Forum	Title	Content	Member	Sex	Country	Date/Time
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	B)--> QUOTE(Bill B @ Nov 4 2007, 06:41 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> I found this on an immigration lawyer's web site. It gives some good insight into what security checks are done and specifically at USCIS. Reading this I can see how some folks could be delayed if they get flagged and put into another pile for a special adjudicator to further research. Anyway, interesting reading here... Ref: http://www.usaimmigr...tiveReview.html SECURITY NAME CHECKS AND ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW* REVISED: December 2006 GARY G. BALA I. SECURITY NAME CHECKS (ALSO CALLED BACKGROUND CHECKS) For public safety & welfare and national security reasons, all visa petitions under current regulation and procedure are placed through security name checks at three (3) locations: 1. USCIS office, 2. National Visa Center (NVC) and 3. the U.S. Consulate where the visa is ultimately issued. There can be not one but several levels of security checking: There is an initial security name check done rountinely on all in-coming petitions. If the results produce a "lookout hit" or "red flag hit", the petition is placed in line for additional more intensive customized security screening, which could include a request for full fingerprints and which obviously has the undesirable effect of extending processing time for adjudication. While security checking is widely focused on the visa beneficiary, petitioners and even attorneys and consultants involved in a case are subject to security screening. A Lookout Hit or Red Flag Hit can be generated on a visa petition, among other reasons, for any the following: *Past arrest record *Past criminal conviction record *Past firearms record *Past record of domestic violence or sexual offenses *Past fingerprint record with any law enforcement agency *Past visa or immigration history *Watch List or Pending Charges "Hit": Petitioner or Beneficiary is currently on watch list or wanted on pending charges with any law enforcement or other government agency, (local, state, federal, FBI, INTERPOL, Homeland Security, State Department designated terrorist group list) *Common or Similar Last Name with others in the database who have past arrest or conviction records (sometimes called a "False Hit") Under post 09-11 legislation such as USA Patriot Act, Border Security Act and Intelligence Reform Act, our Immigration Service, the Consulates, and Customs and Border Protection, have worked to significantly upgrade their technological capabilites, increase inter-agency data-sharing and coordinate investigative activities. The current policy directive is "zero tolerance" policy for security issues. The on-going U.S.Visit program is one example. Another important example is the implementation of a critical software upgrade which effectively links up Immigration and Consular databases with many local law enforcement data bases and the FBI criminal database. Obviously, any security name check is only as good as the accuracy and completeness of the database upon which the check the done. Here is a sample of the principal databases upon which an immigration and consular security check can be done currently: *NCIC (National Crime Information Center)(also called FBI criminal database) *IBIS (Interagency Border Inspection System) [Click Here for More Information on Security Checks with IBIS.] *NIIS (Non-Immigrant Information System) *CLASS (Consular Lookout and Support System)(This name-check database in particular has been greatly expanded, now storing up to 18 million records.) *CCD ( Consular Consolidated Date Base)(Stores 75 million records of past visa applications and outcomes) *TIPOFF (Classified DOS Bureau of Intelligence database) *NAILS (National Automated Immigration Lookout System) *TECS II (Treasury Enforcement and Communucation System) *TSC and TTIC databases (DOS Terrorist Screening system) At USCIS (Homeland Security Department) stage, currently, NCIC, IBIS and NIIS database checks are done, with the option, if warranted, to do additional database checks. At National Visa Center (State Department) stage, a separate independent NCIC database check is done by in-house FBI staff in connection with information supplied in the DS-230. Based on results, NVC has the option to request full fingerprints to be taken at post. NVC checks can usually be completed in 24 hours. In some limited cases involving high-risk visa applicants meeting certain specific criteria, NVC also does Security Advisory Opinions (SOAs) before sending the file to Consular Post. At Consular stage, there are three (3) Visa Security name checks done: CONDOR, MANTIS AND MORE ANOTHER NCIC (via CLASS) [Consulate has option, if warranted, to run full gamut of checks, such as CCD (past visa applications & results), TIPOFF (DOS Bureau of Intelligence), NAILS (Nat'l Automated Immigration Lookout System), TECS II (Treasury Dept. database), TSC & TTIC (DOS Terrorist screening)]. CONDOR refers to a check done mostly of information supplied on Form DS-157, and focuses on visa applicants with a potential terrorist, firearms or weapons background. CONDOR in most cases should be completed in 90 days or less. If not, contact the VO Public Inquiry line at Tel: 202-663-1225 or usvisa@state.gov MANTIS refers to when potentially sensitive technologies might be used by the visa applicant in her visit to the U.S. If the visa applicant might employ a "critical-fields" technology in the U.S. which could have a "dual-use" such military or national security application, this check will be done to screen out a high-risk applicant. Most MANTIS checks can be done in 30 days. If not, contact the SAO Problem Resolution Unit at saoinquiries@state.gov. NCIC (via CLASS) refers to the name check procedure done by the Consulate with the NCIC criminal database at FBI. This procedure screens visa applicants by name to see if there is a "hit" with the criminal database: that is, a person in the criminal database has the same or very similar name to the visa applicant. "False