A Candle for Love - Interview FAQ

 


CONTENTS:

1)     Section 1 – Questions related to beneficiary’s interview.

2)     Section 2 – Questions related to fraud avoidance and visa denials.

3)     Section 3 – Questions related to Guangzhou Consulate and travel, flight, hotel.

 

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:
These are compilations and consolidations from other peoples questions and answers posted on the Candleforlove.com web page and other pages. You should read this FAQ with that in mind, because things change faster than this FAQ.

 

If the question or answer is familiar to you, thank you for your contribution.  In some cases, the original has been edited for this FAQ. These questions and answers are only related to the visa process for those petitions going through the US Consulate in Guangzhou. If you find something that does not seem correct, please email or post about it, that way this FAQ can be updated. Remember these questions and answers are based on other people’s opinions or experiences only.

 

WHERE TO GET FURTHER INFORMATION:

1)     This FAQ will contain common and frequent questions but may not have some information you need.  It is recommended that you look at the following CFL FAQs:

2)     http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=11293

a.      CFL Visa FAQ

b.      CFL DCF FAQ

c.      CFL P3 FAQ

d.      CFL P4 FAQ

e.      CFL Interview FAQ

f.       CFL Interview Questions FAQ

g.      CFL AOS FAQ

3)     CFL searchable database  (www.candleforlove.com)

4)     Visa Journey FAQ (http://www.visajourney.com/faq/k1faq.htm )


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Interview Frequently Asked Questions.

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Section One: General Questions on the Beneficiary’s Interview.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Q.1.1What is a FAQ?
Q.1.2 What and when is the Interview?
Q.1.3 Where is the Interview held?
Q.1.4 Will I be allowed in to the Interview?
Q.1.5 How long until we get an Interview?
Q.1.6 Where can I find sample interview questions?
Q.1.7 What should we bring to the interview?
Q.1.8 How should I prepare all the paperwork?
Q.1.9 Where can I get papers notarized in Guangzhou?
Q.1.10 Is a notarized copy of the petitioner’s passport required?
Q.1.11 What can I expect at the American Citizen Hour?

Q.1.12What is a description of what happens on the interview day?

Q.1.13I have heard that the interview is very short, 5 minutes?

Q.1.14I have heard that the interview is determined beforehand?

Q.1.15What are some issues the VOs are looking for, that could raise a question?
Q.1.16 General Interview experiences and advice.
Q.1.17 What are some comments directly from the VO about the interview?

Q.1.18Most Important / Common / Frequent Items?

Q.1.19DO you have examples of interviews?
Q.1.20 What's next after the Interview?
Q.1.21 What if my child is following me?
Q.1.22 We got the visa, how long is it good for?
Q.1.23 Where can I get information on the pickup procedures?
Q.1.24 What should I check on the visa?


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Section two: Questions related to fraud avoidance and visa denials

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Q.2.1What are some issues the VO is looking for, which might prompt questions?
Q.2.2 Third Party issues?
Q.2.3 Previous Marriage?
Q.2.4 Beneficiary does not speak English well?
Q.2.5 Few number of visits by petitioner?
Q.2.6 Document issues?
Q.2.7 Fraud?
Q.2.8 How can I guard against the perception of fraud?
Q.2.9 Will sending money be considered evidence or fraud?
Q.2.10 We did not get the visa, they want additional evidence!
Q.2.11 We got a blue/pink slip?
Q.2.12 Video tape?
Q.2.13 Where can I get a video tape made in Guangzhou?
Q.2.14 What should we do in the video tape?
Q.2.15 Will the VO accept a video tape during the interview?
Q.2.16 When can we submit overcome evidence?
Q.2.17 Do you have examples of mulitpledenials ?
Q.2.18 Do you have example interviews of denials?
Q.2.19 Where can I view the denial code?

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Section three: Questions related to Guangzhou Consulate and travel, flight, hotel

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Q.3.1 Guangzhou Consulate ?
Q.3.2 Where can I get information on GUZ?
Q.3.3 Where should we stay, Hotel Information?
Q.3.4 Where is the Guangzhou Consulate? Map?
Q.3.5 Flight Information?
Q.3.6 Checking domestic flights in China?
Q.3.7 Guangzhou Airport?
Q.3.8 Methods of travel to Guangzhou from Hong Kong?
Q.3.9 Once we get the visa, can we travel through HK to the US?
Q.3.10 How do we ship items from China to the US?
Q.3.11 How can I send money to China , to US ?
Q.3.12 Can I get my SOs passport notarized in china for tax purposes (IRS ITIN, W-7)?
Q.3.13 I have an ITIN for my wife for tax year 2004, do I need to file a new ITIN for filing tax year 2005?

 

 

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The Answers.
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Section One: General Questions

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 (28 November 2004)

Q.1.1 What is a FAQ?

A.1.1.1
FAQ is an acronym for Frequently Asked Questions.

A.1.1.2
When there is a FAQ available on a web site or forum, it is there to help people who are new to the subject get a basic level of understanding by answering the questions that are frequently asked. It is considered common courtesy in the on line world to read the FAQ before posting your question as it may already have the answer you need, or it might help you to formulate your questions so that someone else can more easily help you when you ask them.

A.1.1.3
There are lots of acronyms and abbreviations used on the forum. Please read the FAQ for the definitions of the commonly used ones.

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(Edited 3 January 2005)

Q.1.2 What and when is the Interview?

A.1.2.1
The Chinese beneficiary (fiancée/Wife/Husband) will go to an interview at the U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou, as part of the process for their visa.

A.1.3.1
The Interview occurs after receiving and returning the P3 documents, and receiving the P4 documents.



----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 14 July 2005)

Q.1.3 Where is the Interview held?

A.1.3.1
The U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou.

A.1.3.2

Even if you are DCF, and filed at one of the consulates outside of Guangzhou, you will have an interview at Guangzhou

 


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(Edited 8 December 2005)

Q.1.4 Will I be allowed in to the Interview?

A.1.4.1
No.

However some CFL members think you should consider being outside the Consulate for mental support, and to deal with any difficulties should they occur.

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(Edited 4 June 2006)

Q.1.5 How long until we get an Interview?

A.1.5.1
Currently based on CFL member time lines it is an average of 90 days from returning the P3 documents (see P3 FAQ) to the Interview, for K# visas.

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(Edited 6 July 2005)

Q.1.6 Where can I find sample interview questions?

A.1.6.1

 

CFL Interview FAQs:

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=11293


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(Edited 13 July 2005)

Q.1.7 What should we bring to the interview?

A.1.7.1

 

CONSULATE WEBSITE:

 

 

K1, K3:


http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzho...u/iv/kvfaq.html

 

P3 DOCUMENTS:

The Instruction packet in Guangzhou includes:

1.       Instruction packet (Packet 3) letter in English

2.       Instruction packet (Packet 3) letter in Chinese

3.       Instruction packet (Packet 3) supplemental information sheet

4.       Application for immigrant visa and alien registration (DS-230 part I)

5.       Instructions for immigrant visa applicants (OF-169)

6.       Notice to all nonimmigrant visa applicants (list of CITIC Bank)

7.       Evidence which may be presented to meet the public charge provisions of the law (OF-167)

P4 DOCUMENTS:

The Appointment packet includes:

1.       Appointment letter in English

2.       K-1 appointment (packet 4) letter

3.       Appointment letter for immigrant visa applications (OF-171)

4.       Important notice in Chinese (for photograph specifications)

5.       Supplemental form GNI-2

6.       Certification of legal capacity and intent to marry

7.       Family composition sheet (GIV-24)

8.       Medical examination instructions (GIV-8)

9.       Medical examination for immigrant or refugee applicant (DS-2053)

10.   Chest X-ray and classification worksheet (DS-3024)

11.   Vaccination documentation worksheet (DS-3025)

12.   Medical history and physical examination worksheet (DS-3026)

13.   Nonimmigrant visa application (DS-156) and nonimmigrant visa application for applicants 16 years and older (DS-157) (two sets)

14.   Nonimmigrant fiancé(e) visa application (DS-156K)

 ITEMS TO BRING:

1. Forms in the appointment packet (P4).  [ See P3 and P4 documents above ]
2. Chinese passport.
3. Application fee receipt (The one paid to the CITIC Bank)
4. Four visa photos attached to forms DS-156
5. Notarial birth certificate. (Don't forget the notarized in English translations!). 

6. Notarial marital status certificate. (Don't forget the notarized in English translations!).  If divorced before, previous divorce certificates for each marriage are required. If any child from previous marriage will also apply for visa, a divorce decree showing the child's custody is needed.
7. Police Certificates (Don't forget the notarized in English translations!).  required from each visa applicant aged 16 or over issued by his/her local municipal notary office where he/she has resided for at least six months since attaining the age of sixteen. Police certificates are also required from all other countries where the applicant has resided for at least one year.
8. Medical report (including x-ray)
9. Affidavit of Support - I-134 and a copy of the most recent year tax returns from the petitioner.
10. Relationship evidence, such as correspondence and photos taken together to prove the claimed relationship to the petitioner

Translations: Police certificates from other countries not in English, or in the official language of the country must be accompanied by certified English translations. Translations must be certified by a competent translator and sworn to before a notary public.

A.1.7.2

CONSULATE WEBSITE:

 

 

CR1:

http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzhou/iv/gzfaqs.html

P3 DOCUMENTS: 

The Instruction packet in Guangzhou includes:

1.       Instruction packet (Packet 3) letter in English

2.       Instruction packet (Packet 3) letter in Chinese

3.       Instruction packet (Packet 3) supplemental information sheet

4.       Application for immigrant visa and alien registration (DS-230 part I)

5.       Instructions for immigrant visa applicants (OF-169)

6.       Photograph specifications (GIV-1)

7.       Important notice

8.       Evidence which may be presented to meet the public charge provisions of the law (OF-167)

9.       Affidavit of Support (I-864)

P4 DOCUMENTS:

The Appointment packet includes:

1.       Appointment letter (packet 4) in English

2.       Appointment letter (packet 4) in Chinese

3.       Appointment letter for immigrant visa applications (OF-171)

4.       Application for immigrant visa and alien registration (DS-230 part II)

5.       Family composition sheet (GIV-24)

6.       Medical examination instructions (GIV-8)

7.       Medical examination for immigrant or refugee applicant (DS-2053)

8.       Chest X-ray and classification worksheet (DS-3024)

9.       Vaccination documentation workseet (DS-3025)

10.   Medical history and physical examination workseet (DS-3026)

11.   Important notice to immigrant visa applicants concerning vaccination requirements

ITEMS TO BRING:

 

1. Forms in the appointment packet (P4).  [ See P3 and P4 documents above ]
2. Chinese passport.
3. Application fee receipt (The one paid to the CITIC Bank)
4. Four visa photos attached to forms DS-156
5. Notarial birth certificate. (Don't forget the notarized in English translations!). 

6. Notarial marital status certificate. (Don't forget the notarized in English translations!).  If divorced before, previous divorce certificates for each marriage are required. If any child from previous marriage will also apply for visa, a divorce decree showing the child's custody is needed.
7. Police Certificates (Don't forget the notarized in English translations!).  required from each visa applicant aged 16 or over issued by his/her local municipal notary office where he/she has resided for at least six months since attaining the age of sixteen. Police certificates are also required from all other countries where the applicant has resided for at least one year.
8. Medical report (including x-ray)
9.
Affidavit of Support - I-864 and copies of the three most recent years' tax returns if not already submitted to NVC.

10.Relationship evidence, such as correspondence and photos taken together to prove the claimed relationship to the petitioner

Translations: Police certificates from other countries not in English, or in the official language of the country must be accompanied by certified English translations. Translations must be certified by a competent translator and sworn to before a notary public.

A.1.7.3

You might consider:

1) Make copies before you fill any out (so you always have blanks—some have had to track down a form in Guangzhou)

2) Make copies prior to signing and dating (this allows you to get another notarized version in case it is needed)

3) Make copies after signing, notarized, etc (in case they'll take a copy and you can keep the notarized one)

 

 

A.1.7.4

 

KITCHEN SINK LIST:

 

This is a personal recommendation based on interview and overcome, and more than the minimum required information to bring.   Don’t confuse this recommend with guidelines stated by GUZ or other federal agencies. The VO is able to ask for anything.  This list seeks to have as much as possible available.


1. Chinese beneficiary

 

A.      Proof for Interview appointment:

   - Your P4 appointment letter (must have to gain entry to consulate).

   - Passport (must have to gain entry to consulate)

    - Your P4 appointment letter (they are not likely to let you in without this).
    - Receipt for the paid immigration fee
    - Copy of the Notice of Action (NOA2 you received)

    - Original Medical forms and exam results in sealed envelope

    - Medical x-ray

 

  B. Dependents:

  If there are dependent children immigrating to the US with the Chinese beneficiary:

    - Passport (or can be on Chinese beneficiary)

    - Birth certificate

    - Medical exam

    - Passport photos, at least four (4). Print name on back.

    - Police certificate, if over 16 years old

    - Proof of full custody

    - Death certificate (if deceased)  

    - Additional forms/documents as required

 C. "Ex" Spouse (as applicable)
    - Proof of residency (if divorced)
    - Death certificate (if deceased)

 

  D. P3 paperwork:

  Items sent back to GUZ:   

    - Copy of the DS-230 (K1 only part I)
    - Copy of the OF-169 (Checklist from P-3)

    - Copy of supplemental info sheet
 Items collected:     

    - Current Passport of Chinese beneficiary

    - Current birth certificate of Chinese beneficiary with Notarized English Translation; plus a copy

    - Police Certificate(s) for Chinese beneficiary with Notarized English Translations; plus a copy

    - Certified copy of Court or prison records for Chinese beneficiary (if applicable) with Notarized English Translations; plus a copy
    - Certified copy of military records of Chinese beneficiary, if application / available; plus a copy

    - Passport Photos of Chinese beneficiary. At least four (4).  Print name on back.

    - Martial certificate (single cert or marriage cert) of Chinese beneficiary with Notarized English Translation; plus a copy
    - Divorce certificates (if any) of Chinese beneficiary with Notarized English Translation; plus a copy

  E. P4 paperwork:

    - P4 Appointment letter

    - OF-171, Information Sheet

    - Certification of Legal Capacity and Intent to Marry , DO NOT SIGN

    - Original DS-156, Visa Application,  in English and Chinese, fill out in duplicate.
    - Original DS-156K, Visa Application for dependents,  in English and Chinese, fill out in duplicate but DO NOT SIGN
    - Original DS-157, Supplement Visa Application, in English and Chinese, fill out in duplicate (no signature required)

    - Original GIV-24, family composition sheet

    - Original GNI-2, supplemental form for K1

 

  F. Miscellaneous:

    - Wear your engagement / wedding ring (if available)

 

 

2. U.S. Petitioner

 

  A. Regarding self

    - Copies of petitioner’s passport with visas indicating dates of visit(s), including at least one visit within the last 2 years.  If able, certify this.
    - Divorce certificates for petitioner (if any); plus a copy
    - Letter of Intent to marry in English (notarized and updated by petitioner for interview); plus a copy

 

  B. "Ex" spouse and/or Dependents
    - Proof of residency (if divorced)
    - Death certificate (if deceased)

 

  C. Financial documents:

   a. Two original, signed, and notarized I-134/I-864 with supporting financial documents including
        i. 3 years of tax records reflecting (Form 1040 and W2s – guideline is income 125% of the poverty level)
        ii. letter from employer regarding current employment and wage/salary)

        iii. if your income is less than 125% of poverty level, bring copies of bank statements/ stock/bonds, etc.
    b. If using a joint sponsor, two original, signed, and notarized I-134/I-864 with the supporting financial documents.

