greg584

It took a little more digging but I found it. They issue the Medical in packet 4. They schedule the interview in packet 4, and only then does the doc see the patient. Seems slightly out of sync to me, but it's almost over so more bending and less frustrating I guess.

Hi everyone,

My honey went to embassy in HK to pick up her packet 3 and I am worried something is missing. Just a little background first. She is from the Philippines, but she has worked in Bahrain from 01-03 and 04-06, and presently in HK from 08 until now.

The packet IS NOT asking for a GCC from Bahrain, which we had already requested 3 months ago, and due to the unrest there we advised a wait time of up to 18 weeks!

Also the packet DOES NOT ask for a medical from HK. She did need to get one when she first arrived in HK to work. Now I can maybe understand no request for GCC due to the unrest in Bahrain, but I am not too sure about the medical. I would not think that the US embassy would have access to her medical, or if HK would even allow this to be shared with the US. Besides, the medical would be 3 years old, which I would think is beyond an acceptable time range for her visa app.

After waiting this long for this process I am trying to avoid any further delays. As it is, the embassy originally mailed the packet over 2 weeks ago, and they sent it to the wrong address. The address had “block 2” typed on all our forms, but they sent it to “block c”. This was after first claiming that is was mailed on 25 May, and when we did not receive it they replied in a follow up email that they did not even have the forms from the NVC! Which was the first error on their part.

I know I can contact the embassy and ask about the forms, but I guess the real question is, and is ALWAYS stated here, just follow the directions and give them what they ask for. We are too close to completion on this now, and to avoid any delays is always a good thing.

Anything similar happen to anyone out there, or suggestions? Thanks.

Greg

Such a surprise, I received a letter from the NVC today, dated 5/10. Just a letter to let me know that within a week they will be forwarding my stuff to HK. This was a surprise because when I called the NVC requesting their file number on my case I specifically asked the person does the NVC notify of any progress. He told me no, but that when it arrives in HK they will send an email. So now I am sending an email to NVC asking for tracking info...if they still provide it. It is SO nice to see things move rapidly once Vermont lets things go.

Good luck everyone.

They did reply quickly, but they might have just as well have not even answered it. All I asked for was the date the package was forwarded, and a tracking number if available. I wonder if they even read the emails they receive. Here is the answer...

Dear Sir/Madam:

Your inquiry has been received at the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC has completed its processing of the visa petition you mentioned in your letter and has recently been forwarded to the US Embassy/Consulate General. Please allow 10-15 business days for the Embassy/Consulate General to receive the petition.

Any further inquiries should be directed to the assigned US Embassy or Consulate General.

This whole process is just SO frustrating to everyone here. I got a little pi$$ed at their answer so I sent off another request...

Thanks for getting back to me. Let me try this again though...

Recently forwarded? You do not know the date?

How was it forwarded? FEDEX, DHL, USPS, carrier pigeon?

Is there a tracking number?

Please just a little more info would be nice. Place yourself in my shoes please, wouldn't you want to know these details?

Thanks, Greg

Sad thing is, I can already picture their response...

Recently forwarded? You do not know the date?....yes we do know the date

How was it forwarded? FEDEX, DHL, USPS, carrier pigeon?.....courier

Is there a tracking number?....yes

Sorry, I just needed to vent here. Same as everyone else here I am just frustrated. Especially in only asking 3 (what I consider) simple questions. I know, at least it was forwarded, but geeze. I never called anyone about this, this was the first time I asked for information. Just wanted to get my monies worth. As of yet I do not wish to bother the US Embassy or Consulate General, for some reason I would not think they have access to the info, but they might. Right now I'll just wait for the next reply if they even send one. I guess I could always call, but based upon the next response I think I will be sending a copy of this to Hilary for starters. Maybe, it will make it better for those who follow.

Okay, off the soapbox.

Good luck to all.

Such a surprise, I received a letter from the NVC today, dated 5/10. Just a letter to let me know that within a week they will be forwarding my stuff to HK. This was a surprise because when I called the NVC requesting their file number on my case I specifically asked the person does the NVC notify of any progress. He told me no, but that when it arrives in HK they will send an email. So now I am sending an email to NVC asking for tracking info...if they still provide it. It is SO nice to see things move rapidly once Vermont lets things go.

Good luck everyone.

