ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2
Thanks again.

If the packet 4 takes anywhere from 8-12 weeks, does that mean that
the interview will be scheduled after the packet is supposed to be received which
is anywhere between 60-90 days?

I notice that most people receive their interview around 60 days after NOA 2.
How do i find out when they schedule the interview at consulate in case packet 4 never arrives etc?
Can i call that washington DC phone number that you suggested in your guide?
If so about how long should i wait before i start calling that number?

I also spoke to my fiancee and she said that their is a phone pin number that you
purchase at the bank specifically to make a phone call to consulate specifically
to find out about interview. Wondering if you are familiar with this process.
kingsleyNot TellingDominican Republic2013-03-20 23:13:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2
Hey,

Thanks a ton for the feedback.

After the NOA 2 approval, about how long does it usually take for my fiancee to receive the Packet
to her house in the dominican republic?
Do i also receive a letter from NVC?

BTW,
While we wait for that, i had her go get her Birth Certificate updated and
also her passport.

Is there anything else you think i should have her do while we wait
for her to get the Packet?



No problem at all.

Keep in mind 2 things have changed;

1) The medical exam records are now being sent over to the Consulate, so you will not have to pick them up the day before.

2) Change in Fees:

Before the Interview: 2 separate payments of $160us & $15us at Banco Popular. Make sure you bring both receipts to the Interview.

Day of the Interview: Pay $80us. Pay Domex $9.50-$12(visa delivery service)


kingsleyNot TellingDominican Republic2013-03-20 17:56:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

After Receiving the NOA2

UPDATE 3.0

 

(The information below is specifically for those acquiring K1 Visas in the Dominican Republic; those who are obtaining Cr1/Ir1 Visas may find ?some? of this information useful as well.

 

Note: The NOA1 (Notice of Action) Letter serves as a receipt that your 129f file is on record and in the system. The NOA2 letter is the approval of your petition to bring your fiancé to the USA. Not to be confused, the NOA2 does not mean that they will necessarily obtain a visa. 

 

Note: Both petitioner and beneficiary need to help each other through the process. The Petitioner usually is the better English speaker and can help by filling out the forms and reading important information. The Beneficiary is native to the Dominican Republic and should be familiar with things on their end like (where to obtain birth certificate, passport, etc).

 

GUIDE:

CONGRATS ON YOUR PETITION APPROVAL!!! Below are the steps you need to take next in order to complete the K1 Visa process. Remember the K1 Visa (non-immigrant visa, with Immigrant Intent) is meant for people wishing to marry their fiancée/e inside the USA within 90 days of their arrival.

 

RULE 1: Be ProActive! Don?t wait for anything! Please read the steps below. And don?t forget to BREATHE before reading this, it?s a lot.

*K1 Flowchart: (Timeline of the K1 Process)

http://www.visajourn.../content/k1flow

 

*Dominican Republic Embassy Information

http://www.visajourn...y=Santo Domingo

 

*NOA2 Received

After your case is approved it?s sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) where it?s re-checked and packaged. It?s then forwarded to the Consulate in Santo Domingo. You can now begin gathering evidence for your case and the "required documents" needed for the Interview. The wait time for your Interview is ?usually? 2-4 months. The Embassy will then send the beneficiary (Dominican born) a list of K1 Visa INSTRUCTIONS for your upcoming Interview (Cita). Follow them exactly. The instructions on the Embassy?s website are nearly identical to the instructions the beneficiary will receive by mail (inside Packet 4). 

 

*National Visa Center (NVC) Contact Info: 

http://travel.state....w/how_1463.html

 

**K1 Instructions

http://santodomingo....structions.html (MOST IMPORTANT!!!!)

Additionally, follow the steps here. Again, it's a lot but, it?s worth it! After your case is forwarded to the Consulate in Santo Domingo most people just wait ?unsure? of what?s going on. For you to get valid information just wait 1-2 weeks after receiving your NVC notice and call (toll-free) to the Visa Specialist (Department of State) in Washington D.C. (202-485-7500). Press Option 1 then Option 0 to speak to a visa specialist. (Do not waste your money calling the Consulate or the Mexico Hotline number). The Visa Specialist will tell you when your case was mailed to the beneficiary and when your interview (Cita) date is scheduled. 

 

*Cita Interview List 

http://santodomingo....pointments.html

Keep checking the Interview List (above) to see when your interview is scheduled. Make sure you have Adobe Reader so you can view them. Once you open the file just type in the Case # that was printed on your NVC notice. Ex: NVC Notice (SDO2013...) to find your Interview date. If your date is not listed keep checking to see when it updates with the following month?s appointments.

Your packet (Packet 4) will be mailed by the mail service in Dominican Republic (Inposdom). It may take forever (or it may never arrive at all). The mailing system in the Dominican Republic is ?very bad? and many people never receive their packets. The website below may be of some help. Remember there is no Packet 3, only Packet 4!

 

*Dominican Republic mailing system (Inposdom):

http://inposdom.gob.do/

 

 *FYI

Just an FYI for those that do not receive your packet 4 in the mail. Before you make the trip to the Embassy to get your packet 4 that they say was mailed but you never received (if you are not in a rush). Check with the local post office for your area. My fiancé went to the post office today and picked up his packet 4 that had been sitting there since Monday (was mailed from Embassy on 11/16). They said the city listed was not correct, even though our electricity bill gets delivered no problem with the same city listed as I did on the application. But it saved us a trip to the Embassy and having to wait until two weeks before our interview date. Just thought I would pass this information along and hope it helps someone else (From Reese1...THX)

 

*Waiting Period/Tracking you Case:

In the meantime (DURING the WAITING PERIOD), just keep calling the Visa Specialist, checking the Interview List, and CEAC. Since some people never receive their packets, you need to be proactive! This is huge problem for many Dominican residents who are in the visa process. You wait and wait and wait for something ?so important? to arrive and it may never come. Follow these steps and take care of your business.

#1Follow the K1 Instructions posted on the Embassy?s website

#2 Keep calling the Visa Specialist (National Visa Center and/or Department of State)

#3 Keep checking the Interview List

#4 Check/Track your Visa Case Status (CEAC), use the link below:

https://ceac.state.g...ker/Status.aspx

 

**Preparing for Interview:

Follow the K-1 Visa INSTRUCTIONS. Your Dominican born fiancé/fiancée (beneficiary) needs to begin completing the required forms (for specifics, check the Interview Checklist further down).

Since you have at least a couple of months (varies from 1-4 months) before your interview, you can practice filling out the required forms and finalize them later; they are available on VJ and USCIS). 

Note: All documents can be in either English or Spanish. Any other language must be translated into English.

 

*Obtaining Documents for Interview:

-Cedula: http://photos.state....genes_iv/3.html

-Read the information in the link below:

http://www.jce.gob.d...tranjería.aspx

 

-Birth Certificate: (legalized long/inextensa version): http://photos.state....genes_iv/4.html

-Tell your Dominican fiancée/fiancé to go to the nearest Junta Central Electoral to get the Birth Certificate. They will have to take their Cedula and $20US or pay in RD pesos. (prices may change over time) 

 

-Dominican Passport: http://photos.state....genes_iv/1.html

The Beneficiary will need a Dominican Passport for this process. Once their visa is approved, it will attached to the inside of the passport. Read the information in the link below:

http://www.dominican...po_tramites.asp

 

-Passport Photos Requirement: http://santodomingo....quirements.html

You will need a total of 5 passport pictures for the Visa Process. You will need 3 for the Medical Appointment and 2 for the Visa Interview. Always get a few extra just in case. Photos must be 2x2 in size. 

 

-DS-160: (online) https://ceac.state.g...IV/Default.aspx

This form is required in order to obtain your K1 Visa. It replaces the DS-230, DS-156, DS-156K and DS-157 forms. Make sure you print a copy (with barcode) for your records. More information is available below.

http://santodomingo....rant_visas.html

 

-Police Certification:  (330 pesos RD) Get within 30 days of your interview.  http://photos.state....genes_iv/2.html

More information is available in the link below.

http://www.gob.do/Se...58-001d092f0b84

 

Note: My fiancée and I did all of these things while waiting. Try not to drive yourself crazy. Just use this time to prepare and maintain an ongoing relationship. In addition, gather all the evidence you will need for your interview (phone records, emails, pics, travel documents, receipts, etc). The last thing my fiancée and I did was update/finalize our forms. She got her police report (30 days before her interview date), reprinted visa forms, and I updated my income/employment documents. NOTE: We decided to type (PDF file) all of our information instead of handwriting, it makes things a lot easier to read. My fiancée went to a local notary and had them type in her information and print.

    I had everything done 1 month before the interview but had to get new letters (dates closer to the interview). Remember, some interviews are scheduled much faster than others so you may have less time. U.S. citizens need to bring all documents for the interview with them. If possible, you may need to meet your Dominican-born fiancé/fiancée 1-2 days before the interview to double-check everything before traveling to the Consulate. Hotel accommodations and links are posted below if you plan on staying in a hotel close (and reasonably priced) to the Consulate.

http://www.visajourn...y=Santo Domingo (bottom of the page)

    Finally, during the waiting period, you should also be ?practice-interviewing? each other. Sample interview questions are posted further down. Make sure you know enough about each other. Names of close family members, first date details, how you first met, birthdays, anniversaries, etc. It?s really important both of you have at least one common/fluent language that you communicate in. At the interview, they ask you which language you prefer to speak in (English or Spanish). Interview Experiences are also posted further down.

 

**The Medical Exam (Consultorios De Visa)

The beneficiary?s medical exam will be completed by Consultorios De Visa in Santo Domingo (a few miles from the Consulate). The Medical exam must be done at least 5 business days before your scheduled interview. A good time to go is between 14-10 days before your interview. You will need to take with you the following: Dominican passport, your Cedula (national ID), 3 passport pictures, and your Medical Appointment letter. My fiancée was there ALL DAY (7am-5pm). It?s crowded and very busy. Make sure you bring the exact amount in US dollars (prices vary by age/gender) so you avoid any problems. Although vaccinations are optional for K1 visa holders; it?s strongly recommended that you get your vaccinations too. For more information, check the links below.

 

*Medical Exam info:

http://santodomingo....vaccines-e.html Prices of Exam & Vaccinations

http://www.consultor...om/Consultorios De Visa official site (Includes videos)

 

*Financial Docs: (Affidavits) ? Agreement to be financially responsible for beneficiary.

FYI: Even if your relationship doesn?t work out, you are still financially responsible for the beneficiary if they continue to live legally in the US. This is a legal-binding document.

Once your NOA2 arrives, you need to complete the affidavit and get a letter from your current employer (stating you have a job with them and you make $$$ a year), also you need a letter from your bank (stating how much money you deposited in the past year), and also 3 months of your most recent pay stubs and last 3 years of tax returns. There are 2 affidavits (I-134 and I-864). The I-134 is very easy to complete and is usually needed for the K1 interview. The I-864 takes longer to complete and more evidence and its usually only needed for AOS but sometimes asked for during the K1 interview. For more information on the Affidavit of Support, see the link below:

http://www.visajourn...content/support

To be safe just do them both and prepare. When your fiancé(e) gets his/her Interview Packet, it will tell you what forms you need to bring to the interview. In my case the I-184 was not asked for; the good thing is it was already completed for the AOS process that comes along next. For now I would just complete them both and wait until 2 weeks before the interview date to get a letters from your employer and bank.

 

*K-2 Visas and/or Follow to Join (Bringing children along)

In order to bring the children of the beneficiary (Dominican citizen) to the U.S., you should have listed the children?s names (under 18yrs old) on the original I-129f form. You will need to pay additional passport, visa, medical, and travel fees for each child. You will need to indicate on the DS-160 form (online) which child/children will being coming to the U.S. with you. You will also need to obtain ?written permission? from the other legal parent/guardian of the children to bring them legally to the US. It is called ?Permiso de salida para menores" and it will cost $2000 pesos RD. More information is located under DNA section below.