 

  D. Miscellaneous

      - Video for communication if in doubt

 

3. Relationship proof:

    a. Informal pictures of the two of you together from your visits; pictures with family members are better.

    b. Copies of phone records between the two of you (if available)
    c. Originals of letters w/postmarked envelopes (if available)
    d. Copies of emails reflecting communication over a period of time.  Review the content of the email.

    e. Proof of joint ownership, bank accounts, etc.

4. Copy of Any other documents submitted

    - I-129F application and all submitted paperwork

    - I-130 application and all submitted paperwork as part of CR1 process

    - Copies of documents notarized or certified; in case they’ll take the copy instead of original

   

5. Blank forms

    - Some have been caught off guard at the medical exam with an expired or incorrectly filled out form and have to go chase one down.

 

 

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(Edited 6 July 2005)

Q.1.8 How should I prepare all the paperwork?

 

A.1.8.1

1.       Because there is a glass separating the VO from the applicant with a trough to pass thru paperwork, similar to the teller windows at many U.S. banks. Something rigid like a 1" or larger ring binder will not pass thru.

2.       There is only about 5 minutes allotted for each interview. It would take to much time for my SO to find and remove the specific document from the large binder.

 

A.1.8.2

We have decided to use 9 opaque plastic envelopes.

Each is color coded, labeled, and flexible enough to pass thru the window. Envelope contents:
#1 FORMS: All 797's (originals), Copy of original 129 package, all forms.
#2 SO's Doc?s Translated and notarized Chinese birth, marriage and police docs.
#3 My certified divorce papers from prior marriage.
#4 I-134, tax returns 2002-2004, letters from bank, bank statements 1/2004 to present, ING direct and Emigrant direct statements. Certified company ownershipdoc's, Certified company profit/loss statement, Certified statement of assets, Real estate purchase documents.
#5 Phone records, letters, Emails, Yahoo Chat, MSN Chat.
#6 Wedding pictures
#7 Pictures with family and friends
#8 All boarding passes and receipts from prior visits.
#9 Video tape of conversation between SO and myself

 

 

A.1.8.3
I made up the documentation folder for my sister-in-law?s interview using a see-through plastic, backpack-style holder which had 5 plastic letter folders inside which were labeled and easy to extract singly as required.

Contents:
(3) spiral bound, computer produced, photo albums with captions, one for each visit to China, pictures of "together" and family.
Green folder: I-134 with all supporting documents bound with acco-fastener at top.
....................Some additional financial docs: several paycheck stubs, utility bills, cable bills.
Blue folder: Affidavit of Communication (because she can't speak good English).Notarized
..................History of Relationship.
Notarized
..................Certified copy of Petitioner's complete passport.
Red folder: Long distance phone bills/records.
.................Airplane boarding passes, ticket stubs from China trips.
.................Sample of e-mails from her.
.................Sample of e-mails from him.
.................Sample logs from MSN chats.
.................Sample e-card printouts.
.................Postcards/Letters sent to each other including the envelopes.
Yellow folder: Copy of original I-129 fiancée visa application, including original documents: birth certificates, divorce certificates, etc.
Pink folder: Copies of submitted P3 and P4 documents.

 

A.1.8.4

 

K1

Folder # 1 (Eligibility proof)
1) Beneficiary Passport pictures (name on back)
2) Beneficiary Passport (or keep safely on person)
3) Receipt for visa payment (if not put in medical envelope)
4) Receipt for medical exam payment (if not put in medical envelope)
5) Petitioner updated "Intent to Marry", notarized.
6) I-797 , Notice of Action (NOA2)


Folder # 2 (VO requests, proof of relationship)
1) Copy of US Petitioner?s passport (or notarized copy)
2) P4 appointment letter (have a copy; usually put in medical, but asked for sometimes)
3) Photos ( be prepared if asked for early or recent; have best prepared, particularly something with familiy).
4) Emails Phone records, letters, , etc (same comment)

Folder # 3 (proof of financial support)
1) Employment letter
2) I-134 , notarized
3) Tax returns or transcripts, and W2s
4) If you put Assets on I-134, bank letter and other supporting docs)

Folder # 4 (proof of communication and past trips)
1) Past boarding passes, itinerary
2) Anything from trip, other than photos

Folder # 5 (proof of filing P3 and P4)
1) Copies of P3 submitted back
2) Copies of P4 submitted back

Folder # 6 (proof of initial filing)
1) Copies of petition items filed to Visa Center


FOR K2:

Folder # 7 (dependent items)
1) Passport
2) Birth certificate
3) Passport Pictures (name on back)
4) Police Certificate, if over 16
5) Proof of full custody
6) Additional forms/documents as needed


A.1.8.5

 

We prepared a three folder approach:

1)photos taped to sheet of paper with date above each picture. About 12 pictures, four from each of three trips.

2) Financials all in one folder. If anything was asked, she was to give the entire folder so she did not pull out the wrong item. [I saw another member (whose interview is later) had a folder the same way but with tabs at the bottom to show name of financial. I would do it over like this. ]

3) Communication. A few emails, all phone logs, one IM chatting in a day.

 

Then we had two extra envelopes with lots of extras for odd request or for overcome evidence.

 

A.1.8.6

We used 4 clear plastic envelopes with the description of contents written on the outside in English and Chinese:

1 - 1st folder, Proof for Interview(morning check-in), contained the medical envelope, our passports, and her P4 letter.

2 - 2nd folder, Relationship Evidence, contained our two best pictures(one of just us, the other with family) on the top so could easily be seen by VO, sample emails, MSN chat logs, postmarked letter, and a CD containing all of the chats and emails.

3 - 3rd folder, Financial Documents.

4 - 4th folder, Extra Relationship Evidence, contained itineraries, boarding passes, ticket stubs from traveling China, etc.

Additionally, my wife had a photo album packed full of picture in case the other two were insufficient. Basically, I just followed the advice from CFL FAQs and applied the things that seemed most comfortable for my wife.

 

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(Edited 6 July 2005)


Q.1.9 Where can I get papers notarized in Guangzhou?

A.9.1

WHEN IN CHINA GO TO ANY U.S. EMBASSY/CONSULATE WITH YOUR FINACEE. WALK INTO THE EMBASSY/CONSULATE AND ASK TO SEE THE NOTARY THERE. NOTARY SERVICE IS FREE TO U.S CITIZENS.   HAVE THE NOTARY PREPARE A STATEMENT SUCH AS
"BEFORE ME APPEARED ON THIS DAY DATE/TIME ETC(WHATEVER EMBASSY YOU ARE AT)MR, SO AND SO OF (YOUR ADDRESS AS EVIDENCED BY YOUR PASSPORT AND MS. SO AND SO AS EVIDIENCED BY HER CHINESE I.D. CARD OR PASSPORT HAVE THEM PUT YOU PASSPORT NUMBER DOWN AND YOUR FIANCEE' I.D. NUMBER DOWN AS PROOF OF YOUR I.D. HAVE THE NOTORY SIGN AND STAMP THIS WITH THE SEAL.THE PAPER THEY USE SHOULD BE THE EMBASSY LETTER HEAD. GET 2 ISSUES THERE FREE IF NOT PAY THE NOTARY FEE EVEN.   This notarization is from the U. S. government and not subject to question.

 

A.9.2

IF the notarization is for something required by the government, such as Affidavid of Support, then there should be no charge. At least they didn't charge me at GZ to notarize my I-864.

A.9.3

The I-864 was also notarized free for me. The woman told me "this is a free of charge service",

 

A.9.4

I showed my passport, my wife had to show her identity card, our marriage notarial certificate, and purpose for her to enter the Consulate. Not a problem which surprised me, because I thought Chinese citizens were not permitted to enter the Consulate grounds. We had to leave our "stuff" in this building (cell phones, laptops, purse, water, keys, etc.) The guards will give you a plastic number tag to retrieve your belongings on the way out. They were both friendly and courteous.

When you enter, there is a guard behind a glass cage, Again show ID and state why you are here, for us it was to see the American Citizens Service (ACS) office on the second floor. This guard was more demanding on my wife for ID, but we made it through without a problem. You will receive a visitor's badge from the guard. You must take the steps to the second floor. We had to get a document notarized that required both of our signatures and had to be done by a US notary, so we used the Consulate.

A word of caution on notarization be prepared. My wife did not have her passport because it will expire shortly and the Chinese government has this while her new passport in is being processed. After some discussion the ACS officer agreed that her ID card and copy of her passport was sufficient However, the real problem was with my ID and not hers. I own a house and rent (closer to work) and the document to be notarized had my house address on it. The Consulate officer wanted to see an identification card with my signature and my home address. All I had was my driver's license which has the address of the townhouse I rent and he would not accept this. I countered that my passport has my house address and he could look this up on the computer. He said this was not sufficient. After much more discussion the officer spoke to someone else, then we finally got the document notarized. I was becoming upset during this time, but the Consulate officer was patient and finally did help us out.


A.9.5

Editor: With the new location, the above comment to ‘second floor’ will likely be not correct.  But the story is worth noting.

 

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(Edited 6 July 2005)


Q.1.10 Is a notarized copy of the petitioner’s passport required?

A.1.10.1

If requested "during the interview", a copy is all that is expected by the VO... BUT !!! The VO can request a notarized copy, and sometimes does when any type of denial occurs (it's on the denial slip as a checkbox request).

At one time, CFLers were saying this was a 'new requirement'.. but what I think was going on was a few denials close together were all experiencing a request for the notarized copy and this got interpreted as 'now required'. Also, there could of been a shift in attitude in asking for this in denials (just as another CFLer said the employment letter was the 'request of the day' based on talking to many interviewed).

The safeguard issue is, if you just go ahead and give a notarized copy, then your SO has it in case of a denial request for it.

 

A.1.10.2

She was yellow-slipped with a request for a notarized copy of my passport

 

A.1.10.3

The first thing I did was march into the Citizen Services section to ask why a notarized copy of my passport was required when they had the ACTUAL passport available for inspection.

The gentleman was kind enough to make a notarized color copy of my passport, gratis!   There ARE nice people at the consulate after all. The notarized copy of my passport was similar to the notarized translation of our marriage certificate; all pages copied, then bound together, and the notarial script was put on the cover.

So long story short; you should not have to get each individual page notarized if the copied pages are bound by the notary, with the outside cover being notarized regarding the contents within. All my multi-page docs that were notarized were done in China. I can see how a notary in the USA would try to pad the fees by telling you that each page must be done individually.

 

A.10.4

I supplied the main page with my photo and info numbers etc and the Chinese visa page when I did the 129.. Here’s what I did. Went to my computer and typed in word //This is a true copy of passport number xxxxx belonging to Mr. xxx-xx certified on // Date line //by line. I moved that down on the page to about a quarter of the way from the bottom and printed it out..; Now you have a blank page with that statement on it. Now turn on your color scanner and scan the passport thru to your printer (make sure you put the blank page with the statement on it in the printer so it prints the passport on that side with the statement and you are ready to go. Take to the notary and show them your passport and have them certify if you do the copying should save you a heck of a lot.. But why pay at all go to your bank as you are a customer they should notarize for free

 

A.1.10.5

I certified my passport differently. I did it the expensive way. I had all pages of my passport copied by the notary, including the blank pages. I had the blank pages copied because the notary writes:

I herby ____Notary_name___ certify that ___Me____ presented before me an original passport on ___Date___. Attached is a true, accurate, and complete copy of the original with a notary seal.

Then he stamped and sealed each page. He and I only signed the top sheet. He also put a copy of my driver's license on the first page.

Technically the notary can't certify the copy if you make the copy of the passport. He can make a
jurat for you which states you certify the copy and the notary certifies your signature. You may be able to find a notary who will still certify the copy you made yourself.

 

A.1.10.6

I made copies of the title page and my visa to China. At the top I put the title "TRUE COPY OF PASSPORT AND VISA FOR "MY NAME""

On the last page I inserted the statement "I CERTIFY THAT THIS IS A TRUE COPY OF THE PASSPORT AND VISA BELONGING TO "MY NAME." SWORN BEFORE ME ON ________________."

___________________________ NOTARY PUBLIC

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 6 July 2005)


Q.1.11 What can I expect at the American Citizen Hour?

 

A.1.11.1

Hi, I was just at the GUZ today (2-10-06) for the "American Citizens Hour" which is supposed to be at 3:00 pm on Fridays according to the GUZ's website. I arrived there at 2:40 pm and was told it had started at 2:30 and I would not be allowed in.

I was then given an information sheet. Under the heading: "Immigrant Visa Petitioner Hour" the sheet states: "U.S. Citizen Petitioners who would like to speak to an Immigrant Visa officer may attend an Information Session on Fridays at 2:30 p.m. The aim of these sessions is to address frequently asked questions and provide you with a better understanding of the process."

Then, on the other side of the paper under the heading "Nonimmigrant Visas" the sheet states: "American Citizen Hour The Consulate hosts an "American citizen hour" Mondays from 3 to 4 pm in the NIV waiting room. In addition, American citizens will not be permitted to accompany NIV applicants to their interview and would instead be encouraged to attend the Monday afternoon American citizen hour."

 

A.1.11.2

American Citizen's Hour. They have changed the format to allow American Citizens the ability to talk about their cases.  He thoroughly looked at the notes and told me that our the consulate was o.k. with the financial side of our case and from what he could tell there was a issue with a third party sending a letter.

 

A.1.11.3

Helloall, just returned from China. I went to GZ for the Friday open forum meeting 2:30 at the Embassy. There is a new procedure. They are no longer conducting an open forum meeteng. Now when you go through security you take a number and wait. Each person is called in turn and meets with a VO at the same windows our SO's go to for their interviews. From what I understand the VO's are answering case specific questions concerning their cases. The VO I talked to was very nice and helpful, I hope my SO gets him Dec 30 for her interview.

 

A.1.11.4

the American Citizen Services
phone # from the US - 011 8620 8121 8000

 

A.1.11.5

More info:

 

One blue slip and one Red  (May 16, 2006)

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=17963

 

ACH Yesterday (Apr 30, 2006)

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=16469

 

ACH on Friday  (Apr 10, 2006)

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=17162

 

My ACH Experience on Friday (Mar 10, 2006)

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=17651

 

American Citizen Hour  (Feb 9, 2006)

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=15788

 

GUZ Format, Change in Procedures  (Dec 8, 2005)

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=14473

 

 

 

 

 

--- OBSOLETE COMMENTS REGARDING THE ACH: PRIOR TO ACH FORMAT CHANGE ---

 

A.

If the petitioner goes to Guangzhou for the interview, they should go to the ACH and sign in.  Then GUZ will know they are there.

 

A.

As of February 1, 2005, the session will be held on Fridays at 3:00 p.m.   Citizen hour is 10am everyday. Questions related to immigration visa can only be asked Fridays 3pm.

A.

If you plan to attend the American Citizens Hour, you must pick up another plastic number tag (yellow) here (different than baggage receipt tag). I did not, and had to return to get this. Kind of awkward because on exiting you must talk through the window and cannot enter again from the inside.

Next, I attended the American Citizens hour at 3:00pm (Fridays), my wife could not attend being a Chinese citizen. So we walked back to he screening building picked up our "stuff", she left the Consulate and I got the yellow plastic number tag required to attend the Citizend hour. The room where the meeting is held is on the right side of the main building on the first floor, there is only one door. When you enter a guard will not permit you to enter the room without the tag.

The room has seats for 40 to 60 people. On the right is door to a room where Chinese gitizens go to receive some type of passport stamp ??? I noticed several people entering and exiting during the session.


A.

