Forum	Title	Content	Member	Sex	Country	Date/Time
Asia: East and Pacific	I have not birth certificate????	you need a birth certificate to file the petition with USCIS. How did you file without that?	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-03-31 21:20:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Police records in Vietnem	QUOTE (hniHnitsuJ @ Mar 30 2009, 04:50 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (toddandhien @ Mar 29 2009, 08:41 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (ERIKandCHINH @ Mar 28 2009, 11:46 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Hi All, My fiancee got the forms today to get her police records. Does this form need to be translated to english for the interview? If so, where do you get that done and how much should it cost? Thanks, Erik Not sure what you mean, "got the forms today to get her police records"? But, when she gets her Ly Lich Tu Phap it does not need to be translated according to consulate instructions. Anything other than English or Vietnamese must be translated. However, she will need all of her documents in English for AOS, so i would recommend getting everything translated into English now because trying to find someone in the US to do it will be tough. Where and how much VND? Not sure. My attorney has an agent in HCM that is handling that for us. I'm sure someone on VJ can help with this, though. Ly Lich Tu Phap, you can get it at SO TU PHAP (HCM city). It only costs $100,000 dong, and will take her 3 weeks to get it. Be sure to translate from Vietnamese to English. The translated only cost like $50,000 dong. good luck. The OP was asking where to get it translated, not where to get the Ly Lich Tu Phap. Edited by toddandhien, 30 March 2009 - 04:05 PM.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-03-30 16:04:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Police records in Vietnem	QUOTE (ERIKandCHINH @ Mar 28 2009, 11:46 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Hi All, My fiancee got the forms today to get her police records. Does this form need to be translated to english for the interview? If so, where do you get that done and how much should it cost? Thanks, Erik Not sure what you mean, "got the forms today to get her police records"? But, when she gets her Ly Lich Tu Phap it does not need to be translated according to consulate instructions. Anything other than English or Vietnamese must be translated. However, she will need all of her documents in English for AOS, so i would recommend getting everything translated into English now because trying to find someone in the US to do it will be tough. Where and how much VND? Not sure. My attorney has an agent in HCM that is handling that for us. I'm sure someone on VJ can help with this, though.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-03-29 10:41:00
Asia: East and Pacific	I-130: "What Documents Do You Need to Prove Family Relationship?"	QUOTE (CamCoNuong @ Apr 15 2009, 06:05 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (2x2y2z @ Apr 14 2009, 05:46 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> If you didn't know any better, you'd read the instructions on the I-130 and think it's a walk in the park. What a bunch of #######. J. Any other relevant documentation to establish that there is an ongoing marital union. <---That is deemed acceptable as evidence and interpreted by the CO as legitimate, who serves as judge and jury. QUOTE Wedding: 12/25/2005 Hi 2x2y2z', you guys have been married since Dec 25, 2005. Do you guys have any children yet? (if you don't mind). Very very very sad to see your case being denied. I hear having a kid is a guarantee ticket for a visa. Good luck. Cam I don't think there are any guarantees of anything at HCM consulate.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-15 18:15:00
Asia: East and Pacific	I-130: "What Documents Do You Need to Prove Family Relationship?"	Did you have a question or were you just venting?	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-15 11:18:00
Asia: East and Pacific	A few I-134 questions for K1 (supporting evidence, etc)	QUOTE (rsn @ Mar 31 2009, 11:21 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Based on my reading, I have determined that I do NOT need the I-134 notarized. Is this accurate? Currently, I am well above the poverty line, which I think means I only need to fill in info on the form regarding my salary, correct?. However, I'm a bit fuzzy on the supporting evidence. What specific supporting evidence do I NEED in my case? The W2 my employer sent me in January? My last few pay stubs (how many if so)? A letter from my employer? Anything else? I read the instructions, but I suspect I don't actually need all of the evidence listed. If I do, fine, but I want to be sure. ?????????? To which instructions are you referring? If instructions from the embassy in BKK, I would recommend that you do EXACTLY what they say. I am assuming that you have reviewed the attached file. Attached Files  k_visa_packet3.pdf   196.51KB   12 downloads	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-15 18:35:00
