(copied from Archived Forums. Credit to: Aussielad)
Ok...here it is, after speaking on the phone for MANY long hours to a consulate official in Sydney, i was given ALL the information needed for the DCF process in Australia.
In turn, i have compiled ALL this information together in a Q & A style to help everyone out and to CLEAR UP ANY confusion or discreptancies that might come up or be debated about. ALL information gathered is straight from the U.S. CONSULATE OFFICIALS mouth who i was on the phone to for a few hours!( and im now bloody broke for the month paying for the call but well worth it! lol) -VERY VALUABLE information.....so here it all is...ready it and enjoy!
Q:Is there any residency requirement for a U.S.C to file DCF in Australia?
A:None, one of very few where the U.S.C. can just fly into Australia and file DCF HOWEVER...it is strongly suggested that as soon as the USC arrives in Australia or even before they arrive by sending in your DS 230 part 1 &2 to open up your case and get a case number (which is explained more below) which you send in with your DS-2001(which is the letter stating you are ready for an interview) or walk in on a thursday( They do walk-ins on Thursdays only) because you never know how long the U.S.C. will be admitted into Australia for. The sooner the better to have enough time to accomplish everything for the DCF process.
Q:Do we HAVE to be married in Australia in order to file DCF?
A:NO...you dont have to be married in Australia to be able to file DCF. You can be married in the U.S. or U.S. territories, Australia or ANYWHERE in the world...even Japan if ya want to!. so long as you bring your MARRIAGE LICENCE/MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE with you. The Australian will have to prove Residency in Australia by citizenship(passport) or if they are an immigrant to Australia,an Australian residency card.
Q:Walk-ins on Thursdays???
A: Yes, they do walk-ins on THURSDAYS ONLY or, if you want to sumbit EVERYTING in 1 day AND have the interview, submit the DS-2001 before-hand and they'll work out a date for you,so you can arrive and file everything in one day and have the interview if they dont have a date for the one you want, they'll get the next closet for you.
Q: What is the disadvantage of doing it on a Thursday for the "walk-in"
A: Doing this, you will only be able to file the I-130 and G-325A x2 on the day which will BOTH be adjudicated on the spot. if they are approved, you will get a case number which will open up your case, and enable you to go get your medical done, If you ARENT from Sydney and your from other states, the disadvantage is hanging around the Sydney area for the next 3-5 weeks getting everything done (unless you have alot of money to be able to do it or know someone you can stay with) which is why it is better to file everything all at once on the day.
Q: How long will i have to wait until i get an interview???
A: Between 3-5 weeks.
Q:How can i begin to apply early/ open up my case before the U.S.C. arrives to start the DCF process because we dont want to do a "walk-in" on a Thursday?
A: Call the U.S. consulate 1902-941641 and you will be put onto a consulate official. Ask that you would like the I-130 Packets sent along with Packet 3 sent to your house.....this is what it will contain and what it ENABLES you to do to start it all off and get a case number which they in turn, will be able to refer to.
-I-130 Petition
-G-325-A x2 copies
-I-864 x1 (you will get another one if you need a joint sponsor)
-DS-230 part 1 and part 2
IMPORTANT!!!: To have your case opened up early before your U.S. spouse gets to Australia, you will need to send back the DS-230 part 1 AND part 2 with the DS-230 part 1 you are to SIGN AND DATE it. HOWEVER DO NOT sign and date the DS-230 part 2 (you will do that at the interview sworn under oath in front of the u.s. consulate official.
Doing this ENABLES you do OPEN up your case, so you can get a CASE NUMBER to be able to go get your MEDICAL done because you WONT be allowed to get your medical done without a case number, THIS is if you wish to do EVERYTHING in one day instead of the "walk-in" on a Thursday, you can go get your medical done and the doctor will send it back to the consulate so it is already there in your "file" with your "case number" send your DS-2001 ( letter stating you are ready for your interview) and you will get an interview date set.
Q: How long is the medical results/police certificate good for after i get them???
A: They are both good for 12 months from the day they are issued to you (there should be a date on them stating when they were issued to you)
Q: What type of Police certificate do i need?? with or without fingerprints???
A: You will need one WITH fingerprints. Depending on what state you live in...some will mail them to your house while others will send them direct to the consulate.
Q: Well what is the address to send in the DS-2001/DS-230 part 1 and 2 to?
A: Send your packet back here to this address.....
U.S. Consulate Sydney-IV Immigrant Visas
Level 59 19-29 Martin Place
Sydney, NSW
2000
If you are filing EVERYTHING on the one day,...they will send you a letter with an interview date where they will already have the police certificate/medical and you will be required to bring all other documents as mentioned below. upon arrival you wil go through the security checks, take a ticket and line up, you will then be called up for an interview where they will go through your I-130,G-325A x2 and the I-864 along with letters,emails,phone bills,photos etc, etc etc and adjudicate it on the spot.
Q: What will i need to bring to the interview???
A: They will send a letter with the required documents that you will need to bring with you, but here is what usually is required. You will need to bring the following to the interview.......
I-130 petition
G-325-A x2
I-864 x1 (or 2 if you are having a joint sponsor) AND notorized!!!
Police record (if it already wasnt sent there by the police in your area)
Medical
Passport photos adit style FRONT face adit style.
Phone bills,letters,emails,photos of you and the U.S.C together,marriage certificate/licence (where you were married) divorce certificates/death certificates, police records (if you have any prior convictions)
Q: Bank statements??,..tax returns what happens if the U.S.C. only has 1-2 tax returns?
A: If the U.S.C only has 1-2 years worth of tax returns the U.S.C will have to write a stat declaration stating WHY there is only 1-2 years and not 3 (maybe they were in school, or decided not to work that year etc etc) IF you are having a joint sponsor it will be the same deal if you have the 3 years but the sponsor only has 1-2. visa-versa situation.
Bank statements.....that is at the consulates discretion if they decide they do/dont look at that, depends on who you get. but the U.S.C. is still required to bring it. The consulate officials are more interested to see the tax returns from the U.S.C. and your sponsor (IF you are using a sponsor) to make sure you dont become a public charge and become welfare-dependant.
Q: What documents have to be notorized??
A: The I-864 has to be notorized and other adjoining documents such as tax returns etc, etc (only the front of the I-864 needs to be notorized)
Q:What about photcopies what use will they be in the DCF process???
A: None, why? because your filing DCF so your filing ALL ORIGINALS with them...henceforth why its called "DCF".Direct-Consulate-Filing. HOWEVER make another entire packet up of photocopies for yourself because you never know what can happen, bring it along with you to your interview aswell.
Q: How much is the DCF process going to cost me after all is said and done?