Hits" Problem: Consular posts however have recently been inundated with "false hits" from 7 million new names added to the NCIC database, including persons with convictions for minor offenses such as simple DUIs and shoplifting. Many visa applicants with common names with those in the database get a "false hit": the refers to when a visa applicant's name matches a name in the datebase but is NOT actually that same person in the database, just a person with a common or very similar name. This places the case into what is called "Administrative Review". Under current rules, the Consulate is required in this circumstance to receive full clearance from FBI (via the NVC) before Consulate can issue the visa. It may require a full fingerprint check and customized investigation. Full clearance from FBI (via the NVC) in most cases can take 4 to 6 weeks, but in some cases much longer and even months. "False hits" have become a major problem for some visa applicants. There are reportedly an alarming number of false hits caused by similar or identical or very similar names, or errors, inconsistencies or discrepencies in listed names in official documents. This is true especially in countries, such as the Latin countries, where there are only a few surnames and name-similarity is common, or record-keeping accuracy in official documents is dubious. Reportedly, approximately half of all names in the NCIC database are Latino, and this has resulted in a high number of false hits for individuals with common or very similar last names at Consulates in the Latin countries. Applicants presently are not allowed the opportunity to prove that they are not the same person as that on the database, nor is there a way to initiate security checking in advance of the visa application. Thus, the best protection for visa applicants to avoid name check problems and delays resulting from Administrative Review at the Consulates and USCIS is: providing full, accurate and truthful name information (first, last, middle, and other) in all forms and documents, timely submission of local police clearance reports and promptly complying with any request for full fingerprints. *SPECIAL NOTE ON EFFORTS TO AVOID OR CIRCUMVENT "FALSE HIT" BACKGROUND SECURITY CHECK*: Except in the most extra-ordinary circumstances, advance efforts to avoid or circumvent "false hit" before it happens, or complete a background security check in advance, such early submission to the Consulate of the DS-156 and DS-157 or police, arrest or fingerprint records, will probably not be fruitful. As stated by AILA: "Although attorneys have attempted to be pro-active and expedite the process by submitting copies of arrest records, final court-dispositions and attorney-initiated FBI results [and DS-156 and 157], at the initial visa application, consular officers are required to obtain fingerprints in a NCIC name check "hit". Once a post has received a response from the FBI via the National Visa Center (NVC), it may at the consular officer's discretion accept documentation from the applicant that matches the extract provided by the FBI. However, consular posts will not accept submission of all related documents in lieu of initiating required security checks and fingerprinting." See 22 CFR Section 41.105( B) (2), and "DOS Answers to AILA's Questions" (Oct. 02, 2002), published on AILA InfoNet at Doc. No. 02100340 (posted Oct. 03, 2002). *SPECIAL NOTE ON NEW SOFTWARE TO EXPEDITE "FALSE HIT" CLEARANCES*: Department of State (DOS) has initiated worldwide deployment of new computer software that is expected to greatly reduced the clearance time for applicants who have been the subject of "false hits" in the visa security check process. The new software will allow posts to capture the applicant's digital fingerprints and check them electronically with the FBI's NCIC database within 24 hours. DOS has launched this new software through a pilot program at consular posts in Mexico City, and reports that the pilot program has been able to clear "false hits" in as little as same day (sometimes in one or two hours). Worldwide deployment of the new software to expected to be finalized once the Technical Communications Security Office approves the program. See "DOS Answers to AILA'S Questions" (March 23, 2006), published on AILA InfoNet at Doc. No. 06041060 (posted Apr. 10, 2006). II. ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW "Administrative Review" refers to a Consular Official placing the case "on hold" because the Visa Petitioner or Beneficiary FAILED TO PASS the security name check or background check, or because the Consulate or State Department or Homeland Security NEEDS TO INVESTIGATE some issue or matter in the case more closely. Cases placed into Administrative Review can ADD WEEKS OR EVEN MONTHS to processing time and final decision on visa issuance, typically in most cases AT LEAST 4 to 8 weeks additional time. Under current regulation, there is no right of appeal within State Department or Homeland Security for administrative review status. It is suggested that visa petitioners and beneficiaries keep track of the status of their case as best as possible, and secure, if possible, the reason or reasons their case has been placed into administrative review, which at least helps to relieve some anxiety during the waiting time. **STATUS CHECK OF CASES IN ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW: Status Checks of cases in administrative review should first be addressed to the Consulate in question. Click Here for List of Consulates. The State Department's Office of Visa Services can also assist in status checking of cases which are unusually delayed. Tel: 202-663-1225 (Punch 1, Then 0, Avg. Wait Time Approx. 15 minutes to Speak with a Live "Visa Specialist", ET 8:30 AM to 5:00PM). E-Mail: usvisa@state.gov Click Here for More Information. For people who want to be active during the painful waiting period, especially if it becomes protracted, here are two suggestions: 1. Request in Writing Information from Immigration Service and the State Department under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) regarding the reason for the Administrative Delay. See: USCIS Freedom of Information Act Request. and State Department Freedom of Information Request. 