Original Documents... Really?

[ezra 0]

OK, we are putting together our IV package for my mother-in-law from Vietnam. I am getting many questions from the family on whether we really need to submit original copies of birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc. Is this really needed or is a certified copy acceptable? They are very hesitant to hand over their original documents...

Also, isn't she supposed to bring the originals to the interview? Or will NVC send the Consulate the original?

The Vietnam HCMC Consulate does state 'Original and copy' here: http://travel.state.gov/pdf/pk3_supplements/HCM-PK3-MULT-0001-1204.pdf But elsewhere I have read that you can provide a certified copy.

I am sorry to duplicate this question, but I want to be 100% sure.

Thanks.

[Anh map 2,098]

Have a copy to submit and an original for inspection.

[ezra 0]

To add more to my question... At the HCMC website for interview instructions, it states that 'You must have both the original and a copy for the documents listed below.', but how can we if we mailed in the original already???

http://photos.state.gov/libraries/vietnam/171343/PDF/APPOINTMENT%20PACKAGE%20FOR%20IMMIGRANT%20VISA%20APPLICANTS.pdf

Have a copy to submit and an original for inspection.

Thanks, so only bring the originals to the interview? Is that what you mean by for inspection?

[ScottThuy 140]

A certified copy of a marriage or birth cert are considered originals.. As long as it has that red seal from the govt office in VN the Consulate and NVC has had no issue with it in the past...

[ezra 0]

Thank you that helps!