QUOTE(aussiewench @ May 13 2006, 12:09 AM)

There are many that have been required to submit fingerprints prior to an interview being scheduled. The request would of been made by NVC.
At National Visa Center (State Department) stage, a separate independent NCIC database check is done by in-house FBI staff in connection with information supplied in the DS-230. Based on results, NVC has the option to request full fingerprints to be taken at post. NVC checks can usually be completed in 24 hours. In some limited cases involving high-risk visa applicants meeting certain specific criteria, NVC also does Security Advisory Opinions (SOAs) before sending the file to Consular Post.
Once the fingerprints have cleared FBI you should then be scheduled for an interview. A visa cannot be issued until this clearance.
All the best
Lorelle
Thank you so much for that information. Makes sense. We will follow the rules and hope for the best.