Tyler and Agus

The adjudicator in Detroit was right... 7 to 10 days to receive the green card. We thought that seemed too good to be true based on other posts AND the Welcome letter itself... so we consider ourselves very lucky! Maybe we'll finally visit Canada this week

YAY! :dance:

Thanks. Well, here's what happened with the vaccination:

First, when my wife had her medical exam (in Argentina) the doctor said that although she had all required vaccines, she should get Hepatitis B (not required in Argentina) and an updated Tetanus. So, the doctor signed/approved her vaccine transcription without the vaccines listed above. That sealed envelope is what was sent to the Embassy and which she gave to an officer at the U.S. Port of Entry.

Second, when submitting the AOS, we attached a supplement that said that they should have already received the medical examination records and she did not get a copy of the vaccine transcription. We didn't get an RFE requesting vaccination records or anything medical-related while waiting for the interview. But, as we suspected that that could happen, we asked Dr. Arnold for an updated transcription so that USCIS could see that she got the Hepatitis B and the updated Tetanus sometime in between her first medical and now being in the U.S. Basically, she got the transcription from Dr. Arnold just to be safe and to prove the vaccines had been updated.

hepatits B? or A? cus as far as what uscis requiring its hepatits A..just asking to be sure..was it really B? also the uscis website said that those who are subjected to get the new list of vaccination are those who had their medical examination on or after aug 1 2008.

geezz,,im confused..uuhhmm when did ur spouse had her medical in their country?

I don't know which vaccine the USCIS definitely wanted to check up on in the interview. It was either in issue with Tetanus or Hep B. Anyway, my wife had each vaccine done just to be safe in the AOS interview. I'm not sure what her exact medical date was... but it was probably sometime between April and May of 2008. Don't let our circumstances confuse you... just make sure you know what vaccinations are required. Since my wife was worried about not having the complete requirements, she went to a local clinic after entering the U.S., got her Hep B continuations, and then sent her vaccine calendar to Dr. Arnold for a cheap transcription. The interviewer looked at this transcription and saw that everything was ok.

By the way, the interviewer asked us why we would travel all the way to Texas for a medical... we explained that we mailed the vaccine record because most places around here charge for the full medical. She was surprised that places won't just do a vaccination transcription and said that that was fine.

Thanks. Well, here's what happened with the vaccination:

First, when my wife had her medical exam (in Argentina) the doctor said that although she had all required vaccines, she should get Hepatitis B (not required in Argentina) and an updated Tetanus. So, the doctor signed/approved her vaccine transcription without the vaccines listed above. That sealed envelope is what was sent to the Embassy and which she gave to an officer at the U.S. Port of Entry.

Second, when submitting the AOS, we attached a supplement that said that they should have already received the medical examination records and she did not get a copy of the vaccine transcription. We didn't get an RFE requesting vaccination records or anything medical-related while waiting for the interview. But, as we suspected that that could happen, we asked Dr. Arnold for an updated transcription so that USCIS could see that she got the Hepatitis B and the updated Tetanus sometime in between her first medical and now being in the U.S. Basically, she got the transcription from Dr. Arnold just to be safe and to prove the vaccines had been updated.

About the EAD... she was going to explain why they take it...but then didn't... so we're still not entirely sure. I'm guessing it has to do with security. My wife asked what to say to a potential employer while she is waiting for the Green Card... she said to just say that the GC has been approved and that will arrive soon.

and to see an updated vaccination record. She had the vaccination and medical information from the embassy but one vaccine was missing from the transcription. Luckily, we planned ahead for this and had a Dr. Arnold transcription just in case.

wow!!! celebration!!!!!

congrats to you two! just a question, when she was asked for an updated vaccination, what did u show to the interviewer? i mean, didnt the transcription of Dr. Arnold is supposed to be sent together with the AOS?

and oh, why did they took your partners ead?

