Guangzhou IV Unit (GUZ) is a bit slow when mailing out the P3 packet. If you are calling DOS daily to check on status - you'll find that it's about 3 weeks from the time that DOS has 'P3 sent' status, to the date your fiancee actually receives the P3 packet.

What's Going On?

Once the casefile is opened at GUZ, the namechecks are started. About 4 days after the casefile is opened, a tag is set so a P3 bundle will be created (DOS sees 'P3 sent' at this point). The work order winds it way through to the mailroom, where the actual P3 packet is bundled up and a packet is made for mailiing. Then the packet waits in the mailroom for pickup.

Shaving Time

As soon as DOS tells you that the P3 has been sent, your fiancee can send out the P3 documents via EMS. This will save anywhere from 2 to 3 weeks of wait time.

For a K-1, use the DS-230, either http://guangzhou-ch.usembassy-china.org.cn/uploads/images/AfPkSNWahsJIV12YJeRRmw/230-1.pdf (non fillable ) or http://travel.state.gov/pdf/DS-0230.pdf (fillable -part I only )

You'll also need the OF-169, but it's basically a checklist that needs to be 'checked off' and then signed. http://guangzhou.usembassy-china.org.cn/uploads/images/hQiwhdWlZbZhaK3OJshLbg/K_P3_Form169-May_09.pdf

GUZ IV Forms

http://guangzhou.usembassy-china.org.cn/forms_and_packets.htm

Two Ships Pass in the Night

It is POSSIBLE that the actual day the P3 packet LEAVES the GUZ mailroom is the same day that the GUZ Mailroom receives your fiancee's Self-Generated P3 packet. AND THATS OK.

--Darnell