Notarized Statement for Support of Ongoing Relationship

[noraliz73 243]

Because of the fact that my fiancé lives in a Middle Eastern country, I have asked my parents whether they would be willing to swear in front of an notary the facts of what they know about our relationship and whether or not it is bona-fide.  My parents are also aware of our wedding plans and have been a big emotional support for me through all of this waiting to hear something from USCIS.  My father was excited at the idea of writing a letter because he is an English major just like I am.  For those of you who have used sworn statements from family members in support of your relationship for the interview portion of the process, what was helpful?  What should be left out?  To whom should it be addressed?  I was thinking, "Dear Consulate Officer."  "To Whom it May Concern," is so outdated and impersonal.  "Dear Sir or Madam" is awkward by today's standards.  The things that were considered proper when I was in high school and college are so passé nowadays!  We have many other types of proof of an ongoing relationship and I intend to be there for the interview.  I just wanted them to know that we have the support of my family too.  We have many photos of ourselves with his family.  I feel bad that we have none with mine, but I wanted them to be included in the day somehow or other.  If it is possible with her college schedule, I may bring my 20 year old daughter with me.  We'll see.  Thanks for any wisdom you can share.  I wish that my fiancé was from a low fraud country like Canada or England and I didn't have to worry as much!  It is unfortunate when the actions of others make the bona fide and honest couples have to stress out, and I think that the vast majority of us are honest.

[NigeriaorBust 4,088]

  A notary simply testifies that the person that signed presented to them valid identity papers.  They couldn't care if the paper was the biggest pack of lies, how would they know ?   As far as addressing the CO ,   not sure about the correct standard now days.  Being on the old side I wouldn't be surprised if "HEY YOU"   was acceptable.

[noraliz73 243]

2 hours ago, NigeriaorBust said:

  A notary simply testifies that the person that signed presented to them valid identity papers.  They couldn't care if the paper was the biggest pack of lies, how would they know ?   As far as addressing the CO ,   not sure about the correct standard now days.  Being on the old side I wouldn't be surprised if "HEY YOU"   was acceptable.

Well, at least they will know that it really was my parents that took the time to lie about us having a real relationship and carefully write a letter about it and show proper ID and pay money.  As far as I'm concerned, that shows that they are interested in him being approved and coming here.  And, that is what I want to show.  If the consulate will already have proof that his parents approve, I would like them to know that my parents are supporting our marriage as well.  Even if the main reason is so they don't have to hear me cry every day about how much I miss him!  Seriously, I think it is hard for them to see me in this holding pattern not being about to go on with my life or make decisions because we are just waiting to see what will happen.  It is not any easier on our families than it is on us because they can see how sad we are and they want us to be able to move on with life and be happy.  I really wish we had a "regular" situation where our whole family could get together.  Maybe one day!  I do not encourage anyone to look for love in another country.  It seems that when you are not looking, though, it finds you!!!! 

[TBoneTX 48,544]

On 1/29/2018 at 12:10 PM, noraliz73 said:

in support of your relationship for the interview portion of the process, what was helpful?

As the petitioner, be on the consular premises, or within range thereof, during the first visa interview.

 

This adds some credibility to claims of a bona fide relationship, and it enables the CO to call in the petitioner to ask questions that otherwise would necessitate a 221g or other delay.

 

Furthermore, yours is not the easiest consulate with which to deal.

 

Write something if you want, but honestly?  In comparison with presence at the interview, it's "letters, schmetters."