ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
Russia, Ukraine and Belaruspacket 4 from moscow embassy

When I emailed the embassy because my wife's packet 4 was so slow in arriving, they reassured me that the US embassy moscow webiste lists everything that she needs to gather for her interview. The forms are all available on the web and for one of them you must be connected to the web anyway to fill it out.

There's no reason for her not to be gathering everything she needs now -- and the same for you.

Oh -- and although I've had very good luck with USPS global express mail in sending her gift parcels, I used DHL to send my documents to her. One parcel took 6 days by DHL and the other took 3.


Good info, thanks!
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-09 22:50:00
Russia, Ukraine and Belaruspacket 4 from moscow embassy
More than half of all items Sasha and I have mailed to each other in the past 2 years has been lost or stolen while in the hands of Russian postal workers. It's my understanding that mail theft is quite common in Russia. Fed Ex or DHL is the only way to go. Costs a fortune, but more reliable. When the embassy sends out their packets, they use regular post. Just 5 years ago there was a huge problem with postal workers there. Most of the time i really love Russia, but there are times when I just can't stand it. I know this is off topic but, have you ever been to a Russian bank in January? It will drive you crazy. 5 people working behind the counter, but only one person doing any real work. And do they really need 90 minute lunch breaks?? Anyway....

:ot2:
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-07-26 11:22:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRebtel
Interesting, never heard of it. legit?
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-09 11:28:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussians in Louisville?
Cool idea. Fortunately there is a very large number of Russians in Williamsburg. Odd, right? Sasha wouldnt need to look far for familiar faces.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-09 03:23:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusInterview in Moscow

Sasha's English is so good that most people can't tell she's Russian. In fact, she sometimes has just a bit of an English accent. do you think this will actually hurt her chances? Perhaps she shouldn't speak such proper English at her interview?? Sometimes she corrects my English. crazy.

No, it all good for K1, so don't worry.


Sweet!
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-08 12:01:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusInterview in Moscow
Sasha's English is so good that most people can't tell she's Russian. In fact, she sometimes has just a bit of an English accent. do you think this will actually hurt her chances? Perhaps she shouldn't speak such proper English at her interview?? Sometimes she corrects my English. crazy.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-08 11:50:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusInterview in Moscow
I've actually heard from several sources that Moscow is pretty painless as long as the fiancee speaks decent English. At least that embassy has a high success rate. :D
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-08 02:45:00
Russia, Ukraine and Belarussad weekend
Citycat, you should be very careful with your words. There are 1000s of members here who would argue with you. Please don't make a claim like "every international marriage is a bit of a scam", unless you can back it up. Perhaps you're only speaking about your own marriage.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-07-27 14:07:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusPOE- Helsinki or JFK???
Delta has gotten alot of bad press over the past couple of years for various things, but I must say that when it comes to international travel, especially to Eastern Europe, they are very efficient. They may not have the best planes, or the best employees, or the even the best service, but they sure do make their schedules! Even in snow, they seem to arrive at their destinations early. The past 3 trips I made to Russia were on flight 30 of Delta from JFK to SVO and each time we were at least 30 minutes early.....both ways. I asked about this and the reason given to me by the flight attendants was for visa holders clearing customs and making connecting flights. Even if they are a crappy airline, I'm glad they operate with this in mind. Now, if they would only upgrade their seats to have those nice little seatback tv screens. They've gotta be the only airline left without that amenity on 757s and larger on transAtlantic flights! But you may find that you have enough time if you're flying Delta. Also they will take you from the plane first upon arrival if you inform them of your itinerary.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-21 22:20:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusPlanning my 3rd trip to Russia since January
Russia-visa is by far the best, in my opinion. They are located only blocks from the Russian Embassy in DC. Takes them only about 5 or 6 business days to complete. Plus, they will provide you with an invitation for only a few extra bucks. You just cant beat it. I've used them many times. And now my orders are complete with just a click of the mouse. Their system allows you to save your personal information, email your application and payment. Simply drop your passport in the mail and in a couple weeks ready to fly.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-27 00:14:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusPlanning my 3rd trip to Russia since January
QUOTE (Kotenochek @ Aug 23 2007, 01:07 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Russian guest visa takes very long to arrange-about 2 months and then it costs bunch of money and efforts such as quing up for hours...


