It has been a while since my last post. A lot has been happening in the past seven months. After my brother got his permanent residency on April, my Mom went to the Philippines three months after. But before her flight, we visited Chicago with my brother and my husband and spent two days there. Mom went home on July 18th for a "vacation". Her flight back to the US was supposed be on January 2015, but an unfortunate event in our family when Mom went to her creator on my brother's birthday, a day that my family will never forget, a day that changed my family's lives forever. On the night of December 7, 2015 (US Time), my Mom had a seizure in our house in the Philippines. My sisters brought her to the hospital but Mom was unconscious and was on semi-coma for couple hours. On the morning of December 8 (US Time) we heard the bad news that Mom did not make it after doctors had done everything they could to revived her. The feeling that I felt that day and until now is unexplainable where I do not wish for everyone to experienced in their lifetime. Three days after, me and my brother flew to the Philippines and spent a whole month spending time with family and relatives.
To keep my Mama's memory alive, I will keep this blog updated. I will be writing all the dreams I had ( that I've been writing on my phone notes) and I'm having as we (my family) continue to live my day to day lives. As I believed, that my Mom's lives continue to live in our dreams. So, anyone who happen to read my post please bear with me as this will be my grief journal from now on as I recover in the after loss. At the same time, I will also be writing immigration related topics that relates my brother and my sisters visa application.
Monday, 16 February 2015
Friday, 6 June 2014
10 yr Green Card Arrived
Finally, my brother's 10yr Green Card arrived on May 28, 2014, one month and 1week after his POE date--4/11/14, but we paid the 165$ immigrant fee online at the USCIS ELIS website on April 18th which is a week after he arrived.
We are at least done for now on our family's immigration journey, though my sister's visa is still in the process and waiting for her priority date to become current. But, at least we can relax and we will focus on my brother's finding a part time job while waiting for his credentials to be done for his State board exam.
We are at least done for now on our family's immigration journey, though my sister's visa is still in the process and waiting for her priority date to become current. But, at least we can relax and we will focus on my brother's finding a part time job while waiting for his credentials to be done for his State board exam.
Sunday, 1 June 2014
SSN-Social Security Card Application
When my brother had his immigrant visa interview at the US Embassy in Manila last year (Oct2013),he signed and submitted a filled out DS230 Form, Part I & II --now, DS260,IV electronic application--. On the form, he checked "Yes" on the question that asked if he want's his social security card be delivered to our address without the need to apply in person when he gets here. So, that's what he did. But after one week, (4/18) I accompanied by brother to the SSA office to check on his social security card. He was told that according to their record, he already has a number which the Embassy had applied for him. He gave my brother the 9digits SS # and was told to wait 3 weeks for the actual card to received in the mail. Three weeks has gone,(5/9) still no card, so we went back to their office and spoke to someone--diff agent this time-.. He was told to reapply but with the same number. On the receipt that was given to him that day, it shows that he applied on May 9 instead of the original date that the "Embassy" had applied for him. May 18, which is a week after he "reapplied", he got the actual card in the mail. So, our assumptions was either, someone from the main office forgot to mail it out or the cbp officer that admitted/stamped my brother somewhat forgot do what she was supposed to do.? We don't know.
So, my suggestion for future reference, if after one week you do not get your SSN/card in the mail, I would suggest to visit the nearest Social Security Administration office and see if you already have a number . Because, if I remember it right, when my mom first came to the US, she received her SSN card in the mail one week after her arrival.
So, my suggestion for future reference, if after one week you do not get your SSN/card in the mail, I would suggest to visit the nearest Social Security Administration office and see if you already have a number . Because, if I remember it right, when my mom first came to the US, she received her SSN card in the mail one week after her arrival.
Friday, 25 April 2014
Immigrant Visa Fee $165--USCIS ELIS
April 18, 2014- One week after my brother's port of entry, we paid the immigrant visa fee of $165 at the USCIS Electronic Immigration System (ELIS) website.
Steps on paying the IV Fee $165- First, you have to create an account in order to Log in to USCIS ELIS. Have your passport/visa ready. You will be asked your complete name, date of birth, NVC case number or your MNL case -if your embassy is Manila-, Alien registration number. All of the information are printed on your visa. Remember to read all the instruction carefully. Once you have created your ELIS account, you will be able to pay the visa fee of $165. Then, the waiting begins-for the physical Green Card. According to them, it will take 3-6 months for your green card to process. Personally, I don't think it will take that long.