 

*Follow-to-Join

Is when the child/children of the Dominican beneficiary do not leave together to enter the US. Henceforth, the name ?follow to join?. The child will have to fly with another adult or sometimes solo (depending on age) after the K1 Visa holder has arrived. This happens often, when the child may have to finish school or spend extra time with their other parent/family before leaving their native country. They will need to arrive in the US no more than 1 year after the arrival of the K1 visa holder.  Make sure that are legal forms are unexpired. Read the link below for more information. 

http://santodomingo....procedures.html

 

*DNA Testing

Sometimes a DNA Test is required to prove the father listed on the child?s birth certificate is ?really the real father?.  This is will definitely lengthen your Visa processing time. The wait time can be several extra months. The links are below.

http://santodomingo....atc-120206.html

http://santodomingo...._testing-e.html

FYI: If you are bringing a child that is not yours (biologically); make sure to have written/notarized permission from the biological parent. It is called "Permiso de salida para menores" and it will cost $2000 pesos RD. Read the links below for more details.

http://www.gob.do/Se...58-001d092f0b84

http://www.migracion...ervtarifas.html

 

*Banco Popular:

You are required to pay ?part? of you Visa Fee at Banco Popular. You will need to pay the Visa Application Fee = $175 USD ($160 + $15 service fee) ? 2 separate payments, 2 separate receipts. The Beneficiary will need to pay this at the nearest Banco Popular once you receive your Interview Date. You will need to take your Interview Letter with you that comes in Packet 4, along with your Cedula.

http://santodomingo....structions.html

Note: If you receive your Interview Date before you receive your Packet 4 and your Interview Date is approaching (2 weeks before interview), you need to call the Embassy and schedule a day to pick up a duplicate Packet 4. In order to knockout 2 birds with 1 stone, you need to plan wisely. When you go to pick up the duplicate Packet 4 from the Embassy, it is wise to go immediately to the Medical Office (Consultorios De Visa) and get your medical exam done. The medical cannot be done if you do not receive your Medical Appointment Letter that comes inside of Packet 4.

 

**The Interview

Interview Experiences: (PLEASE READ!!!)

http://www.visajourn...&cty=&dfilter=5

 

*Interview Questions: (Not Dom Rep. specific)

http://www.visajourn...ontent/exampleq

Note: If you are suspected of Visa Fraud, the questioning with be very, very personal and INTENSE! Dominican Republic is a High-Visa Fraud country, so be truthful! This is will lead to you Visa being DENIED!!!

 

*Contacting the Santo Domingo Visa Unit/Consulate

http://santodomingo....-contact-e.html

 

**Things to Know on Interview Day:

-The interview line gets crowded pretty fast. People arrive in line as early as 5am. Just be careful and make sure there are policia in sight.

-Both beneficiary and petitioner must be there! (Automatic denial if both are not there or OPEN Cita if you are lucky!) Open Cita means you are given a random date/time to appear. Since you were no ?originally? scheduled for this day; expect to wait.

-NO electronics are allowed! http://santodomingo....ed_items-e.html

- Interview Documents & Evidence can be carried in many different ways (I used plastic seal-able organized folder with labels for each section). Bottom line is BE ORGANIZED. Know where your documents are and have them ready.

-It's best to be prepared because they look for organization and how well you interact with your partner (who must be there).

-Beware of the buscones! They are not Embassy employees and they will rip you off. Ignore them!

-Ask the guard outside what line you need to be in. There are separate lines for each visa-type (IV and NIV). Men & women are separated when they enter the Embassy. You will go through metal detectors. IV= Immigrant Visa; NIV=Non-Immigrant Visa.

-You will receive a ticket but they are called in ?random order.? So your interview time is not really important. Just don?t arrive too late because your number could be called at anytime.

-Now how to ?sign your partner?s full name correctly?. Couples have been denied for this.

-There are cameras there (and I think they watch how you couples interact with each other) so be aware of that. You may be there anywhere from 3-6 hours.

-Despite the many fans and water fountains, it gets hot in there and a bit uncomfortable (especially the benches). There is a cafeteria where you can buy food and drinks which is good.

-Dress appropriately...Suits for a K1 Visa is probably not necessary and you will may be too hot. I?ve seen people who were very formal and some who look like they were going to a Club. Business-casual or Job-Interview-style is fine.

-Lastly, RELAX! If you?re a ?real? couple and you have your things in order you should be fine. Interviews usually last no more than 5 minutes. Unless you?re at WINDOWS 11 or 13 (Investigations for Fraud). If your case is sent to Administrative Processing, it may take from 6 months-2 years for approval.

-After you?re approved, pay your Domex fee and CELEBRATE! Felicidades!!!

 

 

**K-1 Visa Interview Checklist**

Beneficiary's Documents

- Birth Certificate Inextensa

- Police Certificate

- Passport

- Cedula (National ID Card)

- Medical Exam/Vaccination Results (may be there already, check before attending interview)

- Banco Popular receipts ($160-visa + $15 filing fee)

- Two 2x2 photos (with name printed on the back)

- Letter of Intent (dated and signed)

- DS-160 (online) (replaces previous DS forms) (print out confirmation page and barcode only) 

- Cita appointment letter/packet

- Any Marriage or Divorce Decrees from previous marriages.

- Permiso de salida para menores (for K2 visa) 

 

Petitioner?s Documents

- I-134- Affidavit of Support (financial responsibility) 

- Tax returns for (Last 3 years)

- Letter from Employer

- Recent pay stubs (last 3 months - 6 total)

- Bank account information

- Birth Certificate

- Passport

- Letter of Intent (dated and signed)

 

Other Documents

- Copy of I-129F packet sent

- Original and copy of NOA1

- Original and copy of NOA2

- Original and copy of NVC letter

 

Evidence

- Trip receipts (boarding passes, luggage airline stickers)

- Hotel/resort receipts, reservations

- Cell Phone bills

- Calling Cards

- Western Union/Money Gram receipts

- Internet Messenger service logs (AIM, Windows, SKYPE, BBM, etc)

-Social Media Messages (Facebook, etc)

- International phone bill (Vonage, Magic Jack, etc)

- Emails

- Printed out text messages

- Separate photo binder (with pics on a sheet put in plastic sheet protectors for easy removal)

- Last but not least - all of your prayers!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

*Expenses: (as of November 2013)

- Medical Exam = $180 USD

- Vaccines = $110 USD (optional, but highly recommended) Prices vary based on age/season of the year.

- Banco Popular Visa Application Fee = $175 USD ($160 + $15 service fee) ? 2 separate payments, 2 separate receipts

- Visa Fee paid day of interview at Consulate = $80 USD

- DOMEX Courier Service to approved Visa = $ 9.50 ? 11.00 USD (depending on delivery location) or ask to pick up from Consulate or Santiago.

- Travel & Hotel Expenses = Varies

-New Immigrant fee ($165) is only for Marriage Visas (CR1/IR1) not K1.

 

*Administrative Processing/Review  (Everyone?s Worst Fear, even after visa approval)

Why haven?t you received your Visa yet?  Sometimes when they say you are approved, you really aren?t. (I know, it sucks!!!) Unfortunately, you could be in Administrative Processing/Review. This means that your case has not been finalized yet, due to ?undisclosed reasons?. For example, the beneficiary?s name could be the same/similar to someone who has a history of visa fraud or criminal record.  They will have to do additional background checks. This could take anywhere from 60 days to 2 years. This is a very frustrating part of the process. There is really not much I can tell you but to contact the Consulate to see what the reasoning is. Some people have contacted their local Congressman/Congresswoman for help. This has been beneficial. This could move you case along much faster. Read the links below for more information.

http://santodomingo....processing.html

http://www.visajourn...processes-221g/

 

*Receiving Visa (DomEx)

After your Visa is approved (you will be given a Green ticket), you have to pay Domex (counter located inside of the Consulate) to deliver your Passport (w/ Visa inside) and Medical Results to you. You should receive your visa between 3-14 days (normally). If you pick it up from the Consulate or the Santiago office it?s faster than having them delivery it by courier.  To track your Visa you can use Domex?s website: (make sure you know your tracking #). Inside of your package from Domex, there will be your Passport (w/Visa inside), Medical Results (DS-3025 w/CD of X-ray results), and a manila envelope (w/open slit on one corner) and an Instruction sheet (read it carefully). Do not open the manila envelope, it will need to be taken with you to the airport for Customs. Everything will need to be taken with the beneficiary when they travel to the U.S.

http://www.domex.do/

 

*Purchasing Flights:

Also, NEVER purchase airline tickets for your partner until they have the VISA IN HAND. Once they receive their K-1 Visa from Domex make sure they understand the requirements. They can only use it once to enter the U.S.; and they have 6 months to use it. There will be an expiration date on it. Accompanied with the K-1 Visa is a sealed packet that must not be opened. It will be brought with them to the U.S. and given to the Customs agent once they arrive in the U.S.

Many beneficiaries have to travel to the States alone (unless accompanied with a child) and you meet them at POE. They should be fine going through Customs; just make sure they understand the LAW (you have to get married within 90 days of entering the U.S. then adjust status.) Let your partner know to ?tell Custom?s agent? they are ?entering on a K-1 Visa.? Complete the I-94 electronically (no longer on paper), they will need this later for their Social Security card, Driver?s License, and AOS.

http://cbp.gov/xp/cg...4_instructions/

Note: For CR1 Visa Holders, it will be beneficial to wait until to you have been married for exactly 2 years or more before entering the US. When you enter after the 2 year anniversary, you will automatically receive a 10yr Green Card. If not, you will receive a 2yr Green Card and will have to go through the Removal of Conditions Process.  

 

*Point of Entry (POE) Reviews:

http://www.visajourn...ews.php?stats=1

After you are arm-&-arm with your loved one (you better be after all these months of waiting), relax and enjoy each other. Read up on how to obtain your partner?s Social Security Card and begin planning your marriage/wedding. Read up on State laws for Marriage Licenses. After you are legally married within 90 days, you can immediately file for Adjustment of Status (AOS).

Note: K-1ers cannot legally work, go to school, or travel outside the U.S. until they receive legal documents (Work Authorization Card, Travel Documents and/or Green Card) through the Adjustment of Status process.

 

*What to Bring to the U.S.: These documents will be needed in America if you plan to enter any type of educational program or gain employment.

-High School Transcript and/or copy of Degree (official)

-College Transcript and/or copy of Degree (official)

-Extra Birth Certificate (legalized & inextensa) & accompanying children

-Divorce Document/Decree 

 

*How K1ers Get a Social Security Card:

This can be troublesome for some. Make sure you follow the link below. Around 7-10 days after arriving in the U.S. the K1ers status should be stored in the system. If you go too early, the Social Security office may not have your records. Since you are not married yet, your fiancée will have to get their Social Security card in their birth name. They can change it only after they get married and you have your marriage certificate. Make sure they bring the following documents (K1 Visa, passport, I-94 #, 2 proofs of address, SS-5 form).

http://www.visajourney.com/content/ssn 

 

*Adjusting to Life in the U.S.:

Every couple is different, every experience is different. You can read my experience in the thread below: (Thx Corina)

http://www.visajourn...s/#entry6353428

 

NEXT STOP ON YOUR JOURNEY: Apply for Marriage License...Marriage?Adjustment of Status (AOS) -> -> -> (send me a PM for this guide)

 

*Looking Ahead: (Things you must do after move to the U.S.)

-Adjustment of Status -> Allows K1 visa holders to become a 2yr Permanent Resident/Green Card Holder (can live, work, and study legally) (travel restrictions-you may need a visa to travel to specific countries) K2 (child) visa don?t go through AOS. The AOS Process has no time limit, but the sooner you apply after marriage the faster you can work, study and travel without restrictions.

Estimated Costs:  $1,070                                Estimated Time: 3-6 months

-Removal of Conditions -> Allows K1/CR1 visa holders to become a 10yr Permanent Resident/Green Card Holder (travel restrictions-you may need a visa to travel to specific countries) K2 (child) visa will need to Remove Conditions.

Estimated Costs:   $595                               Estimated Time:  7-9 months

-Naturalization -> Allows you to become a US Citizen after 3 years of marriage with your U.S. Citizen spouse. (Gives you all the benefits of a Natural-born citizen: voting, traveling, etc) 

Estimated Costs:   $680                                Estimated Time: 3-5 months

 

Have a Great Journey!

MrTee12


Edited by MrTee12, 17 November 2013 - 10:59 PM.

MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2013-11-17 22:58:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

The next update (#3) will be out this upcoming week.