Agus was approved today at our AOS interview in Detroit!!! :dance:

She was told she'll get her GC in the mail in 7-10 days. The interview was fairly quick and definitely easy. First, we were called in 15 minutes late, which was no big deal. Then an oath and the typical questions (any crimes, any blah blah - basically everything listed on the 485). The interviewer did ask for 2008 tax returns and I'm happy we filed early because I was not over 125% in 2007 but was in 2008...so that made things smooth. The interviewer also wanted clarification on a name issue (which I've posted about a while ago) and to see an updated vaccination record. She had the vaccination and medical information from the embassy but one vaccine was missing from the transcription. Luckily, we planned ahead for this and had a Dr. Arnold transcription just in case. Other questions were related to how we met, what we do, etc. etc. and we didn't even have to show pictures... just joint documentation to prove a common address. It probably took around 15 minutes total. I'll post a Detroit review soon....

Well, I'm rambling on... but we're both EXTREMELY happy for this to be over (for 2 years, at least). We couldn't have done it without Visa Journey. Thanks to all of those who provided support - both emotionally and technically.

One last note... ironically, Agus just received a job opportunity, which in Michigan is a blessing right now. Unfortunately, the adjudicator kept the EAD card and AP forms. Protocol- I know. But if that costs her a job...... . Hopefully the employer is happy with a SS# and the guarantee a permanent resident card is on the way (hopefully within the stated 7-10 days!)

YAYYY!

congratulations hope our card in the mail soon.....i did the interveiw in detroit too, but IO told me will received my card in 2 to 3 wks gd luck

Thanks... I was thinking that 7 to 10 days seemed too good to be true... we're still hoping though . We hope you get yours soon!!!

Agus was approved today at our AOS interview in Detroit!!! :dance:

She was told she'll get her GC in the mail in 7-10 days. The interview was fairly quick and definitely easy. First, we were called in 15 minutes late, which was no big deal. Then an oath and the typical questions (any crimes, any blah blah - basically everything listed on the 485). The interviewer did ask for 2008 tax returns and I'm happy we filed early because I was not over 125% in 2007 but was in 2008...so that made things smooth. The interviewer also wanted clarification on a name issue (which I've posted about a while ago) and to see an updated vaccination record. She had the vaccination and medical information from the embassy but one vaccine was missing from the transcription. Luckily, we planned ahead for this and had a Dr. Arnold transcription just in case. Other questions were related to how we met, what we do, etc. etc. and we didn't even have to show pictures... just joint documentation to prove a common address. It probably took around 15 minutes total. I'll post a Detroit review soon....

Well, I'm rambling on... but we're both EXTREMELY happy for this to be over (for 2 years, at least). We couldn't have done it without Visa Journey. Thanks to all of those who provided support - both emotionally and technically.

One last note... ironically, Agus just received a job opportunity, which in Michigan is a blessing right now. Unfortunately, the adjudicator kept the EAD card and AP forms. Protocol- I know. But if that costs her a job...... . Hopefully the employer is happy with a SS# and the guarantee a permanent resident card is on the way (hopefully within the stated 7-10 days!)

YAYYY!

Well, it's been a while since this post was started... but it's time for an update. (Refer to the original post for details.)

After stressing out about this and weighing our options, my wife sent a letter to the application support center regarding our situation, as this was the only way to get in touch with the ASC (they don't publish their phone number). The officer immediately replied to our letter with a phone call saying that they could help us. The officer at the ASC gave us some options as to what we could do. Since the officer told us they had a contact at USCIS that could resolve this issue quickly, we went with their recommendation.

The officer recommended that we send the EAD card and AP back to the ASC where they could then send it in secure mail to the USCIS. So we sent the EAD card and AP with a cover letter explaining why we are sending it and that we would like a letter (from the ASC officer) returned to us explaining what and why we were doing this (as evidence!). After waiting 2 weeks, my wife received her AP and EAD card with the names she wanted (based on the recommendation of the officer at the ASC).

It's been weird... but we're happy everything turned out just fine. My wife now has her EAD card and AP and our AOS interview is scheduled for Feb. 24. Overall, I was a bit surprised that the officer at the ASC could (and would) help us. But we would have never known that unless we sent the letter. I suppose this scenario is not common in the process of AOS and I would venture to say that not everyone could have such luck.