A: Around $1,500 U.S. Dollars for all the paperwork, visa,medical,vaccinations etc,etc etc. (that is to be on the SAFE SIDE why??? because at ANY given time, the prices can go up with very little or NO notice.)
eg story: "John doe and Jane doe go to file DCF at sydney consulate, John goes to pay $$$ amount of dollars for the immigrant visa...the consulate official turns and ses "sir you dont have enough, the price of immigrant visas have gone up, you are $$$$ short....we CAN NOT issue you your visa until the amount is paid in full.
.........dont get caught out bring enough.
(personal expenses whilst down there in hotels etc, etc will of course be more) they accept U.S. Currency (Avoid $100 Bills if possible, why...i dont know, thats just what the consulate official told me) and they also accept credit cards/debit cards.
Q: What happens if we are denied the visa???
A: Very rarely is anyone denied an immigrant visa in Australia by way of marriage to a U.S.C. hardly never at all (as the consulate offical told me) what usually happens is they are missing documents such as divorce certificates, birth certificates, or other documents. What will happen is that they will "approve" you for the visa....HOWEVER will NOT be able to issue it to you until you send in the necessary documents they require, then you can walk-in to pick up your visa or if you live out of state, they will mail it to you.
Remember...."failing to plan is planning to fail" so dont procastinate, be well prepared.
I think thats about all i can think of for now...i hope this helps everyone out in the DCF process....good luck to everyone.
Aussiewench: Any confirmed changes to the above procedures please let me know so I can update.
Full Version: AUSTRALIA DCF
VisaJourney.com > Marriage Based Immigration (K1, K2, K3, etc) to the USA > Direct Consular Filing (DCF) General Discussion
IMPORTANT CORRECTION to FAQ:
The pay number 1902-941641 is no longer used to get a document package.
Instead you should write a request by e-mail to SydneyIV@state.gov and they will mail it to you.
Whissh is better, because does not cost you anything.
The pay number 1902-941641 is no longer used to get a document package.
Instead you should write a request by e-mail to SydneyIV@state.gov and they will mail it to you.
Whissh is better, because does not cost you anything.
Another important change for people who do not live in NSW:
You now need to send not only DS-2001/DS-230 part 1 and 2 tbut also full I-864 package in order to get an interview.
Signature on I-864 Affidavit of Support sould be notarized in official Notary Public office but noyhing else need to be notirized. Also i was adviced that letter from employer to verify employment may be faxed directly to the Consulate instead of submitted with your application.
You now need to send not only DS-2001/DS-230 part 1 and 2 tbut also full I-864 package in order to get an interview.
Signature on I-864 Affidavit of Support sould be notarized in official Notary Public office but noyhing else need to be notirized. Also i was adviced that letter from employer to verify employment may be faxed directly to the Consulate instead of submitted with your application.
Anybody want to change this post? So that anybody new that comes along, doesn't get thrown off?
QUOTE(David A. @ Jun 14 2006, 10:20 PM) 
Anybody want to change this post? So that anybody new that comes along, doesn't get thrown off?
If someone doing DCF can write me up a new one and PM it to me.......I can edit the first post.
Hi guys,
I am going through the process now and a LOT of things have changed, I currently live in Brisbane with my Aussie hubbie and we just sent in the DS 2001 last week so I plan on making a final checklist after we get through the interview.
If anyone has any direct questions in the meantime, email directly which you are able to do through the site.
Thanks!
Jackie
Anybody want to change this post? So that anybody new that comes along, doesn't get thrown off?
I am going through the process now and a LOT of things have changed, I currently live in Brisbane with my Aussie hubbie and we just sent in the DS 2001 last week so I plan on making a final checklist after we get through the interview.
If anyone has any direct questions in the meantime, email directly which you are able to do through the site.
Thanks!
Jackie
QUOTE(David A. @ Jun 14 2006, 10:50 PM)
Anybody want to change this post? So that anybody new that comes along, doesn't get thrown off?
Here’s the run-down on the new DCF process in Australia.
The main difference is that now, you can’t start the DCF process until AFTER you’re married. There are also a few other minor changes which I’ll outline below. You can also find most of this information here: http://sydney.usconsulate.gov/consular/Pet...nstructions.pdf
1) Filing the petition
Once you’re married, the US citizen spouse can file the I-130 petition in Australia. The list of forms and documents you need can be found in the above pdf file. In short, this is what you need:
• Application fee
• I-130
• Original certificate of marriage and one photocopy (note this is a big change to the past – the unofficial marriage certificate you receive on the wedding day is no longer sufficient)
• Evidence of name changes and termination of prior marriages, if applicable (plus one photocopy)
• Sponsor’s US passport and one photocopy
• 2 x form G-325A
• Passport photos
• Evidence of relationship
There’s one thing I’m not sure of. In the past, I understand that if the applicant was a resident of NSW or ACT, the I-864 affidavit of support had to be filed with the I-130. We’ve been told by the Consulate that we should not file the I-864 with the I-130, but must be brought by me to my final interview. I’m not sure if this is because I’m from Victoria, or whether this process now applies to all visa applicants. I think it’s the latter, but if anyone knows this, please let us know!
The requirements for filing the I-130 are different depending on what state you live in:
a) NSW, ACT, Qld
If you live in one of these states, the US petitioner must file I-130 at the US Consulate in Sydney, doing a walk-in on Thursdays between 8am and 12noon. It seems like you can’t set up an appointment – you have to do the walk-in.
Victoria, SA, NT, Tasmania
If you live in one of these states, the US petitioner must file the I-130 at the US Consulate in Melbourne. You can’t do a walk-in – you must make an appointment in advance. The email address to do so is: melbourneNIV@state.gov
Note that once the I-30 is filed, it is forwarded to Sydney, and the visa applicant still has to go to Sydney for the final interview.
c) WA
If you live in WA, the US petitioner must file the I-130 at the US Consulate in Perth, doing a walk-in Monday to Thursday, between 8.30am and 11.30am.
Like Melbourne, the I-130 is then forwarded to Sydney, and the visa applicant still has to go to Sydney for the interview.
2) Receiving “packet 3”
Unless you’re lucky enough to have already got packet 3 from Sydney before they implemented the new process, you now have to wait until after the I-130 is filed before they’ll send it to you.
So after the I-130 is filed in Sydney, or forwarded to Sydney by the other state consulates, Sydney will send automatically send packet 3 to the visa applicant. This should include the forms DS-230 Parts 1 and 2, forms to obtain your medical, information about the police check, and the DS-2001 to send in once you’re ready for interview.
