US Consulate in Bermuda

[BermyCat 1]

Since there isn't really an information on the US Consulate in Bermuda here on VJ, I'd like to share my experiences with them. I figure any Bermudians that find VJ would appreciate the information. I'll fill in the Embassy Info section as soon as Bermuda gets added.

Background:

I'm applying for the K-1 Fiancee Visa. My US fiance petitioned USCIS last May. Since then, my father has gotten engaged so we are trying to get married and get advanced parole in time to return to Bermuda this coming May for Dad's wedding.

First email:

As soon as we got the USCIS email saying our petition was approved, I emailed the consulate to ask what documents I could gather in advance of actually receiving Package 3. I explained my reasons for wanting to get to the interview as quickly as I could. The visa assistant responded the next day. She invited me to come to the consulate during their immigrant visa information hours on Tuesdays. These are walk-in hours, no appointments are necessary. Do not be afraid to email the Bermuda consulate. They are quite nice and respond quickly.

First visit:

At the walk-in hours today, the visa assistant told me that they had received our petition from NVC. She had my Package 3 ready and went through the forms and checklist with me. Please note: You cannot order your Bermuda police check or book your medical appointment until you get Package 3. Everything else can be prepared in advance.

Since I lived in Canada for many years, I have to get a Canadian police certificate. The consulate here only accepts the fingerprints based RCMP criminal records check. The CPIC name and birthdate check is not acceptable. Also, if you were born in Canada, you need the long-form birth certificate. The short0form version isn't sufficient.

So far, the US Consulate in Bermuda seems pretty professional and helpful.

~ Catherine