 

Updates include:

 

-DS 160 (online)

-Tracking your case throughout (ceac)

-K2 visa (children)

-How to obtain Visa documents (birth certificate, cedula, police rep, etc)

-Administrative Processing/Review

-What's next after arriving in the US. 

 


Edited by MrTee12, 09 November 2013 - 10:02 AM.

MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2013-11-09 09:57:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

 So how to do we get an inextensa?  Are there instructions somewhere? The embassy website doesn't give instructions; the website only says we need it.  We had our visa interview Thursday. (I am going to post a review of it)  They told us everything was approved but that we need to get an original birth certificate.  My girlfriend is from the Dominican Republic.  She had a Dominican lawyer help us out.  We paid him twice now and both times he has given us the abstract birth certificate and says we don't need anything else.  Arrrgghhh. Frustrating.  No visa yet.  The only thing stopping us now is inextensa.

 

  

Tell your fiancee to go to the nearest Junta Central Electoral to get he Birth Certificate. She will have to take her Cedula and $20US. 

 

  Also, I will add to that I had a problem at the airport in Phoenix, Arizona.  I bought one way tickets as I didn't know what day we would actually get the visa.  American Airlines wouldn't let me go on my flight until I bought a return ticket!   They said I cannot go to a different country unless I showed proof of leaving!  Ridiculous!  Of course, now they are going to charge me a 200 dollar fee when I have to change my flight.

It's the law. You have to always buy a 2-way ticket as a visitor to another country (people cannot emigrate illegally, you know ;) ). You will need to just change the flight of the return ticket whenever you have the "visa in hand". 


MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2013-10-12 11:22:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

Yes, the blue letter said that our case was approved and said the date and time of our interview, thats the one i need for my medical exam? Besides my passport and photo?

 

Take that letter, $$, passport, cedula, and photos to the medical office at least 10 days before your scheduled interview to get your medical exam completed. 


Edited by MrTee12, 13 September 2013 - 03:37 PM.

MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2013-09-13 15:37:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

Hi to all

i have a question, yesterday i receive my packet 4 and when i was looking at it i didnt had any information of the medical exam, i just receive the approval letter, the instructions of what to do from now on and 2 forms, thats means my packet its incompleate?? in that case where should i call to get all the information im suppose to receive? Or can i take my medical exam only with the appoval letter i receive?

 

I will appreciate your comments  

 

There was no blue medical appointment letter? Wow. It must be a mistake. I would contact the the Embassy immediately. You may need to go to Santo Domingo to pick up a duplicate copy. 


MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2013-09-12 18:40:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

Not to confuse anyone, but there's an error in the cost of the visa on the last update. 

Error in bold is correct now. You have to pay $160 not $140. Sorry for the mistake. 

 

*Expenses: (as of July 2013)
- Medical Exam = $180 USD
- Vaccines = $110 USD (optional, but highly recommended) Prices vary based on age.
- Banco Popular Visa Application Fee = $156 USD ($160 + $16 service fee) ? 2 separate payments, 2 separate receipts
- Visa Fee paid day of interview at Consulate = $80 USD
- DOMEX Courier Service to approved Visa = $ 9.50 ? 12 USD (depending on delivery location) or ask to pick up from Consulate or Santiago.
- Travel & Hotel Expenses = Varies





New Immigrant fee ($165) is only for Marriage Visas (CR1/IR1) not K1.

http://www.uscis.gov...00045f3d6a1RCRD

 


MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2013-09-06 10:55:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

 Thank you. 

You're welcome.

 

 

We are doing everything we can to pass this interview. 

As you should!

 

 

My fiance and I don't have any kids, so it looks like we will just need the DS-156, DS-0156-K, and the DS-130 Part 1 form.  The embassy website states "You must fill out Form DS-156 online, each application will generate a specific barcode for each printed form."   This means it has to be submitted electronically somehow or  does this mean it just has to be typed and not hand written?   My fiance has to take these 3 forms along with proof of our relationship to the banco when she pays for the fee?

 

Yea, take the visa forms and the correct amount of money to any Banco Popular. After you complete the DS-150 (online) you will need to print it. 

 

 

Thanks again. I am nervous about this whole process. 

 

Try to not over-stress. Read up on what's required as much as possible. Be prepared! If you 2 are a real couple and have no red flags (criminal history, previous visa fraud), there's no reason to worry. 

 


MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2013-08-31 21:54:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

Do I need to bring a police report on my self or does only my fiance in the Dominican Republic need one?

Only your fiancee needs to obtain one and bring it to the Interview. Your background checks are done when you submitted you information with the USCIS petition. 

 

 

Thank you so much.  This has been so helpful!  My fiance and I have our interview date in October.  She still hasn't gotten anything in the mail from the embassy nor a call from the embassy.  I called and they said the package was sent to her beginning of August. I suppose she is going to have to go to the embassy to get the package.

 

No problem. Some people never receive their packet. You have to be pro-active. Keeping calling NVC/DOS and check the nearest post office. Prepare for the interview along the way. 


MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2013-08-26 11:13:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2
To check/track your Visa Case Status after your interview has been completed, use the link below:

https://ceac.state.g...ker/Status.aspx


MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2013-08-10 06:24:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

updated list of interview until 12/18/13, good luck..!

 

Link:  

http://santodomingo....pointments.html


lala78MaleDominican Republic2013-09-13 10:27:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

It was via email or mail ?


lala78MaleDominican Republic2013-09-12 12:36:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

Hi to all

i have a question, yesterday i receive my packet 4 and when i was looking at it i didnt had any information of the medical exam, i just receive the approval letter, the instructions of what to do from now on and 2 forms, thats means my packet its incompleate?? in that case where should i call to get all the information im suppose to receive? Or can i take my medical exam only with the appoval letter i receive?

 

I will appreciate your comments  

hi, When the embassy received your papers? .... please uptade your timeline...


lala78MaleDominican Republic2013-09-12 12:00:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

Hello,

 

So I think we might have made a mistake and I was wondering if anyone has the answers to it.

 

My fiance just took $160 + $15 to Banco Popular and paid for both of the required items.  She received the receipts but I just read on here that she had needs to bring the three documents, DS-156, DS - 230, and DS - 156k.   She didn't bring those in when she went to pay.

 

Will this matter?


EricyJessMaleDominican Republic2013-09-28 07:17:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

  Also, I will add to that I had a problem at the airport in Phoenix, Arizona.  I bought one way tickets as I didn't know what day we would actually get the visa.  American Airlines wouldn't let me go on my flight until I bought a return ticket!   They said I cannot go to a different country unless I showed proof of leaving!  Ridiculous!  Of course, now they are going to charge me a 200 dollar fee when I have to change my flight.


mavmbMaleDominican Republic2013-10-12 09:15:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

 So how to do we get an inextensa?  Are there instructions somewhere? The embassy website doesn't give instructions; the website only says we need it.  We had our visa interview Thursday. (I am going to post a review of it)  They told us everything was approved but that we need to get an original birth certificate.  My girlfriend is from the Dominican Republic.  She had a Dominican lawyer help us out.  We paid him twice now and both times he has given us the abstract birth certificate and says we don't need anything else.  Arrrgghhh. Frustrating.  No visa yet.  The only thing stopping us now is inextensa.

 

  


mavmbMaleDominican Republic2013-10-12 09:13:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

 Thank you Mr. Tee.  We both have clean records and no children nor previous marriages, so this should be simple I know. I am just worried about not having one of these forms filled out correctly.  I guess then the DS-156, when you print it from the website, it generates a bar code that is used later?  I was confused because I thought the form had to be submitted or uploaded somewhere on the website before the interview.   I worry too much I know


mavmbMaleDominican Republic2013-09-01 19:02:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

 Thank you.  We are doing everything we can to pass this interview.  My fiance and I don't have any kids, so it looks like we will just need the DS-156, DS-0156-K, and the DS-130 Part 1 form.  The embassy website states "You must fill out Form DS-156 online, each application will generate a specific barcode for each printed form."   This means it has to be submitted electronically somehow or  does this mean it just has to be typed and not hand written?   My fiance has to take these 3 forms along with proof of our relationship to the banco when she pays for the fee? Thanks again. I am nervous about this whole process. 


mavmbMaleDominican Republic2013-08-31 16:08:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

Do I need to bring a police report on my self or does only my fiance in the Dominican Republic need one?


Edited by mavmb, 25 August 2013 - 05:40 PM.

mavmbMaleDominican Republic2013-08-25 17:39:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

Thank you so much.  This has been so helpful!  My fiance and I have our interview date in October.  She still hasn't gotten anything in the mail from the embassy nor a call from the embassy.  I called and they said the package was sent to her beginning of August. I suppose she is going to have to go to the embassy to get the package.


mavmbMaleDominican Republic2013-08-25 17:33:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2
Thank you for your help :)
RomakNot TellingDominican Republic2013-09-13 16:22:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2
Yes, the blue letter said that our case was approved and said the date and time of our interview, thats the one i need for my medical exam? Besides my passport and photo?
RomakNot TellingDominican Republic2013-09-12 20:24:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

by mail


by mail


RomakNot TellingDominican Republic2013-09-12 12:37:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

Hi to all

i have a question, yesterday i receive my packet 4 and when i was looking at it i didnt had any information of the medical exam, i just receive the approval letter, the instructions of what to do from now on and 2 forms, thats means my packet its incompleate?? in that case where should i call to get all the information im suppose to receive? Or can i take my medical exam only with the appoval letter i receive?

 

I will appreciate your comments  


RomakNot TellingDominican Republic2013-09-12 11:44:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

*Added info about DS-156k form needed for interview.

 

After Receiving the NOA2

UPDATE 3.1

 

(The information below is specifically for those acquiring K1 Visas in the Dominican Republic; those who are obtaining Cr1/Ir1 Visas may find ?some? of this information useful as well.

 

Note: The NOA1 (Notice of Action) Letter serves as a receipt that your 129f file is on record and in the system. The NOA2 letter is the approval of your petition to bring your fiancé to the USA. Not to be confused, the NOA2 does not mean that they will necessarily obtain a visa. 

 

Note: Both petitioner and beneficiary need to help each other through the process. The Petitioner usually is the better English speaker and can help by filling out the forms and reading important information. The Beneficiary is native to the Dominican Republic and should be familiar with things on their end like (where to obtain birth certificate, passport, etc).

 

GUIDE:

CONGRATS ON YOUR PETITION APPROVAL!!! Below are the steps you need to take next in order to complete the K1 Visa process. Remember the K1 Visa (non-immigrant visa, with Immigrant Intent) is meant for people wishing to marry their fiancée/e inside the USA within 90 days of their arrival.

 

RULE 1: Be ProActive! Don?t wait for anything! Please read the steps below. And don?t forget to BREATHE before reading this, it?s a lot.

*K1 Flowchart: (Timeline of the K1 Process)

http://www.visajourn.../content/k1flow

 

*Dominican Republic Embassy Information

http://www.visajourn...y=Santo Domingo

 

*NOA2 Received

After your case is approved it?s sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) where it?s re-checked and packaged. It?s then forwarded to the Consulate in Santo Domingo. You can now begin gathering evidence for your case and the "required documents" needed for the Interview. The wait time for your Interview is ?usually? 2-4 months. The Embassy will then send the beneficiary (Dominican born) a list of K1 Visa INSTRUCTIONS for your upcoming Interview (Cita). Follow them exactly. The instructions on the Embassy?s website are nearly identical to the instructions the beneficiary will receive by mail (inside Packet 4). 

 

*National Visa Center (NVC) Contact Info: 

http://travel.state....w/how_1463.html

 

**K1 Instructions

http://santodomingo....structions.html (MOST IMPORTANT!!!!)

Additionally, follow the steps here. Again, it's a lot but, it?s worth it! After your case is forwarded to the Consulate in Santo Domingo most people just wait ?unsure? of what?s going on. For you to get valid information just wait 1-2 weeks after receiving your NVC notice and call (toll-free) to the Visa Specialist (Department of State) in Washington D.C. (202-485-7500). Press Option 1 then Option 0 to speak to a visa specialist. (Do not waste your money calling the Consulate or the Mexico Hotline number). The Visa Specialist will tell you when your case was mailed to the beneficiary and when your interview (Cita) date is scheduled. 

