DS156, DS 157 and other confusions

[TeapotGirl 66]

I am getting different information here and it's crazy.

DS 156- One thread says I need to fill it out online to get the barcode. Why there's still a downloadable version of this that expires 2013? What would happen if I presented them the "old one"?

DS 157- I see threads that says this is only for MALE BENEFICIARY (I am female). Do I really need this or not?

It also says that I can get it through BPI or Citibank. Why I still have to get it there if I can download it? Is there any cost attached to this form?

When should I know that it's time to schedule an interview?

Who schedules an appointment for the interview?

The petitioner or the beneficiary?

What number to call?

Any tips?

[renecherubs 18]

I am getting different information here and it's crazy.

DS 156- One thread says I need to fill it out online to get the barcode. Why there's still a downloadable version of this that expires 2013? What would happen if I presented them the "old one"?

ds 156 must be fill out online.can also be answered handwritten with the barcode of course.

DS 157- I see threads that says this is only for MALE BENEFICIARY (I am female). Do I really need this or not?

male / female must have this.

It also says that I can get it through BPI or Citibank. Why I still have to get it there if I can download it? Is there any cost attached to this form?

the ds 157 is not really needed when paying . just go to bpi, pay the visa fee. bring ur passport and that's it. keep the mrv bpi receipt that will be given to you. usembassy will look for it during the interview.

When should I know that it's time to schedule an interview?

upon knowing that your files has arrived in the us embassy manila.this information could come from your inquiry in NVC, who would inform you that they had sent your files to the appropriate consulate or through email inquiry done by you to the USembassy Manila.

Who schedules an appointment for the interview?

could be done by the petitioner or beneficiary. either way, is okay.

The petitioner or the beneficiary?

What number to call?

just search the number of the USEM manila. I did mine using online scheduling. through that, i could just click what date i want and what time will be my appointment. less hassle and quicker.

Any tips?

for online scheduling of interview appointment, use your passport number as the receipt number. and wait for a few hours or to make it sure, wait 24 hours before scheduling. it takes time for your payment to go into their system. gud luck.

for my answers, they are all based on my personal experience. i might be wrong in my answers...but it worked in my case. gud luck.

[TeapotGirl 66]

thank you so much! I appreciate it.