I have been looking for experiences from people in similar situations but haven't found much so I figured I'd post my own.
I am being transferred to the US by my company with the goal of taking up work by 1 June 2006.
Our current plans (despite my shortcut post) are to submit everything to the Frankfurt consulate, and hope that my wifes plans to leave the apartment and her job by 1 Sept 2006 are not too short-fused.
I finished the I-130 "package" totaling 20+ pages (not to mention the 50 or 60 pages in the trash because of mistrakes) today and will probably bring it to Frankfurt on 25 or 26 April. I have also started on the other paperwork.
Questions I have;
Translations of divorce decrees: We were both divorced in Germany and my German is good enough to translate the documents. Can I do this myself and affirm they are ok, or do I even need to translate them at all - can the consulate do it? Or is there a list of translators out there somewhere that can do this?
Forms: I am using the forms from http://www.usa-federal-forms.com/. While they aren't perfect, I find them vastly better than anything else available - the ITAOP system lets you enter and save the data. Does anyone have any experience with submitting these forms to the officials?
Paper size and type: The only paper I have is either DIN-A4 or US Letter letterhead from my employer. I have printed everything on the backs of the letterhead to keep the size in letter - I wonder if this is going to make my life difficult? (We can add this to the "staples" and "envelopes" category.)
Anything I've forgotten - recommendations?
Full Version: DCF through Frankfurt
VisaJourney.com > Marriage Based Immigration (K1, K2, K3, etc) to the USA > Direct Consular Filing (DCF) General Discussion
QUOTE(Germlish @ Apr 22 2006, 04:11 PM) 
I have been looking for experiences from people in similar situations but haven't found much so I figured I'd post my own.
I am being transferred to the US by my company with the goal of taking up work by 1 June 2006.
Our current plans (despite my shortcut post) are to submit everything to the Frankfurt consulate, and hope that my wifes plans to leave the apartment and her job by 1 Sept 2006 are not too short-fused.
I finished the I-130 "package" totaling 20+ pages (not to mention the 50 or 60 pages in the trash because of mistrakes) today and will probably bring it to Frankfurt on 25 or 26 April. I have also started on the other paperwork.
Questions I have;
Translations of divorce decrees: We were both divorced in Germany and my German is good enough to translate the documents. Can I do this myself and affirm they are ok, or do I even need to translate them at all - can the consulate do it? Or is there a list of translators out there somewhere that can do this?
Forms: I am using the forms from http://www.usa-federal-forms.com/. While they aren't perfect, I find them vastly better than anything else available - the ITAOP system lets you enter and save the data. Does anyone have any experience with submitting these forms to the officials?
Paper size and type: The only paper I have is either DIN-A4 or US Letter letterhead from my employer. I have printed everything on the backs of the letterhead to keep the size in letter - I wonder if this is going to make my life difficult? (We can add this to the "staples" and "envelopes" category.)
Anything I've forgotten - recommendations?
hiya Germlish, I jut caught up with your other post.. graceful exit!
first off, on the paper, you are overthinking. Yes, you're dealing with a US entity, but where are most of us going to get US sized paper when overseas? heheh.. I used the 'reduce' button on my printer to print my forms etc. Whatever works for you is ok; you won't be penalized (staples and envelopes.. you're going to have FUN! lol)
If your German is sufficient, it's certainly been done to do your own translations. My Greek was not sufficient and I didn't trust any of my friends there enough to handle the job, so I used an agency. *That* was very expensive.
Your timeline looks reasonable, but I'm wondering what the heck is in your I-130 packet.. but look, don't let others do your deal for you; I am NOT second-guessing you, not after 18 hours of research or whatever you said. Seriously, back away from the PC!
You seem to have a good grasp on the process. I'll recommend that you search the archives if you haven't already (http://www.visajourney.com/forums2/index.php?s=&act=Search&mode=adv Be sure to set the date to 'any' and narrow yourself to the DCF Forum) as I know there are a few Ffurt stories in there. Also visit www.kamya.com/interview for experiences... really there is not much to this. Hopefully the DCF Guide helped you, and the CR-1 Guide will also be helpful for the visa application portion.
I look forward to getting to know you and cheering you on through your DCF!
meauxna
PS: you were spot on and 'got' it quickly re: the VWP plan. It's all about 'intent'. If you get bored or still hope it will work, google/groups for "10 foot pole" and you'll get an earful on the topic. Plus, you'll find that the method you are using is so far superior to a VWP AOS that it's not even funny. My hub is up for his US citizenship already in the same time it takes many to just get a Green Card. Seriously, you're on to The Good Thing here.
Hello Germlish,
I am doing DCF Frankfurt also; we mailed our I-130 and its gazillions of pieces of paper on 11th April. We're not so far ahead of you so I'm afraid I can't offer any handy tips or advice at this point. Just wanted to say hi
I'll keep my timeline updated as we progress; do feel free to PM me.
Good luck!
I am doing DCF Frankfurt also; we mailed our I-130 and its gazillions of pieces of paper on 11th April. We're not so far ahead of you so I'm afraid I can't offer any handy tips or advice at this point. Just wanted to say hi
I'll keep my timeline updated as we progress; do feel free to PM me.
Good luck!
I actually haven't found any experiences posted on this website for the Frankfurt Consulate via DCF. There are some experiences available though for IR-1/CR-1, which is a similar process to what we are doing.
My husband and I have re-submitted our I-130 after a payment problem. As far as I can tell, the process seems to be somewhat quick given that they received our package and immediately sent it back within a week.
I actually brought US size paper with me to Germany because I had to write my graduate thesis. I have a huge pack left over. Honestly, it makes no difference. After photocopying everything, it may be more visually appealing if all the paper is one uniform size. I'm using European size paper and US size paper. Doh!
We're hoping to move to Massachusetts in late July or early August. I hope our plans aren't too strict either. But we actually have all of our documents even for the interview stage. We're only waiting for the "Police Certificate" which might take up to two weeks. The minute we get our I-130 approval and "packet 3," we will send "packet 3" off the next day (or whatever the process is) and also fax the "Document Worksheet" so hopefully our interview will be scheduled in early June. (It's a tight schedule, but I'm hoping for the best.)
Good luck!
My husband and I have re-submitted our I-130 after a payment problem. As far as I can tell, the process seems to be somewhat quick given that they received our package and immediately sent it back within a week.
I actually brought US size paper with me to Germany because I had to write my graduate thesis. I have a huge pack left over. Honestly, it makes no difference. After photocopying everything, it may be more visually appealing if all the paper is one uniform size. I'm using European size paper and US size paper. Doh!
We're hoping to move to Massachusetts in late July or early August. I hope our plans aren't too strict either. But we actually have all of our documents even for the interview stage. We're only waiting for the "Police Certificate" which might take up to two weeks. The minute we get our I-130 approval and "packet 3," we will send "packet 3" off the next day (or whatever the process is) and also fax the "Document Worksheet" so hopefully our interview will be scheduled in early June. (It's a tight schedule, but I'm hoping for the best.)
Good luck!
Thanks for the replies everyone!
@meauxna - USA and Canada are the only countries in the world still on the letter size standard. Mexico gets stuck with it because of the cheap paper from the us. Guess I should done everything on A4 :-)
I was thinking the paper size was solved by using originals that had been ordered or picked up at the consulate. I have everything on the back of my companies letterhead. Might look funny but it works.
I asked an agency in San Francisco for the costs and it was over $600 for what I wanted. I asked the USCIS agent on the phone if I could do it and he didn't seem to think it would be wrong.
We needed translations to German for her passport and name change, and the recommended place was asking like 60/page. We found someone who did it for 66,- for everything.
Pages in my my I-130:
2x I-130,
8x G-325 biographic info,
1x marriage certificate,
1x my birth certificate,
1x her passport copy
2x german divorce decrees (total 5 pages),
2x translation div decrees (5 more pages)
= 23 pages so far.
@ candace - I am hoping to be able to take everything needed with me (including my wife) to the first trip up there and do everything as much as possible all at once. I need to be back in the US by June, and I want it all done before I am gone.
I've seen your posts about the passport maiden name. I recognized that as a problem very early and while in Vegas paid the extra money to get the Apostille here within a month. After I had that we could get the name change done by the local Standesamt (State Registrar), then apply for an express passport, which should arrive Monday.
Once I have that, her and I will be going to Frankfurt, turbo.
@zauberblume - I was in the US begining of April and picking up us letter paper was on my list - however, reading my list wasn't on my list so I came back without it.
Can I ask what the payment problem was? I'm intending to do this in person and I understand that Frankfurt takes credit cards, but how do we send money in Germany - Paypal ???
And another BIGGIE question to any and all. If my wife has to do the interview without me being there, will her lack of english be a big problem?
@meauxna - USA and Canada are the only countries in the world still on the letter size standard. Mexico gets stuck with it because of the cheap paper from the us. Guess I should done everything on A4 :-)
I was thinking the paper size was solved by using originals that had been ordered or picked up at the consulate. I have everything on the back of my companies letterhead. Might look funny but it works.
I asked an agency in San Francisco for the costs and it was over $600 for what I wanted. I asked the USCIS agent on the phone if I could do it and he didn't seem to think it would be wrong.
We needed translations to German for her passport and name change, and the recommended place was asking like 60/page. We found someone who did it for 66,- for everything.
Pages in my my I-130:
2x I-130,
8x G-325 biographic info,
1x marriage certificate,
1x my birth certificate,
1x her passport copy
2x german divorce decrees (total 5 pages),
2x translation div decrees (5 more pages)
= 23 pages so far.
@ candace - I am hoping to be able to take everything needed with me (including my wife) to the first trip up there and do everything as much as possible all at once. I need to be back in the US by June, and I want it all done before I am gone.
I've seen your posts about the passport maiden name. I recognized that as a problem very early and while in Vegas paid the extra money to get the Apostille here within a month. After I had that we could get the name change done by the local Standesamt (State Registrar), then apply for an express passport, which should arrive Monday.
Once I have that, her and I will be going to Frankfurt, turbo.
@zauberblume - I was in the US begining of April and picking up us letter paper was on my list - however, reading my list wasn't on my list so I came back without it.
Can I ask what the payment problem was? I'm intending to do this in person and I understand that Frankfurt takes credit cards, but how do we send money in Germany - Paypal ???
And another BIGGIE question to any and all. If my wife has to do the interview without me being there, will her lack of english be a big problem?
Hey meauxna - searching the archives tells me that I'm not logged on - must be a system bug, I'll try again later.
QUOTE(Germlish @ Apr 23 2006, 11:40 AM)
Hey meauxna - searching the archives tells me that I'm not logged on - must be a system bug, I'll try again later.
Dave may be the only one who has reported the entire German experience: http://www.visajourney.com/forums2/index.p...89&hl=frankfurt
Let me know if you can't dig out any more posts from the archives (you should be able to surf there from that link). You can also PM CaptainEwok (administrator) or post to the Site Related Discussion forum about your search results. (don't know if you needed to be registered back then to search? seems silly...)
On the paper size, my packages were a mixture of paper sizes; I really would not worry over that one.
If your wife interviews without you, they should conduct the interview in English or German, her choice.
QUOTE(Germlish @ Apr 23 2006, 01:28 PM)
... I understand that Frankfurt takes credit cards, but how do we send money in Germany - Paypal ???