 

*Cita Interview List 

http://santodomingo....pointments.html

Keep checking the Interview List (above) to see when your interview is scheduled. Make sure you have Adobe Reader so you can view them. Once you open the file just type in the Case # that was printed on your NVC notice. Ex: NVC Notice (SDO2013...) to find your Interview date. If your date is not listed keep checking to see when it updates with the following month?s appointments.

Your packet (Packet 4) will be mailed by the mail service in Dominican Republic (Inposdom). It may take forever (or it may never arrive at all). The mailing system in the Dominican Republic is ?very bad? and many people never receive their packets. The website below may be of some help. Remember there is no Packet 3, only Packet 4!

 

*Dominican Republic mailing system (Inposdom):

http://inposdom.gob.do/

 

 *FYI

Just an FYI for those that do not receive your packet 4 in the mail. Before you make the trip to the Embassy to get your packet 4 that they say was mailed but you never received (if you are not in a rush). Check with the local post office for your area. My fiancé went to the post office today and picked up his packet 4 that had been sitting there since Monday (was mailed from Embassy on 11/16). They said the city listed was not correct, even though our electricity bill gets delivered no problem with the same city listed as I did on the application. But it saved us a trip to the Embassy and having to wait until two weeks before our interview date. Just thought I would pass this information along and hope it helps someone else (From Reese1...THX)

 

*Waiting Period/Tracking you Case:

In the meantime (DURING the WAITING PERIOD), just keep calling the Visa Specialist, checking the Interview List, and CEAC. Since some people never receive their packets, you need to be proactive! This is huge problem for many Dominican residents who are in the visa process. You wait and wait and wait for something ?so important? to arrive and it may never come. Follow these steps and take care of your business.

#1Follow the K1 Instructions posted on the Embassy?s website

#2 Keep calling the Visa Specialist (National Visa Center and/or Department of State)

#3 Keep checking the Interview List

#4 Check/Track your Visa Case Status (CEAC), use the link below:

https://ceac.state.g...ker/Status.aspx

 

**Preparing for Interview:

Follow the K-1 Visa INSTRUCTIONS. Your Dominican born fiancé/fiancée (beneficiary) needs to begin completing the required forms (for specifics, check the Interview Checklist further down).

Since you have at least a couple of months (varies from 1-4 months) before your interview, you can practice filling out the required forms and finalize them later; they are available on VJ and USCIS). 

Note: All documents can be in either English or Spanish. Any other language must be translated into English.

 

*Obtaining Documents for Interview:

-Cedula: http://photos.state....genes_iv/3.html

-Read the information in the link below:

http://www.jce.gob.d...tranjería.aspx

 

-Birth Certificate: (legalized long/inextensa version): http://photos.state....genes_iv/4.html

-Tell your Dominican fiancée/fiancé to go to the nearest Junta Central Electoral to get the Birth Certificate. They will have to take their Cedula and $20US or pay in RD pesos. (prices may change over time) 

 

-Dominican Passport: http://photos.state....genes_iv/1.html

The Beneficiary will need a Dominican Passport for this process. Once their visa is approved, it will attached to the inside of the passport. Read the information in the link below:

http://www.dominican...po_tramites.asp

 

-Passport Photos Requirement: http://santodomingo....quirements.html

You will need a total of 5 passport pictures for the Visa Process. You will need 3 for the Medical Appointment and 2 for the Visa Interview. Always get a few extra just in case. Photos must be 2x2 in size. 

 

-DS-160: (online) https://ceac.state.g...IV/Default.aspx

This form is required in order to obtain your K1 Visa. It replaces the DS-230, DS-156, and DS-157 forms. Make sure you print a copy (with barcode) for your records. More information is available below.

http://santodomingo....rant_visas.html

 

-DS-156k  http://www.state.gov...ation/82063.pdf

This is to being completed if the K-1 Visa holder/Dominican resident is a MALE. 

 

-Police Certification:  (330 pesos RD) Get within 30 days of your interview.  http://photos.state....genes_iv/2.html

More information is available in the link below.

http://www.gob.do/Se...58-001d092f0b84

 

Note: My fiancée and I did all of these things while waiting. Try not to drive yourself crazy. Just use this time to prepare and maintain an ongoing relationship. In addition, gather all the evidence you will need for your interview (phone records, emails, pics, travel documents, receipts, etc). The last thing my fiancée and I did was update/finalize our forms. She got her police report (30 days before her interview date), reprinted visa forms, and I updated my income/employment documents. NOTE: We decided to type (PDF file) all of our information instead of handwriting, it makes things a lot easier to read. My fiancée went to a local notary and had them type in her information and print.

    I had everything done 1 month before the interview but had to get new letters (dates closer to the interview). Remember, some interviews are scheduled much faster than others so you may have less time. U.S. citizens need to bring all documents for the interview with them. If possible, you may need to meet your Dominican-born fiancé/fiancée 1-2 days before the interview to double-check everything before traveling to the Consulate. Hotel accommodations and links are posted below if you plan on staying in a hotel close (and reasonably priced) to the Consulate.

http://www.visajourn...y=Santo Domingo (bottom of the page)

    Finally, during the waiting period, you should also be ?practice-interviewing? each other. Sample interview questions are posted further down. Make sure you know enough about each other. Names of close family members, first date details, how you first met, birthdays, anniversaries, etc. It?s really important both of you have at least one common/fluent language that you communicate in. At the interview, they ask you which language you prefer to speak in (English or Spanish). Interview Experiences are also posted further down.

 

**The Medical Exam (Consultorios De Visa)

The beneficiary?s medical exam will be completed by Consultorios De Visa in Santo Domingo (a few miles from the Consulate). The Medical exam must be done at least 5 business days before your scheduled interview. A good time to go is between 14-10 days before your interview. You will need to take with you the following: Dominican passport, your Cedula (national ID), 3 passport pictures, and your Medical Appointment letter. My fiancée was there ALL DAY (7am-5pm). It?s crowded and very busy. Make sure you bring the exact amount in US dollars (prices vary by age/gender) so you avoid any problems. Although vaccinations are optional for K1 visa holders; it?s strongly recommended that you get your vaccinations too. For more information, check the links below.

 

*Medical Exam info:

http://santodomingo....vaccines-e.html Prices of Exam & Vaccinations

http://www.consultor...om/Consultorios De Visa official site (Includes videos)

 

*Financial Docs: (Affidavits) ? Agreement to be financially responsible for beneficiary.

FYI: Even if your relationship doesn?t work out, you are still financially responsible for the beneficiary if they continue to live legally in the US. This is a legal-binding document.

Once your NOA2 arrives, you need to complete the affidavit and get a letter from your current employer (stating you have a job with them and you make $$$ a year), also you need a letter from your bank (stating how much money you deposited in the past year), and also 3 months of your most recent pay stubs and last 3 years of tax returns. There are 2 affidavits (I-134 and I-864). The I-134 is very easy to complete and is usually needed for the K1 interview. The I-864 takes longer to complete and more evidence and its usually only needed for AOS but sometimes asked for during the K1 interview. For more information on the Affidavit of Support, see the link below:

http://www.visajourn...content/support

To be safe just do them both and prepare. When your fiancé(e) gets his/her Interview Packet, it will tell you what forms you need to bring to the interview. In my case the I-184 was not asked for; the good thing is it was already completed for the AOS process that comes along next. For now I would just complete them both and wait until 2 weeks before the interview date to get a letters from your employer and bank.

 

*K-2 Visas and/or Follow to Join (Bringing children along)

In order to bring the children of the beneficiary (Dominican citizen) to the U.S., you should have listed the children?s names (under 18yrs old) on the original I-129f form. You will need to pay additional passport, visa, medical, and travel fees for each child. You will need to indicate on the DS-160 form (online) which child/children will being coming to the U.S. with you. You will also need to obtain ?written permission? from the other legal parent/guardian of the children to bring them legally to the US. It is called ?Permiso de salida para menores" and it will cost $2000 pesos RD. More information is located under DNA section below.

 

*Follow-to-Join

Is when the child/children of the Dominican beneficiary do not leave together to enter the US. Henceforth, the name ?follow to join?. The child will have to fly with another adult or sometimes solo (depending on age) after the K1 Visa holder has arrived. This happens often, when the child may have to finish school or spend extra time with their other parent/family before leaving their native country. They will need to arrive in the US no more than 1 year after the arrival of the K1 visa holder.  Make sure that are legal forms are unexpired. Read the link below for more information. 

http://santodomingo....procedures.html

 

*DNA Testing

Sometimes a DNA Test is required to prove the father listed on the child?s birth certificate is ?really the real father?.  This is will definitely lengthen your Visa processing time. The wait time can be several extra months. The links are below.

http://santodomingo....atc-120206.html

http://santodomingo...._testing-e.html

FYI: If you are bringing a child that is not yours (biologically); make sure to have written/notarized permission from the biological parent. It is called "Permiso de salida para menores" and it will cost $2000 pesos RD. Read the links below for more details.

http://www.gob.do/Se...58-001d092f0b84

http://www.migracion...ervtarifas.html

 

*Banco Popular:

You are required to pay ?part? of you Visa Fee at Banco Popular. You will need to pay the Visa Application Fee = $175 USD ($160 + $15 service fee) ? 2 separate payments, 2 separate receipts. The Beneficiary will need to pay this at the nearest Banco Popular once you receive your Interview Date. You will need to take your Interview Letter with you that comes in Packet 4, along with your Cedula.

http://santodomingo....structions.html

Note: If you receive your Interview Date before you receive your Packet 4 and your Interview Date is approaching (2 weeks before interview), you need to call the Embassy and schedule a day to pick up a duplicate Packet 4. In order to knockout 2 birds with 1 stone, you need to plan wisely. When you go to pick up the duplicate Packet 4 from the Embassy, it is wise to go immediately to the Medical Office (Consultorios De Visa) and get your medical exam done. The medical cannot be done if you do not receive your Medical Appointment Letter that comes inside of Packet 4.

 

**The Interview

Interview Experiences: (PLEASE READ!!!)

http://www.visajourn...&cty=&dfilter=5

 

*Interview Questions: (Not Dom Rep. specific)

http://www.visajourn...ontent/exampleq

Note: If you are suspected of Visa Fraud, the questioning with be very, very personal and INTENSE! Dominican Republic is a High-Visa Fraud country, so be truthful! This is will lead to you Visa being DENIED!!!

 

*Contacting the Santo Domingo Visa Unit/Consulate

http://santodomingo....-contact-e.html

 

**Things to Know on Interview Day:

-The interview line gets crowded pretty fast. People arrive in line as early as 5am. Just be careful and make sure there are policia in sight.

-Both beneficiary and petitioner must be there! (Automatic denial if both are not there or OPEN Cita if you are lucky!) Open Cita means you are given a random date/time to appear. Since you were no ?originally? scheduled for this day; expect to wait.

-NO electronics are allowed! http://santodomingo....ed_items-e.html

- Interview Documents & Evidence can be carried in many different ways (I used plastic seal-able organized folder with labels for each section). Bottom line is BE ORGANIZED. Know where your documents are and have them ready.

-It's best to be prepared because they look for organization and how well you interact with your partner (who must be there).

-Beware of the buscones! They are not Embassy employees and they will rip you off. Ignore them!

-Ask the guard outside what line you need to be in. There are separate lines for each visa-type (IV and NIV). Men & women are separated when they enter the Embassy. You will go through metal detectors. IV= Immigrant Visa; NIV=Non-Immigrant Visa.

-You will receive a ticket but they are called in ?random order.? So your interview time is not really important. Just don?t arrive too late because your number could be called at anytime.

-Now how to ?sign your partner?s full name correctly?. Couples have been denied for this.

-There are cameras there (and I think they watch how you couples interact with each other) so be aware of that. You may be there anywhere from 3-6 hours.

-Despite the many fans and water fountains, it gets hot in there and a bit uncomfortable (especially the benches). There is a cafeteria where you can buy food and drinks which is good.

-Dress appropriately...Suits for a K1 Visa is probably not necessary and you will may be too hot. I?ve seen people who were very formal and some who look like they were going to a Club. Business-casual or Job-Interview-style is fine.

-Lastly, RELAX! If you?re a ?real? couple and you have your things in order you should be fine. Interviews usually last no more than 5 minutes. Unless you?re at WINDOWS 11 or 13 (Investigations for Fraud). If your case is sent to Administrative Processing, it may take from 6 months-2 years for approval.

