ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ

I have a question do i need new letter of intent?the thing is he mailed me all documents and ill have them 2 days before interview.Interview is on 17th so its late he sends me by dhl again.or is it ok if i just shoe email?


I emailed the letter of intent and it was fine.



did you email your fiancee or to the embassy?
KotenochekFemaleRussia2007-08-12 13:44:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ

Great page!



thanks for the info i wish i had found it earlier!
I have a question do i need new letter of intent?the thing is he mailed me all documents and ill have them 2 days before interview.Interview is on 17th so its late he sends me by dhl again.or is it ok if i just shoe email?
KotenochekFemaleRussia2007-08-12 10:27:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
QUOTE (Tars @ May 12 2008, 04:29 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Ok, group. It is my turn to ask for advice/help again. I, too have "experts" that are telling me things (by experts, I refer to Russian women friends that are in my hometown). The I-134 "Affidavit of Support" clearly states that tax records are only needed if you are self employed. I did not send tax records to my fiance'e because I am employed. I sent four months worth of pay stubs, a copy of my W-2, a letter from my employer, a letter from my bank, and current copies of my IRA account.

I'm being reamed right now from the "experts" because I didn't send my 1040. Should I send the 1040?

Any input would be helpful.



IMHO (and having previous successful experience with the Moscow Embassy), you have provided more than adequate documentation of your income and employment. If I were you, I wouldn't worry about this at all.

JMO....... smile.gif
Don EMaleRussia2008-05-13 09:22:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
Your fiancee should request the police certificate immediately. Depending on where she lives (and has lived), it could possibly take a couple of months to get the police certificate (of course, it might also take a week or less). The police certificate is valid (for the U.S. Embassy's purpose) for one year from the date of issuance.

As far as requesting that the interview date be moved up, I can't possibly imagine that it would hurt anything to ask. The worst thing that could happen would be they would say no. While they have no problem rescheduling to a later date, you're going to have to give them a good reason in order to get your interview date rescheduled to an earlier date. It doesn't have to be life or death, but it must be something they would consider valid. As an example, when my ex-wife had her interview, we were able to get her date moved up a couple of weeks. The primary reason that we asked them to consider the earlier interview date was the start of school for her son. By moving her interview date just a couple of weeks earlier than it was initially scheduled, he could get here in time to enroll in school and start at the beginning of the semester with all of his classmates. In that case, the Consulate granted our request.
Don EMaleRussia2008-04-24 20:45:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
QUOTE (Blues Fairy @ Feb 21 2008, 04:10 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Here's what I did in the same situation. I went to the children's clinic in my home town to which my school was attached, and asked if they could help me recreate my vaccinations history. The head of the clinic turned out to be a very understanding and cooperative lady and she quickly filled out a typical vacc. report for me, in English! Immunization shots were uniformly administered to all school kids back then, so she just wrote down a typical vaccinations history for a person my age, with years and all. And since I did not have rubella shots (they were not given before 2001), she had a nurse give it to me on the spot, for free!


Thanks for sharing this! I believe that Tania will try to do something similar.
Don EMaleRussia2008-02-22 19:21:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
Here's what I did in the same situation. I went to the children's clinic in my home town to which my school was attached, and asked if they could help me recreate my vaccinations history. The head of the clinic turned out to be a very understanding and cooperative lady and she quickly filled out a typical vacc. report for me, in English! Immunization shots were uniformly administered to all school kids back then, so she just wrote down a typical vaccinations history for a person my age, with years and all. And since I did not have rubella shots (they were not given before 2001), she had a nurse give it to me on the spot, for free!

Thanks for the sharing this! I believe that Tania will try to do something similar.
Don EMaleRussia2008-02-22 19:13:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
Here's my map info etc. for the pinned post...

Important Locations In Moscow

Includes:
  • Detailed maps of Moscow
  • Google Earth KMZ for Moscow
  • Link for Medical Info
  • DHL Locations
  • Airport Maps
  • Moscow Metro Maps

Enjoy!
David
dmhwebMaleRussia2007-07-29 21:22:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
QUOTE (aspettando @ Feb 19 2008, 11:25 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
1. My girl [Masha] has lost her vaccinations records (organized she is not...). Will she have to get all the shots again?

2. She has a history of health problems and she is afraid to get new shots. I know these are not required for the K-1 visa, but they are for the AOS. Is there a way for USCIS to forgive the shots?