Asia: East and Pacific	EMERGENCY! Passport has no place of issue?!?!?!	Jonas, can you update your timeline? Thanks.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-15 18:39:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Good lawyer in Hcmc?	Also, can you update your timeline as a help to others in VJ? Thanks!	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-12 17:21:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Request for Expedite Approved!	QUOTE (Dai_VN @ Apr 21 2009, 08:08 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Carlos and Jocel @ Apr 21 2009, 07:01 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Dai_VN @ Apr 21 2009, 11:52 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Has anyone ever requested for early expedite approval for family medical emergency or anything else? I just called NVC and they informed me that HCMC approved my request for early expedite service. I asked the NVC operator if they have my interview date yet she said no. She informed me that what they will do is forward my case to HCMC and they will contact us whenever they receive the case (she said 2-3 days I guess electronically) and we will have an interview date set by the consulate as soon as possible. My case was complete at NVC already anyways but they haven't set an interview date yet and they told me if my request for expedite wasn't approved that I would have to wait the second week of may for them to schedule my interview and it seem from what I see from this board it would probably be in June. But now since they approved my Early Expedite request do you guys think I'll get it early May? I had a medical emergency in my family so I expressed to them how I needed my wife and I to come home as soon as possible and I am glad they approved. I am so glad to am about to come back home to US with my wife and see my sick family member. Anyone been though this before? You must as well get your medical exam out of the way and get your fee paid if ur K1 so it will be less hassle. The way it works is for you once someone cancel their appointment for an interview and there is no one else in front of you in the same case ( med ) they they will let you slide in to that appointment. Get your MED EXAM DONE, PAY YOUR FEE so when they give you interview your not walking around like a headless chicken! I am doing the CR1 not K1, What Fee has to be paid? Is it the medical examination fee? I thought to get the medical examination done I have to have an appointment letter from the consulate or NVC. They haven't emailed me or sent me anything yet. How can I get these things done early if I don't have that letter so the medical examination will accept? I heard it's very hard to get the request for expedite and I think they told me I am the only one at HCMC hopefully my interview will be soon. I guess I'll have to rush the medical examination whenever they give me the letter. Anyone have tips? You need the appointment letter from the consulate to get your medical done.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-22 20:31:00
Asia: East and Pacific	upcoming medical in HCM	QUOTE (Huong and Phung @ Apr 23 2009, 07:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (toddandhien @ Apr 23 2009, 10:00 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> OK, here's one person's Cho Ray story. I tried to talk Hien into going to IOM but she was more comfortable with Cho Ray because she knew where it was and it seemed "more Vietnamese" to her. OK. So today I asked her a hundred questions about the experience. This is her feedback: ... All in all, her experience at Cho Ray, as a VN native, was very positive. All the horror/scare stories I told her to keep her from going did not come true. Now she thinks I believe everything I read on the internet (she actually said this to me)!! I'm sure if I went, I might not view it the same but that's OK. It worked for her and she came away with dignity and a sense of accomplishment. OK, That's good to hear about your wife's situation. Thanks for letting us know about the process. We will be at that process soon and want to know as many experience people have as we can. I guess she passed her exam then huh? Anyway, I have a question. I'm still in the process of Affidavit of Support and IV, is it okay to do the Medical Exam now or we have to wait for the official to say so? Thanks in advance. Yes, she went back today (VN time) as she was instructed. Picked up the sealed packet and they said she passed...no medical issues that needed attention. She is very happy and remains satisfied with the treatment she received at Cho Ray. Good luck to all in this process regardless of whether you choose Cho Ray or IOM.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-24 11:08:00
Asia: East and Pacific	upcoming medical in HCM	QUOTE (chuckandkim @ Apr 16 2009, 10:42 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Well, Understand, this Med-Exam will have the fiancee stripped down to her underwears and bras. Check every inch of her body for red spots, rashes. Then drink a cough solution which will make her cough for days afterward. Cho Ray - some have experience flat out lies to extort for money. IOM - Professionally done. My wife went in, got everything done. No issue. So what, you need to go to a different location for shots. I like to know that my wife got treated with respect and as a human being and receiving the service that she PAYS for, not asking for a damn FAVOR (as you would when you come Cho Ray). But it sounds like you want to try Cho Ray because it's all in one package deal? Then go! Do let us know how it turn out OK. OK, here's one person's Cho Ray story. I tried to talk Hien into going to IOM but she was more comfortable with Cho Ray because she knew where it was and it seemed "more Vietnamese" to her. OK. So today I asked her a hundred questions about the experience. This is her feedback: She went at 1 PM on Thursday, 23 April. First went Tuesday morning after vaccinations but they would not do the medical because all the open slots were taken. Told her to come Thursday at 1 PM (actually got an appt. time) The place is small and not immaculate but you have to set your expectations accordingly for Vietnam. Things are not like the US. It was not overly dirty. It was crowded, trying to do as many of the medicals in one day as possible. Mostly women but a couple guys having the medical. Mostly younger women but a few middle-aged ladies. She was treated with respect and professionalism by all of the staff. Nobody was rude to her and