2. Order the Visa Applicant's FBI record directly from the FBI and have it ready in case the Embassy requests same. See: FBI Criminal History Record. **WRIT OF MANDAMUS: What is this Writ and How is it Obtained? "Writ of Mandamus" refes to a federal court order signed by a federal district judge which directs the Consular Official in the State Department's U.S. Consulate abroad to decide whether to issue a visa or not within a short time. It is appropriate ONLY in a limited number of extra-ordinary cases, where the visa applicant's waiting time has been extremely long. It requires that the U.S. Citizen Visa Petitioner be prepared to spend the time, effort and money to file a federal court lawsuit, namely, an Action for Writ of Mandamus, in the District Court where the Petitioner resides. It is also generally required that reasonable documented efforts be made with Immigration Service or U.S. Consulate and State Department BEFORE filing suit in court. As explained by the U.S. Court of Appeals, 9th Circuit: "Mandamus is an extraordinary remedy and is available to compel a federal official to perform a duty only if: (1) the individual's claim is clear and certain; (2) the official's duty is nondiscretionary, ministerial, and so plainly prescribed as to be free from doubt, and (3) no other adequate remedy is available. Azurin v. Von Raab, 803 F.2d 993, 995 (9th Cir.1986)." A Writ of Mandamus is usually not appropriate for a Visa Petitioner and Applicant whose case has been placed into Administrative Review for only a few days, weeks or even months. However, it may be appropriate for a case which has been waiting for many, many months and even years. See: Patel v. Reno (U.S. Court of Appeals, 9th Cir., No. 96-55359a, Jan. 16, 1998)(Court issues Writ of Mandamus to Consular Officials at U.S. Consulate in Bombay, India because "consulate had a duty to act" when Petitioner's family visa applications were under administrative review for EIGHT (8) years without decision). For more general information, see: Writ of Mandamus Process Practice Advisory from AILF. *INTERNATIONAL MARRIAGE BROKER REGULATION ACT ("IMBRA")*: Security Name Checks at USCIS and the Consulates have reportedly intensified due to the passage of IMBRA, which effectively requires more security checks of both Petitioner and Beneficiary, including check for Abuse Protections Orders, court-restraining or "no-contact" orders and past domestic violence history, and a check on the number of a past K Visa petitions a Petitioner has submitted.[/quote] Yeah....but does this mean that a DUI I had 4 years ago could delay our approval?? 0 22 Jun 05 - We met in a tiny bar in Williamsburg, Va. (spent all summer together) 27 May 06 - Sasha comes back for a 2nd glorious summer (spent 8 months apart) 01 Jan 07 - Jason travels to Moscow for 2 weeks with Sasha 27 May 07 - Jason again travels to Moscow for 2 weeks of perfection 14 July 07 - I-129F and all related documents sent to VSC 16 July 07 - I-129F delivered to VSC and signed for by P. Novak 20 July 07 - NOA1 issued / receipt number assigned 27 Sep 07 - Jason travels to Moscow to be with Sasha for 2 weeks 28 Nov 07 - NOA2 issued...TOUCHED!...then...APPROVED!!! 01 Dec 07 - NVC receives/assigns case # 04 Dec 07 - NVC sends case to U.S. Embassy Moscow 26 Dec 07 - Jason visits Sasha in Russia for the 4th and final time of 2007 22 Feb 08 - Moscow Interview! (APPROVED!!!)..Yay! 24 Mar 08 - Sasha and Jason reunite in the U.S. 31 May 08 - Married 29 Dec 08- Alexander is born 11 Jan 10 - AOS / AP / EAD package sent 19 Jan 10 - AOS NOA1 / AP NOA1 / EAD NOA1 08 Feb 10 - AOS case transferred to CSC 16 Mar 10 - AP received 16 Mar 10 - AOS approved 19 Mar 10 - EAD received 22 Mar 10 - GC received Back to top	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-11-04 23:44:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Thank you to everyone who wished me a happy birthday. its been a good relaxing kind of day. Sasha's birthday is only 4 days away. We love having birthdays so close to each other. So, anyway, this is just getting strange! All of these quick approvals are throwing off all of our formulas here. I'm happy for anyone who gets an approval but this is just nonsense. You would think that their priority would be to get old petitions approved first. They really need to be called out on this....its just horrible business.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-11-04 19:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Today will be the last birthday I spend without my Sasha! And her birthday is only 4 days after mine. wish I could be there with her now.... December will just have to do. I love you Sasha!!	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-11-04 01:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	There seems to be no real consistency yet, though. Their approving has been all over the charts lately. Approvals from September, October, and July filers??? They lie about processing cases in the order they are received. That's obvious. There are still May filers waiting. Perhaps they randomly select younger petitions in an effort to bring down their averages? I don't know. But it really isn't making any sense. Though, I can't really complain because they are approving now at a better rate....seemingly. My fingers are crossed that things continue to speed up for everyone.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-11-02 15:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Huh. A bit of activity today. Cool! congratulations to those newly approved. Mirla, I'll shoot you with a party-string gun.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-11-01 17:25:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Let's see if VSC can close the month in a good way....	