Here's what I did in the same situation. I went to the children's clinic in my home town to which my school was attached, and asked if they could help me recreate my vaccinations history. The head of the clinic turned out to be a very understanding and cooperative lady and she quickly filled out a typical vacc. report for me, in English! Immunization shots were uniformly administered to all school kids back then, so she just wrote down a typical vaccinations history for a person my age, with years and all. And since I did not have rubella shots (they were not given before 2001), she had a nurse give it to me on the spot, for free!
Blues FairyFemaleRussia2008-02-21 15:10:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
Here is an updated link for the k-1 appointment schedule: http://moscow.usemba...ar/iv_dates.php
MilenkaFemaleRussia2007-08-13 08:49:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
QUOTE (Blues Fairy @ Feb 21 2008, 04:10 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (aspettando @ Feb 19 2008, 11:25 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
1. My girl [Masha] has lost her vaccinations records (organized she is not...). Will she have to get all the shots again?

2. She has a history of health problems and she is afraid to get new shots. I know these are not required for the K-1 visa, but they are for the AOS. Is there a way for USCIS to forgive the shots?


Here's what I did in the same situation. I went to the children's clinic in my home town to which my school was attached, and asked if they could help me recreate my vaccinations history. The head of the clinic turned out to be a very understanding and cooperative lady and she quickly filled out a typical vacc. report for me, in English! Immunization shots were uniformly administered to all school kids back then, so she just wrote down a typical vaccinations history for a person my age, with years and all. And since I did not have rubella shots (they were not given before 2001), she had a nurse give it to me on the spot, for free!


Thank you so much for this tip! We'll definitely look into this smile.gif))
ankaFemaleRussia2008-03-21 10:06:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
Where do you get the information that a new Letter of Intent to Marry addressed to the Moscow Embassy is required? Below is the text of the required interview documents copied directly from the Moscow Embassy website. I see no mention of this requirement.

http://www.usembassy...cord_id=fiancee

List of Documents for Fiancé (e) Visa Interview
  1. Biographical Form DS-230 filled out in English (part 1 and part 2). A separate form must be filled out for immigrating child over 16 years of age.
  2. Completed Electronic Visa Application Form DS-156. ( The Electronic Visa Application Form must be filled out online at http://evisaforms.state.gov. After filling out the form online, print a copy of the visa application form. The Electronic Visa Application Form is not available in the Russian language. Answers to the questions on the application must be in English and must use English characters. The applicants are welcome to use the Russian language translation to guide them through the online English Electronic Visa Application Form). A separate Electronic Visa Application Form DS-156 must be filled out for immigrating child.
  3. Supplement DS-156K form. The form must be filled out in Russian. DO NOT SIGN DS-156K. No DS-156K supplement is required for immigrating child.
  4. International Passport with a photocopy of the first page and the page with information about immigrating child if the child's name in included in the parent's passport.
  5. Original birth certificate, photocopy and translation into English.
  6. Police certificates in all names as well as all dates of birth ever used. Police certificate must contain references to each place (subject to the jurisdiction of the Russian Federation) in which the applicant lives or has lived for more than six months since attaining the age of 16. This includes localities where applicants have lived during university studies. If the applicant was on military service, he/she should bring the certificate from the local draft board. If an applicant has lived abroad for more than one year, a police certificate must also be submitted from the country in which he/she lived. Police certificate validity is one year since the date of issuance.
  7. Evidence of termination of prior marriage(s) (if applicable), original, photocopy and translation into English.
  8. One color non-glossy full-face photo 50x50 mm for visa. The eye level should be between 28mm and 35mm from the bottom. Another two pictures will be required for medical examination.
  9. Visa application fee of $100 for each applicant (Beginning January 1, 2008 the fee will change from 100USD to 131USD) for each applicant
  10. Documents confirming relationship: photos of Petitioner and Beneficiary together, letters to each other, phone bills, airplane tickets, emails, etc.
  11. Results of Medical Examination in a sealed envelope. The medical must be taken at one of the embassy-designated medical centers. It takes 2 days to complete the medical examination.
  12. Financial documents from the petitioner – a US citizen: please note, that Affidavit of Support (form I-134) is not required, but may be requested. The document must be notarized. Please submit financial documents to show that the applicant will not become a public charge in the United States. Such documents may include, but are not limited to:
- Most recent year tax returns (form 1040) or tax transcripts from IRS
- Copy of bank account
- Earnings and leave statement
- W-2 forms
- Letter from employer

If an applicant is required to provide additional documentation after the interview with an American consular officer has taken place, the documentation may be submitted to the 221G box at the Embassy North Gate between 2.00PM and 4.00PM on any working day or mailed to the Embassy.
Buck and NataliaMaleRussia2008-01-28 18:36:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
The two links provided earlier for finding out date of interview from the USEM do not work.