Once you receive packet 3, you should immediately return forms DS-230 Parts 1 and 2 to Sydney.
Next, once you’ve had your medical and received your police check, you can then send in form DS-2001 to Sydney letting them know you’re ready for your interview. I understand you can expect an interview date about 4 weeks from sending in the DS-2001, but I can’t confirm this – perhaps we’ll find out as the first people go through the new system. I’ll let you know what happens to me when we send in our forms in October!
(Note: if you want to speed the process up, you could always obtain the police check before you receive packet 3, as they can sometimes take a while to receive).
3) The interview
When you go to Sydney for the interview, you will need:
• Police certificate
• Medical
• I-864 and accompanying documents (again, you should check this if you’re from NSW or ACT). Note, this no longer needs to be notarized.
• Birth certificate
• Evidence of relationship
Let me know if I’ve missed something!
4) Sidenote: if you’ve already received packet 3
This is the situation we’re in. The Sydney Consulate has told us that what we can go ahead and send in the DS-230 parts 1 and 2 now, and the DS-2001 once I’ve got my medical and sort out the police check. My partner will then file the I-130 after our wedding, and they’ll give us the first available interview date given they should have all our forms by that point. If anyone else is in this boat, let me know if you want any further information about this.
So that’s the process in a nutshell. If anyone wants to add more information from their own experience, please feel free!
The main difference is that now, you can’t start the DCF process until AFTER you’re married. There are also a few other minor changes which I’ll outline below. You can also find most of this information here: http://sydney.usconsulate.gov/consular/Pet...nstructions.pdf
1) Filing the petition
Once you’re married, the US citizen spouse can file the I-130 petition in Australia. The list of forms and documents you need can be found in the above pdf file. In short, this is what you need:
• Application fee
• I-130
• Original certificate of marriage and one photocopy (note this is a big change to the past – the unofficial marriage certificate you receive on the wedding day is no longer sufficient)
• Evidence of name changes and termination of prior marriages, if applicable (plus one photocopy)
• Sponsor’s US passport and one photocopy
• 2 x form G-325A
• Passport photos
• Evidence of relationship
There’s one thing I’m not sure of. In the past, I understand that if the applicant was a resident of NSW or ACT, the I-864 affidavit of support had to be filed with the I-130. We’ve been told by the Consulate that we should not file the I-864 with the I-130, but must be brought by me to my final interview. I’m not sure if this is because I’m from Victoria, or whether this process now applies to all visa applicants. I think it’s the latter, but if anyone knows this, please let us know!
The requirements for filing the I-130 are different depending on what state you live in:
a) NSW, ACT, Qld
If you live in one of these states, the US petitioner must file I-130 at the US Consulate in Sydney, doing a walk-in on Thursdays between 8am and 12noon. It seems like you can’t set up an appointment – you have to do the walk-in.
Victoria, SA, NT, TasmaniaIf you live in one of these states, the US petitioner must file the I-130 at the US Consulate in Melbourne. You can’t do a walk-in – you must make an appointment in advance. The email address to do so is: melbourneNIV@state.gov
Note that once the I-30 is filed, it is forwarded to Sydney, and the visa applicant still has to go to Sydney for the final interview.
c) WA
If you live in WA, the US petitioner must file the I-130 at the US Consulate in Perth, doing a walk-in Monday to Thursday, between 8.30am and 11.30am.
Like Melbourne, the I-130 is then forwarded to Sydney, and the visa applicant still has to go to Sydney for the interview.
2) Receiving “packet 3”
Unless you’re lucky enough to have already got packet 3 from Sydney before they implemented the new process, you now have to wait until after the I-130 is filed before they’ll send it to you.
So after the I-130 is filed in Sydney, or forwarded to Sydney by the other state consulates, Sydney will send automatically send packet 3 to the visa applicant. This should include the forms DS-230 Parts 1 and 2, forms to obtain your medical, information about the police check, and the DS-2001 to send in once you’re ready for interview.
Once you receive packet 3, you should immediately return forms DS-230 Parts 1 and 2 to Sydney.
Next, once you’ve had your medical and received your police check, you can then send in form DS-2001 to Sydney letting them know you’re ready for your interview. I understand you can expect an interview date about 4 weeks from sending in the DS-2001, but I can’t confirm this – perhaps we’ll find out as the first people go through the new system. I’ll let you know what happens to me when we send in our forms in October!
(Note: if you want to speed the process up, you could always obtain the police check before you receive packet 3, as they can sometimes take a while to receive).
3) The interview
When you go to Sydney for the interview, you will need:
• Police certificate
• Medical
• I-864 and accompanying documents (again, you should check this if you’re from NSW or ACT). Note, this no longer needs to be notarized.
• Birth certificate
• Evidence of relationship
Let me know if I’ve missed something!
4) Sidenote: if you’ve already received packet 3
This is the situation we’re in. The Sydney Consulate has told us that what we can go ahead and send in the DS-230 parts 1 and 2 now, and the DS-2001 once I’ve got my medical and sort out the police check. My partner will then file the I-130 after our wedding, and they’ll give us the first available interview date given they should have all our forms by that point. If anyone else is in this boat, let me know if you want any further information about this.
So that’s the process in a nutshell. If anyone wants to add more information from their own experience, please feel free!
Wouldn't you know it... as soon as I got around to posting the new information, we received some further information from the Consulate... (I can't figure out how to edit my old post, so I'm putting it here -- sorry for the confusion).
Basically, everyone now has the option of doing a walk-in on Thursdays in Sydney to file the I-130, not just those who live in NSW, ACT and QLD. So, if you live in Melbourne, you can either make an appointment to file through Melbourne, OR do a walk-in in Sydney.
I'm attaching the new document they sent us outlining these changes.
We also got some more information about filing in Melbourne. Apparently, they only set aside one day a month to file the I-130s. We wanted to file in early October, but they are only accepting petitions on 25 October. So looks like we'll be doing a Sydney walk-in instead!
[attachmentid=1991]
Basically, everyone now has the option of doing a walk-in on Thursdays in Sydney to file the I-130, not just those who live in NSW, ACT and QLD. So, if you live in Melbourne, you can either make an appointment to file through Melbourne, OR do a walk-in in Sydney.
I'm attaching the new document they sent us outlining these changes.
We also got some more information about filing in Melbourne. Apparently, they only set aside one day a month to file the I-130s. We wanted to file in early October, but they are only accepting petitions on 25 October. So looks like we'll be doing a Sydney walk-in instead!