NOTE: According to the USCIS ELIS website, the USCIS immigrant fee of $165 must be paid after you receive your immigrant visa packet from the US Embassy or before you depart for the United States.
But, on my brother's case, we decided to pay it here because I have known so many immigrants on which they also have paid their visa fee after they got here with no problem, in other words they still got their Green Card. But, in no sense I am encouraging you to pay the fee in the US. If you are able to pay the required fee before you depart, then do so. Because, at the end of the day, you will not be able to receive your permanent resident card or GC until you pay the required the USCIS Immigrant Fee .
Detroit Port of Entry (POE) Experience
April 11, 2014 was my brother's date of entry--entry to the US soil- at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne Airport (DTW).
All of passengers were ushered to the immigration counter. He fall in line towards the "visitor" lane, when it was his turn, he was photographed and had his biometrics taken. Then he was directed to the different counter because of his visa category which is immigrant visa. The lady officer on the immigration counter asked for the yellow packet and his passport. She asked him few questions; what's the purpose for his travel on which he replied; to live permanently with his mom and sister. He was also asked to verify our address and phone number here in the US. After that, the custom officer had my brother signed the immigrant data summary sheet. The officer also told him, that he needs to stay here in the US for certain amount of time and if he wants to go back to the Philippines he can't stay for more than 6 months, if he wants to apply for citizenship in 5 years. Then he got his passport back with the date of arrival stamped on it.
My brother went to get his luggage at the carousel then went to checked-in for his connecting flight. The custom at the checked-in counter did not open his luggage but he was asked if he brought any food with him. He said yes-he had few lbs of dried fish in his luggage- but the custom officer did not bother to look at it.
PS: If you have connecting flight, do not worry. If you think you don't have enough time to catch up for your next flight because of the long custom process, do not worry, because if you will be late on your scheduled flight, the airline will accommodate you on their next available flight. All you have to do is approach the airline counter customer service which is usually located at your original boarding gate. So, just relax when you are at the immigration lane and pay attention on all signs and instructions. Huwag tatanga-tanga, presence of mind ang kailangan. :)
All of passengers were ushered to the immigration counter. He fall in line towards the "visitor" lane, when it was his turn, he was photographed and had his biometrics taken. Then he was directed to the different counter because of his visa category which is immigrant visa. The lady officer on the immigration counter asked for the yellow packet and his passport. She asked him few questions; what's the purpose for his travel on which he replied; to live permanently with his mom and sister. He was also asked to verify our address and phone number here in the US. After that, the custom officer had my brother signed the immigrant data summary sheet. The officer also told him, that he needs to stay here in the US for certain amount of time and if he wants to go back to the Philippines he can't stay for more than 6 months, if he wants to apply for citizenship in 5 years. Then he got his passport back with the date of arrival stamped on it.
My brother went to get his luggage at the carousel then went to checked-in for his connecting flight. The custom at the checked-in counter did not open his luggage but he was asked if he brought any food with him. He said yes-he had few lbs of dried fish in his luggage- but the custom officer did not bother to look at it.
PS: If you have connecting flight, do not worry. If you think you don't have enough time to catch up for your next flight because of the long custom process, do not worry, because if you will be late on your scheduled flight, the airline will accommodate you on their next available flight. All you have to do is approach the airline counter customer service which is usually located at your original boarding gate. So, just relax when you are at the immigration lane and pay attention on all signs and instructions. Huwag tatanga-tanga, presence of mind ang kailangan. :)
Tuesday, 15 April 2014
NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) Departure Procedure/Experience
April 11, 2014- After 2 years of my brother's visa journey, this is the day we have been waiting for. His scheduled flight was 6:45am but they left a little bit early at 6:30am via Delta Airlines going to Japan then Detroit as his first port of entry.
At the NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) Terminal 1, after all the security checks he fall in line at the DELTA counter when they opened the checked-in lane. He gave his passport to the custom officer that was on duty and he was asked few security questions which all of them are just self-explanatory. Then he was sent to the Department of Tourism counter located inside the airport-just right before DELTA's counter- to pay for the travel tax of 1,620PHP. At the Tourism area, he gave his passport and the amount for the travel tax and was given a receipt. He went back to the lane and ready to checked-in. He had one (1) piece of luggage -Delta allows 2 luggages for free with 23kg each- and his carry-on bag which has all his documents and books. He handed his e-ticket and his passport to the lady at the counter. They weighed his check-in luggage and was given an official ticket and boarding passes for Manila, Japan and his US connecting flight.