Here is what I just found when at the USEM website: http://moscow.usemba...v/ivinterv.html

On-Line Appointment Information

The Consular Section is pleased to announce the availability of online information regarding scheduled immigrant visa appointments.

Please note that in order to use this system, you must know the case number of your immigrant visa application. This number was provided to you when your petition was approved (i.e, MOS2002123456, SRC-12-345-67890). You can not use this system if your petition has not yet been approved. Please note that it takes USCIS and the National Visa Center several weeks to formally notify the Consular Section that a petition has been approved.

Appointment schedules are updated weekly at 8:00 a.m. Monday, Moscow time.

All immigrant visa appointments begin at 8:00 a.m. Applicants should arrive at the Embassy's Novinskiy Bulvar gate at 7:40 a.m. (You must already know your case number)

Click here for visas CR1/2, IR1/2/5, E1/2/3/4, F, K1/2/3/4 and V1/2/3

Important: Use your browser's search function to find your case number.
bobbMaleRussia2009-04-15 00:32:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
QUOTE (aspettando @ May 12 2008, 06:03 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Tars @ May 12 2008, 02:29 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Ok, group. It is my turn to ask for advice/help again. I, too have "experts" that are telling me things (by experts, I refer to Russian women friends that are in my hometown). The I-134 "Affidavit of Support" clearly states that tax records are only needed if you are self employed. I did not send tax records to my fiance'e because I am employed. I sent four months worth of pay stubs, a copy of my W-2, a letter from my employer, a letter from my bank, and current copies of my IRA account.

I'm being reamed right now from the "experts" because I didn't send my 1040. Should I send the 1040?

Any input would be helpful.



I am sending to Masha all of the above including the 06 and 07 tax records. I don't want any surprises. Your interview date is 6/30 so you have time. Why taking a chance? You could scan them and send them to her by email...

This is what I would do.... Best luck to you good.gif



Thanks for the input aspettando.

Tars
TarsMaleRussia2008-05-13 08:11:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
Ok, group. It is my turn to ask for advice/help again. I, too have "experts" that are telling me things (by experts, I refer to Russian women friends that are in my hometown). The I-134 "Affidavit of Support" clearly states that tax records are only needed if you are self employed. I did not send tax records to my fiance'e because I am employed. I sent four months worth of pay stubs, a copy of my W-2, a letter from my employer, a letter from my bank, and current copies of my IRA account.

I'm being reamed right now from the "experts" because I didn't send my 1040. Should I send the 1040?

Any input would be helpful.

Edited by Tars, 12 May 2008 - 04:30 PM.

TarsMaleRussia2008-05-12 16:29:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
Oh, by the way. It was a misunderstanding on my part about the types of passports that Russians have. It was translated to me and I think some of the meaning was lost in the translation. My Natasha has an international passport besides the one she uses internally to travel within Russia.

Does anyone know if she should get her police record now, or wait until we have the interview scheduled?

Tars
TarsMaleRussia2008-04-24 18:10:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
Hello, group. I normally don't post here but I thought this would be interesting to some of you.

I sent an anonymous email to the US Embassy in Moscow. Here is the question I asked: "I was told that I could call the US Embassy in Moscow and see if there were any visa appointments that may have been canceled so that possibly my appointment could be moved up into that time slot. This information was told to me by a reliable friend. However, other people have told me that if I ask this question of you that it would actually delay my appointment even more.

I do not wish to impose any hardship on the personnel there. I just would like to know if my appointment could be moved up if there happens to be a cancellation.

Thank you for your attention to this question."


Now, I don't know if the embassy there is staffed by Russians or by Americans, but the answer I received back (if you can call it an answer) was of no help at all. Here is the reply I received:

"To consider this option, we need to know the applicant's full name, DOB, the case number and the reason of rescheduling

Sincerely,
Public Liaison Unit
Consular Section
US Embassy, Moscow"

Has any of you had any success in rescheduling? Or do you think it futile (and possibly destructive) for me to ask?

Tars

Edited by Tars, 24 April 2008 - 06:07 PM.

TarsMaleRussia2008-04-24 18:03:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
QUOTE (Kazan @ Apr 12 2008, 01:51 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
The DOS would only be interested in her International Passport information. That is what they want.



Thanks for answering so quickly, Jeffery. So then I must ask: Natasha does not yet have an international passport. Must she get one before filing out the DS-156, or should she just write "None" in the spaces on the form?
TarsMaleRussia2008-04-12 16:47:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
I need help on a small item. Hopefully someone out there knows the answer.