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-31 00:10:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	It was actually a bit of humor. Though, she could have listed the complaints that we have a bit differently I suppose. we chew USCIS up everyday here. Hell, journalists are notorious for their digging and their bashing. You think Uncle Sam should be a reason to keep them gentle? no way. At least that article made it to so many other outlets. This is impressive and Wendy should be proud. Here's to hoping! So, it seems we are still stuck in this slow rate of 1 approval every other day or so. Zzzzzzz.......	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-31 00:01:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	QUOTE (Bobalouie @ Oct 30 2007, 11:00 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (amrssnowangel @ Oct 30 2007, 05:06 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (ZeeNusah @ Oct 30 2007, 05:58 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (amrssnowangel @ Oct 30 2007, 05:44 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> What is it with people???? http://www.visajourn...p;#entry1292579 Ungrateful people....Im irritated... Like I said in the thread in OT, I don't understand where all the bickering is coming from. Some people don't think that the article was the best. I don't understand why people insist on saying this over and over and over again I wish people would just take it for what it was: a way to get people to hear our story. How it turned out is not our fault. At least we tried. Personally I dont care how it made me "LOOK". What I care about is that its noticed. That it is the START of a process. The START of being heard. I stand by the article. I stand by US Wendy. I dont think we look "desperate or compulsive". I think we look like people being kept from our SO's/husband's and wives by an inept system. Wouldn't they feel the same...say...if they wanted to adopt a baby...couldn't have one...adopted overseas...then had to wait a year to see him? Hold him? Missing his first steps, his first smile? Wouldln't they feel the same? Why are people soooooooooooooo jugemental?? OHHHH the deep questions of life..LOL Im just rambling..sorry guys. I liked the article. Just think it now needs follow up..AND follow THROUGH. Bold in the above added for emphasis Personally, I am compulsive. I check this website so many times a day it is pitiful. I think anyone in our positions would be compulsive! We get no info from the USCIS, and the only place we can get any accurate info is here. I check to see if anyone has their approval so I will see with my own eyes if things are moving and can make reasonable, albiet probably inaccurate assumptions about the health of this process. The naysayers and detractors either dont know how pitiful this waiting game is, or have forgotten what it felt like. I have done a lot of things in my life, and this waiting to start my new life with the one I love is the hardest thing I have ever done. People who are not involved in this process have really no idea what it is like. The only people other than us that I can think of who know what we are going thru are the families of deployed military personell. IMHO I saw no problem with the article other than it provided more "story" than details, but that is not a bad thing. The emotional aspect is good a lot of the time too. All good points. Though, I do wish the article's author would have given more facts and details about the actual process. Guess I was hoping she would chew up USCIS a bit. But it was good overall.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-30 23:15:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	I love that Wendy has done this. I think the article is a great start and I'm in. But I do kinda have to agree that the reporter didnt do us any justice. She sorta made it sound like she is one of those doubters. almost like she has her own opinions but did the article because it was her assignment. It really could have been much better, but its a real start. Congratulations Wendy! You got moxie girl! And I'm one of those people who will stand by you on this. I wish someone would do a bigger story with a few different couples, having varied experiences.This might help people understand that this immigration thing is like a case of "A few bad apples spoil the bunch". Edited by Jason-Sasha, 30 October 2007 - 05:35 PM.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-30 17:32:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	QUOTE (StillThePrettiest @ Oct 30 2007, 01:36 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> I went back to the WP site to see what other comments had been posted and the link to the comments area is greyed out; I can't get there to read anything... is this just me, or have they disabled comments for some reason? You did register for a free membership right? that is required. If you already did this and its unaccessable then maybe we VJers posted too many hard comments, firing back at the naysayers. Who knows?	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-30 02:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Hooray...only 70 more days for me!!! (or more)	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-29 23:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Congratulations Bill B! at least we got one approval today.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-29 21:57:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Sorry wendy but that flattering comment actually came from someone else. Though, I must say I agree with it completely! You're definitely not too old for your Albanian. He better hope he's as hot as you are! I can't remember who wrote that comment, but I can't honestly take credit for it. But I do agree. also, know that we all have your back. Keep at 'em. No approvals today?? What up with that???	