[attachmentid=1991]
Here is a really good link for how to get started in Australia.
http://usembassy-australia.state.gov/consu...nstructions.pdf
Hi there,
Did Sydney advise you that even though you live in Victoria ( I am assuming you do) you can do a walk in. Because, it says in their instructions -
"Visa applicants residing in the above-mentioned states come under the
consular jurisdiction of the U.S. Consulate General in Melbourne for filing
and approval of I-130 petitions. The petitioner must personally file the
petition with the Consulate at Melbourne. Please e-mail the Melbourne
Consulate at MelbourneNIV@state.gov for an appointment to lodge the
I-130 petition."
I am also considering DCF but want to know all my options here.
http://usembassy-australia.state.gov/consu...nstructions.pdf
Hi there,
Did Sydney advise you that even though you live in Victoria ( I am assuming you do) you can do a walk in. Because, it says in their instructions -
"Visa applicants residing in the above-mentioned states come under the
consular jurisdiction of the U.S. Consulate General in Melbourne for filing
and approval of I-130 petitions. The petitioner must personally file the
petition with the Consulate at Melbourne. Please e-mail the Melbourne
Consulate at MelbourneNIV@state.gov for an appointment to lodge the
I-130 petition."
I am also considering DCF but want to know all my options here.
QUOTE(hollywood79 @ Sep 5 2006, 06:52 PM)
Here is a really good link for how to get started in Australia.
http://usembassy-australia.state.gov/consu...nstructions.pdf
Hi there,
Did Sydney advise you that even though you live in Victoria ( I am assuming you do) you can do a walk in. Because, it says in their instructions -
"Visa applicants residing in the above-mentioned states come under the
consular jurisdiction of the U.S. Consulate General in Melbourne for filing
and approval of I-130 petitions. The petitioner must personally file the
petition with the Consulate at Melbourne. Please e-mail the Melbourne
Consulate at MelbourneNIV@state.gov for an appointment to lodge the
I-130 petition."
I am also considering DCF but want to know all my options here.
I'm glad you are on here... there have been many changes within the past 6 months and many of us DCF'ing in Australia are much aware of these new changes, thanks to everyone here! Have a look at these links...
http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=16120
http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=26805
QUOTE(hollywood79 @ Sep 5 2006, 07:52 PM)
Here is a really good link for how to get started in Australia.
http://usembassy-australia.state.gov/consu...nstructions.pdf
Hi there,
Did Sydney advise you that even though you live in Victoria ( I am assuming you do) you can do a walk in. Because, it says in their instructions -
"Visa applicants residing in the above-mentioned states come under the
consular jurisdiction of the U.S. Consulate General in Melbourne for filing
and approval of I-130 petitions. The petitioner must personally file the
petition with the Consulate at Melbourne. Please e-mail the Melbourne
Consulate at MelbourneNIV@state.gov for an appointment to lodge the
I-130 petition."
I am also considering DCF but want to know all my options here.
Hi hollywood79
There is a more recent version of the instructions that the Consulate mailed to me, that states that if you live in Melbourne, you can either file in Melbourne OR do a walk-in in Sydney. If you email the Consulate for the instructions, I'm sure they'll send them to you -- they're quite helpful (apart from changing their mind frequently about how things are now working!)
So who is going to write the new Australia DCF Guide??? 
QUOTE(meauxna @ Sep 6 2006, 10:33 PM)
So who is going to write the new Australia DCF Guide???
I wrote one which is in this thread above.
Postscript for hollywood 79 -- if you see post 8 above, I actually attached the amended instructions which you can download from there (I forgot I'd done this!)
Hi All,
After being married and almost at our 2 yr date, can someone direct me to where i can go for the next step? i know we still need to file more paper work, but unsure where and what.
Thanks!
After being married and almost at our 2 yr date, can someone direct me to where i can go for the next step? i know we still need to file more paper work, but unsure where and what.
Thanks!
QUOTE(allforlove @ Oct 3 2006, 06:00 AM)
Hi All,
After being married and almost at our 2 yr date, can someone direct me to where i can go for the next step? i know we still need to file more paper work, but unsure where and what.
Thanks!
What's your current status & location?
QUOTE(meauxna @ Oct 3 2006, 12:18 PM)
QUOTE(allforlove @ Oct 3 2006, 06:00 AM)
Hi All,
After being married and almost at our 2 yr date, can someone direct me to where i can go for the next step? i know we still need to file more paper work, but unsure where and what.
Thanks!
What's your current status & location?
we live in massachusetts, and he has his green card.
So does anyone know roughly, how much time this new process takes from start (petition) to finish visa interview....
And, am I the only one who thinks how ridiculous it is that the WHOLE country needs to go to Sydney for the last interview...??? I mean that's like saying the whole of the United States needs to go to Washington for their petition!
And, am I the only one who thinks how ridiculous it is that the WHOLE country needs to go to Sydney for the last interview...??? I mean that's like saying the whole of the United States needs to go to Washington for their petition!
QUOTE(priscillaqueenof @ Oct 16 2006, 08:47 PM)
So does anyone know roughly, how much time this new process takes from start (petition) to finish visa interview....
And, am I the only one who thinks how ridiculous it is that the WHOLE country needs to go to Sydney for the last interview...??? I mean that's like saying the whole of the United States needs to go to Washington for their petition!
I think it's fair to say about 2 months from when you file the I-130, though it will depend a bit on how organized you are. You should receive packet 3 when you file the I-130. If you're organized, you should have all the info you need for the I-864 by that point, and your police check. That will just leave the medical to do. In Melbourne, I had to wait about 4 weeks for an appointment, but other cities might vary.
So assuming you file the DS-2001 (requesting an interview date) about 4 weeks after the I-130 petition, once your medical has been done, you should get an interview date about 4 weeks after that based on the timeframes Sydney seems to have at the moment.
QUOTE(Lunamel @ Oct 17 2006, 11:17 AM)
QUOTE(priscillaqueenof @ Oct 16 2006, 08:47 PM)
So does anyone know roughly, how much time this new process takes from start (petition) to finish visa interview....
And, am I the only one who thinks how ridiculous it is that the WHOLE country needs to go to Sydney for the last interview...??? I mean that's like saying the whole of the United States needs to go to Washington for their petition!
I think it's fair to say about 2 months from when you file the I-130, though it will depend a bit on how organized you are. You should receive packet 3 when you file the I-130. If you're organized, you should have all the info you need for the I-864 by that point, and your police check. That will just leave the medical to do. In Melbourne, I had to wait about 4 weeks for an appointment, but other cities might vary.
So assuming you file the DS-2001 (requesting an interview date) about 4 weeks after the I-130 petition, once your medical has been done, you should get an interview date about 4 weeks after that based on the timeframes Sydney seems to have at the moment.
Hi Lunamel
I couldn't find this string for the life of me.