My fiance'e must fill out the DS-156, "Electronic Visa Application Form". The first question asks for the passort number, place it was issued, expiration date, etc. It seems in Russia they have two internal passports issued to each citizen- a passport that allows them to travel between cities, and a passport that allows them to travel further distances within Russia. I know that my fiance'e will also need an international passport in order to come to the US.

So my question is this: Which passport information are they asking for on the DS-156?

I'd appreciate any input. Thanks in advance.
TarsMaleRussia2008-04-12 15:32:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
A few days ago, I was perusing several different threads on this site looking for something in particular (my goal was specific in my search). I remember seeing a post about calling the US Embassy in Moscow to see if there were any cancellations and possibly getting the interview date scheduled sooner. At the time, I wasn't particularly looking for this information and didn't want to get sidetracked. Now, I'm interested and can not remember where I saw this post.

Anyone remember seeing it?

Thanks
TarsMaleRussia2008-02-05 00:23:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ

We did this as well. Made a couple thousand dollar difference.


This is for Russia-specific advice. Besides, if you can't get a SSN, you can get an ITIN for the purpose of filing taxes regardless of immigration status.



is it different for K3? do we have to wait for EAD before applying for SSN?
please let me know...............thanks
lmhvmNot TellingRussia2007-08-17 11:07:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
Dear Group helpsmilie.gif ,

My Masha, always creative rose.gif , claims she would need apostille translation (?) of
certificates (birth and divorce). I told her mad.gif no but I promise to ask in the
forum wacko.gif . In case this makes a difference: She has a boy who will start
high school this year here. Your replies are very very very appreciated.

Thank you good.gif
Javier
aspettandoMaleRussia2008-06-19 10:39:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
QUOTE (Tars @ May 12 2008, 02:29 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Ok, group. It is my turn to ask for advice/help again. I, too have "experts" that are telling me things (by experts, I refer to Russian women friends that are in my hometown). The I-134 "Affidavit of Support" clearly states that tax records are only needed if you are self employed. I did not send tax records to my fiance'e because I am employed. I sent four months worth of pay stubs, a copy of my W-2, a letter from my employer, a letter from my bank, and current copies of my IRA account.

I'm being reamed right now from the "experts" because I didn't send my 1040. Should I send the 1040?

Any input would be helpful.



I am sending to Masha all of the above including the 06 and 07 tax records. I don't want any surprises. Your interview date is 6/30 so you have time. Why taking a chance? You could scan them and send them to her by email...

This is what I would do.... Best luck to you good.gif
aspettandoMaleRussia2008-05-12 20:03:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
QUOTE (Bobalouie @ May 12 2008, 06:20 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (aspettando @ May 11 2008, 07:26 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Dear Group,

A few more questions: helpsmilie.gif

1. My Masha, always inquisitive rose.gif , has been "told" by "experts" that the international passport should be biometric for the visa granting. There is nothing in the official requirements mentioning the need of a biometric passport. Is there really a need for a biometric passport for the visa interview and subsequent entry to the US of A?

2. Some time ago there were complaints about IOM's treatment during medical exams mad.gif . But for non Moscow residents this a good deal since they give the medical results the same day. Have there been any recent complaints at IOM?

3. Please bear with me blink.gif . The DHL mailer is basically a prepaid envelope in which the US Embassy will mail passports back to the beneficiaries. Right? If so, must the addressee be the beneficiary her(him)self, and must the fee be from sending something from Moscow to the beneficiary's place?

Thank you for your patience . helpsmilie.gif
Javier


My fiancee had her interview on April 2nd, and she applied for her international passport in Mid January. Her passport is not biometric and it was not an issue. No one even mentioned anything about it.

My fiancee had her medical exam just before her April 2nd interview, and she did it at IOM. She said that there were no problems at all and that it was a normal exam.

The prepaid mailer does not have to be the beneficiarys address. My fiancee put the address of her local DHL office in Sochi and arranged for them to call her when it arrived so she could pick it up. You should have it sent to the most reliable address.


Got it. good.gif Thank you so much!
aspettandoMaleRussia2008-05-12 09:24:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
Dear Group,

A few more questions: helpsmilie.gif

1. My Masha, always inquisitive rose.gif , has been "told" by "experts" that the international passport should be biometric for the visa granting. There is nothing in the official requirements mentioning the need of a biometric passport. Is there really a need for a biometric passport for the visa interview and subsequent entry to the US of A?