This is not true. I have never waited more than 2 weeks for my visitor visas to Russia. And never paid more than 160 dollars. I order mine online and simply send the passport to DC. I get it back ready to go within 2 weeks.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-26 20:57:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusPlanning my 3rd trip to Russia since January
Well, I just purchased my tickets for this next trip in September. Finally! It always feels alot better when I have a definite date to look forward to. September 27th. It usually takes me several days to actually purchase my transatlantic tickets, because I have this habit of researching every flight and details. For my past few trips I've found Delta to be the most direct, cheapest and shortest for my routes. by far. My frequent flier miles are piling up... biggrin.gif
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-20 21:11:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusPlanning my 3rd trip to Russia since January
Yo Slim, Why did you spend 5 years without seeing each other? Had you not met in person yet or something? I can't see why anyone would put themselves through that. 5 years?!? Sasha and I cant go 2 months without getting physically ill from being apart. You're very patient. Good for you. When was the last time you went to Russia?
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-10 14:48:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusPlanning my 3rd trip to Russia since January
I liked Novosibirsk. Was there for only one day, but it was a nice city. Cold as hell in January though.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-09 11:30:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusPlanning my 3rd trip to Russia since January

How funny, your worried about too many trips to Russia to see your SO. I'm worried for only seeing mine once, which will be exactly one year ago from our interview date. We didn't even meet in Russia. We both wanted to go some where romantic and were we had enough things to keep us busy, so we decided on Hungary, Budapest. Turned out to be the best thing I ever did in my life, well ok second best thing, the first is yet to come when we are side by side and getting married. :thumbs:

That's got to be tough. I dont know how you can go a year without seeing her. The longest sasha and I were ever apart was 8 months and we vowed never to go that long again. So now we try to be together every few months at least. We got so spoiled living together for two consecutive summers. I'll keep going even if this process takes longer than expected. I'm already planning my next trip for the holidays. When we filed, we thought there was a chance she could be here by then. But in the last few weeks we've seen a real slow down with the processing. So, we're already planning for New year's in Moscow. well, Times Square will just have to wait until 2008! ;)
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-09 03:17:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusPlanning my 3rd trip to Russia since January

By all means, if you have the money..... go!

And seriously, if I were you, I would consider moving there instead of her moving here! Colonial Williamsburg (right Williamsburg?) is cool and all, but Modern Moscow is the $#!T!!!! If you guys could have a nice life there... do it!!!

slim, you're too funny, man. I would love it if we weren't planning to have children. I'd just rather raise them here, not in Williamsburg. I love Williamsburg. if you're a resident you know all the "other" things to do around here. I spend so much time at the beach. Williamsburg is just a cash cow for me now. Its very easy to earn lots of money in this city. Its just one big resort. We plan to move west after we're married. But not for 3 years! Ughh. And no, I dont think she would go for me taking a job in Iraq. Not going that route. Been there, done that. Long long time ago. Well, not really Iraq. Kuwait, immediately following the Gulf War. I wouldnt return to that region unless I had to for some reason.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-08 18:10:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusPlanning my 3rd trip to Russia since January
Thanks everyone for the input. Slim makes a great point. One that I have thought about many times. True, would be wise to set that money aside and keep stashing it away for us later. But we see this as a neccesity. While we're apart, we dont care too much about money. Only each other's company. I'm not a rich man, but I am living comfortably. And Sasha will never need to worry about having a car. She's already got one here. I usually save enough for my trips in a month or so from my earnings. I'm quite fortunate to have a hard working fiancee. She has offered to buy the ticket this time. And since we share everything, I figured...why not?? Besides, she's got a great job translating for Sony Pictures in Moscow. makes what I make here in the States, nearly. I'm a waiter in Williamsburg. Doesn't sound that great, but in fact its one of the best places for tipped workers on the East Coast. Not only can i control my income, but I can easily set aside money, hiding it from myself. You know, its funny. So many college grads in Williamsburg, yet they all still seem to earn more in restaurants and resorts. Sad, really. Anyway, I find it quite affordable to travel to Russia very often. I just wish I would've used the same airline each time. I'm a miles member for three different companies and if I were to combine all those miles I'd have my next two trips for free. Should have thought about this years ago. Oooops. :P

