A Candle for Love – P4 FAQ



CONTENTS:

1) Section 1: General questions related to the Packet 4 (P4)

 

 

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)     CFL EZ_FAQ

1.     CFL Visa FAQ

2.     CFL DCF FAQ

3.     CFL P3 FAQ

4.     CFL P4 FAQ

5.     CFL Interview FAQ

6.     CFL Interview Questions FAQ

7.     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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P4 Frequently Asked Questions.

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Section One: General Questions.
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Q.1.1 What is a FAQ?
Q.1.2 What is a P4?
Q.1.3 At what stage of the visa process does the P4 occur?
Q.1.4 Who sends and who receives the P4?
Q.1.5 What are the documents contained in a P4?
Q.1.6 Where can I find sample P4 forms?
Q.1.7 Can we use sample or downloaded P4 forms?
Q.1.8 How long until we receive the P4 from the Consulate?
Q.1.9 How long after we return the P3 until the Interview?
Q.1.10 How do I find out the status of P4?
Q.1.11 Can I check my status on line? I have the case number?
Q.1.12 What's next after the P4?
Q.1.13 How long after we get the P4 until the Interview?
Q.1.14 Can we get the Hospital exam done before we receive the P4?
Q.1.15 Where can I get my medical exam?
Q.1.16 What information can you give me about the medical exam?
Q.1.17 What should be brought to the medical exam?
Q.1.18 My P4 only had one medical form, but I need one for my child?
Q.1.19 Where can I find some information on vaccination requirements?
Q.1.20 Recommendations concerning vaccinations?
Q.1.21 Does the doctor or hospital need the I-134?
Q.1.22 "Certification of legal capacity and intent to marry" form?
Q.1.23 Chinese and English forms?
Q.1.24 Two copies of each form?
Q.1.25 If my wife is pregnant, will her application be expedited?
Q.1.26 Can I delay my interview?
Q.1.27 Where can I pay the visa fee?
Q.1.28 What order should I pay for medical exam and visa fees?
Q.1.29 Fees?


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The Answers.
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Section One: General Questions
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(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.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 3 January 2005)

Q.1.2 What is a P4?

A.1.2.1
Abbreviation for "Packet 4"

A.1.2.2
After the P3 for your fiancée/Wife/Husband has reached the U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou, these are the next set of instructions and documents that the Consulate will send that will need to be followed, filled out, and brought with you to the medical check and Interview. If your P4 documents come from somewhere else, the rest of this FAQ may be helpful, but instructions and forms might be different based on the visa type, consulate and country.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 9 January 2005)

Q.1.3 At what stage of the visa process does the P4 occur.

A.1.3.1
After you have returned the P3.

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(Edited 14 June 2004)

Q.1.4 Who sends and who receives the P4?

A.1.4.1

K1, K3:
The U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou sends the P4 to the Chinese beneficiary.

 

A.1.4.1, K3:

After the NVC or Consulate Abroad receives the above forms and supporting documents (which may not all be required to mail back at that time), an interview date will be scheduled for the intending immigrant at a consulate abroad. The NVC or the consulate abroad will send your relative a letter indicating at what time and day the interview is scheduled for, and of required forms that must be brought to the interview

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 8 Feb 2006)

Q.1.5 What are the documents contained in a P4?

A.1.5.1
Read the Guanzhou Consulate Forms and Packets page:
http://guangzhou.usembassy-china.org.cn/forms_and_packets.htm

A.1.5.2
Here is a list of documents based on CFL members:

P4 Contents for K1:


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 (GIV-1)
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 fiancée visa application (DS-156K)

A.1.5.3
K-1 gets a bunch of forms in P-4.
K-3 gets only the interview letter.

 

P4 contents for CR1:

1. P4 Appointment letter with interview date
2. Appointment letter for immigrant visa applications (OF-171)
3.
DS-230, part II
4. Important notice in Chinese for photograph specifications (GIV-1)
5.
Important Notice to Immigrant Applicants Concerning Vaccinations requirements
6.
Family composition sheet (GIV-24)
7. Medical examination instructions (GIV-8)
8.
Medical examination for immigrant or refugee applicant (DS-2053)
9.
Chest X-ray and classification worksheet (DS-3024)
10.
Vaccination documentation worksheet (DS-3025)
11.
Medical history and physical examination worksheet (DS-3026)

 

A.1.5.4  (various comments for K1 list)

We filled out #5, 7, 13 (DS-156, DS-157, two copies of each, one for the interview and one for the medical exam hospital), 14.    #8 through #12 were for the medical exam.

