the waiting game...

[MaxineandMichael 0]

we are VERY new to this, given the fact we just got engaged. We were VERY fortunate to find this site and have learned QUITE allot. Getting ready to fire off our I-129F and then play the waiting game. Question though, while we're trying to get an idea of how long the wait is for the interview, we've noticed that the BIGGEST time spent is the I-129F spending most of it's time in California before being sent off from there to it's next point - would I be correct in assuming that the time lines are an 'average' of ALL the I-129Fs? In other words, if we were fortunate enough to put together a very good package (one that wouldn't need to be returned for further information) - would that drastically cut down on the waiting time? I'm getting the impression that some of these have an extraordinarily long waiting time because of the 'back and forth' that would occur if indeed the package was sent back for further info.

thanks!

Michael and Maxine

[Alex & Rachel 78]

To be honest, very few people on this site get RFEs (request for further evidence) precisely because, like you, we've all read the forums and have put together the best package possible.

Also, those whose who have received RFEs or have their package returned typically only have a delay of around 10 days. The timelines account for this; people who receive a RFE have a different estimated approval date.

So, even if you put together the Perfect Package, your petition is still most likely going to be sitting at CSC for a good few months.

[KimandRuss 0]

Here is a list that will give you a better idea about recent approvals/processing times. Please understand that VJ timelines reflect only the people here who fill in their information. If you fill in your own timline you will get an approximate date. I'm not sure how accurate the CSC estimated dates are but the VSC filers seem to be approved before that date.

CSC is going to take longer than VSC. It's just the way it is...and has been for a long, long time.

Of course, sending the correct information is imperitive but, as Rachel stated, it does not usually delay you too much when you get an RFE. Sometimes even if you send a perfect packet and just happen to fall on the desk of a picky adjuticator you can still get an RFE.

Here is a good thread posted by a former adjuticator explaining how the process works.

Search through the timelines and processing and embassy information here on VJ. You will notice a greater time between approvals and interview dates based on many factors. How long it takes from NOA2 to interview depends very much on the consulate you are dealing with. You can find that information on the tabs at the top of the forums.

Keep in mind that processing times are skewed for a portion of last year because there was a fee increase and huge influx of petitions that created a backlog. Most of that seems to be cleared up by now so check more recent approvals for a more reliable timeline.

Good luck.

[MaxineandMichael 0]

Thanks guys for your responses and for the information links, that has answered a lot of our queries.

Maxine and Michael

[sara..... 371]

welcome and good luck on ur journey may it be smooth and with out problems

[bora bora 1]

Welcome to VJ and the waiting game...

Edited April 3, 2008 by bora bora