Full Version: July filers
To all the " students" I have a question...What exactly are you studying? I started the other day and studied the question on the free booklet they gave me when I went for my biometrics appointment in december...I was pleased to see it took me about an hour or so to learn it all (although there are many really easy questions). Are you studying just the syntetic answers or all that jazz that's written to explain them?
I've learned the actual answers - it does state (on the indside cover in bold print) that we'll only be tested on the actual questions, not the extra information.
I have read it all very carefully though, as the extra info helps in remembering the answers.
Good luck to all awaiting interview and testing - I'm looking forward to reporting back and reading all your experiences. :-)
I have read it all very carefully though, as the extra info helps in remembering the answers.
Good luck to all awaiting interview and testing - I'm looking forward to reporting back and reading all your experiences. :-)
QUOTE(annatenna @ Apr 3 2008, 07:01 PM) 
I've learned the actual answers - it does state (on the indside cover in bold print) that we'll only be tested on the actual questions, not the extra information.
I have read it all very carefully though, as the extra info helps in remembering the answers.
Good luck to all awaiting interview and testing - I'm looking forward to reporting back and reading all your experiences. :-)
I have read it all very carefully though, as the extra info helps in remembering the answers.
Good luck to all awaiting interview and testing - I'm looking forward to reporting back and reading all your experiences. :-)
Yeah, that's what I am doing as well...it is really not that hard! I have learned everything in very little time, now I guess I will keep on repeating them everyday until the interview...I just hope I won't black out in front of the IO
I'll be looking forward to reading all of your positive experiences at the interviews!
SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEW IN BALTIMORE!!!
Had an appointment for 2:20pm. Although it says in the letter not to show up more than 30 mins early, we showed up at 1:20. Turns out that they interview in blocks based on assigned interview time, but they do keep track of who comes in when during that block. So, we were still among the first called when they got to the 2:20 block. Of course, they didn't get to the 2:20 block until after 3.
As for the interview itself, wifey tells me that she was asked 6 of the civics questions, but not the full 10 because she got all 6 right. All 6 were straight out of the study guide. She was asked to write a short sentence. She was then asked several of the questions on the N-400 form, I guess to verify she gave the same answers. The interviewer looked at the tax records, but did not keep them. She did keep the copies of utility bills as proof of residence and cohabitation. All told, took about 10 minutes.
After the successful interview, we had to go to another waiting room. Waited about 30 mins to get called up to schedule oath ceremony. We are scheduled for 14 April, so not a very long wait, and I certainly don't mind an excuse to take a Monday afternoon off.
Had an appointment for 2:20pm. Although it says in the letter not to show up more than 30 mins early, we showed up at 1:20. Turns out that they interview in blocks based on assigned interview time, but they do keep track of who comes in when during that block. So, we were still among the first called when they got to the 2:20 block. Of course, they didn't get to the 2:20 block until after 3.
As for the interview itself, wifey tells me that she was asked 6 of the civics questions, but not the full 10 because she got all 6 right. All 6 were straight out of the study guide. She was asked to write a short sentence. She was then asked several of the questions on the N-400 form, I guess to verify she gave the same answers. The interviewer looked at the tax records, but did not keep them. She did keep the copies of utility bills as proof of residence and cohabitation. All told, took about 10 minutes.
After the successful interview, we had to go to another waiting room. Waited about 30 mins to get called up to schedule oath ceremony. We are scheduled for 14 April, so not a very long wait, and I certainly don't mind an excuse to take a Monday afternoon off.
SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEW IN BALTIMORE!!!
Had an appointment for 2:20pm. Although it says in the letter not to show up more than 30 mins early, we showed up at 1:20. Turns out that they interview in blocks based on assigned interview time, but they do keep track of who comes in when during that block. So, we were still among the first called when they got to the 2:20 block. Of course, they didn't get to the 2:20 block until after 3.
As for the interview itself, wifey tells me that she was asked 6 of the civics questions, but not the full 10 because she got all 6 right. All 6 were straight out of the study guide. She was asked to write a short sentence. She was then asked several of the questions on the N-400 form, I guess to verify she gave the same answers. The interviewer looked at the tax records, but did not keep them. She did keep the copies of utility bills as proof of residence and cohabitation. All told, took about 10 minutes.
After the successful interview, we had to go to another waiting room. Waited about 30 mins to get called up to schedule oath ceremony. We are scheduled for 14 April, so not a very long wait, and I certainly don't mind an excuse to take a Monday afternoon off.
CONGRATULATIONS ! It's almost over.
Had an appointment for 2:20pm. Although it says in the letter not to show up more than 30 mins early, we showed up at 1:20. Turns out that they interview in blocks based on assigned interview time, but they do keep track of who comes in when during that block. So, we were still among the first called when they got to the 2:20 block. Of course, they didn't get to the 2:20 block until after 3.
As for the interview itself, wifey tells me that she was asked 6 of the civics questions, but not the full 10 because she got all 6 right. All 6 were straight out of the study guide. She was asked to write a short sentence. She was then asked several of the questions on the N-400 form, I guess to verify she gave the same answers. The interviewer looked at the tax records, but did not keep them. She did keep the copies of utility bills as proof of residence and cohabitation. All told, took about 10 minutes.
After the successful interview, we had to go to another waiting room. Waited about 30 mins to get called up to schedule oath ceremony. We are scheduled for 14 April, so not a very long wait, and I certainly don't mind an excuse to take a Monday afternoon off.
CONGRATULATIONS ! It's almost over.
QUOTE(Sherlock @ Apr 5 2008, 08:15 PM)
SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEW IN BALTIMORE!!!
Had an appointment for 2:20pm. Although it says in the letter not to show up more than 30 mins early, we showed up at 1:20. Turns out that they interview in blocks based on assigned interview time, but they do keep track of who comes in when during that block. So, we were still among the first called when they got to the 2:20 block. Of course, they didn't get to the 2:20 block until after 3.
As for the interview itself, wifey tells me that she was asked 6 of the civics questions, but not the full 10 because she got all 6 right. All 6 were straight out of the study guide. She was asked to write a short sentence. She was then asked several of the questions on the N-400 form, I guess to verify she gave the same answers. The interviewer looked at the tax records, but did not keep them. She did keep the copies of utility bills as proof of residence and cohabitation. All told, took about 10 minutes.
After the successful interview, we had to go to another waiting room. Waited about 30 mins to get called up to schedule oath ceremony. We are scheduled for 14 April, so not a very long wait, and I certainly don't mind an excuse to take a Monday afternoon off.
Had an appointment for 2:20pm. Although it says in the letter not to show up more than 30 mins early, we showed up at 1:20. Turns out that they interview in blocks based on assigned interview time, but they do keep track of who comes in when during that block. So, we were still among the first called when they got to the 2:20 block. Of course, they didn't get to the 2:20 block until after 3.
As for the interview itself, wifey tells me that she was asked 6 of the civics questions, but not the full 10 because she got all 6 right. All 6 were straight out of the study guide. She was asked to write a short sentence. She was then asked several of the questions on the N-400 form, I guess to verify she gave the same answers. The interviewer looked at the tax records, but did not keep them. She did keep the copies of utility bills as proof of residence and cohabitation. All told, took about 10 minutes.
After the successful interview, we had to go to another waiting room. Waited about 30 mins to get called up to schedule oath ceremony. We are scheduled for 14 April, so not a very long wait, and I certainly don't mind an excuse to take a Monday afternoon off.
CONGRATS!!!
QUOTE(Sherlock @ Apr 5 2008, 08:15 PM)
SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEW IN BALTIMORE!!!
Had an appointment for 2:20pm. Although it says in the letter not to show up more than 30 mins early, we showed up at 1:20. Turns out that they interview in blocks based on assigned interview time, but they do keep track of who comes in when during that block. So, we were still among the first called when they got to the 2:20 block. Of course, they didn't get to the 2:20 block until after 3.
As for the interview itself, wifey tells me that she was asked 6 of the civics questions, but not the full 10 because she got all 6 right. All 6 were straight out of the study guide. She was asked to write a short sentence. She was then asked several of the questions on the N-400 form, I guess to verify she gave the same answers. The interviewer looked at the tax records, but did not keep them. She did keep the copies of utility bills as proof of residence and cohabitation. All told, took about 10 minutes.
After the successful interview, we had to go to another waiting room. Waited about 30 mins to get called up to schedule oath ceremony. We are scheduled for 14 April, so not a very long wait, and I certainly don't mind an excuse to take a Monday afternoon off.
Had an appointment for 2:20pm. Although it says in the letter not to show up more than 30 mins early, we showed up at 1:20. Turns out that they interview in blocks based on assigned interview time, but they do keep track of who comes in when during that block. So, we were still among the first called when they got to the 2:20 block. Of course, they didn't get to the 2:20 block until after 3.
