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| Tokyo, Japan |  Review on September 28, 2009: |
Bryan in Tokyo
Rating:  | Review Topic: IR-1/CR-1 Visa
We had a 2pm apppointment for I130 application (1st step), arrived 145pm with about 25 people ahead of us. Entered 1355 and waited for about 45min. Submitted the docs and then was asked to make payment (31,900 = 355USD - yeah exchange rate  ) and return both receipts (2). After initial docs accepted , we were asked to wait for the I130 "interview". 20 min later and a few simple questions regarding our relationship and how we met, we were done. Received a "conditinal approval" and on to the next step = gather fingerprints/police records/medical check/i-864 - can be submitted there though.
Highlights:
o Very helpful answering questions (so prepare a list)
o "Common sense" approach - you may ask about details there e.g. my wife is keeping her maiden name in Japan but using mine in the US; how does this affect her signature, etc. (No big deal, many in this situation will keep maiden name as "middle" name and that was confirmed.)
o Friendly - Easy going -we are both native speakers.
o Efficient - If you are prepared, asides from the waiting time, they're pretty fastidious and quick.
o Free water
o Internet and free printing - in case you missed something.
o Friendly - Guards were nice?
"Things that make you say hmmmmmm.":
o Clear files: they took mine, or should I say, I didn't ask for them back 
o "2pm appt." = The embassy lets the LINEUP of "2pm appt's" in which on this day was 25 people.
Recommendations:
o Prepare all docs - upon entry you'll receive a checklist, place everything in order
o Go together - "It's more convenient for us if both are here." - Staff
o No food/drinks/ipods inside - these are forbidden INSIDE, and will be kept outside until after your appointment.
o Go early: Hard to say, but today we were 15 min early and had 25 people ahead of us; the 1st gentleman said he had been there for "...an hour." Appt: 1400 Seen: 1445.
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Consulate / USCIS Member Review #5023