How till the visa is in hand?

[Alyssa Marie 0]

My fiance has scheduled an interview in the London U.S. Embassy, and he'd like to know when he'd have his visa in hand so he can start planning out plane tickets (in hopes that he's approved). I know some embassy's you get it the same day, and others you have to wait a week or so to get it in the mail.

Did anyone buy their plane ticket before the interview? Or did you wait after? The prices are probably unbelievable.

[cdneh 3,112]

I wouldn't advise buying it before the Visa is in hand.

[Penny Lane 8,159]

Never make plans before the Visa is in hand.

[JoannaV 174]

Personally, I bought my ticket after I had been approved at the interview but before I actually received the visa. Ignoring the possibility of AP, I was pretty sure I would receive my visa before my flight. (Based on how quickly other people received their visas, and what the IO had told me at the interview.)

If he does decide to book tickets in advance I would advise he gives it two weeks, and be aware that there is no guarantee he will have his visa. You just have to weigh up all the factors and make a decision. If he waits to receive his visa he can book a flight for the next day and be there sooner, potentially, you know?

As for cost, it all depends. At this time of year, even a last minute flight won't be too expensive. There might not be much money to be saved by booking sooner.