I also attended the citizen hour the day before the interview and spoke with a visa officer. There is not much useful information to be gathered here, but if you are going to be in Guangzhou anytime prior to the interview I suggest you attend at least just to sign in. They record your name. Fiancée name and GUZ case number and they will know that you attended during the interview.

The VO that answered questions during the session I attended said the most important things to her were, how many visits to china the petitioner has made (documented by your passport or notarized copy of passport), a personal letter from the petitioner and pictures.

The VO told me they very rarely ask for a video and they will not accept a video on the day of the interview even if you have one and they want one. is only if you are returning with a blue slip will they even consider a video (vhs format) and the last item of importance is your fiancée attitude the VO’s look for confidence and speed in answers and getting information.


A.

At 3:20pm an AmericaVisa Officer (VO) arrived to begun the session. Early thirties, very nice and open. He worked in ACS and has been a VO for only 18 months and he was not as experienced as he would like to be. The room was full, primarily with Chinese born US citizens. Including myself, I counted six " US born" citizens.

THe VO spent the next 10 minutes going over family visa basics, nothing new to CFLers. Next he opened up the floor to general questions, he would not answer specific questions. You can guess what happened next !!!! Only specific questions where ask !!! Every Chinese naturalized citizen (I saw and heard them all) had a yellow slip for a family member. The session denigrated into a free for all, everyone trying to talk to the VO at the same time about their yellow slip.


However, I did make a few observations during this time:
1. Most (with a few exceptions) did not understand the process correctly, specifically the sufficient proof for an ongoing relationship.
2. The VO officer was reluctant to spell out what additional proof is required, except in one case where the wife could not read/speak English but the husband could speak Chinese. Prepare a video tape of the two speaking in Chinese.
3. The VO must reply to overcome evidence with 24 hours. The VO stated they were mandated to do this. And in most cases there will be no second interview, either an approval or another bluse slip (with an accompanying yellow, green, whatever color).
4. The new consulate building(s) will be open on June 25, 2005 and this should help with crowding and space limitations for visa interviews.
5. With a couple of yellow slips that this VO observed, in his opinion, the interviewing VO had made a mistake.


My questions and the
VO answers (nothing ground-breaking here):
1. Since a name-check is done at the NVC for CR-1/IR-1 why is the name check required at GZ (I wanted elaboration of the name check process)?
GZ requests it's own name check using several sources. I did not receive any additional information.
2. Is K1/K3 visa interviews given preference (timing on who gets scheduled first) over CR-1/IR-1?
He believes so, but does not know why.
3. If a VO suspects fraud during an interview, why do most VOs not review "all" the supporting documents that the applicant brings (I said that I know of several case were this occured and the interviewing VO would not look at the documents).
He stated that is should not happen and he personally reviews supporting documents if he has doubts. However, he did state the the VOs are under pressure to complete a certain number of interviews each day.
4. If interviews last approximately 5 minutes, why cannot US spouses/fiancees be present to prove the ongoing relatioship question?
It is not the policy at GZ to do this, space limitations, and prior problems when this was done in the past.
5. For him personally how many family based interviews does he average each day?
He stated that the Consulate wants 25 per day, but the VOs, including himself, are handling about 20 per day. This is another reason why the interviews are so short. In addtion, each VO must also review overcome documents from their prior yellow slips within 24 hours.
6. His thoughts if the Consulate will speed-up the process, and if so by how much?
Yes, this is the plan with the opening of the new Consulate, but no definite estimate of projected time reduction in case processing at GZ.     Meeting ended at 4:30pm.

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 24 July 2006)


Q.1.12 What is a description of what happens on the interview day?

 

A.1.12.1

Interview by itself takes only a few minutes in average, however the applicant has to go through quite a few steps to reach that biggest milestone. ("You" below means the visa applicant)

Step 1 Line up in front of consulate building.
There are two sections, the left hand side is for immigrant visa applicants. It is difficult to predict in which order the security guard let people into the consulate building, and it doesn't matter very much how early you get into the building either.

Step 2 Show security officer appointment letter and passport (bio-info page), receive a number card (the number here means nothing) and follow escalator to 4th floor.

Step 3 Go through first security check, follow escalator to 5th floor.
There are two lines here. The line on the left is for immigrant visa. This is a simple check. At this point you will have to leave behind any food or drinks. If you are in need of a restroom urgently, should find one now. Because there is no restroom beyond this point until you enter the interview hall and it could be over 20 minutes.

Step 4 Show passport and appointment letter again to the guard at the entrance of 5th floor. Hand over your number card. Line up at the hallway for final security check.
Two lines again, immigrant visa on the left. As you are appoaching the front, some consulate worker will come collect your appointment letter. (I think this is for the purpose of pulling out those files for which applicant has arrived the interview hall.)

Step 5 Through final security check. Enter and wait in the interview hall.
If you have a mobile phone with you, it will be kept here and you will be handed a small plastic number plate, so you can get your phone back on your way out after the interview.

Step 6 You name be called, and you are requested to go to certain window. Hand over interview paperwork. Be asked a few questions and be given a number slip (Keep the slip and memorize this 4 digit number for the whole morning). Some applicant will be given a slip for paying needed application fee.
You will be requested to tear open the envelop sealed by doctors at the hospital. Hand over all the document to this GUZ Chinese employee. If certain document has been left out the envelop or if you want to replace some documents, you may re-arrange now. You will be asked a few questions, most likely related to previous overseas travel experience and your US visa history. The answer will be jotted onto a form. The 4 digit number is your ID from now on. The number sequence has no significance.

Step 6a (For applicants who were give fee slip/invoice) Pay application fee at window#14 (or whichever window you are told to)

Step 7 Name or 4 digit number be called, request to go to window#17 or #18 (window # could change in future), line up, show your number and your passport and appointment letter, get fingerprints scanned.

Step 8 Say Vow together with everyone in the hall.
This can happen anytime before your interview.

Step 9 Your 4 digit number is called. This is your interview!
Take a deep breath, relax and smile to you VO.

Congratulations! If you pass interview, you will be handed a pincky-orange slip with your appointment letter attached to it.

Now you can come out, pick up your mobile phone, and call your SO.

Don't forget to make arrangement for picking up your visa packet and passport through the post office. (You need cash)

-----------------
- I don't see anyone been requested to show X-ray film. Regret to carry it along.
- It seems to be OK using a non-transperant cloth sack for carrying your evidence material.
- There are two small LCD screens in the interview hall. They work together to show the latest 4 digit numbers been called (two numbers on each, with the latest one shown on top of the left hand side LCD).

 

A.1.12.2

Our letter stated an interview time of 8:00am.. Although many will have the same time.  We went to the interview lines about 7:30am. There are two lines: To the right was the non-immigrant and to the left was the immigrant line. Each one has a sign at the front of the line in both chinese and english.

I was surprised that not many were in line, maybe 40 people were in the immigrant line, which is the line you should get in.

Seems about 7:45 they started to let people in and checked the IDs and p4 letters outside once. We were inside the building working our way up floors by escalators. At the third floor they had someone checking IDs and P4 letters again. For whatever reason, which contradicts other's experience, they told us I could not go to the 4th floor. At that point I went back to the hotel.

XYZ proceeded up to the 5th floor. She mentioned that they took her phone and put it in a locked drawer, giving her the key. Also mentioned a security check point like walking through one in an airport.

Gave the P4 letter and waited [a long time] to be called by NAME to window # 20. She was close to the last one called to a window for check in.

She provided medical papers, passport and P4 letter. She received three papers to sign: "Intent to Marry" , DS-157, GNI-2... all three of which she had previously filled out and were put in the medical envelope.

Then she received a number (0767) and was told to go sit down. Then she was called by NUMBER to window # 30, showed her passport and number. Here she had biometric (fingerprint) done on each index finger. Then was told to sit again.

After everyone was done with biometric, all together they took an oath in chinese stating: Today, they will speak the truth. Then everyone sits again.

She was called as one of the first to window # 26 and was greeted by an african american female VO alone.. only suggesting that there was no translator there at the beginning.

 

A.1.21.3

Shestart walking toward the Visa Center before 7 am and saw around 200 people already there. Her appointment was for 7:15. They issue a tag for her to enter the building after looking at the appointment letter and passport. On the fifth floor they took the interview letter and told her to open the medical packet. Papers were separated and signed the three forms (which your SO has to sign there). Then they were sworn in.

In the waiting area everyone waited for there names to be called. This is when they will issue you a number (hers was 1021). When she was called she was about the 10th person to have her fingerprints done. The interviews started at around 9:40. The interview windows that were used was from 17 to 29. In the beginning there were only 4 windows open. Later on 3 more opened up. She saw one person at window 25 for close to a half an hour, that person received a blue slip . She saw about 4 to 5 blues given out while waiting for her turn. Even though she was near the beginning of the line for the fingerprints it didn't turn out that way for the interview. Since I have read that people were getting done at or before 10 am you can imagine what was going on in my mind when I didn't receive a call from her. She was the 37th person to be interviewed and many more behind her. It was now 11:00 am.

 

A.1.21.4

When we were there for our interview, an American man walked to the front of the line past everyone followed by a very obviously pregnant woman. They let both of them through. My assumption is he was allowed in with her, although I have no evidence for this (They walked through all the lines I could see until entering the building).


This was when you still picked up the visa the next day. The next day, he came by himself at the appointed time, and picked up the paper work without her (I saw him arrive then leave with the package). Perhaps there are exceptions made for this kind of case that you can ask about?

 

A.1.21.5

Your SO can be finish with the interview process as early as 10:00am or as late as 2:00pm

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 6 July 2005)

Q.1.13 I have heard that the interview is very short, 5 minutes?

 

A.1.13.1

In the VO's own words---When you bring your info in, it will sit on his desk until he takes the time to review EVERYTHING, he says he can not go home until the pile of cases on his desk is reviewed.

A.1.13.2

They are only allotted a certain amount of time to review the material before the interview. Then they only have a limited amount of time at the interview.

 

A.1.13.3

[Editor] The average interview time is fairly short and about five questions.  Although some have had close to 30 questions.  Please see the Interview Questions FAQ, sorted by number of questions…

 

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 22 July 2005)

Q.1.14 I have heard that the interview is determined beforehand?

 

A.1.14.1

I think it is at least pre-disposed. That is why I included more than the minimum material required for I-129. Thought was - this would predispose to a yes

 

A.1.14.2

We know that GZ pre-examines all of the documents before the interview, and there can be no doubt that they have already been influenced one way or another. I would never go to the point of saying that they have already made a decision, but without a doubt after previewing the paperwork, they are leaning one way or another.  You do not know what they are looking for and what they want to see when you go in.

 

A.1.14.3

It has been said before that the VO has already seen the paperwork and pretty much decided your outcome. If the paperwork is deficient, you will get questions about it or a yellow slip.   The main point of the interview is to meet face to face and see if she really does have some basic knowledge of you, the kind that she would know if you have been corresponding.

A.1.14.4

I read somewhere that all applicants are required to have an interview by law. This means to me that the decision is mostly made up before hand on the evidence they have. The only evidence they have is your application, so if you have only submitted what is required, you are establishing a need for them to ask for more evidence at the interview. The main purpose of the interview is for them to tell you what decision has been reached. I am sure in some cases where it is close to being approved, they can also use the interview to change their mind from a maybe, to a yes.

Definitely, their mind is 90 percent made up before the interview.

 

A.1.14.5

It would seem that during the "looks at every page of the file and reads some stuff stage" the VO decided what to probe about and didn't get the answers she was looking for right away (like within 5 minutes), so blue slip.

 

A.1.14.6

The following elements may cause predetermination of the blue slip:

1. The time gap between two marriages is too short.
2. If the applicant comes from the infamous Fujian province.
3. The applicant has a family member who entered US illegally before or the petitioner entered US illegally or through a CR1 or K1 (it shows on Family Composition Sheet)
4. The applicant had visa denial for non-immigrant visa before.
5. If the petitioner has some bad record with the Immigration or was convicted by the court before.
6. The VO can see the applicant from video cam when she is waiting for her name to be called. If the applicant's behavior causes some suspicion of the VO.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 12 July 2005)

Q.1.15 What are some issues the VOs are looking for, that could raise a question?

A.1.15.1

-         Third party issues (outside person contacts GUZ [with false information])

-         Previous Marriages / children (VO will know this prior to interview start)

-         Beneficiary does not speak English well (VO could question ability to communicate)

-         Few number of visits (not always an issue, but if only one visit they might question the relationship)

-         Document issues (expired, missing)

-         Fraud (sham relationships)

 

A.1.15.2

See part II of this FAQ

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 23 Oct 2005)


Q.1.16 General Interview experiences and advice.

A.1.16.1

Item of importance is your fiancée attitude the VO's look for confidence and speed in answers and getting information.

A.1.16.2
Regarding the interview, it was pretty straight forward and my fiancée stated she saw the white slip on the VO's desk before the interview even began, although he unskillfully tried to keep it discreet. They asked the basic questions, such as when did we meet, how many times did I go to China and what was my job.

 

A.1.16.3

Your SO will only have about 5 minutes for the interview therefore just state the facts. For example if you met first on line and then when to China to meet her in person then just say that. They in turn might ask for proof of a relationship. Then she will take out all the emails, pictures, copies your airline tickets, passport (and or certified copy), etc.


A.1.16.4
(K3 Interview January 2005) (White slip) (Petitioner in Guangzhou)
The dreaded interview for my wife was a slam dunk, I think due to being overly prepared with about 15 pounds of photos, emails, letters, documents, etc. and my wife promptly displaying my passport. One year with CFL had us overly prepared, having read of others blue slips and difficulties the past year. We had a tape speaking English prepared, I had email addresses for Congressional offices, legal wording for open record requests, etc, everything I could find if we had any difficulties.
We had practiced about 150 interview questions for the last two months and the actual interview boiled down to about 6 questions in two minutes time, after my wife had stood waiting for about 4 hours. The interviewer was a pretty Caucasian woman who asked the questions in Chinese, my wife responding in English.
Many of the other women being interviewed made remarks about the large amount of evidence my wife had. Some of their interviews lasted 15 - 20 minutes and they had little 1" or less stacks of supporting documents.

A.1.16.5
(K1 Interview January 2005) (Blue slip for expired notarial single certificate/ White) (Petitioner not in Guangzhou)
This ordeal has brought us closer as a couple as the weeks pass.
After her initial blue slip last week, I and her family spent days trying to get her spirits back in the fight. I advised her that in spite of what happened, the best response is to rush back to the consulate (with the corrected paperwork) as quickly as possible. I even suggested she watch a Kung Fu movie to help get her fighting spirit back.
I also assured her that if she had another setback, I'd be in China the next week. I think the fact that we would be together soon, no matter what, helped her be more fearless.

A.1.16.6
(K1 and K2 Interview January 2005) (White slip) (Petitioner in Guangzhou)
As for the interview itself, my SO gave the VO my passport which he examined closely. Next, my SO gave the VO my personal letter to the consulate, which I had notarized the day before in the citizens center (of the consulate). This obviously showed I was there in GZ with her, along with giving her my original passport to show them.
For the most part, the questions asked were standard and typical of everyone else, but the VO did probe a little bit about each of our prior marriages and divorces.
Next, the VO spent a lot of time looking at each and every one of the pictures we provided.
Finally, near the end of the interview when he was approving the visa, she asked the VO if he wanted to see the I-134 which he apparently forgot about.
Then, the good news came: "I'm going to approve your visa."

