LovinJA

Hi July Filers.

We sent our AOS in on July2, it was received on July 3. We received our NOA1 July 16th, with a Notice date of July 11. I have read the thread, and it looks like our timing is in trend so far. And by the way, I can't pull our case up online yet either. I actually called USCIS, and after waiting about 10 Min. the supervisor told me it was a valid case number, but he could only give my husband the status....

So, waiting for the Biometrics appt. letter now.... Just out of curiosity, I am wondering what center others AOS is being processed out of. Our receipt number starts with MSC, which after looking on the USCIS website seems to be the National Benefits Center in Missouri. I thought that was kind of strange. And when I looked at their processing times, they don't even have the I 485 as one of the forms they process.... So, my husband will be calling tomorrow to find out the status. Has anyone else looked at where their application is being processed?

Good luck everyone!

OK that didn't work.

In "bringing family members to the USA"

Isn't this crazy, now there's drama for you

Now that we have expelled all that energy in a pissing match let us just calm down and realize that when you post on this site, you are posting to people with very diverse personalities. We are not a cheering team, waving pom poms and encouraging everyone on despite whatever opinions they may have. We are all supportive of people who embark on this journey, but at the end of the day we all have strong opinions about one thing or another and we will sometimes express them. I am not going to hit back tat for tat with the young lady who thinks that I have no children so I do not understand her need to take care of her child. After all I am Caribbean born, with two children. Came here as a fiance years ago and now an American citizen bringing a fiance here. So I guess I really do not know. As a Caribbean man, I felt offended by what she proposes as an option for a Jamaican bro. But again that is my opinion and I did not expres it in a nasty or offensive way. I try my best to say little as possible on here because sometimes you get the feeling that a lot of people looking for support no matter how outrageous they sound. But when stuff is cruddy, I am going to break my silence and say so.

I will continue to read, and I will continue to post. But for those who come on here hoping that they are going to be applauded and cheered and encouraged no matter what they say or do, I am not sure that you are in the right forum. As i stated before Caribbean men are a proud people and just because we sometimes come from countries where the standard of living may not be on par with the US, that does not say that we are any less passionate about who we are. Sometimes the views expressed on here by some make us appear as substandard people and I just chalk it up to ignorance and leave it at that. So I am going to chalk this one up to ignorance again and just move on. Cause at the end of the day, we know who we are deep down inside and if the truth hurts, then so be it. Just do not ask me to shut up cause you cannot stand the pain.

I am in love with a Jamaican man because he is proud and passionate. I completely understand the man that I am marrying.... and I love the life that my finance lives in Jamaica and we have plans to move there once my daughter is out of school, so I don't knock the standard of living at all, and would never consider anyone from there substandard.... again, assuming.... the thing I cannot stand.

I have learned a valuable lesson in these posts.... I came here to get information, and encourage others in this journey along the way, and share my story in hopes that it would assist others. I did not come here to be judged by people that don't know me or my situation.... and have others fears, shortcomings, and insecurities from their experiences imposed on me. So maybe I should have just kept it surface, discussing the technical stuff. Whatever the case, I wish everyone well. But, I am getting enough BS from the people I love, don't need it from strangers I really don't give a damn about...

Hey VJ Family!

I got in last night from Jamaica and felt a serious sense of sadness pulling up in my driveway without my honey! The trip was extremely successful, we got approved for the visa, I got to know his family a lot better, and my daughter was able to spend time with my honey to develop a relationship with him prior to him coming here. I was hoping that he would be able to come back with us, but our interview was on 3/27 and of course the visa didn't come in time.... based on all that I have read, and the experience Texas Bound is having, I don't expect him before the beginning of May.... which is probably for the best, because I have some preparations to make....

Ok... I've been gone for over a week, so I've read all of the posts to catch up.... so, I will first describe my experience with the interview, and then would like to comment on some topics discussed....

Our interview was very straight forward, no nastiness like what Ricardo faced! Section A she asked for all of the documents.... didn't specify which documents, and because of everyone else posting their experiences, I was prepared with all of my documents, from the 157, 157K, 230 Pt. 1 &2, Affidavit of support, all supporting financial documentation, Notarized letter of intent from me, his No-Impediment, Police Record, Birth Certificate, Passport Photos, Receipt from paymaster..... everything was in an envelope in a logical order. So when she asked for it, I pulled it out and handed it to her. She went through everything, checking off on her list as she looked at the paperwork. No Problem....

Then at the next window they took his fingerprints.... no problem. Third window.... interview. The lady asked him basic questions about me, asked him to write my name, and asked to see pictures.... no problem. It was nothing like what I had prepared myself for... I think it just boils down to who you get as the interviewer.... and being prepared for anything!After the interview, we were able to spend a wonderful week together.... no complaints, no problems... his family was so gracious and welcoming (we stayed with his mother). My daughter felt at home, I felt at home, and it was simply paradise!

Now, my issue now is very similar to other posts regarding family acceptance of our SO's. I have an 11 yr. old daughter, and my fiance is 24.... my family is flippin out! I just told them he is coming (they don't know about this process or that we are getting married). They say I don't really know him because I have only been around him in a vacation setting.... I am opening the door for tragedy to occur that could permanently ruin my daughter..... How can I make such an irresponsible decision to bring this young man into my home around my daughter! I am 11 years older than my fiance. To make matters worse, I have not had the best luck with relationships in the past.... I admit that I have rushed into relationships, been in two failed marriages that only lasted 7 months each ( I ended both of them)! I will say for certain however, that nothing has every kept me down, the marriages didn't work, but I kept it moving, and never found myself in a worse off situation. I am very responsible, maintain my own home, bills, and am a damn good mother! My daughter and I are very close and we discuss everything! I understand my family's concern, but am upset that they don't think that I've thought about any of this! All they want to do is focus on my bad decisions in the past. They don't consider that I am grown, responsible, and don't ask anyone for anything.... Not to mention, they don't seem to have any concern for me any other time... no one calls to see if I need anything... if I need any help around the house.... need my grass cut.... but now everyone wants to give input on my choice of a mate!!! I am pissed!