nobody tried to extort money. Men and women were segregated for the medical exams. Asked lots of questions. Have you had a baby? Have you had surgery? are you taking medication now? That kind of stuff. She said there were a lot of questions. Answered all NO (true for her). Blood drawn. LOTS of blood (so she says). Whiner She had to remove ALL of her clothing and put on a hospital gown. She was x-rayed with the hospital gown on. She did NOT have to drink anything at all. The X-ray technician was the only man involved in the medical process for the women and the women are clothed for that (see above). After that, the exam is done completely by a woman. The woman doctor/nurse did a VERY thorough examination of her body looking for scars, marks, rashes, anything. Very close examination of the breasts but NO internal exam (you know what I mean). Again, she said the woman was thorough but very professional. Clothes back on and told her to come between 3 and 4 PM Friday (next day) for results/pick up sealed envelope. All in all, her experience at Cho Ray, as a VN native, was very positive. All the horror/scare stories I told her to keep her from going did not come true. Now she thinks I believe everything I read on the internet (she actually said this to me)!! I'm sure if I went, I might not view it the same but that's OK. It worked for her and she came away with dignity and a sense of accomplishment.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-23 12:00:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Vietnam HCMC Denied 1st Round Interview	QUOTE (DPNH @ Apr 24 2009, 09:05 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (shaker @ Apr 23 2009, 11:55 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Thanks everyone for your info tips... It's very helpful, and will apply them in the 2nd around re-submit. I kinda upset that our lawyer didn't point this out, that we had some more info that needed to be included with the papers during her first interview.. I did drop a visit to our lawyer, but it was out of the office, and left copy of that paper that was issued to my fiancee from HCMC Immigration. Even called today, but just got his voice mail, and left word for him to call me.... Might need to find another lawyer in HCMC... I wish everyone great success in their interview's and for all you to pass... Regards, Christopher Who's "that" lawyer with the lousy service? Marc Ellis? You might as well tell the VS community so they can make smart choice in the event they're in need of legal counseling. About your case, the list of "her" relatives living in the States will be the formal denial reason from the CO. They just wanna use your info to make it official. They don't have time and care to prove that your loved on in Vietnam is committing marriage fraud. They simply will deny 99% of the cases in the first round. Then in the second round of petition, they "might" reconsider. That way, it's a Win-Win situation for them, getting more $$$ when people file for the second round, AND, they will have more time to investigate your cases. It's not practical to thoroughly investigate every case within the time frame of a few months for so many petitions handled by that Consulate. Your lawyer's attitude already explains thing to you. He already knows what to expect in the first round of this game. How can you make such a blanket statement? Sure, HCM denies a lot of cases. But there are other members here on VJ that were given a 221g for a timeline and list of relatives, quickly turned in the required information and were quickly approved for a visa. You have no information about the relative merits of shaker's case and you do not know what the CO's initial findings were. Do you know for a fact that literally 99% of cases are denied in the first round? DPNH, it would be interesting to know about your visa experience. Apparently it has made you an expert on all visa-related matters. Please post your CV.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-24 11:21:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Vietnam HCMC Denied 1st Round Interview	The two items they have asked for are very commonly requested at HCM on K-1 visas. They are a must. The list of HER family and friends in the US (Vietnamese people) are for them to assess if you might have been paid to help bring her to the US to be with them. Give them everything that they asked for in as much detail as you can. If you have a good lawyer he should be able to help you with these things also. 1 out of 5 means 80% failure rate on first interview. That sounds a bit high but more realistic at HCM.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-23 07:50:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Vietnam HCMC Denied 1st Round Interview	First, the paper that she got with information about Section 221 had to be some color...??? But more importantly, what exactly did it say? People here will be able to provide much more help if you can post either exactly what it says (being returned to USCIS or asking for more information?) or scan it and post it for us to read. Second, They scheduled her for an other interview. How was this communicated to her? at the interview, by e-mail later? Did they state the purpose of the interview? Were you instructed to be present for this interview? Last, your attorney said that 99% of people interviewing in HCM have been denied a visa? That does not sound anywhere near realistic to me. If you can provide more information, you will get more answers/help. Thanks.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-22 18:56:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Blue sheet	CONGRATS!!!	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-25 08:53:00