2. Some time ago there were complaints about IOM's treatment during medical exams mad.gif . But for non Moscow residents this a good deal since they give the medical results the same day. Have there been any recent complaints at IOM?

3. Please bear with me blink.gif . The DHL mailer is basically a prepaid envelope in which the US Embassy will mail passports back to the beneficiaries. Right? If so, must the addressee be the beneficiary her(him)self, and must the fee be from sending something from Moscow to the beneficiary's place?

Thank you for your patience . helpsmilie.gif
Javier
aspettandoMaleRussia2008-05-11 19:26:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
QUOTE (Tars @ Apr 12 2008, 02:47 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Kazan @ Apr 12 2008, 01:51 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
The DOS would only be interested in her International Passport information. That is what they want.



Thanks for answering so quickly, Jeffery. So then I must ask: Natasha does not yet have an international passport. Must she get one before filing out the DS-156, or should she just write "None" in the spaces on the form?


According to my Masha, it takes three weeks to get a passport to go abroad and it costs some 3000 rubles. If faster, you have to add 2000 rubles. We are getting a passport for her son through a travel agency, so maybe it is cheaper if you do it directly with the official ministry... and enjoy Russian bureaucracy wacko.gif . If I were you I would try to get that passport asap. She will need it anyway for the visa to be stamped and when entering the US.

I am no expert, but this is what I would do. Best luck to you. star_smile.gif
aspettandoMaleRussia2008-04-15 22:51:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
Thank you for the answers. So fast! good.gif
aspettandoMaleRussia2008-03-26 08:58:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
Dear Group,

One more question. If the beneficiary has a child, does (s)he need permission from the former spouse to take the child to the US? I haven't seen any such requirement from the USCIS, but when I take my daughters out of the country, the airline requires a notarized permission letter from their mother allowing me to take them outside the US.

In my particular case, the ex lives in the Ukraine, whereas my Masha and son live in Russia (Petersburg).

Thank you for the help and support.

Javier headbonk.gif
aspettandoMaleRussia2008-03-25 23:09:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
Priviet!

Two questions about the medical exam.

1. I assume the blood test is to check for drugs and/or sexually transmitted diseases. But is there something else they check for?

2. I was reading about somebody's experience at the medical the other day and the lady was saying that they asked her if she had had an abortion. mad.gif Why is this important? I don't want to make this political or religious but if women have different rights somewhere else why asking this?

Again, I am just looking for the reasons. Thank you and paka!

PS I there are FAQs for this, I apologize and will appreciate very much if you direct me there.
aspettandoMaleRussia2008-03-13 09:30:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
QUOTE (Blues Fairy @ Feb 21 2008, 12:10 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (aspettando @ Feb 19 2008, 11:25 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
1. My girl [Masha] has lost her vaccinations records (organized she is not...). Will she have to get all the shots again?

2. She has a history of health problems and she is afraid to get new shots. I know these are not required for the K-1 visa, but they are for the AOS. Is there a way for USCIS to forgive the shots?


Here's what I did in the same situation. I went to the children's clinic in my home town to which my school was attached, and asked if they could help me recreate my vaccinations history. The head of the clinic turned out to be a very understanding and cooperative lady and she quickly filled out a typical vacc. report for me, in English! Immunization shots were uniformly administered to all school kids back then, so she just wrote down a typical vaccinations history for a person my age, with years and all. And since I did not have rubella shots (they were not given before 2001), she had a nurse give it to me on the spot, for free!


Thank you so much. We'll give a try.
aspettandoMaleRussia2008-02-23 12:41:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
QUOTE (Satellite @ Feb 19 2008, 04:55 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (aspettando @ Feb 19 2008, 08:25 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
2. She has a history of health problems
Just to give you and everyone the heads up. If health problems include any of the following she will be deneid a visa:

The following communicable diseases render a person inadmissible:
1. chancroid
2. gonorrhea
3. granuloma inguinale
4. acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS)
5. Hansen’’s disease (infectious leprosy)
6. lymphogranuloma venereum
7. infectious state syphilis
8. infectious tuberculosis (TB) (clinically active)

Physical or mental disorders which render one inadmissible include the following:
1. Current physical or mental disorders, with harmful behavior associated with the disorder.
2. Past physical or mental disorders with associated harmful behavior that is likely to recur or lead to other harmful behavior.
Harmful behavior is behavior that may pose, or has posed, a threat to the property, safety or welfare of the applicant or others. A person who mentally retarded is no longer inadmissible unless there is a determination that the applicant is exhibiting or has exhibited in the past, associated harmful behavior.
According to the Secretary of Health and Human Services, alcohol abuse or dependence resulting in alcohol impaired driving may serve as a basis for determining whether an immigrant has a mental disorder associated with harmful behavior. Section 212(a)(1)(A)(iii) of the Immigration and Nationality Act discusses the inadmissibility in cases where an applicant for an immigration benefit has a significant record of alcoholrelated driving incidents.