I think its very important to keep our love fresh and frequent visits are really what keeps us counting the days with smiles on our faces. Was only concerned that someone would stop me and seriously question my motives. Or maybe even make our visa process troublesome. i didn't know. But if it can't hurt, I'm going. In 50 days from now to be exact! :D

Edited by Jason-Sasha, 08 August 2007 - 11:40 AM.

Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-08 11:39:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusPlanning my 3rd trip to Russia since January
Cool! Thanks all. I figured it was no harm. Just wanted some more input.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-07 12:50:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusPlanning my 3rd trip to Russia since January
I've been to Russia many times before but never 3 times in one year. I've never had any problems with customs or passport control. never even any questions asked. Weird, huh? Well, I'm going back to Moscow for one last visit before Sasha gets her visa. On September 27th I'll leave from Richmond. I don't see why it would be bad for the American fiance to visit the Foreign fiancee, but so many times might get close attention. Is this bad? Should I say i'm going to see my fiancee or say I'm visiting my girlfriend again. Surely, they will ask me what I'm doing this time. My passport is filled with Russian visas. They even know me personally at the office for www.russiavisa.com by my first name when I call them. Crazy, huh? I swear I think there's only 3 guys that run that office in D.C. and they're all foreign, but not Russian....go figure! Anyway, thanks for your time. ;)
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-07 02:16:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusGreetings to all!
Welcome Steven and Liliana, to VJ! Good luck to you both.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-26 20:51:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusVisa Approved :)
Congratulations! That's great news. good.gif
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-29 03:42:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusKharkov
If you are looking for someone in particular, you can do a member search. Or you can make a broad search for all members from Ukraine and simply browse the results.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-09-03 20:15:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusFOOD!!!
I know they brew those brands there, but since I am spoiled and get the real thing at home, i only drink the crappiest of true Russian beer. Some restaurants there also brew their own brew. Really cool. Even if it does taste like I made it myself! I went on the brew tour in Amsterdam once for Heineken. wasn't impressed. Urquel in Czech Rep. is far better. I live in Busch territory so we have the best of AB. miller doesnt even exist here. And Miller is like one of the more expensive brands in Russia. Its ok, but not great. Love the extra large bottles though! I found Baltika only drinkable when already drunk..hahaha!

Edited by Jason-Sasha, 25 July 2007 - 10:27 PM.

Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-07-25 22:26:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusFOOD!!!
My sweet Sasha eats anything with me while we are in the States. We try our best to eat healthy, but even she admits that the flavors of our fatty foods are just too tempting! We don't usually fill our bellies with #######, but we do eat tons of ice cream and meaty salads. While we're in Russia, we eat whatever we can to prevent starving! that's not to say that we dont have food or cannot find it, because it's everywhere! the problem is neither of us can prepare Russian food. Her sister Nina was blessed with art cooking, and if it were'nt for her, we'd both be dead! Hahaha. My favorites are all Russian soups. just love 'em. Secondly, I would have to choose those larges hunks of mouthwatering pork cooked over hot coals, Shashlik, or however you would spell it in English. I'm a big fan of yogurts and I think Russian yogurt is much nicer and there are many more varieties. Is beer considered a food group yet? It should be. I drink so much of it when I'm there. :) We love salads and really enjoy vegetables grown at home, not waxy and underdeveloped veggies from a produce greenhouse. We also eat tons of sushi when we have the chance. not American nor Russian. Go figure.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-07-25 21:45:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusFlights to Russia
QUOTE (bruc @ Aug 31 2007, 05:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Kotenochek @ Aug 31 2007, 04:58 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Air France sucks!



