Dear Folks;

My wife was approved for a CR-1 yesterday in Montreal. Thank the Lord!

We stayed across the street at La Tour Centre Ville. 514-866-8861. Parking is underground for $16.50 per day. It was a nice room with a Kitchenette that we reserved at Orbitz.com for $80.00 CAD.
Hotel staff told us we could check out after the 12:00 check out time if our interview lasted longer than that.

According to reviews, this Hotel is a lot nicer than Travelodge or Days Inn a few blocks away.

The Hotel Staff was friendly and informed us that briefcases, satchels, and large purses are not allowed in the consulate.
This was helpful advice.
When we arrived at the entrance to the Consulate, a security officer was at the door having people line up on the side walk and informing attendees that their briefcases, and backpacks, etc. were not allowed inside. People started scattering in all directions to find a place to check their packs/purses. Some had to walk 5 blocks or so till they found someone willing to check it.

No electronics of any kind are accepted. This includes cell phones, automatic car door openers, flashlights, etc.

It appears that security begins checking people in at 8:00 even though the door says "8:30."

We waited in the lobby for about three hours. This included being called to present our paperwork that we had brought along followed by the actual interview. Our Xpress-post envelope was too small even though I had specifically asked for the right size. This means that you must make sure that the envelope matches the dimensions and not rely on a Canada Post employee to get you the right size envelope. The consular officer was very nice, apologetic for the long wait, and after a few pointed questions we were on our way.

Some waited in the lobby a lot longer than what we did.

Hope your interviews go well.

Ernie and Cathy

P.S. Perhaps there should be a Guide with tips about interviews in Montreal?

Congratulations!!! Based on our experience I would expect your visa to arrive in about a week - they don't seem to be in such a hurry about the CR1's.

CONGRATULATIONSSSSSSSSS

Congratulations! Wonderful news!


Carla

Congrats! there are reviews of the Mtl consulate, look at the top of the page "Embassy Uscis reviews" There a lo tof features on VJ people forget about, lol

congrats!!!

Congrats!

Congratulations on you approval!!!