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 questions to try and keep the page focused on interview experiences
Please at least mention your embassy (city and country, like Accra, Ghana) 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. People could use the search function to look for their embassy.
October 25, 2024 at 11:02
Interview Date: 23rd October, 2024
Embassy: Paris
Case Number: 2025EU500
Visa Status: Approved!
Hey everyone!
First off, a huge thanks to Simon – without his support, this wouldn’t have been possible! He was always there to answer my questions, no matter how silly they were. So, cheers to Simon!
Let’s dive into it.
I submitted my DS260 on July 2nd, unlocked it on the 7th, and resubmitted on the 8th. On August 23rd, I received an update from the KCC that my interview was scheduled for October 23rd.
On the Day of the Interview
Our appointment was at 9:15 a.m., but we got there at 9 a.m. First, we went through a security check where they reviewed our passports, police certificates, DS confirmations and. Then came a second security check where we left our phones (no laptops allowed, so heads-up).
After that, we went to the first window to pay the fee ($990 for the three of us) and then joined the line to submit our documents. The staff member was super nice and allowed us to speak in either French or English (I chose French). They requested:
•Photos
•Passports
•Birth certificates for myself, my daughter, and my husband – originals and translations since our documents are in Georgian
•Marriage certificate
•My highest degree diploma (a bachelor’s in humanitarian sciences)
•Police clearance from both Georgia and France (didn’t translate the French one, and it was fine)
This staff member was really kind and professional, took our fingerprints, and asked us to wait. Within about 10 minutes, the consular officer (CO) called us.
The Interview
After raising our right hands for the oath, the questions began:
CO: “So, you were selected for the DV program.” (Very serious and direct)
Me: (Smiling) “Yes!”
They asked about my education, and I mentioned my high school diploma and bachelor’s degree. They requested only the high school diploma, then asked my husband about his education but walked off before he could even finish his sentence.
Then came the questions about our plans and support in the U.S.:
CO: “Where are you going, and who will support you in the U.S.?”
Me: “We’re heading to New Jersey. I’m a marketing specialist, and my biggest client has an office in the US. They’ve offered me a permanent job if I relocate.”
I showed my employment letter and qualifications, and she asked about our host.
CO: “What does he do?”
Me: “He works at __ Company.”
CO: “What’s his legal status and salary?”
Me: “I don’t know his exact salary; he’s there on a work visa.”
CO: “So, he’s not a citizen. How will he support you? Do you have his tax returns?”
At this point, I realized she was asking about a sponsor. I apologized, clarified, and provided the I-134 form and tax returns from my sponsor. (Here she rolled her eyes a bit) She read through it, asked a few questions, and then concluded that all the documents were fine.
CO: “Everything seems good; I’ll keep the form. Your visas are approved.”
She handed us a paper with instructions on receiving our passports back. (A heads-up: they’ve changed the appointment scheduling system, so I have to register and pay for delivery again.)
A Little Hiccup
We thought we were all done and headed to Disneyland to celebrate with my daughter. But two hours later, the embassy called! Apparently, the CO forgot to take my fingerprints for my daughter’s visa application, so we had to rush back. Luckily, they took the fingerprints quickly and confirmed that everything was good to go.
Be prepared for anything! I was 99% sure the I-134 form wouldn’t be necessary, but I brought it as a backup, and sure enough, it was requested. The CO was serious and direct, with no smiles, but we were trying to stay positive.
Best of luck to everyone – stay prepared, stay positive, and have backup documents just in case!
October 25, 2024 at 11:29
Anna i have a question
about education i have a diploma and work experience for three years now am a driver for 10 years how to interview ,is that difficult
October 25, 2024 at 12:17
Your education must be at the same level as an American child graduating High School which is when they can then enter a university.
Experience as a driver does not meet the work experience requirement, so it is important to be sure your education does meet the requirement.
October 25, 2024 at 12:15
Anna, thanks for the detailed experience and congratulations. As you know I normally recommend getting an I-134 just in case, but given your circumstances I would have guessed it would not have been needed in your case too. So yeah – she was having a bad day for some reason and decided to flex her power. Sheesh.
Anyway – best of luck for the move!!!
October 25, 2024 at 13:45
Thanks a lot, Simon!
October 11, 2024 at 12:28
I would like to start by thanking Simon and his forum, without which I don’t know how I would have found all the necessary information. I’m also grateful for providing details and for being available to answer all my questions.