I guess the lesson here is that every case is different and good things do happen in the world of the AOS process.

You should NOT have let some USCIS-helper at the biometrics place talk you into doing anything differently. Yes, they have created a world opf problems for you that will undoubtedly cost you time, if not money as well.

Yes, regrettably, that is probably true. But they were not the person doing fingerprints or taking pictures, they are in charge of that office and have worked within USCIS for decades. Of course, who knows what kind of authority they actually have...

I can't follow your explanation. Did the cards come in the name your paperwork requested or the passport name?

Regardless, you can get the green card issued in the name you want by telling them at the interview. Of course, unless you plan to change the name in the passport as well, this is all a very bad idea.

The cards came as the name on the form but with the new signature, as advised at the biometrics appt.

And, that's assuming we get the interview...which now feels weird to wish for.

Have you done the biometrics for the green card yet or just for the EAD?

AP and EAD are pretty temporary and will probably cause no issues.

I just checked. If the only problem is the signature, Green Cards don't have signatures.

I thought there was only 1 biometrics appointment (my wife came with a K-1 Visa).

It was at the biometrics appointment that the person in charge suggested that my wife use the first and middle name - exactly as in her passport when filing for AOS (of course taking my last name). This person said we could make that change there (at the application support center) in order to avoid potential problems when traveling, or, even at the interview. The person supposedly sent an email to the NBC to make this change. Alas, the AP and EAD did not come with the updated (suggested) changes from the biometrics office.

Of course, our biggest concern is traveling in the future and my wife having problems when entering the U.S. due to first/middle name confusions due to a discrepancy between passport first/middle name and Green Card first/middle name (or AP if we use it).

CONGRATS!!!!! :dance:

Take both copies. They will keep one and stamp the other and return it to you.

and i do that on the way back right?...i don't have to do anything on my way TO Canada, just go through CANADA BP...i don't have to Check in with AMERICAN BP before I enter into Canada?

AND

if they take one that only leaves me with one...how does that work when i go for another visit?...it can be used for multiple visits...or so it says...

thank you so much for you help...

I read somewhere on VJ to make some copies of your AP documents to keep for yourself. My wife and I haven't traveled since receiving it, but I read that somewhere and thought it's a good bit of advice... Good luck!

You should NOT have let some USCIS-helper at the biometrics place talk you into doing anything differently. Yes, they have created a world opf problems for you that will undoubtedly cost you time, if not money as well.

Yes, regrettably, that is probably true. But they were not the person doing fingerprints or taking pictures, they are in charge of that office and have worked within USCIS for decades. Of course, who knows what kind of authority they actually have...

I can't follow your explanation. Did the cards come in the name your paperwork requested or the passport name?

Regardless, you can get the green card issued in the name you want by telling them at the interview. Of course, unless you plan to change the name in the passport as well, this is all a very bad idea.

The cards came as the name on the form but with the new signature, as advised at the biometrics appt.

And, that's assuming we get the interview...which now feels weird to wish for.

You should NOT have let some USCIS-helper at the biometrics place talk you into doing anything differently. Yes, they have created a world opf problems for you that will undoubtedly cost you time, if not money as well.

Yes, regrettably, that is probably true. But they were not the person doing fingerprints or taking pictures, they are in charge of that office and have worked within USCIS for decades. Of course, who knows what kind of authority they actually have...

Congratulations and thanks for sharing your experience!!!!

Okay, I'm going to try to be as clear as possible describing what happened here. I posted about this issue earlier, but now I have the chance to elaborate and provide some more details... sorry it's so long

After marriage, (K-1 Visa holder) my wife wanted to drop her first name and apply her middle name as her first name. She then wanted to use her maiden name as her middle name and take my last name. She filed all 3 AOS documents using this name combination (Advanced Parole, EAD, and Adjustment of Status).