Next step was the payment of 550PHP for the terminal fee which is located inside the terminal. Then next was immigration check- show your passport with the terminal fee receipt. The last step was the final security check before going to your boarding gate.
At the boarding gate, there's another security clearance check. Every time you step-out; to buy for souvenirs or just to roam around while waiting for the boarding time, you will be checked again but you don't have to fall-in line along with the new comers.
PS: After checking-in and before entering into the terminal, you are allowed to step outside the building , you just have to present your boarding pass to the security officer and you will given an entry id. That entry id will serve as your clearance without falling on line.
At the NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) Terminal 1, after all the security checks he fall in line at the DELTA counter when they opened the checked-in lane. He gave his passport to the custom officer that was on duty and he was asked few security questions which all of them are just self-explanatory. Then he was sent to the Department of Tourism counter located inside the airport-just right before DELTA's counter- to pay for the travel tax of 1,620PHP. At the Tourism area, he gave his passport and the amount for the travel tax and was given a receipt. He went back to the lane and ready to checked-in. He had one (1) piece of luggage -Delta allows 2 luggages for free with 23kg each- and his carry-on bag which has all his documents and books. He handed his e-ticket and his passport to the lady at the counter. They weighed his check-in luggage and was given an official ticket and boarding passes for Manila, Japan and his US connecting flight.
Next step was the payment of 550PHP for the terminal fee which is located inside the terminal. Then next was immigration check- show your passport with the terminal fee receipt. The last step was the final security check before going to your boarding gate.
At the boarding gate, there's another security clearance check. Every time you step-out; to buy for souvenirs or just to roam around while waiting for the boarding time, you will be checked again but you don't have to fall-in line along with the new comers.
PS: After checking-in and before entering into the terminal, you are allowed to step outside the building , you just have to present your boarding pass to the security officer and you will given an entry id. That entry id will serve as your clearance without falling on line.
Monday, 14 April 2014
Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS)
April 8, 2014 (Tuesday)This day, my brother attended the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) at the Commission of Filipino Overseas (CFO) in Manila. He was accompanied by my sister. They went there around 11am but the next available session is at 2pm, so he had to wait until that time.
First Step: At the entrance desk he was asked to provide a valid identification card (he gave postal id) in exchange for the official PDOS ID that is given for you to wear all the time while inside the building. A queue number was also given at the entrance which serves as your number.
Second Step: His number was called and he submitted all the required papers that is listed on their website like; Registration form-can be downloaded at the CFO website, copy of the data summary, original with photocopy of the passport (front page), processing fee of 550PHP-make sure to bring the exact amount to avoid any delay, (1) 2x2 id, original and photocopy of the visa,
Last Step, would be the schedule for the next seminar. It's normally a two-hour seminar that covers issues and concerns on finding employment rights and obligations of immigrants as well as policies and procedures on how to secure foreign citizenship.
There is no reservation required for CFO PDOS because it's a first come, first served basis only. But you can pre-register online and you can print it ahead of time then just bring it with you so you don't have to fill-out the form when you get there.
For whole reference on current fees and requirements please refer to their website at here.
These are the Locations for CFO/PDOS:
CFO Manila
First Step: At the entrance desk he was asked to provide a valid identification card (he gave postal id) in exchange for the official PDOS ID that is given for you to wear all the time while inside the building. A queue number was also given at the entrance which serves as your number.
Second Step: His number was called and he submitted all the required papers that is listed on their website like; Registration form-can be downloaded at the CFO website, copy of the data summary, original with photocopy of the passport (front page), processing fee of 550PHP-make sure to bring the exact amount to avoid any delay, (1) 2x2 id, original and photocopy of the visa,
Last Step, would be the schedule for the next seminar. It's normally a two-hour seminar that covers issues and concerns on finding employment rights and obligations of immigrants as well as policies and procedures on how to secure foreign citizenship.
There is no reservation required for CFO PDOS because it's a first come, first served basis only. But you can pre-register online and you can print it ahead of time then just bring it with you so you don't have to fill-out the form when you get there.
For whole reference on current fees and requirements please refer to their website at here.