You are absolutely correct !


Air France is the worst! I've flown internationally with them only twice and both times they lost half the plane's luggage. Also both times we were very late and missed connections. CDG airport in Paris currently has the worst record for lost luggage. Last year I found an article that claimed they had over 30,000 pieces of lost luggage at any given time. 30,000?? blink.gif

Delta is not a very desirable airline, but they do have great fares from JFK to SVO and almost always are direct flights. I just hate that they still are so far behind other airlines with their cabin entertainment. No seat back monitors in coach. I think Lufthansa is the best airline in the sky. and they probably have the best inflight service.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-09-02 11:32:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusI got approved today for K1!Finally!
That's great Iya! I hope you will rest easy now, knowing this is finished. Good luck to you and Alex. ;)
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-17 12:55:00
Russia, Ukraine and Belarusmoney transfer to Russia?
QUOTE (John & Alla @ Sep 9 2007, 12:58 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I used to do Western Union but it bother me thinking of her having to go to the bank, stand in line, bring passport, etc just to get her money. So I opened a new account at my bank and have a debit card for her. Now it is easy to add money to the account and she can get it anytime.


John, you do know that your timeline says you haven't sent your I-129f yet, right?? It says your petition was sent on October 1st of 2007. I do believe you are month off. Could you please fix your timeline for us? Thank you very much. good.gif
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-09-09 19:56:00
Russia, Ukraine and Belarusflight and Arrival in the US
Good luck to you both!
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-09-06 22:23:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusCultural Differences
QUOTE (Jason-Sasha @ Sep 11 2007, 10:44 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I agree that Russian versions of American shows are more modest. I am now working in Moscow office of Sony Pictures and we are working on a script for a new TV show and my american collegue keeps inserting sexy scenes into the script which is always confronted by russian script writers. But I must say that "married with children" was a great success in Russia and still is though it has a lot of dirty stuff in it. I think it's actually the first show of this kind that appeared on Russian TV


I don't wish to break topic here, but I just wanted point out that this was Sasha's first post! Yay! heart.gif

Slim, you're right. it was the first show of its kind. It also got loads of attention from the FCC. In its first season Fox was fined a few times for its content.

Edited by Jason-Sasha, 12 September 2007 - 12:05 PM.

Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-09-12 12:03:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusCultural Differences
I agree that Russian versions of American shows are more modest. I am now working in Moscow office of Sony Pictures and we are working on a script for a new TV show and my american collegue keeps inserting sexy scenes into the script which is always confronted by russian script writers. But I must say that "married with children" was a great success in Russia and still is though it has a lot of dirty stuff in it. I think it's actually the first show of this kind that appeared on Russian TV
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-09-11 21:44:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusVisa to Russia
QUOTE (gogal2020 @ Sep 11 2007, 09:55 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
In regards to the third party visa help, I am hesitant to send my passport to people (or a company) I don't know, over the internet. How do I get it directly from the embassy, by me going there in person. Do I need a letter from Elena's parents from Russia, or can I write one up myself tongue.gif ?

Thanks,

Mike.


Mike, I've been to Russia many times. Each time I go I use Russia-visa.com. They are very quick and reliable. Like Neonred said, only 160 bucks. And they process within 10 days.

Edited by Jason-Sasha, 12 September 2007 - 11:35 AM.

Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-09-12 11:34:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusIncome Requirements
What if you are single and live alone and your fiancee is single? Do you use the guideline set for 1 person or 2 (to include her)?

Edited by Jason-Sasha, 12 October 2007 - 12:01 PM.

Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-10-12 12:01:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussian Trains
I have had great experiences on Russian trains and nightmare trips. That will be a very long ride and in winter it's not so pleasant really. After a day or so the odors of bodies becomes pretty strong and the restrooms are horrendous. I'd personally take a quick 4 hour flight. KrasAir can be dependable most of the time. Charges for luggage can be inflated.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-10-16 00:09:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusAleksandr has arrived
Congratulations!
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-09-02 13:13:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusWhat Are Your Experiences With Language Issues
I often try to think in Russian, just for practice. reading russian written books is a good way to learn the pronunciation, though i can only understand about 50% of it. While I'm walking my dog, I try to title everything I see with its Russian form. I think I'm just goofy like that.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-08-06 18:27:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusTourist Visa from Russia to US
QUOTE (moxcamel @ Nov 12 2007, 02:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (russ @ Nov 12 2007, 11:02 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I've spoken with lots of Russians on the phone that I've met online, Russian practice in exchange for English practice. Not once have I ever been asked about visas or travel to the US. That information is readily available in Russia, on the internet, in Russian.

Oh I've been asked about Visas. Usually it works like "I know this guy who can get me a Visa to visit you, I just need you to send me $500 to cover it." That will be followed closely by "I got the Visa, just need you to send $1,500 for the plane ticket. They have to be purchased here because the airline has to personally view my Visa." It's usually the same girl whose mother will die unless she receives $200 for an operation, and oh, she just lost her job at the factory and will lose her apartment and be kicked out on the street unless I send her $200. I think I've killed about 5 mothers and gotten 7 different girls kicked out of their apartment over the last couple of years. Also, I've left a couple of widows of deposed Nigerian Finance Ministers with absolutely no way to reclaim their $10 million in personal assets that she was going to give me a $2 million cut of, and all I had to do was give her a couple grand in "processing fees." I really am a heartless #######.


Hahahahaha!!! laughing.gif Pretty funny. Though, it does sound like you might have been shopping for Russian love for a long time.

Edited by Jason-Sasha, 12 November 2007 - 03:13 PM.

Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-11-12 15:12:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusFilling out DS-230 part II
I think the first option is correct. I think.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-11-18 12:36:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusClosed Borders
When I was a young boy, we lived in a house with a fully completed bombshelter in the back yard. The threat was certainly real enough for thousands and thousands of Americans to construct such bunkers in their own yard during the 60's.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-11-12 12:50:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusMarriage in Siberia. Anger and frustration in Moscow.
Been to Krasnoyarsk. Not a bad city at all.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-11-18 04:54:00
Russia, Ukraine and Belarusairline tickets for my wife
QUOTE (Chris Parker @ Dec 2 2007, 01:59 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (skii @ Dec 2 2007, 11:46 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Finally got our adjustment of status behind us, greencard in hand and now my wife can finally travel home to see her family. She is concerned about whether to use her married name or her maiden name on the flight tickets. Shes worried that when leaving Russia they will stop her at passport check because her Russian passport shows her maiden name, her greencard shows her married name and her ticket shows her married name. Shes probably right they will give her a hard time. Anyway, anybody that has gone through this already - I would really value any input. I already got her ticket in her married name but I'm not sure if I should change it. The last problem I need is my wife not being able to return home because of some jack*** in passport control. Thanks!

Always put the ticket in the married name, like you did.

If passport has pre-married name, bring the marriage certificate with you in case it is questioned, but know that it never has been for us. This most recent time, she's carrying a U.S. passport and a Russian passport with different names (pre-married in Russian passport, married in U.S. passport), ticket in married name, check-in was performed as usual without any questions about the name differences and no need to show the marriage certificate. This discrepancy is very common and the airlines must be used to it.

The photo and signature prove the passport belongs to the bearer, and you still have the permanent resident card as proof of identity in the marriage name.


Just curious....Chris Parker mentioned traveling with Russian passport and U.S. passport. When can an immigrant apply for a U.S. passport? Was just wondering, that's all.
Jason-SashaMaleRussia2007-12-03 05:21:00