One of the blog members asked for a page solely for people to post their interview experiences. So this is it – with some rules!!!
First – NO questions on this page. Let’s keep it for interview experiences only – good and bad. I will probably delete questionsΒ to try and keep the page focused on interview experiences
Please at least mention your embassy (city and country, like Accra, Ghana)Β and brief details about what questions you were asked and any interesting points about documents you were asked for and any tips you can give others. This will be useful to others who have not yet had their interviews. Β Β People could use the search function to look for their embassy.
May 25, 2019 at 11:32
Good day Brit. In a country which allows people to attend interviews even if they havenβt done the medicals yet, is it possible that a derivative living abroad can do the medicals in their home country after the interview, return to country of current residence and then send passport for the visa to be placed on after medical results are received and are OK?
Thanks for your assistance
May 25, 2019 at 14:06
Possibly.
May 25, 2019 at 14:52
Hi Brit for Democratic Republic of Congo
Kinshasa
May 27, 2019 at 09:15
Hi Brit. I have DV interviews scheduled for early June. An official from local US Embassy called me and told me to bring photographs of kids when coming for interviews saying submitted ones have shades in background.
1. Will this delay my visa approval?
I am from military and same official asked whether I have a discharge letter and I said that I have authority to appear for interviews and if interviews are successful, I am getting discharged from military. He said sometimes in interviews, they ask for discharge letter and I said till interviews are over and visa is approved I can not leave my position and therefore I do not posses such a letter at the moment.
2. Can CO request such a letter at the interviews and what should I do in such instance? Because DV2019 will be over by late Sep and my discharge might take couple of months.
Thanks loads Brit for your effort.
May 27, 2019 at 14:44
1. If the shade is bad enough you should retake them
2. They can ask for what they want – and military discharge papers are not unusual. In July 2018 you asked me about military but you said you had all the papers. I don’t have a solution.
May 28, 2019 at 02:32
Correct Brit. Yes, I had all documents including authorized mil records as listed in instructions (Discharged letter requirement is not listed anywhere) and I did not get discharged yet so as not to loose my present employment until I am sure of the DV. Anyway you seem to go even through our historical posts.. it is a lot effort from you Brit. Thanks once again and hope for the best at interviews.
June 6, 2019 at 09:31
Saman, if they approve your visa they will require a discharge letter before issuing you a visa. Remember they advise not to resign before getting a visa. Once they ask you for a discharge letter it means they have approved your visa. Good luck.
May 29, 2019 at 00:41
hi brit
I made my interview in may 16 and my case put on Ap ….because in my interview i take both old and new replacment certificate of my educational document…and the co saw my old certificate …it seems like the photo is damaged but name is clear and she doesn’t believe me about old certificate…she put my case on Ap …sge return my passport and she took my educational certificate
1. is there any rule about Ap cases sir
NB …. i don’t know what my mistake is ….because as you always said…take both documents in interview..and both documents are genuine.
May 29, 2019 at 00:45
I always said take old and new PASSPORTS when people replace those. But education certificates would not normally need to be replaced unless you had lost the original. So – I can’t understand why you have old and new documents – and I am not surprised the CO was suspicious.
As for your question – what rule???
May 29, 2019 at 01:09
ohh….sorry am from ethiopia , in our embassy they are very stricted about new documents….and some agents said to me if u r educational documents are new …they suspect and they adviced me to take the old also…
my question is there any rule about Ap cases when will they finished cross checking.
May 29, 2019 at 02:46
Those agents are idiots.
No rule on timing of AP – they take as long as they need.
May 29, 2019 at 17:00
yes they are idiots…..they killed my hope…but truth will be always win…i hope they will check it and they call me…if anything happen…i will share u the update sir….last question today they update my case…means case last update 29 may 2019…it’s usuall for Ap cases ?
May 29, 2019 at 20:34
Updates happen – we don’t know what was the reson for the update, so it is best to not try and determine what is the significance of the update.
June 10, 2019 at 14:51
hi sir
today the embassy sent an email to me….to send my passport via dhl …what it mean sir? it mean they want to issued case?
June 10, 2019 at 18:46
Well what other reason would they have to need your passport?
June 11, 2019 at 15:48
i know…but they sent me two email
1st…it said dear applicant send the passport please ( today i sent my passport )
2nd …the subject of email said ( yatri: additional interview is required ) when i open the link it said the us consular need additional interview and and at z bottom it says please send your passport.
If i have to go for interview why on earth they are saying send my passport? What is u r advice sir?
do you think it was by mistake?
May 29, 2019 at 04:06
hi brit I am from ethiopia to and I don’t have my old eslce certificate and high school transcript I have the replaced ones did they satisfied with that, and tanks alot for your response.
May 29, 2019 at 05:33
Typically, yes
May 29, 2019 at 17:03
hey fitz as long as u r documents are genuine will not be problem….i made a mistake by took both certificate
May 29, 2019 at 17:47
tanks mark I wish all the best to u bro and don’t forget to tell us the final result and ur interview experience
August 12, 2019 at 10:18
Hey Mark how are u?
I am so 2019 dv from Ethiopia, and I was notified to send our passports (mine and my wife’s), the email I received is quite the same with yours. So did you get your visa or u are still waiting for it?
August 14, 2019 at 13:50
ok…just contact me at [email protected]
August 18, 2019 at 19:04
Hello again, I have tried to reach you on email.
June 14, 2019 at 18:56
after they refused my visa they sent me this email…and if they refused by real idon’t know what is the exact the reason of refusal?
Section 212(5)(a) which prohibits the issuance of a visa
to anyone who does not meet the basic educational or
work experience requirement defined under Section
203(c) of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act.
Persons who fail to include the names of their spouse and
all children on the original form, who entered the DV
lottery more than once, or who fail to meet any other
requirements of the DV program are disqualified from
the program. This refusal is final; there is no appeal.
June 14, 2019 at 22:21
but it’s 100% original sir …..and i already told her at interview i took replacment because of this…because if she asked me about why u replaced the certifocate…..i don’t want to lie and to say i lost the docment. k..if they don’ t trust my document why they sent me this email…This is puzzle sir
U.S. Department of State Consulate officer located in has indicated that additional documents are
required for
Please log into your user account at
https://ais.usvisa-
and
follow the
system instructions to generate instructions on how to
send Visa
application documents to the U.S. consulate.
Processor comments
Dear applicant,
Please send your Passport Via DHL.
Immigrant Visa Unit
Best regards,
May 29, 2019 at 04:36
Dear Mr.Brit,
1. I searched your website for “interview experience in Kazakhstan, Almaty”, but I couldn’t find anything. Do you have any stories in mind about this particular consulate?
2. I read that you recommended to bring both passports to the interview – both the old one and renewed one to avoid any questions or suspicions. But in my country (Kazakhstan), once you get a new passport, you have to return your old one. Is it a problem? Should I try to keep the old passport? (To clarify the situation: my wife and son had to renew their passports after we submitted the DS-260. I am the main applicant.)
May 29, 2019 at 05:36
1. I don’t know of any.
2. Well then that is all you can do…
May 29, 2019 at 05:46
Thank you for the quick reply!
1. Then I will write my report after the interview.
2. In that case, I will get copies of the old passports with me for the interview – that is all I can do.
May 29, 2019 at 17:54
Hello to Everyone
Case No : 13xxx EU 2019
Experience after I get visa and entered in US .
I got visa and went to US Texas , we paid Green Card for each family member 220 USD , We applied for SSN both of them according to new procedure 2019 green cards will arrive after 7 Month and SSN will be send to address after application after 50 Days .
Kids get additional 4 Vaccines Hepatiti A , Varichela , Rubeoni and Hepatit B in order to accept them on School .
So just to share with you situation after arrival in US .
Kind Regards,
Berto
May 29, 2019 at 20:42
Thank you for sharing your experience.How old are your kids?
May 30, 2019 at 04:05
6 , 8 , 13 year old
May 30, 2019 at 05:16
Where are you getting 7 months and 50 days,I know it takes A month or 2.
June 8, 2019 at 12:17
I got my ssn withing just one week after entering usa and my green card less than two month. Anyway am also in texas
May 29, 2019 at 18:04
Its been a journey of experience with you Sir Brit.
Thanks.
But want to find out from you Brits…
If you were in the position of having 2 sponsors, one who has a wife and a kid with annual income of $49,000, and the other with a wife, two kids, and parents as dependents but annual salary of $93,000, which would you opt for?
NB: We are a family of 4 (me, wife, and 2 kids)
Waiting on response…
Interview is just this coming week.
Thanks.
May 29, 2019 at 20:38
Since both meet the income requirements, I would choose based on which sponsor I knew better.
May 30, 2019 at 04:50
On point Mr. Brit.
Thanks.
May 30, 2019 at 03:21
my interview experience
Dv 2019 CN 23***
appointment date may 29@7:30am ( 1:30 local time)
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Embassy
1st i choose Amharic but co said can u speak English? Me: yes offcoures but i’m not fluent. & he said we have to communicate by English.
Me: we can
Co: where will you go
Me: Mennesota
Co: where city?
Me: Rochester
Co: Who is ur sponsor?
Me: his name is Tesfaneh Meseret
Co: what is the relationship between u & ur sponsor?
Me: he is my brother
Co: what job you want to work in USA
Me: I want to work any legal job
Co: what type of job u want
Me: i can’t specify cuz i’m ready to work any legal job and when after a few years i want to learn education and i will work with my profession
Co: congratulations i approve ur visa
May 31, 2019 at 10:49
NO: 2019AF20xxx
US EMBASSY: DSM, TANZANIA
FIRST LETTER: 15TH MAY 2018
DS 260 SUBMITTED ON:19 MAY 2018
DS 260 (1ST UNLOCK REQUEST) EMAIL SENT ON:20 MAY 2018 -Mistake on my name
DS 260 UNLOCK REQUEST ALLOWED ON: 21 MAY 2018 Mistake corrected and submitted same day.
DS 260 (2ND UNLOCK REQUEST) EMAIL SENT ON:25 OCT 2018 β I changed my sponsor
DS 260 UNLOCK REQUEST ALLOWED ON ;25 OCT 2018 Unlock request was allowed after 12 hours in the same day (I was happy)
DS 260 LAST SUBMITTED ON: 30 OCT 2018 -After I changed my sponsor
SENT EMAIL TO KCC ASKING WHY I DIDNβT YET RECEIVE AN EMAIL REQUESTED ME TO SENT SUPPORTIVE DOCUMENTS ON: 13 NOV 2018 -They replied after 3 hours telling me to allow several weeks for processing.
EMAIL REQUESTING FOR DOCUMENT SUBMISSION ON: 15 NOV 2018
DOCUMENTS SUBMITTED ON: 3RD NOV 2019
NOTIFICATION EMAIL ON: 2ND FEB 2019, Informing Records indicate I have submitted a complete and valid DS-260 application for each family member, and I have provided all required documentation. Once an interview date has been scheduled, I will receive a notification via email.
SECOND LETTER SENT ON: 18TH MARCH 2019
MEDICAL CHECK-UP ON : 2ND APRIL 2019
INTERVIEW DATE: 2ND MAY 2019
INTERVIEW REPORT TIME: 8:30 AM
I was the principal and only applicant for my case so everything went as follows.
I arrived at the embassy 50 minutes before interview time(8:30 am), made the queue and went through security checks. Then I entered the interview hall at 7:48 am. I was placed on another queue to submit my documents.
Documents requested were;1NL,2NL,DS260 Confirmation page,2 passport size US standard,travel passport,medical envelop(sealed),Birth certificates,school certificates both original and certified copies,Affidavit of support I-134, at this point I gave her an employment letter of my sponsor she went back of the window talking to another person in their back office after few minutes she came back with Affidavit of support and sponsorβs employment letter she told me to go with the documents when I will be called to another window.
I went back to sit and waited for 5 minutes. I was called back at the same window and asked if I have already paid interview fee, I said no.