 

A.1.16.7

 

1. Be organized in the paperwork so the beneficiary can hand over quickly what is asked. Separate small folders are recommended.
2. Prepare the best pictures (ones with family are best, but be prepared to state who is in a picture.. if a US relative, make sure beneficiary knows who is who). Possibly prepare one picture of you two in traditional custom, like if you went to Yunnan.. The sight of a USC in Chinese clothes usually brings a smile to a VO.
3. Group photos and correspondence into early, middle, recent ... some have been asked to see "early pictures" or "recent correspondence".
4. Dress appropriately, not too casual, like business casual
5. Be CONFIDENT, look in the VOs eyes (or at his nose or forehead). Usually the interview is quick and informal.. but has turns into an interrogative atmosphere. If asked about "why do you love him" or "why does he love you", state what you feel. Don't withhold a little personal feeling if that is what the VO wants.
6. Be the first to say "good afternoon" with a smile and get the first jitters to calm down.

7. Have one email log visible on the counter or on your lap showing communication.. Particularly if you want to show communication in Chinese or other language.
8. Have one picture visible if you want to convey anything specific that picture shows. I recall one BENEFICIARY had a picture of them in a “majority” groups dress, and the VO smiled at seeing it.
9. When asked for passport, give petitioner passport as well, particularly if he is there to establish this.
10. Answer directly, simply, and truthfully. If it is not enough, the VO will ask more.
11. If you don't understand, just say so and ask to repeat the question, don't guess at it (and never lie).
12. IF asked for financial info, I would give it all to them. with the one asked on top. (I-134, employer letter, taxes with W2, bank letter). They cannot say you did not provide the right financial document then.
13. If a child is present, they often are not asked any questions. Just let the child know to sit by quickly unless directly spoken to.

14. Prepare your BENEFICIARY to know which town/state you will marry in. (have seen this asked enough that K1s should prepare for it).
15. If any previous marriages, expect more questions.
16. If your child will follow later, state this so that the visa packet is broken into two packets.
17. If you get a denial slip, be aware that overcome evidence is almost always going to get you the visa... Just get what they ask for. 
Remember, it is rare to NOT ultimately get the visa. Be strong and supportive. Stick through it and you will get the visa!

 

 

A.1.16.8

I went to the US Citizen Services Hour during one of my visit to China, and there the visa officer giving the presentation made a good comment for how to think of the interview.

She said to think of the interview as a chance for us to present to them what is special or unique about our relationship.

Granted that might be difficult for our SO to do, given that they will feel a kind of pressure that we will never know, but it also may help to make their task a little easier.

In the end, the Visa Office has a very simple job (though it may be difficult for them to do easily or well) The way I see it, the VO has 3 things he needs to do for each visa applicant (their may be more) so anything we can do to help make their job easier will be better for us in the end

The three things that I see are:

- They need to verify that all the papers are completed for the visa to be to be processed. This is just a matter of paper work and checking all the details. We can help by making sure everything is completed (to the best of our ability)

- They need to verify that the Financial requirements are met. This is done by checking for income, assets etc of the petitioner. We can help by making sure these are clearly shown with Bank Letter, Tax forms etc.

- And finally they need to verify that the relationship is real and personal.
We can help by showing them what is unique about our relationship, what is personal about it.

Though we hope we will never see the Visa Officer again, for the brief time of the interview, we can "pretend" that they are like part of our family, and we (or SO) can try to explain to them or show them what is unique and special about our relationship.

For us, we have the usual photos and emails. But we also have poems that i have written for my fiancée, we have a notebook that we have written our thoughts during our 3 visits together, and we have also recorded a video where we were talking about our 3 visits together.

so hopefully with these, the visa officer will see the personal characterizes of our relationship and feel comfortable approving our visa

 

A.1.16.9

I strongly recommend going over the list of VO questions with your SO.   [See the Interview Questions FAQ].

Typically, VO would ask two or three questions about your family (past and present) as in your bio sketch. It's a test on how much your SO knows you. It would be such lost of time and more months of waiting if SO stumbled on those simple questions. I drilled my laopo on many of those questions, and everything went well. While my laopo was being interviewed, she overheard conversation in adjacent booth. That one lady hesitated or uncertain with a question about her SO's past family. The question was related to her SO's former marriage or maybe about the father. The reply seemed to indicate she did not know anything about her SO's past, particularly on significant event.

 

A.1.16.10

More info:

 

Tips for Interview, what the Beneficary can do:

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=12196&hl=

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 12 July 2005)


Q.1.17 What are some comments directly from the VO about the interview?

 

 

A.1.17.1

The VO told my wife that there are 3 things that they tend to look for:
1. How did you meet?
2. How many times has the petitioner been to see you?
3. Not asked but noted - is he waiting outside for you?

 

A.1.17.2

In a nutshell, the VO said, do not sweat a yellow slip. It simple means they need to take more time to review your information.

A.1.17.3

VO:  The VO's have great discretion over who gets a Visa. The rules are kind of gray. Many of their initial decisions are based on gut reactions.   What this means, is that if their gut reaction throws any kind of red flag up they will either use the interview to come a satisfactory conclusion that a white slip is to be issued, or they will decide (or have already decided) that your case needs further review. 

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 12 July 2005)


Q.1.18 Most Important / Common / Frequent Items?

 

A.1.18.1

MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES FOR GETTING THE VISA:

1.       Establish bona-fide relationship:  Proof of having meet at least once;  multiple visits by petitioner is better

2.       Establish bona-fide relationship: informal Pictures of the couple together, and with beneficiary's family is better

3.       Establish on-going relationship / communication: Proof of frequent and regular calls, preferably logs from a phone company with both caller & called numbers.

4.       Establish you meet the financial guidelines: bring I-134, Tax returns with W2, employer letter, bank letter if using assets.

5.       Establish communication: Beneficiary’s English is good.  If communication could appear to be a problem to the VO, make a tape.

 

 

A.1.18.2

TOP 10 MOST COMMON QUESTIONS [what they establish]:

1.       May I see your passport(s) ; Also give petitioner passport if you have it   [ Establishes eligibility and petitioner’s visits]

2.       Who applied for you / who is the petitioner   [Establishes your understanding of the petitioner]

3.       How did you meet / where did you meet  [Establishes that you meet]

4.       How many times did he come / How long has he visited you each visit / how much time have you been together  [Establishes bona-fide relationship via number of visits or amount of time together;  If the VO has the petitioner passport (or copy), then this is akin to a test question.  He already knows this by looking at the passport.]

5.       What does he do / where does he live  [Establishes relationship, that you know your fiancée / spouse]

6.       Are either of you previously married / have children (k3/CR1, be prepared: If yes, most likely more to come]

7.       Do you have photos [Establishes relationship]

8.       Do you have financial (I-134 / taxes & W2 / employment) documents  [Establishes meeting the financial requirements]

9.       Do you have plans to marry / where will you marry (k1 only)   [Establishes your intent to marry and live in US]

10.   Are you a communist?  [Establishes any ineligibility]

 

COMMON ANSWERS OR COMMENTS TO THE QUESTIONS:

1.       Yes, here it is.   [Provide fiancées at same time; if he is not with you, provide certified copy; if he is present also present his passport.  This will save a question to see the fiancée passport and establishes if he is there or not]

2.       My fiancée / spouse XYZ

3.       Internet, Friends, etc.   IF second question of “where/how”, then give specific internet forum/board/webpage name.

4.       Try to list the dates and length of time of each visit.   If any visit is close to a month or more, emphasize you two ‘lived together’.

5.       Say the type of work [computer programmer, works at bank, he is a plumber.   If where, then give Town and State.

6.       They should already know this… so a ‘test’ question.   State how many times or how many children. 

7.       Answer yes.  Provide the pictures and at least one near the top that should make the VO smile.  Provide material.

8.       Answer yes.  Provide the material.

9.       We plan to marry in the US in “town and state”.  When? Give the month of or after you expect to arrive.

10.   NO !

 

A.1.18.3

COMMON QUESTIONS TO PREVIOUS MARRIAGE:

 

Concerning Beneficiary:

How many times have you been married? (state how many times )
When did you get divorced? (give date)

Why did you get divorced?  (state a reason)

Where is your previous husband? / Where does your ex-husband live? (If unknown, state as such)
After your divorce, do have contact with him?  (be honest, but minimal.  If no, state so)

Do you have any children? (state how many)

Who has custody of the child?  (if your child is also seeking a visa, you must have full custody)

For the beneficiary having previous marriages, the VO wants to make sure that the ex-spouse is not in the country you are about to go to. Otherwise this could raise some concern that you are trying to get to that country to be with the ex-spouse.  The VO also wants to ensure that you have full custody of the child, If your seeking a visa for the child.

 


Concerning Petitioner:

When did the petitioner get divorced?

Why did you get divorced?

How long was he married?

Does your spouse have any children?
Does your spouse’s son live with your husband?

How old is your spouse’s son?
Did you know your spouse/fiancée was married 3 times? (Yes, he was last divorced in 1973)

For the petitioner having previous marriages, the VO wants to ensure that the relationship is a bona-fide one.   That the beneficiary knows the petitioner’s past, particularly if there are children.

 

A.1.18.4

MOST FREQUENTLY REQUESTED ITEM:

 

Most frequent documents requested, in order, during interview:

1.       Beneficiary’s passport 

2.       Petitioner’s passport

3.       Pictures

4.       I-134 financial statement, tax returns or financial supporting evidence

5.       Employment letter

6.       Divorce decrees

 

Most frequent item needed for overcome evidence:

1.       Request for evidence beyond the above

a.       Video tape

b.       Proof of trips

2.       Documents missing or newer ones needed

a.       Financial statement too old

b.       Employment letter too old

c.       Petitioner’s Passport not certified

d.       Petitioner Intent to marry too old

e.       Email showing dates, etc

 

 


base this last point on a review of 37 interviews related on CFL going back to March, 2005.


"How many times was your SO here; how long were you together, when was the last time?" was asked 62% of the time.
"How did you meet and when?" was asked 59% of the time.
"May I see photos (esp from early in the relationship)?" was asked 51% of the time
"What does your SO do for work?" was asked 45% of the time
"Do you know English, how do you communicate?" was asked 24% of the time
"Has your SO been married before, when was he/she divorced?" was asked 18% of the time
"Have you traveled outside China?" was asked 13% of the time
"What is your SO's name, who is the petitioner?" was asked 10% of the time
"May I see tax returns, the I-134?" was asked 10% of the time
"Have you been a member of the Communist Party?" was asked 8% of the time
"Where does your SO live?" was asked 8% of the time
"What is your job?" was asked 8% of the time.

 

 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 23 Oct 2005)

Q.1.19 DO you have examples of interviews?

 

A.1.19.1

See the CFL Interview Questions FAQ

A.1.20.2

The VO first started to speak to her in English. She told him to please speak in Chinese.

 

 

A.1.20.3

 

Interview Procedure at GUZ, in the consulate building

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=14235&hl=

 

Interview Experience at GUZ

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=14213&hl=

 

 

 

K1 interview experience:

 

Interview experience, Questions, etc

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=12690&hl=

 

Interview experience, in my own words -- Beneficiary

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=16235

 

 

CR1 interview experience:

 

Interview Success on 11/21/05 !!!, Reflections Of ...

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=14199

 

 

 

A.1.21.4

[Editor] Many ask whether doing the interview in English is best. In 2005, it appears that many have done the interview in Chinese without any negative outcome.

 

See for example:

 

Wife doesnt speak english; cr1 interview nxt month

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=13309




-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 13 February 2005)

Q.1.20 What's next after the Interview?

A.1.20.1
If the interview goes well, you will be able to pick up the visa in two days.    If they request more evidences, then you will be expected to provide that on another day.

 

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 9 July 2005)

Q.1.21 What if my child is following me?

 

A.1.21.1

She will most likely have to approach the staff at the 8:00 line for the daily interviews and explain the situation to them to get access to the interviewer who can take the envelope and have her return the next day to pick it up. This is probably not as rare an occurrence as it seems, so I'm sure the consulate is used to dealing with it.

A.1.21.2

If all visa papers place in 1 package, then K1 and K2 will have to enter together. You may tell consulate that k2 will enter after k1 at a later date, then GZ will place them to 2 packages, but your fiancée will have to sign on a sheet that GZ ask her.   k1 and k2 both are allowed to enter within 6 months.

 

A.1.21.3

I just returned from the consulate. The problem was easily solved by requesting that the manila envelope be split into separate packages.  We will return today at 4:00 to pick up two envelopes.

It meant going to the citizen's window on the 2nd floor and getting the nice lady there to call the guards and tell them to direct me to the visa interview area. I spoke with one of the interviewers, and explained the situation. They took the envelope and told me to have my wife pick up the two envelopes the next day. The only bump in the road was the guy at the window where she picked up the two envelopes. He had her sign a statement that the daughter would follow in four months.

 

A.1.21.4

It meant going to the citizen's window on the 2nd floor and getting the nice lady there to call the guards and tell them to direct me to the visa interview area. I spoke with one of the interviewers, and explained the situation. They took the envelope and told me to have my wife pick up the two envelopes the next day. The only bump in the road was the guy at the window where she picked up the two envelopes. He had her sign a statement that the daughter would follow in four months. Why he did this is not clear, but it ticked me off that he would presume to change policy.


 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 13 July 2005)

Q.1.22 We got the visa, how long is it good for?

A.1.22.1
You will have six months to enter the US.

 

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 23 Oct 2005)

Q.1.23 Where can I get information on the pickup procedures?

A.1.23.1

http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzhou/iv/new.html

 

http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzhou/iv/New%20notice%20for%20tianyu.htm

 

A.1.23.2

After Interview, it takes one day for the visa stamp and the next day it can be picked up (other than holidays).

Interview was Thursday about 11:40. She paid before 12:30 We will pick up the visa Saturday morning.

If you go to the interview on Friday you cannot pick up the visa until Tuesday.

A.1.23.3

To be specific, China Post is closed on Sunday, at least the one you make the payment, but you pick up the visa at a China Postal Savings which is open 7 days a week.

 

A.1.23.3

You must tell your SO to bring their ID and/or their family registry booklet as well as their passport.

 

Maybe we think "duh?" But some ladies thought they are going to America so the ID is not useful. They did not know, or whatever reason, that the embassy will keep their passport to put the visa in it.

Therefore, today two SO cannot pick up their visa papers at the Post Office because they do not have any original ID.

And, no, the Post Office will not accept copies of anything. Not even any document already used, notarized or prepared for the interview!! We asked about this at the Post Office with one lady. The first problem is that none of the notarized documents have any photo. The second problem is the Post Office will not accept a birth certificate as ID.

This lady knew a Police Official in her home town. She had her mother take her ID card there but the Police will not fax it to the Guangzhou Post Office because, guess what? She cannot prove her identity!!

So, her mother took the ID to the airport and asked an airplane worker to bring it to Guangzhou on the 12:00 flight. The lady’s daughter is with us now while the mom goes to get her ID.


A.1.23.4

There’s been many cases where a SO will have the interview, given a pink/red slip and told "your approved" and only to find a blue slip waiting at time for pickup 2 days later.
here’s what i did, my SO's interview was on a Friday she was told to return on Tuesday at the post to get the visa, instead of waiting 2 days i called DOS on Monday and the DOS agent told me "she had been approved at the interview and her visa has been prepared and completed"
now this is a very good way of knowing before going back to pick up the visa because after your SO has the interview and instead of waiting in limbo for 2 days wondering if the visa will actually be there for her or a blue slip you can be better prepared, because if by chance there was a reverse approval after the interview you would know a day earlier and then you can have your SO bring all the evidence of your relationship with her to pick up the blue slip and then go to the consulate immediately, i couldn’t wait the 2 full days i called DOS the day after her interview and was told visa and no blue slip!! so for the people who cant go to the interview you can call the DOS after the interview and find out the best post-interview information "visa or blue slip" just my thoughts

 

A.1.23.5

NEW IV UNIT ADDRESS:

The new address is:

5th floor-2nd annex

Tian Yu Garden

136-142, Lin He

Zhong Road, Guangzhou.