I know that they love me and my daughter and don't want to see us hurt, but they don't know how much they are hurting me right now. I don't want him to come here and on top of all the other issues we will be faced with, have to deal with the nastiness of my family! So, I have decided that he will get an apartment for 3 months when he gets here. That will give he and my daughter time to be totally comfortable with each other (they hit it off fine when they met), and it will give time for my family to get to know him. It will be an additional burden on us financially, but I belive it will be worth it in the long run. I have been searching today for rooms for rent, or apt's to share in my area and have come across a few. So, I am hopeful to have something lined up for him. Also, I will be inquiring about work for him working with a contractor, or Lawn care company so that he can have some income coming in right away (where he gets paid cash for each job he does... there are alot of those types of jobs around). This way he will be busy, and making some money until we get the AOS. I am hoping this plan makes things easier for us. I really understand my family, but I also understand that my fiance is leaving familiar territory, supportive family, and his homeland to be with me. I know that has to be scary and hard, and I want to help make the transition as stress free as possible.....

So thank you to everyone that has shared their experiences.... I wish us all success and happiness!

My take on this is that if you feel that having him stay in his own apartment is best for YOU and your DAUGHTER, then you are definitely doing the right thing.

If on the other hand, you are doing ir BECAUSE OF your family, I would definitely re-think.

Basically, you are a grown woman, YOU know what's best for YOU, do not allow anyone to DECIDE that on YOUR behalf.....

Would ask though, how does your finace feel about living seperately??

Ie, waking up the morning after he gets here in a strange house on his own??

I wish you the best in your journey, I hope the choice you make is the best one

Thanks.

I have thought about why I came to that decision to make sure it was for the right reasons. And, I talked to my daughter about it. I don't want her to feel that I am forcing my fiance on her. She is used to it just being her and I.... Although she likes him, she did express that she would feel more comfortable being around him a while longer and getting to know him better before he moves in the house with us. So that is the main reason I am doing this. The fact that it will give everyone time to get to know him, and ease the stress.... is a big plus.

I guess I should not have made it sound like it was my decision alone. I of course discussed this extensively with my fiance. He totally understood my reasoning, and agreed that this would be the best course of action for now. The plan is to find someplace within 5 min. of my house, and he will likely spend most of the time here at the house. He doesn't want me to be stressed, he doesn't want my daughter to be uncomfortable, so he totally supports this decision. He is truely wonderful!

I do agree with others that the 3 months is a critical time to get to know one another up close and personal. I believe I can still do that even though he will have a seperate place. We will still spend the majority of our time at our home, and will definitely see each other daily. It will also give him an opportunity to establish friendships. We are not looking for an apt. actually but more of a roommate situation. I found a few yesterday where STRAIGHT men were looking to rent rooms in their condo/house. I have an appt. on Saturday to check out one about 5 min. from me.

I personally think that is THE WORSE decision you could possibly make....living apart. As a parent of a 13 yr old (single mom from day one) and VERY VEEEERY close to my son.....this is YOUR decision, your CHILD needs to respect YOUR decision in bringing him into YOUR immediate family!!! You won't change the opinions of your parents, but your child is what matters the most, which is great she would want to be comfortable and you value her opinions, she's also 11.....but maybe that's when you could have taken more time in getting to know him together (in trips to Jamaica---which we veterans have stated NUMEROUS times is absolutely and completely different than living here) and not have gone through the process until SHE felt "more comfortable".

TRUST ME, you NEED to live together, especially that you have a child, because the situation is WAY different than it would be if it was JUST the 2 of you. What happens when you get married on the 90th day and you "move in", and you DO NOT get along????? and who is to say that after the 3 months he (or your daughter) says that "they aren't ready"????

You do know he still has up to 6 months (after the VISA is approved) to arrive into the states???

Also, I would assume with immigration, that would be a HUUUUUGE RED FLAG to them showing that he came here to "live on his own" and NOT live with YOU as stated on ALL of your paperwork????

My family doesn't know about Craig, don't need to because I am not living for them, I'm living for myself !!

Also, you are giving ANY (young) Jamaican THEIR LIFE DREAM, to come here to the states and have someone pay for their OWN place, food, lights, cable ...actually anything and to NOT HAVE to "live like the family" they KNEW they were coming here to do in the 1st place??????????????? Just sounds crazy to me !!!!

Just my honest opinion from someone who has been there and done that !!!!! Who are you marrying your family or your fiance??

I am sitting here totally bewildered.