Asia: East and Pacific	How long will it take to get visa after interview?	QUOTE (Jack & Xuan @ Apr 25 2009, 07:29 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (ZE4ever @ Apr 24 2009, 10:43 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> I've seen that some people have to wait a full week to get their visa after they've passed the interview. Is this the norm? I thought you pick up the visa within a day or 2 after the interview, but I could be wrong. We will take Xuan's passport in on Monday 4/27. I will let you know. Jack, Congratulations on your approval! Long journey but you persevered! Well done!	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-25 08:51:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Where should we get 1 way ticket from HCM to US?	QUOTE (ZE4ever @ Apr 25 2009, 09:16 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Just curious where did you guys buy tickets for your spouse to come over to US? I believe that you will have to either use an agency or buy her ticket from the airline directly (on-line or on the phone). You cannot book tickets for a foreign departure from Orbitz or Travelocity	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-25 20:27:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Has anybody tried this	QUOTE (bryonm4 @ Feb 16 2009, 08:22 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> The thing is I could take 100 trips and she could give correct info on all the questions but they could deny just because they feel like it. That was the reason for going to Thailand Yes, but we all face that same situation. I believe that keeping things as simple and understandable as possible is the best approach.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-02-16 22:26:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Has anybody tried this	QUOTE (bryonm4 @ Feb 14 2009, 09:55 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> I have this concern They interview My fiancee on 11/06/08 and they said she didn't know a bunch of stuff but she did. Now we are getting married on 02/28/09 that is 16 weeks and 2 days later. I wonder if they will come back and say she didn't know anything about me and yet I married her 16 weeks later so that could work against us. I think it would be better to hold off on the wedding for 6 months however we have known each other for 22 months and thats a long time to date somebody. This time I will have more evedince as in chat logs showing communication also another trip to marry her. I wonder if we wait 6 months to file after we marry if that will help it? I would pose that question to your attorney. But if you can handle the 1.5 year wait to get a visa, visiting again now and then coming again for the marriage may make some sense in demonstrating a bona fide relationship.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-02-14 23:19:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Has anybody tried this	QUOTE (bryonm4 @ Feb 14 2009, 07:59 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (toddandhien @ Feb 14 2009, 07:23 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (bryonm4 @ Feb 14 2009, 05:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Sylvia_n_Joseph @ Feb 14 2009, 04:11 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> You can't outrun a computer database. That might of worked 20 years ago when things weren't as automated but you have to address your issues. My fiancee is not Thailand but she lived in a Thailand refugee camp for 4 years. One of the reason the consular listed on the denial was that my fiancee didn't know where I went to school however that wasn't even asked at the interview. How do you address that? There are 4 examples listed on my denial of this same situation. That is the reason for taking it to Thailand. Let me give you an honest assessment based on everything that I have read in your posts. I recall that you had one visit and limited pictures. This was further complicated by the fact that you were engaged very shortly after meeting in person for the first time. These are big red flags for the HCM Consulate. I believe that you were going to get denied based on your circumstances regardless of what your fiancee said or did not say. However, her language complications did not help. And she was probably given a semi-standard rejection letter that the CO did not fully edit properly (that's why it mentioned the college). The only thing you can do is to learn from this. Visit more (I would not try HCM with less than 3), get married, have lots of proof (pictures, e-mails, letters, phone calls). Get as much as possible. Once you have dispatched with the K1, file the K3 petition and build your evidence folder. Going to Thailand is not going to change any of the underlying facts. On the contrary, you will have to answer the "why Thailand?" question and also have to deal with yet another language. Also, the two of you should develop a list of all possible questions and practice them dozens and dozens of times. My list sits at 215 questions that I have taken from every source I could find. We practice them every single day. In English. You said something here that I never heard before and it made some sense and that was the form letter. I was thinking it was typed up at the time of the interview. That makes sense maybe they just forgot to edit it. I hope that was the case it does restore some faith back in the system. Thanks for that perspective I would like to see your questions if you could provide a link or email them to me I would be greatfull. We did correct the other stuff. Last month I started saving our chat logs and Im planning my second trip in 7 days to marry and 2 or 3 more after that including the interview. I wonder if they will think were getting married to soon second meeting I hope thats not a big red flag to them. I hope they go by time not the actuall number of times you have met. Because we have been together 1 