-After you?re approved, pay your Domex fee and CELEBRATE! Felicidades!!!

 

 

**K-1 Visa Interview Checklist**

Beneficiary's Documents

- Birth Certificate Inextensa

- Police Certificate

- Passport

- Cedula (National ID Card)

- Medical Exam/Vaccination Results (may be there already, check before attending interview)

- Banco Popular receipts ($160-visa + $15 filing fee)

- Two 2x2 photos (with name printed on the back)

- Letter of Intent (dated and signed)

- DS-160 (online) (replaces previous DS forms) (print out confirmation page and barcode only) 

-DS-156k (if Dominican resident is a MALE)

- Cita appointment letter/packet

- Any Marriage or Divorce Decrees from previous marriages.

- Permiso de salida para menores (for K2 visa) 

 

Petitioner?s Documents

- I-134- Affidavit of Support (financial responsibility) 

- Tax returns for (Last 3 years)

- Letter from Employer

- Recent pay stubs (last 3 months - 6 total)

- Bank account information

- Birth Certificate

- Passport

- Letter of Intent (dated and signed)

 

Other Documents

- Copy of I-129F packet sent

- Original and copy of NOA1

- Original and copy of NOA2

- Original and copy of NVC letter

 

Evidence

- Trip receipts (boarding passes, luggage airline stickers)

- Hotel/resort receipts, reservations

- Cell Phone bills

- Calling Cards

- Western Union/Money Gram receipts

- Internet Messenger service logs (AIM, Windows, SKYPE, BBM, etc)

-Social Media Messages (Facebook, etc)

- International phone bill (Vonage, Magic Jack, etc)

- Emails

- Printed out text messages

- Separate photo binder (with pics on a sheet put in plastic sheet protectors for easy removal)

- Last but not least - all of your prayers!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

*Expenses: (as of November 2013)

- Medical Exam = $180 USD

- Vaccines = $110 USD (optional, but highly recommended) Prices vary based on age/season of the year.

- Banco Popular Visa Application Fee = $175 USD ($160 + $15 service fee) ? 2 separate payments, 2 separate receipts

- Visa Fee paid day of interview at Consulate = $80 USD

- DOMEX Courier Service to approved Visa = $ 9.50 ? 11.00 USD (depending on delivery location) or ask to pick up from Consulate or Santiago.

- Travel & Hotel Expenses = Varies

-New Immigrant fee ($165) is only for Marriage Visas (CR1/IR1) not K1.

 

*Administrative Processing/Review  (Everyone?s Worst Fear, even after visa approval)

Why haven?t you received your Visa yet?  Sometimes when they say you are approved, you really aren?t. (I know, it sucks!!!) Unfortunately, you could be in Administrative Processing/Review. This means that your case has not been finalized yet, due to ?undisclosed reasons?. For example, the beneficiary?s name could be the same/similar to someone who has a history of visa fraud or criminal record.  They will have to do additional background checks. This could take anywhere from 60 days to 2 years. This is a very frustrating part of the process. There is really not much I can tell you but to contact the Consulate to see what the reasoning is. Some people have contacted their local Congressman/Congresswoman for help. This has been beneficial. This could move you case along much faster. Read the links below for more information.

http://santodomingo....processing.html

http://www.visajourn...processes-221g/

 

*Receiving Visa (DomEx)

After your Visa is approved (you will be given a Green ticket), you have to pay Domex (counter located inside of the Consulate) to deliver your Passport (w/ Visa inside) and Medical Results to you. You should receive your visa between 3-14 days (normally). If you pick it up from the Consulate or the Santiago office it?s faster than having them delivery it by courier.  To track your Visa you can use Domex?s website: (make sure you know your tracking #). Inside of your package from Domex, there will be your Passport (w/Visa inside), Medical Results (DS-3025 w/CD of X-ray results), and a manila envelope (w/open slit on one corner) and an Instruction sheet (read it carefully). Do not open the manila envelope, it will need to be taken with you to the airport for Customs. Everything will need to be taken with the beneficiary when they travel to the U.S.

http://www.domex.do/

 

*Purchasing Flights:

Also, NEVER purchase airline tickets for your partner until they have the VISA IN HAND. Once they receive their K-1 Visa from Domex make sure they understand the requirements. They can only use it once to enter the U.S.; and they have 6 months to use it. There will be an expiration date on it. Accompanied with the K-1 Visa is a sealed packet that must not be opened. It will be brought with them to the U.S. and given to the Customs agent once they arrive in the U.S.

Many beneficiaries have to travel to the States alone (unless accompanied with a child) and you meet them at POE. They should be fine going through Customs; just make sure they understand the LAW (you have to get married within 90 days of entering the U.S. then adjust status.) Let your partner know to ?tell Custom?s agent? they are ?entering on a K-1 Visa.? Complete the I-94 electronically (no longer on paper), they will need this later for their Social Security card, Driver?s License, and AOS.

http://cbp.gov/xp/cg...4_instructions/

Note: For CR1 Visa Holders, it will be beneficial to wait until to you have been married for exactly 2 years or more before entering the US. When you enter after the 2 year anniversary, you will automatically receive a 10yr Green Card. If not, you will receive a 2yr Green Card and will have to go through the Removal of Conditions Process.  

 

*Point of Entry (POE) Reviews:

http://www.visajourn...ews.php?stats=1

After you are arm-&-arm with your loved one (you better be after all these months of waiting), relax and enjoy each other. Read up on how to obtain your partner?s Social Security Card and begin planning your marriage/wedding. Read up on State laws for Marriage Licenses. After you are legally married within 90 days, you can immediately file for Adjustment of Status (AOS).

Note: K-1ers cannot legally work, go to school, or travel outside the U.S. until they receive legal documents (Work Authorization Card, Travel Documents and/or Green Card) through the Adjustment of Status process.

 

*What to Bring to the U.S.: These documents will be needed in America if you plan to enter any type of educational program or gain employment.

-High School Transcript and/or copy of Degree (official)

-College Transcript and/or copy of Degree (official)

-Extra Birth Certificate (legalized & inextensa) & accompanying children

-Divorce Document/Decree 

 

*How K1ers Get a Social Security Card:

This can be troublesome for some. Make sure you follow the link below. Around 7-10 days after arriving in the U.S. the K1ers status should be stored in the system. If you go too early, the Social Security office may not have your records. Since you are not married yet, your fiancée will have to get their Social Security card in their birth name. They can change it only after they get married and you have your marriage certificate. Make sure they bring the following documents (K1 Visa, passport, I-94 #, 2 proofs of address, SS-5 form).

http://www.visajourney.com/content/ssn 

 

*Adjusting to Life in the U.S.:

Every couple is different, every experience is different. You can read my experience in the thread below: (Thx Corina)

http://www.visajourn...s/#entry6353428

 

NEXT STOP ON YOUR JOURNEY: Apply for Marriage License...Marriage?Adjustment of Status (AOS) -> -> -> (send me a PM for this guide)

 

*Looking Ahead: (Things you must do after move to the U.S.)

-Adjustment of Status -> Allows K1 visa holders to become a 2yr Permanent Resident/Green Card Holder (can live, work, and study legally) (travel restrictions-you may need a visa to travel to specific countries) K2 (child) visa don?t go through AOS. The AOS Process has no time limit, but the sooner you apply after marriage the faster you can work, study and travel without restrictions.

Estimated Costs:  $1,070                                Estimated Time: 3-6 months

-Removal of Conditions -> Allows K1/CR1 visa holders to become a 10yr Permanent Resident/Green Card Holder (travel restrictions-you may need a visa to travel to specific countries) K2 (child) visa will need to Remove Conditions.

Estimated Costs:   $595                               Estimated Time:  7-9 months

-Naturalization -> Allows you to become a US Citizen after 3 years of marriage with your U.S. Citizen spouse. (Gives you all the benefits of a Natural-born citizen: voting, traveling, etc) 

Estimated Costs:   $680                                Estimated Time: 3-5 months

 

Have a Great Journey!

MrTee12

 

 


Edited by MrTee12, 28 November 2013 - 12:47 PM.

MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2013-11-28 12:43:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2
If we have a child that was born in the U.S , do I need evidence for her ? Or does it not matter since she's a USC
MiltonAnayaNot TellingDominican Republic2013-11-19 10:19:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

*Corrected error with DOS phone number. 

 

After Receiving the NOA2

UPDATE 3.2

 

(The information below is specifically for those acquiring K1 Visas in the Dominican Republic; those who are obtaining Cr1/Ir1 Visas may find ?some? of this information useful as well.

 

Note: The NOA1 (Notice of Action) Letter serves as a receipt that your 129f file is on record and in the system. The NOA2 letter is the approval of your petition to bring your fiancé to the USA. Not to be confused, the NOA2 does not mean that they will necessarily obtain a visa. 

 

Note: Both petitioner and beneficiary need to help each other through the process. The Petitioner usually is the better English speaker and can help by filling out the forms and reading important information. The Beneficiary is native to the Dominican Republic and should be familiar with things on their end like (where to obtain birth certificate, passport, etc).

 

GUIDE:

CONGRATS ON YOUR PETITION APPROVAL!!! Below are the steps you need to take next in order to complete the K1 Visa process. Remember the K1 Visa (non-immigrant visa, with Immigrant Intent) is meant for people wishing to marry their fiancée/e inside the USA within 90 days of their arrival.

 

RULE 1: Be ProActive! Don?t wait for anything! Please read the steps below. And don?t forget to BREATHE before reading this, it?s a lot.

*K1 Flowchart: (Timeline of the K1 Process)

http://www.visajourn.../content/k1flow

 

*Dominican Republic Embassy Information

http://www.visajourn...y=Santo Domingo

 

*NOA2 Received

After your case is approved it?s sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) where it?s re-checked and packaged. It?s then forwarded to the Consulate in Santo Domingo. You can now begin gathering evidence for your case and the "required documents" needed for the Interview. The wait time for your Interview is ?usually? 2-4 months. The Embassy will then send the beneficiary (Dominican born) a list of K1 Visa INSTRUCTIONS for your upcoming Interview (Cita). Follow them exactly. The instructions on the Embassy?s website are nearly identical to the instructions the beneficiary will receive by mail (inside Packet 4). 

 

*National Visa Center (NVC) Contact Info: 

http://travel.state....w/how_1463.html

 

**K1 Instructions

http://santodomingo....structions.html (MOST IMPORTANT!!!!)

Additionally, follow the steps here. Again, it's a lot but, it?s worth it! After your case is forwarded to the Consulate in Santo Domingo most people just wait ?unsure? of what?s going on. For you to get valid information just wait 1-2 weeks after receiving your NVC notice and call (toll-free) to the Visa Specialist (Department of State) in Washington D.C. (202-485-7600). Press Option 1 then Option 0 to speak to a visa specialist. (Do not waste your money calling the Consulate or the Mexico Hotline number). The Visa Specialist will tell you when your case was mailed to the beneficiary and when your interview (Cita) date is scheduled. 

 

*Cita Interview List 

http://santodomingo....pointments.html

Keep checking the Interview List (above) to see when your interview is scheduled. Make sure you have Adobe Reader so you can view them. Once you open the file just type in the Case # that was printed on your NVC notice. Ex: NVC Notice (SDO2013...) to find your Interview date. If your date is not listed keep checking to see when it updates with the following month?s appointments.

Your packet (Packet 4) will be mailed by the mail service in Dominican Republic (Inposdom). It may take forever (or it may never arrive at all). The mailing system in the Dominican Republic is ?very bad? and many people never receive their packets. The website below may be of some help. Remember there is no Packet 3, only Packet 4!

 

*Dominican Republic mailing system (Inposdom):

http://inposdom.gob.do/

 

 *FYI

Just an FYI for those that do not receive your packet 4 in the mail. Before you make the trip to the Embassy to get your packet 4 that they say was mailed but you never received (if you are not in a rush). Check with the local post office for your area. My fiancé went to the post office today and picked up his packet 4 that had been sitting there since Monday (was mailed from Embassy on 11/16). They said the city listed was not correct, even though our electricity bill gets delivered no problem with the same city listed as I did on the application. But it saved us a trip to the Embassy and having to wait until two weeks before our interview date. Just thought I would pass this information along and hope it helps someone else (From Reese1...THX)

 

*Waiting Period/Tracking you Case:

In the meantime (DURING the WAITING PERIOD), just keep calling the Visa Specialist, checking the Interview List, and CEAC. Since some people never receive their packets, you need to be proactive! This is huge problem for many Dominican residents who are in the visa process. You wait and wait and wait for something ?so important? to arrive and it may never come. Follow these steps and take care of your business.

