WandY

Send exactly what they ask for. I have always been against "front-loading" for any purpose. The whole notion of it may have caused you problems. Give them what they ask for - nothing more. I've dealt with the HCMC consulate several times - it can be difficult. The fact that they took her passport is probably a sign that you are close to approval. Give them what they want (quickly) and nothing more. Unless there's something major, you will probably get the visa.

University students matriculating in another state do not need to get a new license. Full-time students are considered domiciled in their home state/home address. This is common knowledge. Your good to go.

Unlike many VJ members giving you advice, I've spent a lot of time in VN and know many couples with consulate experience. I agree that you need to go to VN and spend some time, build evidence, and prove your case is legitimate. In my opinion, your case looks like fraud because you met through family in the U.S. There really is a lot of fraudulent marriage cases between VN and U.S. I've been asked to participate in a few. Don't bother hiring an attorney, filing complaints, notifying politicians, etc. Not yet, anyway. Those strategies rarely work and do nothing but drain you of time and treasure. Go to VN, if possible, and build more time and evidence with your wife and family. Eventually, you'll be approved. No doubt in my mind about that.

Looks good, but it's been a long time since we did the K-1 interview in HCMC. We took copies of everything to the interview. Don't give them a giant pile of paper, but do give them an organized compilation of everything they ask for. I've been to the consulate a couple of times and successfully made it through the K-1. Some advice for the actual interview: -Get there early and only take what you need. Leave your luggage and stuff at the hotel/home. -Don't talk to people on the street near the consulate - a lof of scammers and bad actors. -Don't look nervous while waiting to be called to the window. Smile. Be confident. -The American can go to the window, but they may tell you to take a seat while they talk to fiance. -Fiance needs to speak English and if she doesn't understand a question, tell them so. -If you have anything that may be questionable or raise a red flag, be prepared to talk about it. -Don't offer to explain anything they have not asked you about. Only answer the questions they direct towards you. -Be nice. They hold the power. We spent a lot of time inside the consulate watching interviews. And we know a lot of K-1 couples (Vietnam). If the American is present at the interview, it will be approved (unless something obvious is bad). You have to be prepared, but be real. Don't try to over-explain or get upset. You'll get through it OK. Good luck!

There are a lot of fake marriages between U.S. and Vietnam. My VN wife has been asked to help with the scam arrangements. It doesn't amuse (or tempt) her because we spent a lot of time, money, and energy getting her to America. The fakers disgust me.