It was pretty interesting. I do not check CIS (Vermont)for updates very often, perhaps once or twice a month at most. I found it way too frustrating to never see any changes. One touch a few weeks after delivery and that was it. So I was totally surprised after checking on the 18th and seeing NO update, to then wake on the 19th and see an email with our approval. Just under the 5 month threshold. Hopefully they are pushing to meet commitment times for everyone out there; my hopes are with you all. I know this waiting really SUC@S.

Hi Jay-Kay,

I am just wondering, did you see where they requested the USC to be present because the parties involved were already married?

Hi Kathy,

I understand you might have a financial situation, but if you could fly directly into Ciudad Juarez International it is only about 5 miles to the hotel. You also eliminate the potential for being stuck in line at the border.

Okay, that being said I do not know if you have looked into El Paso’s airport website at http://www.elpasointernationalairport.com/2009/index.html yet. If you go to the service tab they have a ground transportation link. As this is a small airport I would suggest you make all your arrangements ahead of time. I do not recall seeing any kiosk there for local transportation, but if there is one, it will probably be directly across from the baggage claim area. Depending upon your time of arrival many of the kiosks that are there do close in the evening. The last flights coming in usually arrive before midnight.

Most of the local taxi companies charge $60-100 to go to Juarez, but due to recent events those prices might have changed. Maybe the hotel might also have some suggestions for you getting to their hotel. I would suggest this as it might be easier to get to the hotel then back to the airport for your return trip.

Good luck

Greg

hello everyone!!!!!!!!

Do you all know if any of the folks from Feb. who have not yet received their NOA2's have not even been touched yet?

Anyone still waiting for even a touch?

ME!

Me either...I kinda thought if I had though...maybe that would have led me to the right page! lolol. Anyway, thanks for the correct link. I am relieved that I don't have to assembly everything I thought I would in the first place! Whew!

-Blu-(*hic*)

I am glad I finally got it right, sorry about the screw up, must have been a having a senor senior moment. The only thing I forgot to mention is that some embassy's do require slightly different information. You might want to check with yours just to be certain. From your time line you are very close to interview time, good luck to you.

Greg

If you want take a look at this page: http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.ph...p;#entry3104745 it has the basics of the I-134. There are many pages of Q&A, I think after you read this you will know that you are safe. The only thing that is mentioned most often is about the bank statement and employment info.

Um...this link brought me right back to your post with this link on it. LOLOL

-Blu-

Wow and I am not even drinking...yet. Sorry about that here is the correct link: http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=305

I am off to find some ice cubes

Greg

Hi again,

When you said this: My pay well qualifies for the 125% above the poverty line actually, but the form asks for my mortgage, bank and retirement funds info too. So, I didn't think I could leave it blank.

I am going to assume you are talking about the I-134 well actually you are all set! If you are above the poverty threshold you need not worry about anything else. I was also surprised as I read about the I-134 here. It actually is one of the few forms where you can leave something blank. However there is also a comfort level we all need in our hearts, so if you want you can always provide the extra information.

If you want take a look at this page: http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.ph...p;#entry3104745 it has the basics of the I-134. There are many pages of Q&A, I think after you read this you will know that you are safe. The only thing that is mentioned most often is about the bank statement and employment info.

What I did was take the information from here: http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-134.pdf under section “II supporting evidence” to my bank and they provided the information in section A.

I really think because of your income being over the 125% that you can relax, however do not take my word for this. When you have some time take a look at that first link, that should cover the details enough so that you are comfortable, well as comfortable as you can be dealing with all this nonsense.

Now you can sit back, have a glass of wine, or something totally potent and breathe easy.

Greg

Hi wyld blu

In regard to the tax return, when I ordered my transcripts from the IRS I did not even consider the joint filing. One of my 3 years is a joint return from 3 years ago, and I plan on using that. I am fairly certain that the w2 will not suffice, as they specifically say tax returns are to be used.

If your ex is going to buy you out of your house, if it is not a complete buy out, in other words that there is NO money owed to a lender, when you go to refinance the bank will have an appraisal done. You will be able to use that at the time. To show value, in addition to the refi papers, which will show the value and that the house is now in your name. I do not think a website estimate is acceptable, however if you really think you need this you could always contact an appraiser, if he will not be buying you out by the time your interview is scheduled. Also, if you present the information pertaining to the current joint ownership of your house at the interview, it might be a potential red flag.