We used a personal check drawn on a US bank account, on the guidance sheet the other options are a cashier's check or money order for mail applications.
I'd call them up if you can't find a suitable method (their telephone lines are available mornings only I believe) because the Frankfurt office website does also say 'or equivalent in euros' (although it's pretty out of date in other things) so I suppose you may also be able to pay with a euro money order?
~Candace
QUOTE(Germlish @ Apr 23 2006, 01:28 PM)
@zauberblume - I was in the US begining of April and picking up us letter paper was on my list - however, reading my list wasn't on my list so I came back without it.
Can I ask what the payment problem was? I'm intending to do this in person and I understand that Frankfurt takes credit cards, but how do we send money in Germany - Paypal ???
In our mailed application, we sent a Zur Verrechnung check. The Consulate does not accept personal checks or Zur Verrechnung checks. As per the document mailed back to me from the American Consulate General, the Consulate only accepts "US Postal Money Order, Cashiers Checks or Credit Card payment form payable to Department of Homeland Security." This document asks that we resubmit the entire package. Attached to the form was a Credit Card payment form. We used that and mailed it today.
If you take your application in person, there may be different requirements. However, I'm certain that these are the requirements for mailed applications within Germany as I have just experienced it. The Consulate does not accept personal checks or Zur Verrechnung checks. (I wish I could pin that so anyone else who is applying would know that. I had no idea and unfortunately lost a week of processing time. Oh well. Not a biggie since we found out quickly.)
Meauxna,
Do you know how to search the archives for DCF? I can't seem to figure it out.
Do you know how to search the archives for DCF? I can't seem to figure it out.
QUOTE(zauberblume @ Apr 24 2006, 02:55 AM)
QUOTE(Germlish @ Apr 23 2006, 01:28 PM)
@zauberblume - I was in the US begining of April and picking up us letter paper was on my list - however, reading my list wasn't on my list so I came back without it.
Can I ask what the payment problem was? I'm intending to do this in person and I understand that Frankfurt takes credit cards, but how do we send money in Germany - Paypal ???
In our mailed application, we sent a Zur Verrechnung check. The Consulate does not accept personal checks or Zur Verrechnung checks. As per the document mailed back to me from the American Consulate General, the Consulate only accepts "US Postal Money Order, Cashiers Checks or Credit Card payment form payable to Department of Homeland Security." This document asks that we resubmit the entire package. Attached to the form was a Credit Card payment form. We used that and mailed it today.
If you take your application in person, there may be different requirements. However, I'm certain that these are the requirements for mailed applications within Germany as I have just experienced it. The Consulate does not accept personal checks or Zur Verrechnung checks. (I wish I could pin that so anyone else who is applying would know that. I had no idea and unfortunately lost a week of processing time. Oh well. Not a biggie since we found out quickly.)
Zauberblume - yep, same thing for us. We mailed a US personal check: Just received the returned I-130 in the post today along with the Credit Card payment form, which we will complete and re-send tomorrow. Grrr!
So scratch what I said above -FRANKFURT DON'T ACCEPT PERSONAL CHECKS!
This is how I search the archives:
http://www.visajourney.com/forums2/index.p...Search&mode=adv
I set the date to 'any' and narrow it to the DCF Forum.
You can also search by user name if you want only Dave's posts, for example.
I surf to that link by going to the top of any page. Where the 'search' box is, click on 'advanced'. At the advanced search page there is a link for searching the archives.
I hope those of you who joined after Jan 06 can search in there; if not, please post in the Site Related Discussion forum. Admin should be able to fix that.
http://www.visajourney.com/forums2/index.p...Search&mode=adv
I set the date to 'any' and narrow it to the DCF Forum.
You can also search by user name if you want only Dave's posts, for example.
I surf to that link by going to the top of any page. Where the 'search' box is, click on 'advanced'. At the advanced search page there is a link for searching the archives.
I hope those of you who joined after Jan 06 can search in there; if not, please post in the Site Related Discussion forum. Admin should be able to fix that.
Meauxna,
Thanks! I was able to find a few more posts about DCF in Germany.
Candace,
It's quite irritating, isn't it? At least for me it was. I thought I read the website rather well and it never said anything about not accepting personal or Zur Verrechnung checks. When you click on visa payment options on the U.S. Embassy Frankfurt website, it's kind of vague anyway. Now I need to try to get my 161.00/$190.00 back from the U.S. Embassy. Grrr!
Thanks! I was able to find a few more posts about DCF in Germany.
Candace,
It's quite irritating, isn't it? At least for me it was. I thought I read the website rather well and it never said anything about not accepting personal or Zur Verrechnung checks. When you click on visa payment options on the U.S. Embassy Frankfurt website, it's kind of vague anyway. Now I need to try to get my 161.00/$190.00 back from the U.S. Embassy. Grrr!
QUOTE(zauberblume @ Apr 24 2006, 01:26 PM)
Candace,
It's quite irritating, isn't it? At least for me it was. I thought I read the website rather well and it never said anything about not accepting personal or Zur Verrechnung checks. When you click on visa payment options on the U.S. Embassy Frankfurt website, it's kind of vague anyway. Now I need to try to get my 161.00/$190.00 back from the U.S. Embassy. Grrr!
Yes, I have been growling to myself since I got the submission back yesterday. Luckily as we had our personal check sent back, we don't need to chase around for our money. Why on earth they don't have the credit card form as a downloadable form I do not know. Sigh. Anyway.
Sorry to hijack your thread Germlish! Looks like the three of us will be going through all this at around the same time. Good luck with completing your submission
Germlish,
I would recommend also visiting the following webpage if you have a good command of German. I don't and therefore cannot really understand fully what some people are taking about. Whatever the case, people there have filed DCF. The website is: http://www.auswanderer-forum.com/forums/.
One poster posted his timeline:
DCF Timeline:
02-14-2006 She said "Yes!!" on Valentins-day
03-18-2006 Wedding in Tucson AZ with Family
04-05-2006 Filed I-130, DS-230 and Checklist in Frankfurt
04-15-2006 Invitation for Interview in Mailbox
04-19-2006 Medical Examination in Dortmund
05-09-2006 Interview in Frankfurt
As you can see here, if you file in person in Frankfurt, depending on your case, the process itself may be quite speedy. If the poster above has a successful interview, the entire process would then take only about six to seven weeks from filing date to visa in hand.
(The key, I believe, is to have already collected all the documents on the checklist such as the police certificate and the Affidavit of Support.)
Had I known it would go so fast, I would've considered flying down to Frankfurt and filing in person since my husband and I need to leave by August. And there's nothing like having the visa sooner rather than later.
Ah well. If you have it all together, of which there is a lot, I do think your journey will be speedy!
I would recommend also visiting the following webpage if you have a good command of German. I don't and therefore cannot really understand fully what some people are taking about. Whatever the case, people there have filed DCF. The website is: http://www.auswanderer-forum.com/forums/.
One poster posted his timeline:
DCF Timeline:
02-14-2006 She said "Yes!!" on Valentins-day
03-18-2006 Wedding in Tucson AZ with Family
04-05-2006 Filed I-130, DS-230 and Checklist in Frankfurt
04-15-2006 Invitation for Interview in Mailbox
04-19-2006 Medical Examination in Dortmund
05-09-2006 Interview in Frankfurt
As you can see here, if you file in person in Frankfurt, depending on your case, the process itself may be quite speedy. If the poster above has a successful interview, the entire process would then take only about six to seven weeks from filing date to visa in hand.
(The key, I believe, is to have already collected all the documents on the checklist such as the police certificate and the Affidavit of Support.)
Had I known it would go so fast, I would've considered flying down to Frankfurt and filing in person since my husband and I need to leave by August. And there's nothing like having the visa sooner rather than later.
Ah well. If you have it all together, of which there is a lot, I do think your journey will be speedy!
Hello all,
I am fairly sure the US embassy accepts documents in the language of the country the embassy is in. That is why you do not need a translation of the police certificate from Germany if you submit to Frankfurt. So I do not believe you need to translate anything if it is in German and you are submitting to Frankfurt. I could be wrong but am fairly sure the instructions state this.
Dave
I am fairly sure the US embassy accepts documents in the language of the country the embassy is in. That is why you do not need a translation of the police certificate from Germany if you submit to Frankfurt. So I do not believe you need to translate anything if it is in German and you are submitting to Frankfurt. I could be wrong but am fairly sure the instructions state this.
Dave
QUOTE(roscove @ Apr 25 2006, 10:47 AM)
Hello all,
I am fairly sure the US embassy accepts documents in the language of the country the embassy is in. That is why you do not need a translation of the police certificate from Germany if you submit to Frankfurt. So I do not believe you need to translate anything if it is in German and you are submitting to Frankfurt. I could be wrong but am fairly sure the instructions state this.
Dave
You're right about that. Just had my interview in Frannkfurt and they accept German documents without translation, as evidenced by their acceptance of my birth certificate and the police report.
Hi All
Lotsa good stuff here and a bit of my own to add.
Re: the translations;
This whole visa thing is two department process; US State Dept. and USCIS. The USCIS gets the I-130 and they have a normal number to call. I did just that today and asked him if my own translation of the divorec decree was ok, he said yes as long as I state that it is a true and accurate translation. (He didn't happen to mention that it wasn't necessary to translate at all if it's in German but by the way he answered, I can imagine they don't need any translation at all.)
I figured the difference between the two departments could have an affect on the language requirements; USCIS deals only with people wanting to come to the US, State dept deals with all things foreign so they should have translators and multi-lingual people on staff.
Re: the payments
I will be travelling to the consulate by car and will take credit cards and cash with me. I have a US bank account but (fortunately :-) no checks for it. Thanks for hint about the Verrechnungsscheck - good to have it posted here, and good to know that the consulate does not accept personel checks.
Re: Searching the archives
I got this hashed out. When you open the archives link, the login info disappears. And, when you search, if nothing is returned, it looks like you have to log in. Read the info carefully, then change the search data to get some hits, it worked.
Was some nice info in there and interesting cases. (Like DCF in Romania with USC not resident in country, got his Romanian bride to the US within a month after the marriage.)
Re: The paper size.
The USCIS guy seemed to be a bit suprised by this one as well. His answer was something along the lines of " ... as long as you aren't trying to file on poster sized paper ..."
Re: Residency requirement in Germany
The friendly USCIS man did specifically ask me to bring my residency permit. I have the residency permit glued into my passport but I am also registered in Germany so I will bring that document also.
It also says on the Frankfurt consulate website German residency required.
Re: Website quality for the consulate
Having said that about the residency requirement, I have seen other silly thing on their web site and on the Austrian consular web site. In Austria they have a very niceh German list of what to do, but several things are wrong - like translations have to be done by a certified translator. And on the Frankfurt website there are references to paying with DM, a currency which hasn't been in circulation here now for several years.
Key takeaway? You only ever know whats REALLY true after having done it.
Re: Auswanderer Forum
I have also been reading there and it is a good German specific forum. I've not signed up because while I can read it all (16 years over here), my written German has a horrible american accent - as does my spoken German. I was trying to get my wife to read through it but she is even busier than I am.
Re: current status
We have her new passport with my name in it, we are travelling to Frankfurt tomorrow evening. Friday (28 Apr 06) morning she will be at the Dr. while I file the I-130, she meets me back at the consulate and we hope to get at least some other parts of this done the same day.
