|
|
| Belgrade, Yugoslavia |  Review on June 1, 2023: |
siglavyallegra
Rating:  | Review Topic: IR-1/CR-1 Visa
We arrived 20 minutes before the scheduled interview time and there was already a long queue in front of the embassy. My spouse wasn't allowed inside with me, but this is partly our fault since we sent an email letting them know that he plans to accompany me 24 hours in advance, but the embassy was closed for Memorial Day a day prior and they weren't able to put him on the list in time. Oh well, there was a very nice cafe just around the corner where he waited for me. Everyone at the embassy was incredibly approachable, polite and warm with a big smile on their faces. Total time spent inside was around 1 hour and 20 minutes, of which 95% was spent just sitting in the waiting area for my number to be called. I was called to the interviewing booth twice, first was to hand over some of my original civil documents to be checked (marriage and birth certificate and police report) and have my fingerprints taken. The lady that greeted me was very, very nice! She asked some general questions, this all took less than 10 minutes and I was then instructed to wait for my number to be called again, which would serve as the actual interview part of the appointment. Several minutes later, I was called to a second booth where I was greeted with yet another incredibly pleasant consular officer. The whole conversation felt more like a casual chat than an important interview. He asked me a few questions about my spouse, his family and our life here in Serbia, asked to see some of the pictures I brought with me and that was pretty much it! He said that he's going to approve the visa, wished us both luck and I was on my way feeling elated. They kept my passport, printed the visa and mailed it 48 hours later after which I received instructions on when and where to collect it via email. All in all, my experience with the embassy and the entire interview process was extremely positive and their professionalism, courteousness and friendly approach made the entire event far less stressful and scary than anticipated!
| |
|
Consulate / USCIS Member Review #32121