Here, I would like to share my interview experience, as I know how much reading others’ experiences meant to me.
Embassy: Belgrade
DV2025
This was my first time applying for the lottery, and in May, I found out that I was a lucky winner. After completing the DS form, I needed to gather more information about the next steps. My case number was 2k, which is relatively low, so I expected to be called for an interview in the early days of October.
As soon as I found out my interview date, I immediately called to schedule my medical exam for the day before, as the clinic had informed me that everything would be completed the same day. With the required documentation ready, I only needed one more vaccination, and I was set. I received my sealed envelope, which I was told not to open, and to hand over at the embassy. I was also advised to scan my new vaccination record and bring it with me when entering the USA.
Interview Day
I arrived 20 minutes before my scheduled time and was admitted right away. I was prepared for security, without a phone or any other electronic devices, so I passed through in just 30 seconds. Everyone was very polite, and I was directed to another building to the counter.
I received a ticket number at the counter, where they explained the procedure, and I sat down to wait for my turn. After about two minutes, I was called to submit my documents, meaning the originals and copies (diploma, birth certificate, police report, medical exam, and passport). They spoke to me in my native language and asked a few general questions:
Is this your first time applying for the lottery?
How old are you?
The latest date you can enter the USA is… (6 months from the medical exam)
I also left my fingerprints with both hands. As far as I can remember, that was it. The staff member was pleasant and smiling, and the conversation was relaxed.
After that, I paid the visa fee and then waited for the final interview.
I was called to the counter.
“Hi, would you prefer I speak to you in your language or in English?”
Me: “English is fine.”
“Please read this oath and leave your fingerprints…”
…
The questions that followed were:
Is this your first time applying for the lottery?
Are you married?
Do you have children?
Have you ever been to the USA?
Do you know anyone there?
What do you plan to do there?
What do you currently do?
What is the highest degree you have obtained?
What field is that degree in?
Have you ever worked in your field (since I am currently working for a company outside my field)?
…
“This is an easy case, congratulations, your visa has been approved, and you can pick it up in 7-10 days via DHL.”
When I stepped outside, I realized I had only spent 20 minutes inside. The whole process is very organized and fast, so there is no need to worry. Everything is simple, stay calm, and just be yourself.
I had to share this with you, dear friends, and I hope it helps someone. I’m now waiting to see what my passport with the visa looks like!
Good luck to everyone, stay patient and stress-free!
October 11, 2024 at 17:56
Awesome. Nice and easy!!! Congratulations and best of luck!!
October 10, 2024 at 11:48
Interview Experience
Case Number: 2024AF8k
Married
DV Entry (Both) : November 5, 2022
DS260 1st Submission: May 16, 2023
Unlocked and resubmitted: July 28, 2023
2NL Received: July 23rd, 2024
Unlocked and updated with Child (newborn)
Medicals: August 13th, 2024
Interview Date: September 10, 2024
Document 1 (Principal):
2NL ✅
DS260 confirmation page✅
Passport✅
Passport Pictures x2✅
Birth Certificate ✅
Marriage Certificate ✅
Counseling Certificate ✅
Family Album✅
Educational Certificates (WASSCE, 1st & 2nd Degree Certificate and Transcript)✅
Police Clearance Certificate ✅
Onet Printout of job description ✅
Current Payslip✅
Account Statement (Official)✅
Document 2 (Spouse)
2NL*✅
DS260 confirmation page✅
Passport✅
Passport Pictures x2✅
Birth Certificate✅
Marriage Certificate✅
Counselling Certificate ✅
Gazette & Affidavit ✅
Police Clearance Certificate ✅
Document 3 (New Born)
Birth Certificate ✅
Passport ✅
Post natal booklet ✅
Baptismal Certificate ✅
*DAY OF INTERVIEW*
Arrived at 6am 6am
Got in at 7am
Processes
– Made payment $330 x 3
– Checked documents – took originals and copies
– Took biometrics
– Waited to be called for interview at 8:50am
Interview Session
– Took the oath (Myself & Spouse)
– Principal Applicant
1. What is your highest level of education
2. What do you do for a living
3. Where will you stay in the U.S.
4. What do you plan to do in the U.S.
– Derivative (Spouse)
1. What is your date of birth
2. Where did you first meet your husband
3. Tell me a little about your wedding ceremony
4. I see a different name on your birth certificate. Did you change your name after marriage?
5. Show me the affidavit.
CO: Your visa will be approved while we complete background checks on your wife.