Thanks for all the wishes, I hope to be posting some cool stuff on Saturday!
P.S. I see some people posting the timeline in the signature block. I have filled in the timelink link but it is still a bit empty on the normal fields. The nots block shows more details. If you think I should add the timeline as part of my signature let me know.
Lotsa good stuff here and a bit of my own to add.
Re: the translations;
This whole visa thing is two department process; US State Dept. and USCIS. The USCIS gets the I-130 and they have a normal number to call. I did just that today and asked him if my own translation of the divorec decree was ok, he said yes as long as I state that it is a true and accurate translation. (He didn't happen to mention that it wasn't necessary to translate at all if it's in German but by the way he answered, I can imagine they don't need any translation at all.)
I figured the difference between the two departments could have an affect on the language requirements; USCIS deals only with people wanting to come to the US, State dept deals with all things foreign so they should have translators and multi-lingual people on staff.
Re: the payments
I will be travelling to the consulate by car and will take credit cards and cash with me. I have a US bank account but (fortunately :-) no checks for it. Thanks for hint about the Verrechnungsscheck - good to have it posted here, and good to know that the consulate does not accept personel checks.
Re: Searching the archives
I got this hashed out. When you open the archives link, the login info disappears. And, when you search, if nothing is returned, it looks like you have to log in. Read the info carefully, then change the search data to get some hits, it worked.
Was some nice info in there and interesting cases. (Like DCF in Romania with USC not resident in country, got his Romanian bride to the US within a month after the marriage.)
Re: The paper size.
The USCIS guy seemed to be a bit suprised by this one as well. His answer was something along the lines of " ... as long as you aren't trying to file on poster sized paper ..."
Re: Residency requirement in Germany
The friendly USCIS man did specifically ask me to bring my residency permit. I have the residency permit glued into my passport but I am also registered in Germany so I will bring that document also.
It also says on the Frankfurt consulate website German residency required.
Re: Website quality for the consulate
Having said that about the residency requirement, I have seen other silly thing on their web site and on the Austrian consular web site. In Austria they have a very niceh German list of what to do, but several things are wrong - like translations have to be done by a certified translator. And on the Frankfurt website there are references to paying with DM, a currency which hasn't been in circulation here now for several years.
Key takeaway? You only ever know whats REALLY true after having done it.
Re: Auswanderer Forum
I have also been reading there and it is a good German specific forum. I've not signed up because while I can read it all (16 years over here), my written German has a horrible american accent - as does my spoken German. I was trying to get my wife to read through it but she is even busier than I am.
Re: current status
We have her new passport with my name in it, we are travelling to Frankfurt tomorrow evening. Friday (28 Apr 06) morning she will be at the Dr. while I file the I-130, she meets me back at the consulate and we hope to get at least some other parts of this done the same day.
Thanks for all the wishes, I hope to be posting some cool stuff on Saturday!
P.S. I see some people posting the timeline in the signature block. I have filled in the timelink link but it is still a bit empty on the normal fields. The nots block shows more details. If you think I should add the timeline as part of my signature let me know.
QUOTE(Germlish @ Apr 26 2006, 01:08 PM)
Hi All
Lotsa good stuff here and a bit of my own to add.
Re: the translations;
This whole visa thing is two department process; US State Dept. and USCIS. The USCIS gets the I-130 and they have a normal number to call. I did just that today and asked him if my own translation of the divorec decree was ok, he said yes as long as I state that it is a true and accurate translation. (He didn't happen to mention that it wasn't necessary to translate at all if it's in German but by the way he answered, I can imagine they don't need any translation at all.)
I figured the difference between the two departments could have an affect on the language requirements; USCIS deals only with people wanting to come to the US, State dept deals with all things foreign so they should have translators and multi-lingual people on staff.
hiya Germ, good work!
To confirm/clarify about the agencies and translations:
In some Consulates, there is a USCIS Field Ofice and the I-130 is actually processed by them and passed over to the Immigrant Visa Unit, which is part of the State Dept.
Anything destined for USCIS must be in English or have an English translation.
Anything destined for the Consulate can be in English or the local language(s).
In a 'true' DCF case where the Consulate adjudicates the I-130, I'm not sure what the 'rule' would be, but I would be tempted to keep all things I-130 related in English or translated, and all things visa application related in English or the local language.
Frankfurt, London and Athens all have local USCIS offices, so anyone filing in those offices is not a 'true' DCF case even tho everything is filed abroad (hope that makes sense). You can find the other USCIS Field Offices here: http://www.uscis.gov/graphics/fieldoffices/worldmap.htm
I would suspect that your German language divorce cert must be translated for the I-130 submission.
Thanks Meaxuna - I agree completly.
The Immigration checklist (required by the Frankfurt consulate) says all documents can be in German except if there are any entries on the police report and all court records must be translated and submitted in triplicate.
I've translated the divorce documents and put a signed statement on them that they are accurate and blahblah. If nothing else I'll just have to get them done by someone.
That makes sense about the DCF, though I'd never though of it that way. Since the acronym DCF is actually "public domain created" I guess it could be construed to mean any filing done at the consulate, and the USCIS offices are colocated in the consulate - or is it really "Direct Consular Filing? Agh - semantics - just hope this all works.
I'm hacking on the I-864 now and it's lotsa fun too!
The Immigration checklist (required by the Frankfurt consulate) says all documents can be in German except if there are any entries on the police report and all court records must be translated and submitted in triplicate.
I've translated the divorce documents and put a signed statement on them that they are accurate and blahblah. If nothing else I'll just have to get them done by someone.
That makes sense about the DCF, though I'd never though of it that way. Since the acronym DCF is actually "public domain created" I guess it could be construed to mean any filing done at the consulate, and the USCIS offices are colocated in the consulate - or is it really "Direct Consular Filing? Agh - semantics - just hope this all works.
I'm hacking on the I-864 now and it's lotsa fun too!
QUOTE(Germlish @ Apr 26 2006, 03:57 PM)
That makes sense about the DCF, though I'd never though of it that way. Since the acronym DCF is actually "public domain created" I guess it could be construed to mean any filing done at the consulate, and the USCIS offices are colocated in the consulate - or is it really "Direct Consular Filing? Agh - semantics - just hope this all works.
I'm hacking on the I-864 now and it's lotsa fun too!
hmm, oddly enough (for me) I never looked up when the term Direct Consular Filing came into play.
It is a semantics thing.. but one that hardly matters to the end user. I used to have it all in the Guide, but it just confuses things.
The 'direct' part of the filing refers to the petition I-130, which would normally be filed in the US. The visa application always takes place.
If you want to read the law that governs 'true' DCF, check this out. It probably explains it better than I:
http://foia.state.gov/masterdocs/09fam/09n0200.pdf
Oh yeah, the I-864 can be a lot of fun when you're living overseas. Lucky for you, I think yours will be more straightforward than most. Have fun!
QUOTE(meauxna @ Apr 27 2006, 01:58 AM)
Oh yeah, the I-864 can be a lot of fun when you're living overseas. Lucky for you, I think yours will be more straightforward than most. Have fun!
Yep - it was lots of fun
though you are probably right, more straghtforward than most. I earn enough to keep us above the poverty line and didn't have any tax returns, additional people, nor any other distractors.But now, the tension is mounting !
I {hope and believe I} have now (4:30 am) finished all paperwork for both the I-130 and the Frankfurt checklist (DS-230, I-864 and co).
Please everyone wish us luck. My wife and I will be in Frankfurt at oh-dark-thirty Friday morning. She will get her medical while I am filing the I-130, and hopefully she will finish with the Dr and be back at the consulate in time to be there to submit the visa stuff, we will see.
Stay tuned for more.
By way of an idle question.. she got it cleared to take the medical ahead of time, and it's with a panel doc?
I have *every* confidence in you--you really got a grip on the whole process quickly and I can tell you've put a lot of effort into getting everything right and thoroughly. No need to wish you luck, you're too prepared! It'll be a doodle and you'll be wondering what all the fuss was about, you'll see.
Still, it's a great time if you make it--we're almost at the end of the road now, but I remember those days very fondly. I hope you will too! (er, your own, not mine <g>)
OK, a little mojo going your way.. .have a good time & come back for a report--I think you've done a great job of documenting the path for the people who come after you!
I have *every* confidence in you--you really got a grip on the whole process quickly and I can tell you've put a lot of effort into getting everything right and thoroughly. No need to wish you luck, you're too prepared! It'll be a doodle and you'll be wondering what all the fuss was about, you'll see.
Still, it's a great time if you make it--we're almost at the end of the road now, but I remember those days very fondly. I hope you will too! (er, your own, not mine <g>)
OK, a little mojo going your way.. .have a good time & come back for a report--I think you've done a great job of documenting the path for the people who come after you!
she got it cleared to take the medical ahead of time, and it's with a panel doc?
I emailed the Frankfurt Embassy that exact question.
My Email:
"On April 15, 2006, I filed an I-130 visa petition with American Consulate General in Frankfurt. The petition has not yet been approved. As I have gained more understanding about this process, I would like to know if the beneficiary can complete the medical examination at an U.S. Embassy certified physician in Berlin while the petition and subsequent Immigrant Visa Application, DS 230, are pending."
Response from a Chief at the Frankfurt Embassy Immigrant Visa Unit:
"Referring to your e-mail of April 24, 2006 concerning the medical examination, we would like to inform you that the examination has to be performed in the country where the visa is issued. If the applicant chooses to have his visa case processed here in Frankfurt, he would be required to have the medical examination performed by one of our cleared panel physicians as listed below. The examination may be done prior to the applicant's appointment."
Notice that he didn't directly answer my question. There's still a logistical or, rather, an organizational problem. Does he mean prior to the interview stage or prior to the approval for the petition and subsequent application? I think he means that the examination can be done prior to the interview, which may well be while the petition is pending.
Some people choose not to take the medical examination before the interview or even while the petition is pending because they want to know that they'll actually receive the visa or receive application approval, barring that there are no problems with the medical examination. At least, that's what I think right now.
I emailed the Frankfurt Embassy that exact question.
My Email:
"On April 15, 2006, I filed an I-130 visa petition with American Consulate General in Frankfurt. The petition has not yet been approved. As I have gained more understanding about this process, I would like to know if the beneficiary can complete the medical examination at an U.S. Embassy certified physician in Berlin while the petition and subsequent Immigrant Visa Application, DS 230, are pending."
Response from a Chief at the Frankfurt Embassy Immigrant Visa Unit:
"Referring to your e-mail of April 24, 2006 concerning the medical examination, we would like to inform you that the examination has to be performed in the country where the visa is issued. If the applicant chooses to have his visa case processed here in Frankfurt, he would be required to have the medical examination performed by one of our cleared panel physicians as listed below. The examination may be done prior to the applicant's appointment."
Notice that he didn't directly answer my question. There's still a logistical or, rather, an organizational problem. Does he mean prior to the interview stage or prior to the approval for the petition and subsequent application? I think he means that the examination can be done prior to the interview, which may well be while the petition is pending.
Some people choose not to take the medical examination before the interview or even while the petition is pending because they want to know that they'll actually receive the visa or receive application approval, barring that there are no problems with the medical examination. At least, that's what I think right now.