year 10 months and its been 14 months since we met in person however I still have a ton of evedence most of wich she brought to the interview 3 months ago. Maybe we should wait 6 months and pile up the evedence before we file. We hired a photographer for the wedding and somebody to film it. I will talk with the attorny and see if waiting before we file will help Happy to send you the list of questions. I can put it in a pdf. PM me your e-mail address	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-02-14 20:15:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Has anybody tried this	QUOTE (bryonm4 @ Feb 14 2009, 05:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Sylvia_n_Joseph @ Feb 14 2009, 04:11 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> You can't outrun a computer database. That might of worked 20 years ago when things weren't as automated but you have to address your issues. My fiancee is not Thailand but she lived in a Thailand refugee camp for 4 years. One of the reason the consular listed on the denial was that my fiancee didn't know where I went to school however that wasn't even asked at the interview. How do you address that? There are 4 examples listed on my denial of this same situation. That is the reason for taking it to Thailand. Let me give you an honest assessment based on everything that I have read in your posts. I recall that you had one visit and limited pictures. This was further complicated by the fact that you were engaged very shortly after meeting in person for the first time. These are big red flags for the HCM Consulate. I believe that you were going to get denied based on your circumstances regardless of what your fiancee said or did not say. However, her language complications did not help. And she was probably given a semi-standard rejection letter that the CO did not fully edit properly (that's why it mentioned the college). The only thing you can do is to learn from this. Visit more (I would not try HCM with less than 3), get married, have lots of proof (pictures, e-mails, letters, phone calls). Get as much as possible. Once you have dispatched with the K1, file the K3 petition and build your evidence folder. Going to Thailand is not going to change any of the underlying facts. On the contrary, you will have to answer the "why Thailand?" question and also have to deal with yet another language. Also, the two of you should develop a list of all possible questions and practice them dozens and dozens of times. My list sits at 215 questions that I have taken from every source I could find. We practice them every single day. In English.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-02-14 19:23:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Has anybody tried this	The US Government isn't totally stupid. If your wife is a VN citizen and has always lived there and was denied a visa from there and then suddenly moves to Thailand and you petition her again from there....well what would you think? For most situations with this process just pretend you are the adjudicator and play the story out for yourself. If you have to squint at it, imagine the real adjudicator's reaction. they have seen just about every angle at this stage. If you are to get the visa, you will have your best chance in VN. At least you will not have to explain why your wife now suddenly lives in Thailand (unless she is a Thai citizen by chance). Don't make more red flags for yourselves.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-02-14 15:30:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Wife hair color could be a problem?	QUOTE (Niels Bohr @ May 3 2009, 11:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Does the picture show breasts? If they're a different size, will it affect the decision? unnecessary	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-05-04 11:50:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Wife hair color could be a problem?	QUOTE (DPNH @ Apr 16 2009, 04:33 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (toddandhien @ Apr 16 2009, 03:20 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (DPNH @ Apr 16 2009, 04:04 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> When in doubt, always ask Bac Ho and Chu Tich Nha Nuoc Nguyen Tan Dung. They will provide the best answers to your concern!! I personally find it very ironic for someone living in an extreme control-freak environment (the gov't practically follows every of your move, starting with forcing you to register where you live) wondering whether what color their hair should be, so they could move/immigrate to another country. Someone posted a question in here before about her concern that her boyfriend in VN having a tatoo and whether it will affect the outcome of the Visa process. DPNH, have you ever had a post that included a positive comment? You are condescending to Americans and even more cruel to Vietnamese and the country of VN. I commented once before that perhaps if you could not offer something positive to just refrain from posting. Can you explain to me the irony in the OP's request? Why do you think that they worry about the hair color?...because they live (or grew up) in a country where there is a lot of governmental control. I think the worry is a naturally resultant response from years of conditioning. For many people, this process and the outcome is the most important thing in their lives and they do not want to make ANY mistakes. There is no harm in asking even if the question seems silly. Folks come here for support not to be made fun of, belittled or ridiculed. And if I were Vietnamese, I would take great offense to many of the posts that you have made (actually I do take offense on behalf of my fiancee). And how about updating your timeline since you are far from a newbie here. Man, you're kinda thick up