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| Moscow, Russia |  Review on June 5, 2011: |
Blake and Jeanie
Rating:  | Review Topic: IR-1/CR-1 Visa
My interview was scheduled for June 1st at 8AM. I got there at about 7:30 and got in line, which almost immediately passed through the security checkpoint and was shown inside the embassy. Btw, the outside of the embassy was rather crowded with large groups of people (students, maybe?) standing all around the entrance and it wasn't clear to me where to go right away. The line for IVs was forming right in front of the security booth, along the metal railing. After going inside, there was a spot where people could leave their cellphones and other items not aloud at the embassy. I didn't have any 'cause I wasn't sure there was a place like that. After that, walk to the waiting hall to sit down. At this point it is best that everybody agrees on who came after who, 'cause the initial document check will be done according to that order. So, step 1- an assistant sees people one at a time, takes the invites, and checks their files, makes sure the docs are there. He asked me whether I brought my old passport, he said there was a note in my file stating that they might want to look at it. I did bring it, but nobody asked for it after all. File's checked- you go sit back down and wait. Step 2- names are called over the intercom and people are seen by another assistant. File is checked again. At this time, if any of the originals weren't submitted, the CO assistance will ask for them. Then, you are sent to another window for fingerprinting. Do the prints, come back to the assistant, hand in your passport. The assistant asks you to sit down again and wait for your interview. Step 3- the interview! Those with kids get interviewed first. I was about 6th in line. The actual interview lasted about 20 seconds (really). I was asked only these questions: Who filed the petition? When did you meet your husband? When did you decide to get married? What does your husband do for living? That's it! They didn't look at ANY of the evidence I brought with me (I had a large gym bag full of it). That's all! Make sure you bring all the originals needed. Don't forget the DHL receipt. Be prepared for a long wait, and eat breakfast. Everything went very smoothly and the embassy staff was super nice. I gave the 4 stars to my experience because the wait was long. The CO said I'll have my passport back in a week. I can't believe it's almost over!
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Consulate / USCIS Member Review #7710