As for the interview itself, wifey tells me that she was asked 6 of the civics questions, but not the full 10 because she got all 6 right. All 6 were straight out of the study guide. She was asked to write a short sentence. She was then asked several of the questions on the N-400 form, I guess to verify she gave the same answers. The interviewer looked at the tax records, but did not keep them. She did keep the copies of utility bills as proof of residence and cohabitation. All told, took about 10 minutes.
After the successful interview, we had to go to another waiting room. Waited about 30 mins to get called up to schedule oath ceremony. We are scheduled for 14 April, so not a very long wait, and I certainly don't mind an excuse to take a Monday afternoon off.
Congratulations!
We will do it soon too
Congratulations to those who successfully had their interviews. It's a wonderful achievement getting your citizenship!
Mine is tomorrow, I believe yours is too Churipu? All the best!
Mine is tomorrow, I believe yours is too Churipu? All the best!
QUOTE(Arlie1979 @ Apr 7 2008, 11:45 AM)
Congratulations to those who successfully had their interviews. It's a wonderful achievement getting your citizenship!
Mine is tomorrow, I believe yours is too Churipu? All the best!
Mine is tomorrow, I believe yours is too Churipu? All the best!
Good luck, can't wait to read your good news!
No, mine is may 8th...soon enough
Hey everyone, I passed my interview!!
Here goes;
My appointment was set for 1pm at the Louisville, KY office so we got there at 12:40pm. There was only one attendant there and so I handed her my interview notice and permanent resident card. We got told to take a seat so we waited about 20 minutes and a little after 1pm I was called in by an officer Bennett. She was extremely nice and polite. First thing she did was swear me in. She then asked me was if I was willing to take the oath, bear arms and join the armed forces if needed etc. to which I said yes to all. Then she went through my actual N-400 application and basically asked me the questions that were on that. Following this, I did a reading test for which I had to read a sentence, and then I had to do a writing test for which I had to write another sentence. After these two things, thats when I had to answer 10 civics and history questions. All of which I got right. They are all straight from the booklet they provide.
After all the testing part she informed me that she had approved me for citizenship and that I should receive a letter in the mail informing me of when the oath taking ceremony was being held. I asked her if she had an indication of when it would be and she had said that they have been telling people that it may take 2-3 months, however she had been talking to a colleague that day who had said that it was actually running at 4-6 months (yikes).
The only two additional documents I provided was the lease to our apartment that had both mine and my husbands signatures and our insurance bill that had both of us on our mailing address. We had moved since I submitted my N-400 application so needed to provided current info of our co-habitation. Also I had in my file my citation for not providing evidence of insurance a while back which she had asked me about.
All in all painless and straight forward.
I hope everyone elses experience is as good as mine and best wishes to you all!
Here goes;
My appointment was set for 1pm at the Louisville, KY office so we got there at 12:40pm. There was only one attendant there and so I handed her my interview notice and permanent resident card. We got told to take a seat so we waited about 20 minutes and a little after 1pm I was called in by an officer Bennett. She was extremely nice and polite. First thing she did was swear me in. She then asked me was if I was willing to take the oath, bear arms and join the armed forces if needed etc. to which I said yes to all. Then she went through my actual N-400 application and basically asked me the questions that were on that. Following this, I did a reading test for which I had to read a sentence, and then I had to do a writing test for which I had to write another sentence. After these two things, thats when I had to answer 10 civics and history questions. All of which I got right. They are all straight from the booklet they provide.
After all the testing part she informed me that she had approved me for citizenship and that I should receive a letter in the mail informing me of when the oath taking ceremony was being held. I asked her if she had an indication of when it would be and she had said that they have been telling people that it may take 2-3 months, however she had been talking to a colleague that day who had said that it was actually running at 4-6 months (yikes).
The only two additional documents I provided was the lease to our apartment that had both mine and my husbands signatures and our insurance bill that had both of us on our mailing address. We had moved since I submitted my N-400 application so needed to provided current info of our co-habitation. Also I had in my file my citation for not providing evidence of insurance a while back which she had asked me about.
All in all painless and straight forward.
I hope everyone elses experience is as good as mine and best wishes to you all!
QUOTE(Arlie1979 @ Apr 8 2008, 03:43 PM)
Hey everyone, I passed my interview!!
Here goes;
from the booklet they provide.
After all the testing part she informed me that she had approved me for citizenship and that I should receive a letter in the mail informing me of when the oath taking ceremony was being held. I asked her if she had an indication of when it would be and she had said that they have been telling people
My appointment was set for 1pm at the Louisville, KY office so we got there at 12:40pm. There was only one attendant there and so I handed her my interview notice and permanent resident card. We got told to take a seat so we waited about 20 minutes and a little after 1pm I was called in by an officer Bennett. She was extremely nice and polite. First thing she did was swear me in. She then asked me was if I was willing to take the oath, bear arms and join the armed forces if needed etc. to which I said yes to all. Then she went through my actual N-400 application and basically asked me the questions that were on that. Following this, I did a reading test for which I had to read a sentence, and then I had to do a writing test for which I had to write another sentence. After these two things, thats when I had to answer 10 civics and history questions. All of which I got right. They are all straightthat it may take 2-3 months, however she had been talking to a colleague that day who had said that it was actually running at 4-6 months (yikes).
The only two additional documents I provided was the lease to our apartment that had both mine and my husbands signatures and our insurance bill that had both of us on our mailing address. We had moved since I submitted my N-400 application so needed to provided current info of our co-habitation. Also I had in my file my citation for not providing evidence of insurance a while back which she had asked me about.
All in all painless and straight forward.
I hope everyone elses experience is as good as mine and best wishes to you all!
Here goes;
from the booklet they provide.
After all the testing part she informed me that she had approved me for citizenship and that I should receive a letter in the mail informing me of when the oath taking ceremony was being held. I asked her if she had an indication of when it would be and she had said that they have been telling people
My appointment was set for 1pm at the Louisville, KY office so we got there at 12:40pm. There was only one attendant there and so I handed her my interview notice and permanent resident card. We got told to take a seat so we waited about 20 minutes and a little after 1pm I was called in by an officer Bennett. She was extremely nice and polite. First thing she did was swear me in. She then asked me was if I was willing to take the oath, bear arms and join the armed forces if needed etc. to which I said yes to all. Then she went through my actual N-400 application and basically asked me the questions that were on that. Following this, I did a reading test for which I had to read a sentence, and then I had to do a writing test for which I had to write another sentence. After these two things, thats when I had to answer 10 civics and history questions. All of which I got right. They are all straightthat it may take 2-3 months, however she had been talking to a colleague that day who had said that it was actually running at 4-6 months (yikes).
The only two additional documents I provided was the lease to our apartment that had both mine and my husbands signatures and our insurance bill that had both of us on our mailing address. We had moved since I submitted my N-400 application so needed to provided current info of our co-habitation. Also I had in my file my citation for not providing evidence of insurance a while back which she had asked me about.
All in all painless and straight forward.
I hope everyone elses experience is as good as mine and best wishes to you all!
CONGRATS!!
Hopefully you will get your Oath date soon enough!
QUOTE(Sherlock @ Apr 5 2008, 07:15 PM)
SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEW IN BALTIMORE!!!
Had an appointment for 2:20pm. Although it says in the letter not to show up more than 30 mins early, we showed up at 1:20. Turns out that they interview in blocks based on assigned interview time, but they do keep track of who comes in when during that block. So, we were still among the first called when they got to the 2:20 block. Of course, they didn't get to the 2:20 block until after 3.
As for the interview itself, wifey tells me that she was asked 6 of the civics questions, but not the full 10 because she got all 6 right. All 6 were straight out of the study guide. She was asked to write a short sentence. She was then asked several of the questions on the N-400 form, I guess to verify she gave the same answers. The interviewer looked at the tax records, but did not keep them. She did keep the copies of utility bills as proof of residence and cohabitation. All told, took about 10 minutes.
After the successful interview, we had to go to another waiting room. Waited about 30 mins to get called up to schedule oath ceremony. We are scheduled for 14 April, so not a very long wait, and I certainly don't mind an excuse to take a Monday afternoon off.
Had an appointment for 2:20pm. Although it says in the letter not to show up more than 30 mins early, we showed up at 1:20. Turns out that they interview in blocks based on assigned interview time, but they do keep track of who comes in when during that block. So, we were still among the first called when they got to the 2:20 block. Of course, they didn't get to the 2:20 block until after 3.
As for the interview itself, wifey tells me that she was asked 6 of the civics questions, but not the full 10 because she got all 6 right. All 6 were straight out of the study guide. She was asked to write a short sentence. She was then asked several of the questions on the N-400 form, I guess to verify she gave the same answers. The interviewer looked at the tax records, but did not keep them. She did keep the copies of utility bills as proof of residence and cohabitation. All told, took about 10 minutes.
After the successful interview, we had to go to another waiting room. Waited about 30 mins to get called up to schedule oath ceremony. We are scheduled for 14 April, so not a very long wait, and I certainly don't mind an excuse to take a Monday afternoon off.