I was directed to another window (cashier) waited for 1 minute a lady came and told me to pay USD 330 for visa (I had cash in local currency and USD which gave a total of 330 USD and above but the officer told me if I pay cash in local currency all amount should be in local currency and not mix ) . I had to go outside the embassy to find a shop where I can exchange from local to USD or otherwise. Most banks and bureau change were not opened at a time, I called a friend to lend me some local currency when adding with h few that I had could give me total 330 USD. I took a motorbike to where my friend was about 20 minutes from the Embassy to her; at this point, I had already panicked as it was now 8:50 am and I knew my interview was 8:30 am.I went back to the embassy it was 9:00 am.I stood at the cashier window for about 20 minutes when she saw me standing she came and I now paid my interview fee. (I wish this instruction was found in their websites that all amount to be paid in one currency and not mix to just get the value of 330 USD in total).
I waited as other people were interviewed and I noticed in the room I was the only DV applicant. It took long for people to be called to interview windows because we heard there was an internet problem.
After 4 hours I was called to one among the windows for an interview. I met a nice gentleman
CO : How are you?
Me: I am fine sir.
CO : Congrats for being selected you must be very excited both, you and your family.
Me: Thank you, yes we all are.
CO:Put your fingers on machines so that I take your fingerprints.
Me: I did as he said but It took a few minutes as my nails were long hahaaaa and I failed to place my fingers correctly. (I felt embarrassed a bit) later it was all good.
CO : Are you married or have kids?
Me : No Sir
CO: What did you study at the university?
Me: Before I answered β¦β¦
CO: He checked my school certificates and he said ooh nice course that you took. How many years did you study? 4 years?
Me: No sir 3 yearsβ¦..he said ooh yes yes in America most of the undergraduates are 4 yrs study …but I think he asked this to see if I real studies.
CO: So where will you stay?
Me: xx
CO: Why there?
Me: Because there is a long time friend who lives there.
CO: Oooh ok very reasonable …he made some jokes about weather conditions there and warned me later this year it’s normally cold.
Me: Smiled β¦..and said I will take enough clothes for such weather.
CO: He started giving me instructions while handing me a card, he told me he is going to stay with my passport and I will have to come back to the embassy next week to collect it. Good luck
Me: Thank you, Sir.
The next day I checked CEAC status updated to issued. I was very happy, I went to the embassy the next week and collect all the documents and my passport.
I have been reading this blog and very rarely commenting or asking questions because reading clears your doubts efficiently and most of the information is here if you pay attention. This blog has been my GUIDE throughout the process, thank you BritSimons for your generosity.T hank you, sir.
I will soon donate for this blog and I will always be reading your blog.
May 31, 2019 at 14:03
Thank you for the detailed account of your process!
June 1, 2019 at 20:29
Reen am from Tanzania dar es salaam ,can I get you’re contact (email
June 2, 2019 at 17:46
Yes sure….
[email protected]
June 2, 2019 at 14:05
So good to see a Tanzanian interview experience! I interviewed at the end of the month of May and my experience was slightly different, and I was successful as well, in no small part due to reading this blog. I’ll post it soon. Hongera!
June 1, 2019 at 04:42
Hey Simon! For whatever reason, I’m unable to post to your site from my laptop. I was trying to post my interview experience and it would say “submitting…” then it clears everything. I tried to comment on another post and the same thing happened. Any idea why?
June 1, 2019 at 04:45
No idea – you posted here just fine.
June 1, 2019 at 12:44
Yes, from my phone. I think I’ll wait and see if it fixes itself.
June 1, 2019 at 13:30
Dear Brit I submitted my documents as u instructed us to do witout a request from kcc on the 22 May,sent a verification mail demanding if they were satisfied with the documents,and they replied with a ur documents have been received and are currently undergoing processing allow few weeks blablabla ,so I decided to give them a call on fone and they checked the documents and confirmed dat they were received and are satisfactory.but dat I shud allow few weeks for processing and they will get bck to me.pls wat next shud I do ? Case number AF45xxx
June 1, 2019 at 13:46
Wait.
August 5, 2019 at 15:08
Please can you let me know if you finally had an interview scheduled or not because i have a similar case number
Thanks
[email protected]. here is my gmail you can contact and update me i will be most grateful
Thanks once more
August 5, 2019 at 19:15
If yours is a DV2019 case, and you have not yet been scheduled, you have probably missed your opportunity. Have you been asked to submit documents, and if so, when did you do that. Did you check with KCC if they are satisfied with your documents? If so, when?
August 5, 2019 at 20:45
Hi Brit. I am 2020 candidate and my case number is 2020AF00048xxx. I asked hanna to update me if finally got an interview to give me the hopes that my case number will be attended too because i am just scared its too high. I am from Cameroon. Any advise Brit?.
August 6, 2019 at 00:47
Advice: Learn to be patient. You have a long time to wait.
June 4, 2019 at 12:43
can i go to the interview whiles my medical is not yet ready and submit that later. My interview is on Thursday,6 June 2019. I am Kwame from Ghana
June 4, 2019 at 19:00
Possibly. The embassy might reschedule you.
June 5, 2019 at 11:37
Sup Kwame ….Please send me ur contact..
I have my interview upcoming this week in Ghana.
June 5, 2019 at 09:47
Hey Brit i cd really use ur advise, can i have a WhatsApp number to reach you on , issue concerning my sponser/host i want u to help me address
Thank you will be greatful
Mine is +256788555404
June 5, 2019 at 13:28
I don’t do that. Post your question here.
June 6, 2019 at 17:26
Is there anyone from Niger republic here ?
June 6, 2019 at 19:16
My sponser and host is also my baby daddy, n embassy knows coz we applied for citizenship, wq was approved, however his separated but not legally divorced in the USA, how do i go abt this so my visa doesn’t get denied on grounds of polygamy ?
June 6, 2019 at 20:09
You are not being clear. Are you a DV lottery winner? If so – what is your year/region/case number range.
June 6, 2019 at 13:57
EMBASSY: SYDNEY
Just came from my interview in Sydney, I’d just like to say I’ve never stressed so much about anything ever and PSA we ALL spend the 12 months leading up to this running through all the reasons we’ll be rejected so unless you don’t fit the literal check list for the approval then do yourselves a favour and take a metaphorical (or literal) valium because its going to give you a hernia for a very likely to be pointless cause.
My interview was at 8am, I flew the day before to Sydney and stayed in a local hotel, I brought with me references, job offers, bank statements, ANYTHING to compensate for the fact im just a wannabe actress with a CAFE JOB and recently back from health related surgery. I destroyed myself with anxiety and i arrive early.
I was brought up a special elevator just for the consulate and then went through a hallway into a security room, then after I was cleared somebody took my essential documents and ditched the rest. I was sent to a waiting area then taken up a new elevator to the top floor and put in another waiting room with many others. I went to pay the cashier and they informed me i did not bring enough money as i had read the for saying to bring $330 for the interview and DIDNT THINK TO TRANSFER THAT INTO US DOLLARS SO IT WAS ACTUALLY FIVE HUNDRED and of course i left my phone at home so I had to go back down through security and out to an atm on the street that was storming with rain. it took me 30 minutes to get back due to the security and levels involved then they told me my express post package needed to be 3kgs so i had to go back down again and find a bigger one and come back up through security clearance again.
I was pretty sure they’d tell me to bugger off at this point.
I came back up and tried not to vomit as I saw we were being called up to interview at the standing window in front of the entire waiting room of people without privacy and the people in those windows looked ready to crush some dreams. This of course is their job, the poker face, its an integral necessity to their role.
I went to the window and was told by the man that i would be called to the next window for my interview after I’d removed all the added documents that they didnt have an interest in reading. My compensation.
When I finally got to my window it went as follows:
HIM: Will you take an oath?
Yes
*takes pledge*
HIM: What is your highest level of education?
Well, my VCE records are here I’ve done my year 12
HIM: how old are you?
24
HIM: Right… so what do you do for work then?
Um… well I’m a specialty barista but…
HIM: That’s your HIGHEST? just year 12?
Yes but I’ve studied at extremely well regarded acting institutions and I-
HIM: OH… you’re an actress. You’re planning to go to america and be an actress? (literally thought he was about to laugh in my face or roll his eyes and tell me to walk away)
um….yes
HIM: You’re visa has been approved it will arrive in 7 days
are you… are you joking or
HIM: *stares unimpressed*
THANK YOU OKAY ILL GO NOW THANK YOU
June 6, 2019 at 14:24
LOL. All that waiting and you still managed to not know about the fees or the envelope. Bless you for telling us honestly. Best of luck in your acting career – when you make it big – send me your autograph! π
June 8, 2019 at 12:25
Haha! I will, you’ve been my anchor of logic and rationality throughout this ridiculously scary experience!
Thank you so much for your efforts Brit Simon!
June 7, 2019 at 18:39
1 NL: Early June 2018
2 NL: April 18, 2019
Case number: 2019AF28xxx
Embassy: Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Country of Chargeability: Tanzania
Medical date: April 30, 2019
Interview date: May 30, 2019
Time: 10:00 am
My 2NL interview date was June 6, 2019 at 8.30am. I was called on Weds May 29, 2019 around 4.30pm to move interview day to the next day, May 30 at 10am.
Got to embassy at around 9.45am and went through security. No phones or electronics of any kind are allowed on embassy property. No bags larger than 10×10 inches.
Walked into the consular section, through the secondary security check, and went to window 1 to hand over documents they asked for. The woman collecting documents forgot to ask for my high school certificate which I asked her if they wanted. She didn’t ask for financial information either. I figured I’ll give it to CO, if asked.
Documents she DID ask for:
Birth certificate original + copy
Passport + biodata page copy
Medical report
2 passport photos
Police certificate original β the newer one. They didnβt take the older one.
Letter from current employer (I didnβt know about this. Luckily, I had prepared a work experience case, as well, so I had my current employment contract).
High school certificates + copies β O- and A-level.
She asked me to go to window 4 to pay $330 fee for the interview.
Paid in cash and got a receipt. Then sat and waited. A little later, they started interviewing other immigrant cases at around 11am. The interviews are conducted in open where everyone can hear you.
At around 11.30am, I was called to window 2β the CO whom I heard reject a visitor visa earlier and then interview an immigrant applicant for 40 min! Brilliant! But I was as prepared as could be from reading this blog.
Me: Hi!
CO: Hello! May I see the receipt?
*Handed over the receipt for fee payment*
CO: Thanks.
*Returned the receipt*
CO: Please raise your hand. Do you swear…
Me: I do.
CO: Are you single?
Me: xxx.
CO: Any children?
Me: xxx.
CO: So, you’ve lived in the US for a while for school and work?
Me: Yes.
CO: Where did you go to school?
Me: xxx
CO: So, you havenβt provided me with any of those certificates. *Laughing* All I’m seeing is Ds in book keeping.
Me: *laughing as well* Well, bookkeeping is boring. But if you’d like to see my certificates, I have them all.
CO: Why don’t you show me the PhD?
*Hand over diploma and transcript which he glances through quickly and returned, including the other original documents*
CO: Do you have a job lined up?
Me: No, I’m waiting to get the visa before I do that.
CO: Ok.
CO: You used to work at XXX?
Me: Yes for 2 years.
CO: When did you come back?
Me: xxx.
CO: Have you ever been out of status?
Me: No.
CO: Health related question.
Me: xxx
CO: Another health related question.
Me: xxx
CO: How did you know about this lottery program? Very few Tanzanians apply for it.
Me: In the US, Iβd heard about it from other international students.
CO: OK, this is where I tell you to come back next Weds to get your passport but we might have Eid holiday which is why we have moved your interview up, as well.
*Checks with someone on which day we pick up*
CO: If Tuesday is a work day, come on Tuesday at 2pm and if not come on Thursday. Bring this card. *Hands a green collection card*
Me: I think Tuesday is a work day. The Islamic council has announced Eid will be either Weds or Thurs.
CO: Ah! when did they do that?
Me: Yesterday evening, I believe. I saw an announcement online.
CO: Ok then come on Tuesday. Congratulations.
Me: Awesome! Thank you!
I donβt think this whole conversation took no more than 10 min, if that.
I was never asked to show any financial documents of any kind although I had bank statements as well as I-134. They didnβt ask for DS260 confirmation or the 2NL. CO had returned the employer letter saying he didnβt need that. I donβt know why the CO didnβt ask for any of the other documents either.
