Hi. I was referred to this link by one of the VJ members on how to speed up the NVC process: http://www.visajourney.com/wiki/index.php/...'s_Shortcut

It sounds very reliable and foolproof, however I can't help but express hesitation at generating my own barcode. One thing that I want to make sure of is - (a) is this legal? (generating own barcode) ( has anyone else used james shortcuts and did not encounter any problems at the NVC?

You can pay your fee online now and can get the bar code sheet online like that, you don't need to go through James short cut anymore. Just try to get your IIN (invoice identification number) from NVC operator (try calling after 5 pm Est, and tell them you need your IIN for your record, dont mention that you need it for paying online).

Please refer to this forum discussion and download the step by step procedure from Lotto
forum discussion

hi silent! is it easier to get through NVC after 5pm? moreover, is the call center open 24 hours? and what's the reason behind not telling them that i don't need it to pay online?

Daisychain,

The online payment system is still on Beta stage, they can close it anytime they wish for, that's the reason they (customer representatives) discourage using online payment, though we all are looking for shortcuts, so we do risk that factor.

And I really am not sure why the morning customer care representatives don't give out the IIN, but it has happened to several of VJ posters where they could only get hold of IIN at evening hours, it has been the same with me too, my husband was trying to get the IIN for 2 days and finally got it through a few days ago.

Wish you all the best

Sorry, forgot to add a few things you asked,
No, call center isn't 24 hours service, at least for customer care representative, its from 7:30 am to 12 midnight, monday through friday eastern time zone.