#1Follow the K1 Instructions posted on the Embassy?s website

#2 Keep calling the Visa Specialist (National Visa Center and/or Department of State)

#3 Keep checking the Interview List

#4 Check/Track your Visa Case Status (CEAC), use the link below:

https://ceac.state.g...ker/Status.aspx

 

**Preparing for Interview:

Follow the K-1 Visa INSTRUCTIONS. Your Dominican born fiancé/fiancée (beneficiary) needs to begin completing the required forms (for specifics, check the Interview Checklist further down).

Since you have at least a couple of months (varies from 1-4 months) before your interview, you can practice filling out the required forms and finalize them later; they are available on VJ and USCIS). 

Note: All documents can be in either English or Spanish. Any other language must be translated into English.

 

*Obtaining Documents for Interview:

-Cedula: http://photos.state....genes_iv/3.html

-Read the information in the link below:

http://www.jce.gob.d...tranjería.aspx

 

-Birth Certificate: (legalized long/inextensa version): http://photos.state....genes_iv/4.html

-Tell your Dominican fiancée/fiancé to go to the nearest Junta Central Electoral to get the Birth Certificate. They will have to take their Cedula and $20US or pay in RD pesos. (prices may change over time) 

 

-Dominican Passport: http://photos.state....genes_iv/1.html

The Beneficiary will need a Dominican Passport for this process. Once their visa is approved, it will attached to the inside of the passport. Read the information in the link below:

http://www.dominican...po_tramites.asp

 

-Passport Photos Requirement: http://santodomingo....quirements.html

You will need a total of 5 passport pictures for the Visa Process. You will need 3 for the Medical Appointment and 2 for the Visa Interview. Always get a few extra just in case. Photos must be 2x2 in size. 

 

-DS-160: (online) https://ceac.state.g...IV/Default.aspx

This form is required in order to obtain your K1 Visa. It replaces the DS-230, DS-156, DS-156K and DS-157 forms. Make sure you print a copy (with barcode) for your records. More information is available below.

http://santodomingo....rant_visas.html

 

-DS-156k  http://www.state.gov...ation/82063.pdf

 This is to being completed if the K-1 Visa holder/Dominican resident is a MALE. 

 

-Police Certification:  (330 pesos RD) Get within 30 days of your interview.  http://photos.state....genes_iv/2.html

More information is available in the link below.

http://www.gob.do/Se...58-001d092f0b84

 

Note: My fiancée and I did all of these things while waiting. Try not to drive yourself crazy. Just use this time to prepare and maintain an ongoing relationship. In addition, gather all the evidence you will need for your interview (phone records, emails, pics, travel documents, receipts, etc). The last thing my fiancée and I did was update/finalize our forms. She got her police report (30 days before her interview date), reprinted visa forms, and I updated my income/employment documents. NOTE: We decided to type (PDF file) all of our information instead of handwriting, it makes things a lot easier to read. My fiancée went to a local notary and had them type in her information and print.

    I had everything done 1 month before the interview but had to get new letters (dates closer to the interview). Remember, some interviews are scheduled much faster than others so you may have less time. U.S. citizens need to bring all documents for the interview with them. If possible, you may need to meet your Dominican-born fiancé/fiancée 1-2 days before the interview to double-check everything before traveling to the Consulate. Hotel accommodations and links are posted below if you plan on staying in a hotel close (and reasonably priced) to the Consulate.

http://www.visajourn...y=Santo Domingo (bottom of the page)

    Finally, during the waiting period, you should also be ?practice-interviewing? each other. Sample interview questions are posted further down. Make sure you know enough about each other. Names of close family members, first date details, how you first met, birthdays, anniversaries, etc. It?s really important both of you have at least one common/fluent language that you communicate in. At the interview, they ask you which language you prefer to speak in (English or Spanish). Interview Experiences are also posted further down.

 

**The Medical Exam (Consultorios De Visa)

The beneficiary?s medical exam will be completed by Consultorios De Visa in Santo Domingo (a few miles from the Consulate). The Medical exam must be done at least 5 business days before your scheduled interview. A good time to go is between 14-10 days before your interview. You will need to take with you the following: Dominican passport, your Cedula (national ID), 3 passport pictures, and your Medical Appointment letter. My fiancée was there ALL DAY (7am-5pm). It?s crowded and very busy. Make sure you bring the exact amount in US dollars (prices vary by age/gender) so you avoid any problems. Although vaccinations are optional for K1 visa holders; it?s strongly recommended that you get your vaccinations too. For more information, check the links below.

 

*Medical Exam info:

http://santodomingo....vaccines-e.html Prices of Exam & Vaccinations

http://www.consultor...om/Consultorios De Visa official site (Includes videos)

 

*Financial Docs: (Affidavits) ? Agreement to be financially responsible for beneficiary.

FYI: Even if your relationship doesn?t work out, you are still financially responsible for the beneficiary if they continue to live legally in the US. This is a legal-binding document.

Once your NOA2 arrives, you need to complete the affidavit and get a letter from your current employer (stating you have a job with them and you make $$$ a year), also you need a letter from your bank (stating how much money you deposited in the past year), and also 3 months of your most recent pay stubs and last 3 years of tax returns. There are 2 affidavits (I-134 and I-864). The I-134 is very easy to complete and is usually needed for the K1 interview. The I-864 takes longer to complete and more evidence and its usually only needed for AOS but sometimes asked for during the K1 interview. For more information on the Affidavit of Support, see the link below:

http://www.visajourn...content/support

To be safe just do them both and prepare. When your fiancé(e) gets his/her Interview Packet, it will tell you what forms you need to bring to the interview. In my case the I-184 was not asked for; the good thing is it was already completed for the AOS process that comes along next. For now I would just complete them both and wait until 2 weeks before the interview date to get a letters from your employer and bank.

 

*K-2 Visas and/or Follow to Join (Bringing children along)

In order to bring the children of the beneficiary (Dominican citizen) to the U.S., you should have listed the children?s names (under 18yrs old) on the original I-129f form. You will need to pay additional passport, visa, medical, and travel fees for each child. You will need to indicate on the DS-160 form (online) which child/children will being coming to the U.S. with you. You will also need to obtain ?written permission? from the other legal parent/guardian of the children to bring them legally to the US. It is called ?Permiso de salida para menores" and it will cost $2000 pesos RD. More information is located under DNA section below.

 

*Follow-to-Join

Is when the child/children of the Dominican beneficiary do not leave together to enter the US. Henceforth, the name ?follow to join?. The child will have to fly with another adult or sometimes solo (depending on age) after the K1 Visa holder has arrived. This happens often, when the child may have to finish school or spend extra time with their other parent/family before leaving their native country. They will need to arrive in the US no more than 1 year after the arrival of the K1 visa holder.  Make sure that are legal forms are unexpired. Read the link below for more information. 

http://santodomingo....procedures.html

 

*DNA Testing

Sometimes a DNA Test is required to prove the father listed on the child?s birth certificate is ?really the real father?.  This is will definitely lengthen your Visa processing time. The wait time can be several extra months. The links are below.

http://santodomingo....atc-120206.html

http://santodomingo...._testing-e.html

FYI: If you are bringing a child that is not yours (biologically); make sure to have written/notarized permission from the biological parent. It is called "Permiso de salida para menores" and it will cost $2000 pesos RD. Read the links below for more details.

http://www.gob.do/Se...58-001d092f0b84

http://www.migracion...ervtarifas.html

 

*Banco Popular:

You are required to pay ?part? of you Visa Fee at Banco Popular. You will need to pay the Visa Application Fee = $175 USD ($160 + $15 service fee) ? 2 separate payments, 2 separate receipts. The Beneficiary will need to pay this at the nearest Banco Popular once you receive your Interview Date. You will need to take your Interview Letter with you that comes in Packet 4, along with your Cedula.

http://santodomingo....structions.html

Note: If you receive your Interview Date before you receive your Packet 4 and your Interview Date is approaching (2 weeks before interview), you need to call the Embassy and schedule a day to pick up a duplicate Packet 4. In order to knockout 2 birds with 1 stone, you need to plan wisely. When you go to pick up the duplicate Packet 4 from the Embassy, it is wise to go immediately to the Medical Office (Consultorios De Visa) and get your medical exam done. The medical cannot be done if you do not receive your Medical Appointment Letter that comes inside of Packet 4.

 

**The Interview

Interview Experiences: (PLEASE READ!!!)

http://www.visajourn...&cty=&dfilter=5

 

*Interview Questions: (Not Dom Rep. specific)

http://www.visajourn...ontent/exampleq

Note: If you are suspected of Visa Fraud, the questioning with be very, very personal and INTENSE! Dominican Republic is a High-Visa Fraud country, so be truthful! This is will lead to you Visa being DENIED!!!

 

*Contacting the Santo Domingo Visa Unit/Consulate

http://santodomingo....-contact-e.html

 

**Things to Know on Interview Day:

-The interview line gets crowded pretty fast. People arrive in line as early as 5am. Just be careful and make sure there are policia in sight.

-Both beneficiary and petitioner must be there! (Automatic denial if both are not there or OPEN Cita if you are lucky!) Open Cita means you are given a random date/time to appear. Since you were no ?originally? scheduled for this day; expect to wait.

-NO electronics are allowed! http://santodomingo....ed_items-e.html

- Interview Documents & Evidence can be carried in many different ways (I used plastic seal-able organized folder with labels for each section). Bottom line is BE ORGANIZED. Know where your documents are and have them ready.

-It's best to be prepared because they look for organization and how well you interact with your partner (who must be there).

-Beware of the buscones! They are not Embassy employees and they will rip you off. Ignore them!

-Ask the guard outside what line you need to be in. There are separate lines for each visa-type (IV and NIV). Men & women are separated when they enter the Embassy. You will go through metal detectors. IV= Immigrant Visa; NIV=Non-Immigrant Visa.

-You will receive a ticket but they are called in ?random order.? So your interview time is not really important. Just don?t arrive too late because your number could be called at anytime.

-Now how to ?sign your partner?s full name correctly?. Couples have been denied for this.

-There are cameras there (and I think they watch how you couples interact with each other) so be aware of that. You may be there anywhere from 3-6 hours.

-Despite the many fans and water fountains, it gets hot in there and a bit uncomfortable (especially the benches). There is a cafeteria where you can buy food and drinks which is good.

-Dress appropriately...Suits for a K1 Visa is probably not necessary and you will may be too hot. I?ve seen people who were very formal and some who look like they were going to a Club. Business-casual or Job-Interview-style is fine.

-Lastly, RELAX! If you?re a ?real? couple and you have your things in order you should be fine. Interviews usually last no more than 5 minutes. Unless you?re at WINDOWS 11 or 13 (Investigations for Fraud). If your case is sent to Administrative Processing, it may take from 6 months-2 years for approval.

-After you?re approved, pay your Domex fee and CELEBRATE! Felicidades!!!

 

 

**K-1 Visa Interview Checklist**

Beneficiary's Documents

- Birth Certificate Inextensa

- Police Certificate

- Passport

- Cedula (National ID Card)

- Medical Exam/Vaccination Results (may be there already, check before attending interview)

- Banco Popular receipts ($160-visa + $15 filing fee)

- Two 2x2 photos (with name printed on the back)

- Letter of Intent (dated and signed)

- DS-160 (online) (replaces previous DS forms) (print out confirmation page and barcode only) 

- Cita appointment letter/packet

- Any Marriage or Divorce Decrees from previous marriages.