QUOTE(meauxna @ Apr 27 2006, 05:18 AM)
...
By way of an idle question.. she got it cleared to take the medical ahead of time, and it's with a panel doc?
...
uhhh ......
no ....
was she supposed to?
I found the list of panel physicians in Germany. The closest were Munich and Leipzig and when I called, both had no appointments before June.
The one in Frankfurt, however, takes walk-ins 7:30 - noon.
I have received no clearance for anything ... should I be worrying (as though I'm not)?
I called the expensive call center number - he had no idea, suggested I submit a K3 or something. Said he couldn't help me because the number was only for non-immigration visas.
We'll know more in about 27 hrs, 43 min. Not that I'm counting or anything.
zauberblume & Germlish,
The reason I asked is because of policy in *some* Consulates. In some countries, the applicant needs the letter from the Consulate with a case number or control number of some kind to get an appointment.
If you were very clear with the doc's office about what you are there for and they accepted your appointment, maybe there is no problem in Germany.
Do try to find out if they will give you the results, or they send them directly to the Consulate. Again, this varies by location. You should be able to find these experiences in the CR-1/IR-1 forum here---those visa applicants are going through all the same steps as you while still in Germany. Only their petition method and initial visa app docs are done differently (NVC).
We had planned to 'try' and figure out the vaccine requirements on our own and get the required shots ahead of time at a lower rate. We were told by the IV Unit to NOT do this but to wait for the Doc to do the exam.
This turned out to be good advice--I would've sent him for 3 shots and he only needed a tetnus booster. Info the doc uncovered in his exam overrode what we thought.
In Athens, we were required to have the Consulate's letter before booking the appointment. I know it is different elsewhere.
zauberblume: you can just reply back to the email, highlighting your question again. Their answer was totally vague but maybe some of what I wrote can help you underscore to them what your real question is: do we need a letter from the Consulate to go to the doctor's appt?
good luck guys!
The reason I asked is because of policy in *some* Consulates. In some countries, the applicant needs the letter from the Consulate with a case number or control number of some kind to get an appointment.
If you were very clear with the doc's office about what you are there for and they accepted your appointment, maybe there is no problem in Germany.
Do try to find out if they will give you the results, or they send them directly to the Consulate. Again, this varies by location. You should be able to find these experiences in the CR-1/IR-1 forum here---those visa applicants are going through all the same steps as you while still in Germany. Only their petition method and initial visa app docs are done differently (NVC).
We had planned to 'try' and figure out the vaccine requirements on our own and get the required shots ahead of time at a lower rate. We were told by the IV Unit to NOT do this but to wait for the Doc to do the exam.
This turned out to be good advice--I would've sent him for 3 shots and he only needed a tetnus booster. Info the doc uncovered in his exam overrode what we thought.
In Athens, we were required to have the Consulate's letter before booking the appointment. I know it is different elsewhere.
zauberblume: you can just reply back to the email, highlighting your question again. Their answer was totally vague but maybe some of what I wrote can help you underscore to them what your real question is: do we need a letter from the Consulate to go to the doctor's appt?
good luck guys!
http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.ph...opic=7357&st=75
In that post, CWR, who went through Germany, says: "In Germany, you don't even really have to have the case number.....just walk into the doctor's office in Frankfurt and tell them you need a medical for the US consulate. Also, in Germany you don't receive ANY medical forms in package 3.....you get them at the doctor's office and fill them out right there and then."
I think you may be okay, Germlish.
Either way, once I get a response from the Embassy, I'll post it just to confirm.
In that post, CWR, who went through Germany, says: "In Germany, you don't even really have to have the case number.....just walk into the doctor's office in Frankfurt and tell them you need a medical for the US consulate. Also, in Germany you don't receive ANY medical forms in package 3.....you get them at the doctor's office and fill them out right there and then."
I think you may be okay, Germlish.
Either way, once I get a response from the Embassy, I'll post it just to confirm.
QUOTE(meauxna @ Apr 26 2006, 06:32 PM)
QUOTE(Germlish @ Apr 26 2006, 01:08 PM)
Hi All
Lotsa good stuff here and a bit of my own to add.
Re: the translations;
This whole visa thing is two department process; US State Dept. and USCIS. The USCIS gets the I-130 and they have a normal number to call. I did just that today and asked him if my own translation of the divorec decree was ok, he said yes as long as I state that it is a true and accurate translation. (He didn't happen to mention that it wasn't necessary to translate at all if it's in German but by the way he answered, I can imagine they don't need any translation at all.)
I figured the difference between the two departments could have an affect on the language requirements; USCIS deals only with people wanting to come to the US, State dept deals with all things foreign so they should have translators and multi-lingual people on staff.
hiya Germ, good work!
To confirm/clarify about the agencies and translations:
In some Consulates, there is a USCIS Field Ofice and the I-130 is actually processed by them and passed over to the Immigrant Visa Unit, which is part of the State Dept.
Anything destined for USCIS must be in English or have an English translation.
Anything destined for the Consulate can be in English or the local language(s).
In a 'true' DCF case where the Consulate adjudicates the I-130, I'm not sure what the 'rule' would be, but I would be tempted to keep all things I-130 related in English or translated, and all things visa application related in English or the local language.
Frankfurt, London and Athens all have local USCIS offices, so anyone filing in those offices is not a 'true' DCF case even tho everything is filed abroad (hope that makes sense). You can find the other USCIS Field Offices here: http://www.uscis.gov/graphics/fieldoffices/worldmap.htm
I would suspect that your German language divorce cert must be translated for the I-130 submission.
Rome does as well.. don't forget Rome.. When doing DCF in Italy.. you have to file the I-130 in Rome.. but the interview is in Naples..
Hi All
After the Friday at the consulate we decided we needed a weekend away and we were off line until about a half hour ago.
Everything went fairly well, here some of my worries and unexpected problems:
- Arrival and overnight:
We arrived in Frankfurt and stayed at the Friedberger Warte Hotel. I had checked hrs.com for prices and they quoted me around 220 - congress-price. A direct call to the hotel got us a rate of 119, and without the congress-pricing HRS is now quoting 86. Check on prices before you plan. The hotel is fairly new, clean and serves a decent breakfast at 6:30am.
The consulate is located on the grounds of the old military hospital in frankfurt, so anyone that wants to Google-Earth it, look for the buildings with red crosses on them. The hotel is behind the hospital complex but in Google-earth it is still a sand pit.
The hotel is directly behind the grounds, and it takes 4-5 minutes to walk, depending on how urgent it is.
Cell phones were a problem for everyone. The U-bahn stop where you can deposit them is at least as far away as the hotel and it is a pain to have to leave the line to walk so far. We also saw someone toss his cell-phone over the wall into the graveyard across the street saying he'd go fish for it later - risky but not a bad solution.
Car keys with electronic transmitters are also difficult but they will let you deposit them there. My wife also had a perfume bottle taken.
- The Dr. visit
... was no problem. We had called ahead and they recommended arriving early for opening at 7:30 am. On arrival in Frankfurt late Thursday evening we punched the Dr.s address into the navi and drove there. Even at 11pm it was a complicated drive so we decided to leave it to a taxi. She left just before 7 am from the hotel to the Dr. (taxi cost 12) while I went to the consulate.
She had checked with her GP the previous day and he donated a MMR (measles, mumps & rubella) to the cause stating that the tetanus shot wasn't due till next year. The panel physician in Frankfurt gave her the D&T shot anyway, charged her 125 for the exam, 22 for the shot, and sent her on her way.
Not having a registration number with the consulate was no problem, neither for the Dr. nor for the nice lady at window ## in the consulate. It all goes by last name so as soon as the Dr.s report arrives she (being responsible for our last name) will receive it. Point here is that you can go to the medical exam whenever you want - of course within the time frame limits.
The consulate visit, part 1,
could have been smoother.
It started with the wait outside. Arrival at about 7:05 put me about 16th in line, and a wait of about 25 minutes. Just before 7:30, the man came out and explained about the cell phones, then split us up into citizen services and non-citizen services. Both of the two lines fed into the same window but I think they want to have a good mix of requested services when people go into the building.
At the window we got numbers which start with a letter. The letter designates your destination in the building and for the USCIS, go upstairs. Don't lose or let go of that number - it is your place in line and they are very tightly controlled - more later.
After the number aquisitνtion phase, the line moves to the actual security checkpoint. After security, the consular services are in a different building , and there are the stairs for the USCIS.
USCIS didn't arrive until 8 and that was about a fifteen minute wait since the main entrance line moves fairly quickly.
I was second in line for the USCIS and my I-130 submission. I had intentionally left everything unsigned and dated as these were quick steps and I wanted to finalize everything in front of the USCIS guy, but it turned out that my wifes biographical (G-325) was missing her signature - and she was off getting medical examined.
USCIS reviewed the I-130 submission, and I watched as he reviewed the translations. He didn't say so, but I watched him compare the translations to the originals, and I am sure he was accuracy checking them. Whatever he did, he made no comment and accepted them so I was happy. Another couple who lives not too far from the consulate reported that their petition had initially been returned because there were no translations. I think the correct answer here is to get everything translated - yourself, your spouse, neighbor, etc doesn't matter, just make sure it's right. The USCIS field office in Frankfurt may not need the translation, but they probably forward it to someone somewhere who is not as multilingual.
The consulate visit, part two,
was also not as unproblematic as I hoped, either. I left the consulate to wait for my wife outsied. As she arrived from the Drs. Office (she found a ride with someone else coming from exam to consulate so saved taxi cost), she still had her mobile phone. After a ten minute jog to the hotel and back where the car was parked, we went through a much shorter line than this morning when I initially waited, got a new number and went inside.
The new number had the same letter but was of course later. I just gave the papers to the USCIS guy between other numbers and explained to him about my second number. He had to fiddle around with his number machine, and the whole double number thing just caused plain confusion.
He sent me downstairs to the State Department visa people and we submitted the DS 230.
There was one problem
with the rest of the package. The Affidavit of Support did not contain my tax return. I have always assumed that a tax return is not necessary if no taxes are owed so I did not file a return this year. Nice lady at the window said it was necessary so now I need to stop such a long post and get the return done.
She also said no problem on the med exam or any of the other paperwork. As soon as I get the return my wife will be scheduled for an appointment. Current waiting time for the interview appointments is about 4 weeks so I don't know if we can meet the June 1 goal but we will see.
Epilogue
The "DCF" must be the fastest method to get this done. I think this is because this is the only situation where the State Department and USCIS are co-located. My understanding of the process is that USCIS has the final say as to who can be admitted or not, but before they admit someone, State Department has the responsibility of investigating the applicant and reporting to USCIS on the "quality". A visa will not guarantee entry because it comes from DS. If USCIS says no anyway, then the answer is no (pending appeals, of course)
I think the speed here comes in that USCIS and DS are almost coworkers in Frankfurt (and other USCIS field office locations) and the documents are passed within the same building. No need for anything to go to the National Visa Center or any of the other myriad of steps it needs to travel between USCIS-DS-Source Country consulate.
I'd also like to comment that the Frankfurt consulate appears to be fairly well organized. The waiting times were within reason, and I think anyone arriving with a bit of patience will be treated well and have no problem getting things done.
The building itself is fairly new, the systems are modern enough and the staff is large enough to handle appropriate workloads.