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-29 19:34:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	QUOTE (Steph1973 @ Oct 29 2007, 03:59 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Bob & Kim @ Oct 29 2007, 04:37 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Where are the approvals??? It has been 8 days since we had a normal approval (May filer or before). I'm not counting the freak approval we had 7 days ago because that was an October filer and they got it in 3 weeks. What the hell is going on??? Thanks to all of you trying to make a difference though the media and politicians. Lord please help us... I am really down on this today. I just booked my million dollar flight to England for Christmas. I wasn't expecting to celebrate Christmas there because I thought my fiance would be here by now. Depressing.... It will be 6 months while I am in England. With the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday approaching, things will get even slower at VSC. I know how you feel. This December I'll be making my 4th trip to Russia this year. i didnt want to have to do this, but we may not be finished with this visa until early spring. But at least we'll finally spend a New Year's together.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-29 16:23:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Wow! VJers unite.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-29 15:47:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	QUOTE (ZeeNusah @ Oct 29 2007, 12:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Jason-Sasha @ Oct 29 2007, 01:17 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> I just read the comments from the article in the Washington Post. Outrageous! But these are the same ignorant opinions we all face as we fight to bring our loved ones here. I just couldn't hold my mouth from giving my opinions. I just finished a lengthy comment on the article. And I'm proud of Wendy for doing this. We all should be. I urge all of you to create a quick membership with the Washington Post in order to post a comment. Takes only a minute or so. some very sad individuals speaking their minds there. And people wonder why the rest of the world views us so dimly. Morons. Anyhow, sounds like good news is right over the horizon for Byron. Good for him! Good luck everyone and Happy Monday. a fresh week of approving awaits.... Jason, I applaud you for your comment on the Washington Post website I will be posting my comment shortly. Its the least I can do for the effort Wendy put into this. He he...I just couldn't resist.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-29 12:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Byron, this is your week! You've heard it so many times in the past, but this time I really believe it.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-29 12:30:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	QUOTE (afterforever @ Oct 29 2007, 12:20 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Hey Byron and Mirla. I am sending tons of positive energy your way for an approval this week. I know it is small comfort but once you get your NOA2, you will sail through NVC (unlike us at CSC). Good luck!!!! Good luck all May filers still waiting. Hoping this is your week!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope so too. Want so badly for them to focus on June and July filers...	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-29 12:24:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	I just read the comments from the article in the Washington Post. Outrageous! But these are the same ignorant opinions we all face as we fight to bring our loved ones here. I just couldn't hold my mouth from giving my opinions. I just finished a lengthy comment on the article. And I'm proud of Wendy for doing this. We all should be. I urge all of you to create a quick membership with the Washington Post in order to post a comment. Takes only a minute or so. some very sad individuals speaking their minds there. And people wonder why the rest of the world views us so dimly. Morons. Anyhow, sounds like good news is right over the horizon for Byron. Good for him! Good luck everyone and Happy Monday. a fresh week of approving awaits....	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-29 12:17:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	QUOTE (Jason-Sasha @ Oct 28 2007, 10:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Very cool Wendy. I so hope this helps. Maybe this will be enough to bring loads of attention to your case and all of our cases. Thank you and good luck! Next thing you know, you will be on a television news broadcast in primetime telling it like it is! P.S. That's a very nice dress you have. i hope you will be able to wear it soon....	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-28 22:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Very cool Wendy. I so hope this helps. Maybe this will be enough to bring loads of attention to your case and all of our cases. Thank you and good luck!	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-28 22:39:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	I think some people have received NOA2s with issuance dates on Saturdays. But certainly not on Sundays. but, hey I could be wrong.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-27 13:26:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Weekends are bittersweet. Less hectic than the workweek, yet stagnant as we wait for the government.....	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-27 13:10:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	QUOTE (BYRON-LEIDY @ Oct 26 2007, 12:49 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> WOW, I actually got a touch, it says that they received the requested evidence ( a missing signature on a form) and that now the case processing has resumed....it says i will be notified by mail within 60 DAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!! .....Please tell me that this is just due process and that it really doesnt take that long!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I think this is just standard notification. Let's hope for aonly a few days. Good luck Byron!!! This is it. Holy Cow!! My projected adjudication date came backwards 2weeks!! The biggest jump I've ever had. Very cool...	