Person before me was interviewed for about 40 min and it sounded like they were suspicious of their marriage. That was their second interview. The CO had asked for proof of their relationships, and made them go through all the photos identifying various people, etc. That was making the rest of us sitting there waiting very nervous.
Thanks to Simonβs advice, I had overprepared and was ready for pretty much every type of document they could ask for. I canβt stress enough that you should have everything you can think of with you, just in case.
June 7, 2019 at 20:29
Nicely done. Congratulations!
June 8, 2019 at 08:36
Thanks Simon! You’ve been a huge help in this process. I was feeling quite at sea about this process before I found this blog.
June 8, 2019 at 16:16
Hongera sana anna
June 9, 2019 at 12:56
Asante Ziana.
June 8, 2019 at 22:25
Congratulations Anna, fellow Tanzanian here….your experience is very helpful. i will be heading for interview in July and i m praying for the best.
June 9, 2019 at 12:56
Oh, good luck! Be prepared with all documents and you will be fine.
June 9, 2019 at 13:30
Wooow .hello Anna my embassy also request a bio-data page of passport but I don’t really know what that is can you help
Am Mimi from Cameroon
June 9, 2019 at 19:49
It is the page that has your personal details.
June 10, 2019 at 11:15
Your Advanced Level Certificate is the one where it states candidate name, school, syllabus and grades, correct?
June 8, 2019 at 22:29
Anna, i have a small concern about a police certificate, what do you mean by the old one and the new one?
June 9, 2019 at 12:59
I had a police certificate from last year (2018) which is what I had sent to KCC. But because it was close to expiration, I got a new one in May 2019. At the interview, I provided them with both and they only took the newer one.
June 9, 2019 at 11:10
Hello Simon, thanks for your blog. Here is my interview experience.
I am a single mom to one child. We both got all required immunizations from the local hospitals to avoid the traumatic experience of multiple shots on the same day. We kept our clear immunization records and went to do the medicals. It was all fine.
Day of interview went like this
Embassy: Nairobi
Case number :123**
Date:19th Feb 2019
I woke up very early in the morning got ready and had to force my child to have a heavy breakfast just in case we were to spend hours at the embassy. We got a cab and went to the embassy. We were there by 6 AM. We were the first to get in at around 6:45AM. I was called to a counter and asked t submit documents which I did.
I asked the lady if I could rectify something in my ds260 and she said I could. She gave me a pass so that I could move out of the embassy and do so. I was delayed by the long queues so I got back in at around 9:30AM for interview.
I can’t recall the exact documents but they included my advanced level certificate, consent letter from baby dady, police clearence and passports.
So I was called for interview after some time but my baby had already made friends and was so playing and unable to join me at the counter. She came anyways and I was asked the to swear that I was going to tell the truth which I did.
Consular: good morning
Me: good morning madam
Con: Did you finish high school?
Me: yes
Con: did you continue to university?
Me: yes I did
Con: whuch course
Me:***
Con: how long did it take you to finish that course
Me: ***
Con: tell me about your relationship with the child’s father
Me: we are not together but we talk.
Con: who is your host?
Me: ****
Con: what’s your relationship to her?
Me:aunt
Con: when is the last time she came to Uganda?
Me: ***
Con: did she give you aanything to do with her finances?
Me: No
Then she got a yellow sheet and asked me to dhl affidavit of support and baby daddy identification together with passports.
The baby identification took me about 2 and a half months to get. The affidavit oof support took me 2 weeks to get.
I sent the documents early May and the embassy sent me an email asking me to get another sponsor because the one I had submitted didn’t meet the required income
.
I submitted new sponsor details after 10 days and our visas were issued within 4 days.
This is just to give hope to those on AP.
I am yet to pick passports from Nairobi
I
June 10, 2019 at 11:14
Your Advanced Level Certificate is the one where it states candidate name, school, syllabus and grades, correct?
June 9, 2019 at 13:44
Hello;
I really appreciate these interviews experiences….Keep sharing
I find this blog so amazing &helpful.
Thanks Brit for this wonderful job ever done to help people in need.
June 10, 2019 at 02:05
Hi Sir Brit,
Kindly permit me to share my interview experience here in Accra on Thursday June 6.
We (me, wife, and 2 kids) were scheduled to report at 7:30 am, and we arrived as early as 6:00 am (better to be earlier on time than late you know). Waited at a place close to the embassy until we were called at 7:30. We were called, presented our Interview Appointment Letter. A personnel crosschecked from a list of scheduled appointments, and there and there our names were listed. We then proceeded through a security checkpoint to ensure there were no forbidden items (let me advise here that everyone go to the embassy with only Required Items). We then went further to the Interview Section Area.
A second time another personnel demanded our Letter of Appointment, collected it for filing. We were then directed to wait in a Waiting Place for the next instruction. Within a few minutes, all appointees were invited to a particular window where an officer gave a brief Orientation on the process. The next process was payment of Visa Fee $330 for each of the four of us (let me share here that, the Embassy in Accra accepted the Ghanaian CEDI’s equivalent. We had our fees already in US$). Receipt of payment was presented to the officer who received our Interview Letter to confirm our readiness for the interview.
The next step was presentation of required documents: passports, birth certificates, Confirmation Page, School documents, professional proofs, photographs (2 each), and sealed medical reports. (I carried a photo album of our marriage ceremonies, our children’s naming ceremonies, and you won’t believe how impressed the consular Officers were with the photographs, marriage certificate (original and 2 photocopies – unfortunately I had only 1 copy so an officer had to write a note added to my wife’s passport and that permitted her to go out of the Embassy to go make a photocopy). NB: Beside the passports and Confirmation page, all documents must be the original and photocopies.
We waited a while, and then invited for the real interview with the Consular Officer (our experience was basically an interaction, the most wonderful I would say). In less than 10 minutes, it was over. The viewing of our photo albums took the most time because the Officer with two other ones were enjoying the family moments… hahahaha…
The Final statement by the Officer was “Mum and Dad, I’m happy to announce to you that you have been granted visas for a stay in the United States of America.” He then handed us a paper that contains instructions on how to pick up our passports… (He then wrote in ink a direction to go visit ‘Apioo Grill and Bar’ in Washington DC for a Treat when we arrive in the US), because we mentioned we would be staying in Virginia when asked. And he was like Washington isn’t far from Virginia, so we should go have a nice Treat in that Bar…..
Details of Interview:
1. What work do you intend doing in the US.
2. Have we been married before.
3. How many kids do we have.
4. What I my currently doing.
5. Where do you intend staying.
That was all.
Please Note:
We went well prepared with our Affidavits of Support Documents but that was not asked for.
Secondly I was able to change the recipient address of where our Green Cards should be forwarded at the Embassy.
June 10, 2019 at 11:07
Case number 2019AF24XXX
Location: Yaounde -Cameroon
1NL, 18 May 2018
2NL ,. 30 April 2019
Family of four and I was the principal Applicant and my wife and 2kids
Interview date 4 June 2019 , 7:30AM
Required documents are non conviction, birth certificate and 2 photocopy copies, advance level and 2 photocopy copies, marriage certificate and 2 photocopy copies, photos to prove relationship,photocopy of passport 2copies each , 2passport photos .
I arrived the Embassy at exactly 7:30 , we check at the security post before we were sent into the embassy.
We were given a number and then call to pay the interview fee 4 of us $1320 = 780000CFA
After about 15minutes we were called up for fingers print and we were still asked to set and wait for interview proper.
We were later call for the interview.
Me, Good morning
Co, Good morning
Co, who is the principal applicant
Me, I
Co. Who played the lottery for you
Me. I myself
Co. When did you have your Advance level
Me. 2010
Co how many papers do you have
Me. ……
Co.. which subjects
Me…..
Co when was your first child born
Me……
Co… where did you meet your wife
Me……
Co. Asked my wife when did your husband propose to you
Wife ………
She took our photos album and look at it and said congratulations welcome to America, I will issue you people the Visa and she gave us a yellow paper and she tells us the date to pick up our Visas . I have picked up our Visas and will be leaving soon.
Thanks so much Brits for your time and advice through out before my interview.
Brit I wish to ask a question.
I changed the my address during the interview but when I receive the visa package only I as the principal applicant have the new address on my visa package , my wife and kids visa package still carried the old .
1) I wish to know if my wife and kids Green card will be delivered to the old address.
2) if yes what should I do to change it or it is OK.
June 10, 2019 at 16:09
Hello Robert. Please am from Cameroon and thanks for the sharing. Please I wish to ask you if at the embassy you were asked anything about your host, affidavit of support or any thing concerning your stay in US?
June 11, 2019 at 12:19
No they did ask anything like that. It not on the list of required documents.so don’t bother, but if you have just take it along.
June 10, 2019 at 17:57
2. Check (and change if needed) at the POE.
June 10, 2019 at 15:16
Hi brit, this is my interview experience
Case no. 201917515,
embassy nairobi kenya
I checked if i had won in may 18 in june i submitted my ds260. In November i recieved mail telling me to send documents which i did immediately i didn’t want to miss this opportunity whatsoever.
2Nl came in march. My interview date was on
11th april.
My son and i arrived at the embassy at around 6:45 already there was a queue my son 2 yrs refused to stand so i had to carry him. Being so heavy i couldn’t manage to stand for long so i went and talked with the security and they allowed me to go in front of the line.
We were checked and we went in. I was asked to produce my 1nl and passport which i did for my son.
We were allowed to enter and we went and picked a no. And sat down but my son being so playful we didn’t do much sitting he was up and down.
My no. Came up and we went to the first window met a black lady was so nice and kind at that time levi was untamed i had to tell the lady to please be patient with me. She laughed and said i understand you completely.
I gave her what she asked for that is passports affidavit of support plus letter from my host, 2nl birth certs, two pics each consent letter from levis dad. She asked if i was married and how many kids to i hv. Then told me to pay at the cashier and wait for my main interview.
I went and paid and went outside to wait. At this point levi was out of control at one point i let him run where he wanted becoz i was so tired and frustrated. He had taken his shoes off and wore mine so i was bare foot the entire time. On the bright side he was really charming to people and being guffy and playful he really entertained people.
My no. Was called and since it caught me by surprise coz i had just sitted like 20 minutes ago didnt expect it. I ran and scooped my son and rushed inside to the interview window. I was panting and my shoes on my hand i dnt think i even said halo to the lady on the other side of the window?.
I was panting and levi was now charming the lady. I once again told her to be patient with us which she smiled and said no problem. I put my hand on the machine and the interview started.
(i dnt rem me swearing) ?but nway
She asked:who is your host
Me. My brother
Her:where does he stay. Does your brother have a family?
Me. Yes wife two kids
Her:what does he do
Me. Military
Her:is this the only child you have
Me. Yes
Okay all the time she was busy with the computer not once did she look at us. I was like what kind of interview is this?nway she said everything looks okay am approving your visa she gave me a green paper and told me to wait for our visa in couple of days.
Silly me i asked is that all. Hahaha she laughed and said yes ??we left not sure if i should cry or laugh i was just there lol.
Nway within 3 days i recieved my visa
Ps:Mr simon i can’t thank you enough for what you have done for me and my boy i came your blog when i was just researching on the net about dv lottery. I believe i wa meant to find your blog. I used to read questions daily and the interview experiences was all in my fingertips lol nway i was really prepared got everything ready didn’t wnt to forget any small detail. I think at some point i became opposed ?nway its over now we moving end of june. Best of luck to the remaining people and success to the dv 2020.
Dv lottery has taught me to be patient and to be ready. I thank God for this opportunity and a second chance in life. ?? Brit may God bless you and your family always.
June 10, 2019 at 18:47
Thank you for the narration and kind words. Now go and make a great life in the USA!
June 10, 2019 at 17:07
Congratulations I have Interview on the last of the month in Yaounde what different between yalw papers and white papers
Thanks
June 10, 2019 at 17:15
?ENTRY- October 19, 2017
SELECTION- May 15, 2018
DS -260 application – October, 2018
INTERVIEW DATE ?β
I got the interview date on January 18, 2019 which was scheduled on March 14. I knew the time has come for me to start working!
