Embassy Interview, To Shave my beard or not to Shave my beard?

[Ausmerican 0]

Hey Guys and Girls,

I have been growing a beard for quite some time, its neat and professional, I don't look like I am hobo. Its not for religious reasons, it actually started as a lament for my frustrations with having to be apart for my wife but now its kind of a hobby.

So anyways I am also of middle eastern appearance although I was born and raised in Australia, I am from a Lebanese background. I am concerned that I may be profiled or treated more harshly because of my appearance and cultural heritage and having a beard seems to make it much worse. What do you recomend people? I mean its probably not worth all the potential risk of having it but Its a principal issue for me.

Thanks for any feedback you can offer.

[Tracey&Greg 33]

I personally don't see it being an issue. My them fiancé now hubby had a beard at his interview in London and had no problems. As long as you stay true and honest you shouldn't have any issues ~ (that's the best smiley I could come up with that looked like a beard lol)

[mattawara 19]

It's a beard mate, not a swastika on your forehead.

Every 2nd Aussie has a beard, I was one of them when I had my interview... If shaving will help you relax then go ahead, otherwise don't bother.

[Ausmerican 0]

It's a beard mate, not a swastika on your forehead.

Every 2nd Aussie has a beard, I was one of them when I had my interview... If shaving will help you relax then go ahead, otherwise don't bother.

Thanks for the feed back mate. I will really miss the aussie slang and metaphors when i get to the US.

[Ryan H 3,795]

***Moved from IR-1/CR-1 Process & Procedures to US Embassy & Consulate Discussion; topic pertains to this phase of the process and is applicable to multiple visa types.***

**Moderator hat off**

It won't make any difference whatsoever on the outcome of the interview. Do what makes you feel most comfortable.