They DO have machines for stamps, change, coffee, cold drinks and snacks. A pay phone is also available for mobile phone addicts but warning here: put in lots and lots of Euros if you want to call to a mobile phone. For 3 I was not able to say that I needed her here soon to sign the documents.
All in all not a horrible experience. Now let's go do some IRS paperwork.
After the Friday at the consulate we decided we needed a weekend away and we were off line until about a half hour ago.
Everything went fairly well, here some of my worries and unexpected problems:
- Arrival and overnight:
We arrived in Frankfurt and stayed at the Friedberger Warte Hotel. I had checked hrs.com for prices and they quoted me around 220 - congress-price. A direct call to the hotel got us a rate of 119, and without the congress-pricing HRS is now quoting 86. Check on prices before you plan. The hotel is fairly new, clean and serves a decent breakfast at 6:30am.
The consulate is located on the grounds of the old military hospital in frankfurt, so anyone that wants to Google-Earth it, look for the buildings with red crosses on them. The hotel is behind the hospital complex but in Google-earth it is still a sand pit.
The hotel is directly behind the grounds, and it takes 4-5 minutes to walk, depending on how urgent it is.
Cell phones were a problem for everyone. The U-bahn stop where you can deposit them is at least as far away as the hotel and it is a pain to have to leave the line to walk so far. We also saw someone toss his cell-phone over the wall into the graveyard across the street saying he'd go fish for it later - risky but not a bad solution.
Car keys with electronic transmitters are also difficult but they will let you deposit them there. My wife also had a perfume bottle taken.
- The Dr. visit
QUOTE
In some countries, the applicant needs the letter from the Consulate with a case number or control number of some kind to get an appointment.
... was no problem. We had called ahead and they recommended arriving early for opening at 7:30 am. On arrival in Frankfurt late Thursday evening we punched the Dr.s address into the navi and drove there. Even at 11pm it was a complicated drive so we decided to leave it to a taxi. She left just before 7 am from the hotel to the Dr. (taxi cost 12) while I went to the consulate.
She had checked with her GP the previous day and he donated a MMR (measles, mumps & rubella) to the cause stating that the tetanus shot wasn't due till next year. The panel physician in Frankfurt gave her the D&T shot anyway, charged her 125 for the exam, 22 for the shot, and sent her on her way.
Not having a registration number with the consulate was no problem, neither for the Dr. nor for the nice lady at window ## in the consulate. It all goes by last name so as soon as the Dr.s report arrives she (being responsible for our last name) will receive it. Point here is that you can go to the medical exam whenever you want - of course within the time frame limits.
The consulate visit, part 1,
could have been smoother.
It started with the wait outside. Arrival at about 7:05 put me about 16th in line, and a wait of about 25 minutes. Just before 7:30, the man came out and explained about the cell phones, then split us up into citizen services and non-citizen services. Both of the two lines fed into the same window but I think they want to have a good mix of requested services when people go into the building.
At the window we got numbers which start with a letter. The letter designates your destination in the building and for the USCIS, go upstairs. Don't lose or let go of that number - it is your place in line and they are very tightly controlled - more later.
After the number aquisitνtion phase, the line moves to the actual security checkpoint. After security, the consular services are in a different building , and there are the stairs for the USCIS.
USCIS didn't arrive until 8 and that was about a fifteen minute wait since the main entrance line moves fairly quickly.
I was second in line for the USCIS and my I-130 submission. I had intentionally left everything unsigned and dated as these were quick steps and I wanted to finalize everything in front of the USCIS guy, but it turned out that my wifes biographical (G-325) was missing her signature - and she was off getting medical examined.
QUOTE
To confirm/clarify about the agencies and translations:
In some Consulates, there is a USCIS Field Ofice and the I-130 is actually processed by them and passed over to the Immigrant Visa Unit, which is part of the State Dept.
Anything destined for USCIS must be in English or have an English translation.
Anything destined for the Consulate can be in English or the local language(s).
In some Consulates, there is a USCIS Field Ofice and the I-130 is actually processed by them and passed over to the Immigrant Visa Unit, which is part of the State Dept.
Anything destined for USCIS must be in English or have an English translation.
Anything destined for the Consulate can be in English or the local language(s).
USCIS reviewed the I-130 submission, and I watched as he reviewed the translations. He didn't say so, but I watched him compare the translations to the originals, and I am sure he was accuracy checking them. Whatever he did, he made no comment and accepted them so I was happy. Another couple who lives not too far from the consulate reported that their petition had initially been returned because there were no translations. I think the correct answer here is to get everything translated - yourself, your spouse, neighbor, etc doesn't matter, just make sure it's right. The USCIS field office in Frankfurt may not need the translation, but they probably forward it to someone somewhere who is not as multilingual.
The consulate visit, part two,
was also not as unproblematic as I hoped, either. I left the consulate to wait for my wife outsied. As she arrived from the Drs. Office (she found a ride with someone else coming from exam to consulate so saved taxi cost), she still had her mobile phone. After a ten minute jog to the hotel and back where the car was parked, we went through a much shorter line than this morning when I initially waited, got a new number and went inside.
The new number had the same letter but was of course later. I just gave the papers to the USCIS guy between other numbers and explained to him about my second number. He had to fiddle around with his number machine, and the whole double number thing just caused plain confusion.
He sent me downstairs to the State Department visa people and we submitted the DS 230.
There was one problem
with the rest of the package. The Affidavit of Support did not contain my tax return. I have always assumed that a tax return is not necessary if no taxes are owed so I did not file a return this year. Nice lady at the window said it was necessary so now I need to stop such a long post and get the return done.
She also said no problem on the med exam or any of the other paperwork. As soon as I get the return my wife will be scheduled for an appointment. Current waiting time for the interview appointments is about 4 weeks so I don't know if we can meet the June 1 goal but we will see.
Epilogue
The "DCF" must be the fastest method to get this done. I think this is because this is the only situation where the State Department and USCIS are co-located. My understanding of the process is that USCIS has the final say as to who can be admitted or not, but before they admit someone, State Department has the responsibility of investigating the applicant and reporting to USCIS on the "quality". A visa will not guarantee entry because it comes from DS. If USCIS says no anyway, then the answer is no (pending appeals, of course)
I think the speed here comes in that USCIS and DS are almost coworkers in Frankfurt (and other USCIS field office locations) and the documents are passed within the same building. No need for anything to go to the National Visa Center or any of the other myriad of steps it needs to travel between USCIS-DS-Source Country consulate.
I'd also like to comment that the Frankfurt consulate appears to be fairly well organized. The waiting times were within reason, and I think anyone arriving with a bit of patience will be treated well and have no problem getting things done.
The building itself is fairly new, the systems are modern enough and the staff is large enough to handle appropriate workloads.
They DO have machines for stamps, change, coffee, cold drinks and snacks. A pay phone is also available for mobile phone addicts but warning here: put in lots and lots of Euros if you want to call to a mobile phone. For 3 I was not able to say that I needed her here soon to sign the documents.
All in all not a horrible experience. Now let's go do some IRS paperwork.
Thank you for posting such a comprehensive report Germlish, it is really useful for those of us yet to attend at Frankfurt, especially the location, hotel and cellphone informations.
I hope you get your interview date quickly!
I hope you get your interview date quickly!
Great and thorough report, G! Congrats on your first steps---the rest will go quickly and easily, I'm sure.
It looks like you will be very close to your deadline, and the Consulate may even work with you on that if you ask nicely
It looks like you will be very close to your deadline, and the Consulate may even work with you on that if you ask nicely
The official letter came in from the consulate today; appointment on 31 May at 08:00.
There is also an additional request for her to bring her two sons' birth certificates even though they are not immigrating with her.
Heck, we're moving out because they won't :-).
I'll put the details up at the latest after the interview day.
There is also an additional request for her to bring her two sons' birth certificates even though they are not immigrating with her.
Heck, we're moving out because they won't :-).
I'll put the details up at the latest after the interview day.
Man, did I call it, or *what*? 
"It looks like you will be very close to your deadline"
Congrats if you're happy with that date, get on the phone if you're not!
"It looks like you will be very close to your deadline"
Congrats if you're happy with that date, get on the phone if you're not!
Response from Frankfurt about medical examination:
Thank your e-mail. As the medical examination is only valid from 6-12 months we suggest that you schedule the medical appointment after filing the petition if you are certain that you expect to soon immigrate. Most panel physicians require a case number. So if you appear at the USCIS office in Frankfurt to file the petition, then request a case number from our Window 23.
I hope this information is helpful to you.
Sincerely,
Correspondence and Information Unit
U.S. Consulate General
Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Thank, Germlish, for your re-capping your Embassy experience. Good luck with your interview in ten days! Seems like going in person is the best way to go. I'm still waiting for my I-130 to be approved.
Thank your e-mail. As the medical examination is only valid from 6-12 months we suggest that you schedule the medical appointment after filing the petition if you are certain that you expect to soon immigrate. Most panel physicians require a case number. So if you appear at the USCIS office in Frankfurt to file the petition, then request a case number from our Window 23.
I hope this information is helpful to you.
Sincerely,
Correspondence and Information Unit
U.S. Consulate General
Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Thank, Germlish, for your re-capping your Embassy experience. Good luck with your interview in ten days! Seems like going in person is the best way to go. I'm still waiting for my I-130 to be approved.
Another question:
After perusing some timelines, I'm wondering if there is a bit of a backlog at the US Embassy in Frankfurt right now. Maybe World Cup is causing some problems? Most mailed-in I-130 petitions have been approved in 7 to 14 days.
I resubmitted my I-130 on April 24. Payment was registered on May 4, according to my credit card statement. I still haven't received a response. Should I email or call the consulate this week? Perhaps Packet 3 was lost in the mail?
Also, can I just send in the checklist now even though the I-130 petition is pending? I mean, I'm confident that it should be approved unless they don't like my residency permit, which is a student visa. But I've been here since Dec. 2004 and the visa doesn't expire until Dec. 2007 so I think I should be approved.
I'm kind of anxious that we actually won't meet our first deadline of late June to return to the U.S. (Considering when other interviews have been scheduled over at the IR/CR forum, I'm not even sure if we will meet our second deadline of mid-August.)
What's taking so long?! (Candace, your original petition was returned to you on May 13, about two weeks after your second submission. Why did it take so long to return it to you?)
(Trust me, I understand that people have been waiting much longer who don't have the privilege of doing direct filing. In this case, I can and am using this method. Therefore, according to timelines for those who have used this method, I'm wondering what's taking so long.)
After perusing some timelines, I'm wondering if there is a bit of a backlog at the US Embassy in Frankfurt right now. Maybe World Cup is causing some problems? Most mailed-in I-130 petitions have been approved in 7 to 14 days.
I resubmitted my I-130 on April 24. Payment was registered on May 4, according to my credit card statement. I still haven't received a response. Should I email or call the consulate this week? Perhaps Packet 3 was lost in the mail?
Also, can I just send in the checklist now even though the I-130 petition is pending? I mean, I'm confident that it should be approved unless they don't like my residency permit, which is a student visa. But I've been here since Dec. 2004 and the visa doesn't expire until Dec. 2007 so I think I should be approved.
I'm kind of anxious that we actually won't meet our first deadline of late June to return to the U.S. (Considering when other interviews have been scheduled over at the IR/CR forum, I'm not even sure if we will meet our second deadline of mid-August.)