At the biometrics appointment, the worker in charge there warned that this may cause confusion at an airport, for example, because the name will not exactly match her passport. We have read that many VJers have done something similar with re-arranging their names so we didn't expect any problems. Anyway, at the biometrics appointment, the worker in charge warned us that this name combination could cause us problems down the road (airports, AOS interview). Therefore, she explained to us that she could send an email (we don't know where exactly she sent it) to some USCIS office explaining that my wife was going to use her original given first and middle name (dropping her maiden name, and taking my last name). Next, the remainder of the biometrics paperwork were performed with her original name, which was emailed to USCIS.

Since then, AP and EAD Card has arrived without those changes explained in the email. Upon calling the National 1-800 Customer Line, she was first told to resubmit the AP paperwork (I-131) without a fee and a letter explaining the circumstances. Today, after receiving the EAD card with the un-updated name, she called back and they said that if they made the mistake, we can send the card back and provide the correct information without a fee. But, if we made the mistake, then we would have to pay the full amount to get the EAD card with the name that we want. Well where is the mistake? Apparently, everything was fine with the way we used her name... no RFEs or problems. We also have provided previous names used. If there is a mistake at all, it is stemming from the change made at the biometrics appointment. Of course, it's impossible to prove anything regarding the worker at the biometrics office because there is no phone number and they only see appointments!!!

Today, we should be very happy to have both of these documents. Instead, we're more worried than ever. We don't know if we'll have to pay again. We don't know if the names she originally used on the form are now okay or not because she is worried about having problems when we travel internationally. And we don't know if the change can be made at the interview for the Green Card.

I was thinking an InfoPass might help... but they might say we need to resubmit with a fee and the names we want.

I can't help but wonder now if that worker at the biometrics appointment helped us avoid problems or created a world of problems for us....

Does anyone have any similar experiences, advice, or input on how we could handle this problem? Thank you so much. Overall, I'm skeptical of the information we can gain from the USCIS 1800 # and an InfoPass seems logical...but I don't know.

Just an update... we've received the AP paperwork (I-512L) today and found out online that EAD card was ordered!

Oops...meant to put this in the September filers post...

First, a bit of background:

After marriage, my wife wanted to change her name so that she assumed my last name, made her middle name her first name, and made her surname her middle name (altogether, she dropped her given first name because she does not use it. This is the name she used on all the submitted documents for AOS.

Well, upon going to the biometrics appointment, the worker in charge there suggested that she did not do this because it does not constitute a legal name change. To legally change your name, it must be done in the court. So, the worker recommended that my wife use her full given name (minus her original last name) to avoid confusion on her passport and other documents. This ensures that all documents will match. She strongly recommended that she do this. She agreed. The worker then sent an e-mail to USCIS (I don't know exactly where she sent it) notifying them of the change made.

Herein lies the dilemma: My wife just received her AP with the name that she used to apply for AOS. Therefore, this means that the requested change did not take effect. Secondly, her EAD card production order was processed.

We are worried now that there will be mass confusion upon updating her SSN, getting a driver's license, and traveling internationally due to this name issue.

I have read here that many other VJ's decided to do something similar with their names: something like using their given last name as a middle name when assuming their husband's last name. We thought we would do something similar but this worker at the biometrics appointment said this was a bad idea and now we're confused and worried about what could happen with name discrepancies on documents.

Has anyone experienced a similar situation or have any advice on who or how to contact someone to fix this?

We're planning to send the whole package August 30. Am i still an august filer? I have a problem coz the I-765 form will be expiring august 31,08.. what form should I use then? any help? thanks!!

Vida Taylor

I'm not entirely sure, but I would think that if the date (that you write) on the form is prior to the 31st and if it's postmarked before that date, then you will be fine.

AOS packet sent yesterday, Aug. 22, 2008... the waiting game begins. Good luck to all fellow Aug. filers (and others, of course!)

I do not plan on submitting tax information from 2005 and 2006 because I had such a low income (full-time student status).

Oh, sorry, I think I misread this. I thought you meant that you did not have tax returns from 2005 and 2006 because your income was so low that you were not required to file. Yeah, if you have them, send them. If you did not file, just point that out as ELW suggested.