The DS-156, 156k, and 157 have been provided in both English and Chinese versions.

you should fill GIV-24 in both English and Chinese. For question #7, I think just city and state should be good enough

Yes. Fill out both forms 2 English and 2 Chinese for DS-156 and 2 English and 2 Chinese for DS-157. Make at total of 8 forms.

A tip by one of the nurses sent us in a mad rush to the bank where we paid the visa fee and (I am not sure why) had extra blank DS-156 and DS-157 forms on hand.

For #8 we filled out the name and address in English on the Chinese version of the DS157.

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(Edited 8 Nov 2005)

Q.1.6 Where can I find sample P4 forms?


Visa Forms

DOS - Immigration Forms

DOS - Official Forms

GUZ - Current Forms and Packets for K1/K2/K3/K4, Packet 3, Packet 4, SB1 (Returning Resident)

VJ - Download Section for Visa, AOS, and other forms

VJ - USCIS Example Forms: (for K-1, K-3, AOS, and Removal of Conditions)

CFL - CFL forms

"Expiration date" shown on forms

Note that any "expiration date" listed on a form is NOT that form's expiration date, but the Office of Management and Budget approval expiration date as required by the Paperwork Reduction act. Data is collected and submitted to the OMB in order to track its usage. A form may contain a notation such as:

Approved OMB 1405-0134
Expires 11/30/2011
Estimated Burden 1 Hour*

but the form may be used beyond 11/30/2011 unless the new instructions specifically state otherwise. Of course, it's best to try to locate the most recent version of any form you submit.
A.1.6.1
CFL

VisaPro Fillable Forms:

http://www.visapro.com/INS-Forms-Download.asp



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(Edited 15 February 2005)

Q.1.7 Can we send sample or downloaded P4 forms?

A.1.7.1

Probably in a pinch, you should copy your forms immediately after receiving them so you have ones to practice or replace with.

A.1.7.2
Just as an update, when my honey found out that she did not have enough forms, she also sent GZ a fax explain the lack of forms and requested more forms for her K2. GZ promptly sent her another full package that she received within 2 days.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 7 Nov 2005)

Q.1.8 How long until we receive the P4 from the Consulate?

A.1.8.1.
Currently the average wait time is 100 days from P3 to P4. It usually arrives via EMS (Express Mail Service) from the Guangzhou Consulate.

 


-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 7 Nov 2005)

Q.1.9 How long after we return the P3 until the Interview?

A.1.9.1
On average, expect about 142 days.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 24 June 2005)

Q.1.10 How do I find out the status of P4?

A.1.10.1
Call 1-202-663-1225 That is DOS's (Department of State) phone number.
If Guangzhou sent you the response that it will be a few months before you are scheduled for an interview, then it is assumed that you have made it past the second name check and in the waiting queue. If Guangzhou sent you an email saying that they are in the pre-interview process then you are not in the queue for waiting yet.

A.1.10.2

When calling DOS (to get the date of the name check was complete), you will need to ask them "what is the date GZ was told the SO is eligible to be scheduled for the interview?"


A.1.10.3
I found the best time to call DOS is when they open the phone lines. It usually takes 5 to 15 minutes if you call at 0830 EST.
I've called them so many times over the last four months. It seems that only females work there, or at least in the mornings. I was told that they all don't have the same clearance when they log into their work stations. Some are authorized to view more when they pull up your case on their computer. One women I spoke to in September gave me the date the final name check was cleared in the computer. A few days later when I called back, the woman that I spoke to couldn't give me any dates or much less tell me if the name checks were done, and was confused as to how anyone in that office could have given me that information. Later in November, I spoke to another woman who explained that most of the people in their office only have limited clearance, enough to see if your case has been logged into GUZ, but not much else unless GUZ puts a notification that the can see. She said sometimes GUZ puts markers on the file that indicate to the people in that DOS office that they name check was completed, but it won't show a date. She told me that there are some, but very few, who have clearance to actually see dates and progress. She also told me that all the email's anyone sends to GUZ are listed on the computer file that the DOS office can see also, as well as all the inquiries submitted by Congress persons, Representatives, and Senators.
The others above were right, just keep calling until you find a person who can give you more information. But I wouldn't keep calling the same day, because it's been my experience that they only have a few people answering phones at any given time. I swear one day they only had three people answering phones from 0830-1000 EST. I was upset by one of them, and I kept calling back trying to get someone else to help me. I kept getting the same three women, so I gave up and called the next day.

