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| Rio de Janeiro, Brazil |  Review on January 8, 2010: |
SingleCharles
Rating:  | Review Topic: K1 Visa
We arrived an hour early. There were about 50 people already in line. There was a lot of confusion about where we needed to go (upstairs). There were a few that used lawyers that were not prepared for their interview and were turned away. We followed the advice of VisaJourney and were totally prepared. The second person verified our paperwork and noted that I had not included my 2008 taxes (not completed at the time). She said that I would need to bring them in after the interview.
While waiting for the last interview, one women was asked to retake her photos because because her ears were not showing. One man did not bring money to pay the fee and decided to argue with the receptionist stating that he should be exempt. Another woman started expressing her frustration loudly.
After about a 1/2 hour, we were called to the final interview. The person interviewing us asked my fiancee questions about my family, my kids, birthdays, learning English, how we met, etc. He did not look at any of our \"proof of relationship\" - much to our disappointment. After 5 minutes, he said \"you are approved\". We exited and then wondered if all that work, stress, sleepless nights, crying, and frustration had been approved in just five minutes. We asked the receptionist where we need to bring my 2008 taxes and she said, \"If he did not give you a paper with additional requirements, you are done. Your interview is complete\". We walked out in total shock, total happiness. 
We would give the experience a \"4\", but the worst part of the experience was talking to someone on the phone at the consulate in Rio prior to arrival. The phone people at the US Consulate in Rio were intolerant, curt, and close to being rude at times.
My advice is to follow the guides here on VJ. Go prepared to show every piece of imaginable documenation. SHOW YOUR EARS in the photo. Bring your money to pay. Do not argue with anyone working there - the fast track to shutting down any possible assistance. Lastly, answer directly and concisely only the questions you are asked. Resist the urge to explain or justify your answer. If they need more information they will ask.
(updated on January 8, 2010)
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Consulate / USCIS Member Review #5514