 

A.1.23.6

More info:

SeeGUZ Info Forum:  http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showforum=23

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 9 July 2005)

Q.1.24 What should I check on the visa?

A.1.24.1

Check that all spelling is correct.

 

A.1.24.2

Although visa was in hand the very next day, but a misspelled name was discovered when she had the visa. Immediately, she returned to the window for correction, but she has to wait in GZ for 3 more days (because of the weekend). Thankfully, she got the corrected visa back on Monday afternoon, will return home on Tuesday.

A.1.24.3

The visa usually has three numbers on it:

1. The "A" number. This is usually hand written alien registration number starting with the letter A# then a 9. It is NOT the visa number.

2. The Control Number. This number in black looks like a date sequence, e.g., 2005034.....It is usually found in the upper right of the visa. This in the control number. It is NOT the visa number.

3. The red number in the lower right of the visa. This IS the visa number.

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 27 Sept 2005)

Q.1.25 What happens if we lose the passport and visa?

A.1.25.1

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?...opic=10659&st=0

A.1.25.2
http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/info/info_2009.html


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===================================================================
===================================================================
===================================================================

Section two: Questions related to fraud avoidance and visa denials
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Q.2.1What are some issues the VO is looking for, which might prompt questions?
Q.2.2 Third Party issues?
Q.2.3 Previous Marriage?
Q.2.4 Beneficiary does not speak English well?
Q.2.5 Few number of visits by petitioner?
Q.2.6 Document issues?
Q.2.7 Fraud?
Q.2.8 How can I guard against the perception of fraud?
Q.2.9 Will sending money be considered evidence or fraud?
Q.2.10 We did not get the visa, they want additional evidence!
Q.2.11 We got a blue/pink slip?
Q.2.12 Video tape?
Q.2.13 Where can I get a video tape made in Guangzhou?
Q.2.14 What should we do in the video tape?
Q.2.15 Will the VO accept a video tape during the interview?
Q.2.16 When can we submit overcome evidence?
Q.2.17 Has anyone turned in a video and had the video rejected ?
Q.2.18 Do you have example interviews of denials?
Q.2.19 Where can I view the denial code?

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 24 July 2005)

Q.2.1 What are some issues the VO is looking for, which might prompt questions?

A.2.1.1

-         Third party issues (outside person contacts GUZ [with false information])

-         Previous Marriages / children (VO will know this prior to interview start)

-         Beneficiary does not speak English well (VO could question ability to communicate)

-         Few number of visits by petitioner (not always an issue, but if only one visit they might question the relationship)

-         Document issues (expired, missing)

-         Fraud (sham relationships)

 

A.2.1.2

Since July of 2004 here on CFL, there have been 99 Interviews with a report of how it went which included some kind of usable data. (date of post was June 2005)
Of these, 33 US Citizen's did not go to the interview, and five of them got a blue slip.
44 US Citizens went to the Interview, and six of them got a blue slip.
The rest 23, the data is not available if they went or not, eight of them got a blue slip.
Here is the break down of the blue slips categorized:
Paperwork problem (Minor) - 3
Paperwork problem (Major) - 4
Requesting a video - 6
Financial problem - 3
Third party problem – 3

 

A.2.1.3

Of the 25 blue slips:
15 did not go to the interview. Of these, two are waiting to be resolved.
8 did go to the interview. Of these, 7 have been resolved, one is waiting to be resolved
2 did not say if they went to the interview. Both are status unknown.

Of the 200 interviews,
8 of them never reported back, and so we do not know if they passed or went to the interview.
45 passed but did not say if they if they did or did not go to the interview.
68 who passed said they did not go to the interview.
89 who passed said they did go to the interview.

Looking at this the same way as we did in June:
Of the 68 petitioners who did not go to the interview, 15 of them got a blue slip.
Of the 89 who did go to the interview, 8 of them got a blue slip
Of the rest, 45, the data was not available and 2 of them got a blue slip. (you realize that this data is not too useful, again, a plea to post your information).

We see by looking at the data for the year, it appears that of those who did not go to the interview, 22% of them got a blue slip.
Of those who did go to the interview, only 9% got a blue slip.

 

 

A.2.1.4

More info:

 

Two(2) motives VO always check

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=15789

 

Blue slip list / Denials, Updated and analysis December 2005

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=14833

 

Concerning blue slips. Or how I learned, to stop worrying and love the Guz.
http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=10793

 

For August and September Interviews, Blue slip history-things to be aware of.

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=11959

 

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 23 Oct 2005)

Q.2.2 Third Party issues?

A.2.2.1

IN EARLY JAN I CALLED DOS AND FOUND OUT OUR CASE HAD BEEN SENT TO THE"FRAUD PREVENTION UNIT". DOS WOULD NOT EXPLAIN WHY, SO I CALLED ON MY CONGRESSMAN TO INVESTIGATE. THE GZ RESPONSE TO THE INQUIRY SAID "AFTER A SECOND REVIEW OF THE CASE AND RECEIVING THIRD PARTY CORRESPONDENCE, THE CONSULAR OFFICER DETERMINED THE CASE SHOULD BE SENT BACK TO THE U.S.A. FOR REVOCATION

I HAVE SPOKEN TO MY SO ALL THE QUESTIONS ABOUT TRUTHFUL ANSWERS, ETC, ETC...I HATED ITERROGATING HER, BUT I FEEL THE QUESTIONS ARE NECESSARY. I ALSO SUGGESTED THAT PERHAPS HER EX-HUSBAND IS THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM...SHE IS ABSOLUTELY SURE ITS NOT HIM. IT IS OBVIOUS SOMEONE IN HER SOCIAL OR FAMILY CIRCLE(PERHAPS A FORMER EMPLOYER WHO TOLD HER TO LEAVE WHEN SHE ANNOUNCED SHE PLANNED TO IMMIGRATE). MY SO IS VERY OPEN, AND HAS BEEN SHARING HER JOY WITH EVERYONE SINCE WE MET...A GOOD TIP FOR EVERYONE...TELL YOUR SO NOT TO SHARE INFO WITH ANYONE, AND TO DO AS MUCH DOCUMENTATION ON HER OWN IF POSSIBLE

SHE SHARED AN INTERESTING STORY WITH ME ABOUT WHEN SHE WAS PREPARING HER DOCUMENTS IN GZ. SHE VISITED WITH ONE OF THE 'AGENCIES' NEAR THE CONSULATE. A WOMAN AT ONE OF THESE AGENCIES VIEWED THE PAPERS, THEN REQUESTED AN EXORBITANT PRICE TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE. WHEN MY SO REFUSED TO ACCEPT THE QUOTED PRICE, THE WOMAN LOOKED VERY PERTURBED ACCORDING TO MY SO)..PERHAPS SHE IS THE ROOT OF THE PROBLEM?

 

A.2.2.2

we struggled through the Guangzhou blue slip hell. You may remember, my wife's interview was on 2/16 and she passed only to receive a blue slip the next day when she went back for the visa. We submitted every piece of email, pictures, videos, and chat cd's which totally confused the VO. This woman was convinced that ours was a sham relationship. After she saw the huge stack of stuff we submitted, she decided to talk to my wife again. This time we found out what the real problem was. There was third party correspondence involved. We know the two people that sent this to the consulate. They are Chinese criminals and I will just leave it at that. After the truth came out, my wife got her visa. It was a very difficult few days and I hope nobody ever has to go through what we did. We did finally come out ok and I think these two criminals are totally discredited now

 

A.2.2.3

I met my wife over a year ago. She was being charged for translation services from her friend. Her friend even accompanied her, at my expense, to HK to meet me in February. Later, I installed a translation program on my computer. My wife no longer needed this "friend". The friend then tried to resort to blackmail to continue to receive the cash. The blackmail almost worked. We were 2 inches away from breaking up, when the "friends" stories started to unravel.

 

A.2.2.4

Here is a single post chronicling a denial, discovered third-party source, overcome evidence, approval, and then additional processing:

 

Guangzhou gave us blue paper

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=13009

 

 

[Editor: All above experienced confirmed third party correspondence.  All three received denials and delays around six months. First three resulted in an eventual visa; last one was approved but had sudden ‘processing’ need... ]

 

A.2.2.5

The first is a link to the FAM dealing with revocation and supposedly provides guidance on when to return a K petition. http://foia.state.gov/masterdocs/09fam/0941081N.pdf

The second is a directive from then Sec. of State Powell on the same subject. http://www.immigration-law.com/Misc.html

(Down toward the bottom is the section titled "DOS Addresses Petition Revocations ".)

A.2.2.6

This answer lead to a whole series of question about how I met her aunt and how my best friend, who is also Chinese living in America introduced me to her aunt and it gets kind of complicated but XYZ did her best to explain….

 

A.2.2.7

The threat of third party correspondance, for blue slips

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=13218

 

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 22 July 2005)

Q.2.3 Previous Marriage?

A.2.3.1

And then quickly focused in on her ex-husband, and if she was really trying to go to North American to be reunited, and if she had ever been to Canada before…

 

A.2.3.2

For the most part, the questions asked were standard and typical of everyone elses, but the VO did probe a little bit about each of our prior marriages and divorces.

A.2.3.3
Editor:
If one of you have been married before, there’s a higher chance the VO will ask questions about this. If the beneficiary is previously married, the VO might ask some very candid questions.

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 24 July 2005)

Q.2.4 Beneficiary does not speak English well?

A.2.4.1

The REAL reason for denial - my wife speaks little english. The VO, of course, can pick this up right away, and the resulting red flag prompts him to look for any reason he can find to issue the yellow slip. So don't get discouraged. I think it's just standard procedure. The official reason given to us was "insufficient evidence of a bona fide relationship". In actuality, we had a ton of evidence.

A.2.4.2

The fiancée’s ability or inability to speak English is not the sole factor for the yellow slip. English proficiency is not a MUST, but they can ask for evidence of how couple communicates (request for a videotape of couple communicating by any means frequently requested nowadays).

A.2.4.3

I've also been told they'll emphasize language difference to support "other ", nagging doubts. There's something deeper to than "no English" .

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 24 July 2005)

Q.2.5 Few number of visits by petitioner?

A.2.5.1

The VO that answered questions during the session i attended said the most important things to her were, how many visits to china the petitioner has made (documented by your passport or notarized copy of passport), a personal letter from the petitioner and pictures.

 

A.2.5.2

VO:  Why did your fiancée only see you one time in China he makes so much money each month?

 

She showed him a notarized letter from me explaining that because my company is in the middle of a large expansion I have been very busy training new light rail operators and could not get any time off. I have been also training some one else to fill in for me and I want to save all my vacation time to use for when she arrived.     [Blue slip interview]

A.2.5.3

VO: Please give me your fiancée passport.
   L: He has not come to accompany me.
 VO: Why not?
   L: Because he just returned home on 1/7, now he doesn't have the time to return.

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 24 July 2005)

Q.2.6 Document issues?

A.2.6.1

A yellow slip was immediately issued since our financial support papers were almost a year old.

 

A.2.6.2

Rejection had to do with not having a one year 'notarized copy of a one year employment contract.'

 

A.2.6.3

GZ wants to see the to and from addresses for all Yahoo emails to my wife. I only made copies of the

messages.

 

A.2.6.4

My wife got a yellow slip asking for my certified divorce decree from the courthouse.

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 24 July 2005)

Q.2.7 Fraud?

A.2.7.1
Fraud is a major problem, they see all manner of fake paperwork. Up to and including fake US passports and IRS paperwork.

 

A.2.7.2

They are looking for fraud in the following methods:

1.       two-way fraud (Chinese beneficiary pays American petitioner)

2.       one-way fraud (Chinese beneficiary is ‘pretending’ affection; plans to dupe petitioner.)

 

A.2.7.3

VISA SENT BACK TO USCIS:

1.       a common scheme is for a couple to divorce, the husband goes to the US, illegally or as an unmarried son, then the wife needs to find some USC to marry to get to the States and re-hook up with the ex-husband.

2.       USCs serially bringing multiple fiancée  or spouses to the States
for a relative short period of time each, splitting up and then doing it again and again. The USC probably gets paid.

3.       Use of fraudulent documents, such as fraudulent phone logs from well known phone providers in the US as well as phony (pun) logs for call cards..

 

A.2.7.4

His first statement to me was that he was getting $15,000 to get married and he was wondering how much I was getting.

 

A.2.7.5

When they found out I was going to China, a few said they could hook me up with a relative and I could make around $10,000 by agreeing to a sham marriage.

 

A.2.7.6

We got hit with the videotape request. The Officer in the USC Section said they are trying to avoid fraud - woman paying/marrying to come and get a green card.

 

A.2.7.7

If I'm not mistaken, they're checking for a particular fraud method I've heard of before; where a Chinese couple has a sham divorce; he goes to the USA and waits for her.

They want his picture to make sure he's still in China. The consulate wants to make sure they're actually divorced and not trying to hook up in the US.

Additionally, they want to make sure the 'divorced' couple isn't living together in China right now; thus the request for the residency document.

 

[editor: In this last example,  third party correspondence resulted in the visa denial and the VO asked to see a picture of the ex-husband holding a newpaper in China with the date visible—to prove he was in China]


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 24 July 2005)

Q.2.8 How can I guard against the perception of fraud?

A.2.8.1

If you can teach your Chinese fiancée or spouse good enough English that she can confidently answer ANY question, then sure, you don't need as much proof. If your SO knows everything about you and is fluent in English, I suppose that is another way of getting a "Slam Dunk" on proof of relationship.

HOWEVER, if your fiancée or spouse is not completely confident with her English, you'd better make sure she doesn't accidentally fall into a fraud profile. If she does, the VO may grill her and she may get very nervous and forget all of her English! Her nervousness may just make the VO think he or she is on to something. And sometimes the questions that get thrown out can be pretty unreasonable. For instance, one of the lists of questions asked in interviews had this question: "what is the first name of your fiancée  mother?"

A.2.8.2

The one formula that the fraudulent people will never be able to duplicate is EFFORT. Someone who is committing fraud is not going to put in the countless hours of communication those of us with valid relationships put in. So my suspicion is that this is one of the first things COs look for. If you can show "countless hours of communication" then I think the CO will just ask a couple of simple questions and not even think about contesting relationship. Sure they may find something else to complain about if you have a problem on some form. But they won't give you a yellow slip for "insufficient proof of relationship" when you actually have a valid relationship.

Some people have been very naive about the evidence they have submitted. For example, I've seen lots of posts saying "bring copies of love letters," but I would guess that love letters are almost meaningless as evidence because they are so easily copied and faked.

Making multiple trips is strong evidence against two-party fraud because if the American is being paid, making multiple trips cuts into profits. Plus the Chinese beneficiary probably doesn't want to see him more than necessary. So it's also evidence against one-party fraud.

A.2.8.3

Taking tons of pictures, particularly with family and friends, is evidence against both kinds of fraud, because if it were fraud, the family and friends probably would be nervous about being in the picture. And if you have pictures from many different locations, it demonstrates an amount of "work" that would probably be unusual in most fraud cases.

Logs of regular phone calls that show both calling and callee phone number helps dispute "one-party" fraud because again, it shows a lot of work on the part of the beneficiary.

 

A.2.8.4

At the interview, VO can see your bright smile and happiness when talking about your husband or fiance.
They also can see it on the pics.