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-26 11:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Actually, Uncle Sam (U.S.) was a clever term first used to encourage civilians to serve their country. They wanted to give the impression that they were serving their family. Surely you could trust an Uncle right? Not so anymore. And you are correct in your comment that its screwed up because of the family conotation. I used this term in my previous post as a sarcastic quip. Guess it didnt come off that way. And I totally agree that family based visas should be the highest priority. I agree with almost every complaint about this whole process. I just wanted to address the friction between so many members lately. not only in this thread. But it seems to be getting tense in here....	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-25 22:28:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	This thread is no longer enjoyable. If you're so mad about the way VSC is handling cases...why not just go there in person and yell at them? Why yell at other VJ members? Handle your business. You should be thankful that we have the right to even do this! Its hard for all of us. The only way to get through this ####### is to remain positive, strong and patient. Or....you can just go to your fiance(e)'s country and take up residency there. What? Cant leave your job? Your home? Your family? Can't do what your "other" is doing?? We all need to get a grip here. I think its a very good idea to write as many letters as possible to people who can help. I did it. But yelling at other members who havent done so is just stupid. I agree that USCIS owes us better service, but this whole process is a choice. Not a guarantee. The government just doesn't do that. Get over it or move along. Hey, you could always just give up. If a relationship is strong enough, nothing will tear it apart. If the waiting period was a year, would you have applied?? If not, then you have other issues. Nothing wrong with bashing VSC as much as you wish. Nothing wrong with bitching and complaining. But stop the attacks on each other for God's sake!! Everyone's time will come. If you dont like it, if you dont think its fair...write to someone who can actually help. In the meantime, remember what makes us good people....consideration, kindness, comradery, honesty. Just to name a few things. The government is not a direct reflection of it's people. We know what's fair. What's right. But in the eyes of Uncle Sam, we are people who are asking for a favor. we are requesting a service. We are at their mercy here. Time to face that fact. Again, that's how Uncle Sam sees it. We are different. We feel cheated. We feel poorly served. Unless we have the ability to actually go inside their facility, ask questions and watch production....we can't really bash them. Not fairly anyway. It feels good to do it though. Hell, I know that. I enjoy giving them #######. But you know what always turns my mood from negative and angry to positive and productive? My Sasha. Knowing that there's not a force on this Earth that will or can keep us apart forever. I tell myself that she is why I live. And if for some outrageous reason we fail in our process, well, I'll just go there. We know and trust each other so deeply that we have confidence that we'll be together again soon enough. I know all of you must have this same connection with your fiance(e)s/spouses. So chill out. Some of you act like you're gonna kick the bucket sometime soon, leaving you only days with your lovers. So pessimistic! Try to focus on all of the wonderful years you will have together and not the painful months that you were apart. Besides, what good are you doing by pissing other VJers off? You want to help apply for a job with USCIS's Vermont facility. So, can't we all just get along??	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-25 21:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	Whoa!! Looks like I missed some action today. Great news for Mirla and Byron. They should both be approved very soon. Good luck guys!!!	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-24 16:47:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	I guess lawyers really do belong at the bottom of the ocean.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-24 08:40:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	QUOTE (Courtney @ Oct 23 2007, 12:16 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Jason-Sasha @ Oct 23 2007, 12:11 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Courtney @ Oct 22 2007, 11:54 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Jason-Sasha @ Oct 22 2007, 11:45 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Courtney @ Oct 22 2007, 11:42 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Courtney @ Oct 22 2007, 11:34 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Jason-Sasha @ Oct 22 2007, 11:27 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (julezabelle @ Oct 22 2007, 11:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Courtney @ Oct 22 2007, 11:14 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> so THAT'S what's taking so long! They're sitting there in their little cubicles, thinking of new and cruel ways to toy with us... Hey Courtney - I saw your post about visiting the UK. Not sure if you will be permitted to enter, but it sounds like you have a lot of proof tying you to the US. Just be confident and polite. I hope it goes well!! I'm visiting in Jan with my 8 y/o daughter and am already freaking out if they will admit us. Never had probs before, but adding a kid to the mix makes me nervous. Good news is I have 2 other kids, a full time job, mortgage, etc. to come back to, so I think it will be OK. Fingers crossed for both of us!!! Why would she not be permitted to enter UK. As far as I know, every American with a passport may enter at anytime. Been there several times. Maybe I'm missing something? Ahh, my sordid past... Back in Feb '08 I was denied entry to the UK. I didn't have a return ticket to the US, and i couldn't prove strong ties to the US (so i got to hang out in a detainment room for 8 hours. good times). So i'm going back to the UK this friday, just for a short vacation, and have lots of proof that I will be coming back to the US... but still, i'm terrified. I know the worst that can happen is that i'm sent back to the US, but that truly will be awful. I didn't mean "back in Feb '08", obviously, since we're not there yet... Back in FEB '07 would be more correct. I need to learn how to use the Edit button So, this was 8 months ago? Did they tell you the exact reason for turning you away was because you had no proof of returning? Like if you had a roundtrip ticket there would have been no problems? Just curious, that's all. I got a little handy list of all the reasons I was refused entry. 