Congrats!! Thnx for the information. Mine is coming up next Tuesday and I am super nervous. My case is a little different from everyone..so I don't even know what they are going to ask me!
Anyway~ I appreciate your information about the interview process. It's nice to know
Tena
Had my interview today. Passed it:D
Was asked 10 questions. Answered all 10 correctly. The ones I remember are:
1. Who lives in the White House.
2. What are changes to the constitution called.
3. What do the stripes on the flag represent.
4. What is the highest court in the U.S.
5. Who said give me liberty or give me death?
6. What was the holiday celebrated for the first time by American colonies
7. Who makes the Federal laws in the U.S
8. Independence day celebrates independence from whom?
9. The dreaded question: name the 13 original colonies.
10. I dont remember.
Was asked to read the following sentence "I have three children".
Was asked to write the following sentence "I am very happy today".
I was the first one scheduled for interview on that day and the IO was extremely efficient and I was done in under 20 minutes.
I had to sign at 2 locations on the N-400 form I had sent in as well as along the passport photos that I had sent with the form.
I was asked to give recent documents that proved that my wife and I were co-habitating (my app is based on marriage). They also ask if your wife had accompanied you. Mine hadn't, but I think that if your spouse does - then that could be a favorable remark in your application. I gave them a copy of the lease document and some recent insurance papers.
I was impressed at how quickly the IO processed me.
I was told that there is a big oath ceremony in Denver in May. I hope that my application clears it in time - so that I can be sworn in on that day.
Application sent: 07.28.2007
Received by INS: 07.30.2007
Check cleared : 10.26.2007 (paid old fees)
Notice of action : 11.09.2007
Fingerprint Notice: 11.13.2007
Fingerprints Taken: 12.04.2007
Interview letter: 02.29.2008
Interview: 04.11.2008 (Denver)
Was asked 10 questions. Answered all 10 correctly. The ones I remember are:
1. Who lives in the White House.
2. What are changes to the constitution called.
3. What do the stripes on the flag represent.
4. What is the highest court in the U.S.
5. Who said give me liberty or give me death?
6. What was the holiday celebrated for the first time by American colonies
7. Who makes the Federal laws in the U.S
8. Independence day celebrates independence from whom?
9. The dreaded question: name the 13 original colonies.
10. I dont remember.
Was asked to read the following sentence "I have three children".
Was asked to write the following sentence "I am very happy today".
I was the first one scheduled for interview on that day and the IO was extremely efficient and I was done in under 20 minutes.
I had to sign at 2 locations on the N-400 form I had sent in as well as along the passport photos that I had sent with the form.
I was asked to give recent documents that proved that my wife and I were co-habitating (my app is based on marriage). They also ask if your wife had accompanied you. Mine hadn't, but I think that if your spouse does - then that could be a favorable remark in your application. I gave them a copy of the lease document and some recent insurance papers.
I was impressed at how quickly the IO processed me.
I was told that there is a big oath ceremony in Denver in May. I hope that my application clears it in time - so that I can be sworn in on that day.
Application sent: 07.28.2007
Received by INS: 07.30.2007
Check cleared : 10.26.2007 (paid old fees)
Notice of action : 11.09.2007
Fingerprint Notice: 11.13.2007
Fingerprints Taken: 12.04.2007
Interview letter: 02.29.2008
Interview: 04.11.2008 (Denver)
QUOTE(rajah @ Apr 11 2008, 12:29 PM)
Had my interview today. Passed it:D
Was asked 10 questions. Answered all 10 correctly. The ones I remember are:
1. Who lives in the White House.
2. What are changes to the constitution called.
3. What do the stripes on the flag represent.
4. What is the highest court in the U.S.
5. Who said give me liberty or give me death?
6. What was the holiday celebrated for the first time by American colonies
7. Who makes the Federal laws in the U.S
8. Independence day celebrates independence from whom?
9. The dreaded question: name the 13 original colonies.
10. I dont remember.
Was asked to read the following sentence "I have three children".
Was asked to write the following sentence "I am very happy today".
I was the first one scheduled for interview on that day and the IO was extremely efficient and I was done in under 20 minutes.
I had to sign at 2 locations on the N-400 form I had sent in as well as along the passport photos that I had sent with the form.
I was asked to give recent documents that proved that my wife and I were co-habitating (my app is based on marriage). They also ask if your wife had accompanied you. Mine hadn't, but I think that if your spouse does - then that could be a favorable remark in your application. I gave them a copy of the lease document and some recent insurance papers.
I was impressed at how quickly the IO processed me.
I was told that there is a big oath ceremony in Denver in May. I hope that my application clears it in time - so that I can be sworn in on that day.
Application sent: 07.28.2007
Received by INS: 07.30.2007
Check cleared : 10.26.2007 (paid old fees)
Notice of action : 11.09.2007
Fingerprint Notice: 11.13.2007
Fingerprints Taken: 12.04.2007
Interview letter: 02.29.2008
Interview: 04.11.2008 (Denver)
Was asked 10 questions. Answered all 10 correctly. The ones I remember are:
1. Who lives in the White House.
2. What are changes to the constitution called.
3. What do the stripes on the flag represent.
4. What is the highest court in the U.S.
5. Who said give me liberty or give me death?
6. What was the holiday celebrated for the first time by American colonies
7. Who makes the Federal laws in the U.S
8. Independence day celebrates independence from whom?
9. The dreaded question: name the 13 original colonies.
10. I dont remember.
Was asked to read the following sentence "I have three children".
Was asked to write the following sentence "I am very happy today".
I was the first one scheduled for interview on that day and the IO was extremely efficient and I was done in under 20 minutes.
I had to sign at 2 locations on the N-400 form I had sent in as well as along the passport photos that I had sent with the form.
I was asked to give recent documents that proved that my wife and I were co-habitating (my app is based on marriage). They also ask if your wife had accompanied you. Mine hadn't, but I think that if your spouse does - then that could be a favorable remark in your application. I gave them a copy of the lease document and some recent insurance papers.
I was impressed at how quickly the IO processed me.
I was told that there is a big oath ceremony in Denver in May. I hope that my application clears it in time - so that I can be sworn in on that day.
Application sent: 07.28.2007
Received by INS: 07.30.2007
Check cleared : 10.26.2007 (paid old fees)
Notice of action : 11.09.2007
Fingerprint Notice: 11.13.2007
Fingerprints Taken: 12.04.2007
Interview letter: 02.29.2008
Interview: 04.11.2008 (Denver)
congratulations
CONGRATS!
Congratulations
Congratulations to all of you who passed interview recently!!! 
I'd hoped to be writing a similar post but instead it's a tale of woe!
I'd hoped to be reporting back with useful information about my interview, instead it's a tale of woe.
We arrived at the USCIS office, all geared up for my citizenship interview scheduled 1.05pm, 11 April. We waited in a room, where the temperature was fit only for chilling meat, for half an hour before, and half an hour after the scheduled time, only to be told that two interviewing officers, of the three available, had had to go home sick that morning and the remaining officer's list was full, she could take no more interviews.
They had telephoned our home earlier with no response. We'd have left early even had we not decided to stay over the previous night, so a morning call after 9am would have made no difference. The journey is around 80 miles, and the weather had been very iffy for a couple of days with floods, tornado watches and violent storms. We did not want to risk missing this appointment for which I'd been waiting since last July.
We saw another applicant, the only other one present, sent away earlier, and because we were not approached at that time, around ten minutes before my appointment, felt that I must be listed with the remaining interviewing officer. It was not until half an hour after my scheduled time that we were given the bad news .
We watched two people who arrived long after we did, accompanied by an attorney, ushered in for their interview. Worse, when I asked the bearer of bad tidings, who was very apologetic, when I could expect re-scheduling he said the rest of April and all of May has been scheduled already it will be June or July for me. I had to bite my tongue - very hard.
I'd already been put to the inconvenience of a second visit and overnight stay for a re-take of fingerprints - probably due to the operative's incompetence the first time around - then there was the 17 week wait I had to even get a receipt for my $400 cheque and acknowledgement of my application. I applied on 26 July 2007.
I'm considering making a complaint, because although staff sickness can't be foreseen, I think it's not fair that I have to be put at the back of the queue for another appointment. I'm really feeling deflated!
I'd hoped to be writing a similar post but instead it's a tale of woe!
I'd hoped to be reporting back with useful information about my interview, instead it's a tale of woe.
We arrived at the USCIS office, all geared up for my citizenship interview scheduled 1.05pm, 11 April. We waited in a room, where the temperature was fit only for chilling meat, for half an hour before, and half an hour after the scheduled time, only to be told that two interviewing officers, of the three available, had had to go home sick that morning and the remaining officer's list was full, she could take no more interviews.
They had telephoned our home earlier with no response. We'd have left early even had we not decided to stay over the previous night, so a morning call after 9am would have made no difference. The journey is around 80 miles, and the weather had been very iffy for a couple of days with floods, tornado watches and violent storms. We did not want to risk missing this appointment for which I'd been waiting since last July.