So he comes to the US and he and your daughter do not get along intially. What happens after 3 months? Do you extend the lease and see how things go. I am going to put aside the whole fiance situation for a min and just deal with this from the perspective that I am not sure your jamaican fiance is trying you on for size so why are YOU trying him on for size?This is a life changing, give everything up and move scenario. We Americans have to understand that just because some Jamaicas are so keen to move here does not necessarily give us the right to encourage them to move from thier comfort zone while we try to work out these domestic situations. I am reading on here about people being afraid to face parents about thier decsions, or face family , or face children. There is a certain sequence of events that should take place before we get our foreign fiance's to make this major sacrifice and move to the United States. Getting the family, children , parents and the like on board is something that needs to be resolved BEFORE if they are that important. Cause if I am an Jamaican fiance and I move to the US and then have an American fiance tell me that either the kids, parents , friends, or the likes do not like me so I have to go back, I may not necessarily take it so nicely. Leave him in Jamaica until you are certain you are going to stick it out no matter what. When he moves here, it should be straight to your home, to your bed and whereever you are from the day he arrives.Besides the obvious problems with immigration, what kind of security are you providing him in this situation. If I was the Jamaican fiance and you came to me with a proposal like this............you will get a rather rude crash course in Jamaican patois and it would not sound good.

Because you are ignorant to me and the intricacies of my situation, I will let some of your comments slide. First off, I am not trying anyone on for size.... if your read my post thoroughly, you would have realized that I understand his sacrifice in coming over here, and his comfort and security is as important as my daughters. You truely sound like someone with no children and no true family ties, so I will take into consideration that ignorance as well. Because I love my fiance, my daughter and my family, I have a dilema.... and am attempting to find a way in which I can keep my family in tact (my entire family). I never said anything about sending him back if it doesn't work out.... and you know what assuming does.....He and I are committed to one another.... and I am not an "American" who stereotypes anyone so I won't even respond to that.

If whatever our chosen path to attempt to salvage my family ties does not work, I will happily walk away with my husband and daughter.... but I will at least be able to say I tried. The bottom line is this, my family has always been there for me, and they will eventually come around, but if we can make it easier in the beginning for EVERYONE, we are both eager to do that.... My fiance comes from a close knit, supportive family as well. Because he does love me, and he understands the importance of family (when you have a good one), he wants the bond to remain as well. So again, we will make the best decision for us. That is why HE is my fiance.... Everyone's situation is different. Maybe your sequence of events were the right way for you..... congratulations. But don't impose your way or pass judgement on anyone because they don't follow the same path.

I personally think that is THE WORSE decision you could possibly make....living apart. TRUST ME, you NEED to live together, especially that you have a child, because the situation is WAY different than it would be if it was JUST the 2 of you. What happens when you get married on the 90th day and you "move in", and you DO NOT get along????? and who is to say that after the 3 months he (or your daughter) says that "they aren't ready"????

I have read all the posts and I have to say I 10000000% agree with what Kelly is saying. YOU are the one who fell in love with this man -- not your daughter or your family. HE needs to live with the two of you. If by living with you and your daughter you feel you are "pushing" him on her -- then, hate to say it but, maybe he should stay in Jamaica.

I totally agree. But trust me, I know how you feel. My daughter was 12 when Damien came here. She never met him..only a few phone conversations. We agreed if they didn't get along or have any problems..we would not get married. Not to say things will happen after you married but we would have not known if we didn't live together. Things worked out...much better than I thought. I make sure I divide my time with each one and we do lots of family things together.

Thanks to everyone for their opinion..... Ultimately, I will of course make the best decision for my family (myself, fiance, and daughter). We will be discussing it more and come to an agreement as a family unit.

Hey VJ Family!

I got in last night from Jamaica and felt a serious sense of sadness pulling up in my driveway without my honey! The trip was extremely successful, we got approved for the visa, I got to know his family a lot better, and my daughter was able to spend time with my honey to develop a relationship with him prior to him coming here. I was hoping that he would be able to come back with us, but our interview was on 3/27 and of course the visa didn't come in time.... based on all that I have read, and the experience Texas Bound is having, I don't expect him before the beginning of May.... which is probably for the best, because I have some preparations to make....

Ok... I've been gone for over a week, so I've read all of the posts to catch up.... so, I will first describe my experience with the interview, and then would like to comment on some topics discussed....

Our interview was very straight forward, no nastiness like what Ricardo faced! Section A she asked for all of the documents.... didn't specify which documents, and because of everyone else posting their experiences, I was prepared with all of my documents, from the 157, 157K, 230 Pt. 1 &2, Affidavit of support, all supporting financial documentation, Notarized letter of intent from me, his No-Impediment, Police Record, Birth Certificate, Passport Photos, Receipt from paymaster..... everything was in an envelope in a logical order. So when she asked for it, I pulled it out and handed it to her. She went through everything, checking off on her list as she looked at the paperwork. No Problem....

Then at the next window they took his fingerprints.... no problem. Third window.... interview. The lady asked him basic questions about me, asked him to write my name, and asked to see pictures.... no problem. It was nothing like what I had prepared myself for... I think it just boils down to who you get as the interviewer.... and being prepared for anything!After the interview, we were able to spend a wonderful week together.... no complaints, no problems... his family was so gracious and welcoming (we stayed with his mother). My daughter felt at home, I felt at home, and it was simply paradise!