These are the Locations for CFO/PDOS:
CFO Manila
Citigold Center, 1345 Pres. Quirino Avenue
corner Osmeña Highway (South Superhighway)
Manila, Philippines 1007
Tel. No.: (02) 552-4700
Fax No.: (02) 561-8332
E-mail: info@cfo.gov.ph
Website: www.cfo.gov.ph
corner Osmeña Highway (South Superhighway)
Manila, Philippines 1007
Tel. No.: (02) 552-4700
Fax No.: (02) 561-8332
E-mail: info@cfo.gov.ph
Website: www.cfo.gov.ph
CFO Cebu Desk
Causing-Lozada Building, Osmeña Boulevard corner
MJ Cuenco Street, Cebu City, Philippines
Telefax: (032) 255-5253
Email: cfocebu@cfo.gov.ph
Website: www.cfo.gov.ph
MJ Cuenco Street, Cebu City, Philippines
Telefax: (032) 255-5253
Email: cfocebu@cfo.gov.ph
Website: www.cfo.gov.ph
Friday, 4 April 2014
Philippine Travel Tax & Tax Exemption
To date, the Philippine Travel Tax Rates are as follows:
| FIRST CLASS PASSAGE | ECONOMY CLASS PASSAGE | |
| Full Travel Tax | PHP 2,700.00 | PHP 1,620 |
| Standard Reduced Travel Tax | PHP 1,350.00 | PHP 810.00 |
Privileged Reduced Travel Tax
for a Dependents of an
Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW)
| PHP 400.00 | PHP 300.00 |
But, many have asked me if US Green Card holders have to pay for travel tax when leaving the Philippines. So, who has to pay and who are exempted ? According to the Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA), US permanent residents or Green Card holders who are staying in the Philippines for not more than one (1) year are exempted to pay for travel tax fee of PHP 1,620 when leaving the Philippines, only if they can provide the Travel Tax exemption Certificate issued by the PTA. To obtain the certificate, individual have to go to the Philippine Tourism office /travel tax offices and present your original passport, Green Card and a processing fee of 200PHP per certificate. When checking in to your respective airline, present the tax exemption certificate along with your unexpired passports, Green Cards and airline tickets. If you don't have the certificate with you, the custom officer that will check your passport will send you to the travel tax booth located at the airport.
For more information on the tax exemption and requirement for availability, visit the Philippine Tourism and the TIEZA ( Tourism Infrastructure and Zone Authority) websites.
THE FOLLOWING ARE SUBJECT TO THE PHILIPPINE TRAVEL TAX:
1. Citizens of the Philippines (except for citizens and family members who are covered by R.A. 6768)
2. Taxable Foreign Passport Holders (Table 1)
3. Non-immigrant foreign passport holders who have stayed in the Philippines for more than one (1) year (Table 2)
Tuesday, 7 January 2014
"Airfare Shopping from Manila to USA"
So, it has been 3 months since my brother was issued an immigrant visa to come to the US. His visa will expire in April, but he's going to enter the US before the expiration.
I've been shopping for his airfare and the cheapest I found is 909$ for one way at cheapOair.com. The itinerary for that price is MNL-NRT-ORD, through Japan Airlines & American Airlines. From Chicago, he's going to fly to our nearest airport.
Expedia.com 's airfare for the same itinerary is $916 which is not bad compared to CheapTickets.com airfare cost through Delta AirLines which is $1,169, so that's definitely off the table. I searched other airline booking sites but so far CheapOair is on my top list. Hopefully by February I will be able to book for his flight.
I've been shopping for his airfare and the cheapest I found is 909$ for one way at cheapOair.com. The itinerary for that price is MNL-NRT-ORD, through Japan Airlines & American Airlines. From Chicago, he's going to fly to our nearest airport.
Expedia.com 's airfare for the same itinerary is $916 which is not bad compared to CheapTickets.com airfare cost through Delta AirLines which is $1,169, so that's definitely off the table. I searched other airline booking sites but so far CheapOair is on my top list. Hopefully by February I will be able to book for his flight.
Saturday, 16 November 2013
Form I-130 for Sister of USC
Nov. 15, 2013- This day, I send my I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative- siblings of USC) packet application to the USCIS Chicago Lockbox for my married sister.
I have included the following supporting documents in the Package:
* Form G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance
*Filled and Signed Form I-130 (Me)
*Personal check of $420- processing fee for I-130
*Copy of Petitioner's US Passport (Me)
*Copy of Petitioner's Naturalization Certificate
*Copy of Petitioner's Birth Certificate- evidence that shows petitioner and sister have one common Mother/parents
*Copy of Petitioner's Marriage Certificate- Proof of legal name changed
*Copy of Beneficiary's Birth Certificate- (sister)
*Copy of Beneficiary's Marriage Certificate- proof of legal name changed
In my country, the visa availability for Siblings of US Citizen is two decades unless something change on the US Immigration process along the way.