1. I stayed in the UK as a visitor from September 2006 to February 2007, a period of 5 months 2. I only returned to America 2 weeks ago (from 2/25/07) for a medical appointment. 3. I had no return ticket 4. I previously entered the UK from Eire and consequently only had leave to enter for 3 months. 5. I left my job to travel to the UK in September and was at the time, not employed. I wrote that almost verbatim from the document I recieved at the end of that terrible day. A little repetitive, no? But reason enough to deny me entry I suppose. I think the girl was pretty new to the immigration job. She had to do a lot of re-asking questions, and there was one point I was pretty convinced she was crazy. She kept saying "july" instead of "june" as the day I met my fiance online. She said it about 10 times, and I corrected her every time. I think she must have been trying to trip me up. It wouldn't have taken much at that point- 8 hour flight after about 15 hours of travelling, and then sitting me (terrified) in a detainment room with little to no sleep in 24 hours... It was rough. I think i've blocked out most of it. Whoa. Well, I kinda have to agree with the UK. Sorry to say that. But if you were there for that long and even left your job to live in the UK, they must have viewed you as an illegal immigrant. And maybe even USCIS will have some questions about this. They really want each petitioner to be a productive, responsible provider for the "new arrival". Not saying that you're not. but it may raise questions. Hmmm. I really wish you the best of luck. I know you say each trip is judged on it's own merit, but I'm sure they will have questions for you. I would even consider calling the UK embassy here in the States and double check that everything will be fine. Thanks, I may just do that. I'm not worried about being seen as a productive and responsible provider- i've been steadily employed at a good paying job since i left the UK. And I was steadily employed up til the day I went to the UK. I paid my own way in the UK, and am not worried about how I'll be viewed to the US embassy. It's the UK i'm worried about at this point. I dont want to burst your bubble. I'm sorry. I just look at everything from every angle. Take a letter from your current employer, paystubs, phone bills, copy of your lease or mortgage, bank statements, hell even childrens' birth certificates and grocery shopping lists. You shouldn't have a problem. And I'd be as open and honest as possible when they ask you about February. I truly hope you will have a great trip. I'll be watching to see how it goes.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-22 23:20:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	QUOTE (Courtney @ Oct 22 2007, 11:54 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Jason-Sasha @ Oct 22 2007, 11:45 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Courtney @ Oct 22 2007, 11:42 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Courtney @ Oct 22 2007, 11:34 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Jason-Sasha @ Oct 22 2007, 11:27 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (julezabelle @ Oct 22 2007, 11:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Courtney @ Oct 22 2007, 11:14 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> so THAT'S what's taking so long! They're sitting there in their little cubicles, thinking of new and cruel ways to toy with us... Hey Courtney - I saw your post about visiting the UK. Not sure if you will be permitted to enter, but it sounds like you have a lot of proof tying you to the US. Just be confident and polite. I hope it goes well!! I'm visiting in Jan with my 8 y/o daughter and am already freaking out if they will admit us. Never had probs before, but adding a kid to the mix makes me nervous. Good news is I have 2 other kids, a full time job, mortgage, etc. to come back to, so I think it will be OK. Fingers crossed for both of us!!! Why would she not be permitted to enter UK. As far as I know, every American with a passport may enter at anytime. Been there several times. Maybe I'm missing something? Ahh, my sordid past... Back in Feb '08 I was denied entry to the UK. I didn't have a return ticket to the US, and i couldn't prove strong ties to the US (so i got to hang out in a detainment room for 8 hours. good times). So i'm going back to the UK this friday, just for a short vacation, and have lots of proof that I will be coming back to the US... but still, i'm terrified. I know the worst that can happen is that i'm sent back to the US, but that truly will be awful. I didn't mean "back in Feb '08", obviously, since we're not there yet... Back in FEB '07 would be more correct. I need to learn how to use the Edit button So, this was 8 months ago? Did they tell you the exact reason for turning you away was because you had no proof of returning? Like if you had a roundtrip ticket there would have been no problems? Just curious, that's all. I got a little handy list of all the reasons I was refused entry. 1. I stayed in the UK as a visitor from September 2006 to February 2007, a period of 5 months 2. I only returned to America 2 weeks ago (from 2/25/07) for a medical appointment. 3. I had no return ticket 4. I previously entered the UK from Eire and consequently only had leave to enter for 3 months. 