Now, my issue now is very similar to other posts regarding family acceptance of our SO's. I have an 11 yr. old daughter, and my fiance is 24.... my family is flippin out! I just told them he is coming (they don't know about this process or that we are getting married). They say I don't really know him because I have only been around him in a vacation setting.... I am opening the door for tragedy to occur that could permanently ruin my daughter..... How can I make such an irresponsible decision to bring this young man into my home around my daughter! I am 11 years older than my fiance. To make matters worse, I have not had the best luck with relationships in the past.... I admit that I have rushed into relationships, been in two failed marriages that only lasted 7 months each ( I ended both of them)! I will say for certain however, that nothing has every kept me down, the marriages didn't work, but I kept it moving, and never found myself in a worse off situation. I am very responsible, maintain my own home, bills, and am a damn good mother! My daughter and I are very close and we discuss everything! I understand my family's concern, but am upset that they don't think that I've thought about any of this! All they want to do is focus on my bad decisions in the past. They don't consider that I am grown, responsible, and don't ask anyone for anything.... Not to mention, they don't seem to have any concern for me any other time... no one calls to see if I need anything... if I need any help around the house.... need my grass cut.... but now everyone wants to give input on my choice of a mate!!! I am pissed!

I know that they love me and my daughter and don't want to see us hurt, but they don't know how much they are hurting me right now. I don't want him to come here and on top of all the other issues we will be faced with, have to deal with the nastiness of my family! So, I have decided that he will get an apartment for 3 months when he gets here. That will give he and my daughter time to be totally comfortable with each other (they hit it off fine when they met), and it will give time for my family to get to know him. It will be an additional burden on us financially, but I belive it will be worth it in the long run. I have been searching today for rooms for rent, or apt's to share in my area and have come across a few. So, I am hopeful to have something lined up for him. Also, I will be inquiring about work for him working with a contractor, or Lawn care company so that he can have some income coming in right away (where he gets paid cash for each job he does... there are alot of those types of jobs around). This way he will be busy, and making some money until we get the AOS. I am hoping this plan makes things easier for us. I really understand my family, but I also understand that my fiance is leaving familiar territory, supportive family, and his homeland to be with me. I know that has to be scary and hard, and I want to help make the transition as stress free as possible.....

So thank you to everyone that has shared their experiences.... I wish us all success and happiness!

My take on this is that if you feel that having him stay in his own apartment is best for YOU and your DAUGHTER, then you are definitely doing the right thing.

If on the other hand, you are doing ir BECAUSE OF your family, I would definitely re-think.

Basically, you are a grown woman, YOU know what's best for YOU, do not allow anyone to DECIDE that on YOUR behalf.....

Would ask though, how does your finace feel about living seperately??

Ie, waking up the morning after he gets here in a strange house on his own??

I wish you the best in your journey, I hope the choice you make is the best one

Thanks.

I have thought about why I came to that decision to make sure it was for the right reasons. And, I talked to my daughter about it. I don't want her to feel that I am forcing my fiance on her. She is used to it just being her and I.... Although she likes him, she did express that she would feel more comfortable being around him a while longer and getting to know him better before he moves in the house with us. So that is the main reason I am doing this. The fact that it will give everyone time to get to know him, and ease the stress.... is a big plus.

I guess I should not have made it sound like it was my decision alone. I of course discussed this extensively with my fiance. He totally understood my reasoning, and agreed that this would be the best course of action for now. The plan is to find someplace within 5 min. of my house, and he will likely spend most of the time here at the house. He doesn't want me to be stressed, he doesn't want my daughter to be uncomfortable, so he totally supports this decision. He is truely wonderful!

I do agree with others that the 3 months is a critical time to get to know one another up close and personal. I believe I can still do that even though he will have a seperate place. We will still spend the majority of our time at our home, and will definitely see each other daily. It will also give him an opportunity to establish friendships. We are not looking for an apt. actually but more of a roommate situation. I found a few yesterday where STRAIGHT men were looking to rent rooms in their condo/house. I have an appt. on Saturday to check out one about 5 min. from me.

Hey VJ Family!

I got in last night from Jamaica and felt a serious sense of sadness pulling up in my driveway without my honey! The trip was extremely successful, we got approved for the visa, I got to know his family a lot better, and my daughter was able to spend time with my honey to develop a relationship with him prior to him coming here. I was hoping that he would be able to come back with us, but our interview was on 3/27 and of course the visa didn't come in time.... based on all that I have read, and the experience Texas Bound is having, I don't expect him before the beginning of May.... which is probably for the best, because I have some preparations to make....

Ok... I've been gone for over a week, so I've read all of the posts to catch up.... so, I will first describe my experience with the interview, and then would like to comment on some topics discussed....

Our interview was very straight forward, no nastiness like what Ricardo faced! Section A she asked for all of the documents.... didn't specify which documents, and because of everyone else posting their experiences, I was prepared with all of my documents, from the 157, 157K, 230 Pt. 1 &2, Affidavit of support, all supporting financial documentation, Notarized letter of intent from me, his No-Impediment, Police Record, Birth Certificate, Passport Photos, Receipt from paymaster..... everything was in an envelope in a logical order. So when she asked for it, I pulled it out and handed it to her. She went through everything, checking off on her list as she looked at the paperwork. No Problem....

Then at the next window they took his fingerprints.... no problem. Third window.... interview. The lady asked him basic questions about me, asked him to write my name, and asked to see pictures.... no problem. It was nothing like what I had prepared myself for... I think it just boils down to who you get as the interviewer.... and being prepared for anything!After the interview, we were able to spend a wonderful week together.... no complaints, no problems... his family was so gracious and welcoming (we stayed with his mother). My daughter felt at home, I felt at home, and it was simply paradise!