What's taking so long?! (Candace, your original petition was returned to you on May 13, about two weeks after your second submission. Why did it take so long to return it to you?)
(Trust me, I understand that people have been waiting much longer who don't have the privilege of doing direct filing. In this case, I can and am using this method. Therefore, according to timelines for those who have used this method, I'm wondering what's taking so long.)
Zauberblume, it seems like things are taking a long time, and I'm pretty sure they don't have a problem with your residency permit. They could process anyone they want - their discretion - but the restrict it to people with residnecy permits in Germany, and you have one (did you send a copy of the Aufenthaltserlaubnis from your passport???)
As it turns out, the collegue replacing me will need additional training and support, and my household goods (which were picked up last Tuesday by Brauns Umzug Moving) will not arrive before 21 June so 31 May is ok.
The lady at window x said that the interview appointments need about 4 weeks. I got the impression that this has more to do with normal summer load and vacations in the consulate.
I would recommend first calling and then going to the consulate (depending on the call results). They have a 0900 number which is useless - only appropriate for non-immigrant visas. Use the 069 number and ask for USCIS. I think they are currently open Mon, Wed & Fri 8-12 so go down on one of those days, and arrive by 7 am ( they open doors at 7:30).
I've seen this written here before and I can confirm it in my situation also. If I had not been at the consulate in person, things would have been much more difficult and time consuming. As you already saw, the payment problem is a good example. I suspect that they process people that are there first, then they look at the stuff that came in the mail. Any problems and it is returned via mail and that goes so slowly.
Couple of points that makes this clear:
- USCIS who is responsible for the I-130, and the consulate - who are responsible for the DS-230 - are actually two different bodies, run from two different parts of the government. In Frankfurt we have the happy situation that they happen to be colocated in the same building, a situation that probably exists nowhere within the US, and fairly rarely even outside the US.
As I understand it, the USCIS has final say as to who gets in and who doesnt, whereas Dept of State defines politically who can come in and who can't.
Since they are in the same building, getting the I-130 "downstairs" to State is fairly easy and fast.
If you are also in the building at the same time, they have that much more impetus to do things right.
We went to Frankfurt, I submitted the I-130 while my spouse was getting med examined. She came to the consulate from the Drs. office by the time the I-130 was completed, and we submitted package 1 on the same day.
We will have to return to the consulate for the interview, but just being there the first day really saved us time as far as little mistakes and minor stuff.
We went the evening before and spent 119 on the Hotel Frankenwart. If cost is an issue, you could try an all night train ride, sleep in the car, etc (maybe a rental station wagon?) Either way, I would find a way down there.
Bring everything you think you will ever need for everything. I scanned all my documents, put them on a notebook hard drive, and took notebook, scanner and printer with me. This was unnecessary but just shows the level of preparedness I went to. I could have reprinted any document in full color, had it been necessary (from my car of course with a 12V => 220V converter, because no electronic devices are allowed in the bldg).
Few points:
- Translations from German are not required except for court documents; divorce documents, criminal records, etc.
- If translations are necessary and your German is good enough, translate it yourself and put a statement that your German is good enough to translate this document.
- Bring all orignals and copies of everything. If you still need copies, there is a 0.50 copy machine in the waiting area, and a change machine.
- Make sure the photos are good. There is also a photo machine in the waiting area but even then, make sure both ears are visible and no glasses. (Google for the photo specs, they are fairly specific)
- Spouse can go to Dr on same day. They were a bit confused by the missing number, but they said no problem and that they would forward the results to the consulate. The Frankfurt panel physician is the only one in Germany that accepts applicants with no appointment, Munich and Leipzig both had about a one month wait. Again, early arrival will make the day faster.
Taxi from consulate to Dr. about 12, parking is difficult and finding it even with navi is not very easy.
- The visa arrives a few days after the interview in the mail (I think you need to leave your passport there). I saw somewhere that this is because the med exam results need to come back first. I'm hoping our early exam will mean the results are in and we can take the visa with us after the interview.
Hope this wasn't too much info. Besides preparing, preparing, and preparing, calling and visiting the consulate is the best way to be sure it works out.
Good luck!
As it turns out, the collegue replacing me will need additional training and support, and my household goods (which were picked up last Tuesday by Brauns Umzug Moving) will not arrive before 21 June so 31 May is ok.
The lady at window x said that the interview appointments need about 4 weeks. I got the impression that this has more to do with normal summer load and vacations in the consulate.
I would recommend first calling and then going to the consulate (depending on the call results). They have a 0900 number which is useless - only appropriate for non-immigrant visas. Use the 069 number and ask for USCIS. I think they are currently open Mon, Wed & Fri 8-12 so go down on one of those days, and arrive by 7 am ( they open doors at 7:30).
I've seen this written here before and I can confirm it in my situation also. If I had not been at the consulate in person, things would have been much more difficult and time consuming. As you already saw, the payment problem is a good example. I suspect that they process people that are there first, then they look at the stuff that came in the mail. Any problems and it is returned via mail and that goes so slowly.
Couple of points that makes this clear:
- USCIS who is responsible for the I-130, and the consulate - who are responsible for the DS-230 - are actually two different bodies, run from two different parts of the government. In Frankfurt we have the happy situation that they happen to be colocated in the same building, a situation that probably exists nowhere within the US, and fairly rarely even outside the US.
As I understand it, the USCIS has final say as to who gets in and who doesnt, whereas Dept of State defines politically who can come in and who can't.
Since they are in the same building, getting the I-130 "downstairs" to State is fairly easy and fast.
If you are also in the building at the same time, they have that much more impetus to do things right.
We went to Frankfurt, I submitted the I-130 while my spouse was getting med examined. She came to the consulate from the Drs. office by the time the I-130 was completed, and we submitted package 1 on the same day.
We will have to return to the consulate for the interview, but just being there the first day really saved us time as far as little mistakes and minor stuff.
We went the evening before and spent 119 on the Hotel Frankenwart. If cost is an issue, you could try an all night train ride, sleep in the car, etc (maybe a rental station wagon?) Either way, I would find a way down there.
Bring everything you think you will ever need for everything. I scanned all my documents, put them on a notebook hard drive, and took notebook, scanner and printer with me. This was unnecessary but just shows the level of preparedness I went to. I could have reprinted any document in full color, had it been necessary (from my car of course with a 12V => 220V converter, because no electronic devices are allowed in the bldg).
Few points:
- Translations from German are not required except for court documents; divorce documents, criminal records, etc.
- If translations are necessary and your German is good enough, translate it yourself and put a statement that your German is good enough to translate this document.
- Bring all orignals and copies of everything. If you still need copies, there is a 0.50 copy machine in the waiting area, and a change machine.
- Make sure the photos are good. There is also a photo machine in the waiting area but even then, make sure both ears are visible and no glasses. (Google for the photo specs, they are fairly specific)
- Spouse can go to Dr on same day. They were a bit confused by the missing number, but they said no problem and that they would forward the results to the consulate. The Frankfurt panel physician is the only one in Germany that accepts applicants with no appointment, Munich and Leipzig both had about a one month wait. Again, early arrival will make the day faster.
Taxi from consulate to Dr. about 12, parking is difficult and finding it even with navi is not very easy.
- The visa arrives a few days after the interview in the mail (I think you need to leave your passport there). I saw somewhere that this is because the med exam results need to come back first. I'm hoping our early exam will mean the results are in and we can take the visa with us after the interview.
Hope this wasn't too much info. Besides preparing, preparing, and preparing, calling and visiting the consulate is the best way to be sure it works out.
Good luck!
QUOTE(Germlish @ May 21 2006, 12:28 PM)
- The visa arrives a few days after the interview in the mail (I think you need to leave your passport there). I saw somewhere that this is because the med exam results need to come back first. I'm hoping our early exam will mean the results are in and we can take the visa with us after the interview.
No, that won't happen. The reason the passport stays at the consulate is because they need to print the visa after approving it and that's what takes a few days.
Also, I found the easiest and cheapest way to get around Frankfurt was public transport (U5 stops about 200 m from the consulate and also stops close to the Dr.'s office). Parking is a real hassle in most German cities...
Good luck to all of you!
QUOTE(zauberblume @ May 21 2006, 08:12 AM)
(Candace, your original petition was returned to you on May 13, about two weeks after your second submission. Why did it take so long to return it to you?)
I can work in a couple of extra days as I post my (lots of!) submissions via the US Military postal service. So it's two or three days rather than just one for the packets to get there. USCIS just return them by ordinary mail to my German address, so that shouldn't take any longer. I'm expecting the next one back in...oh, a week or so
I'm lucky in that I'm not in a hurry for my visa; we aren't scheduled to leave Germany until end March '07 and it's possible we may have an extension to beginning December '07. If that is the case, I'll be entering the US have my visa stamped and coming back again. Although the way things are going for me it might be close to get it in time!!
If I were in a hurry, I'd be going to Frankfurt. I agree with Germlish that it looks like mailed petitions are dealt with a lot slower than those submitted in person (and rightly so, although I do think they should point this out for people who need to know.)
Germlish - a question - does the Hotel Frankenwart have parking at the hotel for guests?
QUOTE(Candace @ May 22 2006, 07:37 AM)
- a question - does the Hotel Frankenwart have parking at the hotel for guests?
Yep. I had to run to the car twice and while the hotel is across the street from the back of the consulate, it is probably a hundred funny units (meters) to get around to the front.
Parking is also not a problem in front of the consulate if you arrive early - like 3 am. We actually saw people sleeping in their car while others were lining up. Wonder when they finally woke up?
But I do agree with Fisch - if you can get there with public transportation, do it. You can store your handys with the kisok at the U-Bahn stop but 200 Meters gets fairly far when you have to run back and forth so do it when you get off the Bahn.
Thanks also Fisch for the info re: passport stamp. I figured I wouldn't beat the system but what the heck.
Thanks Germlish and Candace!
I did submit a copy of my Aufenthaltserlaubnis.
I called USCIS to inquire about my petition. The fees were assessed on May 4. It was registered in the computer on May 13. According to the representative I spoke to, it will take an additional three weeks before a decision is made. If the petition is approved, it will then be sent to the Consulate who will mail "Packet 3."
Going to the Consulate now will do nothing since my petition has already been filed and is pending. All I can do is wait... At this point, I can only hope that my husband will be able to come to the U.S. with me for about two weeks as we look for apartments. I am worried about him possibly being denied entry at the POE, which is why my first deadline was in late June. But I definitely have to be back in America by the end of August since that is when my PhD program begins.
As I said before, I would've gone to the Consulate in person to file my petition but I had no idea that it would take almost two months to adjudicate it. Looking at various profiles posted on some forums, all mailed-in I-130s that I saw were processed and approved within two weeks. Nothing that I saw said that it would take two or even three months. I might as well have started earlier and filed in the US b/c I'm with my husband anyway. No separation to worry about.
Unfortunately, petitions are not being approved at this speed anymore via mail. Who knows why?! Maybe there are too many walk-ins and just too much going on, in which case I would encourage everyone to go in person even if you live far away just so there are no mix ups and so it is all taken care of rather quickly. Anyway, it's too late for me to do anything but wait...
Also, the Consulate said that I could not send in the DS-230 or the checklist now. It would only be sent back to me since the I-130 has not been approved yet.