Register on the website for passport pickup/delivery.
Returned my original documents.
Congratulations!
Session ended by 9:10am
Status on 10th – Administrative Processing
Status on 13th – Issued
Later got an email to pickup passport at the embassy after 3 weeks.
Thank you Simon, for your continuous support.
October 10, 2024 at 12:26
8k and you recieved an interview almost a year after DS 260 submission?? Are you from Ghana? It’s so heartbreaking 💔, you almost lost that chance
October 22, 2024 at 19:57
Yes, almost lost my chance.
October 10, 2024 at 17:30
Which embassy/consulate you were interviewed. Have you received your passport in October though you were issued on September? Congratulations you and wife 🎊
October 11, 2024 at 00:05
Nice – which embassy was that?
October 22, 2024 at 19:55
Accra Embassy
September 26, 2024 at 18:08
*INTERVIEW EXPERIENCE*
Embassy: Yaoundé Cameroon
I am a nigerian married to Cameroonian and also the winner
Cross country Chargablity case.
Case No: 59k
Interview Date: 27th of July, 2024
I got to the embassy at about 7:00am
I went through the security processs and was then ushered into the interview premises at about 7:30am*
Filled a form to make the visa fee payment
I was called to counter 2 to present my documents
1. Passport
2. birth certificate and copy
3. ds 260 confirmation page
4. school certificate (weac and degree) and copies
5. marriage certificate and copy
6. Appointment letter and copy
7. 4 American passport pics for my spouse, myself and children
8. Police report for the both of us .
After a some minutes, I was called to counter 5
*Interview Begins*
*Cons*: Hello, good morning.
*Me*: Hi, good morning sir while I was smiling ☺️ He made me swear an oath that whatever i say is nothing but the truth
Took my right fingerprint
*Cons*: why did you come to Cameroon for your interview since you both live in nigeria
*Me*: I answered
*Cons*: why is your married certificate new
*Me*: I answered
*Cons*: your children birthday certificate is new too. Oh you just got them why?
*Me* : I answered
He stood up and went inside with all my doucement and came back after 10 min he says am putting your case under 221g provide the following:
Proof of marriage
Proof of education
DNA between mother and children.
I was disappointed when i came out but i never loose hope.
On 28 of July i ordered the dna kit from USA. Lapcorp companies and on 3rd of August the kit got to the embassy.
I immediately email the embassy: that my kit is at the embassy they should book us for dna samples collection. I waited for the whole day but they didn’t reply me. I send them email like 5times before they book us for appointment on 22nd of August at 1pm.
On 22nd of August i and my children went to the embassy at 12:30 pm.
I went through the security processs and was then ushered into the premises at about 1: 15 pm.
We gave them data page of our international passport and passport 5*5 pic each.
We paid 25,000f for each person.
They called our names for collection of dna around 2pm.
I also sumitted other documents they requested this sameday, along with all our international passport.
On the 27 of August, the lab received our sample and email the results back to the embassy and myself on 3 of September.
On 5th of September my case was updated from refuse to ready. I also got an email from the embassy that: i should come to the embassy with my husband for taking oath on 11th of September. * note, the officer didn’t take my husband finger print and oath on our interview day reason i don’t know.
On 11th of September, i and my husband went to the embassy by 1pm. Show the email sent to us to the security me and we were allowed to enter the premises.
We were called to window 5:
Cons: He made us swear an oath that whatever we say is nothing but the truth
Took my right fingerprint and my spouse left fingerprints.
He press his computer for sometime and he said, congratulations i have issued your visa. The dhl will give you your passport in 1 or 2 weeks time. On 14 of September we received our email from dhl for passport pick up.
Thank you to simon God bless you for your guidance and support 💪.
September 26, 2024 at 23:32
Congratulations!
September 25, 2024 at 01:42
Hi britsimon my visa was issued on Friday in johannesburg I haven’t received any notification to collect
September 25, 2024 at 10:09
Patience.
September 17, 2024 at 14:28
Case number: 2024EU397**
Region: Europe
Country: Sweden
Embassy : STK
Applicants: Principal (no derivatives)
DV Theme Song: Life is a rollercoaster
October, 2022
Entered the DV lottery for 5th or 6th time because “it cannot hurt”.
May, 2023
Checked the results. Seriously questioned my eyesight when reading “…you have been randomly selected for further processing in the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program,..”