 


-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 30 March 2005)

Q.1.11 Can I check my status on line? I have the case number.

A.1.11.1
No, you can't check anything online. But you can use the GUZ case number to email GZ and ask about your case status. Go to the Guangzhou consulate contact web page to send email.

http://guangzhou.usembassy-china.org.cn/contactiv.html

You can get your GUZ number by calling DOS 1-202-663-1225, press 1, then 0, then 0, Give them your SO's name, Birth date and NOA2 number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 12 February 2005)

Q.1.12 What's next after the P4?

A.1.12.1
The Interview.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 24 June 2005)

Q.1.13 How long after we get the P4 until the Interview?

A.1.13.1
Average time is 30 to 45 days. That is from the date of the P4 to the date of the Interview.

 

 

 

 

 

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

Q.1.14 Can we get the Hospital exam done before we receive the P4?

A.1.14.1
No, you can not do the physical test before you get the P4 even you already know which hospital to go. When you go to one of the hospitals listed, you will have to bring those related forms with you, you won't be able to get those forms until you receive your P4. You need the appointment letter showing the date of your interview.
And make sure you must bring your passport with you when you do the physical check. without your passport, some hospitals will refused to do physical check for you.


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 4 July 2005)

Q.1.15 Where can I get my medical exam?

A.1.15.1

Consulate Guangzhou website:

GUZ - Forms and Packets (Check here for most recent versions - the links to older versions may still work even after a new version is posted)


GUZ - Medical Exam Instructions in English and Chinese (includes list of designated hospitals)

GUZ - Vaccination Instructions (for I-130 visas. K-visas may also reference this if they choose to get their vaccinations in China)

GUZ - Appointment Instructions for Immigrant Visa Applicants - K-Visas

IV Appointment Instructions - CR/IR Visas

GUZ - K Non-immigrant Visa Application fees (paid at Citic bank prior to Medical). The fees listed are out of date. However, the list of bank branches may prove helpful.

 

A.1.15.2

GUZ Hospitals:

Fujian Provincial Hospital
#134 Dongjie, Fuzhou, Fujian
Tel: (0591) 7557768-8065 (for appointment)
Price: RMB1200 for adult, RMB800 for child

Health Care Center of Guangzhou
#33 Shamian North Street, Shamian Island,
Guangdong International Travel Tel: (020) 81219500, 81219513
Price: RMB800 for adult, RMB500 for child

First Hospital of Guangzhou
#151 Yan Jiang Xi Road, Guangzhou
Medical College Tel: (020)83337750-7098
Price: RMB600 for adult, RMB300 for child

 

MEMBER NOTES:  [ 5/22/2006]

just did her medical exam and HIV testing in Shanghai yesterday. She told me that right now both medical exam and HIV testing are conducted at Shanghai First People's Hospital.

 

 

 

Health Care Center of Guangdong International Travel,  CR1 experience

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=13951&view=findpost&p=169314



A.1.15.7

SHANGHAI:

 

K1 - Med Exam: our experience in Shanghai, Pretty good one, really!

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=15206

 

CR1 - Shanghai Hospital Procedure explained:

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=10744

 

CR1 - Medical Examination and Vaccination, in Shanghai and maybe elsewhere

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=13440

 

 

 

A.1.15.8

BEIJING:

 

Medical exam in Beijing, What forms should she bring??

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=8873

 

K1 - Medical in BJ; Pay visa in BJ

http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=12377

 

 

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(Edited 4 July 2005)

Q.1.16 What information can you give me about the medical exam?

A.1.16.1

Frankly, it is rare to have someone flunk this exam. The primary problem that the doctor is checking for would be infectious diseases that are a public health threat, the most notable of these being HIV/AIDS and active TB, however there are other factors involved that you need to read about. One other factor to consider is whether the fiancée or spouse or child of the alien relative has a disease or disorder which could lead to debilitation and inability to wok. Another factor would be whether the immigrant was a danger to himself or others (such as mental illness in which psychosis was involved and was not controlled).

