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| Chicago IL |  Review on February 4, 2010: |
Mestis
Rating:  | Review Topic: Adjustment of Status
We took a cab to downtown Chicago office around 9:45. Appointment was at 10:28.
First, we went through airport security (metal detector), took the escalator and when to the reception. Talking briefly with the reception lady, she told us to wait for our lawyer and he would give her the letter.The waiting room had about 50 people waiting in it.
Our lawyer got there at 10:10, gave the letter, and we got one of those "restaurant" beeper.
Around 10:30, we got "beeped" in. A nice lady met us at the door and asked us to join her in her office. She introduced herself and told us she would be our officer for the interview.
First we stood, and were placed under oath. Asked to see our identification, my husband drivers license, and my passport and I-94. I also showed her my Illinois drivers license.
Then she verified the information in our files, asked the YES/NO questions again. I was asked if I was registered to vote or already voted in the USA (which I answered No).
Got some issue with my middle name. I wanted to use a middle name my maiden name, but they said it could not be done, so I decided to forget the middle name for now (I can figure what to do when it's time to renew the 10 year GC).
Then she asked for our proof of common life. We had our lease (she already had it on file), our common insurance (car, renters, health), one join saving account, one credit card account. She asked to see my original birth certificate, the translation, our original wedding license. She asked for pictures. We showed her our shower/rehearsal diner/Wedding album. She commented how nice it was, and asked questions about the location. She asked if we had any copies. We did had a bunch of loose pictures we gave her.
We had a new affidavit of support, with my husband paystub for the last 2 months. I offered to give her that, but she mentioned we were already cleared for that.
Then she said that she would review our file and we should have a letter about the decision in about 1-3 months, and that if we did not have any news by then to do an InfoPass appointment. Her and our lawyer mentioned about the condition and that everything should be explained with our green card at reception.
We were out of there by 11:00.
I must say the experience (other than the airport security) was rather pleasant (considering what we were doing). Everybody (reception, security guards, officer) was friendly and helpful. I was really nervous considering reviews I've read, but I must say it went pretty smoothly and painless....
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Consulate / USCIS Member Review #5647