Thanks for this. I think I've asked you in the other string where I can get the I-864 as I don't think it came with the instructions from the Consulate.
Also, after waiting the four weeks to get the interview date how soon after is the interview (roughly)? As I will need to book a flight to Sydney. (I'm in Melbourne).
just found out that service from mel -> sydney on jetstar won't start til after xmas...can you make it to avalon??
http://www.jetstar.com/
http://www.jetstar.com/
Hey everyone. I've got about 30 days until my walk-in in Sydney. Can anyone tell me if there is anything on the check off list for submitting the I-130 that needs to be notarized?
Forgive my ignorance, but if the petition is approved at the Sydney Consulate and you're granted a visa for entry to the US, can you gain employment in the US immediately upon entry, or do you still have to wait for the physical green card to be in hand?
Sorry to be asking a blatantly obvious question, but I've been through britishexpats.com and now this forum and I fear I've become a little overloaded...
The facts:
*I am an Australian citizen (NSW)
*She is a US citizen (Florida)
*We will be married early 2008
*I have a SSN in the US (expired E3 visa)
*We have met face to face, many photos, email, bills etc as proof of relationship
*We are of legal age for marriage
*We tick all the other boxes I've read on the various forms needed for DCF.
Sorry to be asking a blatantly obvious question, but I've been through britishexpats.com and now this forum and I fear I've become a little overloaded...
The facts:
*I am an Australian citizen (NSW)
*She is a US citizen (Florida)
*We will be married early 2008
*I have a SSN in the US (expired E3 visa)
*We have met face to face, many photos, email, bills etc as proof of relationship
*We are of legal age for marriage
*We tick all the other boxes I've read on the various forms needed for DCF.
Hi, I'm currently going through DCF in Melbourne Australia. I've been having some problems on where to file, how to make an appointment, etc. and finally got an answer from the Sydney consulate. (I'm just copying and pasting the document they gave me..no edits have been made)
I thought the information would be very useful to anyone else wishing to go the DCF route. If you'd like me to remove this, please let me know!! Hope this helps someone!
DOCUMENT #1
CONSULATE GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES
LEVEL 59 MLC CENTRE 19-29 MARTIN PLACE SYDNEY NSW 2000
http://sydney.usconsulate.gov/sydney
IMMIGRATING AS THE SPOUSE OF AN AMERICAN CITIZEN
Thank you for your recent inquiry about immigrating to the United States as the spouse of an American citizen. Please read the following instructions carefully. For your convenience, we have included the website addresses where the required instructions and forms may be downloaded from.
Immigration is a two-step process:
•First, the American citizen files a petition (Form I-130) to establish the relationship and the visa category. Forms I-130 and G-325A may be downloaded from the following website addresses: http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/I-130.pdf or http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/g-325a.pdf All four pages of Form G-325A must be completed for each of the petitioner and the beneficiary.
•Second, the spouse of the American applies for a visa.
Step One: Filing the Petition
Please note:
•The U.S. citizen is the Petitioner & Sponsor
•The visa applicant is the Beneficiary
•The I-130 petition cannot be filed until after the marriage has taken place.
•Unlike filing petitions in the United States, the petition must be submitted in person, not by mail.
•The petitioner must have maintained a continuous residence in Australia and must be able to show that they have permission to reside in Australia and that they have been doing so for at least six months before filing the petition.
•If the petitioner is a member of the U.S. military stationed in Australia, a copy of his/her orders must accompany the I-130 petition.
To file the petition, the petitioner is required to submit supporting documents for him/herself as well as for his/her spouse and any children accompanying the visa applicant. Please refer to the attached “Checklist for Filing I-130 Petitions for Spouses, Children & Stepchildren.” The petitioner is also required to satisfy a Consular Officer that the relationship with the beneficiary is valid and exists for more than just the purpose of immigration.
New South Wales, ACT, Queensland
Petitioners residing in the New South Wales, ACT, and Queensland must personally file I-130 petitions at the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney. We accept petitions by appointment only between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon except U.S. and Australian holidays. The security guards must screen you before 11:45 a.m. Please e-mail the Consulate General in Sydney at SydneyPetitions@state.gov for an appointment to file your I-130 petition. This e-mail address is to be used only for requesting I-130 filing appointments. All other immigration inquiries should be addressed to sydneyiv@state.gov
The package of instructions known as “Packet 3,” used by a beneficiary to apply for his/her immigrant visa, will not be mailed until an I-130 petition is filed and approved at the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney.
Victoria, South Australia, Northern Territory, Tasmania
Petitioners residing in Victoria, South Australia, the Northern Territory, and Tasmania may personally file I-130 petitions at the U.S. Consulate General in Melbourne. Please e-mail the Consulate General in Melbourne at MelbourneNIV@state.gov for an appointment to file your I-130 petition.
Upon approval of the petition, it will be transferred to Sydney for further processing. Please note that the visa applicant’s final visa interview must take place in Sydney. The Consulate General in Melbourne does not conduct immigrant visa interviews.
The package of instructions known as “Packet 3,” used by a beneficiary to apply for his/her immigrant visa, will not be mailed until an I-130 petition is filed and approved at the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney.
Alternatively, you may personally lodge the I-130 petition at the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney. Please e-mail the Consulate General in Sydney at SydneyPetitions@state.gov for an appointment.
Western Australia
Petitioners residing in Western Australia may personally file I-130 petitions at the U.S. Consulate General in Perth, Monday to Thursday between 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Upon approval of the petition, it will be transferred to Sydney for further processing. Please note that the visa applicant’s final visa interview must take place in Sydney. The U.S. Consulate General in Perth does not conduct immigrant visa interviews.
The package of instructions known as “Packet 3,” used by a beneficiary to apply for his/her immigrant visa, will not be mailed until an I-130 petition is filed and approved at the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney.
Alternatively, you may personally file the I-130 petition at the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney. Please e-mail the Consulate General in Sydney at SydneyPetitions@state.gov for an appointment.
Adam Walsh Act Namecheck for Petitioner:
Upon receipt of the visa applicant’s I-130 petition, the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney will transmit information on the petitioner to the National Visa Center (NVC) in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. NVC will forward the petitioner’s information to the Vermont Service Center (VSC) to perform background checks, determining whether Adam Walsh Act ineligibility issues are present.
The results of the name check process will be returned to the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney by NVC. If the petitioner’s name check is clear, the petition will be approved and the immigrant visa process may begin. If the petitioner does not clear the process, the filed petition and supporting documents will be forwarded to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office in Bangkok, Thailand.