We saw another applicant, the only other one present, sent away earlier, and because we were not approached at that time, around ten minutes before my appointment, felt that I must be listed with the remaining interviewing officer. It was not until half an hour after my scheduled time that we were given the bad news .
We watched two people who arrived long after we did, accompanied by an attorney, ushered in for their interview. Worse, when I asked the bearer of bad tidings, who was very apologetic, when I could expect re-scheduling he said the rest of April and all of May has been scheduled already it will be June or July for me. I had to bite my tongue - very hard.
I'd already been put to the inconvenience of a second visit and overnight stay for a re-take of fingerprints - probably due to the operative's incompetence the first time around - then there was the 17 week wait I had to even get a receipt for my $400 cheque and acknowledgement of my application. I applied on 26 July 2007.
I'm considering making a complaint, because although staff sickness can't be foreseen, I think it's not fair that I have to be put at the back of the queue for another appointment. I'm really feeling deflated!
Annatenna I am speechless...I am so sorry this happened!!! I know it's very little consolation, but at least june/july will still give you the opportunity to be able to vote in november...although yes, it is very frustrating considering you filed almost a year ago!
Hang in there, best of luck to you the next time, please let us know when they reschedule your interview.
BTW I cannot believe they don't have a back-up plan in case something like this happens...oh well I am not that surprised...
Hang in there, best of luck to you the next time, please let us know when they reschedule your interview.
BTW I cannot believe they don't have a back-up plan in case something like this happens...oh well I am not that surprised...
Like everyone else on this forum we feel sorry for you. We used to live in that part of the country and know what the weather conditions are like this time of year, so we know what it's like to make that drive. I would defintely make some noise with your congressional rep and both senators, and I would write Gonzales too.
Thank you Churipu and nscvet for your thoughts.
I'll keep updating. I've drafted a letter to the office (a polite one) pointing out a couple of things. I'll sleep on it and post it tomorrow if I'm of the same mind. If I get a brush off, then I intend to complain or at least inform a senator or congressperson, or maybe on of the judiciary committe who have been pushing USCIS to get their act together.
thanks for being understanding - it helps a lot - as you all know only too well :-)
I'll keep updating. I've drafted a letter to the office (a polite one) pointing out a couple of things. I'll sleep on it and post it tomorrow if I'm of the same mind. If I get a brush off, then I intend to complain or at least inform a senator or congressperson, or maybe on of the judiciary committe who have been pushing USCIS to get their act together.
thanks for being understanding - it helps a lot - as you all know only too well :-)
OATH Taking in Baltimore.
Ceremony letter said 3pm. Didn't want to risk traffic, so we got there way early, like 1:45. When we got to security, there was a sign that said no cameras. Didn't ask, just took it at it's word, and took the camera back to the car. NOTE: If you tell them you're bringing the camera for a ceremony, they'll let you bring it in. Wish I would have known. By the time we found out, it was too late, and I had to make do with my cell phone camera.
Waited until a little past 3, then they took us all as a group up to the 7th floor. After being seated, they had everyone go through processing where they took the greencard and had your verify the information on the certificate was correct. There were 5 people who they did not have certificates for, so we had to wait while they verified their status, then brought up their certificates.
Finally got to the ceremony. Played national anthem, then recited the oath as a group. Then all said the pledge of allegiance.
DVD message from the president, then handed out certificates and little flag. Went back down in group (about 56 new citizens, plus guests).
Left about 4:15. Took wifey to Red Lobster for her citizenship dinner.
Ceremony letter said 3pm. Didn't want to risk traffic, so we got there way early, like 1:45. When we got to security, there was a sign that said no cameras. Didn't ask, just took it at it's word, and took the camera back to the car. NOTE: If you tell them you're bringing the camera for a ceremony, they'll let you bring it in. Wish I would have known. By the time we found out, it was too late, and I had to make do with my cell phone camera.
Waited until a little past 3, then they took us all as a group up to the 7th floor. After being seated, they had everyone go through processing where they took the greencard and had your verify the information on the certificate was correct. There were 5 people who they did not have certificates for, so we had to wait while they verified their status, then brought up their certificates.
Finally got to the ceremony. Played national anthem, then recited the oath as a group. Then all said the pledge of allegiance.
DVD message from the president, then handed out certificates and little flag. Went back down in group (about 56 new citizens, plus guests).
Left about 4:15. Took wifey to Red Lobster for her citizenship dinner.
QUOTE(Sherlock @ Apr 14 2008, 07:19 PM)
OATH Taking in Baltimore.
Ceremony letter said 3pm. Didn't want to risk traffic, so we got there way early, like 1:45. When we got to security, there was a sign that said no cameras. Didn't ask, just took it at it's word, and took the camera back to the car. NOTE: If you tell them you're bringing the camera for a ceremony, they'll let you bring it in. Wish I would have known. By the time we found out, it was too late, and I had to make do with my cell phone camera.
Waited until a little past 3, then they took us all as a group up to the 7th floor. After being seated, they had everyone go through processing where they took the greencard and had your verify the information on the certificate was correct. There were 5 people who they did not have certificates for, so we had to wait while they verified their status, then brought up their certificates.
Finally got to the ceremony. Played national anthem, then recited the oath as a group. Then all said the pledge of allegiance.
DVD message from the president, then handed out certificates and little flag. Went back down in group (about 56 new citizens, plus guests).
Left about 4:15. Took wifey to Red Lobster for her citizenship dinner.
Ceremony letter said 3pm. Didn't want to risk traffic, so we got there way early, like 1:45. When we got to security, there was a sign that said no cameras. Didn't ask, just took it at it's word, and took the camera back to the car. NOTE: If you tell them you're bringing the camera for a ceremony, they'll let you bring it in. Wish I would have known. By the time we found out, it was too late, and I had to make do with my cell phone camera.
Waited until a little past 3, then they took us all as a group up to the 7th floor. After being seated, they had everyone go through processing where they took the greencard and had your verify the information on the certificate was correct. There were 5 people who they did not have certificates for, so we had to wait while they verified their status, then brought up their certificates.
Finally got to the ceremony. Played national anthem, then recited the oath as a group. Then all said the pledge of allegiance.
DVD message from the president, then handed out certificates and little flag. Went back down in group (about 56 new citizens, plus guests).
Left about 4:15. Took wifey to Red Lobster for her citizenship dinner.
Congratulations! That is wonderful - so glad it is over for you all.
Can I take my husband with me to the oath ceremony? Would they let him in?
Thanks
Thanks
QUOTE(RICHIE07 @ Apr 15 2008, 12:46 AM)
Can I take my husband with me to the oath ceremony? Would they let him in?
Thanks
Thanks
Yes, there were spouses and even a few with larger family contingents. May want to ask your field office if they have an actual limit.
Congrats Sherlock! I wanted to ask...someone posted that you can apply for your passport at the Oath ceremony and that it is supposedly faster?? Is that what you guys did in Baltimore? Also...they give the naturalization certificates at the Oath, don't they?
The reason why I ask is because as soon as I become a citizen I need all my stuff in order (esp passport of course) ASAP because we are due to move to Europe with my hubby's job...they are pretty much waiting on me to complete everything.
The reason why I ask is because as soon as I become a citizen I need all my stuff in order (esp passport of course) ASAP because we are due to move to Europe with my hubby's job...they are pretty much waiting on me to complete everything.
QUOTE(annatenna @ Apr 12 2008, 08:04 AM)
Congratulations to all of you who passed interview recently!!!
I'd hoped to be writing a similar post but instead it's a tale of woe!
I'd hoped to be reporting back with useful information about my interview, instead it's a tale of woe.
We arrived at the USCIS office, all geared up for my citizenship interview scheduled 1.05pm, 11 April. We waited in a room, where the temperature was fit only for chilling meat, for half an hour before, and half an hour after the scheduled time, only to be told that two interviewing officers, of the three available, had had to go home sick that morning and the remaining officer's list was full, she could take no more interviews.
They had telephoned our home earlier with no response. We'd have left early even had we not decided to stay over the previous night, so a morning call after 9am would have made no difference. The journey is around 80 miles, and the weather had been very iffy for a couple of days with floods, tornado watches and violent storms. We did not want to risk missing this appointment for which I'd been waiting since last July.
We saw another applicant, the only other one present, sent away earlier, and because we were not approached at that time, around ten minutes before my appointment, felt that I must be listed with the remaining interviewing officer. It was not until half an hour after my scheduled time that we were given the bad news .
We watched two people who arrived long after we did, accompanied by an attorney, ushered in for their interview. Worse, when I asked the bearer of bad tidings, who was very apologetic, when I could expect re-scheduling he said the rest of April and all of May has been scheduled already it will be June or July for me. I had to bite my tongue - very hard.