Now, my issue now is very similar to other posts regarding family acceptance of our SO's. I have an 11 yr. old daughter, and my fiance is 24.... my family is flippin out! I just told them he is coming (they don't know about this process or that we are getting married). They say I don't really know him because I have only been around him in a vacation setting.... I am opening the door for tragedy to occur that could permanently ruin my daughter..... How can I make such an irresponsible decision to bring this young man into my home around my daughter! I am 11 years older than my fiance. To make matters worse, I have not had the best luck with relationships in the past.... I admit that I have rushed into relationships, been in two failed marriages that only lasted 7 months each ( I ended both of them)! I will say for certain however, that nothing has every kept me down, the marriages didn't work, but I kept it moving, and never found myself in a worse off situation. I am very responsible, maintain my own home, bills, and am a damn good mother! My daughter and I are very close and we discuss everything! I understand my family's concern, but am upset that they don't think that I've thought about any of this! All they want to do is focus on my bad decisions in the past. They don't consider that I am grown, responsible, and don't ask anyone for anything.... Not to mention, they don't seem to have any concern for me any other time... no one calls to see if I need anything... if I need any help around the house.... need my grass cut.... but now everyone wants to give input on my choice of a mate!!! I am pissed!

I know that they love me and my daughter and don't want to see us hurt, but they don't know how much they are hurting me right now. I don't want him to come here and on top of all the other issues we will be faced with, have to deal with the nastiness of my family! So, I have decided that he will get an apartment for 3 months when he gets here. That will give he and my daughter time to be totally comfortable with each other (they hit it off fine when they met), and it will give time for my family to get to know him. It will be an additional burden on us financially, but I belive it will be worth it in the long run. I have been searching today for rooms for rent, or apt's to share in my area and have come across a few. So, I am hopeful to have something lined up for him. Also, I will be inquiring about work for him working with a contractor, or Lawn care company so that he can have some income coming in right away (where he gets paid cash for each job he does... there are alot of those types of jobs around). This way he will be busy, and making some money until we get the AOS. I am hoping this plan makes things easier for us. I really understand my family, but I also understand that my fiance is leaving familiar territory, supportive family, and his homeland to be with me. I know that has to be scary and hard, and I want to help make the transition as stress free as possible.....

So thank you to everyone that has shared their experiences.... I wish us all success and happiness!

Good luck, LovinJA and Ricardo!!!

Thanks!!! I'm so excited that the date is almost here!!

GOOD MORNING YARDIES!!!

OK I'M BACK!!! FIRST I'M GONNA LET YOU ALL KNOW THAT I FINALLY WON THE FIGHT TO GO TO KINGSTON THE NIGHT BEFORE THE INTERVIEW MY FIANCEE HAS A FRIEND WHO LIVES IN PORTMORE KINGSTON AND WE STAYED AT HER HOUSE.

THINGS STARTED OFF A LITTLE SCARY FOR ME... FIRST WE FORGOT TO GO TO THE PAYMASTER TO PAY FOR THE INTERVIEW ON SAUTRDAY... THEY ARE CLOSED ON SUNDAY SO WE DECIDED WE'D GO ON MONDAY... WELL HE WAITED UNTIL 4:30 TO GO TO THE PAYMASTER... WE GOT THERE AND THEY WERE CLOSED FOR THE DAY SO WE WENT ON OUR JOURNEY TO KINGSTON AND FIGURED WE WOULD GET IT IN THE MORNING. WE ARRIVED AT THE PAY MASTER AT 6:00 am... THEY DON'T OPEN UNTIL 8:00. ONCE THEY OPEN WE GO IN TO PAY AND THEY TELL US THAT WE CAN'T PAY FOR IT IN US DOLLARS!!! NOW I'M REALLY STARTING TO PANIC BY THIS TIME IT WAS 8:15. WE GO TO THE BANK DOWN THE STREET AND THEY DON'T OPEN UNTIL 8:45. THIS IS WHERE I REALLY START TO PRAY... I STARTED TO THINK THAT TOO MANY THINGS ARE GOING WRONG... THIS IS NOT A GOOD SIGN. WE GOT THE MONEY TRANSFERED AND WENT BACK TO THE PAYMASTER... WE FINALLY ARRIVE AT THE EMBASSY AT 9:05

ONCE INSIDE THE COMPUND WE WAITED UNTIL 10:15 BEFORE WE GOT IN... I THINK WE HAD THE SAME DRY RUDE WOMAN THAT TEXASBOUND HAD ( WINDOW 12). SHE ASKED FOR OUR PAPERS, I GAVE HER WHAT SHE WANTED, AND MY TAXES FOR 2004-2006, SHE ONLY KEPT 05-06. THEN TOLD US TO SIT IN SECTION B AND WAIT FOR OUR NAME TO BE CALLED. WE WERE THEN CALLED TO WINDOW 15 WHERE THEY TOOK HIS FINGERS PRINTS AND TOLD US TO GO SIT IN SECTION C AND WAIT TO BE CALLED. WE WERE THEN CALLED TO WINOW 22 WHERE WE WERE INTERVIEWED.

THAT LADY WAS VERY NICE. THE QUESTIONS SHE ASKED WERE:

HIM

1. WHEN WAS THE FIST TIME YOU MET?

2. WHERE AND HOW DID YOU MEET?

3. WHEN DID YOU PROPOSE?

4. WHEN DO YOU PLAN TO MARRY?

5. WHAT ARE HER KIDS NAMES?

6. WHAT DOES SHE DO FOR A LIVING??

7. DOES SHE HAVE A RING?

ME

1. WHAT DO I DO FOR A LIVING?

2. HOW MANY KIDS DO I HAVE?

3. SHE ASKED ABOUT THE AGE DIFFERENCE.

THEN SAID WELCOME TO THE US, THAT WE WERE APPROVED TOLD US TO GO TO AIRPAK AND PAY FOR THE DELIVERY FEE

SHE DIDN'T ASK FOR OR LOOK AT "ANY" OF OUR PROOF OF RELATIONSHIP.

