PeterFB
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Posts posted by PeterFB
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I haven't heard from her in months, either. She did come to our wedding and visited us a couple of times but that was a while ago.
Peter and Thi
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Peter,
I am kind of in the same boat as J&Q. Xuan are married now and looking to file the AOS. Other then the documents listed on the guide is there anything else that would be helpful to send along. Like in the I-129 they wanted proof but as I found out later, it would have been helpful to send more then what they requested.
Also on Xuan's actual Visa there is a line that says the "Experiation date of the petition is 16 July 2009" but the I-94 expires 18 Aug 2009. Do we need to file the AOS before the petition expires? I am a bit confused on that part.
Any advice is as always helpful.
Thanks,
Jack & Xuan
Congrats on your marriage!!
Your next step is to file for AOS. Don't' worry about notifying the USCIS about your marriage or new apartment. Filing your AOS will do that. Also don't worry about when you file your AOS. Thi and I didn't file right away because we had to save for the AOS fee. That didn't cause us any problems. (It's true that it could cause problems because technically she was out of of status, however, the USCIS usually doesn't do anything about that.) Now we're waiting for her green card to show up. We've been norified that it's in production so it's coming soon.
Good luck!!
AOS is pretty simple. It's mainly the forms plus the docs about your financials, birth certificates (you need to have English translations of any Vietnamese docs), etc. A cover letter is a good idea where you tell the USCIS what it is you're sending them.
For the interview we took a lot of pictures, joint bills (gas, electric, etc), hospital bills for our son, etc. Unlike HCMC they ask you for any docs you think will help prove your relationship then look at them. You can also discuss your evidence. etc and they'll listen. There's a couple of posts about our interview you can find here if you want more details. But unless there's some issues, most of the time it's not a problem if you got married within the 90 days. For most people the interview is about 15 minutes, then you're approved.
The difference in the dates isn't inportant if you get married within 90 days of your arrival. If you don't then she's suppose to leave by the date of the I-94, unless she gets an extension possible in certain cases. If she's still in the US after that date, she falls out of status, ie becomes illegal which means possible fines, jail time, etc if the US decides to enforce the law. Filling for AOS should be done asap after the marriage when you have your marriage license, etc that you need for filling. However we didn't file until much later (see our timeline below) but that didn't cause any problems in our case.
The AOS is simple compared to the K1 Visa process.
Good Luck
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
Production of Green Card email 2009-6-18
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Congrats on your marriage!!
Your next step is to file for AOS. Don't' worry about notifying the USCIS about your marriage or new apartment. Filing your AOS will do that. Also don't worry about when you file your AOS. Thi and I didn't file right away because we had to save for the AOS fee. That didn't cause us any problems. (It's true that it could cause problems because technically she was out of of status, however, the USCIS usually doesn't do anything about that.) Now we're waiting for her green card to show up. We've been norified that it's in production so it's coming soon.
Good luck!!
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
Production of Green Card email 2009-6-18
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Having your timeline notorized isn't required for the interview. Many peope do it thinking it will help prove what the timeline says. However the only thing a notorized document does is prove that who signed it, not the information in it is true. The reason is if the document is called into question about who signed it, the notary will tesitfy that he saw you sign it and verified your indentity.
I didn't have our timeline notarized and we got our K1 Visa approved at her interview. It's more important to have a complete properly documented timeline in your I-134f and an updated one for the interview than the notary seal on it.
The times I've seen the Consulate ask for a notarized timeline is when you get a blue slip and one of the items requested is a timeline. Then they want to know who put the timeline together. Was it you or your lawyer, family friend, or ? Then the notarized timeline proves you made it.
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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For Thi's Interview, I was over there because I wanted to be there if anything happened, ie got a blue slip, only US citizens and residents can talk to the Consulate Officiers. If Thi had gotten a blue slip, I was planning on immediately addressing it and talking to the COs. I also had been emailing the Consulate about her interview and in the emails stated I would be at her interview, knowing of course I couldn't go inside. While I don't know if that had any effect, she did get her visa on her interview day.