 

A.16.2

I would recommend to arrive at least 5 to 7 days before the interview in Guangzhou to take care of all the preliminary stuff such as physical exam, paying fee, etc just to make sure there are no problems, especially with the physical exam. A friend of ours came damn near close to missing the interview because the clinic in Guangzhou screwed up her stuff and she had to start all over. They made her pay the fee again and also the extra fee to rush the service with her getting it finished just 1 day before the interview.

A.1.16.3

They suggest allowing 4 hours for the exam. You don't need advance appointment.   But, you don't get the results back for 3 days, which is standard because they do HIV testing and it takes 3 days for the test to do it's thing. We went Tuesday morning, and the test results were ready for pick up on Friday afternoon.

 

A.1.16.4

My SO had her exam at GZ on Wednesday (0830) March 2nd and picked up the results Thursday (0930) March 3rd. Paid 800 yuan for the exam and 100 yuan to expedite.

A.1.16.5

My fiancée also went to the Hospital near the [old] Consulate. She arrived at 9:00 AM in the morning and received her results by 5:00 PM the same day. She paid 100 RMB for expedited service. The exam was 800 RMB.

A.1.16.6

My wife went to the non-Shamian hospital. She was then informed that she needed to have injections done (Not sure about the requirements of these injections. She is CR1 and was told she needed them, at least the first of a set of three injections. The subsequent injections can be gotten in the US.). The only hospital that does the injections is the one on Shamian. So she had her body check at the non-Shamian hospital, and then she went to the Shamian hospital to have the injections.

 

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(Edited 20 Oct 2005)

Q.1.17 What should be brought to the medical exam?

A.1.17.1

Each person who is examined must bring a passport and four (4) photographs of themselves to give to the examining physician.

 

A.1.17.2

My fiancée had to have this letter [P4 Appointment letter] at her medical because they asked to see it, and the guard asked for it as well standing in line at the consulate the day of the interview..   Here was the wording on the letter: This letter must be presented upon your arrival at this office on the appointment date.”

 

A.1.17.3

Some ladies forgot their passport and appointment letter and had to go back to the hotel and get them.

You will need the marriage certificate…

 

A.1.17.4

Consulate Guangzhou webpage:

GUZ - Medical Exam Instructions in English and Chinese (includes list of designated hospitals)

At the time of your medical exam, please bring all the documents listed on Form OF-171, Appointment Letter for Immigrant Visa Applicants (K3/K4 applicants please refer to "Letter to K3/K4 Applicants"; V applicants please refer to "Letter to V Applicants"), with you to the designated clinic or hospital. The staff there will help to put these materials in order, and then return them to you in a sealed envelope which is to be opened only by the Consulate staff at the time of interview.  If it appears opened prior to the interview, you risk getting a denial by the VO. Your signature will be required to indicate your participation in the process.

 

A.1.17.5

K1, K3:
1) Four (4) passport pictures (print name on back)
2) Beneficiary Passport
3) P4 Appointment letter (make copies; give them a copy if they will accept it)
4) P3 collected docs from OF-169 checklist (divorce, police, marriage, police certificates, etc -- make copies)
5) P4 (K1 list) (make copies)
a. DS-156 in duplicate: 2 in English ; 2 in Chinese ;  (sign); attached (2) passport photos of beneficiary to each (total of 4 pics)
b. DS-156K in English ; (do not sign ; beneficiary will sign at consulate)
c. DS-157 in duplicate: 2 in English ; 2 in Chinese ; (no signature needed; no signature block)
d. GNI-2 , Supplemental Form (do not sign ; beneficiary will sign at consulate)
e. GIV-24 , Family Composition Sheet (sign)
f. Medical docs from P4
g. Certification of legal capacity and intent to marry (K1: do not sign; beneficiary will sign at consulate)
6) Have blank forms for P4 docs (in case something is wrong)

 

Optional consideration:

- If you plan to get vaccinations (which is not required and you can do them in the US):Bring any available shot records.

 

A.1.17.6

CR1:

Paperwork put in package for GUZ at 1st People's on 6-13-05 for a CR-1
Two MORE (total of 4) photos

DS-230 Part II  (only for CR1)

Divorce document (IMMIGRANT'S only)

Police

Marriage

birth certs

A COPY of the bio. pages of the passport- actual PP was checked and returned (if applicable police record)

Family Composition form (for 16 and older)

medical exam certification sheet

Also received the xray.

 

Note:

-CR/IR-1 or 2 : IF any shot records are in hand- take such to the physical.

- No need to show a visa fee receipt. This was paid at NVC.

