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| London, United Kingdom |  Review on July 16, 2015: |
johnhol
Rating:  | Review Topic: IR-1/CR-1 Visa
Thought it about time to write about my experience of the interview at the US London Embassy.
I'd been worried about this part for weeks, and the night before didn't sleep well at all. Especially after finding out I need a POA notarizing the same day somehow.
I got in to London ridiculously early as I decided to get an early train as it was set to the hottest day of the year - and didn't fancy the tube in 100 degree heat.
I met with the attorney notarizing my document about 10am and after that wandered round the surrounding streets and cafes until the interview.
I had been outside from about 11.30, though as many have stated, you are turned away and told to go back at 12.30. A few people had gathered about 12 noon and before I realised, a queue had formed of about 3-4 people. As it was so early I thought I'd hold back and join about 12.15 - my mistake. I jumped in about 12.20 and by that time the queue was 10 long - one group had 5 people in it - all seeking visas.
We were sent through the security check at 12.30 - and we were nearly all inside by 12.45.
I had number 13 - unlucky for some.
The embassy seemed to only have 1-2 windows open to start with so progress was slow. I eventually got called up to window 2 to hand over docs (only wanted my original certs) - after chatting the slightly feisty Asian lady (she's actually quite funny) and being told I had too much evidence and only needed a third of it, I was asked to take a sit again.
Now the second part is the time consuming piece. The people in front of me obviously had more complicated cases as they took forever. There was one gent escorted from the building as he was obviously denied and kicked off - which caused no movement for 45 minutes.
I was there for 2.5 hours before being called up to the final window - the actual interview.
After the very pleasant american officer checked the docs and asked me 3 questions. Where did you meet, where did you get married (to which he said "oh yes, I saw that" after I told him, and finally a medical question.
Then he lost his pen, so walked off to get one, but returned with a stamp, then had to find a pen, then silence for probably only 30 seconds though felt like an hour - looked at me and said, "well John, I'm happy to say you're all approved. You passport will be sent back within a week, have a nice day".
So other than the mind blowing boredom of waiting, the actual interviews are a breeze - if you're straight and have the documents you need.
I had actually forgotten the courier receipt but the first lady said she'd print it for me - after glaring at me for a couple of seconds...
Tips:
Take snacks, a drink and something to do. My battery charge was very low so had to sparingly keep myself entertained.
Also loiter outside from 12.10 - even if they say come back. don't go to far and get ready to jump in that queue.
Double check you have interview letter, original certs, marriage, police, birth, divorce (if app) - plus courier receipt. Also have the AOS and other forms just in case. Even though she didn't ask for mine, some people she might. If you need to print a replacement, don't panic like i did. The chemist up the road does internet and printing (even if it is daylight robbery)
After 14 months, this was the easiest, quickest part - so truly nothing to worry or stress about - just get your pack together and review before you set off.
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Consulate / USCIS Member Review #17342