there! But since you insist, let me spit it out so you can grasp the concept a little bit better......... His wife/whatever already dyed her hair. So she's NOT a conservative gal by any definition. Now she's "attempting" to move to another country famous for its freedom of expression (unlike her control-freaked country) and she worries about her "artificial" hair color? Please!!!! Laughable, but still stupid when it boils down to core content. In regards to your comment about insult and injury, take a number and file your complains with Uncle Ho and Chu Tich Nguyen Tan Dung. I'm sure they'll care! DP, thank you for assisting me in making my case. Further evidence is not necessary. But do let me know if you need help with the English translation of what I said before. I know I used some mighty big words (more than one syllable). Edited by toddandhien, 16 April 2009 - 07:15 PM.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-16 19:13:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Wife hair color could be a problem?	QUOTE (DPNH @ Apr 16 2009, 04:04 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> When in doubt, always ask Bac Ho and Chu Tich Nha Nuoc Nguyen Tan Dung. They will provide the best answers to your concern!! I personally find it very ironic for someone living in an extreme control-freak environment (the gov't practically follows every of your move, starting with forcing you to register where you live) wondering whether what color their hair should be, so they could move/immigrate to another country. Someone posted a question in here before about her concern that her boyfriend in VN having a tatoo and whether it will affect the outcome of the Visa process. DPNH, have you ever had a post that included a positive comment? You are condescending to Americans and even more cruel to Vietnamese and the country of VN. I commented once before that perhaps if you could not offer something positive to just refrain from posting. Can you explain to me the irony in the OP's request? Why do you think that they worry about the hair color?...because they live (or grew up) in a country where there is a lot of governmental control. I think the worry is a naturally resultant response from years of conditioning. For many people, this process and the outcome is the most important thing in their lives and they do not want to make ANY mistakes. There is no harm in asking even if the question seems silly. Folks come here for support not to be made fun of, belittled or ridiculed. And if I were Vietnamese, I would take great offense to many of the posts that you have made (actually I do take offense on behalf of my fiancee). And how about updating your timeline since you are far from a newbie here.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-16 15:20:00
Asia: East and Pacific	My Wife pass, got a Pink today..	QUOTE (Dai_VN @ May 29 2009, 08:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> You have to go home today? Have a safe trip home. Fly out today, arrive home Sunday, leave home again on Wednesday, Arrive next Friday, depart SGN (together this time) next Sunday. OUCH...At least I am getting frequent flier miles!!	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-05-29 19:18:00
Asia: East and Pacific	My Wife pass, got a Pink today..	Hien asked to pick up the visa early because I have to leave on May 30 to go home for my daughter's HS graduation. She explained that she would like to be able to go with me. He said "sorry, we are very busy now and we have so many to process, we cannot do it early for you." So I will come back again next week... Never hurts to ask but the wait time does seem to be getting longer and is pretty much a week now for all of us.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-05-29 18:59:00
Asia: East and Pacific	My Wife pass, got a Pink today..	Congratulations!!!	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-05-29 18:54:00
Asia: East and Pacific	PINK! PINK! PINK! - HCM, VN	CONGRATS!!!	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-05-29 19:31:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Blue paper on May 26	QUOTE (cao @ May 31 2009, 08:45 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (toddandhien @ May 30 2009, 09:02 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> you going home on Sunday, Cao? Yes, should you suggest what I can do when time is closed down When you get home, scan your blue slip and post it for us to look at. Once we see exactly what they are requesting, I think we will be able to help you. You have a little bit of time, I think, because it is a few weeks until you have to give the new information and you are still waiting for her medical clearance. No worries!! You will have PINK very soon and she will be with you. Safe travels home.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-05-31 08:26:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Blue paper on May 26	you going home on Sunday, Cao?	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-05-30 23:02:00
Asia: East and Pacific	WE GOT PINK!!!!!!!!!	Congrats!!	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-05-29 18:41:00
Asia: East and Pacific	I'm posting on my mobile from outside the HCM, VN US consulate!	QUOTE (Dave 'n' Hai Au @ May 28 2009, 04:55 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Congrats again Dai and thanks for the info. I will pass this on to my wife so she has an idea of what kinds of things they ask. Do you think the person that helped you to organize for interview made a difference? We have a lawyer but am wondering. Do you have any idea how much a ticket back to the U.S. is? It sounds like you just hung out accross the street the whole time, thats probably what I will do. You guys Take Care! I bought a 1-way ticket for Hien on China Airlines for $572 SGN-SFO (could buy the same ticket on-line for $479 but she does not have a credit card in her name). Then another $119 for SFO-BOS on United (on-line no problem with United). All in $691.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-05-29 19:06:00