 

A.1.17.7

The hospital noticed that the police certificate had expired and told us to get a new one- they will help out.

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 4 July 2005)

Q.1.18 My P4 only had one medical form, but I need one for my child?

A.18.1

Just make copies of the blank medical forms she got and use them for the daughter also. Guangzhou says copies are OK

 

A.18.2

Contact the hospital in GZ and they said they have blank forms. Also, if you are in GZ and planning to do the medical check in GZ before the interview, you can stop in the consulate and get blank forms.


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(Edited 8 Nov 2005)

Q.1.19 Where can I find some information on vaccination requirements?

A.1.19.1

All applicants for immigrant visas are required to have the following vaccinations if appropriate for age, medical condition or medical history:

As a fiancée (K1 visa), you are not required to fulfill this requirement at the time of your medical examination for a fiancée visa. However, you may want to do so. These vaccinations are required when you adjust status

 

A.1.19.2

She should be exempt from all of the childhood immunizations, as these are not indicated for an adult. The influenza is only given in wintertime. The Pneumococcal is only for people 65 or over. If she has a chickenpox scar on her arm, then that vaccine is not indicated. This only leaves MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) and tetanus. Amy told the doc that she had the MMR shot as a child and as a result she only had to get a tetanus shot. She showed the doc her yellow vaccination book (which has no English in it) and the doc bought her story.


Another factor is if she is in childbearing years, as this will mean that several immunizations should not be given.

 

A.1.19.3

Three of the vaccines are for children (DT/DTP, HiB, Variecella), so unless she's underage, she won't need those. If she has a chicken pox scar, then even without papers, another vaccine is medically inappropriate. Hepatitus B is only given to people in a high risk lifestyle or occupation as in a streetwalker. One of them, influenza (flu shot) is only given in wintertime. Pneumococcal is only given to people 60+ years old.  That leaves tetanus and MMR.   Don't let the "civil" surgeon screw you!!!

P.S. If you tell the doctor you plan to start a family right away, then you can avoid the MMR shot also as a live vaccine is contraindicated for a pregnant or (hopefully) soon to be pregnant woman.

 

A.1.19.4

Here at the Shanghai International Travel Center it seemed that ALL (w/o shot records) got the TD primary, MMR and Varicella.Those 19? and under got the additional Hep. A and those 60 and over got the Pneumococcal. We compared notes with several other groups- including a number of children and two over sixty- at the International Travel Center (where the shots are determined/given in two trips here). Whether they are medically appropriate or not as Steve indicates- especially the Hep.A one- that is the standard practice over here.

 

A.1.19.5

I was told that the necessary shots are tetanus, MMR, and a chicken pox vaccination if the patient has never had the chicken pox.

 

 

A.1.19.6

TB test should have been done as part of the medical exam - this is a vaccine supplement, not additional test.

 

A.1.19.7

Yes she received 3 shots although when she first asked about them during her phone appointment, they told her that she didn’t need them and that she would be wasting her money.. I told her that she will need them later once she’s here in the states and that it was cheaper to get them there... she told them she wanted the shots and they gave them to her. at the hospital in Fuzhou.

 

 

Editor:  Once in the US, finding a civil surgeon (CS) who will sign off on the shots and not require a physical can cause you a handful of calls.  It is recommended that if you do not have any proof of the chicken pox vaccination, but your SO has the scar on her arm,  have them perform a blood test and validate in the vaccination book or in writing that she is ok. 

 

Also, a few CS require the second course of MMR.  So if you have one done in china, consider whether you want to get the second one prior to visiting a CS or not.  You’ll need 28 days between those shots.

 

A.1.19.8

More info:

 

AOS vaccinations, instructions to civil surgeons
http://candleforlove.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=12980 - broken

 

DOS - Vaccination Requirements for IV Applicants


For a person who has had no vaccines or whose vaccines are not up to date, do all doses of the required vaccines need to be given to complete the immigrant medical exam?

Because completion of the vaccine series often requires several months, immigrant applicants are not required to receive all doses of the required vaccines as part of the immigrant medical exam. Rather, applicants are required to receive at least one dose of each vaccine that is appropriate for their age group. They are also encouraged to receive as many added doses as needed to complete the series.

