|
|
| Sydney, Australia |  Review on November 18, 2008: |
we met in japan
Rating:  | Review Topic: K1 Visa
I arrived at the consulate super early, (7:15 am for a 9:00 am appt) and was told to come back at 8:30, luckily too, I realized that on my walk to the consulate I had lost my passport photos and now needed to find a photo store and have a new set taken. I found a kodak store in the MLC foodcourt that opened at 8 so I waited, and finally had them taken, the guy had some troubles with his printer, so after waiting till 8:40, I finally got the pics back, and the guy felt so bad he didn't even charge me.
Moving on, I raced back upstairs to the security, waited in line, handed over my cell phones, ipod, and handbag, and was sat in line. 5 mins later, was escorted up in the elevator to level 59. The lady at security on level 59 was in a bad mood, but no problems. Went inside, took a number and took a seat. I was called after about 20 mins to window 3 and got down to business with the guy behind the glass. He asked for my envelope, and I said, well, I didn't bring one as I was planning on next day collection. He informed me that this was no longer available (severe panic set in) but I could wait an extra day and pick it up 2 days later. I said that I would please take that option, and rearrange my accommodation and flights. He looked through my paperwork and sent me to sit again. 15 mins later I was called to window 6, where I had just seen a guy have his visa denied, so I was not to excited. Once I got up there, the guy was lovely, turns out he has family where my fiance and I had planned to marry. He congratulated me on our engagement, and also asked why I had no envelope, and I explained why. He asked a few questions, where we planned to get married, when? And what did my fiance do for work? And what did I plan to do once in the US? I explained that I planned to travel to america 3 days later and be married the next weekend, he gave me that "goodluck" look. We had a bit mre of a chat as he casually flicked through my paperwork and then said congratulations and handed me some papers regarding visa approval and entry to USA, and then asked me to please take a seat for a few more minutes. I was called up to the same window again and the guy had gone out back and had my visa processed on the spot for me! I couldn't believe it! I said, Is this it? I don't need to come back? And he said, that's it, you're all done! Congratulations and goodluck!...
I guess it pays to be nice to the staff at the consulate.
| |
|
Consulate / USCIS Member Review #3593