In a fraud case, the expression betrays the applicant: distance when talking about the petitioner.

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 24 July 2005)

Q.2.9 Will sending money be considered evidence or fraud?

A.2.9.1

From the beneficiary’s point of view, sending the SO money is a sign they are willing to care for the SO.  But from the VO perspective, they might want to question why the beneficiary is doing this.     In the ‘two way fraud’, if the woman paid the man, then it seems less like the man would want to send money.  Then he would not really be paid in the end.   Yet the woman could be attempting double fraud by trying to get the money back from the man.    In the ‘one way fraud’, it would be likely that she wants to receive money since the relationship is not a true one.   Again, like a double fraud is at work.

The VO may not understand the reason for sending money since the beneficiary was already supporting themselves.    If the beneficiary quit her job in order to pursue some activities like English lessons, then it would be best to have documentation or receipts from her to show that. 

 

A.2.9.2

they said I sent too much money to my husband ,because I make so little ... My husband got denied for this - they want a statement from me stating why i sent him so much....

 

A.2.9.3

Editor:  The few who have expressed an opinion and have been through interviews and/or know of others who have been through them, have expressed that it is probably NOT a good idea to use this as evidence of a relationship.   Some situations might be easily explained or documented.  Proceed with the idea that the beneficiary might have to answer to it, and is that what you want to have happen?


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 24 January 2005)

Q.2.10 We did not get the visa, they want additional evidence!

A.2.10.1
The forms are pre-printed forms with a few check boxes. I would assume that with a little proficiency, they could be filled out in less than 30 seconds. Issues such as poor language skills would be difficult to know before the interview.

A.2.10.2

This answer depends of the situation. The thing to remember is this is not a denial. Get the evidence they asked for, even if you had it there and they did not look at it.    Get together what ever GZ wants and do it quickly. Fax the documents that GZ wants to your fiancée so she can turn them in to the consulate.  But act now!

 

A.2.10.3

A yellow slip doesn’t mean NO, it only means, Not Now.

 

A.2.10.4
Various people had been given this for the following reasons:
Consulate worker did not have enough time to process paperwork.
Financial documents were not complete.
Other documents not complete.
The same general answer seems to apply as the blue/pink slip. Have as much documentation on hand, be ready to provide more evidence even if it was available at the interview and you need to bring it again.

A.2.10.5

Editor: This is outdated as the slip colors changed. Yellow slips accompanied a denial, requesting more information.  So the reference to yellow may not longer be applicable, but the comments are useful to know.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 24 January 2005)

Q.2.11 We got a blue/pink slip?

A.2.11.1

Apparently there seems to be two type of statuses with RFE.

1) A flat out rejection (e.g. No enough funds for Affidavit of Support, no 134, no Income Tax records, etc.) These cannot be rectified immediately and an appointment becomes necessary.
2) A doubt that has been raised in the VOs mind, that can easily rectified by a FAX. This was the case with Yin. The letter that I posted above I sent immediately, with a small 1 week portion of onesuite records that I marked in pen #1,2,3,4.

 

A.2.11.2
The blue slip is the denial the pink slip is what explains what they want from you. Get the documents they need ASAP and she can likely clear this up in a few days. In a nutshell you've got to give them what they want. Get it together and she can take them down to the consulate and turn them in. She will then come back the next day for a decision. Have her prepared for a second interview when she does.

A.2.11.3
You can go here for "section 221" info.
Is it possible a wrong box was checked on your DS-156 or DS-230?
http://www.immigrationapplication.com/classes.htm

A.2.11.4
One last piece of advice that I picked up from our sage Don when Bing and I were having our version of hell on earth while dealing with the unreasonable VO we got the first go round at GZ. "Use a lot of mouthwash to get the taste out of your mouth while kissing their ass" Don't be confrontational. They have all the power. Be polite and firm but not accusatory. They don't like to admit they make mistakes so they need an out to save face.

For instance when I wrote the letter to the VO we submitted with our overcome documents while addressing the issue of her English skills while talking to the VO I wrote "Bing does speak English. The problem and what I think caused the blue slip is sometimes she has a problem hearing English. When that happens I simply type out the phrase in English so she can read it. She then replies in English." This gave them an out to save face. Now they can say "Ah that's it! No wonder. I thought she doesn't know English since she didn't understand me. So that's how they communicate."

A.2.11.5
OK, I was at the consulate on Sept. 30, 2004 for the info session.

The VO that gave the talk had this to say about Blue Slips.

The VO's have great discretion over who gets Visa's, the rules are kind of gray. Many of their initial decision's are based on gut reactions. They are only allotted a certain amount of time to review the material before the interview. Then they only have a limited amount of time at the interview.
What this means, is that if their gut reaction throws any kind of red flag up.


They may not look at anything at the interview, they have already decided that your case needs further review. Which they do not have time for at the initial interview. For us that means we will get a blue slip, we will be asked to bring requested info back the next day. Often times the info will be just the info you had at the interview, which they could not take the time to look at, that day.


In the VO's own words---When you bring your info in, it will sit on his desk until he takes the time to review EVERYTHING, he says he can not go home until the pile of cases on his desk is reviewed.


In a nutshell, he said do not sweat a blue slip, initially. It simple means they need to take more time to review your information.
Fraud is a major problem, they see all manner of fake paperwork. Up to and including fake US passports and IRS paperwork.
I know this does not seem very fair but it kind of explains some of the inconsistencies we see.
Some of us real people are getting swooped up in the big game.


The VO did not seem the least remorseful about how some people might be asked to return again and again, even though their homes might be thousands of miles away. Although overall, he seemed to be a nice guy.


I heard what I have heard often here-----bring as much documentation as you can get. They may look at it OR they may not. Every case is different!


The good news, if any! Tell your SO to stay calm, if a blue slip is issued-quite possibly it can be resolved with just the paperwork you already have. They just need to take the time to look at it.
Well, that is how he explained it.
Beyond that, I think sometimes they just ask for off the wall Items(like videotapes)to see how people will respond. If there was a big complete list of everything you needed, then I suppose the fakers would have a fake everything when they show up for the interview.

 

A.

More info:

 

Field Report From Guangzhou

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=14483


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 15 February 2005)

Q.2.12 Video tape?

A.2.12.1
Tapes are generally only requested as proof as the ability to communicate.
Thus, if the beneficiary speaks poor English, they may ask the Sponsor to send a tape of him or her speaking and writing Chinese.

However, in that case, a tape of the two individuals communicating together is generally accepted, and the USC can generally get out of taking a Crash-Course in Chinese.
If the beneficiary has VERY STRONG English skills, it is very unlikely that they will ask for a tape.
One thing to keep in mind. The interview may be your fiancee's most stressful day of her life. If she had mediocre English skills, they could easily go flying out the window.
Also consider that the two of you have likely gotten accustomed to each of your speaking styles... There are a tremendous variety of English dialects in the world. Can you understand everything that British, Australian, or Indian speakers are saying? What about your favorite auctioneer? Will your fiancee do well if he or she encounters a heavily accented interviewer?

A.2.12.2
I wanted to share the response I received to my GZ inquiry. My congressmen's office fired off a question about video requirements and my interview date. While the GZ Consulate did not give a clue as to the interview date, they did respond to the video question.
Original query sent August 26, 2004.....GZ response dated Sept 13, 2004..


Dear representative xxxxx:

Thank you for your fax of August 26 regarding the fiancée is a application of your constituent (my name here with case ##). Mr (my name) requested your assistance in this matter.


Contrary to the information (my name) has been given, petitioners are not "required" to provide a videotape of the petitioner and beneficiary having a conversation in order to establish a bona fide relationship. During the interview, a question arises as to how the couple communicates if the petitioner speaks little or no Chinese and the applicant speaks little or no English. In such cases the interviewing officer may question the bona fide relationship and request additional evidence regarding the couples ability
to communicate.


If there is a question about how a couple communicate, the officer may ask for a video of the couple interacting and communicating together, but it is not required.
Since (my name) does not speak Chinese and his fiancée does not speak English, I would suggest that he provide his fiancée with some evidence, in whatever for it may be, that she can bring to the interview to show the interviewing officer that she and (my name) can meaningfully communicate.

We hope this information will assist you in responding to your constituent.

it was signed by Acting Chief
xxxxxxxx, Consular section

A.2.12.3
You will have to make an NTSC VHS tape. VCD/DVD won't work. Reason being the only equipment they have is for NTSC VHS. I got this from the mouth of a staffer in the citizen services section who used to work downstairs in Immigration.

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 9 July 2005)

Q.2.13 Where can I get a video tape made in Guangzhou?

A.2.13.1

The place to do video conversion to VHS tape has moved to the 4th floor here at the IV unit. They will only charge him 200 RMB to put the video on tape. He had made a video yesterday with them communicating .

 

A.2.13.2
To get a VHS tape made go to the Shamain Hotel (up and across from White Swan) go to the second floor, and through the glass door across from the maid's station. GZPerfect I think is the name.


Anyhow these are nice people, wish we had known about them earlier. They will tape a session for you for RMB500. We taped our own 25 minute session (Yes, it says 5 but we lost track of the time) using my minicam. I took them my minicam, they plugged it into their gear, RMB300 and an hour later we had our VHS tape.

Their phone number is 81215016 in GZ.

 

A.2.13.3

XYZ was issued a yellow sheet and we had to submit a tape showing us conversing in English.   We went to a "service" at the Shamian Hotel (catty corner from the White Swan) and had a 40 min tape done for 500 RMB (steep, but it passed the test).


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 9 July 2005)

Q.2.14 What should we do in the video tape?

A.2.14.1

The information officer at GZ put it this way. "you only need to prove you can communicate. This can be done with pencil and paper, electronic translator, whatever as long as it shows the relationship works."

A.2.14.2

On the tape you can speak any language you choose, or a combination. You can also use gesture electronic translators...anything to demonstrate there is communication. My fiancée speaks little English, so the above description gives a good idea of what our tape is like. Oh yes, it should be at least 5 minutes long (mine is 10), unedited, and hands should be in full view at all times. It also helps to have a date on the video and use something like a paper to further prove when video was made...

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 22 July 2005)

Q.2.15 Will the VO accept a video tape during the intervew?

A.1.15.1

The VO told me they very rarely ask for a video and they will not accept a video on the day of the interview even if you have one and they want one. is only if you are returning with a yellow slip will they even consider a video (vhs format).

 

A.2.15.2

They will not accept it at the interview because it is considered 'overcome evidence'... it's need only arises if the VO asks for it as part of additional evidence for 'communication' reasons.. They usually want to see the petitioner speak some chinese or at least the couple demonstrating the ability to communicate , which can include translators, etc..

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 9 July 2005)

Q.2.16 When can we submit overcome evidence?

 

Overcome visa application refusal, A new twist to the process
http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=12599


New Procedure for Additional Material Submission
http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzho...new.html#addmat

Starting September 15, applicants asked to submit additional materials for their immigrant visa will need to schedule an appointment. Please call the U.S. Visa Information Center at 4008-872-333 within China or 86-21-3881-4611 from other countries, from 7 A.M. to 7 P.M. (Monday - Friday) and 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. (Saturday) for an appointment. Applicants must provide: names in Chinese characters and pin yin, case number, ID card number, passport number, phone number, and date of birth. There is a charge to access the Visa Information Center. Prices are 54 RMB for 12 minutes or 36 RMB for 8 minutes. The Visa Information Center charge may be paid at any CITIC Bank office or on the Internet at https://www.usavisainformation.com.cn/eng/index.aspx. Once the charge is paid, you will be given a PIN number that must be given to the Visa Information Center when you call to verify the payment. The U.S. Visa Information Call Center currently can assist callers in Mandarin, Cantonese, Taishanese, and English.


Overcome Collection Hours

Our overcome document collection hours will be changed to 2pm - 3pm any Monday through Wednesday (except holidays) beginning May 16, 2005. Our consular services are moving to a new location; schedule changes and the new location address will be announced by July 18. For the latest updates, please check our website http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzhou/iv/new.html

 

A.2.16.1

http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzhou/iv/new.html#addmat

 

Starting September 15, applicants asked to submit additional materials for their immigrant visa will need to schedule an appointment.

 

Overcome documents will be accepted Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday (starting 05/16/05) from 2:00pm - 3:00pm.

 

A.2.16.2

That night, I gather up everything and even prepared the video and sent it out the next morning on USPS, priority mail. She got it within 4 days. As soon as she received my packet of information, she submitted it the next day. She did not see any VO. She just gave all the information to someone in the embassy. That person asked her to come back the next day at 2:00PM for the results. The next day she went back and was called into a different room with a different window (not the interview VO). At that window, they handed her all the evidence back and in the end handed her the "white" slip; and that was it. She did not require a second interview. And there wasn't much talking either.

 

A.2.16.3

SO called on Thursday - (Friday they would be closed for Veterans Day - so that is a 3 working day wait…

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 10 Nov 2005)

Q.2.17 Do you have examples of multiple denials ?

A.2.17.1

Interview #1..(boyfriend not in Guangzhou for interview) . VO says he is not convinced fiancée can speak enough English, so he requests a cassette audiotape of her having a conversation with fiancée … VISA DENIED

Interview #2 fiancée returns with cassette and is told by VO that audiotape recording is not enough, then requests a video of a conversation between her and her fiancée … VISA DENIED

Interview #3 fiancée returns, but this time her boyfriend is waiting outside the consulate...She has carried his passport, credit cards, social security card, drivers license, and blank check into the interview......VISA ISSUED!

A.2.17.2

We got the yellow sheet also, In fact, we got it 2 times. Both times it said they needed additional time to prepare the documents. My wife had to go back to Nanning 2 times and wait for an additional interview to be scheduled. I don't know how long you are planning to be there, but you might be in for a long wait.

 

A.2.17.3

Monday: We take our 3-inch thick package of bona-fides (in a conservative green expandable folder trimmed with black cloth and brass corner protectors) to the local agent who was handling the paperwork for my wife. Among other things the folder includes photocopies of my passport, a notarized letter in describing how I met my wife. Agent tells us that our papers appear to be in order, but that we had better make a video, which we proceed to do that night.

Tuesday: We run hither and yon in an attempt to locate a place to make a VHS tape... finally locate a place in the TianHe electonics bazaar that converted the miniDV tape to VCD.

Wednesday: Interview. Blue slipped, requesting notarized copies of my passport (she had my passport in the folder) notarized letter from me describing how we met (in the folder, clipped to the passport), and a videotape in VHS format.


Gentlemen, THIS is why you want to be here when your loved one goes into the interview.

Moments later I am inside the consulate at the Citizen Services section, asking in effect, what gives?? I get to speak with the manager(?) in the CSS who used to work down in the visa department. He is kind enough to make notarized color copies of my passport, and informs me that the consulate only takes NTSC VHS.


Thursday: We then RUN to the consulate to drop the requested material off. They take my wife’s passport and give her a white slip telling her to return at 14:00 on Friday.

Friday: 14:00 she gets another blue paper, with a yellow paper stapled to it. The yellow paper tells her that they need more time to decide?  don’t call us we will call you. On the blue paper it says the visa type is for K3?  except this was our interview for the K1???

 

I don't know why we were the unlucky recipients of a yellow slip. I do know that a few weeks later the consulate called and faxed my office to verufy that I did work where the paperwork said I worked. I did not inquire which questions were asked of my wife in the interview. Anything that makes her think it might have been her fault is to be avoided

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 22 July 2005)

Q.2.18  Do you have example interviews of denials?

A.2.18.1

 

1. "Do you speak English?

Mm:  Yes but sometimes I have a hard time hearing English."