CDC FAQ

The CDC sets the vaccination requirements, and is the ONLY site to go to for up-to-the-minute information (vaccination requirements MAY change - although they rarely do)

Some who have received the BCG vaccinations in China may register a false positive for TB - http://www.mayoclini...s-and-diagnosis

An interesting update Oct., 2009 -

'CDC' said

To fulfill the requirement of testing for cell-mediated immunity to TB, civil surgeons may now administer an interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) or a TST. Interferon gamma release assays are blood tests that measure a component of cell-mediated immune reactivity to Mycobacterium tuberculosis in fresh whole blood. CDC allows the use of QuantiFERON-TB Gold®, QuantiFERON®-TB Gold In Tube (QFT-G IT), and T-SPOT®. The civil surgeon should administer only one type of test for cell-mediated immunity (TST, QuantiFERON-TB Gold®, QuantiFERON®-TB Gold In Tube [QFT-G IT], or T-SPOT®) to each applicant.


http://www.cdc.gov/i...ron_option.html  

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(Edited 8 Nov 2005)

Q.1.20 Recommendations concerning vaccinations?

A.1.20.1
It is not required for a K-1 because this is a 90 day visa only and at the end of the visa time period, the holder must return to their country of origin if they do not legally married. Hence the government does not require them to be done prior to entering the US. Some people chose to have them done in China before coming into to the US because it is less expensive.

A.1.20.2
vaccination for k1 is not required; however you may also consider having it done while in China since this is needed anyway for her AOS after she is in the U.S. It is more affordable to have the vaccination done in China.   Make sure no pregnancy in the first 3 months after she gets the vaccination.

 

A.1.20.3

This is what the Chinese doctors will tell you. However, our obstetrician says it is purely hypothetical and speculative, he sees no problems with her getting pregnant before the three months were up.

 

A.1.20.4

I suggest that after passing the interview, walk down to the clinic on Shamanian Island and have them done there. You can get them done on a walk-in basis. They will give you the yellow international vaccination card. It takes only a few minutes.
Just present the yellow card (well actually a little booklet) to the civil surgeon in the US and they will complete the vaccination supplement that you need for the AOS process.

 

A.1.20.5

Mine got hers in Guangzhou just after the Consulate approved her visa. She received 5 vaccinations for which we were charged about US $30. If she got those in the US she probably would have paid easily $200 or more. They aren't required to get into the US on the K1 but they are required later for the AOS.

A.1.20.6

When we filed AOS and XXX had to get her shots, Minnesota wanted MMR, Tetanus And Hep B. You get a list of civil surgeons and the clinics they work at. It takes 3 months to get done as one is a 2 part series of shots. The hard part at least here in Minnesota is finding a clinic to give the shots; many would only do so after she had a 500 dollar physical. If you can get them done in China it is much better. But remember to get the Yellow Card of Vaccinations. It is recognized thru out the world. Then you have the card to show for proof of vaccinations.

 

A.1.20.7

For a CR/IR-1, the shots (if required by the International Care Center) will have to be completed to get the medical signed off. In other words, get P-4, go to the medical, they will direct you to the International Care Center for vaccinations, they *seem* to determine and administer the shots, do issue the travel cert and yellow international shot record, go back to the medical and get final sign off.

I will note that at least in GUZ you can use them for BOTH the medical AND vaccinations (one of two authorized medical locations)- most other locations they are separate facilities.

 

A.1.20.8

After passing the interview, we went to the Guangdong International Travel Clinic on Shamain Island.  There she asked for and received the vaccinations required.  They gave her an international vaccination card with the stamps of the vaccinations that she received in both english and chinese.  It was a small yellow booklet

 

A.1.21.9

One thing to consider is it may not be a good idea to get the vaccinations before the interview. If there is a long delay or you have an extended wait for AOS it may expire.

 

Editor: If you plan to do vaccinations at same time and location as exam, check ahead with the medical facility to see that they can do both.     See editors note in previous question.

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 24 June 2005)

Q.1.21 Does the doctor or hospital need the I-134?

A.1.21.1
You can send the notarized I-134 and supporting documents in a sealed envelope directly the VO at the consulate.
There is no requirement to provide private financial information to a medical person at a private clinic.

 

A.1.21.2

The I-134 Affidavit is filled out by the US Citizen when used for K1 visa applications. The US Citizen should send the completed I-134 Affidavit to the fiancée for use in the interview in Guangzhou.

 

A.1.21.3

Fujian Provincial Hospital

No “Intent” letter requested when compiling papers for SO; no I-134 was asked for.