As to getting the Packet 4 info in your email, I'm not sure about that. But our interview was Feb 2008 so things could have changed. However it is possible to pick it up at the Consulate. Knowing the Vietnamese mail system, that would be what I would suggest since the Packet 3 didn't arrive. If she's unable to get to the Consulate to pick them up and the Packet 4 info you got is complete and printable, I don't see why not. However I would contact the Consulate about that to be sure.
In any case, good luck!!!
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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Definitely stay on top of the Consulate!! Be polite and try to talk to the American COs as much as possible. From what you're saying, it seems had you prepared your I-134 better with a complete timeline, etc you could have a visa now. However, you now have supplied the Consulate with what they wanted so as hard as it is to wait, I believe you'll get your visa soon.
Good Luck and we hope you have good news soon!!
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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Good Luck!! Get the Pink!!!!
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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Matt
Reading your post reminded me of waiting for Thi, tho there wasn't any rain!! It did seem like forever!! Thi didn't take as long and was out as the Consulate was going to lunch. Like Houng, Thi had the Pink!!!
Congrats to both of you and Good Luck in your new life together!!Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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The documents required in Packet 3 and 4 have been changing over the last year, you can find previous posts with scanned versions of them but don't follow them blindly. Each case is different, you know yours the best. Make sure to cover all the bases that could be asked at your interview. In our case, we weren't asked for a couple of things in the Packet instructions but forunately, a couple of other posters posted (and one fiancee talked to Thi about her interview) about the "missing" documents that weren't required in the Packets but were asked for at the interview. Because of this we had them ready when they asked.
Ask anyone who recently had thier interview to help you with that questions, documents, etc were needed. As we're all in this together, most everyone is very helpful.
Good luck
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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I know waiting is stressful but there's no way to know how long the Consulate will take. A couple of people here were present for the Interview and were able to get the additional info to the Consulate in a couple of days. The petitioner in one case delivered it directly to the Consulate himself. A couple of days later, they got their visa. Others have had to wait weeks or months before getting approval. Remember, if your case is valid, you'll get your visa, regardless of how long it might take. It will happen!!
The important thing is to be polite but persistant in contacting the Consulate about this. There's nothing wrong in calling them, especially if you're the petitioner. Having your fiancee call them isn't as effective as she's not a US Citizen or Resident. The Consulate has to talk to US, they don't have to talk to your fiance(e).
As to the Consulate looking at or having your original I-129f, in our case, they had it, did refer to things in it in the interview and returned it to us when we got our visa.
Good luck!
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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Jonas
I can understand how this happened. Family tragedies are very emotional and sometimes it's hard to think and make sure you're doing everything right.
There's not much to say that others have already said about what to do. HCMC Consulate is the only hope, and if they understand, they'll do the right thing.
Good luck and you have our prayers.....
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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Sorry to hear about your setback. However, a blue slip doesn't mean you won't get a pink once you submit the necessary evidence. As the others have said, in order to help you, we need more info about your case and what happened.
Good luck
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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Congrats
I agree, making your I-134 as strong as possible, having your wife/fiancee answer in English and being confident makes a huge difference! Your interview reminded me of Thi's interview.
Enjoy your new life together!!
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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Congrats on getting your Visa.
The next step is to get everything you have in Vietnamese translatied into English. If you haven't left Vietnam, get everything translated over there at the place the Consulate recommends. You'll need her birth certificate translated in order to get a SSN. You can get that right away but be aware that you'll have to change it if you get it before you're married and update it once she gets her green card. The SSN you get before getting the green card states you'll need an EAD card for employment, you don't need the EAD once you get the green card. In fact the USCIS officer took Thi's at the interview.
You have to apply for the SSN in person and depending on where you live, the requirements are different. Your County Office of Records will outline what you need to get the marriage license. Los Angeles County doesn't require SSN but does require a photo ID.