MEDICAL EXAMINATION
I attended my examination interview on 14th February(Val’s Day, uh π ). In Ghana, there are only two medical centres accredited by the US Embassy for immigrants, [Akai Houses Clinic and Holy Trinity Medical Center(HTMC)]. I chose HTMC since the former was super close to the embassy and would potentially portray somewhat ego in the rendering of its services. I hate egoistic services! Everything went on super well. They were friendly and the building itself would undeniably make your fears vanish into the thin air! I was able to make two friends at HTMC. BUT……, I was exactly one month away from the BIGGEST BOUT in the DV LOTTERY JOURNEY. π
THE VISA INTERVIEW -? 14TH MARCH
My interview time was on? 9:30am. I like everyone, got there much earlier than the appointed time. Things/Items I took with me :
1. The Christian Prayer
2. My valid passport
3. Medical examination report in a sealed envelope
4. 2 passport pictures
5. Interview letter
6. Original birth certificate and photocopy
7. My High School certificate and photocopy
8. Police certificate
9. Visa fee of $330.
I was called to window 5 for my interview after submitting my documents at window 11 about 5-7 minutes earlier.
CO: Good morning (my first name)
ME:Good morning
CO:Swear that everything you say is the truth and nothing but the truth
ME I swear
CO: What work do you currently do?
ME: Yadda yadda
CO: What work will you do in the US?
ME: Yadda yadda
CO: Have you traveled outside of Ghana before?
ME: NO
CO: Have you married and do you have any children?
ME: NO
He gave me a paper with instructions on how to collect my passport with visa.
It took less than 30sec to complete the interview!
?HINT?
IF YOUR PASSPORT IS? NOT? RETURNED TO YOU AFTER THE INTERVIEW, THEN YOU’VE PASSED YOUR INTERVIEW, SINCE IT’S IN THE PASSPORT THAT YOUR VISA WOULD BE PRINTED!
HOW I GOT TO KNOW ?BRITSIMONSAYS.COM?
AFTER GETTING SELECTED I RESORT TO THE INTERNET TO AT LEAST KNOW MUCH ABOUT THE DV LOTTERY. I ENTERED “DV LOTTERY INTERVIEWS” IN THE GOOGLE SEARCH ENGINE SINCE I KNEW THAT THERE WOULD BE GENEROUS FOLKS IN THE WORLD TO GET US ON OUR FEET! I STUMBLED ON BRITSIMONSAYS.COM. THAT WAS A CATCHY CAPTION ….. AND SO DECIDED TO READ ITS CONTENT AND HERE I AM TODAY. Dear Reader, please be patient ,read and follow the instructions, trust in God and YOU’LL JUST BE FINE! DON’T CHEAT!!!
THANKS BRIT AND YOUR ADORABLE DAUGHTER . HOW’S CA ? WHERE’S IT? OH JUST WEST FROM MY CURRENT ?LOCATION!??
June 10, 2019 at 20:29
LOL!
June 11, 2019 at 02:13
GOD BLESS YOU BRIT AND YOUR GENEROUS WORK! I LIKE THIS BLOG AND I ALWAYS GET EXCITED READING IT’S CONTENTS WITH SOMETIMES YOUR FUNNY ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS AND THE HARD WORK TYPING OF OUR FOLKS TO MAKE US FEARLESS IN OUR VISA INTERVIEW!??
June 11, 2019 at 17:09
Hi Simon,
Below is my interview experience.
Case : 2019AF24xxx
Email to send docs on March 19th
Sent the docs on March 20th
Recieved Confirmation email on March 21st
2NL Recieved on April 30th
Embassy: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Interview Date: Sunday June 9th at 2pm
We (myself and my wife) to the embassy an hour earlier around 1pm
Cleared from security and entered the embassy around 1:05 pm.
Got a token for tge first window to submit documents only waited for 5 minutes or less then were called to the first window (window 12) where they asked for our passport and the interview letter then asked us to go directly to window 8 to submit the documents
– Birth certificates (original, copy and translated)
– Police Certificates (original)
– Marriage certificates (original, copy and translated)
– Medical Report in a sealed envelop. She opened it and gave me the Xray CDs to keep with me and take with me when I travel to the US
– 2 photos each
– Letter from current employer
– I-134 or proof of funds. I submitted proof of funds.
Then she asked me to go to the cashier and pay $660 and bring back the receipts. I did and then she asked us to wait to be called to window 13 for the actual interview with the CO. At this point it was around 1:30pm
We waited for around 3 hours before being called. For some reason immigration interviews did not start right away plus there was 4 cases before us 3 of them took longer than expected because they needed a translator ( we could hear questions repeated in Arabic)
Anyway around 4:30 we were called for our interview
CO: Hello , sorry for the long wait, it was long day
Me: Hi, no problem it’s OK
CO : raise your hands to take the oath that all information and answers you provide today is the truth.
Us: we did.
CO: How long you have been married?
Me: 3 years
CO: Do you have children?
Me: No not yet
CO: I see that you both of you have university degrees. Are you both working?
Me: I am working as a mech. Engineer but my wife is not currently working.
CO: what are you planning to do in the US
Me: my plan to work in my field and I have a promise from my company to transfer me to the head office in US if I got the green card, not from HR so nothing solid yet.
CO: yes I see that you provided the company letter
My wife: I am planning first to start a Masters and then find a job.
CO: Where are you planning to stay in the US
Me: with her relatives until I get transferred to Houston.
CO with a smile: Congratulations your applications is approved in 5 days you will receive an sms from the courier to deliver your package. Here is your original documents.
With a big smile on our faces: thank you..have a nice evening.
It just over 5 minutes.
I checked the CEAC the next day Monday June 10th it was showing AP. Today Tuesday June 11th it is showing issued.
I would like to thank you Simon for your blog that made this journey easy.
My advice to all , prepare, prepare then over prepare.. Also as Simon mentioned in a reply earlier although ability to communicate in English is not officially a factor but it does improve the impression and make the interview easier.
Best of luck to all
Regards,
Omar Amin
June 13, 2019 at 08:34
Interview experience in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Case #: 2019AF36***)
Submitted DS-260 in mid-July 2018. Got request for documents from KCC in early Feb 2019. Submitted document to KCC 3 weeks later. Interview was in early June 2019.
At the front entrance, I was asked for my photos and appointment time and to turn off my cellphone. Inside, I handed over my cellphone and my watch which they kept until I was done. I went through security and then walked over to another building where they asked me to fill out a short info form (name, case #, and contact details). They gave me a piece of paper with details about getting my passport back (this paper was confusing for many reasons. Just know that the instructions you get through the visa appointment system are correct – follow those). They also gave me a number and then I had to wait outside (in a courtyard) until my number was called. Waited about an hour.
Once my number was called, I went inside and waited for my number to be called again. (Honestly, there was some confusion at this point as I was initially told by a security officer to stand at one of the windows and wait, which was the wrong instruction). Anyhow, when my number was called, an administrator took my fingerprints and then checked her computer for my medical report which was meant to be sent directly to the embassy. She said they didn’t have it (at which point I nearly had a heart attack). After about 10 minutes, she found it. I advise others whose medical report is sent directly to the embassy to consider calling the doctor’s office where they had their medical before their interview to confirm that their documents were sent. I didn’t think to do this and in that moment, really wished I had.
The administrator then asked for my photos and all my documents including: birth certificate, police clearance (they kept the original), proof of all education (luckily I brought copies of my degree certificates as well as my high school certificate), proof of funds (I had bank statements and proof of employment), and sponsorship forms. I wasn’t expecting that I would be asked for the sponsorship form before seeing the CO and perhaps I didn’t absolutely need to give these forms, but I chose to give them in case. She also asked for supporting tax documents of my sponsor (W2 and 1040) – luckily I had these. The instructions for the sponsorship form says you only need these if the sponsor is self employed, but it turns out they want them regardless (at least in Joburg they do). I then waited again for my number to be called (maybe 20 minutes).
I then met with the CO. I took the oath. She asked me 4 questions: 1) highest level of education and what my last degree was in, 2) if I’m married, 3) if I have children, 4) where I will stay once in the US. That was it! She then said “this all looks fine. I should be able to approve this later today”. I was confused by that, but it all turned out to be fine. CEAC showed AP for one day and the next day showed “issued”. Woo hoo!! I received my passport back exactly a week after the interview.
All in all, I was at the embassy for a little over 2 hours. The experience was anxiety provoking but ultimately quite straightforward – BUT you need to be prepared – over prepared, actually.
A note for South Africans: getting documents like birth certificates and police clearance can take time – too much time. I elected to pay companies to get these documents more quickly for me. I’m not sure it was necessary for the birth certificate but it definitely was for the police clearance. If you have the means, go this route. I used “Visa Logistics” in Cape Town for the police clearance and I had it within a week.
I hope this is helpful to others. Good luck with the process. It does require a lot of patience and attention to detail – exercise both and you’ll be ok. Read every detail on this website – it will help you succeed. Much gratitude to BritSimon.
June 13, 2019 at 19:29
Congratulations!
June 18, 2019 at 00:05
1NL-Mid march
2NL-April
Interview date-6th May
Case# 2019AS72**
Birthplace- UAE
Currently living in Pakistan, so my interview was in Islamabad Pakistan US embassy
Interview time-7am
Firstly I would like to explain my scenario, my husband lives in US but i have applied for DV before marriage so it came first instead of spouse visa.
I have reached Embassy around 6:45am , took shuttle service and crossed security check. I was the only DV case at that time because Pakistan isn’t eligible for dv lottery. At first counter they took my finger prints and gave me token and asked to wait for my number to be called for interview. After 15mins , my token number appeared on second counter where they asked me for documents and pay fee(330$)
Birth certificate
Academic records
Marriage certificate
Work Experience( I’m mechanical Engineer)
They don’t ask me for police certificate and financial statement, although i have both fully prepared.
After 20 mins , my token number appeared on 3rd counter for final interview
CO- Good morning
Me- Good morning
CO- you will say truth (oath)
Me- yes i will
CO- where you were born?
Me- AbuDhabi UAE
CO- when did you come back?
Me- i was just 4 years old when my family shifted to pakistan
CO- what was your father occupation in UAE?
Me- He was veterinary doctor
CO- and mother
Me- Housewife
CO- so you graduated from pakistan?
Me-yes
CO- are you married?
Me-yes
CO- where is your husband, why don’t you take him with you?
Me- he’s already in USA
CO- what?
Me-yes
CO- why aren’t you going on his visa? It came first?
ME- yes
CO- funny ?
Me- smiled*
CO- have you searched any job in us?
Me- no, but i will for sure
CO- ok we are done with interview, everything is fine we will contact you soon.
ME- so my visa is approved?
CO- no not yet, we don’t need any further information from you, we just want to have a look on it.
Me- ?
CO- she gave me white paper (have a nice day)
Me- thank you
On 6th may my case shows administrative processing, after some days the status was changed to ready , i was hell worried whats going on. On 21st may status changed to administrative processing again. Finally on 29th may ceac status was changed to issued.(happiest day of my entire journey of DV)
On 30th may I received an email from Embassy that your passport is ready to collect from your selected location.
My advice is to be patient and fully prepared. No need to panic but its human nature no one can help it (i think). Be confident at time of interview.
August 9, 2019 at 23:00
Congratulations Javaria, I had my interview this month 1st of August 2019 and was successful. My only concern is they mentioned the nationality on my visa as UAE. Is it mentioned on your visa too ?
June 18, 2019 at 23:40
Finally now it’s my turn to share my experience of interview))))
First of all i would like to thank Simon for all what he does, for his patient and hard work.
It takes a lots of time and energy to keep this site alive and i wish long, healthy and prosperous life. God Bless You!!!
So now about my experience, i believe it’s unique one and i can bet about it. I am from post soviet country Kyrgyzstan (but we are Asians as well) , which goes under Europe on DV Lottery and my wife is from Indonesia, which comes from Asia… and both of us living in UAE and my wife is main applicant. Actually she never know about this lottery and as per statistic it’s very low chance to win from Asia and especially from Indonesia.
So for us it was a bit confusing, as we didn’t know anything about preparing documents and which one is required for each country and we decided to have an interview in Abu Dhabi.. Luckily this website clarified most of my doubts and answered all the questions.. which i can’t enough.