Update:
Nov.22, 2013- I received an email and text notification from USCIS informing me that they have received my I-130 Petition for my sister.
I have included the following supporting documents in the Package:
* Form G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance
*Filled and Signed Form I-130 (Me)
*Personal check of $420- processing fee for I-130
*Copy of Petitioner's US Passport (Me)
*Copy of Petitioner's Naturalization Certificate
*Copy of Petitioner's Birth Certificate- evidence that shows petitioner and sister have one common Mother/parents
*Copy of Petitioner's Marriage Certificate- Proof of legal name changed
*Copy of Beneficiary's Birth Certificate- (sister)
*Copy of Beneficiary's Marriage Certificate- proof of legal name changed
In my country, the visa availability for Siblings of US Citizen is two decades unless something change on the US Immigration process along the way.
Update:
Nov.22, 2013- I received an email and text notification from USCIS informing me that they have received my I-130 Petition for my sister.
Friday, 8 November 2013
Citizenship and Updating Immigration Status at Social Security Administration (SSA)
As you may know or may not know, I came here on Fiancé Visa or K1. After I got married, I applied for SSN and AOS. I was issued an SSN # but with a note on the card that says "FOR DHS AUTHORIZATION ONLY". It just means, that without EAD or Green Card, I won't be allowed to work. So, back in 2006, few months after I got married, I applied for Employment Authorization together with my Adjustment of Status. It didn't take me long to get the EAD card in the mail . When I got hired, my employer asked me for my EAD and SSN card. A month or two, I got the 2 yr. conditional GC, so I gave my current employer a copy of my GC to update my status. Ninety days before my 2 yr. GC expired we filed for the removal of my conditional status. Me and my husband were interviewed together at our local USCIS. After the interview, I was approved and was given a I-551 card for 1 yr extension of my permanent residency while waiting for the actual 10yr GC in the mail. For some reason, there was a delay of the issuance of my GC. I think because, we moved to a new place and we had to changed our address. So, instead of waiting, I applied for Naturalization. because by that time I was already qualified for file for N400 based on the 3 yr. permanent residency rule, married to the same US citizen spouse. I made a copy of my 2yr GC and the 1 yr. extension card and mailed it together with my N400 application plus some civil documents that were required in filing. Less than a year from filing, I had an interview and passed it. Jan2010, I took an oath and became a United States Citizen.
Right after the oath taking, there were voters registration outside available for us that day whomever wants to register to vote which I did.
After all these years, I did not update my SSN status until today, Nov.8, 2013. The reason of the delay is because I did not change employer where they never ask me again my SSN card. Anyway, we went to the Social Security Administration Office today, 11/8/13 and updated the status of my immigration. I downloaded a form from SSA website and filled it out with my information and brought it to their office with my naturalization certificate and US passport. It only took them 10minutes to update in their system . After that, I was given a receipt showing the date of my visit and I should have my new card with no restriction on it ( but same #) in about 2 weeks.
UPDATE: Nov. 15, 2013- I got my new Social Security Card today with no restriction written.
Right after the oath taking, there were voters registration outside available for us that day whomever wants to register to vote which I did.
After all these years, I did not update my SSN status until today, Nov.8, 2013. The reason of the delay is because I did not change employer where they never ask me again my SSN card. Anyway, we went to the Social Security Administration Office today, 11/8/13 and updated the status of my immigration. I downloaded a form from SSA website and filled it out with my information and brought it to their office with my naturalization certificate and US passport. It only took them 10minutes to update in their system . After that, I was given a receipt showing the date of my visit and I should have my new card with no restriction on it ( but same #) in about 2 weeks.
UPDATE: Nov. 15, 2013- I got my new Social Security Card today with no restriction written.
Wednesday, 6 November 2013
VISA ON HAND (F2a)
Nov. 4, 2013, my brother picked-up the visa packet at 2GO Gaisano Branch, Davao City. His interview was on Oct 29th, and the visa was issued the next day (oct 30). But because of the weekend and the observance of All Souls day and All Saints day in the Philippines, it wasn't delivered on time. The visa was available for picked-up at 2GO branch after 4 business days from the date it was issued.