Asia: East and Pacific	I'm posting on my mobile from outside the HCM, VN US consulate!	Congrats, Dai!! All the best!	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-05-29 18:51:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Financial stuff for I-134	QUOTE (chuckandkim @ May 4 2009, 02:52 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Todd, I do not support baseless rationalization or useless effort which yield fruitless results. Erik can obtain a transcript if he desires and if he can get it and I suggest he gets it. However not everyone will be asked for the official IRS ITR transcripts, but each of you will be asked for support evidence. You and many others may be lucky enough to get this ITR transcripts in time, some don't, still it doesn't mean they will not be able to submit 1040 and W-2's from, yup, Turbo Tax, H&R Block or any tax software they might have used, some don't use software but their very own handwritten forms. Guess what, you will be able to submit those as evidence. Obtain the ITR transcripts doesn't prove some people give more effort than others, nor it gives little evidence of others try to rationalize their way of doing thing to save a little effort. None of this means nothing, but also means so much to some. Do not get tunneled vision. I do not agree with some who think and believe there is only ONE way to get thing done, all else are invalid. I also do not agree with some who try do the minimum to get by and wonder why their case don't get approved. Good luck with your case! For Erik Need a Copy of Your Tax Return Information? Requesting transcripts (individuals): You have two easy and convenient options for getting copies of your federal tax return information--tax return transcripts and tax account transcripts--by phone or by mail. Request transcripts by calling 1-800-829-1040, or order by mail using IRS Form 4506T (Request for Transcript of Tax Return). We do not charge a fee for transcripts. Allow two weeks for delivery. Definitions: A tax return transcript shows most line items from your tax return (Form 1040, 1040A or 1040EZ) as it was originally filed, including any accompanying forms and schedules. It does not reflect any changes you, your representative or the IRS made after the return was filed. In many cases, a return transcript will meet the requirements of lending institutions such as those offering mortgages and for applying for student loans. A tax account transcript shows any later adjustments either you or the IRS made after the tax return was filed. This transcript shows basic data, including marital status, type of return filed, adjusted gross income and taxable income. Chuck, you may have misunderstood my advice. It was this: if at all possible (meaning put some real effort into it) comply with the consulate requests/direction. If not, do the best that you reasonably can. I only stress this here on VJ, because I see many folks trying to get by with doing the minimum and later being disappointed. I do not want that for anyone. I also do not believe that there is only one way to do things. Lots of ways to do lots of things. Some approaches tend to be more sound than others. I advocate for pragmatism. Let me add on to the instructions that you provided since I just went through this process of getting the transcripts for myself, which took 15 minutes: If you only follow the prompts on the phone, you will not get to talk to a person. You will have the system automatically generate your transcript and mail it to you. This takes 2 weeks. If you want it faxed to you, you will need to talk to a human and BE BESIDE A FAX MACHINE. They will not fax it to a machine if you are not near it. press 0 once you are inside the tax transcript cycle in the question tree to get an operator. This is where the wait time is. By the way, HCM wants the Tax Return Transcript.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-05-04 15:53:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Financial stuff for I-134	QUOTE (chuckandkim @ May 4 2009, 08:45 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (toddandhien @ Apr 26 2009, 08:56 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> the consulate instructions state that the complete tax return transcript is preferred. Todd: it's true that ITR transcript is prefered by HCMC. Erik: However, sometimes you can't give them what you do NOT have, eventhough they say they WANT it (hint: W-2, 1040 ITR is OK!). Not a single piece of evidence will break or make your case. It's the total supportive evidence package which you present to HCMC, to convince them beyond any "reasonable doubt" of your true relationship. Think big picture! How do I show them that I'm financially sound and will be able to support her, and won't let her get on welfare or become a public charge! That's the meaning of the i-134. Can you show HCMC you can handle it? Yes? Then you're good to go brother! Chuck, I agree that you cannot give what you do not have. However, if it is available, one would be well-advised to provide the requested documents. Last Friday, 1 May, I received my 2008 transcript by fax and will receive the original by mail next week. Erik's interview is the day after mine, so he should be able to have this document if he chooses to pursue it. And, yes, one piece of "evidence" will not make or break your case. This is not evidence of a relationship. This is required documentation. I would recommend to anyone that if it is possible, comply fully with the consulate requests. Do not give them a reason to question any of the data that you present. The reason that they want the tax transcript is that it is an official record of what the IRS has about your income, deductions, etc. W-2's do not tell the whole story and a tax return (from TurboTax or whatever) can be made up to tell any story that you want. This allows the CO to not wonder if what he/she is looking at is real. Why not eliminate doubt in the interviewer's mind whenever possible? Big picture, in my mind, is having my fiancee receive approval at the interview. Everything that I have done is in support of that objective. I do not believe in rationalizing to save a little effort.