haiku

Just for an update now that I've landed in the USA: One week after entering on my CR1, I went down to my nearest SSA office and update my status, pre-filling my data online. I also had to update my name as the Bern Embassy used the German spelling of my surname. I took my passport with the I555 stamp, birth certificate and my old social security card. I had to wait about 90 minutes (expected wait time was 160 minutes, but I got through faster) and the guy at the counter was super helpful. All in all, a very pain free process!

Thanks for sharing your experience, much appreciated!

Thanks to everyone for their responses - I'll give it a few days after arriving, and then check with my local SSO.

Hi Everyone, I have a SSN from 2005 when I was on a J-1 visa (working a winter season as a student). We used this SSN on my visa application. I will be entering on my CR1 visa in February and I am not sure what needs to happen with my SSN (the guy at the embassy couldn't tell me either). Is the most sensible answer just to call the SSO when I'm in the USA? Or do I need to just change my work status (https://faq.ssa.gov/en-US/Topic/article/KA-01436)? Or has anyone dealt with this situation and is aware of the steps that I need to take? Happy Holidays to all and many thanks in advance! Heike

Hi Everyone, Has anyone recently had their case processed at the US embassy in Bern? How long did it take from you DQ-ing to your interview taking place? I just got off the phone to NVC and they said some embassies are backed up by 1.5 years due to COVID, but they could not give me country specific information. I am just trying to get a sense of how long I may have to wait. Best Heike