Then you can start the AOS, EAD, Advance Parole process once you're married. You'll need to open a joint checking account, saving account as well as show joint bills like health insurance, gas, electric by the time of your AOS interview. The quides cover most of this. We just had our AOS interview and there's a detailed post about it in the AOS forum that may help too.
Good Luck!!
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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How did your wife pick up the visa earlier than they scheduled? Please share cause I may want to do the same thing. Thanks
Thi originally had her date to pick up her visa the same day I was to fly back to the US. I called the Consulate and when I finallly got to talk to a US CO, explained the reason it was important to pick up her visa early so we could fly back together. The female US CO put me on hold for a couple of minutes, when she came back, she told me Thi could pick up her visa the next day! Check our timeline below to see the dates..
So if you want get your visa early, just ask!!! As in my case, they agreed with no problems.
Good Luck
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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That's great news, congrats and enjoy your new life together!!
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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Congrats and enjoy your new life together!!
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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Hi all,
Thi and I went to her AOS interview on May 20th at the Federal Building in Downtown LA.
The interview was short, only a few questions, little paperwork was asked for and she got her approval letter on the spot with the Green Card on it's way in "less than 90 days probably 30-45" according to the officer.
I left a longer post with details in the AOS forum if interested in the details
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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My experience is that China Air won't let you pay for the flight until you have the visa. They will accept a reservation to hold the seat. They required Thi's Passport to have the visa in it before they would book us.
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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Jack and Xuan
Congrats on getting to the US!!! May you both enjoy a long happy life together!!!
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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Hi all,
Thi and I went to her AOS interview on May 20th at the Federal Building in Downtown LA. We parked across the street from it and paid $13.25 in (cash only) for the two 1/2 hours we were there!! I wasn't aware of where else to park and since we had our baby son with us, it was the easiest place to park. However the parking lot isn't baby stroller friendly. Had to carry that up stairs and escalatiors. But we got there at 10:27 for our 10:30 appointment. Of course they were running late...... they were on 9am appointments. So we waited until about 1145 until we were called.
The interview was short, only a few questions, little paperwork was asked for and she got her approval letter on the spot with the Green on it's way in "less than 90 days probably 30-45" according to the officer.
Here's what he asked for: IDs (kept photo copies of both IDs), evidence of joint checking and saving accounts (kept copies) and medical insurance card (don't have joint gas, electric, etc) and birth certificate for our son (I stood in line for an hour the day before getting that!!). We had brought pictures, evidence of our son's birth, our entire K1 visa records, current income records, NOA2, etc all the things the letter asked for and more. But wasn't asked to show!
Here's the questions he asked.
1. How did you meet?
2. When did you meet?
3. Have you meet everyone in her family? When?
4. Have you meet everyone in his family?
5. What is your address where you live (to Thi)?
6. What is your home phone number (to Thi)?
7. What is your cell phone number (to Thi, which she mistakenly heard as Social Security number which she gave to him. That caused a little confusion!!! I explained she doesn't have a cell phone and told her the question was cell phone not SS#. So I gave him my cell phone number)
8. Where do you work (to Thi)?
9. Where do you work (to me)?
10. Have you ever been arrested (to Thi)?
11. Have you ever used drugs (to Thi)?
12. Do you have any other children (to both of us)?
13. Have you ever been married before (to both of us)?
14. Have you ever been to the US before (to Thi)?
15. Do you know the meaning of Conditional status?
Then he told us this looks like a simple straight forward case so you're approved!!! He printed the approval letter, took her EAD (which she never has used!), explained when her Green card should appear and to follow the instructions to lift conditional in 1 year and 9 months.
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20----Approved!!!!
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It's been a more than year since I emailed the HCMC Consulate about our case. At that time I didn't have to supply nor was I asked to supply my SS#. What I did supply was what the Consulate said to include when emailing them. Here's a quote from their site:
"According to our policy, the Consular Section is only permitted to discuss details of a visa case with the petitioner, beneficiary and their legal representative.