Why? I had three years available and only sent one year.... I think the form says that one year is needed but you can provide more if you think it will help establish you financial ability. In the OP's case it will not.

I did file returns for 2005 and 2006 but in each case income was below $5,000. The thing is, we're in a hurry to submit all paperwork and waiting for transcripts will delay that process. Actually, I've already ordered transcripts once and they never arrived. I know calling the IRS again will be a hassle. That's why I'm wondering if I can avoid it. I can send copies of W-2s. I'm also sending the last three years for my joint sponsor.

So the AOS process is officially underway...

I was wondering... based on what I've read, it seems that everyone has submitted proof of income for the last 3 years. The I-864 says that this is optional. I do not plan on submitting tax information from 2005 and 2006 because I had such a low income (full-time student status). I will include a full tax return for 2007, which was barely under the poverty line, along with the last 3 years of tax information from my joint sponsor.

Is this sufficient? Anyone else do this? Is it ok? Thanks.

Hi all,

My wife (beneficiary) and I are now officially married. We're wondering if anyone else has experience regarding a name change.

My wife's given name is Maria Agustina Pastor. She does not use Maria and goes by Agustina. When she goes to change her name at the Social Security Admin., she is thinking of changing it to Agustina Pastor Borowy. I haven't read anything regarding this type of change. The way it seems to me, this is okay as long as she declares previously used names on AOS forms. Is this okay? Will we run into any problems with this?

Thanks!

I'm about to leave to get Agus from the Detroit Metro Airport!!!!!!!!!!!!! We thought this day would never come! How delighted we both are!!!!!! :dance:

Well, this notice is a bit tardy since more than 24 hours have passed since Agustina's interview... but alas, everything went very smoothly!!!!!

SHE GOT THE VISA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :dance:

Agus will be receiving her passport with the stamp shortly. She expects to fly to the U.S. in about 1 month. Once she is here we will write out the details of her interview as well as her POE experience (following spending precious time together of course )

Thanks to everyone out there for the advice and best wishes. To all of those who are waiting or starting this process, don't lose hope. This is only a test and is bound to make you stronger!

YAY!!!!!!!

Agustina has her interview today in Buenos Aires! Wish her luck! (And me too...it may be possible I'm more nervous than she is )

Thanks to VJ and VJers for the guides, advice, tips, and everything! This is a great community!

I'll let everyone know how it went a bit later... until then, my fingers are crossed!

Ahh yes, the elusive morel mushroom. I'll be in Northern Michigan looking for these tasty delights in a week.

Black Morels are more prevalent in older poplar stands as well as mature hardwood forests, particularly hilly terrain. They can grow in odd places, like out of moss on a tree bark or on the side of a dirt road. White Morels are often found under apple trees and along old fence rows in fields. Of course, sometimes you just find them in the oddest places and that is what makes looking for them so fun.

Along with using a mesh bag, you can also be selective about the morels you pick. Leaving the smaller ones, half-eaten ones, or slightly deformed ones can help new ones grow in the area. They grow very quickly...especially after rain and a warm sunny day. Also, don't pull the entire mushroom out of the ground...snap it off just above its roots.

Actually, morel mushrooms can be cultivated. Check out what Michigan State University has done in Michigan: Biotech brings mushroom indoors

Everyone enjoy their morels this spring...and stay out of Northern Michigan hardwood forests next weekend

I'd be interested in hearing how people are coping with the gas prices. What are you doing to cut down?

Living in a Michigan city that was designed for the automobile can make it difficult to drive less. When I do drive, I'm glad I have a very fuel efficient 5 speed car. I live about 3 miles from work so I can bike there. Most stores are less than 3 miles away so I can also bike there and pack groceries and goods into a backpack. Basically, I bike and walk a lot more and use the bus when it's raining or too cold. There have been some times I've gone weeks without using my car and my health has improved because of it and I save a ton of money. I'm already keeping my eye out for a bike for my fiance. Of course...living downtown makes all of this possible... for rural households, I can't imagine the costs....

That is awesome! The first few states can be a bit tricky though....

92%, 12 miles