Case number 2019AS76**
DS 260 submited end of May 2018
2NL Midle of May of 2019
Interview 17.06.2019
passport with the Visas received 18.06.2019
For the documents at the end it was even easier then we expect, as per check list of the US Embassy in UAE and + Bank statement. For me they just took Birth certificate, Police Clearance for my home country and UAE, Passport copy and marriage certificate, i prepared my Military Service Certificate, High School and University Diploma, which they didn’t even ask.
Interesting point is, they did ask for financial document (bank statement, Sponsor or any), however mentioned that if we have, otherwise it’s OK.
The day X….
We had interview by 08:00 am, so we booked hotel near by and we were well well ready, had breakfast and came to Embassy by 07:45 am. It was already big queue, however we went inside after 10-15 minutes. Normal Security check up and only car key kept in Security hut, as we already left all the belongings in the car. We took the queue number 614, which means already 14 numbers in front of us for immigrant Visas… so we waited around 1 hour submitted Documents, then Fingers Scan and long 2 hours of waiting for the Interview. It was private small room with the consulate at the beginning and queue was going very slow… that’s why i believe they open another window in Common Hall, where they receive documents second Consul and at the end 3rd one as well. We were excited to go inside, so our wish came true….
So the Interview itself:
Co: What is your name? to my wife
My Wife: ****
Co: And what is your name , sir?
Me:***
Co: Please have a seat…. so do you promise that you say only truth? (Don’t remember exactly…)
Us: Yes we promise…
Note: Consul didn’t mention any name and even not looking while asking question, so it was a bit confusing, but as we over prepared, my wife is main applicant and she answered all this unaddressed questions..))
Co: How long do you live in UAE?
My Wife: ***
Co: How long do you live in UAE, sir?
Me:***
Co: Where do you work?
My wife: ***
Co: How about you, sir?
Me:***
Co: When did you married?
Me: Year
My wife: the date…. at the same time….. which was a bit funny…. and strange at the same time….
then i just joked that it’s the same date of my wife birthday )))) and Co smiled for the first time:
Co: What is a highest Education level?
My Wife:***
Co: It looks fine and now i will go for further process, where we were confused a bit and she (Co) added that she is giving us our original documents, but passports we gonna received within 2-3 days….
The interview was like 3-5 minutes maximum and by reading all the interview experiences here i did expect this to be quick, but not that much…)))
So Today 18.06.2019 we collect our envelope and passport from the Emirates Post with the Visas on it….
P.S. My wife was so nervous, while we waited…. that i started as well, as she was main applicant and she would be answering all the questions…. however it went very smooth and quick….
So now we are planning our New American Life journey….))))
i would like to tell all the candidates to prepare all the documents well and you will find answers for all the questions from BritSimon… and just be relaxed and confident while answering the questions!!!
and Very Important is say only truth….!!!!
Good luck to everyone and feel free to ask questions…..))
June 18, 2019 at 23:52
Congratulations. One day for the passport being returned is great!!
June 19, 2019 at 13:01
Hello Darlingtine hope your interview when well yesterday,?? im also from cameroon, still waiting for 2nl, what’s your case number??
June 21, 2019 at 02:15
i would like to share
my interview experience stories
case no: 2019AS5***
2nl : april
interview appointment date: 16 june
Kathmandu , Nepal
I have all required documents of sponsor i-134, w2 , 1040 ,welcome letter .
to all if you have money in your bank account then take bank statement with you.
they wont take your bank statement when they keep your documents before interview but if consular ofiicer have a doubt that your sponsor wont support you or you only have welcome letter or your sponsor do not meet poverty guideline income range then your bank statement wil work for you at the end of the interview if the consular officer asks question like ho much money will you take with you to USA.
most of the people in nepal through dv thinks that bank statement is not required but it is required for the above mentioned conditions .
Before my interview one person was told to bring another sponsor and his passport is given back to him. after copleting my interview i ask him about what the consular ask about sponsor , then he said the consular officer doubt that sponsor will support him so consular asked him how much money you will being with you then he said i told him 4 thoudand dollar but he dont have statement so he was told to bring another sponsor.
so to everyone , you enter foreign consulate of us embasssy in your country to get visa not to get reasons if you are liable to get visa. so be well prepared before going to interview. and please read simons article about how much money you should have in your bank account if you dont have sponsor.
another main thing is speak confidently and truth then you wont have problems
documents required at interview:
2nl
passport
2 5cm*5cm photos of you
ds260 confirmation page
birth certificate
slc and high school marksheet
police report
sponsor documents
you must bring originas and photocopies of all documents.
place above mentioned documents in one and
other documents in another set. bring all required documents that are required for you which are not mentioned above.
actual interview:
what is your name?
are you married?
do you have child?
do u take drugs?
with whom you live now?
what do u do?
do u have ******* disease? – i said yes and i have attached it on medical report
what isit?- i answered
then consular officer said welcome to america. i was’nt asked any more question than mentioned above
obviously they were asking others about sponsors in deatil. nothing was asked to me about sponsor as well as about where i will go and what i will do. nothing is asked about usa to me at all.
i was speaking loudly and clearly with confident and speak truth .
so to every readers dont listen to hoax listen to simon .
i got mail to collect documents next day and on 19 i get the passport with visa and documents to be given at POE.
thank you simon you do great work to help me, i was following your posts since 2018.
hava a nice day Sir.
June 21, 2019 at 02:47
Congratulations, and best of luck!
June 21, 2019 at 23:56
A family of four,
Arrived 30 minutes before schedule,
Did all the checking requirements,
INTERVIEW:
CO:Good morning guys
Us: Good morning madam
Co: which one of you are a Winer?
Wife: me
CO: What is your highest education level?
Wife: Answers
CO: Where you guys first met?
Wife: Answered
CO: What is your current job?
Wife; Answered
CO: How long have you been in your current job?
Wife: Answers
Co:( to wards me) What do you do for living sir
Me : Answered
Co: (to wards her)Where you going on the US?
Wife: Answered
Co: How long your sponsor lived there?
Wife: Answered
CO: CONGRATULATIONS your visa is approved
She gave us one yellow and one white papers and told us we can pick up our passport via DHL where we applied for.
US: THANK YOU have a good!
Started 8:30 in the morning
Ended 8:34
Place: US embassy Addis Ababa
Date June 11
Thank you Simon all the way long. We promised that we will donate to your channel once we have settled there.
Good luck every one!
June 22, 2019 at 14:09
4 minutes to change your life. Perfect. Well one!
June 27, 2019 at 09:19
Absolutely! You have so many inputs in that as well. Thank you once again Simon
June 22, 2019 at 02:52
Bora
our visa have been aproved on June 13!! I would like to thank u brit for your unrserved help in this long and confusing dv joureny. This page also one of a major blog that peoples are using for dv process.
Here we go our interview experiance.
Case no 25###
Interiew date june 13 @ 2:00
We arive early at 12:00 local time it help as to finish every thing & depart the embassy primise @ 3:30.
We pass usual security check up and pay 330 for 3 person @ 29 birr exchange Rate that=ETB 28,710.
then we wait for about 30 Min and called @ window #10 smiley leady she ask for finger print 3of us and we swear to tell the truth. Our baby was sleept on my neck the co ask to show her the baby then she check her facewith photo on passport properly.
Co. What is ur highest level of study & from where?
Me:####
Co. What about B.A & from where?
Me: answered
Co. How did u meet ur wife and when did u merried?
Me: answered
Co: who is ur sponsor? Where did he live? How he migrated to usa? What he did now( his position &place of work)?
Me: answered
Co.where do u work and ur position?
Me. ###
Co. What is ur duty and responsibility?
Co. Why ur grade 10 certificate washed by water? Why don’t u replaced it?
Co. I told her as it is washed by rain inserted through half closed car window. And all info are readable on certificate that why I fail to replaced it.
Co. Congratulations ur visa have been approved.after 1 week U can collect from dhl. & she gave us 1 white and yellow paper.
I chosed english and she don t ask my wife.
June 22, 2019 at 14:18
Awesome!
June 23, 2019 at 21:37
interview experience yaounde cameroon
interview date:11 June 2019
first NL: 15may2018
completed DS260:20may 2018
unlocked DS260 and re submitted on 17 sep 2018
did my medicals 6 may 2019
case number:2019AF28XXX
interview time:8:30am
i got up at 5am prayed and rechecked my documents to be sure
i later look my bath and prepared
i got to the embassy at 7am and met a line in front of the building
at 7:15am the security officers started the check
those without bags were given priority by the security officers
we were let in in groups of fives and checks was about confirming out appointment, scanning for any metal object while phones were retained at the level of the check
we were then ushered into the inner skirt of the embassy
at the second security check, they checked our passport and second NL and numbers were given to us
i was asked to pay the interview fee of 330$(195000frs). the officer also collected my documents(originals and photocopies in 2 separate files)
he later gave me a receipt for my payment and asked me to have a sit in the hall
after a very long wait of about 3hrs, my number was called for my finger prints to be taken
the officer asked some questions which were
how old are you?
are you married?
who is your sponsor?
after he asked me to have a sit and wait for my interview
about 10minutes latter my number was called again for my interview
the CO was a white very kind and friendly man
my interview questions were
what is your name?
he asked me to say it slowly
when did you have your advance level?
what is your first names?
i answered all and he said congrats i approve your visa.
he took a yellow paper wrote my name and asked me to come on Thursday 13 and collect my passport
i want to say a very thanks to Mr BritSimon for this blog, i learned a lot from here and also to those who are still waiting to just be patient ant trust in God for only He can do it
June 24, 2019 at 17:31
2019EU184xx
AKD Post/TURKMENISTAN
Dear Simon,
First of all a BIG THANK YOU for your tireless efforts to guide us through this long process.
I just wanted to share my experience too.
* Submitted my DS 260 early June 2018. (There was no need to rush, realized that after coming across your blog)
* Unlocked and changed the answer to the question: “Is your spouse and children immigration with you to US ?” From No to Yes, confusing the word “immigrate” with “travel”. No big deal anyway.
* Received an e-mail for further documents from KCC on December 26.
* Visa bulletin jumped by 5000 for April (from 13 500 to 18500) to everyone’s surprise.
* Submitted docs on 05 March 2019, after renewing passport. Too late for April and May interview.
* Got June 13 interview.
* Did the medical tests on May 29.
* Interview on June 13, 15:30
Passed over the documents to cashier.
She took one by one and prepared for CO in order. Asked for the payment for 4 family members and assigned a que.
Called in for interview.
CO greeted us politely and asked to raise the right hand to swear that everything that we say is true.
She started asking about our marriage.
– when and how we met
– who decided for the wedding, parents or us
– is it our first marriage
– is there any other children outside this marriage
– was there any moment in our marriage where my wife felt unhappy about
Then CO started asking about our travel history.
I had visas to Russia, China, UAE, India, Iran, Turkey, UK.
Thankfully I took my old passport with mem which she was happy about. She looked at the border stamps very carefully then asked about almost each country why I was there. The purpose of the visits. I replied to each one of them to the best of my knowledge.
CO said: Thank you for coming well prepared to the interview. All your documents are in order.
Then she asked if I came from different city to the interview and when I was planning to go back to my city.
I replied: “If the visa is approved and will be issued in one or two days, I will stay at the hotel and take them with me”
CO said: “Congratulations, I approve your visas, you can come and pick up docs at 4pm tomorrow”
I said: “Thank you ma’am, this is one of the best moments in my life and raised two thumbs up with a big smile on my face”
Took the passports and immigration package next day and flew into US (Dallas, TX) on 19 June.
One more thing, I couldn’t pay the immigration fee initially due to the typo on immigration fee instructions letter that was given to me with the package. Just type in the A number in your visa if USCIS can not recognise it. If it is 8 digits, just put zero first. A number (Alien Registration Number) must be 9 digits after the letter A.
HUGE THANK YOU to Simon. Donations for Sofia’s tree house will be made as soon as I open a bank account and get a card.
It’s EASY if you follow the Simon’s guidance. PATIENCE is key in this process.
Congratulations and good luck for the remaining winners.
June 25, 2019 at 00:31
Thanks for the detailed story – that helps others like you.
