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| Tokyo, Japan |  Review on April 14, 2015: |
shiroiuso
Rating:  | Review Topic: IR-1/CR-1 Visa
My husband had his interview at the Tokyo embassy on 4/13. In line with what others here have experienced, everything went very smoothly and the interview was very easy. In fact, the only trouble we had was with the security officer outside, who seemed to think I wasn't allowed to come in with him. After a battle of wills ("I think you aren't allowed inside." "Uh... I think I am." and so on), the officer's coworker set him straight and told him that since I am a US citizen it's okay for me to go in.
So, if you want to accompany your wife or fiance for emotional support and the security officers try to give you some nonsense about not being allowed inside, don't let them! As long as you have ID to prove your citizenship, they should let you in.
It was a good thing I got in, too, because I had done ALL of the paperwork for the visa and my husband wouldn't have known what an Affidavit of Support was if it jumped up and bit him.
Anyway. His appointment was for 8:30 and we probably arrived around 8:20 or so. The line was very short; the wait inside was longer. Between submitting the paperwork, having his fingerprints taken, and finally going up for the interview, we probably waited about 2 hours. I didn't go up with him to the window, but I sat directly behind him. Here's what I could piece together of the questions from what I overheard and what my husband told me later:
So you're married to [my name], correct?
When were you married?
Oh, it's your anniversary today isn't it? Happy anniversary! (that was nice of him)
How long did you date before you were married?
How did you meet?
How did you propose?
Do you live together?
What does she do for a living?
Where are you planning to live in America?
Why did you two decide to move to America?
And then he gave us a thumbs up and the visa was approved! As of today, our status at CEAC reads "Issued" - so fast! We didn't bring any other evidence, nor was it asked for. In fact, they gave us some paperwork BACK because they didn't need it... even though NVC had instructed me to bring it... whatever!!
Overall, I'd rate the US Tokyo Embassy a 5 for the kindness of its staff and efficiency of operation, but I have to knock off 1 for the inconvenience we had with security outside. Still, we are VERY grateful to have had such an pleasant experience at the conclusion of the general nightmare that is the visa journey!
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Consulate / USCIS Member Review #16587