- Permiso de salida para menores (for K2 visa) 

 

Petitioner?s Documents

- I-134- Affidavit of Support (financial responsibility) 

- Tax returns for (Last 3 years)

- Letter from Employer

- Recent pay stubs (last 3 months - 6 total)

- Bank account information

- Birth Certificate

- Passport

- Letter of Intent (dated and signed)

 

Other Documents

- Copy of I-129F packet sent

- Original and copy of NOA1

- Original and copy of NOA2

- Original and copy of NVC letter

 

Evidence

- Trip receipts (boarding passes, luggage airline stickers)

- Hotel/resort receipts, reservations

- Cell Phone bills

- Calling Cards

- Western Union/Money Gram receipts

- Internet Messenger service logs (AIM, Windows, SKYPE, BBM, etc)

-Social Media Messages (Facebook, etc)

- International phone bill (Vonage, Magic Jack, etc)

- Emails

- Printed out text messages

- Separate photo binder (with pics on a sheet put in plastic sheet protectors for easy removal)

- Last but not least - all of your prayers!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

*Expenses: (as of December 2013)

- Medical Exam = $180 USD

- Vaccines = $110 USD (optional, but highly recommended) Prices vary based on age/season of the year.

- Banco Popular Visa Application Fee = $175 USD ($160 + $15 service fee) ? 2 separate payments, 2 separate receipts

- Visa Fee paid day of interview at Consulate = $80 USD

- DOMEX Courier Service to approved Visa = $ 9.50 ? 11.00 USD (depending on delivery location) or ask to pick up from Consulate or Santiago.

- Travel & Hotel Expenses = Varies

-New Immigrant fee ($165) is only for Marriage Visas (CR1/IR1) not K1.

 

*Administrative Processing/Review  (Everyone?s Worst Fear, even after visa approval)

Why haven?t you received your Visa yet?  Sometimes when they say you are approved, you really aren?t. (I know, it sucks!!!) Unfortunately, you could be in Administrative Processing/Review. This means that your case has not been finalized yet, due to ?undisclosed reasons?. For example, the beneficiary?s name could be the same/similar to someone who has a history of visa fraud or criminal record.  They will have to do additional background checks. This could take anywhere from 60 days to 2 years. This is a very frustrating part of the process. There is really not much I can tell you but to contact the Consulate to see what the reasoning is. Some people have contacted their local Congressman/Congresswoman for help. This has been beneficial. This could move you case along much faster. Read the links below for more information.

http://santodomingo....processing.html

http://www.visajourn...processes-221g/

 

*Receiving Visa (DomEx)

After your Visa is approved (you will be given a Green ticket), you have to pay Domex (counter located inside of the Consulate) to deliver your Passport (w/ Visa inside) and Medical Results to you. You should receive your visa between 3-14 days (normally). If you pick it up from the Consulate or the Santiago office it?s faster than having them delivery it by courier.  To track your Visa you can use Domex?s website: (make sure you know your tracking #). Inside of your package from Domex, there will be your Passport (w/Visa inside), Medical Results (DS-3025 w/CD of X-ray results), and a manila envelope (w/open slit on one corner) and an Instruction sheet (read it carefully). Do not open the manila envelope, it will need to be taken with you to the airport for Customs. Everything will need to be taken with the beneficiary when they travel to the U.S.

http://www.domex.do/

 

*Purchasing Flights:

Also, NEVER purchase airline tickets for your partner until they have the VISA IN HAND. Once they receive their K-1 Visa from Domex make sure they understand the requirements. They can only use it once to enter the U.S.; and they have 6 months to use it. There will be an expiration date on it. Accompanied with the K-1 Visa is a sealed packet that must not be opened. It will be brought with them to the U.S. and given to the Customs agent once they arrive in the U.S.

Many beneficiaries have to travel to the States alone (unless accompanied with a child) and you meet them at POE. They should be fine going through Customs; just make sure they understand the LAW (you have to get married within 90 days of entering the U.S. then adjust status.) Let your partner know to ?tell Custom?s agent? they are ?entering on a K-1 Visa.? Complete the I-94 electronically (no longer on paper), they will need this later for their Social Security card, Driver?s License, and AOS.

http://cbp.gov/xp/cg...4_instructions/

Note: For CR1 Visa Holders, it will be beneficial to wait until to you have been married for exactly 2 years or more before entering the US. When you enter after the 2 year anniversary, you will automatically receive a 10yr Green Card. If not, you will receive a 2yr Green Card and will have to go through the Removal of Conditions Process.  

 

*Point of Entry (POE) Reviews:

http://www.visajourn...ews.php?stats=1

After you are arm-&-arm with your loved one (you better be after all these months of waiting), relax and enjoy each other. Read up on how to obtain your partner?s Social Security Card and begin planning your marriage/wedding. Read up on State laws for Marriage Licenses. After you are legally married within 90 days, you can immediately file for Adjustment of Status (AOS).

Note: K-1ers cannot legally work, go to school, or travel outside the U.S. until they receive legal documents (Work Authorization Card, Travel Documents and/or Green Card) through the Adjustment of Status process.

 

*What to Bring to the U.S.: These documents will be needed in America if you plan to enter any type of educational program or gain employment.

-High School Transcript and/or copy of Degree (official)

-College Transcript and/or copy of Degree (official)

-Extra Birth Certificate (legalized & inextensa) & accompanying children

-Divorce Document/Decree 

 

*How K1ers Get a Social Security Card:

This can be troublesome for some. Make sure you follow the link below. Around 7-10 days after arriving in the U.S. the K1ers status should be stored in the system. If you go too early, the Social Security office may not have your records. Since you are not married yet, your fiancée will have to get their Social Security card in their birth name. They can change it only after they get married and you have your marriage certificate. Make sure they bring the following documents (K1 Visa, passport, I-94 #, 2 proofs of address, SS-5 form).

http://www.visajourney.com/content/ssn 

 

*Adjusting to Life in the U.S.:

Every couple is different, every experience is different. You can read my experience in the thread below: (Thx Corina)

http://www.visajourn...s/#entry6353428

 

NEXT STOP ON YOUR JOURNEY: Apply for Marriage License...Marriage?Adjustment of Status (AOS) -> -> -> (send me a PM for this guide)

 

*Looking Ahead: (Things you must do after move to the U.S.)

-Adjustment of Status -> Allows K1 visa holders to become a 2yr Permanent Resident/Green Card Holder (can live, work, and study legally) (travel restrictions-you may need a visa to travel to specific countries) K2 (child) visa don?t go through AOS. The AOS Process has no time limit, but the sooner you apply after marriage the faster you can work, study and travel without restrictions.

Estimated Costs:  $1,070                                Estimated Time: 3-6 months

-Removal of Conditions -> Allows K1/CR1 visa holders to become a 10yr Permanent Resident/Green Card Holder (travel restrictions-you may need a visa to travel to specific countries) K2 (child) visa will need to Remove Conditions.

Estimated Costs:   $595                               Estimated Time:  7-9 months

-Naturalization -> Allows you to become a US Citizen after 3 years of marriage with your U.S. Citizen spouse. (Gives you all the benefits of a Natural-born citizen: voting, traveling, etc) 

Estimated Costs:   $680                                Estimated Time: 3-5 months

 

Have a Great Journey!

MrTee12

 

 


MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2013-12-17 00:53:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

for the vita medica , it says that  I should go 8 days before my interview.

Mine interview is on jan 23th. Can I go the 10th? or is to early

 

That should be fine. 


MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2013-12-11 18:34:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

 So how to do we get an inextensa?  Are there instructions somewhere? The embassy website doesn't give instructions; the website only says we need it.  We had our visa interview Thursday. (I am going to post a review of it)  They told us everything was approved but that we need to get an original birth certificate.  My girlfriend is from the Dominican Republic.  She had a Dominican lawyer help us out.  We paid him twice now and both times he has given us the abstract birth certificate and says we don't need anything else.  Arrrgghhh. Frustrating.  No visa yet.  The only thing stopping us now is inextensa.
 
  


She has to go the junta central electoral say that she wants an inextensa birth certificade and legalize it cost around 800 pesos dominicanos (25 dollars) good luck...

sind27FemaleDominican Republic2013-12-04 17:51:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

for the vita medica , it says that  I should go 8 days before my interview.

Mine interview is on jan 23th. Can I go the 10th? or is to early


lala78MaleDominican Republic2013-12-11 16:03:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

is this post updated with the new fees prices ? 

 

Yes, but not in this thread. I post all updates on the Wiki Page.

 

http://www.visajourn...eiving_the_NOA2

 

Here are the prices

 

 

- Medical Exam = $180 USD

- Vaccines = $110 USD (optional, but highly recommended) Prices vary based on age/season of the year.

- Banco Popular Visa Application Fee = $160 USD -take receipt to interview (there is no longer a seperate $15 service fee)

- Visa Fee paid day of interview at Consulate = $105 USD (latest fee increase)

- DOMEX Courier Service to approved Visa = $ 11.00 USD (depending on delivery location) or ask to pick up from Consulate or Santiago.

- Travel & Hotel Expenses = Varies

-New Immigrant fee ($165) is only for Marriage Visas (CR1/IR1) not K1.


MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2014-09-27 16:41:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

Thanks Mr.Tee that's what I thought. 
 
This also needs to be brought to consulate the day of interview, correct? 


Yea. Make a copy of it as a backup.

MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2014-01-30 17:43:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

One question regarding the Medical Exam:
 
What sheet exactly is the "medical appointment letter"?  
 
My fiance's packet 4 never arrived here in the DR, but arrived at my U.S. residence.  I work seasonally here in the DR, so I had the originals brought down by a friend... Is the "medical appt letter" the same as page one of packet 4, the blue interview letter?
 
Thanks for any help and good luck to all as well.  





Yes. The Blue paper is the Medical Appointment Letter and it needs to be taken to the medical exam office in order to have your medical done.
MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2014-01-30 14:42:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

FYI:

 

I just created a Wiki Page for this Thread. All updates for this thread will be made in Visa Journey's Wiki section.

 

The link to the NOA2 thread is below:

http://www.visajourn...eiving_the_NOA2

 

Questions can still be posted in this thread for now. 


MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2013-12-31 15:45:00
CaribbeanTuberculosis Screening and Applying for a Visa - SDO
Tuberculosis and the K-1 Visa ? Santo Domingo/Dominican Republic Embassy
 
Embassy specific but appears to apply to most Embassies as far as the process is concerned.
 
I've been asked about this and chimed in on a few times on other posts; so I decided to do a write up to share what I have learned so far.
 
When we first found out during the medical exam that my Fiance would be sent for TB Screening it was like our whole world crashed... I couldn't speak, words didn't make sense, I couldn't breathe... I felt like I was about to pass out... between his possible illness and what that meant for his health, was I exposed?? Had I exposed or infected my friends and loved ones??My Co-Workers?? My head was Spinning!! We didn't know what this meant for our upcoming interview and wondering what happens to our visa, we were distraught to say the least. We thought everything we worked and waited for was done. And worse I was too far away and have financial responsibilities here that I cannot easily abandon to go to him and care for and support him like I desperately wanted to... It was horrible.
 
But I am a nerd... and I don't take many things lying down... so I stood myself up (literally.. I was crouched down holding myself from getting to my knees in a parking lot, praying during a rainstorm) and took a deep breathe and put one foot in front of the other, grabbed my cell and started calling anyone who knew anything! 
 
The answers were so spread out and no one could tell me clearly, what happens to our Visa! It took a lot of time, research, interrogating medical folks to gather and compile this information, at first so that we could get a grasp on what was happening and what our options are...  and now to share what I've learned and we've experienced so far with anyone reading this; in the hopes that will make their process a bit easier and so they too can to be pretty well informed , hopefully in advance.
 
 
So here it goes....
 
 
 
If during the Medical Exam if the Doctor discover spots on the X-Ray or suspects the presence of TB Symptoms the Patient will be sent for Tuberculosis Screening. 
 
First... Don't Panic!! 
Many things can show up on the x-ray that can appear like TB but is NOT Tuberculosis. Many people each year are tested and found to be TB Negative when the results come back. Histoplasmosis (illness caused by breathing in a fungus found in dried/airborne chicken/bat feces), Smoking, a strong/long Flu or even pneumonia can scar the lungs.  :D
 
 
Testing does not interfere with the Visa Interview. You will go to the Visa Interview as scheduled.   :dance:
The Embassy does not know the Beneficiary is being tested for Tuberculosis, they only know they are missing the Medical Exam results and place your Case Status as "Administrative Processing" after the interview until they have the exam results.
 
 
If your loved one was not experiencing any symptoms he/she is most likely fine.
 