With the 401k’s, first question is do you have a 401k or IRA? If not you can contact a financial institution of you choosing and ask them about opening one. Many will allow you to fill out the forms and direct transfer the money from him to you without any fees or penalties, based upon your divorce agreement. Next question is are his 401k’s all with a company with which he is currently employed, and do they allow rollovers without any fees? In most cases rollovers can be accomplished without generating a taxable event. I would suggest contacting a financial institution and asking them about the procedures, they will probably want to see the final divorce decree so be prepared.

You might be pressed for time though. I would think your interview date will arrive before these issues can be address and concluded.

I assume you are doing this because you do not qualify for the 125% over the poverty line, because if you do qualify then the only thing you need here would be the tax returns.

I do not know if any of this helped, but it was worth a shot…good luck

Greg

Morning Lee...

Greg - thank you for the link!!

YW, nothing better to do here while I wait....................and wait....................and......................

Thanks Roman! It still hasn't completely sunk in yet I think! hehehe!

Maire - Is the letter you get from NVC one you have to send to your SO for the interview?

I'm trying to gather the last of the documents for the I-134 and our evidence......I sure wish they had a step by step checklist on here..hehe! I'm worried I'll forget something!

Hi Liz, I was not certain if you were serious about this or not but here is a link to a pdf checklist for China. I would think yours would be similar.

[url="http://guangzhou.usembassy-china.org.cn/uploads/images/Z93Oga7Kk-2OzbQXCko1gA/Form_169-May.09.pdf they call this a 169 but if you wish to try a search I also think it is referred to as an IV-15...good luck.

Greg

Congrats to everyone

I've been looking into flights as I am expecting to receive my approval any day now, Maire and I have the same dates so hopefully mine is right behind hers, (by-the-way Maire YOU WIN!). I am trying to figure out how to fly to prague stay in a hotel for a week or 2 and fly back with my BH for the best cost. All the cheap ticket sites don't offer one way tickets departing from another country. When I did an international search for the one way ticket it was about half of the round trip price, in euros. But the website was in german and I could ready anything other than that.

Any ideas as to how I can fly to her for the interview then fly back with her?

I was actually going to order a RT ticket, even though I knew I was not going to make the return date. For me RT plus the fees to change the dates was so much cheaper than a one way ticket. I have found the one ways to China are 85% of a RT. So even after the fees I am still ahead. Then use the extra fees and book a return for me and one way for my honey. However YMMV.

My fiance (Lampros, haven't mentioned his name yet) ..anyways, Lampros was approved by his commander for the days off in July!!! So now all we have to do is buy the tickets and gooo! I'm so so glad, only a month then I get to see him!

Roman + Vespa, I haven't called the VSC but I will very soon.

Roman, I can't believe it's already sent to the foreign consulate! Good news! That's a bit scary for me though, as we are trying to delay these processes a bit till he is definitely able to come in 6 months for entry.

Richard- I can't believe that poor 11 girl will be deported, it's tragic!

Hi everyone else!!

Actually just called NVC, it was sent yesterday! But, to call Naples to check it's $15 per call from outside the US, and 1.50 Euro/minute for inside! CRAZY!

Vespa, I just did a quick search. There are Voip's that charge .03 per minute to Italy. Also with Voip you can obtain a local number in Italy. So if you need to call again you might want to consider something like that. FWIW.

Greg

JUST GOT HOME AND THERE WAS A NICE LETTER IN MY MAILBOX!!!!

NOA-2 dated 6/4 received today 6/10.

[Note for others that have received it...it says "petition has been approved and forwarded to the listed consulate"...but no consulate is listed...anyone else have this oddity? I mean, I know it will have to be Naples, but found it odd...]

Congrats vespa.... are they now by-passing NVC, or is this included now during this waiting period?

I am over the poverty line and the embassy in Moscow requires the bank letter, pay stubs and the last years tax records. At least thats the way I understand it.

How did you find out EXACTLY what they require? Am curious bc I haven't found an official listing for Naples...

Vespa, I am on the Naples website and don't see the K1... do they issue them there?

Here is the link for Italy, and the visa specific page.

http://italy.usembassy.gov/visa/vis/default-en.asp

Greg

Sorry 'bout the double post, I should have read further.

can anyone tell me what is gonna be asked in packet 3 , i can t seem to find it anywhere

like specially for the aiffidit thingy, what is required as far as taxes form and stuff

thanks

Hi Minimule, this might give you a general idea. This is the consulate I will use. You can always try searching your consulate also.

http://guangzhou.usembassy-china.org.cn/vi...ket_forms2.html

Greg

Impressive....81 pages to our 22 pages for Jan. filers....