I'd already been put to the inconvenience of a second visit and overnight stay for a re-take of fingerprints - probably due to the operative's incompetence the first time around - then there was the 17 week wait I had to even get a receipt for my $400 cheque and acknowledgement of my application. I applied on 26 July 2007.
I'm considering making a complaint, because although staff sickness can't be foreseen, I think it's not fair that I have to be put at the back of the queue for another appointment. I'm really feeling deflated!
I'd hoped to be writing a similar post but instead it's a tale of woe!
I'd hoped to be reporting back with useful information about my interview, instead it's a tale of woe.
We arrived at the USCIS office, all geared up for my citizenship interview scheduled 1.05pm, 11 April. We waited in a room, where the temperature was fit only for chilling meat, for half an hour before, and half an hour after the scheduled time, only to be told that two interviewing officers, of the three available, had had to go home sick that morning and the remaining officer's list was full, she could take no more interviews.
They had telephoned our home earlier with no response. We'd have left early even had we not decided to stay over the previous night, so a morning call after 9am would have made no difference. The journey is around 80 miles, and the weather had been very iffy for a couple of days with floods, tornado watches and violent storms. We did not want to risk missing this appointment for which I'd been waiting since last July.
We saw another applicant, the only other one present, sent away earlier, and because we were not approached at that time, around ten minutes before my appointment, felt that I must be listed with the remaining interviewing officer. It was not until half an hour after my scheduled time that we were given the bad news .
We watched two people who arrived long after we did, accompanied by an attorney, ushered in for their interview. Worse, when I asked the bearer of bad tidings, who was very apologetic, when I could expect re-scheduling he said the rest of April and all of May has been scheduled already it will be June or July for me. I had to bite my tongue - very hard.
I'd already been put to the inconvenience of a second visit and overnight stay for a re-take of fingerprints - probably due to the operative's incompetence the first time around - then there was the 17 week wait I had to even get a receipt for my $400 cheque and acknowledgement of my application. I applied on 26 July 2007.
I'm considering making a complaint, because although staff sickness can't be foreseen, I think it's not fair that I have to be put at the back of the queue for another appointment. I'm really feeling deflated!
hi,
back around 1 or 2 years ago (i forgot) when my friend has his interview scheduled for january, our president suddenly announced the day to be Ronald Reagan memorial day, all gov't offices hence closed, and "luckily" my friend's interview fell on that day. he was rescheduled to a day 2 months later.
Good luck to you! I share your grievances.
Thanks Satura.
If I have to wait another 2 months for interview I shall be tearing my hair out! i suppose it's all part of life's rough pattern, but I shall complain like mad !
If I have to wait another 2 months for interview I shall be tearing my hair out! i suppose it's all part of life's rough pattern, but I shall complain like mad !
QUOTE(churipu @ Apr 15 2008, 09:18 AM)
Congrats Sherlock! I wanted to ask...someone posted that you can apply for your passport at the Oath ceremony and that it is supposedly faster?? Is that what you guys did in Baltimore? Also...they give the naturalization certificates at the Oath, don't they?
The reason why I ask is because as soon as I become a citizen I need all my stuff in order (esp passport of course) ASAP because we are due to move to Europe with my hubby's job...they are pretty much waiting on me to complete everything.
The reason why I ask is because as soon as I become a citizen I need all my stuff in order (esp passport of course) ASAP because we are due to move to Europe with my hubby's job...they are pretty much waiting on me to complete everything.
Churipu - No one said anything about that either at the interview or the ceremony. In the packet we got at the ceremony, it listed all the local places you can get passports.
I can only recommend that you check into the options for an expedited passport on the following page:
http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/first/first_831.html
May want to check out the Passport Agency option.
Yes, they give you the certificates at the oath ceremony, so you'll have everything you need at that point.
Hi everyone!!! I am back!!! ***warning this is long***
The interview went fine...however there is a little BIT of a problem
I really SHOULD NOT have opened my big mouth!!
So..here how it went.
We arrived at the St. Paul (Bloomington INS) around 1:30pm. My appointment was at 2pm. I had with me all of my taxes docs from the time I became a permanent resident, my marriage cert, passports, and transcript from my college.
I was called into the office around 2:15pm. The office was really nice, her name is office Bass. Right away, she told me that she will go over the N400 that I sent in just to make sure they have everything upto date and that she will ask me 6 questions and if I get them all right.. she will stop there.
I was asked to raise my right hand to swore in to tell the truth Then she began going through everything on my N400. She asked me about the current address, what I currently do, other names used, marriage.. etc. Then a couple more questions about the trip I just took to Mexico and about speeding tickets 
She told me that I was supposed to list the speedy, parking, etc tickets on there. I didn't know.. so we updated that. Then she asked me to write
"Today is a very sunny day" on the bottom of my N400. Here are the questions I was asked:
1. Who is the current President?
2. Who become the president if both vice president and president die?
3. How many stars are on the flag?
4. Who is the main writer of decoration of dependence?
5. What is national anthem?
6. Who said "Give me liberty or give me death"?
I got them all right.. so we stopped. Then she asked me to read some easy sentence (sorry, I don't recall the sentence)
So she said great everything looks good.. blah blah blah.. Then she handed me the letter of recommendation for approval and said that I will get notice in the mail about Oath. And proceeded to say that it probably takes 2 months but can go up to 6 months. I was so happy and excited. Everything sounds fine right?? Yeah I thought so too.. Until she asked me:
Office Bass: Great.. looks good. Do you have anything to ask me?
Me: Hmm nope.. but so everything is ok? You don't need anything from me about the trip to Viet Nam I took back in 01-02 for 10 moths?
Officer Bass: "Huh? Trip to Viet Nam??" with confusing face "Did you list it on your app?"
Me: "Yep.."
Officer Bass: More confusing face.... "let me see" then she started flipping through my N400 again. "Oh ohhhh"
I thought to myself OMG!!! WTH?? What now??
Officer Bass: I gotta call someone about this
Then she got someone on the phone.. All I heard was.. "yep.. hmm...umm.. Well... hmm" Then she asked me, "Do you have anything to prove that you still were intended to come back or kept your residency?" I was like "NO" I tried so hard to hold it together but I couldn't help but started to cry!!!
She missed reading my N400 and the box that I entered 290 days out of the country!!! 
She told me that she has to take back the letter she gave me and said that she will have to look at this again this weekend because no one at the office know what's going to happen to my case!!! I have been living here for over 10 years but I went to VN back in 01 for about 10 months.. I waited till I got my 5 years residency back last year and I sent in my N400. Now they don't know that they will approve it since they are not sure if they count the TOTAL DAYS outside the US starting from when I left Dec 25 01 all the way to Oct 22 02 ??
or day to day basis (like I came back in Oct 02 so five years from then to Oct 07, but N400 was received on July 29 07..so how many days I was out.. ) I didn't know what to do or say, but handed her back the letter and gave her my taxes info that I filed when I came back and my college transcript I had that shows I was still taking online classes when I was gone. I don't have anything else since I was living with my parents before I took the trip and we rented an apartment. I know I probably should have kept my mouth shut and should have not question or ask anything.. but I was trying to make sure everything was going to be ok and that no RED flags will show up from that point and trying to be honest.. And if I didn't bring this up.. Officer Bass would have been in a BIG trouble! Well.. thats what she told me. She kept on thanking me for being honest and remind her about this... and that my honesty will only get N400 get through quicker.. of course after EVERYTHING is looked at!!! She could tell that I was really bummed out. She said I will get the letter in the mail to let me know what is going to happen to my case.
So.. thats my story.
1. I passed the test, but I don't know if I will have to wait until October this year or not?
2. I might have to pay the new fee?
3. I might have to reapply and go through this process over again?
Well.. I feel like hanging myself now..
What would have happened if I didn't open my big mouth? Will God be on my side??
Thanks for reading this!! and Congrats to those who went through fine with everything!!
The interview went fine...however there is a little BIT of a problem
I really SHOULD NOT have opened my big mouth!!
So..here how it went.
We arrived at the St. Paul (Bloomington INS) around 1:30pm. My appointment was at 2pm. I had with me all of my taxes docs from the time I became a permanent resident, my marriage cert, passports, and transcript from my college.
I was called into the office around 2:15pm. The office was really nice, her name is office Bass. Right away, she told me that she will go over the N400 that I sent in just to make sure they have everything upto date and that she will ask me 6 questions and if I get them all right.. she will stop there.