Receiving “Packet 3”:
When the petitioner has cleared the Adam Walsh Act process, the initial set of forms and instructions (“Packet 3”) will be mailed to the visa applicant to begin processing his/her visa application. On receipt, the applicant should complete and return forms DS-230 Parts I & II (“Application for Immigrant Visa Application & Registration”) as soon as possible to the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney.
Please note we can only accept original forms, not faxed or scanned copies.
Step Two: The Visa Interview (for the visa applicant)
Scheduling the visa interview:
The “Instructions for Immigrant Visa Applicants – Overview” lists items that you are expected to have for the visa interview. When you have obtained all of the documents required for your case, complete and mail (do not fax or scan) Form DS-2001 to advise the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney that you have all items and are ready for your final visa interview. The first available appointment will be scheduled.
While we cannot guarantee the interview will match your proposed travel plans, we will try to schedule it as near as possible to your desired departure date.
Your interview will be scheduled only after the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney has in their files an approved I-130 petition, DS-230 Parts I & II, and your DS-2001 forms.
Processing immigrant visa applications takes time, and occasionally unexpected ineligibilities or omissions in documentation only become apparent at the interview stage.
Therefore, please do not make any irrevocable arrangements, such as purchasing non-refundable tickets, selling your home, or quitting your job until after your visa is actually approved and issued. You will have six (6) months from the date the visa is issued to travel to the United States.
Processing the visa:
The total application processing and security surcharge fee is US$355.00 or AUS$408.25 per person. This is paid at the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney just before the visa interview, in the form of cash, credit card, money order, or bank check made payable to the “U.S. Consulate.” This fee is non-refundable, whether or not the visa is issued. Personal and company checks cannot be accepted. Change can only be provided for transactions conducted in Australian currency.
You should also bring to your interview a pre-paid self-addressed 3kg Express Post envelope (plastic satchel) purchased from Australia Post. We will use this to mail your visa to you when it is issued, as we do not issue visas on the same day as the interview. If it is determined at your interview that you need to submit additional documents, you can mail them afterwards. An immigrant visa is valid for six months from the date of issuance.
The Consulate General in Sydney is the only office in Australia that processes U.S. immigrant visa applications and conducts immigrant visa interviews. The Consulates General in Melbourne and Perth can accept I-130 petitions for immigrant visas, but do not process immigrant visas or conduct immigrant visa interviews.
Information on these categories of visas is available by mail or e-mail (sydneyiv@state.gov), or from our web site at http://usembassy-australia.state.gov.
Enclosed (if receiving instructions by mail):
Petition, Form I-130, & instructions
CHECKLIST FOR FILING I-130 PETITIONS
FOR SPOUSES, CHILDREN & STEPCHILDREN
Documents to be presented for U.S. citizen petitioner:
1. Fee of US$355.00 or AUD$408.25 in cash, credit card, postal money order, or bank check made payable to the U.S. Consulate General, Sydney. Personal and company checks cannot be accepted. Change can only be provided for transactions conducted in Australian dollar cash.
2. Fully completed and signed I-130, Petition for Alien Relative.
3. Valid U.S. passport and one photocopy of the passport’s biographic and photo page.
4. One photocopy of the passport page showing your valid Australian visa.
5. One photocopy of the passport page showing your arrival stamp into Australia.
6. Valid Australian passport and one photocopy of the passport’s biographic and photo page if you hold dual, American and Australian nationalities.
7. Original evidence of name change (if applicable) and one photocopy.
8. Original evidence of termination of any prior marriages and one photocopy.
9. Original current marriage certificate and one photocopy. (Please note that the marriage certificate you signed on your wedding day is insufficient for immigrant visa purposes. Instead, you must submit a copy issued by the Australian Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages, or from the applicable Court or Registrar offices of the country where you were married. The certificate must bear an original seal of that issuing office.)
10. One photograph, in the format specified at the end of this information sheet.
11. One fully completed biographic data, form G-325A.
12. Evidence of a valid relationship
Documents to be presented for foreign spouse:
1. Original evidence of name change (if applicable) and one photocopy.
2. Original evidence of termination of any prior marriages and one photocopy.
3. One photograph, in the format specified at the end of this information sheet.
4. One fully completed biographic data form G-325A.
Documents to be presented for foreign born children or stepchildren:
•To file petitions for a step-child, the child must have been under the age of 18 at the time the U.S. citizen petitioner married the child’s natural parent.
•Do not submit the biographic data form G325A nor photographs if filing for child or stepchild.
Please present the following for a child or stepchild:
1. Original birth certificate of child/stepchild and one photocopy.
2. Original evidence of name change or adoption decree (if applicable) and one photocopy.
3. Original evidence of termination of any prior marriages of the child’s natural parent (if applicable) and one photocopy.
Format for photographs:
• Frame subject with full face, front view, eyes open
• Make sure photo presents full head from top of hair to bottom of chin; height of head should measure 1 inch to 1-3/8 inches (25 mm to 35 mm)
• Center head within frame (see sketch below)
• Make sure eye height is between 1-1/8 inches to 1-3/8 inches (28 mm and 35 mm) from bottom of photo
• Position subject and lighting so that there are no distracting shadows on the face or background
• Encourage subject to have a natural expression
DOCUMENT #2
CONSULATE GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES
LEVEL 59 MLC CENTRE 19-29 MARTIN PLACE SYDNEY NSW 2000
61-2-9373-9200 sydney.usconsulate.gov/sydney
Under the revised procedures for filing petitions outside of the U.S., embassies and consulates may resume accepting I-130 petitions from American citizen petitioners who have maintained continuous residency in the consular district a minimum of the preceding six months. Petitioners must be able to show that they have permission to reside in the consular district and that they have been doing so for at least six months before filing the petition.
Exceptions to the petitioner’s residency abroad requirement can be made only in cases of true emergency such as life and death or health and safety or when in the national interest. Examples would include minor children who would be unexpectedly left without a caretaker. Family reunification or new marriages alone are not emergencies. Examples of national interest include facilitating the travel of United States military and other U.S. government direct hire employees assigned overseas who are pending imminent transfer on orders and need to petition their spouse and minor children at posts overseas. Individuals who are in Australia on a temporary status, such as student or tourist, would not be considered to meet the residency standard.
All lawful permanent residents, and American citizens’ resident in the United States or with a permanent address in the United States, will file the I-130 petitions at the USCIS Service Center having jurisdiction over their place of residence as indicated on the USCIS website: http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-130.pdf
Quote the language in 9 FAM Appendix N, 201.1,
“U.S. citizens whose principal residence is not in the consular district, and/or who have entered the consular district as a temporary visitor/student/or with limited leave to enter and remain must file the petition with the appropriate USCIS Service Center in the United States.”