June 26, 2019 at 10:07
Hello everyone it’s been a long journey I’ll like to give a wrap up of my case cuz it was really a hassle…..
This goes to 2020 winners in particular
Please if you don’t have your confirmation page with you for one reason or the other please locate and keep possession of it. I played with an agent and she was in possession of it after I won I asked her for my page but she said she left it at home and I should come some other time and she finally said it’s missing… I tried using the forgot confirmation link to no avail but that’s was it I could not retrieve it certainly because I didn’t know the email she used she gave all her account credentials bit nothing came forth…. I was frustrated as I couldn’t know my interview date and time without the confirmation number I locked up myself in my room for a few days trying to get it but nothing I tried some agencies abroad (BBS netting)but nothing still…I asked Brit he said there’s nothing he can do to retrieve it…. I became worried the more since Brit had no way about my case then I wrote to KCC and explained to them they didn’t help either all they said was use the forgot confirmation link Then I decided I’ll go to the embassy for inquires.. then I received my 2nl and went to the embassy and I presented my plee to them and I was asked to proof I won I showed them.my 1nl and 2nl printed copies and my Ds 260 and other docs then they retrieved my interview details and gave me which was June 18th 8:30 am and as I left the embassy an email was sent to me to register my appointment with the embassy which I did and wrapped up the remaining steps of medicals and printing of docs.
INTERVIEW DAY
CONSOLAR YDE
Arrived 6:45 am
Case number 2019AF35105
Checkled in with the guards at about 8 am
Got in and paid the fee, passed my docs in two folders of original and xerox copies was asked to sit and wait for my number to be called
It was called and I went for the first phase of the interview. …
Me: good morning sir
Co: good morning
Co: what’s your name
Me xxx xxx xxx
Co: when did you get your A levels
Me: xxx xxx xxx
Co how old are u
Me xx
Co: OK young man that’s good go sit down and wait for your number
Minutes later a white lady who just refused some visas called and I got disturbed for a while then I became strong and went up
Co: how are you today
Me :fine thank you ma’am
Co: take up your hand
Do u promise to tell the truth and nothing else
Me: I do
Co: when did you get your A levels
Me :xx xx xxx
Co : what’s your current occupation
Me : student
Co : are you married , any children?
Me: no ma’am
Co:What’s the name of your current school
Me : xxx xxx xxx
Co with who are u going to live with and what’s your relationship with the person and the state where he lives
Me :my cousin in Wisconsin
Co congrats.. good luck in American in the yellow paper.
I know God walked me through the process just keep your hope and trust alive and your prayers to the point….
June 26, 2019 at 17:49
You should never have given an agent that power over you… glad it worked out ok in the end.
June 26, 2019 at 11:12
Hi Simon,
Visa interview today (EU22xxx), Budapest:
Arrived 15 mins before
Administration (all papers handed over)
Everyome was very kind.
Paid fee at cashier
CO called to a different window
CO was supernice
Questions: our occupation, school (only needed the high school degree), our plans, fingerprints.
In 5 mins done.
They said visa will be ready in a week. Hopefully π
Thanks for all the advices, will comment after we arrive to the US for sure.
July 1, 2019 at 01:15
USA EMBASSY YAOUNDΓ CAMEROON:
First of all I want to thank the Almighty God for itβs only through Him that I went through Him and by Him that everything went successfully. I want to thank you sir Brit Simon youβre really doing some good work out here. I was one of the quiet viewers on the blog. Very patient in every problem I had because I knew someone must have asked and Mr. Brit must have answered and that help me easy navigate through the blog. I just followed everything Brit said and it went as follows;
Case no: 2019AF25XXX
Submitted DS260 in June and didnβt unlocked.
Didnβt receive any email from KCC to send docβt but I did at the proper time following this blog. Didnβt receive an confirmation if theyβre satisfied with my documents but wrote to them and they confirm everything is ok; I did that after 3 weeks of my submission.
Received an email from them in April 29th about my appointment date and got my 2NL by 30th April.
Interview date/time: 18th June/ 08:30am.
Did medicals in May.
Documents: Birth Certificate+photocopies, Old and new passport(they took only the old one)+photocopies bio page, 2 passport size photo attached on the passport, Academic certificate(Oβ and Aβ levels)+photocopies, non-convictions(the one sent earlier and the updated one), sealed medical report, 1NL and 2NL + photocopies, interview fee.
Extra docβt I took; ID card+photocopies, transcript of university+photocopies. Separated photocopy from original and kept them in separate files. (Affidavits of support wasnβt asked).
Woke up by 03:09am prayed and thank God. Prepared everything by 06:30am I was at the embassy already with my dad who accompanied me there. We formed a line of two; immigrants and non-immigrants. By 07am they started checking-in. Non-immigrants were checked in first then we were checked in later. We later on enter the embassy were we gave our phones and appointment letter to see if our names featured on the list of appointments for that day. We passed through a security check machine and our bags also passed through a machine to see whatβs in it. After the checking there we then went into another section where we sat and waited for about 1-2hrs before call in for the interview. Our 2NL was checked again and we were given numbers. After that we went ahead and go paid our fees of $330(195,000frs). It was a man who collected it and took my documents and asked if I had my non-conviction among the documents I said yes. Then he told me to go and sit and wait for my interview.
After that I sat waiting for my number to be called just looking around while others where being interviewed. After about 2hrs my number was called in another window where the guy took my fingerprints then later on asked; you are? I gave my name. Are you married? No. Do you have kids? No. Do you have Aβ levels? Yes. How many papers did you pass in? I answered. How old are you? I answered. Have you ever been out of the country? Never. He said ok I should go back and wait for the proper interview. For about 45mins or so. The CO very young black guy(he should be in his late 20βs).
Me: Good day sir
CO: Swear that everything you say is true and nothing else but the truth.
Me: I swear.
Took my fingerprints.
CO: are you married?
Me: No.
CO: do you have kids?
Me: No
CO: why donβt I have kids?
Me: (I started laughing) then said Iβm still young.
CO: he giggled and said he was just kidding.
CO: do you have Aβ Levels?
Me: Yes
CO: how many papers?
Me: I answered.
CO: ok congratulations sir youβve been granted a visa. Welcome to America. Come on Thursday 20th and collect you visa.
He gave me a yellow paper.
Me: thank you sir and have a nice day.
CO: youβre welcome and same to you.
That was it. I was so excited. ??
Really thereβs nothing to fear there. I was so scared cause I didnβt follow the older of my names as in the passport when registering for my appointment but that wasnβt a problem. Everything went smooth and easy. I was so surprised after all Iβve about American embassy was totally different from what I experienced. Even when you arrive the embassy youβll be so relaxed? after see many people for the process too.
So just prepare all your documents plus extra ones like you ID Card, transcript etc. Thank you so much Mr. Brits Simon and also a BIG thanks to those who also wrote their own experience. That really built so much confidence in me. Iβll surely donate ones Iβm settle and also like to what with you Mr. Brit.
Wish you all the best. Be Patient! ??
July 1, 2019 at 18:37
Thank you for the fully detailed experience.
July 2, 2019 at 11:35
Thank you brits …… here is my interview experience .
1NL..15 may
Doc sub email-mar22
doc valid email- mar 26
2NL…30april
Interview date…27 june US embassy Addis Ababa
I reached at the embassy @1:20 am local time,when i reached thier ,there are alot of people in different line..i did my first security check at
2:10 am then entered inside.. i paid ETB 19,140 = (9570*2) for me and my husband.
i did pre interview at 2:40 am then young Ethiopian lady ask me 2 question it was ..have you guys been married before and did you guys stay more than six month in other country? then she tells us to wait the actual interview in the waiting area ..at 3:45 am we called for the actual interview .
Co- do you sware to tell the truth…
We..yes
Co-what is your highest level of education ?
me-xxxxxx
Co-what about your BA?
Me-xxxxxxxx
Co-You guys been married before?
we-xxxxx
Co- do you have a childrens?
me- no
Co-why did you travel to chaina?
me-xxxxxx
Co-What do you do for living now?
me-xxxxx
My husband -xxxxxx
Co-again he ask me about my trip to chaina?
me-I try to explain it briefly xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Co-who is your sponsor?
Me-xxxxxxxxxxx
Co-what is the relationship with your sponsor?
Me-xxxxxxxxx
Co-you are safe i approve your visas
Then he gave me yellow paper and he also told me to collect my passport after one week and again he said congratulations …
This is all about my journey thank you so much brits
July 2, 2019 at 19:06
Hi brit
I have already shared my interview experience on one of the forums that you moderate but I want to post there so that those who visit here too can benefit
the time and date for theΒ interview was 2nd july 2019, 9:30 am but I was there by 7:00 and as soon as I got there I was told to start the process so I joined line
Let’s skip to the interview itself
Because of the mistake on the sch cert I did an affidavit of support and I gazetted it too..
Then I took every document that I can use to support my claims in terms of the year of birth mistake( it included my old passport, I had written SAT before so I took the ticket I used to write the exams which had the correct date of birth, when I was in shs 2 I wrote novdec exams so I took that along as well..
I was the 3rd to be interviewed, I wore a white shirt with a black slim tie and I was smiling like I was mad..
CO: raise your hand blah blah blah
Me: I swear
CO: What is the name of school you attended
Me: which one high school or university??
CO: high school
Me: Prempeh college
CO: oh okk then you proceeded to kwame Nkrumah university??
Me: Yes
CO: it seems there is a problem with your date of birth.
Me: yes instead of 1993, it was typed 1994. I contacted waec and they said there is nothingΒ they could d about it but they told be I can make an affidavit and gazette it.
CO then takes a criticalΒ look at the cert for like 10 secs.
Do you have any documents to support the date of birth??
Me:yes please.. I gave her my old passport
CO starts comparing the old one to the new one for like 15 secs..
Co: is that all??
Me: no please. I handed out my SAT ticket which had my date of birth on it..then I added my novdec to it..
Β CO takes a look at the documents I just presented
She then types something on the computer
CO: What will you be doing at the USA
Me: please come again
CO: What do you intend going at the US
Me: I will like to be a teacher but i will have to get my masters degree first
CO: What do you do now??
Me: am currently doing my national service
CO: at where??
Me: I told her
CO: come again
Me: I repeat
CO: Where will you be staying in the US
Me: Texas
CO: why Texas??
Me: My elder brother stays there.
CO: ok
Co: have you applied for a visa b4?
Me: Yes but I wasn’tΒ able to come for the interview
Co: that doesn’t count
Me: oh okk
Co: are you married. Do you have any kids
Me: I said no to all..
She started doing some typing mean while I can literally hear my heartΒ pounding out of my body but I kept my cool tho (still smiling like am mad)
CO starts giving me back my original documents which included my old passportΒ (my heart skipped upon seeing but immediately calmed down when u open and I realizedΒ it was the old one)
She packs the documents and she placed the new passport into the folder along with the other documents and she placed in below her… all along I was staring at her still smiling
Β THEN she said the magic words “am approving your visa” whiles smiling.. she then hands me the white paper..
I think I was over prepared with my documents, cos they didn’t take most of them which included the Affidavit of support..nothing was asked about my sponsor lol
the above narration happened in less 3 minutes..
I thank God for this experience
And I also thank you brits.
My advice is to
Be confident, Speak bold and truthfully.. if you don’t understand a question kindly let the CO repeat or rephrase
Dress very decent, if you like put on tie
Get your documents in order and know where each and every single documents is located.
If you are in a situationΒ which is similarΒ to mine, I will only urge you to over prepare with your documents, anything that you thinkΒ might support ur case
Search the Internet for materials that you can read to help you prepare, if you by chance get a forum, make sure you read almost everything that has been posted previously, you can go as far as 2014 forums.
Last, smile, smile, smile and look right into his/her eyes..
Thank you Brit
Β
July 2, 2019 at 20:03
Congratulations and well done.
July 5, 2019 at 14:08
Dear Brit Our interview held on March now we settled in USA.Everyone should be truthful at the intervirw.USA give people many opportunities to live happily.Fluent in English is much valuable for lead a successful life here.We found jobs.Children schooling.We were so lucky to have u in our every matter arose during this journey.Thanks Brit.Love you lot.