I was asked to raise my right hand to swore in to tell the truth
Then she began going through everything on my N400. She asked me about the current address, what I currently do, other names used, marriage.. etc. Then a couple more questions about the trip I just took to Mexico and about speeding tickets She told me that I was supposed to list the speedy, parking, etc tickets on there. I didn't know.. so we updated that. Then she asked me to write "Today is a very sunny day" on the bottom of my N400. Here are the questions I was asked:
1. Who is the current President?
2. Who become the president if both vice president and president die?
3. How many stars are on the flag?
4. Who is the main writer of decoration of dependence?
5. What is national anthem?
6. Who said "Give me liberty or give me death"?
I got them all right.. so we stopped. Then she asked me to read some easy sentence (sorry, I don't recall the sentence)
So she said great everything looks good.. blah blah blah.. Then she handed me the letter of recommendation for approval and said that I will get notice in the mail about Oath. And proceeded to say that it probably takes 2 months but can go up to 6 months. I was so happy and excited. Everything sounds fine right?? Yeah I thought so too.. Until she asked me:
Office Bass: Great.. looks good. Do you have anything to ask me?
Me: Hmm nope.. but so everything is ok? You don't need anything from me about the trip to Viet Nam I took back in 01-02 for 10 moths?
Officer Bass: "Huh? Trip to Viet Nam??" with confusing face "Did you list it on your app?"
Me: "Yep.."
Officer Bass: More confusing face.... "let me see" then she started flipping through my N400 again. "Oh ohhhh"
I thought to myself OMG!!! WTH?? What now??
Officer Bass: I gotta call someone about this
Then she got someone on the phone.. All I heard was.. "yep.. hmm...umm.. Well... hmm" Then she asked me, "Do you have anything to prove that you still were intended to come back or kept your residency?" I was like "NO" I tried so hard to hold it together but I couldn't help but started to cry!!!
She missed reading my N400 and the box that I entered 290 days out of the country!!! She told me that she has to take back the letter she gave me and said that she will have to look at this again this weekend because no one at the office know what's going to happen to my case!!! I have been living here for over 10 years but I went to VN back in 01 for about 10 months.. I waited till I got my 5 years residency back last year and I sent in my N400. Now they don't know that they will approve it since they are not sure if they count the TOTAL DAYS outside the US starting from when I left Dec 25 01 all the way to Oct 22 02 ??
or day to day basis (like I came back in Oct 02 so five years from then to Oct 07, but N400 was received on July 29 07..so how many days I was out.. ) I didn't know what to do or say, but handed her back the letter and gave her my taxes info that I filed when I came back and my college transcript I had that shows I was still taking online classes when I was gone. I don't have anything else since I was living with my parents before I took the trip and we rented an apartment. I know I probably should have kept my mouth shut and should have not question or ask anything.. but I was trying to make sure everything was going to be ok and that no RED flags will show up from that point and trying to be honest.. And if I didn't bring this up.. Officer Bass would have been in a BIG trouble! Well.. thats what she told me. She kept on thanking me for being honest and remind her about this... and that my honesty will only get N400 get through quicker.. of course after EVERYTHING is looked at!!! She could tell that I was really bummed out. She said I will get the letter in the mail to let me know what is going to happen to my case.
So.. thats my story.
1. I passed the test, but I don't know if I will have to wait until October this year or not?
2. I might have to pay the new fee?
3. I might have to reapply and go through this process over again?
Well.. I feel like hanging myself now..
What would have happened if I didn't open my big mouth? Will God be on my side?? Thanks for reading this!! and Congrats to those who went through fine with everything!!
QUOTE(LovelyTena @ Apr 16 2008, 12:47 PM)
Hi everyone!!! I am back!!! ***warning this is long***
The interview went fine...however there is a little BIT of a problem
I really SHOULD NOT have opened my big mouth!!
So..here how it went.
We arrived at the St. Paul (Bloomington INS) around 1:30pm. My appointment was at 2pm. I had with me all of my taxes docs from the time I became a permanent resident, my marriage cert, passports, and transcript from my college.
I was called into the office around 2:15pm. The office was really nice, her name is office Bass. Right away, she told me that she will go over the N400 that I sent in just to make sure they have everything upto date and that she will ask me 6 questions and if I get them all right.. she will stop there.
I was asked to raise my right hand to swore in to tell the truth Then she began going through everything on my N400. She asked me about the current address, what I currently do, other names used, marriage.. etc. Then a couple more questions about the trip I just took to Mexico and about speeding tickets She told me that I was supposed to list the speedy, parking, etc tickets on there. I didn't know.. so we updated that. Then she asked me to write
"Today is a very sunny day" on the bottom of my N400. Here are the questions I was asked:
1. Who is the current President?
2. Who become the president if both vice president and president die?
3. How many stars are on the flag?
4. Who is the main writer of decoration of dependence?
5. What is national anthem?
6. Who said "Give me liberty or give me death"?
I got them all right.. so we stopped. Then she asked me to read some easy sentence (sorry, I don't recall the sentence)
So she said great everything looks good.. blah blah blah.. Then she handed me the letter of recommendation for approval and said that I will get notice in the mail about Oath. And proceeded to say that it probably takes 2 months but can go up to 6 months. I was so happy and excited. Everything sounds fine right?? Yeah I thought so too.. Until she asked me:
Office Bass: Great.. looks good. Do you have anything to ask me?
Me: Hmm nope.. but so everything is ok? You don't need anything from me about the trip to Viet Nam I took back in 01-02 for 10 moths?
Officer Bass: "Huh? Trip to Viet Nam??" with confusing face "Did you list it on your app?"
Me: "Yep.."
Officer Bass: More confusing face.... "let me see" then she started flipping through my N400 again. "Oh ohhhh"
I thought to myself OMG!!! WTH?? What now??
Officer Bass: I gotta call someone about this
Then she got someone on the phone.. All I heard was.. "yep.. hmm...umm.. Well... hmm" Then she asked me, "Do you have anything to prove that you still were intended to come back or kept your residency?" I was like "NO" I tried so hard to hold it together but I couldn't help but started to cry!!! She missed reading my N400 and the box that I entered 290 days out of the country!!!
She told me that she has to take back the letter she gave me and said that she will have to look at this again this weekend because no one at the office know what's going to happen to my case!!! I have been living here for over 10 years but I went to VN back in 01 for about 10 months.. I waited till I got my 5 years residency back last year and I sent in my N400. Now they don't know that they will approve it since they are not sure if they count the TOTAL DAYS outside the US starting from when I left Dec 25 01 all the way to Oct 22 02 ??
or day to day basis (like I came back in Oct 02 so five years from then to Oct 07, but N400 was received on July 29 07..so how many days I was out.. ) I didn't know what to do or say, but handed her back the letter and gave her my taxes info that I filed when I came back and my college transcript I had that shows I was still taking online classes when I was gone. I don't have anything else since I was living with my parents before I took the trip and we rented an apartment. I know I probably should have kept my mouth shut and should have not question or ask anything.. but I was trying to make sure everything was going to be ok and that no RED flags will show up from that point and trying to be honest.. And if I didn't bring this up.. Officer Bass would have been in a BIG trouble! Well.. thats what she told me. She kept on thanking me for being honest and remind her about this... and that my honesty will only get N400 get through quicker.. of course after EVERYTHING is looked at!!! She could tell that I was really bummed out. She said I will get the letter in the mail to let me know what is going to happen to my case.
So.. thats my story.
1. I passed the test, but I don't know if I will have to wait until October this year or not?
2. I might have to pay the new fee?
3. I might have to reapply and go through this process over again?
Well.. I feel like hanging myself now.. What would have happened if I didn't open my big mouth? Will God be on my side??
Thanks for reading this!! and Congrats to those who went through fine with everything!!
The interview went fine...however there is a little BIT of a problem
I really SHOULD NOT have opened my big mouth!!
So..here how it went.
We arrived at the St. Paul (Bloomington INS) around 1:30pm. My appointment was at 2pm. I had with me all of my taxes docs from the time I became a permanent resident, my marriage cert, passports, and transcript from my college.
I was called into the office around 2:15pm. The office was really nice, her name is office Bass. Right away, she told me that she will go over the N400 that I sent in just to make sure they have everything upto date and that she will ask me 6 questions and if I get them all right.. she will stop there.
I was asked to raise my right hand to swore in to tell the truth
Then she began going through everything on my N400. She asked me about the current address, what I currently do, other names used, marriage.. etc. Then a couple more questions about the trip I just took to Mexico and about speeding tickets She told me that I was supposed to list the speedy, parking, etc tickets on there. I didn't know.. so we updated that. Then she asked me to write "Today is a very sunny day" on the bottom of my N400. Here are the questions I was asked:
1. Who is the current President?
2. Who become the president if both vice president and president die?
3. How many stars are on the flag?
4. Who is the main writer of decoration of dependence?
5. What is national anthem?
6. Who said "Give me liberty or give me death"?
I got them all right.. so we stopped. Then she asked me to read some easy sentence (sorry, I don't recall the sentence)
So she said great everything looks good.. blah blah blah.. Then she handed me the letter of recommendation for approval and said that I will get notice in the mail about Oath. And proceeded to say that it probably takes 2 months but can go up to 6 months. I was so happy and excited. Everything sounds fine right?? Yeah I thought so too.. Until she asked me:
Office Bass: Great.. looks good. Do you have anything to ask me?