Thanks for the info Sonshyne. I am so glad things went smoothly for you. Any news on the visa.... That seems to be the next hurdle.

I am happy to say we have all of our paperwork in order and are ready for Tues.!!! Getting the No-Impediment was the biggest hurdle. He finally got it today after sitting in the Registrar Generals for 4 hours. on Wed., and then going back today and standing outside the embassy for 2 1/2 hours waiting for someone to bring it out to him!

Word to the wise.... don't fall for the 7 day expidite of the No-Impediment! Order it as soon as possible because they are very unorganized at the Registrar Generals and you will be biting your nails waiting on them at the last minute!

Good luck to everyone interviewing on Tues..... May we all be victorious!!!

hi everyone it has taking me awhile to get access to a computer. So now that i'm in the US what should i expect. The flight over from jamaica was nice. the procedure at the airport was ok. When should i expect to get my green card. u see my mother works at a hospital and was seeking a job for but they told i would have a green card to get the job.

WELCOME TO THE US

Welcome, welcome lovelyjodie. And congratulations to Sonshyne!!!!!

Thank you jlvr

Congratulations and welcome to the good ole U S of A.....

Question, please. When our fiance(e)s are sent packet 3, they just return the DS230 to the embassy and then the wait starts for the interview date, right? What do they need to do to return the DS230? I mean, do they just walk up to a window at the embassy and hand it in? Do they speak to someone outside that directs them to where they need to go inside?

when mike went a year ago....he just went inside and handed it off...i thought some ppl were posting saying you needed a appt. time not sure someone who has gone through that part recently should post and let you know what the new way is....

Thank you. I got an email reply from the embassy saying they could not give an appointment because DS230 had not been returned. I don't think they make an appointment for it. I just wondered if there was a specific thing they needed to say or a specific window to go to or something. I know that you can't just walk into the embassy, so I want to be able to tell my fiance what he needs to do and say to drop it off.

I don't know if they've even sent the packet out to him, but I'm not waiting, I know it's going to take long enough as it is to get the interview date.

I think what they are saying to you is they cannot give you an "Interview" date until the DS230 is turned in. Things have changed at the Embassy -- before, you could just go to the "Information Window" and drop of the DS230 -- NOW -- I believe they are requiring you to MAKE AN APPOINTMENT to drop anything off. Like Shauna said -- you really should confirm this with someone who has just recently done this at the Embassy

Okay.

So, recent interviewees: what was the procedure for dropping of the DS230 at the embassy. Does the fiance have to call or email to schedule an appointment or can they just take it to the embassy? If they can just take it there, is there a specific place in the embassy that they need to go?

Thanks.

My fiance had an appt. to drop of the DS230. He also had an appt. to pick up the packet with the interview letter because we thought it got lost in the mail..... it actually showed up a week after he picked it up. But, I had already called the embassy and gotten the interview date.... So, you definitely need an appt. to drop of the DS230. You need an appt. for everything...

:dance: :dance: Just heard from Sonshyne! VISA APPROVED!!!!!!!! :dance:

Yeah!!!! Congratulations Sonshyne!!! We're on a roll!!!! Next up...... Ricardo....Ebony_Sean....LovinJA!!!

texas bound .......yeah yeah went down there and did the damn thing hope you can bring back ur honey.

Hello my family!!!! I am back in Texas. Unfortunately my sweetie did not get the Airpak info in time to travel back with me!!! This was very frustrating having to leave him again & the fact that I was assured by my interviewer that everything would be in my hands prior to our travel date---which was 7 days later!!! Anyway, I came, I went & I conquered. My trip was stressful due to the waiting with Airpak. But I got what I came for ---an APPROVAL. My interview was very, very UNLIKE any I’ve heard of. It was very professional in all aspects. We arrived at 7:30am, the line was pretty short around 15 people in front of us. I went over his original information he received in the mail---& sure enough there were things I had not seen before –like the request for a right side profile shot of him, notarized I-864 for co sponsor etc. Fyi, someone screwed up our photos we received the night before regarding the side profile shot so we went across the street from the embassy that a.m. & had them re done instantly. It was very early in the a.m. & the Rastas were actually open for business. We went into the compound and were advised to put our names on the back of our photos. We were given a slip of paper that gave instructions for Visa Pick up – Airpak. We were told to sign the DS 230 (the requestor did not say part I—which could have been confusing to many), but you only sign part I & once inside in front of the embassy interviewer you sign part II. They let you in by groups according to your times so we waited a bit outside on the benches. We were pretty comfortable as we played tic tac toe like kids & laughed & talked. I mean at this point this was the day we waited for & were ready. Once inside they have 3 separate sections. 1st section they called my sweetie to the window for fingerprints & also took his photo. 2nd section rude- pushy lady asked for our paperwork. I asked her which ones did she want, & she curtly stated Do you not know what you need to turn in, you can sit down if you are not ready?, I responded patiently, calmly & professionally, Iam ready & continued to pull my paperwork out, according to the way I had them filed in my binder. I started to give her the list. It was soooooo evident she did not know what to ask me for ---no list or anything because as I was pulling the documents out someone walked up to her & gave her my original packet & was talking to her. After that person left she began reading off what was needed. She even forgot to ask for the DS 157 (as my interviewer later asked for it). Next Section 3 -----we sat up front & listened as other people were drilled!!!!! It was unbelievable how they truly question some of them. It is so evident that some were borderline fraudulent & un prepared.