I thought the information would be very useful to anyone else wishing to go the DCF route. If you'd like me to remove this, please let me know!! Hope this helps someone!
DOCUMENT #1
CONSULATE GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES
LEVEL 59 MLC CENTRE 19-29 MARTIN PLACE SYDNEY NSW 2000
http://sydney.usconsulate.gov/sydney
IMMIGRATING AS THE SPOUSE OF AN AMERICAN CITIZEN
Thank you for your recent inquiry about immigrating to the United States as the spouse of an American citizen. Please read the following instructions carefully. For your convenience, we have included the website addresses where the required instructions and forms may be downloaded from.
Immigration is a two-step process:
•First, the American citizen files a petition (Form I-130) to establish the relationship and the visa category. Forms I-130 and G-325A may be downloaded from the following website addresses: http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/I-130.pdf or http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/g-325a.pdf All four pages of Form G-325A must be completed for each of the petitioner and the beneficiary.
•Second, the spouse of the American applies for a visa.
Step One: Filing the Petition
Please note:
•The U.S. citizen is the Petitioner & Sponsor
•The visa applicant is the Beneficiary
•The I-130 petition cannot be filed until after the marriage has taken place.
•Unlike filing petitions in the United States, the petition must be submitted in person, not by mail.
•The petitioner must have maintained a continuous residence in Australia and must be able to show that they have permission to reside in Australia and that they have been doing so for at least six months before filing the petition.
•If the petitioner is a member of the U.S. military stationed in Australia, a copy of his/her orders must accompany the I-130 petition.
To file the petition, the petitioner is required to submit supporting documents for him/herself as well as for his/her spouse and any children accompanying the visa applicant. Please refer to the attached “Checklist for Filing I-130 Petitions for Spouses, Children & Stepchildren.” The petitioner is also required to satisfy a Consular Officer that the relationship with the beneficiary is valid and exists for more than just the purpose of immigration.
New South Wales, ACT, Queensland
Petitioners residing in the New South Wales, ACT, and Queensland must personally file I-130 petitions at the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney. We accept petitions by appointment only between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon except U.S. and Australian holidays. The security guards must screen you before 11:45 a.m. Please e-mail the Consulate General in Sydney at SydneyPetitions@state.gov for an appointment to file your I-130 petition. This e-mail address is to be used only for requesting I-130 filing appointments. All other immigration inquiries should be addressed to sydneyiv@state.gov
The package of instructions known as “Packet 3,” used by a beneficiary to apply for his/her immigrant visa, will not be mailed until an I-130 petition is filed and approved at the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney.
Victoria, South Australia, Northern Territory, Tasmania
Petitioners residing in Victoria, South Australia, the Northern Territory, and Tasmania may personally file I-130 petitions at the U.S. Consulate General in Melbourne. Please e-mail the Consulate General in Melbourne at MelbourneNIV@state.gov for an appointment to file your I-130 petition.
Upon approval of the petition, it will be transferred to Sydney for further processing. Please note that the visa applicant’s final visa interview must take place in Sydney. The Consulate General in Melbourne does not conduct immigrant visa interviews.
The package of instructions known as “Packet 3,” used by a beneficiary to apply for his/her immigrant visa, will not be mailed until an I-130 petition is filed and approved at the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney.
Alternatively, you may personally lodge the I-130 petition at the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney. Please e-mail the Consulate General in Sydney at SydneyPetitions@state.gov for an appointment.
Western Australia
Petitioners residing in Western Australia may personally file I-130 petitions at the U.S. Consulate General in Perth, Monday to Thursday between 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Upon approval of the petition, it will be transferred to Sydney for further processing. Please note that the visa applicant’s final visa interview must take place in Sydney. The U.S. Consulate General in Perth does not conduct immigrant visa interviews.
The package of instructions known as “Packet 3,” used by a beneficiary to apply for his/her immigrant visa, will not be mailed until an I-130 petition is filed and approved at the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney.
Alternatively, you may personally file the I-130 petition at the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney. Please e-mail the Consulate General in Sydney at SydneyPetitions@state.gov for an appointment.
Adam Walsh Act Namecheck for Petitioner:
Upon receipt of the visa applicant’s I-130 petition, the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney will transmit information on the petitioner to the National Visa Center (NVC) in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. NVC will forward the petitioner’s information to the Vermont Service Center (VSC) to perform background checks, determining whether Adam Walsh Act ineligibility issues are present.
The results of the name check process will be returned to the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney by NVC. If the petitioner’s name check is clear, the petition will be approved and the immigrant visa process may begin. If the petitioner does not clear the process, the filed petition and supporting documents will be forwarded to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office in Bangkok, Thailand.
Receiving “Packet 3”:
When the petitioner has cleared the Adam Walsh Act process, the initial set of forms and instructions (“Packet 3”) will be mailed to the visa applicant to begin processing his/her visa application. On receipt, the applicant should complete and return forms DS-230 Parts I & II (“Application for Immigrant Visa Application & Registration”) as soon as possible to the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney.
Please note we can only accept original forms, not faxed or scanned copies.
Step Two: The Visa Interview (for the visa applicant)
Scheduling the visa interview:
The “Instructions for Immigrant Visa Applicants – Overview” lists items that you are expected to have for the visa interview. When you have obtained all of the documents required for your case, complete and mail (do not fax or scan) Form DS-2001 to advise the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney that you have all items and are ready for your final visa interview. The first available appointment will be scheduled.
While we cannot guarantee the interview will match your proposed travel plans, we will try to schedule it as near as possible to your desired departure date.
Your interview will be scheduled only after the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney has in their files an approved I-130 petition, DS-230 Parts I & II, and your DS-2001 forms.
Processing immigrant visa applications takes time, and occasionally unexpected ineligibilities or omissions in documentation only become apparent at the interview stage.
Therefore, please do not make any irrevocable arrangements, such as purchasing non-refundable tickets, selling your home, or quitting your job until after your visa is actually approved and issued. You will have six (6) months from the date the visa is issued to travel to the United States.
Processing the visa:
The total application processing and security surcharge fee is US$355.00 or AUS$408.25 per person. This is paid at the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney just before the visa interview, in the form of cash, credit card, money order, or bank check made payable to the “U.S. Consulate.” This fee is non-refundable, whether or not the visa is issued. Personal and company checks cannot be accepted. Change can only be provided for transactions conducted in Australian currency.
