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| Buffalo NY |  Review on December 9, 2015: |
neuroticbell
Rating:  | Review Topic: Adjustment of Status
Me and my husband arrived at the Buffalo office about an hour early, we drove from PA so we wanted to make sure we were there on time. When we had to go through the metal detectors the guards joked with us asking what we were doing there seeing as both of us spoke perfect English 😁. I found that funny and it put me in a more relaxed mood to be perfectly honest. We went up to the counter and let them know we were there and the waiting began. I think we waited about an hour and a half until the IO called us in. We went in and had to swear to tell the truth. The IO explained to us that the interview was going to take place in 2 parts, one to establish that our marriage was bonafide and the next to establish the legality of my entry in the US. He asked us what we brought as he saw my husband carrying a big black notebook. We showed him the scrapbook, a few extra pictures, letters from family and friends (that were notarized which pleased him). We explained why I was out of status for so long, why we didn't file for my paperwork sooner, why me and my husband didn't have more legal evidence of us being married (leases, bank accounts etc.). He said that although he wished we had more evidence, he understood the situation and that all of the pictures that I have submitted of our marriage through the years was more than enough. So he said on that part he was ready to approve us, sent my husband out and proceeded to question me about my J1 visa. After about 20 minutes of questions he said that something wasn't adding up, that it looked like I applyed for an F1 not a J1 and, although it might of not been my fault and although he believed I was being thruthful, he might have to deny us😢. My face dropped and he began to reassure me that even if that happens it's not the end, I can still file for a waiver. He stepped out trying to find his supervisor, the person who had the ultimate say so, but they were on lunch. He apologized and said he would push as hard as he could for an approval. The interview took about an hour and a half because of my visa issues. I left feeling extremely disappointed and trying really hard to hope for the best. About 2 and a half hours after our interview we got the email that said my card was in production😃. I lost it of course lol. All in all, the Buffalo office was great to me and although it wasn't a smooth interview and we had some issues I couldn't have asked for a more level headed, understanding IO.
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Consulate / USCIS Member Review #18527