A word of advice make sure spouse attends interview

[BethAnn and Omar 42]

Just wanted to let ya'll know that the CO specifically asked where I was and then called me into my husband's interview in Kingston Jamaica. My husband couldn't remember the exact date of my last trip and the CO told me that he was concerned. I told him I've been to see my husband 14 times since we met and then he asked how many times since we were married... I told him 8. He also asked me for dates of our most recent photos.

So my advice?? Go with your spouse to the interview!!! Because if any questionscome up tthere will be an opportunity to address them if you are there. They will ask where you are and will probably want to meet you. Especially for countries where there are significant cases of fraud.

I hope this helps. Not sure we would have gotten the visa if I hadn't been there.

BethAnn

[KayDeeCee 4,893]

~ Moved from K-1 Process to IR-1/CR-1 Process - topic is about spousal visa interview ~

[BethAnn and Omar 42]

Thanks sorry about that!! I meant to post it there!!!

[Rose13 30]

My hubby came with me to the interview and I think it helped a lot. He and the CO started talking about playing instruments in high scholl and within 2 minutes the interview was over!

[Hypnos 6,576]

Unfortunately it varies from consulate to consulate. Some allow it, some don't, some absolutely require it, others don't.

[dirk_diggler 107]

It's difficult for some people to get time off work, or pay for the air fare, etc.

[NikLR 13,227]

Some embassies do not allow for the spouse to attend... some embassies require spousal attendance (DR is one for example.) It really varies.

[BethAnn and Omar 42]

I'm just saying if you are able to you should attend because for us it made all the difference.

[NikLR 13,227]

In countries like Jamaica it sure does!

[JKSforever 7]

Hiw about philippines?

[Dan from MI 23]

Hiw about philippines?

It is a good idea for everybody to look on their own consulate website- some stated the answer to our questions. If not, look the "reviews: Embassy/USCIS & POE" section on VJ.

For example, it is not required in Brazil where my wife is going to have her interview but the embassy stated that they HIGHLY recommended and some people in the "reviews: Embassy/USCIS & POE" on Brazil said it was a best to bring the spouse.

Either way if they allow or not, it does help for emotional support for beneficiaries to know that you are seconds away from them.

Yes, I plan being at the consulate when my wife get her interview.

[Removed030114 48]

What's most important is to make sure you have properly completed all paperwork before you file and make sure you provide the beneficiary with any other additional evidence before the interview. That includes: photos, receipts, divorce certificates, birth certificates, copies of the original package and so on. They should have a large bag to carry it. It most likely won't be needed, but better to have too much than not enough.

It's long been debated as to whether the petitioner should attend the interview, and many think as the OP stated that's it's good to be there. Truth is, due to work, money, or logistics it's not often possible for the petitioner to attend. If they are able to be with their partner for the interview, they will not be allowed to accompany them. They must wait until the interview is over. The USCIS assures all petitioners and beneficiaries that attendance is NOT required or has any bearing whatsoever on how the case will be adjudicated. So, for those who may be worried that their case may be rejected because they are not able to attend the interview, do NOT worry. You will be fine; especially if you make sure you provide and prepare the beneficiary for any contingency.

[NikLR 13,227]

CNTrav there are consulates and embassies where it is mandatory that the spouse attend. The DR is one of those. In other consulates or embassies, like Montreal, Canada, for example, it's not that big of a deal. The USCIS doesn't have any say on if an IR1/CR1 or K1 or K3 get a visa or not. So whatever they say on the matter, really is moot.

[Cathi 5,740]

What's most important is to make sure you have properly completed all paperwork before you file and make sure you provide the beneficiary with any other additional evidence before the interview. That includes: photos, receipts, divorce certificates, birth certificates, copies of the original package and so on. They should have a large bag to carry it. It most likely won't be needed, but better to have too much than not enough.

It's long been debated as to whether the petitioner should attend the interview, and many think as the OP stated that's it's good to be there. Truth is, due to work, money, or logistics it's not often possible for the petitioner to attend. If they are able to be with their partner for the interview, they will not be allowed to accompany them. They must wait until the interview is over. The USCIS assures all petitioners and beneficiaries that attendance is NOT required or has any bearing whatsoever on how the case will be adjudicated. So, for those who may be worried that their case may be rejected because they are not able to attend the interview, do NOT worry. You will be fine; especially if you make sure you provide and prepare the beneficiary for any contingency.

Many consulates don't ask for additional evidence at the interview, even when you bring it. I was at the interview with my husband and the CO didn't ask to see any of our evidence even though he was aware we brought it.

[Ketsuban 1,034]

Kind of sucks for petitioners who get no annual leave, since there is no legal minimum in the USA. They'd essentially have to quit their job to fly over, and they might be the sole sponsor too. Don't some embassies refuse co-sponsors? Hopefully they aren't the same ones who need the petitioner there.