Vaccinations shots from
Healthcare Center of Fujian International Travel

 

A.1.21.4

The Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou (the cheap one) and they didn't ask for ours. I still have it in a file book with my I-134, tax records, and the other ton of stuff never asked for

 

A.1.21.5

First Hospital of Guangzhou.   They did not ask for the I-134.

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 24 June 2005)

Q.1.22 "Certification of legal capacity and intent to marry" form?

On the package 4 interview list what is "Certification of legal capacity and intent to marry"? Are those forms included in the P4?

A1.22.1
There is a "certification of legal capacity and intent to marry" form in the P4 packet. The SO should write the name of the American citizen she/he is to marry on the form and sign it in the presence of a VO who will also sign it. This form is in addition to the "intent to marry" letter most people write.
Form can be reviewed here; http://Cert_o...nt_to_marry.pdf - broken link

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

Q.1.23 Chinese and English forms?
Should we fill out and return both the English and Chinese versions to the Consulate, the English version filled out in English....the Chinese version filled out in Chinese.

A.1.23.1
We have filled out the P3 and will fill out the P4 forms in both languages. They gave us both, so we filled out both.

A.1.23.2
They can always throw out an extra one if they don't need it, but they can't fill in a missing one!!!!

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

Q.1.24 Two copies of each form?
Did I read correctly that there must be two copies of each of these forms? (original & one copy)

A.1.24.1
Yes.
Fill out both forms 2 English and 2 Chinese for DS-156 and 2 English and 2 Chinese for DS-157. Make at total of 8 forms.


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 24 June 2005)

Q.1.25 If my wife is pregnant, will her application be expedited?

A.1.25.1
Consulate Guangzhou webpage:

Due to the large number of cases backlogged we cannot expedite based on the pregnancy of the applicant, but will schedule to avoid travel around the time of birth. We have not heard of any problems arising from possible violation of China's one child policy from previous pending immigrants.

A.1.25.2

In the past, GUZ did speed up the process for someone who became pregnant before P4. Unfortunately, they no longer offer this service. So this option has been closed. I think they suspected too may couples getting pregnant just to expedite their case.

A.1.25.3

According to a response to my Senator from GZ...the only expeditable thing for GZ is pregnancy. But, my SO has read one or two posts on 001 where the pregnancy was not allowed to expedite. So, who knows. Does not hurt to at least try it.

A.1.25.4

She sent the ultra-sound pic and letter that confirms her pregnancy and gives a due date (May 14, 2005). I wrote a letter to USCIS requesting her case be expedited and sent that off yesterday, along with the doctor's letter, certified translation, and a copy of the NOA. I'll be sending a letter to my congressman tomorrow.

FYI, if anyone finds themselves in a similar situation, I was told to direct my request to a service center in Lee's Summit, Missouri (Lees Summit is Missouri Service Center or National Benefits Center) with attention to "Expedite Request". I don't think this is the address one would send the I-129F. I'd post that address, but I think you should call the USCIS and get the correct address for your area.

Two days ago I sent an e-mail to GZ to ask about XXXs paperwork and if they planned to expedite her case. I got a reply about 30 minutes ago.

Her appointment is March 4, 2005!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Our cut-off date for when it would be too late for her to travel was March 15, 2005.

 

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 9 Aug 2005)

Q.1.26 Can I delay my visa interview?

 

A.1.26.1

When I went to the American Citizen service hour in April, the question was asked, what if you could not make the interview.

The person there answered that they strongly suggested that you do everything possible to make the interview date. They said that if you could not make it, then you would be put at the end of the waiting list. So it could mean waiting another 3-6 months for the next interview slot.

 

A.1.26.2

Guangzhou Website:

Yes, but stay in touch by writing at least once per year and let us know three months before you are ready.

 

A.1.26.3

CFL member, immigration lawyer in GUZ:

I point out that your wife's visa once issued is good for 6 months to use to go to the US. That six months plus the 2 to 3 months she is now waiting for the interview maybe be enough to have her surgery done and recovery time without postponing the interview date. It is another option for you.

BTW, once an immigrant visa is issued and the holder decides s/he can't go in the validity period, the visa can be extended WITHOUT a new interview, but a new visa fee has to be paid and maybe a new medical report and/or police report would be required

 

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


Q.1.27 Where can I pay the visa fee?

