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| London, United Kingdom |  Review on September 21, 2023: |
ffsRhys
Rating:  | Review Topic: K1 Visa
I had my K-1 Visa interview appointment at 9:30 am, but I made sure to arrive at the US Embassy 40 minutes early. On arriving, I was met with a sizable queue and, unfortunately, I initially stood in the wrong line. A heads up to others: you need to approach the desk by the doors first. There's a bit of confusion because, although the K-1 visa is technically a non-immigrant visa, they process it as an immigrant visa. There were clear indications that some signage improvements could be helpful, as another lady there for the K-1 Visa also seemed perplexed by the same issue.
After clearing the initial desk, I went through a security check, which felt akin to an airport security but with a more relaxed vibe. The officers at security hinted I should bypass the general "visa" line and proceed directly to the front desk. A minor hiccup again - you actually need to use the 'US Citizens' line for this.
The front desk team were efficient; they took my DS-160, passport, printed some labels, and directed me to my interview location. The seating area in front of the interview windows is quite comfortable. After settling in, I was pleasantly surprised when the same lady from earlier found her way to the correct interview area. When she approached, we shared a light-hearted moment as she joked, "You did a better job of finding this than I did!" It was a small, humorous interaction that eased the anticipation a bit.
The initial interview delved into basic legal questions regarding the marital histories of both my fiancée and me. They collected documents including my DS-160, birth certificate, and passport. They also took my fiancée's I-134 and tax return. I pointed out to the officer that we had a joint sponsor (so another 134 and tax return), given that the tax return from the prior year for my fiancée was slightly below the required threshold. He said if they need it they will take it at the next window After taking my fingerprints, I was guided to wait for a subsequent call from another officer to continue the interview.
After a 35-minute wait in the comfy chairs, I was up for the main event. To my delight, the officer handling my case was incredibly friendly and warm. We shared a laugh over the story of our relationship. Before I knew it, he dropped the golden words: "Your visa is approved." To my surprise, they didn't even require my joint sponsor's details, which I had anticipated might be an needed (what a waste of time that was lololol).
With a bright smile, he informed me that my passport would return in 1-2 weeks and wished me a good time in Wisconsin. I left the embassy feeling elated, barely able to grasp the smoothness of the entire process.
In conclusion, while there might be some initial confusion due to unclear signage, the overall process was efficient, and the staff were genuinely helpful and cordial. I'm now eagerly awaiting my passport so I can book my flights.
The service at the US Embassy in London? Top-notch! Feeling over the moon right now.
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Consulate / USCIS Member Review #32520