Drug Abuse or Addiction
Drug abuse or addiction applies to the nonmedical use of a psychoactive substance that is part of a pattern of abuse. There is an exception for experimentation. Clinical judgment is used to determine abuse or experimentation when the applicant’’s medical records indicate past nonmedical use of a psychoactive substance.

Lastly:
When a person is found to be inadmissible for health reasons, it does not definitively prevent the person from being issued a visa or entering the United States. A physical or mental condition can be corrected or one can prove that they do not fall into the categories. Waivers are also available for most of the medical grounds of inadmissibility.
For original source see:
http://www.lexisnexi...pdfs/web475.pdf


Thank you for the heads up. None of this applies to her.
aspettandoMaleRussia2008-02-19 23:50:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
QUOTE (slim @ Feb 12 2008, 10:39 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (aspettando @ Feb 12 2008, 12:25 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My first post here. Apologies in advance for the many mistakes I am sure I will make. Is there a similar FAQ list for Saint Petersburg (SP)? Does the SP consulate interview for K1 visas? Anybody willing to share his/her experience? Does anyone recommend a medical establishment in SP for the exam? Is there somebody in SP that is familiar with the interview process, somebody similar to Ms Pomazan in Moscow? My girl lives very close to SP and we hope she does not need to go to Moscow for her interview. Spasiba valshoi. Really, thank you for all your help. And if anybody interested in my experience, please let me know and I will share the very few things I know.


Welcome to the forum!

Sorry to burst your bubble, but all K-1s go through Moscow. No biggy though, we've all done it so feel free to jump right in on all these topics.

Hope to hear more of your story and help out if we can.


Thank you for the reply and the info. Moscow will be fine I hope. I still have a few questions if you guys don't mind.

1. My girl [Masha] has lost her vaccinations records (organized she is not...). Will she have to get all the shots again?

2. She has a history of health problems and she is afraid to get new shots. I know these are not required for the K-1 visa, but they are for the AOS. Is there a way for USCIS to forgive the shots?

3. Are instructions for package 3 in Russian? Not the forms. I am mingling with them now and I believe I have time as our NOA2 will happen at the end of April.

4. How is Masha supposed to send back the DS2001 to Moscow? DHL too?

5. I have downloaded DS2001 forms from the US embassies in Britain and Brazil, but I cannot find one from Moscow. Does anybody know where I can get a copy?

Again, thank you so much for all your help. I am glad I found this place as I was a nervous wreck.

Spasibo bol'shoye.
aspettandoMaleRussia2008-02-19 11:25:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
QUOTE (Kazan @ Feb 12 2008, 10:56 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Yes, welcome to our nutty Russian group! laughing.gif

Oh. BTW, Just to help you out, it's spasibo bol'shoye in transliterated latin characters.

QUOTE (aspettando @ Feb 12 2008, 12:25 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My first post here. Apologies in advance for the many mistakes I am sure I will make. Is there a similar FAQ list for Saint Petersburg (SP)? Does the SP consulate interview for K1 visas? Anybody willing to share his/her experience? Does anyone recommend a medical establishment in SP for the exam? Is there somebody in SP that is familiar with the interview process, somebody similar to Ms Pomazan in Moscow? My girl lives very close to SP and we hope she does not need to go to Moscow for her interview. Spasiba valshoi. Really, thank you for all your help. And if anybody interested in my experience, please let me know and I will share the very few things I know.



Then "spasibo bol'shoye" for the correction.
aspettandoMaleRussia2008-02-19 10:55:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
My first post here. Apologies in advance for the many mistakes I am sure I will make. Is there a similar FAQ list for Saint Petersburg (SP)? Does the SP consulate interview for K1 visas? Anybody willing to share his/her experience? Does anyone recommend a medical establishment in SP for the exam? Is there somebody in SP that is familiar with the interview process, somebody similar to Ms Pomazan in Moscow? My girl lives very close to SP and we hope she does not need to go to Moscow for her interview. Spasiba valshoi. Really, thank you for all your help. And if anybody interested in my experience, please let me know and I will share the very few things I know.