July 5, 2019 at 15:18
Now itβs my turn to write about my interview experience. I will, however, write about my complete journey from how it all started to how it ended since I believe my βoddβ story would serve as a good lesson to many others here on this blog and possibly help them avoid doing the same mistakes I did. This is going to be a long read, so you have been warned ?
Case Number: 2019AS11xxx
Foreign State of Chargeability: Lebanon
Interview Location: U.S Embassy, London β United Kingdom
Interview Date/Time: 3 July 2019, at 10:00 AM
Hereβs how it all started:
Back during late 2011 I started hearing about the U.S Green Card Lottery and that got me very interested (especially after visiting the USA first time late 2010 and falling in love with the country). At the time, I had no idea whatsoever about the process so just like many people would do, I used Google and clicked on the first search result I got. It was an agency/company claiming to be specialized in βhandlingβ the GC process from A to Z, so I provided my contact information. Few days later I get a call (U.S number) offering me a package for 10-years in which they make sure to add me to the lottery process and had an option to buy a package for couples (I wasnβt married at the time yet but was in a relationship). Me being so ignorant about the process, I did indeed purchase the 10-years plan. If you are interested to know how much I paidβ¦. wellβ¦..it was 1,500$. I know itβs crazy, but I was like βwell 150$ per year for 10 years doesnβt sound too bad, and who knows I might get luckyβ.
In 2012, they sent me an email asking to provide a photo and my information as per the passport, which I did, and then they disappeared until the following May 2013 when they called me to let me know that I wasnβt selected and that they will enroll me in the next fiscal year and tried to upsell me an βupgradeβ package since I have good qualifications and that would boost my chances. I refused to buy any upgrades and informed them that I will only stick with the 10-year plan that I bought and so be it.
I got married later in 2013, and in 2014 I received an email to provide photos and information for me and my wife, which I did. After that I had moved to another country for work, so I got a new mobile number and switched off my old one, so I lost contact with them.
No contact from 2014 to 2018 (YES, 2018), I was back home when I received a call (U.S number again). I knew it was them so I ignored them because I knew it was going to be the same story βYou havenβt been selected and will offer me an upgrade packageβ. They rang me 4-5 times during that week until I finally decided to pick up and listen to their BS.
They informed me that I was selected this time and that now for the next step, I need to work with their βattorneysβ to make sure I fill the forms correctly and be ready for interview and that would cost me 8,000$ LOL
I asked for genuine information that proves I was indeed selected, so they sent me an email which basically shows the βYou have been selected for further processingβ message but copy-pasted on their website, while hiding the Confirmation Number as well as the Case Number. I refused to accept this as genuine evidence and told them that I will only continue this conversation if they provide me with the official link to the announcement. This is where they made the mistake by providing me with the confirmation number. So, I checked it and it does indeed say that I was selected. They then asked for credit card information to transact 8,000$ but again I refused and told them I need at least 2 weeks to verify the information. They tried to persuade me to pay instantly and warned me that a delay may result in losing the VISA since it is a first-come-first serve. I told them if they donβt leave me alone for 2 weeks, I donβt want to proceed. They said they will call me in 2 weeks for a follow up. During the 2 weeks I was able to read all about the process on state.gov website and realized that the whole thing didnβt involve any fees and to be specifically aware from 3rd party agencies/companies to avoid being scammed.
I proceeded and quickly filled and submitted the DS260 forms, blocked the phone number of that company and ignored their emails. When they realized I had submitted the forms, they started offering me 30%, 40% and even 80% discount to go with them for the next steps, which I still ignored.
You guys should NEVER give someone else the power over you, just like what Simon keeps saying. I was lucky this time to escape being ripped off (or maybe scammed) by this agency, but unfortunately it is not always the case so be careful.
Up until this stage I had no idea about Simonβs blog. Few months later, my wife got pregnant and she started searching on what happens in this case and how can the baby be added to the application, which is how she found this amazing blog. She forwarded the βHow to add a newborn to DS260β link to me, and it was the moment this blog became my everyday read for the past 8 months. I started reading as many articles and comments I could lay my eyes on and it provided me with a lot of information about the whole process from A to Z. My wife and I will NEVER be able to thank you enough Simon. You are an amazing person.
After examining the VB pace, I estimated our Case Number to be interviewed in July, which happens to be the moth my wife is due, so it was really a race against time. As expected, we received the 2NL late May for a July interview. We started preparing and overpreparing our documents, translated what needed translation and made sure everything is ready. We scheduled our medicals and took them 2 weeks before the interview date. In the meantime, I kept reading the comments on this blog on daily basis and then realized something that got me extremely worried. Remember how I lost contact with that company from 2014 to 2018? You know what that means? Yes, it means the photos used in the DV Entry are at least 3-4 years old and that could potentially lead to disqualification. We still decided to proceed with the interview since we could afford to lose the associated fees for a life-changing opportunity.
Interview Day:
We arrived at the embassy at 9:20 AM. We saw several people lined up already and proceeded straight to a little counter positioned outside where they check the Appointment Letter and DS260 confirmation pages. We were instructed to go to some coffee shop and return at 9:40 AM to enter the embassy and told us that since e have an Immigration VISA appointment, we donβt need to wait in line and will pass straight through. When we returned at 9:40 AM, we were escorted by a lady to the first entrance. A nice black security gentleman checked our Appointment Letter and DS260 confirmations and when he realized it was a DV Lottery appointment, he fist-bumped me and my wife and wished us luck and let us in to the security check area. We didnβt bring any bags or laptops (as per the embassyβs website) and only had a folder with our documents, my wife had a sealed plastic bottle of water and some snacks. The security still asked me wife to open the bottle of water and drink from it, which she did. We were then allowed to proceed to the main entrance hall where we found a massive line of people waiting. That line would take at least 1 hour. While I was standing in line, my wife went through the U.S Citizens line (was empty) and asked the lady at the registration counter if we had to wait with the others knowing we have an IV appointment. We were instructed to skip the line; the lady checked our names in and printed a paper which she stuck on our documents. The paper had a token number 910. We were informed to go to level 2 in the elevator and to the Immigration VISAs section, which we did. Upon arrival to level 2, the number 909 was displayed on the screen so we were up next. 5 mins later it was our turn to present the documents. A British gentleman asked for the following:
– Original Passport with a U.S passport-sized photo for each
– Birth Certiuficate + copy for each (we didnβt have originals but provided a true certified and translated copy)
– Marriage Certificate + 2 copies. Be careful guys, they ask for 2 copies. I was lucky that I had copied EVERY document twice so make sure you overprepare. They donβt do any copies at the embassy in London and would ask you to leave the embassy to get copies and maybe reschedule the interview.
– Engineering Degree + copy since this is my highest degree. High School degree wasnβt requested.
– Bank Statements. I presented 3 banks statements for 3 accounts (USD, LBP and GBP). They didnβt ask for the I-134 even though I had it ready with me.
– Police Certificates + copy for each
After submitting the documents, the gentleman asked us if we had done our medicals already, to which we said yes. He said that the results didnβt arrive to the embassy, knowing that 4 days before the interview I sent an email to the Medical Clinic to get a confirmation that the results were delivered, to which they confirmed. He said not to worry but our application will be pending until the medical results arrive. He then gave us a read paper and asked us to proceed to the cashier for payment.
Before paying, I called the medical clinic to check about the results and informed them what the embassy told me. The clinic told me that they delivered the results on 25th June and if the embassy doesnβt have it already, then they need to send an official request to the clinic manager for a copy of the results, and that the embassy knows the procedure already. I went back to that gentleman and updated him about my conversation with the clinic. He said OK he will check with his supervisor. I then proceeded to the cashier and paid 660$ in GBP cash. Guys be aware that the exchange rate at the embassy is high. The normal rate would have been 522 GBP but I was asked to pay 542 GBP. The cashier then gave me a receipt and told me to wait for the actual interview when the same original number 910 is displayed on the screen.
The gentleman who checked our documents then calls me to tell me that the results have been found and that our application is fully complete now. We then proceed to the waiting area. I was very nervous and worried about our photos during the entry process being 3-4 years old and have been used in previous entries as well.
15 mins later our number shows on the screen and we proceed to the corresponding window where a nice white American gentleman was waiting. Hereβs how the interview went:
We: Good morning
CO: Good morning. Letβs start with your bio-metrics
*fingerprints done*
CO: please raise your right hand. Do you swear that the information provided is true and everything you say today is the truth and nothing but the truth to the best of your ability?
We: we swear
CO: so you have been married sinceβ¦β¦*looking at the Marriage Certificate*
Me: Tomorrow is our 6th anniversary, which happens to be the 4th of July and will have a little one coming soon *me pointing at my 38-week pregnant wife*
CO: *smiling* congratulations you guys. Yes we will talk about the little one towards the end.
We: Thank you *smiling back*
CO: Tarek, tell me what do you do?
Me: I am an engineer and have been working for an American Company for 11 years. Started at the branch in Lebanon and then transferred to the branch in the UK.
CO: OK you are approved.
CO: now regarding the little one. We will issue your VISA in the next 2 days since Tomorrow in holiday (4th of July) so expect the VISA to be issued on Friday the 5th. When the baby is born, the Birth Certificate will show that the birth was after the VISA was issued so the baby can travel without a VISA and at the POE they know the procedure so thee is nothing to worry about.
Me: this sounds great. What happens if for example my wife goes into labor Today or Tomorrow?
CO: in that case, donβt hold back *smiling* and have the baby. Get a birth certificate and a passport and let us know so we can do the necessary adjustments, and again there is nothing to worry about.
We thanked the Consular Officer and left. In and out in 35 mins.
We were very happy and, on the way, out, my wife went to that nice security gentleman and told him we got approved, to which he smiled and which us the best in the USA.
Once again, I would like to thank Simon for the enormous effort and all the help he provides through this outstanding blog, and to all the members who enrich this blog with useful comments. Simon, please accept our small donation to keep this blog going, and I wish everyone who still has an interview to go, all the best and the DSV2020 winners all the luck
With love
Tarek
July 5, 2019 at 16:25
What an experience. Great story mate! Good luck for you and your family. I am sure you’ll do awesome in USA.
My interview is in early August. Wish me luck ??
July 5, 2019 at 17:23
All the best π
As long as you have all the necessary documents and the required qualifications, there is no reason not to be approved.
July 5, 2019 at 17:34
Wow Tarek! What a journey! Must have been really nerve-wracking! Glad you sailed through! Congratulations! π
July 5, 2019 at 18:14
@Anna it was indeed a wild journey. At some point I was convinced we will be rejected since the photos used during eDV were several years old, but the CO didnβt even mention that.
The status on CEAC went from READY to AP then to ISSUED. We are very happy and the baby can be born in peace. We canβt wait.
All the best to everyone in their journeys.
July 5, 2019 at 18:37
I bet that was a relief! Good luck with the little one. And a great story to tell your kids and grandkids on how Papa and Mama came to the US!
July 5, 2019 at 19:19
Congratulations Tarek! I’ve been searching all over for a Lebanese experience! I’m also chargeable to Lebanon and have my interview in Brussels next month π
May I ask you if they requested a minimum amount in the bank statements ? were you above 30 000$ ?
Thank you and Mabrouk!
July 6, 2019 at 11:25
@Kasem thank you for your wishes and all the best to you in your interview.
They didnβt specify an exact amount for Bank Statements, but I showed 3 statements for a total of around 95,000$ (a family of 2).
If you are able to have an I-134 with you, that would even be better.
Cheers!
July 5, 2019 at 21:47
What an interesting story – thank you for the great detail and honesty. You can imagine my horror that you paid $1500 but well done not paying the 8k. The photos (and other changes) are one of the reasons that NO ONE should use these types of agents/service. I am glad it did not come back to haunt you.
July 5, 2019 at 22:47
Yes Simon I totally agree with you. I wish I had known about your blog earlier, but everything fell in place eventually.
July 7, 2019 at 06:00
I am Jalia from Uganda under case No. 20190000**87 and this is my interview experience from Nairobi Kenya. My interview was scheduled for the 5th of December and was pushed to 11th December at 7:15am for reasons best known to the embassy.