5. I left my job to travel to the UK in September and was at the time, not employed. I wrote that almost verbatim from the document I recieved at the end of that terrible day. A little repetitive, no? But reason enough to deny me entry I suppose. I think the girl was pretty new to the immigration job. She had to do a lot of re-asking questions, and there was one point I was pretty convinced she was crazy. She kept saying "july" instead of "june" as the day I met my fiance online. She said it about 10 times, and I corrected her every time. I think she must have been trying to trip me up. It wouldn't have taken much at that point- 8 hour flight after about 15 hours of travelling, and then sitting me (terrified) in a detainment room with little to no sleep in 24 hours... It was rough. I think i've blocked out most of it. Whoa. Well, I kinda have to agree with the UK. Sorry to say that. But if you were there for that long and even left your job to live in the UK, they must have viewed you as an illegal immigrant. And maybe even USCIS will have some questions about this. They really want each petitioner to be a productive, responsible provider for the "new arrival". Not saying that you're not. but it may raise questions. Hmmm. I really wish you the best of luck. I know you say each trip is judged on it's own merit, but I'm sure they will have questions for you. I would even consider calling the UK embassy here in the States and double check that everything will be fine.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-22 23:11:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	huh?	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-22 22:54:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Waiting for a NOA2 from VSC for your I-129F?	QUOTE (Courtney @ Oct 22 2007, 11:42 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Courtney @ Oct 22 2007, 11:34 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Jason-Sasha @ Oct 22 2007, 11:27 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (julezabelle @ Oct 22 2007, 11:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (Courtney @ Oct 22 2007, 11:14 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> so THAT'S what's taking so long! They're sitting there in their little cubicles, thinking of new and cruel ways to toy with us... Hey Courtney - I saw your post about visiting the UK. Not sure if you will be permitted to enter, but it sounds like you have a lot of proof tying you to the US. Just be confident and polite. I hope it goes well!! I'm visiting in Jan with my 8 y/o daughter and am already freaking out if they will admit us. Never had probs before, but adding a kid to the mix makes me nervous. Good news is I have 2 other kids, a full time job, mortgage, etc. to come back to, so I think it will be OK. Fingers crossed for both of us!!! Why would she not be permitted to enter UK. As far as I know, every American with a passport may enter at anytime. Been there several times. Maybe I'm missing something? Ahh, my sordid past... Back in Feb '08 I was denied entry to the UK. I didn't have a return ticket to the US, and i couldn't prove strong ties to the US (so i got to hang out in a detainment room for 8 hours. good times). So i'm going back to the UK this friday, just for a short vacation, and have lots of proof that I will be coming back to the US... but still, i'm terrified. I know the worst that can happen is that i'm sent back to the US, but that truly will be awful. I didn't mean "back in Feb '08", obviously, since we're not there yet... Back in FEB '07 would be more correct. I need to learn how to use the Edit button So, this was 8 months ago? Did they tell you the exact reason for turning you away was because you had no proof of returning? Like if you had a roundtrip ticket there would have been no problems? Just curious, that's all.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-10-22 22:45:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	NOA2 Approved!!	Congratulations to you.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-11-12 01:37:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	What is up with CSC?	I spoke to one of those phone answering morons at USCIS last week. I do remember her mentioning that there were many more filers from Southeast Asia than any other region of the globe. Interesting.....	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-11-12 13:10:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Tax Returns	I'm actually kind of glad that its taking so long to receive an NOA2. Sounds strange, in a way. but it will allow me to use 2007 as my "Last year's tax returns". As 2007 was much better for me than 2006. And as long as her interview isnt before the end of January, my 2007 tax returns will be perfect.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-11-12 13:19:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Finally Starting	Good Luck and may you have a speedy approval!	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-11-16 15:42:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	We're Approved	That's great! Congratulations!!	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-11-19 17:52:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	I GOT MY NOA2!	Congratulations to you!!	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-11-24 13:17:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Delbros Fee	Have you tried searching their webpage? http://www.delbros.com/ If you cant find the answer here, then I'd suggest contacting them directly. They list phone numbers and email addresses. Good luck.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-11-24 04:14:00
K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Case Filing and Progress Reports	Any august filers for I-129F	Natsman, I do not understand the logic behind European date format. Or PC friendly date format. When I speak I say today is September 9th, 2007. Month, day, year. simple. I wouldn't say today is 9 September. Nor would I say today is 2007, September 9. Sorry, was just reading your signature. Is it really necessary to shoot down the format of US dating? No matter how you write it, people will understand what you mean. To make it easy I just wrote mine in a format the government uses.	Jason-Sasha	Male	Russia	2007-09-09 19:44:00