To visit before or to be there for interview?

[Lisa & Vinko 9]

Thank God the big step is out of the way, but bigger ones to come! In order to make sure that our "evidence of an ongoing relationship" is intact, I really am wondering about my return to Chile. I originally wanted to return to be there for Vinko's interview, but I am wondering if it will look better if I visited between the time the I-129F was filed and the interview. The last time I was in Chile to see Vinko was in May 2010. Flying to Chile is expensive so I don't really want to do this twice. Any ideas?

[TwoCats 55]

Thank God the big step is out of the way, but bigger ones to come! In order to make sure that our "evidence of an ongoing relationship" is intact, I really am wondering about my return to Chile. I originally wanted to return to be there for Vinko's interview, but I am wondering if it will look better if I visited between the time the I-129F was filed and the interview. The last time I was in Chile to see Vinko was in May 2010. Flying to Chile is expensive so I don't really want to do this twice. Any ideas?

We went back and forth about if I should come to visit my fiance' during the waiting period, or wait and come during the interview. Money is tight just right now, so I had some worries about being able to afford two trips. We decided to go ahead and try to do both, although if the choice came down to it, I'd chose to be there for his interview over coming for a visit.

[RICARDO4EVA2 194]

Thank God the big step is out of the way, but bigger ones to come! In order to make sure that our "evidence of an ongoing relationship" is intact, I really am wondering about my return to Chile. I originally wanted to return to be there for Vinko's interview, but I am wondering if it will look better if I visited between the time the I-129F was filed and the interview. The last time I was in Chile to see Vinko was in May 2010. Flying to Chile is expensive so I don't really want to do this twice. Any ideas?

Well for the ongoing relationship... it's up to you non would measured any greater than the other. But if it was me I'd go prior to the Interview and so you can also provide more recent documents to prove your relationship. If the consulate would allow you to enter then I'd say going there to be present at the interview would work just as good. Know that it is not a requirement for you to appear for the interview unless otherwise requested.

[Lisa & Vinko 9]

The consulate does allow fiance(e)s to enter...

[USColombia 6]

Being there for the interview defiantly. Nothing says commitment like you being there and if something goes wrong, Plan B for the officer will be to quiz both of you. Plan B for the officer if you aren't there is "try again at a later time."

[Blob18 111]

Personally, I'd go for the interview. It would really help out your fiancee (emotional support) and show the staffer doing the interview that you are serious and it is a real relationship.

If asked why you havent visited since May 2010, just explain why (money problems, work related etc).

If you go for the interview, you can bring all the documents you the USC needs to provide then.

[katie & sifa 25]

If Chile allows the petitioner to be present for the interview, I say go for that. There is, in my opinion, no greater proof of an ongoing relationship than you standing there next to your fiance for the interview. I went with my (now) husband to his interview and it lasted 5 minutes - the CO looked surprised to see me, asked Sifa two questions, glanced at some pictures and did not want to see any of our other giant folder of proof of ongoing relationship. Obviously it will vary by consulate, but there's my two cents. I really do think it helps to be there for the interview if you can (and it certainly doesn't hurt!)

[J and S 38]

How exciting for your next big step to be in the near future

...

I am currently asking myself the same question...and of course with all the fees and a wedding and transitioning, money is a tight issue for me too. But I think that going to the interview would be better.

You'll be able to be there with Vinko I'm sure he'll be nervous, and your presence will help him.

I'm sure it will help when the Consulate officer sees you there too! What more proof could they want or need if you're there in person haha

Good luck in your decision

[Lisa & Vinko 9]

Personally, I'd go for the interview. It would really help out your fiancee (emotional support) and show the staffer doing the interview that you are serious and it is a real relationship.

If asked why you havent visited since May 2010, just explain why (money problems, work related etc).

If you go for the interview, you can bring all the documents you the USC needs to provide then.

Exactly my thoughts as to why to go for interview!

[Lisa & Vinko 9]

How exciting for your next big step to be in the near future

...

I am currently asking myself the same question...and of course with all the fees and a wedding and transitioning, money is a tight issue for me too. But I think that going to the interview would be better.

You'll be able to be there with Vinko I'm sure he'll be nervous, and your presence will help him.

I'm sure it will help when the Consulate officer sees you there too! What more proof could they want or need if you're there in person haha

Good luck in your decision

Exactly...I am very concerned about Vinko being there alone...had been down this route when he tried to get a tourist visa to see me and it was the site of a very big disappointment...that is reason alone to join him!

[TBoneTX 45,292]

Nothing says commitment like you being there and if something goes wrong, Plan B for the officer will be to quiz both of you. Plan B for the officer if you aren't there is "try again at a later time."

This is the very best of several excellent posts. Go a couple of days before, take pictures, find a place to print them out, and bring them to the interview, si man.

[Messybrownhair 251]

Definitely go for the interview. I was so happy that my fiance came CONGRATULATIONS!

[Rhonda2011 0]

IT WILL REALLY HELP IF YOU GO WITH HIM FOR I INTERVIEW.MY WIFE WILL BE COMING WITH ME WHEN MY TIME COMES.WISH YOU ALL THE BEST.

[Aztec&Taino 144]

Thank God the big step is out of the way, but bigger ones to come! In order to make sure that our "evidence of an ongoing relationship" is intact, I really am wondering about my return to Chile. I originally wanted to return to be there for Vinko's interview, but I am wondering if it will look better if I visited between the time the I-129F was filed and the interview. The last time I was in Chile to see Vinko was in May 2010. Flying to Chile is expensive so I don't really want to do this twice. Any ideas?

Hello Lisa!

Well, I would suggest do both! Of course, I just returned from visiting my fiance for New Year, received NOA2 last week, and I am returning at the beginning of March for 10 days. I am also planning to go to the interview (thinking that it might take place end of April or around first half of May). If your financial situation allows, why not go for both? Having said this, your decision should really involve some consulate-specific knowledge/research. Is it expected for the petitioner to be present at the interview in Chile? If you are not present, would this be an instant denial of Vinko's visa? I do not know the answer because I have not read reviews specific to Santiago de Chile, but I suppose that if you have patience and your funds are limited a trip for the interview might be the better choice.

Best wishes and I hope the interview is scheduled soon!

[Lisa & Vinko 9]

This is the very best of several excellent posts. Go a couple of days before, take pictures, find a place to print them out, and bring them to the interview, si man.