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-05-04 11:48:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Financial stuff for I-134	The instructions from the consulate state that they want to see a letter from the bank as described in the I-134 instructions. In addition, the consulate instructions state that the complete tax return transcript is preferred. You should have it for the 2008 tax year if your interview is sometime towards the end of April or later. You can speak to an operator and have them fax the transcripts to you if you can't wait for the mail. The rest sounds ok, but as noted before property assessments are not needed.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-04-26 19:56:00
Asia: East and Pacific	HCM Visa Approved!	Thanks, all, for your kind wishes! We are very excited about starting our new life together in the US. Good luck to all the June interviewees! I hope the May Pink Train keeps on rolling! T & H	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-05-30 22:54:00
Asia: East and Pacific	HCM Visa Approved!	Sorry for the late post but we had internet access issues until now... Hien's interview on May 27 went very smoothly and she got PINK!!! Wow, we are SOOOOO Happy!! A few details and then the list of questions: We arrived at the consulate at about 5:45 AM. Her interview slip said 9:30 but everyone can go in when they open the doors. At 6:30, the doors on the far right opened and she was first in line on the immigrant visa side. She was interviewed by an american guy with a male VN translator. She was approved and back out on the sidewalk at 9:30 where I was waiting. Interview lasted between 10 and 15 minutes. The CO was very cordial and she was treated well throughout the whole process when inside the consulate. She was not asked if she spoke English. They just launched into the interview in VN and without realizing it she was answering in VN. Halfway through, she realized she was speaking VN and switched to answering in English because many answers were easier to give in English. All the questions kept coming in Vietnamese through the translator, even when she answered in English. That was kind of good because it prevented any misunderstandings on her part and she did not have to have questions repeated. First thing they asked for was pictures before any questions. She gave them ALL of our pictures. We had Dinh Hon pictures separated from other pictures together (in chronological order). He looked at the Dinh Hon photos but the other 100 pictures together he just fanned through with his thumb and then handed them all back. He did not ask for ANY evidence that she brought with her. However, I had placed a notarized copy of our timeline in the package of info submitted at the beginning with the I-134, birth certificates, etc. She saw him looking at the timeline while he was interviewing her. I had also placed in the original package a notarized statement of my current residence and my ex-wife's, along with copies of bills showing that we live at separate addresses. She can pick up her visa on June 3 (1 week wait). We will leave VN together on June 7 after a big Bon Voyage party at her family home in Hau Loc on June 6. POE SFO on June 7. OK, now the questions: Interview Questions Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam May 27, 2009 1. What is your fiance’s name? 2. When did you meet him? 3. How did you meet him? 4. Was he married before? 5. How many times was he married? 6. Do you know why they got a divorce? 7. When did they get divorced? 8. How many children does he have? 9. What are their names? 10. How old are they? 11. Where do they live? 12. How often does he see them? 13. Where does he work? 14. How long has he worked there? 15. What does he do for work? 16. Where does he live? 17. Can you describe the town he lives in? 18. What are his hobbies? 19. Why did he come to Vietnam so many times? (I came several times for work and many more times to see Hien) 20. Is he working in Vietnam now? 21. Where do his parents live? 22. What are their names? 23. Does he live with his parents? 24. Where have you traveled together? 25. Do you have any pictures together outside Vietnam? 26. Do you have any family in the US? 27. What do you do for work? 28. What did you do for work before? 29. Where do you live now? I agree completely with ErikandChinh's comments in an earlier post. Confidence in the interview and prep before are certainly keys to success. I firmly believe that when in applicant comes in well-prepared, confident and in love, they can see it/feel it and it makes an impression. Best of luck to all with upcoming interviews! THINK PINK!!!!	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-05-29 03:56:00
Asia: East and Pacific	Refiled question	If you had to amend the story of how you met after all this time and on your second attempt, I do not think that will be viewed well at USCIS or at the consulate. The "how you met" story is one of the most critical aspects of the HCM interview. The fact that you could not describe it correctly will make them suspicious, in my opinion, and will cause them to scrutinize your wife very thoroughly. PLEASE prepare her well for the upcoming interview.	toddandhien	Male	Vietnam	2009-06-10 12:07:00