(Just in case anyway comes across that question in their own process...)
I did submit a copy of my Aufenthaltserlaubnis.
I called USCIS to inquire about my petition. The fees were assessed on May 4. It was registered in the computer on May 13. According to the representative I spoke to, it will take an additional three weeks before a decision is made. If the petition is approved, it will then be sent to the Consulate who will mail "Packet 3."
Going to the Consulate now will do nothing since my petition has already been filed and is pending. All I can do is wait... At this point, I can only hope that my husband will be able to come to the U.S. with me for about two weeks as we look for apartments. I am worried about him possibly being denied entry at the POE, which is why my first deadline was in late June. But I definitely have to be back in America by the end of August since that is when my PhD program begins.
As I said before, I would've gone to the Consulate in person to file my petition but I had no idea that it would take almost two months to adjudicate it. Looking at various profiles posted on some forums, all mailed-in I-130s that I saw were processed and approved within two weeks. Nothing that I saw said that it would take two or even three months. I might as well have started earlier and filed in the US b/c I'm with my husband anyway. No separation to worry about.
Unfortunately, petitions are not being approved at this speed anymore via mail. Who knows why?! Maybe there are too many walk-ins and just too much going on, in which case I would encourage everyone to go in person even if you live far away just so there are no mix ups and so it is all taken care of rather quickly. Anyway, it's too late for me to do anything but wait...
Also, the Consulate said that I could not send in the DS-230 or the checklist now. It would only be sent back to me since the I-130 has not been approved yet.
(Just in case anyway comes across that question in their own process...)
QUOTE(zauberblume @ May 24 2006, 04:03 PM)
... it will take an additional three weeks before a decision is made. ...
Wow, that's a long time. Ours took about 10 minutes - at least I had the impression that the decision had been made while I was standing there and the petition was being reviewed.
And you asked if there was any to way to speed things up?
The only other option then is for your husband to go with you on a tourist visa waiver. He has to return to Germany anyway for the interview but from everything else I've read in the forums, don't even think he can just stay there - could be a reason for them to deny his visa.
Maybe something will happen that things will speed up.
Crossing my fingers and biting my thumbs :-)
The big day has come and gone, the second trip (interview trip) has been completed.
To end the suspense, we walked out with the confirmation that we have successfully completed the required steps and her visa will be mailed to us - probably before I leave the country on 17 June !!!
Brief Description:
On this second visit, the appointment visit, there were four basic visits to the windows:
1. Pay the cashier
They asked for our invitation and used it to link the payment to our name.
2. "Pre-submission"
When our number was first called, the DS-230 part II, photo, and receipt were collected, and we were given the return envelope for our visa for us to address and attach stamps. Minor details on the three documents were corrected.
3. Paperwork inspection and explanation
Here the complete submission was reviewed, our originals were inspected and compared with the copies we had submitted (originals were then returned), and our envelope was collected. The rest of the process was also explained.
4. Interview
Here was the consul. We raised our right hands, swore we wouldn't lie, and my wife (the applicant) was fingerprinted. The consul asked us some questions like how old she was, how many children, simple stuff.
He then let us know we were approved and that we would receive her passport and a sealed envelope in the German mail.
And now the gory details.
Situation: Which of two lines outside the console do we use?
I slightly misunderstood the purpose of the two lines in front of the building in Frankfurt: The long, left side is for non-citizen, non-immigrant visa stuff. The shorter right side is for citizen services AND immigrant visas. We waited in the left line and lost some time because of this.
Suggestion: For immigrant visas and citizen services, go early in the AM and go directly to the right hand side of the line chain.
Situation: what does the security check involve?
We arrived at about 7:05, waited in line, had a handout where everything was spelled out, we were also briefed by someone while we were waiting, and again when at the window for the number but still lots of people got kicked back because they wanted to take a cell phone into the building. The only things they will allow with batteries in them are watches and car keys. Nothing else period!
Suggestion: Make certain you arrive without a mobile phone, radio, mp3 player, calculator. You will not get in with it.
Situation: What to do inside the building?
The very first order of business on the second visit is to pay. Go as quickly as possible and immediately to the cashier - don't wait to be called - and I would recommend to bring cash. The fee was 175 or equiv US dollar and they do - in principle - accept credit cards. BUT: Today a hand scribbled sign appeared behind the window "Credit Card Machine Broken". This meant for almost everyone; collecting a red "don't stand in line again" pass from the cashier, leave the building, walk about 10-15 minutes [or drive and lose a precious parking space] to the Aral gas station where the nearest cash machine is located, get cash and return.
This also changes the order in which the numbers are processed. We had 809, but got the interview after 810.
Suggestion: Bring cash and run to the cashier with your appointment invitation available as first step.
Situation: What kind of paperwork and documentation problems did we have?
At the "pre-submission" window, the photo which I had worked on so long (and which was ok for the I-130) failed and we had to make another one at the machine in the lobby. She had very small earrings and about three hairs slightly covered one ear.
Suggestion: Get the photos looked at by the downstairs windows during the I-130 visit. Pay special attention to making the ears and entire face visible, no glasses even if you always wear them, no jewlery even though you always DO wear it, (wonder what about implants?) and make sure the dimensions and sizes are correct. Or just do it at the machine in the lobby (5, change machine is available).
Situation: What kind of paperwork and documentation problems did we have part two?
During the I-130 visit, the I-864 Affidavit Of Support didn't have any US tax return. Big bozo-nono. The form states three are required but the requirement has changed to only the most recent return. Also, the form does not need to be notarized anymore, just signed and dated.
Suggestion: File taxes online and include the return with the I-864 Affidavit Of Support
Situation: What kind of paperwork and documentation problems did we have, part three?
Everything else was ok, just wanted to mention to bring the originals with you!!!
Suggestion: Don't forget to bring the originals with you.
Situation: How long did it take and what should we have brought with us?
We spent about 4 hours altogether in the compound. Once the interviews started they seemed to roll in about 15-17 minute cycles. If you know your position in line, you can estimate how much time you have till the interview is due. We did confront some boredom and they do have snack machines with chips and candy but I would have been happier had I prepared with a magazine and a decent sandwich.
Suggestion: Bring an inkpen for making the inevitable corrections to the forms, bring something to read and something to eat (and something for the kids to do if kids are present) for a three to six hour time period and make sure all these somethings don't have batteries (especially the kids).
Situation: So how much did this all cost?
The I-130 and DS-230 were the biggest chunks at $190 and 175 respectively. We also had to pay for things like the a new passport, my birth certificates, copies (lots of copies) translations (into German) etc. The next category includes things like rental cars, train, fuel or travel fares, and hotel costs.
I'll probably eventually do a complete breakdown but the rough costs were
- for all the beauracies, fees, German and US: $1056 or 825 at 1.28 exchange rate.
- Travel costs: 440
- plus copies, paper, ink for the printer, photos, other various odds and ends.
Suggestion: Bring lots of money and have more ready. For those on a shoestring, use cheap travel modes, find cheap copy machines, use the internet to get information.
I hope this helps relieve some of the stress I went through. There are lots of things that could have gone bad and it could have cost us lots of time, money and grief but with preparation everything was ok.
Last thoughts:
Start early and go to the consulate instead of doing things by mail.
Good luck all!
To end the suspense, we walked out with the confirmation that we have successfully completed the required steps and her visa will be mailed to us - probably before I leave the country on 17 June !!!
Brief Description:
On this second visit, the appointment visit, there were four basic visits to the windows:
1. Pay the cashier
They asked for our invitation and used it to link the payment to our name.
2. "Pre-submission"
When our number was first called, the DS-230 part II, photo, and receipt were collected, and we were given the return envelope for our visa for us to address and attach stamps. Minor details on the three documents were corrected.
3. Paperwork inspection and explanation
Here the complete submission was reviewed, our originals were inspected and compared with the copies we had submitted (originals were then returned), and our envelope was collected. The rest of the process was also explained.
4. Interview
Here was the consul. We raised our right hands, swore we wouldn't lie, and my wife (the applicant) was fingerprinted. The consul asked us some questions like how old she was, how many children, simple stuff.
He then let us know we were approved and that we would receive her passport and a sealed envelope in the German mail.
And now the gory details.
Situation: Which of two lines outside the console do we use?
I slightly misunderstood the purpose of the two lines in front of the building in Frankfurt: The long, left side is for non-citizen, non-immigrant visa stuff. The shorter right side is for citizen services AND immigrant visas. We waited in the left line and lost some time because of this.
Suggestion: For immigrant visas and citizen services, go early in the AM and go directly to the right hand side of the line chain.
Situation: what does the security check involve?
We arrived at about 7:05, waited in line, had a handout where everything was spelled out, we were also briefed by someone while we were waiting, and again when at the window for the number but still lots of people got kicked back because they wanted to take a cell phone into the building. The only things they will allow with batteries in them are watches and car keys. Nothing else period!
Suggestion: Make certain you arrive without a mobile phone, radio, mp3 player, calculator. You will not get in with it.
Situation: What to do inside the building?
The very first order of business on the second visit is to pay. Go as quickly as possible and immediately to the cashier - don't wait to be called - and I would recommend to bring cash. The fee was 175 or equiv US dollar and they do - in principle - accept credit cards. BUT: Today a hand scribbled sign appeared behind the window "Credit Card Machine Broken". This meant for almost everyone; collecting a red "don't stand in line again" pass from the cashier, leave the building, walk about 10-15 minutes [or drive and lose a precious parking space] to the Aral gas station where the nearest cash machine is located, get cash and return.
This also changes the order in which the numbers are processed. We had 809, but got the interview after 810.
Suggestion: Bring cash and run to the cashier with your appointment invitation available as first step.
Situation: What kind of paperwork and documentation problems did we have?
At the "pre-submission" window, the photo which I had worked on so long (and which was ok for the I-130) failed and we had to make another one at the machine in the lobby. She had very small earrings and about three hairs slightly covered one ear.
Suggestion: Get the photos looked at by the downstairs windows during the I-130 visit. Pay special attention to making the ears and entire face visible, no glasses even if you always wear them, no jewlery even though you always DO wear it, (wonder what about implants?) and make sure the dimensions and sizes are correct. Or just do it at the machine in the lobby (5, change machine is available).
Situation: What kind of paperwork and documentation problems did we have part two?
During the I-130 visit, the I-864 Affidavit Of Support didn't have any US tax return. Big bozo-nono. The form states three are required but the requirement has changed to only the most recent return. Also, the form does not need to be notarized anymore, just signed and dated.
Suggestion: File taxes online and include the return with the I-864 Affidavit Of Support
Situation: What kind of paperwork and documentation problems did we have, part three?
Everything else was ok, just wanted to mention to bring the originals with you!!!
Suggestion: Don't forget to bring the originals with you.
Situation: How long did it take and what should we have brought with us?
We spent about 4 hours altogether in the compound. Once the interviews started they seemed to roll in about 15-17 minute cycles. If you know your position in line, you can estimate how much time you have till the interview is due. We did confront some boredom and they do have snack machines with chips and candy but I would have been happier had I prepared with a magazine and a decent sandwich.
Suggestion: Bring an inkpen for making the inevitable corrections to the forms, bring something to read and something to eat (and something for the kids to do if kids are present) for a three to six hour time period and make sure all these somethings don't have batteries (especially the kids).