QUOTE (russ @ Jul 26 2007, 09:06 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Okay, here's my first attempt at making a FAQ for the Russia thread. Please PM me any corrections/comments/additions and I will edit it. This is mostly cut-and-pasted from questions
asked over the last year, with the most relevant answers.

Q. Does the police certificate need to be translated or notorized?

If the police report is in Russian, it does not need to be translated.

Q. Where can I stay (cheap) in Moscow?

A. There are no bargains.

-- From slim:
Russian Girl Friday
Contact Olesya Pomazan, the "Russian Girl Friday." She let my fiancee stay with her for about $35/night. She's a single mom with a flat in Moscow and is really familiar with the interview process.
Check out her website: http://www.russiangirlfriday.com

Moscow Rick speaks English, arrangements can be made by phone, and is reasonable.
http://www.moscowrick.com/
+7-495-741-7606 between 3 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET

Q. Can/will DHL hold the visa in Moscow?

A. Yes, you can specify to have it held at their office. This may save a few days if
you will be flying out as soon as you recieve it.

Q. How do I get an International Passport in Russia?

A. Go to ???? (OVIR) or the local government entity that does these. It can take up to 30 days. There are private travel companies that may be able to do it faster, though this should not cost more than 4 to 5,000 rubles. A Russian newspaper in a sufficiently large city will have classified ads from travel agencies providing such a service.

Q. How can I find a cheap flight to North America from Moscow?

A. Buy well in advance, and travel in the winter. Other tips: DL/Aeroflot Moscow to JFK is usually the cheapest route. If you are going elsewhere, try booking a one-way on JetBlue as the connection through NYC.

airtech.com has very cheap one-ways from Europe to North America (USD239). This will require you to find a cheap flight to a European hub though. (A one-way Moscow to Brussels is USD100). Taxes on European departures can be expensive, though.

If you live in a big city - sometimes it is cheaper to have a connection you don't use, if you know the flight will connect through your city. Example - instead of MOW->ATL, MOW->ATL->MCO may be cheaper then the non-stop. Buy the MOW->ATL->MCO ticket, but get off the plane in ATL and don't get on the flight to MCO. This works in any city that is a hub for the carrier. Try every possible connection through that hub and pick the cheapest smile.gif

Q. What is the cheapest way to call Russia?

A. To Moscow / St Petersburg land lines, 1 cent/minute is the best deal you will find. Mobile phones are about 6.5 cents/minute at the cheapest. 5-10cents/minute for the rest of Russia. Getting SIP handset and pointing it at the cheapest provider is your best bet, other than calling cards (which are a pain).

VOIP companies will be the cheapest, though this will take some knowledge on your part to set up. Probably worth the investment for call quality and price over the long term.

Q. Where to do the medical in Moscow?

A. IOM seems to be the most popular here.

The clinics approved for K-1 visa applications from Russia are

International Organization for Migration, telephone (7-095) 797-8723,
AO Meditsina, telephone (7-095) 250-9186 or 250-8899.
Children's Hospital no. 1, Vladivostok. Tel. (4232) 40-13-35 or (4232) 45-24-26.

IOM has results the same day and is $ 90.00. AOM has results the following morning and is $ 100.00. The reports are that people are treated much better at AOM

The clinic approved for K-1 visa applications from Ukraine are:

Clinic for Oil-Refining Industry of Ukraine
9, Spusk Protassov Yar
Kyiv, Ukraine
Telephone: 044-244-8941, 044-277-4181

Per-person fee for a medical exam is no more then $75 for adults and children. The Clinic performs medical examinations any

Working day (Monday through Friday), between 8.00am and 12.00pm.

TIP, Have her ask for a copy of her vaccination records. It will save you time and money in the USA later.

Q. How do I address a letter to Russia?

A. In cyrillic, Name last, in the dative case. Example:

??????
?. ?????? 117932
??. ??????? ??? 30 ?? 121
???????, ????? ?????????

To send a letter to ????? ????????? ??????? (Mrs Yeltsin) (the address is made up).
It is common in Russian to use last name followed by initials. For names ending in
"a", the ending is "e." If the name ends in "??" the ending is "??" Names ending
in "K" or "O" do not generally decline.
Mens names also decline, but I think anyone writing to a man here already speaks Russian.
Write RUSSIA in english somewhere on the envelope. Generally delivered in 10 days.

Q. How do I know when the interview will be?

A. For Moscow the online K-1 Visa Schedule is at http://moscow.usemba...r/wwwhci10.html

Q. When will packet 4 arrive?

A. Moscow only sends one packet, combining packets 3 & 4. Nothing further is required
on your part to schedule the interview.