Tuesday, 29 October 2013
VISA ISSUED- CEAC Status
Less than 24 hrs from the interview, we checked the status of my brother's visa application at the CEAC website and to our surprised it's now say ISSUED, very quick indeed. We are expecting to have the visa delivered by 2GO this week.
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F2a, unmarried child of LPR under 21yrs old- Interview Done-APPROVED
Oct 29, 2013 at 6:30am, was my brother's immigrant Visa Interview at the US Embassy in Manila. Approximately 21months from his priority date of Jan 20, 2012. According to him, there were already a lot of people in-line outside the embassy when he got there at 4:30am. His interview was done at 11:00am. He was interviewed by a Filipino consul first which asked him more questions than the American CO. The final interview was with the American CO, which only took about 1 minute as he speak.
Questions were:
His name & Date of Birth
Name & Date of Birth of the Petitioner
What does she does for living? (petitioner)- Mom is unemployed
American CO asked him who is ( Me, and my Husband)?.. We are the co-sponsors and his sister and bro-in law.
Job/s of co-sponsors
What date/year , mom immigrated to the US?
He was also asked, on what year I (co-sponsor) came to the US.
At the Filipino CO, he was asked to provide his baptismal certificate. We did not expect them to ask for one but we're glad my brother had it with him during the interview. The Embassy returned back all the photographs and some of the original documents that we submitted at the NVC, like, co-sponsors marriage and birth certificates.
After the interview, he was told by the American CO, that his visa is APPROVED. He also seen the consul stamped APPROVED after the interview. He was instructed to proceed to 2GO, the visa courier for final steps.
3 weeks before his interview I sent a duplicate copy of all the paper works/documents that I've sent to NVC to my brother. He wasn't asked any of those. Contrary to what others say, that the US Embassy in Manila might asked for the new DS260 Form, my brother wasn't ask to provide the new Online Immigrant Application form, this is because he already submitted the old DS230 Form prior to the implementation of DS260, which was before Sept 1. 2013.
PRIORITY DATE- JAN 20,2012
DATE OF APPROVAL- JUNE 11,2013
CASE COMPLETE- SEPT 6,2013
Interview letter received- Oct 15,2013 (expedite approved)
Interview Date- Oct 29, 2013
Questions were:
His name & Date of Birth
Name & Date of Birth of the Petitioner
What does she does for living? (petitioner)- Mom is unemployed
American CO asked him who is ( Me, and my Husband)?.. We are the co-sponsors and his sister and bro-in law.
Job/s of co-sponsors
What date/year , mom immigrated to the US?
He was also asked, on what year I (co-sponsor) came to the US.
At the Filipino CO, he was asked to provide his baptismal certificate. We did not expect them to ask for one but we're glad my brother had it with him during the interview. The Embassy returned back all the photographs and some of the original documents that we submitted at the NVC, like, co-sponsors marriage and birth certificates.
After the interview, he was told by the American CO, that his visa is APPROVED. He also seen the consul stamped APPROVED after the interview. He was instructed to proceed to 2GO, the visa courier for final steps.
3 weeks before his interview I sent a duplicate copy of all the paper works/documents that I've sent to NVC to my brother. He wasn't asked any of those. Contrary to what others say, that the US Embassy in Manila might asked for the new DS260 Form, my brother wasn't ask to provide the new Online Immigrant Application form, this is because he already submitted the old DS230 Form prior to the implementation of DS260, which was before Sept 1. 2013.
PRIORITY DATE- JAN 20,2012
DATE OF APPROVAL- JUNE 11,2013
CASE COMPLETE- SEPT 6,2013
Interview letter received- Oct 15,2013 (expedite approved)
Interview Date- Oct 29, 2013
Friday, 25 October 2013
Medical Done in 1 Day @ SLEC
Oct 17 & 18 was my brother's scheduled medical exam at St. Lukes Extention Clinic (SLEC) . A day before his scheduled medical, he made an appointment by registering online at the SLEC website and printed out the appointment confirmation. He made photocopies of the SLEC appointment letter and took it with him including 3 (2x2) id pictures with white background, 2 photocopies of his passport(biographic page), medical fee of $223 . Fees must be paid in Philippine pesos at a current prevailing rate.
But, that online registration does not guarantee him or any applicants for fast service because it's a first come, first serve basis. So, whoever gets there early, will be served first.
But, that online registration does not guarantee him or any applicants for fast service because it's a first come, first serve basis. So, whoever gets there early, will be served first.