Situation: So how much did this all cost?
The I-130 and DS-230 were the biggest chunks at $190 and 175 respectively. We also had to pay for things like the a new passport, my birth certificates, copies (lots of copies) translations (into German) etc. The next category includes things like rental cars, train, fuel or travel fares, and hotel costs.
I'll probably eventually do a complete breakdown but the rough costs were
- for all the beauracies, fees, German and US: $1056 or 825 at 1.28 exchange rate.
- Travel costs: 440
- plus copies, paper, ink for the printer, photos, other various odds and ends.
Suggestion: Bring lots of money and have more ready. For those on a shoestring, use cheap travel modes, find cheap copy machines, use the internet to get information.
I hope this helps relieve some of the stress I went through. There are lots of things that could have gone bad and it could have cost us lots of time, money and grief but with preparation everything was ok.
Last thoughts:
Start early and go to the consulate instead of doing things by mail.
Good luck all!
I love your report! You've made an excellent temploate for the next folk doing Ffurt DCF--bless your heart!
SO glad to hear that you got everything done on time and as easy as could be. Even when there are little bumps, this type of process makes them so easy to correct!
Congrats to you both, and happy travels! Thanks for the great report
SO glad to hear that you got everything done on time and as easy as could be. Even when there are little bumps, this type of process makes them so easy to correct!
Congrats to you both, and happy travels! Thanks for the great report
Congratulations Germlish!
And a huge thankyou for your comprehensive report - I've printed it out for reference for when our time comes!
Wishing you a safe trip home
~Candace
And a huge thankyou for your comprehensive report - I've printed it out for reference for when our time comes!
Wishing you a safe trip home
~Candace
Congratulations, Germlish!
Your report will be very helpful whenever my husband has his interview.
Your report will be very helpful whenever my husband has his interview.
QUOTE(Germlish @ May 24 2006, 09:53 AM)
QUOTE(zauberblume @ May 24 2006, 04:03 PM)
... it will take an additional three weeks before a decision is made. ...
Wow, that's a long time. Ours took about 10 minutes - at least I had the impression that the decision had been made while I was standing there and the petition was being reviewed.
And you asked if there was any to way to speed things up?
The only other option then is for your husband to go with you on a tourist visa waiver. He has to return to Germany anyway for the interview but from everything else I've read in the forums, don't even think he can just stay there - could be a reason for them to deny his visa.
Maybe something will happen that things will speed up.
Crossing my fingers and biting my thumbs :-)
Germlish:
Thanks.
I phoned the Consulate and emailed. The representative on the phone said it would take about three more weeks. An Immigration Assistant responding via email a few days later said it will take anywhere from 60 to 90 days. I asked if I could speed up the process at all by visiting the Consulate now and she said, "No." I asked if I could re-file the petition and she said, "No." I asked if I could expedite the petition and she said, "No."
I referenced your case and she said you were, "lucky." I have no idea what that means since mostly everyone--that I know of--who has submitted the petition in person has a had a pretty speedy case, provided that all was in order.
What really ticks me off is that when going in person, the petition is approved virtually on the spot, provided that it is complete. When you mail in the petition, it takes 60 to 90 days to adjudicate. Why? I understand that people who appear in person are processed at a much faster pace and rightfully so, but there is no reason why a mailed-in petition should take 60 to 90 days to adjudicate when, if you go in person, it only takes about a week at the most.
I wish the Consulate would just say that it would be better to file in person... We still haven't received a refund for the first payment we made. We've lost 160 and our petition will take another month or so...
I didn't and don't mind waiting a month... But three months is ridiculous and I wish I would've just paid for the flight from Berlin to Frankfurt to walk in my petition.
Now I have to hope for the best and stay patient.
Grrr... I hate immigration and everything about it.
Heya Zauberblume,
I asked an acquaintance who works in immigration about the delay with mailed-in petitions at Frankfurt, and why this seems to be a 'new' or 'current' thing.
It's PCS (permanent change of station - I think?!) season for the US military members posted here. Not only that, this year is apparently a big one. So her suggestion was that all these single military members who have acquired themselves a spouse () during their tour and have now been given orders to go back to the US and frantically filing I-130s at Frankfurt. And since orders are often given less than 120 days in advance (and let's face it, immigration is something a lot of people avoid until the last minute) a lot of these people will be doing walk-ins.
I still don't think that it warrants a 90-day wait on our part, and I'm sure this info will do nothing for your growling, but I hope it might come some way to explaining why you, why now.
I know on the form they send you back if something is wrong, it says 'If you wish to travel within 120 days, we suggest you file this in person,' but IMO this information should be published and readily available, and at least be on Frankfurt's page of the USCIS website (and maybe they'll remove that part about Deutschmarks at the same time..)
I've got everything crossed your petition gets a speedy approval and you get an interview in double-quick time
Germlish - sorry to derail but this thread is such a great reference for Frankfurters it's good to have everything in it
I asked an acquaintance who works in immigration about the delay with mailed-in petitions at Frankfurt, and why this seems to be a 'new' or 'current' thing.
It's PCS (permanent change of station - I think?!) season for the US military members posted here. Not only that, this year is apparently a big one. So her suggestion was that all these single military members who have acquired themselves a spouse (
) during their tour and have now been given orders to go back to the US and frantically filing I-130s at Frankfurt. And since orders are often given less than 120 days in advance (and let's face it, immigration is something a lot of people avoid until the last minute) a lot of these people will be doing walk-ins. I still don't think that it warrants a 90-day wait on our part, and I'm sure this info will do nothing for your growling, but I hope it might come some way to explaining why you, why now.
I know on the form they send you back if something is wrong, it says 'If you wish to travel within 120 days, we suggest you file this in person,' but IMO this information should be published and readily available, and at least be on Frankfurt's page of the USCIS website (and maybe they'll remove that part about Deutschmarks at the same time..)
I've got everything crossed your petition gets a speedy approval and you get an interview in double-quick time
Germlish - sorry to derail but this thread is such a great reference for Frankfurters it's good to have everything in it
QUOTE(Candace @ Jun 2 2006, 12:31 AM)
Heya Zauberblume,
I asked an acquaintance who works in immigration about the delay with mailed-in petitions at Frankfurt, and why this seems to be a 'new' or 'current' thing.
It's PCS (permanent change of station - I think?!) season for the US military members posted here. Not only that, this year is apparently a big one. So her suggestion was that all these single military members who have acquired themselves a spouse (
) during their tour and have now been given orders to go back to the US and frantically filing I-130s at Frankfurt. And since orders are often given less than 120 days in advance (and let's face it, immigration is something a lot of people avoid until the last minute) a lot of these people will be doing walk-ins. I still don't think that it warrants a 90-day wait on our part, and I'm sure this info will do nothing for your growling, but I hope it might come some way to explaining why you, why now.
I know on the form they send you back if something is wrong, it says 'If you wish to travel within 120 days, we suggest you file this in person,' but IMO this information should be published and readily available, and at least be on Frankfurt's page of the USCIS website (and maybe they'll remove that part about Deutschmarks at the same time..)
I've got everything crossed your petition gets a speedy approval and you get an interview in double-quick time
Germlish - sorry to derail but this thread is such a great reference for Frankfurters it's good to have everything in it
Candace:
Thanks! At least I know now why there is a much longer delay than in previous months.
I also considered filing in person after having the petition returned to me. However, I looked at timelines from forum members here and on another website, and all those petitions were approved in about three weeks. I was not in a hurry, per se, in April. My postgraduate program doesn't end until July 28 so I can't leave before that. (I was just nervous about my husband travelling with me in June b/c an immigration petition is on file and we didn't want any hassles trying to enter the country.)
I think the information on the Consulate website should be made clearer. I simply had no idea that it would really take sixty to ninety days. Moreover, the representative on the phone said it would only take an additional three weeks from the time that I phoned, which would mean that I'd get a response in the middle of June. I got a different timeline via an email response. Since we have gathered all of our documents, the second that I get Packet 3, I'm faxing the checklist--maybe that same day. In that case, I hope that we'll have our interview by the end of July. August is not too late either since I've already found an apartment and my friend will visit it and take photos... Now there's no need at all to go to the States until the end of August.
Such a whirlwind, this process...
zauberblume, there are still three months left before you need to be in the States, and as difficult as it seems the best thing to do in this visa process is to calm down and be patient. I'm almost certain it will all turn out fine.
What you can do at this point is to think ahead. Packet 3 will contain the DS-230 and the I-864 (Affidavit of support), which you or a co-sponsor will need to fill out. You can also ask your spouse to request a copy of the police certificate which takes a few weeks and if you live close to a consulate approved doctor, send him to the exam. While this will not speed up the process at USCIS, it will make the consular phase shorter. And Frankfurt can be quick...
Finally, your husband can accompany to the US, but because his immigration paperwork is currently being processed, he should bring evidence of ties in Germany. A letter from his employer, a rent contract, or whatever else shows that he is planning to leave the country will help him get in. It's not a certain thing, but chances are that a 2-week stay in the US, especially since he's waiting for an immigrant visa and you're living in Germany as well, is not an issue.
Good luck on entering grad school, btw. It's a blast...
edited to say: I thought the thread ended on the last page. Mornings are not my time, so sorry about the interference...
What you can do at this point is to think ahead. Packet 3 will contain the DS-230 and the I-864 (Affidavit of support), which you or a co-sponsor will need to fill out. You can also ask your spouse to request a copy of the police certificate which takes a few weeks and if you live close to a consulate approved doctor, send him to the exam. While this will not speed up the process at USCIS, it will make the consular phase shorter. And Frankfurt can be quick...
Finally, your husband can accompany to the US, but because his immigration paperwork is currently being processed, he should bring evidence of ties in Germany. A letter from his employer, a rent contract, or whatever else shows that he is planning to leave the country will help him get in. It's not a certain thing, but chances are that a 2-week stay in the US, especially since he's waiting for an immigrant visa and you're living in Germany as well, is not an issue.
Good luck on entering grad school, btw. It's a blast...
edited to say: I thought the thread ended on the last page. Mornings are not my time, so sorry about the interference...
Just sitting here hacking on the noteboon on a cold Saturday wishing the weather could be more like Atlanta when the doorbell rings (about 20 minutes ago).
)(=)/$"(§ who the heck is bothering me.
Oh - the mailman.
He has a big envelope, registered, for which he needs a signature.
No problem ... but wait, I've seen this envelope before .....
Where?
{sign sign ...... BING
The Visa has arrived!!!!!
Seems like mission impossible because while we have indeed cleared a huge milestone, we still have entry, SSAN, temporary green card, permanant GC ahead of us.
We are both thrilled of course but with the USCIS and DHS and DS I guess I'll really believe it when we have retired after long carreers in the US. :-)
)(=)/$"(§ who the heck is bothering me.
Oh - the mailman.
He has a big envelope, registered, for which he needs a signature.
No problem ... but wait, I've seen this envelope before .....
Where?
{sign sign ...... BING
The Visa has arrived!!!!!
Seems like mission impossible because while we have indeed cleared a huge milestone, we still have entry, SSAN, temporary green card, permanant GC ahead of us.
We are both thrilled of course but with the USCIS and DHS and DS I guess I'll really believe it when we have retired after long carreers in the US. :-)
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