2. Vo says something XYZ doesn't understand, takes the folder out of her hands, rifles through it pulling out the I-134 fills out a yellow slip and ends the interview.

 

YELLOW SLIP ISSUES:   Requests a video

 

OUTCOME:  Beneficiary flew to China.  Together made video and turned in video.   White slip given.

 

A.2.18.2

 

1. Can you speak English?

2. How can we communicate? We write to each other every day and we talk on the phone two times every day.

3. Show me the phone bills at once?

 

[All questions where asked in Chinese with a translator speaking the Chinese the vo could not speak Chinese.
He told the translator he found it difficult to believe we can communicate and he gave her the yellow slip.
She tried to show more proof and he did not answer.  She has to bring a video tape of me speaking some Chinese ]

YELLOW SLIP ISSUE:  Requests a video

 

 

A.2.18.3

 

1. What is your fiancée name?
2. What is his job?
3. Where does he live?
4. Does he have children?
5. When and where did you meet?
6. How many times did you meet in China?
7. When did you meet in China?

VO:  Why did your fiancée only see you one time in China he makes so much money each month?

 

She showed him a notarized letter from me explaining that because my company is in the middle of a large expansion I have been very busy training new light rail operators and could not get any time off. I have been also training some one else to fill in for me and I want to save all my vacation time to use for when she arrived.

YELLOW SLIP ISSUES:   Requests a video

 

OUTCOME:  Beneficiary turned in video.   White slip given.

 

A.2.18.4

 

1. Why do you and your fiancée want to get married?
2. What does he do for work?
3. Here did you meet?
4. When did he see you?

YELLOW SLIP ISSUES:
1) Yellow slip: Did not present enough information for a bone-fide relationship.
2) Green slip: Affidavit of support, 2004 tax returns & proof of self-employment (I am self employed, therefore no W2 or payroll receipts).
3) Pink Slip: Letter from petitioner on when we met and how me established our relationship. Plus additional e-mail and correspondence.  Also a notarized copy of each page of my passport.

OUTCOME:   Beneficiary turned in papers that needed correction.     White slip given.

 

A.2.18.5

(Interview Dec 2004)

The consulate questioned her divorce, so she had to provide docs showing that her ex-husband was truly a ex-husband.   The day of her interview, she was very nervous. The interviewing officer began drilling her very rapidly in english. She wanted to be certain she understood his questions clearly, so she asked him to speak in Mandarin. That was enough for him to surmise she did not speak any English, so he wanted me to make a tape of myself speaking in Chinese for 5 minutes, and also tape myself writing a brief history of relationship-in chinese characters. This was a bit of a problem, since I do not speak or write Chinese. Talk about freakin out!


So anyway, we got advice, and I made a tape of myself, in English, talking about our relationship. and I also wrote a long letter about Yang and myself, how we speak everyday on the phone, about her family, her past, ect.

 

So they had one doc that said she was divorced, and another that said she had never been married. I cannot say for sure that his caused the scrutiny, but it would make sense. Her interview ( 3 minutes) focused entirley on her ex-husband. " do you know were you ex-husband lives"? "How long have you been divorced"? The only question they ask about me was " why did you wait so long to get engaged"?

GUZ ask Yang to get a crap load of docs from her ex. Household registry, utility bills, ID card. Mainly to be sure she was not living with him, and hoping to bring him to the U.S. in the future.

 

BLUE SLIP ISSUES:  Request video and information about ex-husband

 

OUTCOME:  Administrative processing; application returned to USCIS

 

A.2.18.6

(Interview Sept 2005)

She got the blue slip. Information are sketchy. It seems like the officer has doubts about our marriage. Something about that my previous marriage officially ended 6 months before I married my wife. But what they didn't know was that the marriage was ended more than a year & a half before paper work and then that took another 6 months before they send you the official marriage ending paper…

 

One possible theory is that when they asked her how many times that I have come back to China, she said "3times" The VO said "1 time". She repeated "3 times" again. At this point, VO asked for photos but he didn't even look at them. I have been back 2 times since I have known her. The one other time I went back to China was 1992. At the time, we kind of know of each other.

 

A.2.18.7

They said I sent too much money to my husband ,because I make so little ... My husband got denied for this - they want a statement from me stating why i sent him so much....

 

A.2.18.8  [CR1 interview – 11/2005]

she asked my wife numerous questions and looked at everything my wife had brought in detail. Finally, she found her power trip reason for denial. Among the top 10 questions posted here is "how many times has your SO visited you." Anticipating that question and knowing I had only been there once to marry my wife, I wrote a letter of explanation and had it notarized. Further, as added incentive for the VO, I offered letters of reference and recommendation from family and friends. 25 of them to be exact!! Well, the VO saw where I stated in my letter that I was not entitled to vacation in my job and would have lost my job if I made follow-on visits. So she blue slipped my wife and stated for us to bring a letter from my employer stating I was not entitled to vacation as I had said in my letter.

 

 

A.2.18.8

From 001:

1.       The lady, from 001, brought her personal, notorized documents 3 days more than 6 months old. She was given a blue slip for this. My SO says 001 ladies know this rule but this lady didn't care. Estimated wait for an attorney to re-notorize in Nanning is 15 days.

2.        The husband was issued a blue slip. Reason? The wife was mad at him some time in the past. She sent GUZ an e-mail "please stop this case." Later, she sent a retraction e-mail but now the husband must prove the relationship. The nature of the proof is unknown to me.

 

A.2.18.9

Even if the VO has some foreknowledge, that does not mean there is an automatic blue slip. There were two interviews with the same VO before Jie went up. The VO spent maybe 5 to 7 minutes with each one. Probably the VO was asking many many questions about something she saw in the file, or something she does not understand about the relationship.

I guess we feel that the VO saw something in the paperwork, in the file, and was trying to get clarification and understanding, and so she asked many questions. Depending on the answers, I suppose she will give a red or a blue. But my point is, it was apparant that she did not shut the case down from the start and send them on their way... Jie felt the VO was really saw something was not right, was trying to gain information and clarification, and then give a red or blue depending on the answers.

In those two cases, after 5 to 7 minutes each, blue slips were given.

 

A.2.18.10

(Interview March 2006)

The initial interview wasn't an interview at all. Sounded like it was predetermined. Basically the VO asked if Aiai spoke English and she responded "a little". The Vo paged through our documents and handed them back and said we will need a video. We immediately rescheduled a follow up date that was set for 2/27. We had the video shot and she returned to Guangzhou and handed the documents and video to VO and was informed to return om 3/1 for a decision. Upon her return she was given the infamous red slip and told Congratulations.

 

BLUE SLIP ISSUES:  Request video

 

OUTCOME:  Video provided at Overcome.  Visa issued.

 

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 9 July 2005)

Q.2.19 Where can I view the denial code?

A.2.19.1

http://www.immigrationapplication.com/classes.htm



----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 9 July 2005)

 

 

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 1 May 2006)

Q.2.20 Where can I get information about my denial and appealing ?

 

How Do I Appeal the Denial of My Petition or Application?

http://www.uscis.gov/graphics/howdoi/RepealDenial.htm

 

 

Appealing the Denial of My Petition or Application

http://www.foreignborn.com/visas_imm/both/2appeal-denial.htm

 

 

Security Name Checks and Administrative Review:

http://www.usaimmigrationattorney.com/SecurityNameChecksAndAdministrativeReview.html

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
===================================================================
===================================================================
===================================================================

Section two: Questions related to Guangzhou Consulate and travel, flight, hotel
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Q.3.1 Guangzhou Consulate ?
Q.3.2 Where can I get information on GUZ?
Q.3.3 Where should we stay, Hotel Information?
Q.3.4 Where is the Guangzhou Consulate? Map?
Q.3.5 Flight Information?
Q.3.6 Checking domestic flights in China?
Q.3.7 Guangzhou Airport?
Q.3.8 Methods of travel to Guangzhou from Hong Kong?
Q.3.9 Once we get the visa, can we travel through HK to the US?
Q.3.10 How do we ship items from China to the US?
Q.3.11 How can I send money to China , to US ?
Q.3.12 Can I get my SOs passport notarized in china for tax purposes (IRS ITIN, W-7)?
Q.3.13 I have an ITIN for my wife for tax year 2004, do I need to file a new ITIN for filing tax year 2005?

 

 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 10 Feb 2006)

 

Q.3.1 GuangzhouConsulate ?

A.3.1.1

US Consulate in Guangzhou

美国驻广州总领事馆


Home Page:

English (
英文版):
http://guangzhou.usconsulate.gov/index.html


Chinese (
中文版):
http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzhou/index-c.html


Immigration Visa Unit:
http://guangzhou.usconsulate.gov/immigrant_visas.html



DS-### Forms to download in english or Chinese:
http://guangzhou.usconsulate.gov/newform.html



Contact Information:
http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzhou/cg/index.html


Email:
http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzhou/iv/contact.html


Holiday Schedule:
http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzhou/cg/holiday.html


Lost or Stolen Passport
http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzhou/cons/pass.html



Address and Contact Information:


The US Consulate General in Guangzhou
No. 1 Shamian South Street
Guangzhou, PRC 510133
Tel: (86-20) 8121-8000
Fax: (86-20) 8121-9001

美国驻广州总领事馆
中国广东省广州市沙面南街1
邮编510133
电话: (86-20) 8121-8000 传真:(86-20) 8121-9001


New IV Unit Address:
5th floor-2nd annex
Tian Yu Garden
136-142, Lin He
Zhong Road, Guangzhou.
Tel: (86-20) 8518-7605
Fax: (86-20) 3884-4412

广州市天河区林和中路136-146号天誉花园(二期)5



American Citizen Services
Tel: (86-20) 8518-7605
Fax: (86-20) 3884-4410
Email: GuangzhouACS@state.gov

phone # from the US - 011 8620 8121 8000


Emergency Services
If you have an emergency during our office hours, please call the Consulate at (86-20) 8518-7605.

Emergencies include medical problems, arrests and deaths relating of American Citizens. After-hours emergency assistance may be obtained by calling the Consulate Duty Officer at (86) 020-8121-6077.

If the visa information does not match the passport information then use their website to contact them (I wouldn't because it would take too long for a response) or fax them at:

Emergency Fax #: 020-38844412



Case information:
You can access limited case specific information - confirm Visa Petition arrival at post and verify interview date - at the National Visa Information Call enter (a for fee service). See www.usavisainformation.com.cn/eng/index.aspx.

Call CenterAppointments
( China) 4008-872-333
(International) 86-21-3881-4611

This is a pay service and you have to sign up on the webpage at http://www.usavisainformation.com.cn

You need your case #, and need to get a pin #.


Visa Information Center


Call Center Info (English):
http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzho...callcenter.html

Call Center info (Chinese):
http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzhou/niv/c/


Charge may be paid at any CITIC Bank office or on the Internet at:
https://www.usavisainformation.com.cn/eng/index.aspx

Once the charge is paid, you will be given a PIN number that must be given to the Visa Information Center when you call to verify the payment. The U.S. Visa Information Call Center currently can assist callers in Mandarin, Cantonese, Taishanese, and English.


Information Payment Service

Payment Info (English):
https://www.usavisainformation.com.cn/eng/index.aspx

Payment Info (Chinese):
http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzho...callcenter.html


For general inquiries regarding the Visa Information Center Service, you can call our Customer Service Helpdesk 86 21 50623880. This service is available from 8am to 5pm Monday through Friday, excluding Chinese Public Holidays. This service is currently answered in Mandarin only. Please note that specific information relating to US VISA service and Non Immigrant Visa appointments will not be provided by the Customer Service Helpdesk. This information should be obtained by calling 4008-872-333. For technical issues, please email to technical.support@usavisainformation.com.cn


CFL Comments on Call Center:

 

New Call Center, is it any good?

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=13949

 

 

 


VISA DENIAL / OVERCOME

Overcome visa application refusal, A new twist to the process
http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=12599


New Procedure for Additional Material Submission
http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzho...new.html#addmat

Starting September 15, applicants asked to submit additional materials for their immigrant visa will need to schedule an appointment. Please call the U.S. Visa Information Center at 4008-872-333 within China or 86-21-3881-4611 from other countries, from 7 A.M. to 7 P.M. (Monday - Friday) and 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. (Saturday) for an appointment. Applicants must provide: names in Chinese characters and pin yin, case number, ID card number, passport number, phone number, and date of birth. There is a charge to access the Visa Information Center. Prices are 54 RMB for 12 minutes or 36 RMB for 8 minutes. The Visa Information Center charge may be paid at any CITIC Bank office or on the Internet at https://www.usavisainformation.com.cn/eng/index.aspx. Once the charge is paid, you will be given a PIN number that must be given to the Visa Information Center when you call to verify the payment. The U.S. Visa Information Call Center currently can assist callers in Mandarin, Cantonese, Taishanese, and English.


Overcome Collection Hours

Our overcome document collection hours will be changed to 2pm - 3pm any Monday through Wednesday (except holidays) beginning May 16, 2005. Our consular services are moving to a new location; schedule changes and the new location address will be announced by July 18. For the latest updates, please check our website http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzhou/iv/new.html.

 

 


Call Center Requires PIN #
- You can buy minutes from China directly from a chinese bank.
- You can buy minutes from the US, using the online service and using your credit card (ie: Visa card). There is no reference to any beneficiary..your just buying a calling card PIN number.

- When you call the Call Center, you'll use the PIN number... once you talk to a person, then you will be asked who this is in reference to...

 


Examples of Steps to take:
1. You make an appointment with the consulate for submitting docs to overcome denial.
Your wife can buy a prepay card from her local Citic Bank, there are RMB54 or RMB36 cards available. They charge for making an appointment.
Prepare the following information before making a call:
1). Her passport number
2). her name, both in Chinese and pin yin, her birthdate and ID number which are on her passport
3). Her Case Number which begins with GUZ 200.....,
Visa category (CR1, I believe)
Date of denial
Then their call center will give her an Appointment Number and the date to submit docs

2. She will get the result in two days.
The result is possibly to be:
1). Ok, red slip, she can pick up her visa in two days
2). They want more docs or any stuff they can brainstorm
3). The case be returned to DHS
4). Depends on the VO


IMMIGRANT VISA PICK UP NOTICE / U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL

美国驻广州总领事馆移民签证领取通知

http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzho...or%20tianyu.htm


Jun Yuan Post Office
155 Tianhe East Road
Guangzhou, China

Telephone: 020-38188078

地址:广州市天河东路155号骏源邮局。联系电话:020-38188078


Travel and Security
Up-to-date information on security conditions can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 in the U.S. and for callers outside the U.S. and Canada a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.

Americans living or traveling in Xinjiang Autonomous Region are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy in Beijing through the State Department's travel registration website:

The State Department's travel registration website:
https://travelregistration.state.gov/

Americans without Internet access may register directly with the U.S. Embassy by calling (86)(10) 6532-3431 x5344. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.

U.S. citizens planning to travel to China should consult the Department of State's country-specific Public Announcements, Travel Warnings, Consular Information Sheets
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1765.html

The Worldwide Caution Public Announcement
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_1161.html

Other information, available at:
http://travel.state.gov/

---

USCIS, NVC, DOS

P1 and P2 stage:
USCIS online case status:
https://egov.immigration.gov/cris/jsps/index.jsp

NVC Stage:
National Visa Center(NVC)
1-603-334-0700 Call after NOA2 they will give you the GUZ# and do the Security Check.

Try to call the NVC number, 603-334-0700.