Allow me to fill you in straight from day1 of my medical assessment till the final day. My medical assessment took place on the 29th and 30th of November 2018 at 7am and 8am respectively. A day before attending my medical appointment, I went by the medical center (IOM) to find out whether I had all the requirements as listed. On this day I was given an enquiry tag and let into IOM. I was then given an appointment sheet clearly stating day1 and 2 procedures respectively and was asked to go by the vaccination room where you should provide all previous medical records especially vaccinations. I was then given an invoice of my medical bill which I could pay after day1 of my medical appointment.
On day one of my medical appointment I arrived at IOM at 6:30am and I was not alone as many of us lined up outside the center waiting for instructions. At 7am, they were open for business. We were given day1 tags and let into the center.
Step 1: at the reception, I handed in my passport and appointment schedule sheet then asked to wait in the day1 waiting area. A few minutes later, I was called and a passport size picture was taken for my medical certificate. At this point, I had to wait out the long queue of all day1 applications and we were all later taken through the center being shown where the lab, the X-ray and the vaccination area were located. We were then taken into a counselling room and given tips on how to manoeuvre through the process successfully. Note: please do not forget to print out the IOM appointment letter sent to you when you book your appointment with them and arrive as early as possible for it.
Step 2. I was sent to the lab where my passport, a passport size pic, visa appointment letter and IOM appointment sheet were requested. A blood sample and a urine sample were then taken after which I moved to the X-ray waiting area. At this point, I was asked to present my passport and another passport size pic. I was also asked whether I was pregnant. Note: cases of pregnancy do not require an X-ray. An X-ray was then taken and I was handed back my appointment sheet and off I went ready for day2. I went straight to the bank and made my payment of 328usd for my assessment and secured the required receipt.
Step 1: Day 2 came. We went through a similar process at the gate then were let in. On day2 you are required to walk in and deposit your appointment sheet in a pigeon hall at the reception area then sit at the day2 waiting area for proceeding instructions.
Step 2. We were then moved to the doctor’s review area. I was called in, my weight, height and blood pressure were taken. An eye test was done too then was asked a few general questions like have you ever lived with a relative who had TB, have you ever been addicted to any drug… Most of if not all the answers to these questions are no.
Step 3: I was then sent to another doctor’s waiting room and 30minutes later was called in. A physical examination was done. The doctor explained to me my blood, urine and X-ray results after which I was sent to the vaccination area. I was given my vaccines and I was handed a CD and a Medical Certificate. Note: these two items are very important and should be guarded jealousy by you. Well I personally laminated my certificate. That was it for day two and I was out of there by 11am.
The interview day was close but a day before it was due I recieved an email from the embassy informing me that my appointment had been postponed to 11th December. Note: Please frequently check your emails. It wasn’t long before this day came. Interview day….
Step 1. I arrived at the embassy at 6:30am as the drizzles came down that cold morning. I found many others already in line and I advise that no matter the time of your appointment, please get to the embassy an hour or so earlier. At the gate I was asked for the visa appointment letter and my passport. A body check was done, handed back my two documents then was asked to move to the next security check point. At this point I was asked for my passport and a passport size picture plus my visa appointment letter. They were returned and I moved to the next security destination where I was asked to place all electronic devices in a storage box then I noticed something. Please note: do not come with large electronic devices like iPads, laptops among others. Also don’t bring your CD from IOM. They have only space enough to accommodate your phones and a few small items like earphones, keys and coins. I was then asked to move into the first door carrying my box of belongings. At this point, an electronic search is done and all bags are scanned. I was then given a tag for my belongings and off I went to the visa offices.
Step 2. On arrival, I was sent to the reception where my passport and visa appointment letter were requested. I was given a coupon with a number and a small contact form to fill plus my passport then asked to join the others seated outside as I waited to be called. And bang, the cold was out to get us as we waited eagerly. 30 minutes in, my number was called to window 7 and a kind Kenyan lady addressed me. She requested the following documents.
-passport + a copy
-birth certificate + a copy
-certificate of good conduct from Uganda.
-O-level and A-level certificates + copies of each.
-2 passport size pics.
-death certificate + a copy (this was for my belated daughter who was included in my DV application)
She handed me an invoice and asked me to pay my visa fees of 330usd at window 10. Note: please bring this money with you on your interview and if you have it in Kenyan shillings, please have some extra on you to cover the exchange rate viarations. As I waited in the payments queue, I was lucky to observe other applicants as their interviews proceeded at the other windows. After my payment, a receipt was processed and retained as I was sent back to the haunted cold waiting area outside with the same coupon to await my interview.
Step 3: finally, it was time for my interview after about an hour of waiting. I walked in confidently to window 7. Opened my file of endless documents and the interview was on. I was interviewed by another very kind American lady.
Counsular: Jalia. Good morning .
Me: good morning ma’am
Consular: Rise your right hand and swear that the information you provided is true and all questions asked will be answered truthfully.
Me: raised right hand + eye contact. I do.
Consular: which year did u graduate from high school?
Me: answered.
Consular: what is your highest level of education?
Me: Bachelor’s degree as I handed her my university certificate and transcript. These had not been requested prior to my interview.
She looked through them then typed some information into her computer and got back to me.
Consular: where is this university?
Me: answer
Consular: so for how long were you in Malaysia?
Me: answered.
Consular: what were you doing in Malaysia?
Me: studying.
Consular: I can see you lost your daughter, sorry about that. Are you married?
Me: yuh well… No am single.
Consular: got any other children?
Me: none
Consular: spouse?
Me: none.
Consular: where do you plan to live in USA?
Me: answered.
Consular: who is you sponsor in USA?
Me: I gave her his names and she smiled and said
Consular: no, who is he to you.
Me: He is my uncle.
Consular: how long has he lived in the United States?
Me: very long, I honestly don’t know how long.
Consular: does he have any family?
Me: yes, giving her a few details of the presence of a wife and number of kids.
Consular: did your sponsor give you any documents for me like financial support?
Me: no
Consular: Jalia, everything is perfect but I require one more document from you as she handed me a pink sheet where a certificate of good conduct from Malaysia was marked. She explained that she needed this because I had lived in Malaysia for more than a year. She also went out of her way to print and hand me the procedure of how to secure this letter. She then gave me back all my documents as earlier submitted + my payment receipt. At this point she said you will be able to secure that document in a month or two but as soon as you do, please send it along with your passport to the embassy via DHL. All instructions are on that pink sheet. I was already too happy that I passed my first leg by the time she asked me whether I had any more questions. I just asked asked her how to pronounce Massachusetts..
I was done for the day at around 11:45am and off I went to work on the required document.
A month later, I secured the letter and sent it along with my passport to the embassy. Two weeks later I picked up my sealed package plus my visad passport. Instructions are provided on what to do next.
I am a current permanent resident of the USA. I can’t thank you enough Brit for the channel but may you be and stay blessed.
July 8, 2019 at 23:36
Yes.
July 14, 2019 at 16:55
I had my interview on July 2nd at the Brussels Embassy.
I had made a mistake on my DS-260 in the section about my previous addresses, so I was extremely worried they wouldn’t let me change it and that they wouldn’t grant me the DV Visa.
I got to the embassy an hour early and they told me to come back 45 minutes later (15 minutes before my scheduled time).
Went through all the necessary security checks pretty quickly as there weren’t many people there for immigrant interviews. Took my number and went to sit down.
After 20 minutes they called my number and went to the window. They asked me for all the necessary documents (this was in my mother-tongue, dutch). This is where I told them I had made the mistake on the DS-260. The lady easily changed it without making a fuss. I had the correction printed out so she could easily make the change.
Afterwards, she told me to go pay for the visa at a different window, which I did.
Then I was called back to the same first window to prove that I had paid for the visa.
I also had prepared form i-134 which they didn’t even ask for (but have it prepared though, just in case they ask for it…)
Then I went back to sit down.
After 10 minutes waiting again they called me to another window to have the actual interview.
Here I took an oath of honesty.
Then the interviewer asked me where I was going to the US. – (New York, where I had lived before for 4.5 years)
He asked me what my highest degree was – (Bachelors)
Asked me if I was going to find a job in the field of my degree – (I told him, no, I was going into the field of my second diploma which was a conservatory diploma).
Then he told me the green card would be sent to the address that I had written down on my DS-260.
I told him that was perfect.
Then he congratulated me and told me everything was approved. The interview itself lasted like 3 minutes, it was over before I even knew it.
He said it would take maybe a little longer for everything to be sent due to it being so close to the 4th of July.
Eventually I actually got my passport and the closed envelope back on July 4th!
It was the perfect American present for that day!
July 14, 2019 at 16:57
Nice!
July 17, 2019 at 10:07
Case Number: 2019EU26XXX – Montenegro
Interview: 16 July US Embassy in Belgrade
– I arrived at the Embassy an hour earlier and they accepted me in. Passed the security control, and as soon as I entered the Embassy, a sweet woman welcomed me and informed me about the procedure and gave me a number and told me to wait until my number was called.
After like 10 minutes, my number appeared on the screen and I went there, and gave my documents.
Documents to take with yourself:
1. HONESTY (you can not print this document, you should always have it inside you, haha)
2. Appointment letter (they did not take it)
2. DS-260 confirmation page
3. Police Certificate
4. Court Certificate
5. Medical Results (sealed in an envelope – DO NOT OPEN)
6. University Diploma (Original + copy + translated)
7. High School Diploma (Original + copy – Not Translated since that was in English)
The man that was taking my documents asked me: Huh, so I see you won the lottery right?
Me: Yes.
The man: Good, how many times have you played the lottery?
Me: I was selected on my first try but back then I had no idea that there is a chance that my number does not get current, so after 2-3 months after selection, I found out a blog online (BritSimonSays), and learned the procedure better, so when I learned about this, I applied again for the DV2020.
The man: Okay good, that’s all from me, you can sit down and wait for your number to be called again.
-After like 15 minutes, I was called to pay the fee (330$) and sat back again to wait for the interview.
After 25 minutes, my number was called again and now it was the time for interview.
A very sweet young lady (I would say she was about 26 years old) welcomed me with a smile, And she asked me if I speak English. I said yes, and the she said now you will take the oath which I did in my mother language (Albanian) and the interview started.
Consul: What is your highest education level?
Me: *Answers*
Consul: Have you ever been arrested?
Me: *Answers*
Consul: Have you ever lived outside Montenegro?
Me: *Answers*
Consul: I see you have finished your high school and university in Albania, did you travel everyday?
Me: *Answers*
Consul: Does the person whose address you wrote in the DS-260 know about that?
Me: *Answers*
Consul: Well, you meet all the requirements. Congratulations, I wish you the best of luck in the United States and I will approve your visa today. (When she said this, I got an immediate smile I would literally say it was from my left ear to the right HAHA)
-Then I waited for like 3 minutes and the person who took my documents informed me that the embassy will send me the documents via DHL and said that if you check your case through CEAC website it will show Administrative Processing, but said that do not worry about this because you passed successfully, and the AP shows because your fingerprints will take a day or two to go through the system. He congratulated me and I thanked him and that was it.
I was done in 1 hour in 15 minutes, with the interview lasting about 2 minutes.
Last but not least, I would like to thank you BritSimon, for your job and for your answers (not only for my questions but also for the other questions answered) because I learned A LOT from your blog.
All the best to you and your family, and who knows, maybe one day we will meet in the United States, and we’ll have a drink! π
July 17, 2019 at 17:13
I loved your first document point!
Congratulations. You’re buying the beers!
July 17, 2019 at 12:09
hi brit.
three months after my interview, my case statut still on ready. finaly it changes to issued last week. thank you Brit for your advises. you are an angel for dv winners spacialy those of 2019 with the new procedure
July 17, 2019 at 17:23
Great!
July 17, 2019 at 17:35
I don’t know why they did not take the passport. Your visa is not guaranteed until it is in your hand.
July 17, 2019 at 18:19
Thanks Brit
July 18, 2019 at 17:10
Finally our status changed to issued today after one and a half months of AP. Thanks a lot Brit for the blog. I have been reading the comments on this blog on a daily basis for the past one year, and if I were to be quized, then I know I can seriously pass that exam. I must donate. For those on AP, keep the faith, its not easy waiting.
July 18, 2019 at 18:33
Waiting is hard, I know. But congrats!