Me: Hmm nope.. but so everything is ok? You don't need anything from me about the trip to Viet Nam I took back in 01-02 for 10 moths?
Officer Bass: "Huh? Trip to Viet Nam??" with confusing face "Did you list it on your app?"
Me: "Yep.."
Officer Bass: More confusing face.... "let me see" then she started flipping through my N400 again. "Oh ohhhh"
I thought to myself OMG!!! WTH?? What now??
Officer Bass: I gotta call someone about this
Then she got someone on the phone.. All I heard was.. "yep.. hmm...umm.. Well... hmm" Then she asked me, "Do you have anything to prove that you still were intended to come back or kept your residency?" I was like "NO" I tried so hard to hold it together but I couldn't help but started to cry!!!
She missed reading my N400 and the box that I entered 290 days out of the country!!! She told me that she has to take back the letter she gave me and said that she will have to look at this again this weekend because no one at the office know what's going to happen to my case!!! I have been living here for over 10 years but I went to VN back in 01 for about 10 months.. I waited till I got my 5 years residency back last year and I sent in my N400. Now they don't know that they will approve it since they are not sure if they count the TOTAL DAYS outside the US starting from when I left Dec 25 01 all the way to Oct 22 02 ??
or day to day basis (like I came back in Oct 02 so five years from then to Oct 07, but N400 was received on July 29 07..so how many days I was out.. ) I didn't know what to do or say, but handed her back the letter and gave her my taxes info that I filed when I came back and my college transcript I had that shows I was still taking online classes when I was gone. I don't have anything else since I was living with my parents before I took the trip and we rented an apartment. I know I probably should have kept my mouth shut and should have not question or ask anything.. but I was trying to make sure everything was going to be ok and that no RED flags will show up from that point and trying to be honest.. And if I didn't bring this up.. Officer Bass would have been in a BIG trouble! Well.. thats what she told me. She kept on thanking me for being honest and remind her about this... and that my honesty will only get N400 get through quicker.. of course after EVERYTHING is looked at!!! She could tell that I was really bummed out. She said I will get the letter in the mail to let me know what is going to happen to my case.
So.. thats my story.
1. I passed the test, but I don't know if I will have to wait until October this year or not?
2. I might have to pay the new fee?
3. I might have to reapply and go through this process over again?
Well.. I feel like hanging myself now..
What would have happened if I didn't open my big mouth? Will God be on my side?? Thanks for reading this!! and Congrats to those who went through fine with everything!!
Tena OMG!!! I'm so sorry. I don't know what to tell you about keeping your mouth shut or not - that is up to you. I will be praying that they can reapprove everything and that you'll have no delays.
Good Luck! Keep up your prayers.
Gee Tena I don't know what to say. I feel so sorry about what happened. Probably you did the right thing. Who knows what would have happened if someone up the line had discovered your trip. They may have decided that you purposely filed early and God knows what draconian penalty they might have imposed. We went to Thailand in the winter of '05 - '06 and did not know about the six month rule. I came back early but my wife stayed because her mom was ill. I learned of the rule just a few days before she would have stayed too long, phoned her and told her to get on the first available flight. She was out a total of about 176 days, just under the wire. We are still nervous about it though because we have taken other trips there for 2 or 3 months and it may look as though she does not care about getting citizenship. We're with you in spirit. Let us know when you hear something.
Tena I kinda was worried there had been some problems because you didn't post anything in the "wish me luck" thread yesterday:unsure: I am so sorry this happened, but I think telling the truth is always the best thing to do. Your trip was a long time ago so I would think that after further evaluation they will approve your case, although this is causing delays..which sucks considering you filed in JULY last year! Please keep us posted, I am sure things will work out for you. 
Staashi,
Don't be so hard on yourself, I have read that normally another officer goes trough the files after the interview, it is possible that they have find it any way. I wish that this does not afect your process
Don't be so hard on yourself, I have read that normally another officer goes trough the files after the interview, it is possible that they have find it any way. I wish that this does not afect your process
QUOTE(Lady_K @ Apr 16 2008, 06:11 PM)
Staashi,
Don't be so hard on yourself, I have read that normally another officer goes trough the files after the interview, it is possible that they have find it any way. I wish that this does not afect your process
Don't be so hard on yourself, I have read that normally another officer goes trough the files after the interview, it is possible that they have find it any way. I wish that this does not afect your process
Lady K - it wasn't us, it is Tena who went through that process.
Your sympathies are in the right place though. 
QUOTE(Staashi @ Apr 16 2008, 06:32 PM)
Lady K - it wasn't us, it is Tena who went through that process. Your sympathies are in the right place though.
Your sympathies are in the right place though. oops, sorry thanks.
QUOTE
Tena OMG!!! I'm so sorry. I don't know what to tell you about keeping your mouth shut or not - that is up to you. I will be praying that they can reapprove everything and that you'll have no delays.
Good Luck! Keep up your prayers.
Good Luck! Keep up your prayers.
Staashi ~ Thank you so much for your reply and praying for me
. I am trying my best to deal with it. It's not that I need to be a naturize right now.. It's not really going to change anything. I just am sick of the leghty process its taking and I want to vote this Nov. Thanks for the reply.. I really appreciated.
Tena
QUOTE(nscvet @ Apr 16 2008, 02:48 PM)
Gee Tena I don't know what to say. I feel so sorry about what happened. Probably you did the right thing. Who knows what would have happened if someone up the line had discovered your trip. They may have decided that you purposely filed early and God knows what draconian penalty they might have imposed. We went to Thailand in the winter of '05 - '06 and did not know about the six month rule. I came back early but my wife stayed because her mom was ill. I learned of the rule just a few days before she would have stayed too long, phoned her and told her to get on the first available flight. She was out a total of about 176 days, just under the wire. We are still nervous about it though because we have taken other trips there for 2 or 3 months and it may look as though she does not care about getting citizenship. We're with you in spirit. Let us know when you hear something.
Bob & Mon ~ Thank you for your sympathy
I'm glad that Mon doesn't have to go through what I am going through. I am actually felt better now that I actually brought that up to Officer Bass since I am that someone else will have to look at my N400 later on to actually approve it anyway. So.. I am glad that its being handled now than getting the denied later. The way the law and information is written is very confusing and them (the officers that day at St. Paul) don't even know the answer. I am just a little sick of waiting But oh well.. what can a girl do? I was young and stupid to take that trip and not listening to my parents. Anyway, I really appreciate your reply and I will update as soon as I hear something Tena
QUOTE(churipu @ Apr 16 2008, 04:32 PM)
Tena I kinda was worried there had been some problems because you didn't post anything in the "wish me luck" thread yesterday:unsure: I am so sorry this happened, but I think telling the truth is always the best thing to do. Your trip was a long time ago so I would think that after further evaluation they will approve your case, although this is causing delays..which sucks considering you filed in JULY last year! Please keep us posted, I am sure things will work out for you.
Churipu~~ thanks for the reply. This citizenship journey is getting wayyyy too long. I want to vote this Nov and I was planning to go to France this coming August..now everything will probably be postponed. I still have faith in the Officer and I am praying that God will be on my side for being honest. I just have to wait and see what happens. It is kinda stupid that I have been here for over 10 years and always have been a good residence. I paid all my taxes and blah blah.. you know!! And I am married to a native born, but since it is not 3 years yet.. I can't applied based on marriage. Dumb huh? But thanks
I will let you know as soon as I find out. I wish you luck and I am sure I will be congratulating you when you complete your interview Tena
QUOTE(Lady_K @ Apr 16 2008, 05:11 PM)
Staashi,
Don't be so hard on yourself, I have read that normally another officer goes trough the files after the interview, it is possible that they have find it any way. I wish that this does not afect your process
Don't be so hard on yourself, I have read that normally another officer goes trough the files after the interview, it is possible that they have find it any way. I wish that this does not afect your process
Lady_K ~ thank you for your reply. I will have to wait and find out. Please keep your figures crossed for me
Tena
QUOTE
Tena OMG!!! I'm so sorry. I don't know what to tell you about keeping your mouth shut or not - that is up to you. I will be praying that they can reapprove everything and that you'll have no delays.
Good Luck! Keep up your prayers.
Good Luck! Keep up your prayers.
Staashi ~ Thank you so much for your reply and praying for me
. I am trying my best to deal with it. It's not that I need to be a naturalized right now.. It's not really going to change anything. I just am sick of the leghty process its taking and I want to vote this Nov. Thanks for the reply.. I really appreciated.
Tena
Hang in there...everything will work out, this too shall pass
Tena - Shucks! I've just read your story - that is worrying for you. But surely other people have vetted your file before it got to this stage. I think whoever passed it through as being eligible for interview must have known all was okay, and maybe the interviewing officer you had was less experienced. She must be if she didn't pick it up until you mentioned it.
I feel sure it will all be okay for you. Stay confident!
Hugs.
I feel sure it will all be okay for you. Stay confident!
Hugs.