She said to me that my information packet had quite a bit of info & was one of the biggest. I thanked her for the compliment. She also asked me what my binder was that I had & I advised her “This was more evidence for proof of relationship.” She said you are prepared & I said “Yes, this is the day & purpose of my application.” We were interviewed together, & were asked only a few questions. They asked me what do I do for a living. Do I have any children? They asked him why he loved me; where do I live, do I have a large family, how many sisters do I have? That was pretty much it. She was soooo friendly & accommodating. She asked me for 2006 taxes (I had already submitted 2005 to Section II lady which reflected majority of Business income). She said she just wanted to make sure I was over the poverty line & stated that my 2006 would likely be easier to read. I supplied it to her & advised her that I attempted to give 06 to the other lady & she did not want it. She did not ask for new evidence, photos, I-864, nothing. That is it, approved. I spoke to her about the time frame for release of the passport & she stated that there would not be a problem because she would have them printed the next day & should be ready by Friday. -------------- Didn’t happen though. Oh well. As many before me have said, have all of your paperwork ready & you will succeed. I will give you the same advice I gave my sweetie “They will try to rush you, don’t feel pressured just give them everything at your pace, you take control & be confident” Thank you all fellow board members for your guidance.

Congratulations!!! I am sorry to hear the visa was not provided in time though! I hope he gets it soon!

Your description of your experience is very conforting. I have wanted to believe that as long as I have everything in order, we will be fine. And your experience has confirmed that. I am so happy that everything went smoothly for you.

Question:

Would you suggest I have a packet to hand off to the person in the 2nd section? Packet including DS 156, 156K, 157, 230Pt. 1 & 2, I134 and supporting evidence(taxes, letter from bank and employer, paystubs, bank statements, divorce decree, 401K info., No Impediment, Police Certificate, Passport Photos, Birth Certificate (fiance), Passport (fiance).

Then just keep evidence of relationship for interviewer?

I want to make this as easy as possible and don't want to have to pull papers out of my file while standing at the window.

Congrats again!!!!

We have an interview for May 3rd at 12:15pm Finally he should be here by the end of the school year. Then we will have all the time to be together alone and look at each other with nothing to say. He took my ear off on the phone not about the interview but something was happening with the cricket game. Cricket I just don't get it. We have Cub tickets for July so he will have to sit threw that with my family LOL and he won't get it.

Congratulations, I'm glad you finally have a date!

Wow, looking at your timeline, it took six weeks just to get your interview date. At that rate, even if the embassy gets my application this week, we won't even know the date until the end of May.

Jlvr I hate to be the bearer of bad news but it took 14 weeks for us to get an interview once my case was received in Kingston. That is 100 days ugh. Hang in there .

Where is Mindy today it is too quiet here.

Welcome home FutureMrs - Hope you had a wonderful trip!

Sonshyne - Where are you???Waiting to hear the good news!!!!

We got the no-impediment today - Yipppee!!! It only took him 5 hours at the R.G. office ..yikes!!!

I'm glad you got it.... I've been on the phone with them all day trying to get info on ours. They are so uncooperative with Americans! I finally called my fiance and told him he would have to deal with them because I don't think the women working there like American Women!!! He called, and they say he will be able to pick it up tomorrow.... after telling me he couldn't pick it up, although it isn't ready today and should have been ready yesterday....

Word to the wise.... get the no-impediment early.... I am praying he actually gets it tomorrow, since our interview is the 27th!

We have an interview for May 3rd at 12:15pm Finally he should be here by the end of the school year. Then we will have all the time to be together alone and look at each other with nothing to say. He took my ear off on the phone not about the interview but something was happening with the cricket game. Cricket I just don't get it. We have Cub tickets for July so he will have to sit threw that with my family LOL and he won't get it.

Congratulations!!!

i think i read that he'll need the noa2 letter in order to pick up packet 3. does it need to be the original noa2, or can i scan it for email/fax it to him?

Is this true???

Okay, so NVC has sent our application to Kingston as of 3/15. Now I'm really trying to get everything together, so here is what I am working with so far, and if I'm forgetting anything please let me know.

Items that I have/am getting and will send to fiance:

DS156 form - filled in online

DS156K form - typed

DS157 form - typed

DS230 form - typed

I134 form - handwritten (can't be filled in on computer)

-----Bank statements

-----4 years of tax returns/transcripts

-----Letter explaining income on 2005 tax return

-----Employer letter

-----Bank letter

Fiance letter of intent from me

Fiance letter of intent from him

Proof of relationship

-----Phone records ad phone cards(this is the only thing that exists after I129 filing)

-----Pictures of us(from before I129)

-----Letters (Originals or copies?)

Items that fiance has or must go and get:

Fiance's passport - has

6 Passport photos - must get

Fiance's long form birth certificate(pinkish red and green) - has

Police certificate from Kingston - must get

No-Impediment from from RGO - must get

Medical Examination - must get

And of course, $100 fee paid to Paymaster

Have I forgotten anything?

If you are working, paystubs.

If you've ever been married, divorce decree.

You can fill out the I134 online (probably better than hand written).

And you will also need the interview letter along with the other documents.

Congrats on getting one step closer!

hello everyone,

quick question - did anyone who got a blue paper at the embassy have to pay the $100 at paymaster again? we got all the way through the process, through the interview even, and THEN they said about the i-864 needed for our co-sponsor. i don't think we have to pay it again just to drop off the papers they need, but i'm certainly not going to ASSUME anything where they are concerned... any info would be greatly appreciated...thanks!