Q. What paperwork is necessary at the interview?

A. :
1. A valid International Passport with a photocopy of the first page. They will keep this and return it with the visa fixed inside.

2. An original birth certificate with along with a photocopy and an English translation.

3. A police report in all names as well as all dates of birth ever used. Police certificate must contain references to each place in which the applicant lives or has lived for more than six months since attaining the age of 16.

4. Evidence of termination of prior marriage (if applicable), original, photocopy and translation into English.

5. Accompanying child requires a valid passport (or may be included in the parent's passport), a birth certificate and a medical examination. If a child is 16 years of age or over, police certificates are required. Translations of the indicated documents are required as well.

6. (3) black-and-white or color photos taken against a white or off - white background (5 x 5 cm) for visa which are basically passport style photos.

7. (3) photos of passport size for medical exam.

8. Visa application fee of $100 (or the ruble equivalent) per person, payable at the Embassy on the day of interview. Must be in cash.

9. A new letter of intent to marry from both addressed to the Embassy.

10. Documents confirming relationship: photos of Petitioner and Beneficiary together, letters to each other, phone bills, airplane tickets, emails, etc.

11. Results of Medical Examination in a sealed envelope. (clinic info following)

12. A prepaid DHL mailer. (There is a DHL office on the lower level of the building to the right of the north entrance of the US Embassy in Moscow. Ukraine applicants need a FedEx mailer and it can be purchased at the Embassy at the time of the interview.

There is information that she will need from you at the time of the interview. They include:

1. A letter from your employer stating position, salary, likelihood of your continued employment.
2. A letter from your bank stating your balance, your average balance, how long you have had your account (or the last 12 months bank statements)
3. A copy of the last year’s tax return if you are an employee or the last three years returns if you are self employed.
4. W-2’s for the last year.
5. Three consecutive recent pay stubs.
6. I-134 Affidavit of Support, signed and notarized.
7. A new letter of intent to marry addressed to the Moscow embassy.

Q. Am I being scammed?

A. Yes.

aspettandoMaleRussia2008-02-12 11:25:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussia Specific FAQ
How long does it take to receive the K-1 visa once the interview is complete? We are taking a trip to Thailand directly after the interview in Moscow, but I'm not sure how many days to allow for the K-1 after the interview? I don't expect to have to provide any additional information/proof, since we've been working together in Russia the last few years. Can I safely schedule a plane flight out of Moscow the day after the interview?
goncaptiveNot TellingRussia2009-04-16 17:38:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusBest way to ship 15 KG of winter clothes from Ukraine to USA?

*** Thread moved from General Immigration Discussion forum to the Russia/Ukraine/Belarus regional subforum -- topic is country-specific and not directly related to a specific immigration issue. ***


TBoneTXMaleEcuador2014-10-10 01:41:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusIs Ukraine Brides Agency a marriage broker? [split topic]

(This post was split from an ancient thread in the IMBRA forum and was moved here.)


TBoneTXMaleEcuador2014-10-14 11:35:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusVisa

As one who's also sadly familiar with battling baastard consulates (and still angry about it, 6+ years later), I was hoping for a positive update from you.  Heartiest congratulations, and thanks for your detailed reports that will certainly help others in the future.

 

Do you mind letting folks know the general nature of the brief that Marc Ellis wrote?  That would also be revealing.


TBoneTXMaleEcuador2014-09-29 23:41:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusA Wonderful Wedding Day!

Wonderful, and congratulations!

 

The AOS/EAD/AP paperwork is easier than the initial petition; there's just a seeming amount of duplication on the 3 separate packages that get mailed together in one envelope.

 

For ROC, collect anything that remotely applies as evidence, and throw it into a box.  When it comes time, you'll have more than enough to choose from.  Remember that Wills, powers of attorney, medical directives, and similar documents are excellent evidence.

 

For a humorous (?) look at the citizenship process, see:

http://www.visajourn...tizenship-test/


TBoneTXMaleEcuador2014-09-29 23:36:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusRussian fiancé has started freaking out

I am going to the interview with him.

This is the chief cure for his nerves.

 

There is no drawback, and every potential benefit, in the petitioner's presence in or near the premises during the interview.


TBoneTXMaleEcuador2014-10-22 00:57:00
Russia, Ukraine and BelarusK1 visa interview done

*** Thread moved from K-1 Process forum to the Russia/Ukraine/Belarus regional subforum, for country-specific input. ***


TBoneTXMaleEcuador2014-10-22 23:07:00