|
|
| Montreal, Canada |  Review on August 25, 2010: |
Angie'nMark
Rating:  | Review Topic: IR-1/CR-1 Visa
I am writing this today just after the "approval" of our visa. The reason that I put approved in quotation marks is that I will get it finalized when I am ready to move. Since I have decided to continue working and saving money for the move and potential unemployment, the agent told me to send the passport in for finalization and official stamp when we are ready. (Giving 8 weeks lead time since Montreal is so backed up, normally it would be 4)
So that proviso aside, the experience was very positive and the staff and the consulate was friendly and professional.
My experience was similar to what others have posted. My interview time was shown as 8:30 am on the paper. However, they do let people in at 7:30, and it is somewhat first come first served. Since there were others in line, I waited in the second batch of people, but it did not bother me since I brought a book and was ready to wait.
First you go through security right at the door. Remove all metal objects. From the advice of others on here, I arrived with no electronic devices or cumbersome objects, which made the passage through the metal detector and checkpoint easier.
After I was sent downstairs to the 1st waiting room, for about 20 mins, after I was taken upstairs with a bunch of others. (Both immigrant and non-immigrant visa applicants) Then you are given a number and you wait to be called again. This wait was about 30 minutes more.
I was called to the first window where a young woman took all my documents. I really advise that you keep them in an file labeled for your own sake. Those of you who do electronic filing be advised that the consulate has an EMPTY file for you when you arrive. So make sure to bring all originals. Something I did not have was an extra photocopy of my passport, birth certificate, and wedding license. I told the woman I was unaware that they wouldn't already have it, and I did not make these copies. I asked where that was written and she basically ignored the question, but explained about how the e-file has nothing in it (they can access your file if absolutely required, but they have to download it). I sat back down for about 10 mins while she made the extra copies and scrutinized the papers. After that she scanned my finger prints on both hands. Also bring the latest tax return from the US citizen, she asked for this, but I had forgotten it. Also don't forget the largest size express post mailer (with the extra signature required $1.50 extra!)
Then I was sent back out to wait for the interview part. The wait was maybe 5 or 10 more mins. For this part you go to a little cubicle and you can close the door for privacy. I was interviewed by a gentleman who was very upbeat and friendly. This put me at ease. He asked pretty simple questions others have listed: job situation, how we met, where my husband and I live, about my job,if we'd ever had trouble with the law, or had any previous marriages or children, nothing too complicated. So that is when he asked me when I planned to move, since you must activate the visa within 6 months. He told me everything looks great and that he would grant the visa that day if I wanted to move right away. Since I wasn't going right now he gave me a sheet with the address to send in my passport so it will only be stamped when absolutely needed for the entry.
So all in all, I am thrilled. It is a huge weight off my shoulders. I am proud that we did it without an expensive lawyer, and that there is no immediate pressure to move right away, or in six months. we could wait up to a year if needed, although I hope it wont be! I hope this review helps ease some of the nerves you have if you have an upcoming interview. All the people I encountered were really kind.javascript:emoticon(' ')
| |
|
Consulate / USCIS Member Review #6528