Annatenna and LovelyTena! I am sorry about what happened, just hang on and don't let USCIS affect rest of your life! Try to stay positive and happy and love your families and life - despite whatever happens! Everything is gonna be alright!
LovelyTena, I was out of country for 8+11 months -that's exactly half of required 3 years, I still qualify cuz i paid taxes, had property and bank accounts and family ties in US, i am thinking to get a lawyer to go to interview with me if I find one that i can afford.
USCIS is very illogical place, and if you are truly eligible and legal, then you will prove yourself eventually right and get what you deserve, but in my case i want to bring my mother here, she has nobody in world except me, so I would be very disappointed and hurt if i had to reappeal for another half year or wait another 3 years to re-appply.
LovelyTena, I was out of country for 8+11 months -that's exactly half of required 3 years, I still qualify cuz i paid taxes, had property and bank accounts and family ties in US, i am thinking to get a lawyer to go to interview with me if I find one that i can afford.
USCIS is very illogical place, and if you are truly eligible and legal, then you will prove yourself eventually right and get what you deserve, but in my case i want to bring my mother here, she has nobody in world except me, so I would be very disappointed and hurt if i had to reappeal for another half year or wait another 3 years to re-appply.
Thank you Feliz! And good wishes for your smooth progress through the USCIS minefield!
I'll be eagerly waiting to read happy endings to all of our stories here.
We shall overcome! :-)
I'll be eagerly waiting to read happy endings to all of our stories here.
We shall overcome! :-)
QUOTE(Feliz @ Apr 17 2008, 06:16 PM)
LovelyTena, I was out of country for 8+11 months -that's exactly half of required 3 years, I still qualify cuz i paid taxes, had property and bank accounts and family ties in US, i am thinking to get a lawyer to go to interview with me if I find one that i can afford.
Feliz, were you out of the country for 8 months and then 11 months? Anything beyond 6 mos at a time is considered abandonment of permanent residency and you will have to wait to recomplete a straight 3 years again with trips of less than 6 months.
I got my new interview date today - 19 June, 5.30pm --10 weeks after original date!
Not sure if my letter to them crossed - I think it did. i doubt I'll get a reply though.
I'm not happy, but guess I'll have to just accept more delay and move on, otherwise I'll drive myself insane.
N400 sent to TSC 26 July 07
NOA received 26 November (cheque cashed 19 Nov.)
Finger print appointment (1) 17 December 07 Oklahoma City
Finger print re-take, FBI couldn't read previous version - 22 January 08
Interview letter received 25 February 08
Interview appointment 11 April 08, Oklahoma City - SENT AWAY - Staff illnesses.
Not sure if my letter to them crossed - I think it did. i doubt I'll get a reply though.
I'm not happy, but guess I'll have to just accept more delay and move on, otherwise I'll drive myself insane.
N400 sent to TSC 26 July 07
NOA received 26 November (cheque cashed 19 Nov.)
Finger print appointment (1) 17 December 07 Oklahoma City
Finger print re-take, FBI couldn't read previous version - 22 January 08
Interview letter received 25 February 08
Interview appointment 11 April 08, Oklahoma City - SENT AWAY - Staff illnesses.
QUOTE(annatenna @ Apr 19 2008, 08:49 PM)
I got my new interview date today - 19 June, 5.30pm --10 weeks after original date!
Not sure if my letter to them crossed - I think it did. i doubt I'll get a reply though.
I'm not happy, but guess I'll have to just accept more delay and move on, otherwise I'll drive myself insane.
N400 sent to TSC 26 July 07
NOA received 26 November (cheque cashed 19 Nov.)
Finger print appointment (1) 17 December 07 Oklahoma City
Finger print re-take, FBI couldn't read previous version - 22 January 08
Interview letter received 25 February 08
Interview appointment 11 April 08, Oklahoma City - SENT AWAY - Staff illnesses.
Not sure if my letter to them crossed - I think it did. i doubt I'll get a reply though.
I'm not happy, but guess I'll have to just accept more delay and move on, otherwise I'll drive myself insane.
N400 sent to TSC 26 July 07
NOA received 26 November (cheque cashed 19 Nov.)
Finger print appointment (1) 17 December 07 Oklahoma City
Finger print re-take, FBI couldn't read previous version - 22 January 08
Interview letter received 25 February 08
Interview appointment 11 April 08, Oklahoma City - SENT AWAY - Staff illnesses.
Congrats!
Time will fly and this will be over once and for all!
I hope so, Churipu - thank you!
QUOTE(annatenna @ Apr 19 2008, 07:49 PM)
I got my new interview date today - 19 June, 5.30pm --10 weeks after original date!
Not sure if my letter to them crossed - I think it did. i doubt I'll get a reply though.
I'm not happy, but guess I'll have to just accept more delay and move on, otherwise I'll drive myself insane.
N400 sent to TSC 26 July 07
NOA received 26 November (cheque cashed 19 Nov.)
Finger print appointment (1) 17 December 07 Oklahoma City
Finger print re-take, FBI couldn't read previous version - 22 January 08
Interview letter received 25 February 08
Interview appointment 11 April 08, Oklahoma City - SENT AWAY - Staff illnesses.
Not sure if my letter to them crossed - I think it did. i doubt I'll get a reply though.
I'm not happy, but guess I'll have to just accept more delay and move on, otherwise I'll drive myself insane.
N400 sent to TSC 26 July 07
NOA received 26 November (cheque cashed 19 Nov.)
Finger print appointment (1) 17 December 07 Oklahoma City
Finger print re-take, FBI couldn't read previous version - 22 January 08
Interview letter received 25 February 08
Interview appointment 11 April 08, Oklahoma City - SENT AWAY - Staff illnesses.
Hi annatenna,
I am sorry about what happened to you! I would have been very upset if someone sent me away, but you know.. they are GOV agency so I guess they can do whatever. I still don't think its right for them to put you out another 10 weeks and let those who filed after us July filers interview and get oath taking first. Why do they bother giving us priority date if they are going to place us behinds other people who filed later?
My St. Paul office WASN'T busy at all when I was there. In fact there were only 3 other people interviewing that afternoon. I understand how it feels to have to wait... This N400 process is taking wayyyy too long for all of us. Just hang in there. I don't even know whats going to happen to my case. Good luck for the interview. I hope they will speed up the oath date for you after all the trouble they put you through.
Tena
Just closing the loop.
Wifey applied for US Passport at the local courthouse on 17 April. She was very frustrated because, although the check was cashed on 29 April, she still did not show up on the passport status page.
On Saturday we got a little package with her nice blue US passport.
I would also note that she had been worried that the passport folks would damage her naturalization certificate. They did not, although the mailman did bend the package to fit it in the mailbox. Nothing a few days in an encyclopedia won't fix.
Wifey applied for US Passport at the local courthouse on 17 April. She was very frustrated because, although the check was cashed on 29 April, she still did not show up on the passport status page.
On Saturday we got a little package with her nice blue US passport.
I would also note that she had been worried that the passport folks would damage her naturalization certificate. They did not, although the mailman did bend the package to fit it in the mailbox. Nothing a few days in an encyclopedia won't fix.
QUOTE(Sherlock @ May 5 2008, 11:37 AM)
Just closing the loop.
Wifey applied for US Passport at the local courthouse on 17 April. She was very frustrated because, although the check was cashed on 29 April, she still did not show up on the passport status page.
On Saturday we got a little package with her nice blue US passport.
I would also note that she had been worried that the passport folks would damage her naturalization certificate. They did not, although the mailman did bend the package to fit it in the mailbox. Nothing a few days in an encyclopedia won't fix.
Wifey applied for US Passport at the local courthouse on 17 April. She was very frustrated because, although the check was cashed on 29 April, she still did not show up on the passport status page.
On Saturday we got a little package with her nice blue US passport.
I would also note that she had been worried that the passport folks would damage her naturalization certificate. They did not, although the mailman did bend the package to fit it in the mailbox. Nothing a few days in an encyclopedia won't fix.
Congratulations! That is wonderful news...nice way to end this whole journey.
QUOTE(Sherlock @ May 5 2008, 11:37 AM)
Just closing the loop.
Wifey applied for US Passport at the local courthouse on 17 April. She was very frustrated because, although the check was cashed on 29 April, she still did not show up on the passport status page.
On Saturday we got a little package with her nice blue US passport.
I would also note that she had been worried that the passport folks would damage her naturalization certificate. They did not, although the mailman did bend the package to fit it in the mailbox. Nothing a few days in an encyclopedia won't fix.
Wifey applied for US Passport at the local courthouse on 17 April. She was very frustrated because, although the check was cashed on 29 April, she still did not show up on the passport status page.
On Saturday we got a little package with her nice blue US passport.
I would also note that she had been worried that the passport folks would damage her naturalization certificate. They did not, although the mailman did bend the package to fit it in the mailbox. Nothing a few days in an encyclopedia won't fix.
Congratulations
Sounds like you are done
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