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| London, United Kingdom |  Review on January 12, 2024: |
rubym2020
Rating:  | Review Topic: IR-1/CR-1 Visa
I had my interview for a spousal Visa on January 12th. I had my medical on January 4th.
This is quite an in-depth review as I find these very helpful!
I stayed at the Vauxhall Travelodge as I was traveling from the north west and had an appointment at 9:30am. The walk is short but a little complicated as there is currently a lot of road works going on, however would recommend for anyone needing an overnight stay.
I arrived at 9am for a 9:30am appointment. There is a sign for those with a DS160 but if you have a DS260 you should go to the front of the queue and tell them that. Rather than state your visa category, I would suggest mentioning the DS260 instead.
I showed them my passport and they took my name. They put a sticker on my passport and told me to join the security queue. I went through security and showed my phone unlocked. I then followed the signs for visas. I mentioned my Bluetooth headphones when they asked about other electronics but they were fine Everyone up to this point was very friendly and patient and as long as you have your passport and DS160/260 confirmation you will be fine!
I went up to the counter and gave my passport and DS260 again. They signed me in and told me to take the lift to the first floor and then go left and left again. When you first get off the lift and go left, make sure you go all the way to the end of the room before going left again. It is very spacious but quite busy!
Your number will be on a slip from the front desk so look out for it on the screens - there are no audio announcements. I got called up quickly and was asked for my passport and DS260, my birth certificate, my marriage certificate, and my police docs. I had a police check from the UK, Japan and New Zealand. The NZ check was sent straight to the embassy (I had an email confirming that just in case) and they had it already. The Japanese one was sealed and over 2 years old, but it was still valid as I have not returned since. I confirmed this at the desk just in case! I also had my finger prints scanned.
We had a quick chat about my Texan marriage cert as it's quite decorative!! The clerk mentioned he was from Missouri and his was very boring so we had a little giggle which was nice. He was very friendly, patient and made me feel like I was in good hands! I was expecting my medical to be outstanding however it had already arrived and been processed!!
I then waited for about 40-50 mins for the interview section. I saw my number come up so I want to the booth, swore an oath and gave my finger prints again. The clerk (a different one, still very friendly!) asked me how I met my wife, when we got married, when we last saw each other and what my wife does for a living. Then, I was told I was approved!!! I was a little shocked as I did not expect my medical to have been processed in time but I could not be happier!! I said thank you and was told to expect my passport back in 5-10 days. I was given back all other original documents except my passport. As I had my interview on a Friday, I imagine it will be a few days before any further action is taken.
The whole experience was very simple, efficient and good overall!! If you come prepared you will be fine. All the staff are friendly and I definitely recommend engaging them in conversation as it makes the process that little nicer.
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Consulate / USCIS Member Review #32879