- Valid passport
- Photocopy of Passport Biographic/Data Page, the page in the passport that contains the applicant's photo and information. The photocopy should be the same size as the original, not enlarged or reduced.
- 3 pieces recent 2x2 visa photos (2 for submission to the U.S. Embassy, 1 for clinic file)
The US Embassy requires you to bring the 2x2 photos for your visa issuance. SLEC, regret not to release the medical report until such time that the applicant can provide this requirement. - Visa Interview Appointment letter from the Embassy or Instruction letter from the National Visa Center (NVC), if available,
- 2 photocopies of your Appointment Letter/ Instruction Letter
- Applicants are also required to provide the name, address and contact number of their petitioner in the U.S.A.
According to SLEC website, EACH APPLICANT/IMMIGRANT MUST PRESENT THE FOLLOWING:
My brother stayed at the nearby Casa Bogobo hotel, a walking distance to SLEC. He thought he was there early, but was 10th in line. When the clinic opened, the guard called the first 10 to get inside and start by filling out the necessary paper works that was given by the staff. The reception area opened at 6:00am. He was done with his medical by 11:00am and was instructed to come back in the afternoon for the result. He went to his hotel room for lunch and came back around 1:00pm at SLEC. He PASSED his medical and he was given a CD. Basically, his medical was done in half day. If he had a problem on his x-ray, it would be a different story.
Next is his interview at the US Embassy on Oct 29, 2013.
Saturday, 19 October 2013
NVC Expedite Approved
On Sept 7, 2013 , a day after my brother's F2a case was completed at NVC, I faxed a letter ( explaination and reason for expedite) including a privacy release form to our State Senator asking for assistant to expedite his interview. I did not hear from them until first week of Oct. The senator's office sent me a letter in the mail with the attached letter from NVC stating that our request for expedite has been approved by the US Embassy in Manila and NVC, and that my brother's case has left NVC building on Sept 30, 2013. We were also instructed that all future inquiries will be directed to the Embassy or the Department of State including interview schedule. I called NVC the following day to confirm about the letter, and yes the agent told me on the phone that the US Embassy in Manila is now responsible for my brother's interview scheduling.
Oct. 2, 2013- CEAC status in now "In Transit". I called Manila on Oct 7 to follow-up but the lady told me that they have not gotten the file yet. Oct. 8, CEAC status is now "Ready" and says it's ready for interview. Because of the time difference, I was not able to call back the following day.
Oct 15, -My brother called the US Embassy and to our surprised he was told that he can schedule for his interview right away. He was given dates to pick for interview. He picked Oct 29 @ 6:30am as his interview schedule. After 10 minutes we got an email appointment confirmation for his interview. On the phone, he was instructed to have his medical done a week before his interview. He decided to have it done on Oct 17 &18. So, I booked a round trip flight and hotel right away.
1 Day Medical Done....next post
Oct. 2, 2013- CEAC status in now "In Transit". I called Manila on Oct 7 to follow-up but the lady told me that they have not gotten the file yet. Oct. 8, CEAC status is now "Ready" and says it's ready for interview. Because of the time difference, I was not able to call back the following day.
Oct 15, -My brother called the US Embassy and to our surprised he was told that he can schedule for his interview right away. He was given dates to pick for interview. He picked Oct 29 @ 6:30am as his interview schedule. After 10 minutes we got an email appointment confirmation for his interview. On the phone, he was instructed to have his medical done a week before his interview. He decided to have it done on Oct 17 &18. So, I booked a round trip flight and hotel right away.
1 Day Medical Done....next post
Monday, 16 September 2013
Puzzling DS260 vs DS230
As many of us know, on Sept 3, DOS has implemented the online DS260 for the Application of Immigrant visa instead of the old DS230 form.. All immigrants who were required to submit DS230 form for immigrant visa application are now required to fill the DS260 form online at the CEAC site.
On my brother's case, we submitted the IV documents and DS230 on Aug 8 and was entered into their system on Aug 14. Since they did not find anything wrong on his IV application after Sept 3rd, he was not required to fill the DS260 online.But if we got a checklist for his DS230, then he would be required to fill DS260online. But, since we previously got a checklist for his AOS, I knew they will not send a second checklist. True enough his case was completed on Sept 6, 2013 with just the DS230 on their system.
