US Embassy Islamabad - Notary Service experience

[grad_student 11]

I am not sure where this should be posted. I want to share my experience with getting a document (not immigration related) notarized at the US Embassy in Islamabad. The document was required to process the refinancing of our house in the US, which my wife wants to do while I am stuck here in Pakistan.

I got to the shuttle service center around 9:50 AM. Bought the ticket, went through security and arrived at the US Embassy around 10:10 AM. Got through security agian, got a token, more secutiry, and then was told to go to window # 1. Got into the waiting area with all the interview windows and told the security guard that I need to get a document notarized. He took half of my token and gave it to the person at windwon # 1. After a little while, a Pakistani guy asked for my document and passport, told me to go submit the fee ($50), and asked for both the receipts. He asked me if I understood the dicument, which I did more or less. He didnt look so sure that I understand the docuemnt, so he made me wait in the waiting area outside for like 10 minutes to carefully read the document I needed to get notarized. He told me if the consular (person notarizing the document) suspects I do not completelty understand the document, he will ask me to go through the document carefully and ask to come agian the next day to get it notarized. So I sat there, going through the document. More like memorizing it like a shool going kid. After a while (10 mins or so), my number is called and this time its a white guy on the other side of the window. He asks me if I understand the document. I replied yes. Then he asked me what the document is. I procedeed to explain. I had only said couple of sentences before he just said OK and looked convinced that I undertand the document. Took oath. Made me sign the form in front of him. Left window for a minute or two. Came back with notarized document. Gave me my passport, receipt for payment, and the notarized document back. He looked like a nice friendly guy. I said thanks and left.

Overall a good experience. Took me about 45-50 mins inside the embassy. Took the shuttle back, and drove back to work. For those who need a docuemnt notarized, make sure you not only understand the document but can also tell them the (major) specific details of the document as well. I could have saved like 10 mins had I done that.

[Ryan H 3,812]

Moved from US Embassy & Consulate Discussion to Asia: South regional forum; topic is specific to Pakistan.