Scheduling Interview

[StephanieB 43]

Hi all, I'm sure some people will be annoyed with this question as I'm sure it has been asked on here a million times. However, I hope some one can help me understand the process a bit better once the NOA2 is received. We received our NOA2 on April 26, 2019. I do know to give them time to receive our petition, assign a case #, etc. I have two questions:

1. As soon as we receive a case # from the NVC can I then go online to complete the DS 160? Or should I wait to receive the packet 3?
2. Once I complete the DS 160 online can I then log in to schedule an interview? Or should I wait until packet 4? The reason I ask this question is because I just read this on the U.S. Embassy & Consulates In Canada website:

 

"DS-160: Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application

The DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form, is for temporary travel to the United States, and for K (fiancé(e)) visas. Form DS-160 is submitted electronically to the Department of State website via the Internet. Consular Officers use the information entered on the DS-160 to process the visa application and, combined with a personal interview, determine an applicant’s eligibility for a nonimmigrant visa.

Visa applicants must submit a completed DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application for all nonimmigrant visa categories, including applicants applying for K visas. (Note:  For K visa cases in process at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate prior to October 7, 2013, review the limited exceptions explained in the FAQs below.) 

Review the Frequently Asked Questions for instructions about using the DS-160.

Access the online DS-160 by clicking: Consular Electronic Application Center website.

Important Notice to Visa Applicants: After you have completed the DS-160, you must take these next steps below:

• Print and keep the DS-160 barcode page. (You will not need to print the full application.)
• You must schedule a visa interview appointment. (The U.S. Embassy or Consulate does not schedule an appointment for you.) Visit the U.S. Embassy or Consulate website where you will be interviewed for country-specific instructions.;
• Pay the visa application processing fee. Review country-specific instructions on the U.S. Embassy or Consulate website."
  
  Any advice and guidance would be greatly appreciated. If you are annoyed with this topic I apologize and please just don't respond. 
  
  Thank you.

[NikLR 13,227]

~~moved to process and procedures from progress reports ~~

 

you can do the DS-160 yes.  However wait until your CEAC status says ready before you send the packet 3 checklist. Montreal may reject it if its too early as well.  

 

Do not book an interview until you get packet 4 from the consulate.  Montreal will cancel it. 

Edited May 10, 2019 by NikLR

[StephanieB 43]

4 hours ago, NikLR said:

~~moved to process and procedures from progress reports ~~

 

you can do the DS-160 yes.  However wait until your CEAC status says ready before you send the packet 3 checklist. Montreal may reject it if its too early as well.  

 

Do not book an interview until you get packet 4 from the consulate.  Montreal will cancel it. 

Ok perfect! Thank you so much for the info, it’s exactly what I needed. 

[QueenieBonds 15]

Typically, How long does it take from the time you get your MTL number until your case says ready?