Press 1 (for English)

Press 1 (for Immigrant Visa status)

Press 1 (for CIS receipt number - from your VSC NOA2 - I-797 form) or
Press 2 (for your NVC case number - you do not have this yet)


You can call anytime , so try 603-334-0700 then press 1 - 1 - 1 and enter your CIS receipt number. If the NVC has received your petition and assigned a case number the NVC automated system will tell your your wife's NVC case number. After you have this, you can now use the case number to check the status of your case at the NVC (if you do not need to talk to a live person).


NVC Shipments to GUZ Stage
Shipments to GUZ

DHL at 1-800-225-5345.
When I got a human, I gave them the NVC address (32 Rochester Ave Portsmouth, N.H. ZIP CODE 03801-2909)

Guangzhou is US Consulate No. 1 Shamian Street, Guangzhou, PRC ZIP CODE 510133.

The most important parts to DHL are the zip codes.


P3, P4, and Interview Stage
Department of State (DOS)
1-202-663-1225 Call after NVC completes Security check and sends to Gunagzhou

 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 10 Jan 2006)

Q.3.2 Where can I get information on GUZ?

A.3.2.1

See the CFL GUZ forum: http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showforum=23


You can see topics on lawyers in GUZ, places to visit, hotel info, etc.

 

A.3.2.2

Chinese language with GUZ interview help from 001
http://www.laogonglaopo.com/001files/public/Interview.htm

 

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 10 Jan 2006)

Q.3.3 Where should we stay, Hotel Information?

 

A.3.3.1

A list of hotels in Guangzhou including the distances to the Consulate, prices, star ratings and reservation telephone numbers…

[Inchinese]

http://www.laogonglaopo.com/001files/publi...rafficHotel.htm



A.3.3.2
List of Guangzhou hotels and room rates:
http://www.guangzhouhotel.com/bestrates.htm



A.3.3.3

A CFL previous thread and another CFL previous thread   on hotels in Guangzhou.

 

 

A.3.3.4

Stay on Shamian Island at either the Victory, Shamian, or White Swan hotels.  The three hotels are all within about 6 to 10 minutes peaceful walk to the Consulate. This is important because you have to go to the Consulate at least 3 times over a 2 day period.

 

White Swan Hotel will pick you up at the airport free of charge. Best hotel in China, but at about $80.00 US more than twice the price of the Bai Ling (where we stayed) Still, for a genuine 4 Star, a steal!

 

The main Victory Hotel is about 6-7 blocks away from the consulate and is nice for 380 yuan a day.   http://www.vhotel.com/

020-8121 6688 address is: no. 56 Sha MianBei street

 

Victory Hotel annex:  It is clean but not fancy and about 4 blocks from the Consulate. 280 yuan a day.  Internet connection speed is very fast. 

The Shamian Hotel is OK – 238 RMB. a night. Nothing fance, but a nice staff and clean.

Tel: 020-8121 8288 add.: no. 52 sha mian nan street


A.3.3.5
The Ai Qun hotel is about a 15 minute walk down the river. Not a bad place. I have stayed there a few times.

Tel: 020-8186 6668-220 Add.: No. 113 Yan Jiang Xi Rd

The Ai Qun or Gitic Riverside Hotels are under $50 (400 yuan) per night. Both have good restaurants and there are many more in walking distance.

A.3.3.6
We stayed at the Guangzhou International Seamen's Club.


A.3.2.7
For those on a budget, there is the Guangzhou Youth Hostel, across the road from the White Swan. For $20 something, you get a standard hotel room, with a western bathroom. But for a place to sleep, keep your stuff safe, and have a hot shower, it's more than adequate.



---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 3 February 2005)

Q3.4 Where is the Guangzhou Consulate? Map?

A.3.4.1

 

A floor map of the Guangzhou Consulate (inside)
http://www.laogonglaopo.com/001files/public/Interview_ML.htm

Tianhe Map (outside)

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=11746

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 7 July 2005)

Q.3.5 Flight Information?

A.3.5.1

Flight websites:

http://www.cheapinternationalflights.net/

http://www.FlyChina.com

http://www.bt-store.com/

http://cheaptickets.com

http://uschinatrip.com

http://www.elong.net

 

 

Chinese based websites:

http://big5.ctrip.com/

http://www.elong.com

 

A.3.5.2

Various comments on travel agents, airlines, and prices:

 

I think China airline is cheaper. Call this # 86-010-5165-2973,u might get some good surprise. My friend just got a round trip ticket from this agency couple of weeks ago, that was $120 cheaper than the cheapest one he can find here.

 

If you must pay more than 750 direct (to go to Beijing or Shanghai) from the East Coast (NY), or 850 to Hong Kong from the east coast (or 600 from the west coast), you are paying FAR too much. Go to your local China town and talk with them.

The trick behind getting a good price like that is going through a Chinese travel agency from almost any Chinatown in the US. For mine, I went through the one in Queens, NY,

Call Sunshine Travel - Asian run travel agency in the Boston area. usually they have good price for $700 round trip

Sun Travel 818-989-8740

 

R/T LAX-GUZ-Nanning $890 April 20.

 

I have a flight from JFK to HK to GZ for 1090.00

I have always gotten the best deals from Jade Holiday Travel here in Seattle, last R/T to GUZ was $650.

I also found a NWA on 4/18 - 5/2 for $816.

I got a direct flight from Beijing to New York City for her for 490$US.

 

I just paid $525 for my fiancee to fly one-way from Shanghai to JFK airport in NYC (brief stopover in Beijing).

 

She originally booked a ticket (one way China to US) : a month in advance for about $440, 2 weeks later it was $430 and a week before departure we bought it for $420.

Northwest files to GZ.

 

Delta flies in partnership with China Southern Airlines from Los Angeles (LAX) direct to Guangzhou. Travel time is about 15 hours going and 13 hours returning.    

 

There are lots of other flights that go to Hong Kong. United, American, and Asiana all fly to Hong Kong, to name a few.

 

A.3.5.3

Do not, I repeat, do not buy your honey a round-trip ticket just because it's cheaper than a one-way. Most airlines will void the ticket if you don't show up for the first half of the ticket and you'll lose all the money for that ticket.

A.3.5.4
Do wait until she has the visa in hand to buy a one-way ticket for her. You can get pretty cheap last minute tickets there in GZ. You probably even want to buy yourself a one-way both ways so you're sure to be together and sit together and, God forbid, she gets a yellow slip and you're tied to a return flight.

A.3.5.5

A one way ticket can be bought in China for a lot less than you can buy it for here in the states. And much to my surprise, the tickets get cheaper as you get closer to the departure date!! She originally booked a ticket a month in advance for about $440, 2 weeks later it was $430 and a week before departure we bought it for $420.

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 7 July 2005)

Q.3.6 Checking domestic flights in China?

A.3.6.1

http://www.warriortours.com/china%2Dflight/

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 7 July 2005)

Q.3.7 Guangzhou Airport?

A.3.7.1

Tips: Airport Express buses --- much cheaper than cabs... Don't forget to pick up some free bottled water from the basket mid section (just in front of the middle exit)

A.3.7.2
REMEMBER ~! If you are catching an early flight out ---- DON'T BOTHER TO GET THERE EARLY!!! THE AIRPORT DOESN'T EVEN OPEN FOR BUSINESS UNTIL ABOUT 645 AM.

 

A.3.7.3

Board the #5 Airport express bus at the airport and take it to the Dong Fang Hotel. From there, take a taxi to the hotels on Shamian Island.

 

A.3.7.4

She said there are tons of kids waiting outside to shove all sorts of advertisements into any open spot on your luggage or your clothes. They pretty much swarm you like bees. So she said don't put anything of value in your pockets because she said those little hands can grab things in your pockets as well as release things.

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 7 July 2005)


Q.3.8 Methods of travel to Guangzhou from Hong Kong?

A.3.8.1
By train:
http://www.tiglion.com/english/travel/chin...ngzhou%20(East)

A.3.8.2

 

Hong Kong to Guangzhou, ... most efficient travel

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=17251

 

HK GUZ Shuttle:

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=15884

 

China Transportation, From HK to Shenzhen

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4509

 

Mainland through Hong Kong

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=12026

 

A.3.8.3

If you are on a low budget and staying in Hong Kong, don't take the high speed train to your hotel, don't bother with a taxi or shuttle bus (which you must pay for), ride the city bus. The price drops from 300+HKD to 14HKD and you get there with little or no frustration. Just make sure you know the return trip route and give yourself plenty of time.

A.3.8.4

 

GETTING A VISA FOR CHINA, IN HONG KONG:

It is very easy to get your visa in Hong Kong. First any travel agent will do it, or you can simply go to the Chinese consulate. Get one the Hong Kong subway and get off the Wan Chai stop. Go to the exhibition center. You will find this on any map in the subway...the exhibition center is a huge building that you can not miss. Once you get off the subway follow the signs to the exhibition center and there will be an over the street walkway that will take you directly there. It is a massive building. In this building there is a place call the immigration center...this is NOT what you want. This is for getting visas and residence for Hong Kong. The Chinese consulate is one block to the east of the exhibition center and is called the " China Resource Center". There are guards in the exhibition center who all speak English. They will be happy to shop you where you need to go.
Once at the China Resource center you will see a sign that says "Chinese Visas this way---->. You will then go through security and take an elevator. The correct floor is clearly marked in the elevator. Once you get off the elevator, fill out the paperwork and take a number. Once your number is called you go up to a window and give them your passport and the application. If you get the same day service you can come back in a few hours to pick it up. They also offer a nest day service and a three day service but I don't think this is what you want.
Hong Kong is probably the fastest, easiest and cheapest way to get a visa. Even though you rush the visa in Hong Kong it is cheaper than getting it at a consulate in the US.

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 1 Oct 2005)

Q.3.9 Once we get the visa, can we travel through HK to the US?

A.3.9.1

She can travel to HK during the transit to US. There is no need for special permit. She can stay in HK up to 1 week.

 

A.3.9.2

I just got a personal e-mail from an HK customs official. A seven day visa is granted at the border for any foreign visitor passing through HK in transit.

 

A.3.9.3

[My fiancée] just showed her passport to the HK customs; along with my passport (we traveled together) We did not have to show a ticket -- although I had our e-tickets to show them, if they wanted to see them. The HK customs did not ask any questions. No problems at all.

 

A.3.9.4

The K-3 visa in her passport plus an outbound flight to the US within 7 days (I think) should be enough.

 

A.3.9.5

Shekou Ferry Terminal  - 0755 26691213

 

There have the ferries directly go to HK International Airport, half hour's ride, even can check in luggages there with Cathay Pacific.

As I know passengers who are mainlands holding a valid air ticket departure from HK International Airport are not required a stamp to get on the Shekou to HK International Airport ferry.

 

 

A.3.9.6

Passport and Visa Requirements for Hong Kong

http://www.hongkong.alloexpat.com/hongkong_immigration/visa_requirements_procedure_work_permit.php

 

 

A Visa needed for my SO to go to HK?, Is this going to be a problem?

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=17003

 

 

Hong Kong Travel, Forfiance or spouse

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4643

 

 

Going Through Hong Kong, Hong Kong Visa?

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=13706

 

2nd try: SO entering HK, what does she need?

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=12920&hl=

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 1 Oct 2005)

Q.3.10 How do we ship items from China to the US?

A.3.10.1

Just filled out there estimate form for a quote.....

http://www.excess-baggage.com/

 

A.3.10.2

My SO shipped over two large boxes via China post. One made it, the other never did

 

A.3.10.3

There are a lot of variables in shipping goods from China. Each person is likely to have a very different experience. We shipped quite a bit of furniture and other things in January, about 7.5 cubic meters worth. The trip from Qingdao to Seattle took about a month. I posted details a while back, I think the cost was something like $100/cm. My wife handled the costs so I don't have the exact number. We also shipped our wedding photos from Hong Kong to Seattle. That took about half the time at a considerably lower rate (I think it was something like $25-30 for 1 cm, which is the minimum unit size). My customs broker charged $125 to clear the goods. For the big shipment, we ended up not needing the broker to clear customs-- within the first year of immigration, you can ship "personal goods" here free from duty. But the broker helped out in a variety of ways, from generating all the forms needed, to hooking us up with a shipping company. Getting the goods out of China was a major hassle, though. My wife had to go to the customs house, and needed all sorts of documentation, including some that we ultimately had to fake, because we couldn't figure out what they were asking for. This caused her a lot of stress, as I remember clearly!

Anyway, I'd say the big shipment probably cost us about $1000, once you include all the fees, the U-haul to take it home, etc. I have no doubt, however, that we came out ahead when you look at the furniture she brought and the price she paid for it all in China. The condition it comes in really depends on you, since you are the one packing it. My wife hired some people to do it, and it got here pretty much in good shape (a minor scratch here or there).

 

A.3.10.4

 

China Post Update

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=21012

 

Shipping Goods from China, ....explain your experience and thots

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=12212

 

"immigrant paper", any ideas what this is?

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=7675

 

Luggage question, for people moving from China

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=15979

 

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 10 Nov 2005)

 

Q.3.11 How can I send money to China , to US (and other mailing issues) ?

 

 

A.3.11.1

Sending Money, CFL Thread collection

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?act=ST&f=7&t=11225&st=0#entry132304

 

 

A.3.11.2

Other mailing issues:

 

 

UPS and Notary

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=19314

 

 

Mailing nice gifts to china

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=14327&hl=mailing

 

 

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 19 Feb 2006)

 

Q.3.12 Can I get my SOs passport notarized in china for tax purposes (IRS ITIN, W-7)?

 

A.3.12.1

I just returned from China and brought with me my wife's Chinese passport. I immediately had her passport notarized here in the U.S. and mailed it back by U.S. Express Mail.

If you want the American Consulate to notarize it, then I read somewhere that she has to go the American Consulate in China. I am not sure whether the Consulate would let her in without you being there. She can call the Consulate and ask the question herself.

 

A.3.12.2

The consulate cannot Notarize her Chinese document, I just asked when I was there. She has to go home, get a notarized copy from her local gov. Then return to the consulate with the copy. I was trying to accomplish the same thing. The US consulate sent me down to the 4th floor of the Guz building to the Chinese public affairs office. They told us the above information

 

A.3.12.3

When I first inquired with the IRS, they told me that copy of your SO's passport needs to be notarized by a US notary. They did tell me that you could send the original with the W-7 and they would send it back, but I did not want to chance it. Just take the original and copy to the notary so they can see the two are the same. When I sent my 1040, the W-7 for my wife and the copy of her passport, I had no trouble getting my refund.

 

A.3.12.4

I had to get my SO's passport notarized for tax purposes last year and we went to the US consulate. They instead said that there was no need to actually get it notarized - instead they wanted to see her original passport, then they made a copy of it and put a consulate stamp on the copies which said something along the lines of 'original seen and returned' - then it was signed by the consular officer. It was sufficient for us to do the W-7. I asked several times if it needed to be notarized and they kept stressing that the consular stamp was sufficient - it also didn't cost us anything.

 

A.3.12.5

I just completed this whole process in the end of February and have already received the refund. Fortunately I was in Taiwan for Chinese New Years and knew I was going to have to get copies of my wife's passport notarized/certified so I had it done at AIT in Taipei and I had our marriage certificate and MY passport certified here at a local bank. I shipped all of the forms to the IRS office and they processed them, sent me my wife's new taxpayer ID number and I got the refund a few days later. Very painless except for the $30 I had to pay AIT which is the US State Department for a notary fee.

 

A.

More info:

 

To W-7 or not to W-7

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=15992

 

Filing W-7 ITIN for federal taxes, Notarized copy of passport?

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=17231

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 31 Jan 2006)

 

 

Q.3.13 I have an ITIN for my wife for tax year 2004, do I need to file a new ITIN for filing tax year 2005?

 

No.

 

 

 

EOF