The most common symptoms of TB are:
 
Coughing for more than three weeks: Coughing up blood in phlegm/mucus
Weight loss: Slow at first, getting quicker as TB develops
Loss of appetite
High temperature or fever
Night sweats
Extreme tiredness or lack of energy
 
 
How is TB Spread?
When someone with active TB disease in the lungs or throat coughs, sings, sneezes or even speaks, TB bacteria can be released into the air. TB bacteria can stay in the air for hours. You can get TB either latent TB infection or active TB disease by breathing in TB bacteria that someone who is sick with TB disease has coughed into the air.
 
You cannot get TB by sharing food, shaking hands, using the same toilet, sleeping on the same bedding, kissing, sharing food or drinking after someone.
  • You need to spend many hours close to a person with infectious TB to breathe in enough bacteria to be at risk.
  • Most people's immune systems are strong enough to kill off TB bacteria when exposed.
 
 
 
The TB Screening takes three days to complete and the Beneficiary must go early in the morning without brushing their teeth, chewing gum, smoking, eating or drinking anything before the samples are taken. 
 
There are two samples taken at each test - A Buccal Swab (mouth swab) and a Sputum Culture (coughing with force) .
 
On the Third day of testing they can tell the Beneficiary (and/or you) if the first two mouth swabs are positive or negative. 
This tells you if the bacteria count is high enough in the lungs that it is leaving the body via the breath. This Buccal Swab can test Negative and yet the patient can still test Positive for TB bacteria in the lungs. This test just lets you know how "Contagious" the patient is or is not. If the mouth swab is negative, they will not easily pass the bacteria to others (everybody can now breathe a sigh of relief). 
 
The Sputum Culture results take up to 9 weeks from the last test day to come back. The longer the beneficiary waits to receive the call; the less likely the results will come back as Positive for Tuberculosis but it can still happen.
 
If the Consultorio de Visa calls anytime before the 9th week, it will most likely be to inform you that the test results are Positive for Tuberculosis. It really takes about 8 weeks to fully clear the Sputum Culture as TB Negative and the last week is to receive, process the results and call the patient... So the longer you don't hear anything the better the chances are of being cleared... after week 7-8 you can most likely relax. 
 
 
If after the 9 weeks, the Sputum results are Negative for TB bacteria, the Beneficiaries Medical Exam results will be sent to the Embassy to continue processing normally.
:joy: Time to Celebrate!!!   :joy:  
 
 
[We got our call a few days before week 6. Even though he was TB Negative for his Buccal Swab, he ended up being TB Positive in his lungs but blessedly with a very low bacteria count; meaning we caught it early and he was not contagious.]
 
 
 
If the beneficiary is TB positive DO NOT PANIC!!!! 
 
It can be Active or Latent (Activo o Latente) the Consultorio will know this when they call the Beneficiary with the results. 
It is VERY IMPORTANT right then to ASK the person calling with the results which type the beneficiary has. It is hard to get them on the phone again!
 
 
LATENT TB
 
Latent TB is not contagious. If the Beneficiary's TB is Positive but "Latent" they most likely will be allowed to travel to the USA with the Visa normally but the Heath Dept. in the USA will also most likely require them to get a nine month treatment when they are stateside as the US takes Tuberculosis VERY serious because Latent TB can become Active TB at any time.
 
 
ACTIVE TB
 
If the Beneficiary's TB is Active they will not be allowed to travel or finish processing the Visa Application until the Beneficiary has completed treatment and been retested. This will result in an additional delay of up to 8-9 months.  (Now you can kinda freak out, it sucks I know.... but breathe and keep going it ain't over...)
This timeframe includes at least 6 months of Antibiotic treatment and at least Three Retests done at the Consultorio de Visa (see below).
 
The Beneficiary's Passport will be flagged; stopping them from traveling out of the country and most likely the Petitioner's (if considered "Actively Exposed") will probably be contacted by the Consultorio de Visa and possibly their local Health Dept in the USA. So if you think you can be considered "Actively Exposed" be proactive and call them first! Save yourself the headache. You will have to be tested as well if you have been spent extended amounts of time with the beneficiary/patient prior to diagnosis. Usually it takes more than a few days to be considered "exposed" depending upon how high the patient's buccal swab and/or bacteria count is.
 
If the Petitioner has to be tested you may have to be tested twice about 56 days apart as TB is slow growing. It depends on how long ago you saw the patient last and how much time you spent with them.
 
 
Course of Treatment Explained:
 
Phase One ~ 48 Doses Daily Monday thru Friday of Four (4) types of antibiotics,
then at next dose - immediately begin 
Phase Two ~ 50 doses every other day M,W,F of Two (2) types antibiotics but more pills.
 
First Retest after One (1) month of antibiotics ~ 2 consecutive mornings
 
Second Retest after Two (2) Months of antibiotics ~ 2 consecutive mornings
These two later test are to determine how well the antibiotics are working to kill the bacteria OR if not working; this helps determine whether the patient has Medically Resistant (MDR-TB) or Extremely Medically Resistant strains (XDR-TB)
 
Third Retest (and hopefully final. if the meds are working) is given after the 50th dose of Phase Two is administered and signed off on by the hospital administering the drugs.
 
Wait the Nine (8-9) weeks for last test results to arrive at the Consultorio de Visa and get them shipped to the Embassy.
 
At Embassy it takes anywhere from 2-6 weeks for the Embassy to process and issue the Visa.
 
(All of the sudden those 8 month long AP cases in some countries starts to makes magical sense, Huh??)
 
 
 
 
But WAIT Enigma!!! This SUCKS!! Aren't there any loopholes??  Any way around this?? 
 
 
YES!! There are!!  but the US Government is smarter than that!
 
The1st Loophole says - Three Negative Sputum Tests and you can apply for a waiver to finish treatment in the USA.
 
The Truth - The Embassy ONLY ACCEPTS test results from the Consultorio de Visa and the CDV ONLY ALLOWS the third test AFTER treatment is finished NO EXCEPTIONS! (Yes I tried! Especially hard because my Fiance tested TB Negative at his first month retest! It really didn't seem fair then!)
 
The 2nd Loophole says - If your petition is DENIED you can apply for the waiver to bring the Beneficiary for treatment.
The Truth: - This is why the Embassy places your case into "Administrative Processing" rather than deny you.... This way you CANNOT apply for the waiver. (I know I tried! See above.) 
 
The only way to apply for the Waiver is to have your petition officially denied. (I believe it is a 601 Waiver but feel free to correct me.)
 
 
 
But once my Fiance or I am treated we're safe right? :huh: 
 
Wrong. :( 
 
Many people in the Dom. Rep. are told that once you are exposed to TB and receive treatment that you will not ever get it again. This is simply NOT TRUE!! 
It saddens me to say in real life it can come back...The patient is only "protected" when they are actually on the medication. I don't know why people in the DR are not honest with patients and family!!
 
My understanding is the especially in the first two years after treatment has stopped they are MORE susceptible to reinfection not less. TB can and does recur if the patient is not careful. I even learned in my research and questioning TB Specialists of a smoker with TB who quit smoking during treatment but started back smoking again 5 years after treatment who got sick again with TB here in the USA!    :wow:         :bonk:  
 
 
Dom Rep has a crisis of TB and are behind in TB research, knowledge, dissemination of information and definitely in the methods of testing, detection and worst of all in treatment.   :angry:  
 
 
The World Health Organization believes the DR to be ranked highest in all of the Americas based on known and suspected number of cases of TB per population and are slow and also behind in response, screening, treatment and eradication of the disease. Because the Gov't there only tests/screens and releases data for certain areas of the country...  <_< que pena!
 
You can see the status here:
 
 
 
 
* * * * * Taking all of the medication as prescribed is critical to recovery and especially important in the DR because of the secondary types called Medically Resistant TB and Extremely Medically Resistant TB (MDR-TB and XDR-TB).   That's a whole nother topic!
 
 
 
 
The Good News!!!
 
There have been several Medical Trials that show that 10,000 IU of Vitamin D daily will speed up the time-to-cure when combined with antibiotics!
 

If suspected of TB or exposure please tell your Fiance (and yourself?) to start RIGHT NOW getting 10,000 IU's of Vitamin D EVERYDAY until the results come back!!! Research shows that daily doses of 10,000 IU's of Vitamin D has sped up the cure time from 36-39 days to a quick 23 days!!! Hopefully giving you a Negative First Month Retest!! If the bacteria count is not too high at the beginning of treatment.

 

And even a study in India showed that 10,000 IU's of Vitamin D daily completely cured TB in 9 months without ANY Antibiotics!!

 

 

 

It worked for us!!! 

 After I found the studies; my Fiance started immediately starting getting 30 mins to 1 hour of Sun a day  B-) and taking Vitamin D3 supplements about 1 week before his first test results came back TB Positive in the lungs. When we got his results his beginning Bacteria count was already low because we caught it early but by the time my Fiance had his first test after JUST 1 month of meds.... the TB was gone!! He tested negative!!!   :dance:

:innocent: Gracias a Dios por este información abajo!!  :innocent: 

 

:unsure: Okay so, he still has to finish his treatment and we still have to wait the 8 months  :clock: but it's gone!! He's recovering wonderfully!  :yes: 

  

 

 

:idea: Here's the research:  :idea: 

 

Study on Vitamin D and D3 for TB patients.

http://articles.merc...hout-drugs.aspx

 

Vitamin D scientifically shown to treat tuberculosis and significantly speed recovery time

http://www.naturalne...very_time.html#

 

Another story supporting the use and that it helps speed up cure.

http://www.thetrutha...nly-way-cure-tb

 

 

 

Ways to speed up recovery time using a combination of options below:

In order Vitamin D benefit

 

Cod Liver oil (you'll need 100 grams to equal 10000 IU daily)  I think you can take half the amount with 45 mins to 1 hour of Sun to equal that.

30 mins to 1 hour of mid-morning or mid-afternoon sun is nearly the equal to 5000 IU (depending upon skin type - darker skin produces less)

Fish Oil

Vitamin D3 pills

 

Extra Virgin Cold Pressed Olive Oil (for adding to meals, rice, salads, etc. and for cooking at a lower temp, NOT for frying or sauteing)

 

Avocado Lots of it!

 

Multi-Vitamins help the immune system and body overall

High Calorie Protein shakes like Ensure - In addition to meals helps builds the body back to a healthy weight to help it fight.

B-Vitamin Supplements - helps with energy and general vitamin absorption.

 

 

 

List of foods with HIGH Vitamin D Content for the patient to eat:

 

http://www.healthali...min-D-foods.php  
 

Edited by Enigma23, 05 April 2014 - 05:16 PM.

Enigma23FemaleDominican Republic2014-04-05 17:10:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

Thanks Mr.Tee that's what I thought. 

 

This also needs to be brought to consulate the day of interview, correct? 


sjcashoreNot TellingDominican Republic2014-01-30 15:50:00
CaribbeanWhat to Do after receiving your NOA2

One question regarding the Medical Exam:

 

What sheet exactly is the "medical appointment letter"?  

 

My fiance's packet 4 never arrived here in the DR, but arrived at my U.S. residence.  I work seasonally here in the DR, so I had the originals brought down by a friend... Is the "medical appt letter" the same as page one of packet 4, the blue interview letter?

 

Thanks for any help and good luck to all as well.  


sjcashoreNot TellingDominican Republic2014-01-30 14:34:00
CaribbeanTuberculosis Screening and Applying for a Visa - SDO

Comments transferred from original posting:

 

 

Posted 03 April 2014 - 07:24 PM

Ilovemyman

Ecellent post :).

 

 

 
Enigma23

Thank you! :D

 

The first few moments after we found out he had to go for TB testing... it was like a slow train wreck... trying to understand and grasp it all... and how if effects us overall. The information is so spread out and isn't specific to the Visa Process. And honestly many people still treat it like a very "taboo" topic... but I felt like after all this time and research and our good outcome so far.... I just had to share what I have learned in hopes that our story may help relieve others fears and offer some help... that brings me some peace while we wait... :yes:

 

 


Kathryn41FemaleCanada2014-04-06 23:28:00
CaribbeanTuberculosis Screening and Applying for a Visa - SDO

Wow!!! Great source of info. I may need to and a link of this to the NOA2 Wiki Page (Dom Rep). Thx.


MrTee12MaleDominican Republic2014-04-06 06:55:00