Fiance present during final interview

[Ash & Rian 0]

Hi there! This is my first post here, so hopefully I’m posting this in the correct place. I’ve tried searching the forums and using keys words and couldn’t find the answer to this question. 
 

During the final interview I saw that the consulate in Johannesburg, South Africa does allow for the US Petitioner to be present. However, we are trying to gauge how important it is. Does it make no difference either way or does it really help the interview to have both parties present? 
 

thank y’all for your help! 
 

Ash (TX) & Rian (SA)

[SorrowL 138]

It isn’t required, but if you can be there, be there. It shows dedication and authenticity to the relationship. 

[JCP 29]

Hi! Sorry this is off topic but I see your interview is in joburg and I know the office is closed down but I wanna know how did you get your interview if it’s closed down. Where did they reschedule it?

[Henry&Eliana 3]

We were at out interview yesterday and I think it made a huge difference that I was there with my fiance. Some people were asked many questions while we were barely asked any questions, the officer asked if I'm the petitioner and seemed really happy I was there. We were approved. But they are so friendly, if you have enough evidence I think you will be fine even if petitioner does not attend. You'll simply be asked more questions.

[artcodex 28]

On 1/30/2020 at 11:32 AM, JCP said:

Hi! Sorry this is off topic but I see your interview is in joburg and I know the office is closed down but I wanna know how did you get your interview if it’s closed down. Where did they reschedule it?

Are you thinking about uscis in Johannesburg. That may be closed or in process of closing. The consulate is still there in Sandton.

[Just Paul 4,595]

On 1/30/2020 at 11:32 AM, JCP said:

joburg

The USCIS office is closed.  The Embassy / Consulate is not.

[Ash & Rian 0]

On 1/30/2020 at 9:08 PM, Henry&Eliana said:

We were at out interview yesterday and I think it made a huge difference that I was there with my fiance. Some people were asked many questions while we were barely asked any questions, the officer asked if I'm the petitioner and seemed really happy I was there. We were approved. But they are so friendly, if you have enough evidence I think you will be fine even if petitioner does not attend. You'll simply be asked more questions.

Thank you! We are just trying to figure out if it’ll make a big difference. I want to be there, but it’s obviously very expensive to do so. Hope your interview went well! 

18 hours ago, Paul & Mary said:

The USCIS office is closed.  The Embassy / Consulate is not.

What did the USCIS office do vs the Embassy/Consulate? Sorry súper new to this whole process & still learning 

[Mike E 11,739]

29 minutes ago, Ash & Rian said:

Thank you! We are just trying to figure out if it’ll make a big difference. I want to be there, but it’s obviously very expensive to do so. 

A K-1 spouse is the ultimate luxury import.

 

If you can't afford a trip to JoBo, consider all the other costs after your future spouse comes to the USA. For 6 months, give or take, your fiance(e)/spouse will not be allowed to work in the USA, and you will have to provide food, shelter, and health care (due to ACA, this costs about $2000 per month, out of pocket including premiums).

 

The embassy where we applied didn't allow the USA citizen fiance to be at the interview. But when my then fiancee had her interview, the CO asked her "when is the last time you saw your fiance?", she replied, "two hours ago, he is waiting outside". Her visa was approved.

[Just Paul 4,595]

1 hour ago, Ash & Rian said:

What did the USCIS office do vs the Embassy/Consulate?

Consulates issue visas.   From an immigrations standpoint, a USCIS field office could adjudicate a spousal visa if the petitioner also lived in its jurisdiction.  However that option basically ended today worldwide with a policy change.