Averages

[bobb 0]

It is good to remember an average is only that. Some will wait longer, some will wait shorter.

Today I talked with NVC, or at least the call center for NVC. The time between NOA2 and interview date will vary depending upon when your approved application goes in the 'box' to Moscow. Yes, they send the application electronically, but they do not start processing until they receive the 'hard' copy. At least this is what I was told.

My application was received at NVC on 4/09, approved and sent on 4/13 (sent electronically). Moscow, as of today, had not received the application. I know because I sent them an email because I had a question and some information I wanted to inform them of. It appears it is not recognized as received until the 'hard' copy arrives. The full application is not sent electronically. They do not begin processing until then. This is where averages can be very misleading. If NVC finishes processing the application and it is one of the first in the 'box' you will wait up to several weeks until it arrives in Moscow. If you are very lucky the 'box' becomes full in a matter of days. Lucky you.

At least this is what I perceive after the explanation from NVC call number. I also seem to remember reading this indeed the process somewhere else, some time ago.

It is not going to really affect us as I won't be returning until mid-August.

[slim 1,514]

From NOA2 to the interview being scheduled is only a couple weeks. Sure, they're not going to do anything until they get the hardcopy, but it's not going to take forever. You should know in another week or two.

[Neonred 3,461]

Not sure what it is now, but it used to be 2-3 months.

[slim 1,514]

That's 2-3 months, total. From the time you get that e-mail confirmation of NOAII until you can check the Moscow website and see your case number next to a date. Of course, the interview will then tack on several more weeks, but at least you'll get an idea of your window.

You'll get the NVC case number update and can also check if it's arrived in Moscow, but you won't get the interview date for maybe a month or so until after it's sent from NVC. The interview date should be posted in less than 90 days from NVC. I believe mine was right around a month and the interview was another month or two after that. I want to say from NOAII to interview it was only about 120 days total. I really don't even remember anymore! (Going to check my timeline.....)