While other visa applicants who are on the same stage are filling out the DS260 online eventhough there is no email instruction from NVC, we did not do it, because I believed if we filled it out, it could open the case again and will further delay the process. Some say, that the interviewing embassy might require him to fill the DS260 online during the interview. But, I think that is not a problem, he can do it right after the interview. I don't think it will take them another 20business days to review the form and to issue the visa.
On my brother's case, we submitted the IV documents and DS230 on Aug 8 and was entered into their system on Aug 14. Since they did not find anything wrong on his IV application after Sept 3rd, he was not required to fill the DS260 online.But if we got a checklist for his DS230, then he would be required to fill DS260online. But, since we previously got a checklist for his AOS, I knew they will not send a second checklist. True enough his case was completed on Sept 6, 2013 with just the DS230 on their system.
While other visa applicants who are on the same stage are filling out the DS260 online eventhough there is no email instruction from NVC, we did not do it, because I believed if we filled it out, it could open the case again and will further delay the process. Some say, that the interviewing embassy might require him to fill the DS260 online during the interview. But, I think that is not a problem, he can do it right after the interview. I don't think it will take them another 20business days to review the form and to issue the visa.
F2A Case Completed 9/6/13
Sept. 6, 2013- We normally called NVC at least once or twice a week to follow-up the status of the case. This time my brother called them and told them the case was completed on Sept 6 which is exactly 16 business days from the time the IV documents was entered into their system.
On Sept 13, we got this email(below) with the subject line of "Case Status".
On Sept 13, we got this email(below) with the subject line of "Case Status".
Dear Sir or Madam:
The National Visa Center has received all documentation necessary to complete pre-processing
of your case. As soon as an interview date has been scheduled, the applicant, petitioner
and attorney (if applicable) will be notified.
The applicant should NOT make any travel arrangements, sell property, or give up employment
until the US Embassy or Consulate General has issued a visa.
The US Embassy or Consulate General may require additional documentation at the time of
the interview. Additional documentation requirements if applicable can be referenced at
the following URL: http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/info/info_3742.html
Sincerely,
Director
National Visa Center
Tuesday, 3 September 2013
IV- Immigrant Visa Application DS230
Aug 8, 2013- This day, we sent my brother's DS230 Form application and supporting documents. They call it IV packet. It was received by NVC on Aug 10 and was entered to their system on Aug 14 per customer service representative. We were told to wait for 20 business days to finish reviewing the IV packet.
Here are the documents inside the packet IV
*IV Barcoded Cover Sheet showing the case #
*DS230 Form- Part I was signed and dated but not Part II
*2(2x2) id pic with white background
*copy of approval notice that was sent from USCIS
*Photocopy of his(brother) passport's biographic page
*Original & Photocopy of applicant's birth certificate
*Original & copy of NBI clearance (green color/no record on file)
Update : As of Sept. 3, 2013, the DS230 Form or the Online Immigrant Visa Application has now being replaced by the DS260 online form which can be completed at the Consular Electronic Application (CEAC) website and follow the direction on the website.
Here are the documents inside the packet IV
*IV Barcoded Cover Sheet showing the case #
*DS230 Form- Part I was signed and dated but not Part II
*2(2x2) id pic with white background
*copy of approval notice that was sent from USCIS
*Photocopy of his(brother) passport's biographic page
*Original & Photocopy of applicant's birth certificate
*Original & copy of NBI clearance (green color/no record on file)
Update : As of Sept. 3, 2013, the DS230 Form or the Online Immigrant Visa Application has now being replaced by the DS260 online form which can be completed at the Consular Electronic Application (CEAC) website and follow the direction on the website.
Friday, 16 August 2013
Affidavit of Support Checklist
So, on July 15, 2013 , NVC received my brother's AOS documents. But on Aug 7, we got two checklist, I-864a for me and my husband.
When we mailed the AOS on July 15. My Mom filled Form I-864 with letter of explanation of not filing based on zero income and a publication from IRS. So, that was right since we did not get a checklist for hers. As soon as I read the I-864a checklist , I knew right away that I did something wrong on my form. On the initial AOS, I submitted the wrong form. I used I-864 for myself . But NVC wants me to use I-864a because on my Mom's I-864 on Part 6, 6a &7b she used our income (me &husband) so on #10 of Part 6 her current annual household income is not zero.
Anyways, we mailed the right and corrected AOS and IV packet at the same time on Aug 8 and NVC got it on Aug 12. My brother called NVC right after they got it and they said that they just entered the IV documents on Aug 15 with the corrected AOS. So another 20 business days to wait till completion hoping there's no other checklist.
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