Happy Friday everyone!

Keishino- Sorry I cant answer your question.

Everyone have a great weekend! Stay warm!!!

hello! i am a newbie, and i have to admit that the amount of information on VJ is overwhelming! i am so thankful to have VJ as a resource. filing K-1 wouldn't have been possible without it! i just realized that there is a yaardie thread so i thought i'd go on an introduce myself to you all.

i've been in a long distance relationship with a jamaican fella for almost 4 years, and i'll be heading out on trip #11 in a few weeks. we are currently awaiting for noa2, and i'd like to bring all necessary documents post-noa2 to my fiance on this trip. so i'll be spending my free time this weekend perusing this thread to take advantage of all the information here.

looking forward to getting acquainted!

~mydestinyawaits

Welcome!!! This is a great place for support and information

Congratulations CamButler!!!! He'll be here before you know it!!!

DS 156 Question!!!

1. My fiance got his passport in Ochi but is telling me to put Kingston as the place of issuance (#2 on the DS 156)...any thoughts on this???

uummm it's kingston...

and lovinja....they should have given it to him....but ask for it at the embassy....after approved and ask for....it heard some where that they might be getting rid of the whole civil surgeon thing as well....so you might be in luck if you don't get it.....but remind hime to bring his vacination card with him to the states!

ebony.....you have to go to a registars office to pay for it before the interview...he needs to bring the reciept with him to the interview...then once he gets it he has to pay arepack for them to deliever it,

Thanks. I will definitely be asking for it after we are approved.... I can't imagine them saying no...

Lovinja all we recieve was a copy of the shot record not the whole medical. Thats all you need for the civil surgeon.

Thanks ladies,

He did get a copies of his vaccinations.... so I guess we're ok. But we should still be able to get a copy of the medical... now I really want to see what's in it!

DS 156 Question!!!

1. My fiance got his passport in Ochi but is telling me to put Kingston as the place of issuance (#2 on the DS 156)...any thoughts on this???

uummm it's kingston...

and lovinja....they should have given it to him....but ask for it at the embassy....after approved and ask for....it heard some where that they might be getting rid of the whole civil surgeon thing as well....so you might be in luck if you don't get it.....but remind hime to bring his vacination card with him to the states!

ebony.....you have to go to a registars office to pay for it before the interview...he needs to bring the reciept with him to the interview...then once he gets it he has to pay arepack for them to deliever it,

Thanks. I will definitely be asking for it after we are approved.... I can't imagine them saying no...

I have a question regarding the medical....

I told my fiance to ask for a copy of what they send to the Embassy (I saw on this thread that you will need it when filing paperwork later down the line). He asked them, and the doctor said they can't provide a copy because it is confidential and is to go directly to the Embassy..... Here is my issue.... we paid for it, so shouldn't we be entitled to a copy???

Will we be able to get a copy at the Embassy??? My fiance says, "don't make an issue of it. We will ask at the embassy and if they say yes, we accept with a smile, if they say no, we accept with a smile. We don't want to mess anything up".... It's true that I don't want to put us being approved of the visa in jeopardy, but still.... it's the principle of the matter. We paid our money to get his medical, and we are entitled to a copy of the results.... It's his body!!!

Has anyone else experienced this, and at what point can we get a copy.... I am not one to bite my tongue.... but we have to get this visa so.... I'll have to figure out another way to get my point across

Know yourself and you will make good choices. Follow your heart.

:thumbs:

Hello everyone,

It is very difficult for other people to understand what we are doing and why we are doing it. I dont get so much of the prejudice stuff (I am white too) but the age difference and the different culture thing is a problem for some people. So many people have doubts about whether or not it is "real love" of an opportunity. That why this site is a gift. Only WE understand.

Continuation of our saga: I wrote the embassy today and they actually wrote back, miracle. The letter about the embassy doctor was just about immunizations and he is fully immunized so we are okay there BUT .. we are being "di****ed around" by the Registra General's office. We ordered the no-impediment back in the beginning of February, if you are a religious reader of the thread you know what we had to go through to get it in time for the last interview. His name was spelled wrong and so we had to request a new one that was supposed to be couriered to Ricardo last week. Now no one knows where it is and I am beaten. The courier says they dont have it. The Registra General's office said they sent it out. If we cant get it by next week I will have to cancel my flight. I will not go down there again unprepared, do to no fault or ours, and be turned away again. I am trying to get an answer but the clock is ticking. I will definately let you know how it turns out......

They have got to make some provisions for you since it is their fault. I would think it should be no problem for them to reprint the certificate and Ricardo can pick it up. I know it's a long drive to Kingston, but it would be worth it to have it a few days early to ensure there are no other issues. Call the Registrar General's office again and tell them you have to pick it up personally in time for your interview. Insist that it has been paid for, it was screwed up the first time, and it is imperative that you have it by Wed. of next week (the 21st). You've come too far to let this be another delay!!!

Know yourself and you will make good choices. Follow your heart.

:thumbs:

Sonshyne - Safe flight and good luck on the interview :dance:

Thanks I am leaving tonight I'll be in contact as soon as I can after the interview.

Positive Vibes..... Go get yo man!!!

I just got a e-mail from TexasBound... She has been approved

She said she is having trouble posting here, but that she would be back next week.

Congrats!!!

Ricardo,

I will call you.... but get on the phone with them Friday for sure! Send an email before that even.