If you send an inquiry about an immigrant visa case, you should provide the following information:
- HCM case number or CIS receipt number
- Petitioners’ name and date of birth
- Beneficiary’s name and date of birth
- Mailing address and telephone number
- Your full name
If you send an inquiry about a non-immigrant visa case, you should provide the following information:
- Applicant’s name and date of birth
- Applicant’s passport number
- Mailing address and telephone number
- Your full name "
Unless they've changed their rules and haven't updated their site, you shouldn't have to supply it. If you're Vietnamese American, they may want it to confirm that you're the petitioner, since there are many Vietnamese with the same names. However I would point out their website doesn't ask that you give that info and you have concerns about giving out your SS# over the net in an email. If the Consulate won't email with you without it then you have work that out. I would then call them to confirm your identity and get them to allow you to email them after that.
Good luck!
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20
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Thi and I had a similar problem with our G325a paperwork. We originally put the wrong place of birth for her mother on the G325a that was filed with my I-129f. I contacted the Consulate when I found out about that since the I-129f was approved and sent to HCMC. I sent them emails which are documented here on the forums if you want to search for the details about this.
The bottom line was they didn't care about the mistake. According to the Consulate, the mistake was about her mother, not her, so it's a minor issue and doesn't effect the facts about her or the K1 application. Also since the G325a you fill out at the interview is the one that follows you to the US, they are concerned about that one being correct. Letting them know about it and having documented about that is important just incase someone decides to cause problems about it. We had the correct G325a for the interview and documents to show how the mistake was made, correct documents to show the actual birthplace, etc. However they didn't ask for the supporting documents about the mistake at the interview, Thi forget to ask if they wanted to see the documents. After she got her pink, I asked the Consulate if the wanted the supporting evidence about the mistake, they didn't care to see them as she was approved.
Don't worry about it, contact them to explain the situation and do what they say to do to correct it. Make sure to keep your originals and make copies of everything, just in case.
Good luck!
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20
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The time from pink slip to visa depends on several factors. At times the Consulate is short staffed due to vacations, time off because of holidays, etc. It's suppose to be the next day but rarely is that the case. When Thi got her pink, her date was a week to pick up her visa. However, I had a return flight which meant she would have to fly alone or I would have to spend some money to change my flight. Not wanting to either of those, I called the Consulate. After getting a bit of a run around, there's no one to talk to you now, we'll call you back (which didn't happend.....), got one of the Vietnamese staff to get an American Offical on the phone. A couple of minutes later, I was told Thi could pick up her visa the next day so she could fly back with me. The actual dates are in the timeline below.
So the point is if you have a reason, you can get the Consulate to give you the visa when you need it.
Peter and Thi
I-129F Sent : 2007-05-26
I-129F NOA1 : 2007-06-11
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2007-10-26
Touched: 2007-11-02
NVC Recieved: 2007-11-16
Consulate recieved ??????
Packet 3 sent 2007-12-11
Packet 3 received 2007-12-24
Packet 3 returned 2007-12-28
Packet 4 sent 2008-1-14
Email Reply with Interview Date 2008-1-23
Interview Date 2008-2-27
Passed Interview 2008-02-27
Visa Pick Up Date 2008-3-05
Received Visa 2008-2-29 (called to pick up earlier)
POE 2008-3-05 Los Angeles
Wedding 2008-4-26
Filed AOS 2009-1-2
NOA 1 2009-1-8
Peter Nguyen Brunner born 2009-1-12
Advance Parole recieved 2009-3-27
EAD recieved 2009-3-11
AOS Interview 2009-5-20
Viet TV in the USA
in Vietnam
Posted
Don't know about other areas but since Digital TV, there's more local Vietnamese TV in the LA Ca are. Here's a list of some of the channels you can get for free.
18.7 Vietnamese
44.4 Little Saigon TV
57.2 VIETFACE TV (Paris by Night)
57.4 SET
57.5 SGTV
57.6 VBS TV
Peter and Thi
July 6th Biometrics for 10 year resident card