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| Manila, Philippines |  Review on November 15, 2012: |
matteo66062
Rating:  | Review Topic: IR-1/CR-1 Visa
We got the CR-1 Visa approved! Total time from filing I-130 to approval, 2 months and 15 days!!! I was shocked at how simple it was at the US Embassy, Manila. We arrived at 330am for the 630am appointment. We arrived so early as we drove my motorcycle from Tanay, Rizal, all the way to Manila and wanted an extra cushion of time in case we had a flat or engine trouble. Already there was a large crowd. The lines were grouped by appointment times and visa categories outside the property at the base of the foot bridge. Once we got inside the embassy at 630, we waited 45 mins for Rona, my wife, to get fingerprinted at window 43. Total time at window 43, 3 minutes. Then we waited about an hour to go to the first window, a Filipina pre-screener at window 53. She was very nice and I spoke Tagalog to her which was helpful also. My wife was very nervous so I helped get the documents out and handed them to the very pleasnat lady. The only documents she asked for were NSO Original BC, NSO Original Marriage and the 864 Affidavit of Support. We had 200 pics which she just glanced at the first couple and said thank you and returned them. She asked how we met, how long I have been in the Philippines, how did i know Tagalog and that was it. She told us to pay the 230 USD IV fee and have a seat as the final interview with the US Consular would be next. Total time at window 53, less than 2 minutes. So another 45 mins passed and we were called to window 59. The consular was very polite and friendly. After giving my wife the oath, he asked what day we were mrried and asked also where she would be living in the USA. He then turned and smiled to me and said this is your home residence? Of course I said yes. THAT WAS IT! Tapos na!!! He then said everything looks good so I will go ahead and approve your visa. We had every document under the sun but nothing else was asked for. Total time at window 59, 2 minutes. After that he said have a seat and you will be called to one more window to verify your delivery of the visa. About 30 mins passed and we were called to window 72. That took a whole 30 seconds. The visa will be sent to the address that you provided when you made the appointment at no charge within a few days. We left the embassy at 1030am with our original appt time of 630am.
Being as I am a missionary and currently live in the Phil,I was able to accompany my wife to the Embassy. I was at every window with her which was comforting for her. I saw a total of 3 other fellow Americans with their significant other, but all were applying K1. They had just flown over for the interview. If you can,and I know for some it is impossible, but really try to be at the Embassy with your loved one! It IS allowed in Manila and helpful! All the other 3 couples who were with their loved ones were approved as well, and had a similar simple experience!
This site helped me be prepared and have everything I needed. I would definitely say without VJ, my wife and I would not have been as prepared! Thanks so much to all who personally gave us advice and I hope I can do the same for others!
(updated on November 15, 2012)
(updated on November 15, 2012)
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Consulate / USCIS Member Review #10890