A.1.27.1

If this is a [K1 or] K-3 interview, your SO will pay for a non-immigrant visa application fee. The fee is paid via a local branch of CITIC bank. She can take her interview appointment letter along, the bank clerk will know the correct amount. It is around US$100. She will receive two receipts, one to keep, one to be sealed with rest of her documents by the doctor at the physical exam hospital for later handing over to GUZ.

If it is a CR-1 or IR-1 interview, then (unless DCF) you have already paid the $380 prior to P3 (I don't remember exactly at which stage of the application). She would not need to pay anything at the interview.

 

A.1.27.2

http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzhou/iv/citic.html - broken link

 

A.1.27.3

K1/K3:
Pay the 830 Yuan fee at citi bank in GZ before med exam-get receipt!!--pay for medical exam at hospital they will let you know what to do with the receipts.
Also, you do not have to get shots updated but you will have to in the USA-So get them in GZ, it is much cheaper.

A.1.27.4

CR1:

For those of you doing the CR1 remember that you paid the Visa fee in the NVC…

 

NOTE: The Consulate does not require petitioners or beneficiaries to submit NVC fee receipts. The NVC provides the Consulate with this information  --GUZSpeaks.

 

A.1.27.5

My fiancée went today to try to pay the visa fee at her local bank. She was told she needs to bring her passport to pay the fee, and that her passport number will be writing on the receipt.   She was told this was a new requirement to help prevent people from getting visa receipts and then trying to sell them.     [Aug 11, 2005]

 

A.1.27.6

Here is a weblink to the Citi Industrial Banks around China...

http://www.ecitic.com/help/b_network.jsp - broken link


You will get three drop boxes at this point:

1) Select the second option:
中信实业银行  (set encoding if you don’t see Chinese characters)
2) Select the desired city: The first in list is Beijing, then Shanghai, etc.
3) Select the first option in list (should already be selected)

Then press the
Red Button , that translates to "Check".

As an example for Beijing, it will return three pages of banks with addresses and phone numbers.

Your SO can now call one in an area to see if they accept payments for the visa: If she wants to have the medical done there and/or just wants to do the visa payment in that area.

 

A.1.27.6

Shanghai Locations:

http://shanghai.usembassy-china.org.cn/citic_bank_locations.html - broken link

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 4 July 2005)


Q.1.28 What order should I pay for medical exam and visa fees?

A.1.28.1

K1/K3:

1. Pay the visa fee first (MUST PAY to get the interview.   MUST BRING receipt to interview)

2. Pay for medical exam.  (Hospital will put receipt in with paperwork)

 

A.1.28.2

CR1:

Visa fee is paid to NVC.  Neither the hospital nor consulate appear to want to see it.

 

A.1.28.2

Editor: It is unclear if the payment for the K1-K4 visa is required prior to the medical exam… this has simply been what most everyone does.     Some have reported that the medical staff in Shanghai do not require the visa fee paid prior.    Confirm from the hospital.

 

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Edited 4 July 2005)

Q.1.29 Fees?


A.1.29.1
Fees normally occurred by the Chinese beneficiary’s steps, given in RMB or USD

Translating various documents:  500 - 3000 RMB

Non-immigrant visa: K1-4 visa is 830 RMB, per visa

Immigrant visa: CR-1/IR-1 = 3,154 RMB, per visa

Exam= 800 RMB; expedited service=100 RMB.

Biometric fee = $45 USD  (RMB was acceptable, BUT they wanted the EXACT amount)

Visa pickup=20 RMB.

 

A.1.29.2

Beginning March 8, 2005, IV applicants who have paid the current $335 IV application fee via National Visa Center, but not the new surcharge, must pay it (RMB 373.5 or $45) at post. IV applicants who haven't paid any application fee should pay a total amount of RMB 3,154 or $380, on the day of the interview.    Guangzhou Consulate Webpage

 

A.1.29.3

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today in the Federal Register a revised fee structure for immigration benefits. The new fee structure becomes effective on October 26, 2005…  See fee Schedule.

 

 

A.1.29.4

You will have to pay the visa fee for the children as well as for the mother when the time comes.


The children will need a physical, the same as the mother when the time comes. Medical fees vary.

A.1.29.5

More info:

 

Fee Schedule

http://uscis.gov/graphics/formsfee/forms/files/g-1055.pdf - broken link

 

Fees for Visa Services

http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types_1263.html

 

[Editor:  Note that if you are at the P4 stage and a CR1 who filed state-side, then you already paid the visa fee to NVC.  To see a complete list of fees for the entire process, see the Visa FAQ]

 


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