You should also bring to your interview a pre-paid self-addressed 3kg Express Post envelope (plastic satchel) purchased from Australia Post. We will use this to mail your visa to you when it is issued, as we do not issue visas on the same day as the interview. If it is determined at your interview that you need to submit additional documents, you can mail them afterwards. An immigrant visa is valid for six months from the date of issuance.
The Consulate General in Sydney is the only office in Australia that processes U.S. immigrant visa applications and conducts immigrant visa interviews. The Consulates General in Melbourne and Perth can accept I-130 petitions for immigrant visas, but do not process immigrant visas or conduct immigrant visa interviews.
Information on these categories of visas is available by mail or e-mail (sydneyiv@state.gov), or from our web site at http://usembassy-australia.state.gov.
Enclosed (if receiving instructions by mail):
Petition, Form I-130, & instructions
CHECKLIST FOR FILING I-130 PETITIONS
FOR SPOUSES, CHILDREN & STEPCHILDREN
Documents to be presented for U.S. citizen petitioner:
1. Fee of US$355.00 or AUD$408.25 in cash, credit card, postal money order, or bank check made payable to the U.S. Consulate General, Sydney. Personal and company checks cannot be accepted. Change can only be provided for transactions conducted in Australian dollar cash.
2. Fully completed and signed I-130, Petition for Alien Relative.
3. Valid U.S. passport and one photocopy of the passport’s biographic and photo page.
4. One photocopy of the passport page showing your valid Australian visa.
5. One photocopy of the passport page showing your arrival stamp into Australia.
6. Valid Australian passport and one photocopy of the passport’s biographic and photo page if you hold dual, American and Australian nationalities.
7. Original evidence of name change (if applicable) and one photocopy.
8. Original evidence of termination of any prior marriages and one photocopy.
9. Original current marriage certificate and one photocopy. (Please note that the marriage certificate you signed on your wedding day is insufficient for immigrant visa purposes. Instead, you must submit a copy issued by the Australian Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages, or from the applicable Court or Registrar offices of the country where you were married. The certificate must bear an original seal of that issuing office.)
10. One photograph, in the format specified at the end of this information sheet.
11. One fully completed biographic data, form G-325A.
12. Evidence of a valid relationship
Documents to be presented for foreign spouse:
1. Original evidence of name change (if applicable) and one photocopy.
2. Original evidence of termination of any prior marriages and one photocopy.
3. One photograph, in the format specified at the end of this information sheet.
4. One fully completed biographic data form G-325A.
Documents to be presented for foreign born children or stepchildren:
•To file petitions for a step-child, the child must have been under the age of 18 at the time the U.S. citizen petitioner married the child’s natural parent.
•Do not submit the biographic data form G325A nor photographs if filing for child or stepchild.
Please present the following for a child or stepchild:
1. Original birth certificate of child/stepchild and one photocopy.
2. Original evidence of name change or adoption decree (if applicable) and one photocopy.
3. Original evidence of termination of any prior marriages of the child’s natural parent (if applicable) and one photocopy.
Format for photographs:
• Frame subject with full face, front view, eyes open
• Make sure photo presents full head from top of hair to bottom of chin; height of head should measure 1 inch to 1-3/8 inches (25 mm to 35 mm)
• Center head within frame (see sketch below)
• Make sure eye height is between 1-1/8 inches to 1-3/8 inches (28 mm and 35 mm) from bottom of photo
• Position subject and lighting so that there are no distracting shadows on the face or background
• Encourage subject to have a natural expression
DOCUMENT #2
CONSULATE GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES
LEVEL 59 MLC CENTRE 19-29 MARTIN PLACE SYDNEY NSW 2000
61-2-9373-9200 sydney.usconsulate.gov/sydney
Under the revised procedures for filing petitions outside of the U.S., embassies and consulates may resume accepting I-130 petitions from American citizen petitioners who have maintained continuous residency in the consular district a minimum of the preceding six months. Petitioners must be able to show that they have permission to reside in the consular district and that they have been doing so for at least six months before filing the petition.
Exceptions to the petitioner’s residency abroad requirement can be made only in cases of true emergency such as life and death or health and safety or when in the national interest. Examples would include minor children who would be unexpectedly left without a caretaker. Family reunification or new marriages alone are not emergencies. Examples of national interest include facilitating the travel of United States military and other U.S. government direct hire employees assigned overseas who are pending imminent transfer on orders and need to petition their spouse and minor children at posts overseas. Individuals who are in Australia on a temporary status, such as student or tourist, would not be considered to meet the residency standard.
All lawful permanent residents, and American citizens’ resident in the United States or with a permanent address in the United States, will file the I-130 petitions at the USCIS Service Center having jurisdiction over their place of residence as indicated on the USCIS website: http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-130.pdf
Quote the language in 9 FAM Appendix N, 201.1,
“U.S. citizens whose principal residence is not in the consular district, and/or who have entered the consular district as a temporary visitor/student/or with limited leave to enter and remain must file the petition with the appropriate USCIS Service Center in the United States.”
Hi all,
Just wondering how long does it usually take for the Australian Police Certificate to be processed?
Also, I am planning to DCF through Sydney. If we file the I-130 in September and have everything in order is it likely I can have my visa in hand by the following January?
Just wondering how long does it usually take for the Australian Police Certificate to be processed?
Also, I am planning to DCF through Sydney. If we file the I-130 in September and have everything in order is it likely I can have my visa in hand by the following January?
QUOTE(kaffy @ Jun 13 2008, 02:35 PM)
Hi all,
Just wondering how long does it usually take for the Australian Police Certificate to be processed?
Also, I am planning to DCF through Sydney. If we file the I-130 in September and have everything in order is it likely I can have my visa in hand by the following January?
Just wondering how long does it usually take for the Australian Police Certificate to be processed?
Also, I am planning to DCF through Sydney. If we file the I-130 in September and have everything in order is it likely I can have my visa in hand by the following January?
I just sent away a federal police check for my permanent residency application in Australia and they told me on avg. it takes 4 weeks. I'm not sure if it's different for state police checks though. Maybe check the state police website??
I'm not sure you file your police check with the I-130. You need your police check for the second round of forms from what I understand, but if you ran in now it would still be valid for the second round anyways, assuming your interview was within 6 months. The Sydney consulate is pretty good about answering questions so maybe try and e-mail them and they normally respond within a few days.
Good luck!
I found out through the Queensland police that it takes them 2-4 weeks. Not too bad a wait
I wonder how long it takes to get a Medical Check appointment..
I wonder how long it takes to get a Medical Check appointment..
QUOTE(kaffy @ Jun 16 2008, 11:20 PM)
I wonder how long it takes to get a Medical Check appointment..
Answering my own question.. about a one week wait for an appointment in Brisbane, which is fairly quick I'd say
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