Igor #160 on May 16, 2009.

And one less unapproved petition for Jan. Yayyyyyyyy

On May 11th, I called CIS. Managed to get a person at the call center to re-affirm my online status as pending and under review with no updates.

Came home today to find an envelope dated 5-13-09. I almost stopped breathing.....NOA2 issued May 8th. 107 days.

Keep the faith. And believe in the Postal system to bring you the good news.

Good luck to everyone going through this process.

Congrats and best wishes. You can start breathing again while the rest of us still hold our breath!!!

Greg

Hi Feb VSC guys, sorry I have not been very vocal on the thread but have just had amazing news that Julie and I have been approved!!! We are so excited. After the last few weeks of nothing happening we were getting pretty frustrated so this is such a blessing. We got our NOA 1 on the 2nd of Feb so 3 and a half months is amazing. I wish all the other Feb VSC filers the best of luck. Cheers, Chris x x

Sweet! Best of continued luck to you both.

i just read the HB-1 season update. There are about 45000 applications that came in for the 2010 season. The cap is 65000. I would assume that there are reps that take care of certain types of visas. Otherwise I think all the other types will have a lag in processing. Only time will tell, and right now time is the enemy!

I do not disagree with anything you, or Dave and Jenny or D n M has said. I know I will get flamed for this, and do not misunderstand I am as anxious as anyone else here to have the incredibly slow process move forward. I just think we have put too much faith into Igor’s list, which is only an estimate, and because of the fluctuations, such as the HB-1, constantly changes. I do not even look at it any longer. I am not sticking up for the sluggish work at the VSC, I think it is pathetic, but their date for our process is 6 months, which sadly at this time almost seems more accurate than Igor’s list….please I want to be proven wrong so much, I want Igor’s list to be the more accurate of the two. Sadly I do not think that is the case.

Greg

Hello everyone!!

We received p.#3 and really stuck with some requirements.

1. The letter from consulate said we have to have police report from any country were you had to live more than 6 month.

2. Military record needs to be attached. 3. Form I-864 supposed to be sent and notarized.

We have problem in time frame to get police report 1-2 month, military record not on a list for request from Uzbekistan Consulate in Israel.

3. Why did they request I-864 instead I-134?

On a letter also note: Police certificates from certain countries are considered unobtainable. The consular office will advise you about any particular country.

If anyone can help to know about this list of countries (by phone we tried-answering system works, no one replied)

How do we have to respond with military record, and if we have to fill out form I-864 or I-134?

Help please!!!!!

Hi Natzhea, it is funny you mention the I-864 today. I was just reading about this today and I am as confused as you are. I was under the impression that the I-864 was used by a sponsor (not the petitioner) to demonstrate evidence of support. Then I looked here: http://guangzhou.usembassy-china.org.cn/up...2._OF-169.pdf... this is the Embassy I am going to deal with. On page 2 the “evidence of support” I was confused by the wording. So I was planning on taking the easy way out and filling out both forms, taking them both to one of the citizens meetings at the embassy and asking which I actually need. I look at it this way, it is only one more form to fill out, and basically requires the same information. Except I do not know which box is the correct box to check in section 1, such a great way to begin. Perhaps they save this until you file for AOS, who knows. You know if you do not give them what they ask for they will bounce you.

Sorry I know I did not help you, I am kind of venting confusion here. Anyone want to help here?

Greg

Well, barring some people updating their timelines and adding NOA2's for the past week, I can tell you from walking back over the past year that NO time during the past *year* has there been so many days without a NOA2. Not Christmas week, July 4, memorial day, labor day, new years. The longest I saw (I looked) was i think 4 days without. This is driving me absolutely nuts!

Welcome to H-1B season, where becoming a non-immigrant worker only takes 2 months. http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/men...0004718190aRCRD

I see a person here and there getting NOA2, though.

Hang in there...

So it seems like they keep accepting H-1B apps. until they reach a cap, but I wonder how long that is and when "H-1B season" ends....

I wonder what the market is like for those applicants nowadays?

Medical Passed

One more hurdle in 2 weeks, wish us luck!

WTG!

man, the light at the end of that tunnel must be huge by now! I wonder what it looks like?

Greg