will change regularly to reflect the date of the last updated petition approval on VJ. I know that when ours was approved in January, our date showed up for a few days and then actually went backwards when the next couple posted their date.

Unfortunately, the service centers do not process and approve them on a first-come, first-served basis. Many factors play into when a case will actually be adjudicated. I think the most accurate indicator of an adjudication date remains the VJ estimate for your case as shown in your timeline. We actually beat our VJ date by a couple of weeks so we were pretty happy!
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-03-02 12:55:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsAugust 2008 Filers
Hi folks,

Been a member for several months but my first post here. Want to let you all know that our petition was approved today by VSC! There really is hope for all of you out there feeling like it will never come!!

BTW, we were 166 on the NEW Igor's List when the approval came today. VJ said adjudication between January 22 and February 9.

Thanks to everyone for making this community so valuable. On to NVC and HCMC!!!

-Todd
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-01-14 16:29:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports90% done.
Congratulations!!! good.gif Very happy for all 3 of you!
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-07 11:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress ReportsK-1 Visa Approved
Congrats to a fellow NVC AP'er! It was worth the wait!!!!
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-05-18 20:14:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresQuestion on I-864?????
QUOTE (WadeS @ Mar 12 2009, 07:54 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Trinh Lý @ Mar 12 2009, 07:41 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I have a question about the Form I-864, someone was telling me that I don't need the last 3 years income tax, but just need the current (last) one. Is this the correct information? I am not really sure about this ... Can someone help me? Thanks


I just went threw this with my wife's app. They are correct about only needing 1 Years income tax forms. include irs form 1099 & your w-2's for that tax year
i think you still need to send them your last 3 pay stubs though.
hope it helps? good.gif


Trinh Lý, please use caution. Many consulates/embassies will have slightly different expectations of exactly what they want to see. HCM is a tough consulate and they tend to ask for more rather than the minimum. I urge you to read the consulate website and also carefully follow any instructions that are sent to your wife. If 3 years is optional on the I-864 it may be mandatory in HCM.

Edited by toddandhien, 12 March 2009 - 09:33 PM.

toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-03-12 21:32:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedureswhat happen if your case get revoke by USCIS
Andy, please post here exactly what is says in the denial letter. If you do, people will be better able to help you.
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-07 21:15:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Proceduresno entry/exit stamps on passport
QUOTE (tngirl21809 @ Apr 15 2009, 06:11 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
humm... that's weird. They all stamp at your passport, entry and exit place.


Not in Vietnam in all cases.

There have been several threads on this that the OP can read. Short answer: It is possible to go in and out of VN with no stamp if you have a loose (non-affixed) visa. Another VJ member was trying to find a way to get records from either the travel agent (no luck), the airlines (no luck) or the VN Government. I do not know what happened with VN, but I would be surprised if this yielded anything.

You will have to rely on photos as proof of your togtherness and other tangible evidence showing when you were in-country.


Hieumin, could you update your timeline please? and are you K-1 or IR-1/CR-1??

Edited by toddandhien, 15 April 2009 - 06:10 PM.

toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-04-15 18:08:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresNumber one
QUOTE (waleed's girl @ Oct 24 2009, 01:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
what is the the number one question asked during an interview....?

how/where did you meet your spouse or fiance(e)?
toddandhienMaleVietnam2009-10-24 12:44:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & ProceduresFail in travel visa will be failed in spouse visa ?

Having a rejected tourist visa won't hurt the spousal visa at all if the reason for the rejection was failure to establish sufficient ties to the home country. And that is the most common reason for rejection of a tourist visa.

If the reason for the rejection of the tourist visa was something else, such as lying on a visa form, or a criminal background, then that would still be a reason to reject the spousal visa, so it would still present a problem. This isn't common, but is possible.

It isn't the stated reason for the rejection that is the cause for concern here. The OP is from Vietnam, which is a high fraud post. The concern that I have on behalf of the OP is that they are appearing very anxious to get to the US and in Vietnam, that can make a CO very suspicious about motive/intent. They now have 3 applications (well, 2 applications and a petition) in 4 months. Also, the timing of the marriage will come into play. If you were married before September, why were you trying to visit a friend in the US instead of your spouse?

Specifically, just applying for a tourist visa will not hurt your chances for a spouse visa...many people do this without problems. But you need to assess your personal circumstances and be fully prepared to address the questions that could arise at the interview.

OP, does your USC husband live with you in Viet Nam?
toddandhienMaleVietnam2010-02-01 12:27:00