Totally naïve about the process, submitted the DS-260 a couple weeks later.
July-September, 2023
Started checking the visa bulletins for DV2023 and DV2024 and (still naively) concluded my case number probably did not stand a good chance of becoming current.
December, 2023
Found my way to Simon’s blog and YouTube channel and started educating myself.
January, 2024
Concluded (again), now more informed thanks to Simon’s terrific EU prediction video, that my case number really didn’t have a good chance. Moped for a couple of days and then went about life as usual.
February, 2024 (and ongoing)
Fell victim to the addictive powers of Simon’s updates and kept tuning in for some live sessions.
June, 2024
EU <30k went current in the visa bulletin for August interviews, basically confirming what I already “knew”, no way that my 39.7k would be current in the last visa bulletin for DV2024.
***PLOT TWIST, COURTESY OF KCC, WILL NOW FOLLOW***
July, 2024
My heart skipped way too many beats when EU <50k was made current for September interviews. After a moment of euphoria came a healthy reality check when Simon explained the new issues created.
August 2nd , 2024
The first batch of September interviews had been sent out. No 2NL in sight. Surely this was the end?
August 7th , 2024
Against all odds, in the second batch of 2NLs, as the very last EU case number with the Stockholm embassy – I received the 2NL(!!)
Interview scheduled for September 19th. Politely nudged the embassy for an earlier date and got moved up to September 16th.
August 8th – beginning of September, 2024
Gathered all required documents
-Passport: current + expired with valid B1/B2 visa
-2 passport photographs
-Qualifying Education: Swedish equivalent to High School diploma, MSc + MBA diplomas and transcripts. Had the first two translated from Swedish to English. Made sure to get and bring the originals and copies along with the original certified translations. My MBA was already in English.
-Birth Certificate: Sweden doesn’t issue one in the same way the US does, but the reciprocity page make it super clear what you need to request.
-Police Certificate: Same, consult the reciprocity page for document details.
-Court and Prison Records: (N/A)
-Proof of Funds: I got bank statements from four accounts (mix of cash savings, stocks, bonds). Had them translated.
-Waybill
Had the medical (conveniently it could be carried out in Copenhagen, where I work).
Between the embassy's instruction email, the reciprocity page, and the DV program website, it's super clear what steps you need to go through and what (documentation) requirements you need to fulfill.
September 16, 2024
Interview day! Interview scheduled for 9 am.
Arrived at the embassy around 8:30 am, there were only three IV cases (separate line from NIV cases) so minimal waiting time in line and a fast and efficient security screening process.
Once in the building where the interview would take place, was asked to take a seat.
Waited maybe 30 minutes
Was called to a window, asked to present my documents and to pay the $330 fee. A bit surprisingly, they only asked for my highest education (not the high school equivalent). Presented my MSc and MBA. Apart from that, they asked for all documents stated above.
Was asked to sit down and wait to be called for the interview.
Waited maybe another 30 minutes.
Was called to another window and greeted by the CO (in training) and accompanying CO.
Took the oath.
Had my fingerprints taken. The CO commented “those are some excellent fingerprints”. I said “I’m glad to hear my fingers passed the test, I’ll do my best to follow”. We all had a bit och a chuckle and that broke the ice.
The interview was straightforward and conducted in a very professional yet friendly manner. The senior CO guided the CO in training what to pick up on, and I was then mostly asked to tell / explain about the specifics. For example, I have an MBA from Boston University but not a corresponding visit record in the US. I explained it was an online program, they nodded and were thereby satisfied. I also had an H1B visa denied in the past. I elaborated on the circumstances, which were employer-related, which closed that topic.
The CO concluded the interview by saying he’d recommend approval. In the spirit of my DV2024 rollercoaster, he also added he couldn’t guarantee anything since we’re nearing the end of the year. Fortunately, that cliffhanger turned out to be brief.
September 16 (afternoon) 2024
CEAC status changed from ready to administrative processing.
September 17, 2024
STATUS. UPDATED. TO. ISSUED.
Concluding remarks:
It’s been an absolute rollercoaster. I decided early to not take anything for granted, not make any plans, but to keep living life as usual and then consider it a bonus (albeit a massive one) if – in the end – the green card materialized. That kept me sane through all the twists and turns over the last 1 ½ years.
I can’t stress enough the importance of educating yourself about the process. If you’re reading this, you’ve already found Simon’s blog and have access to all the information you need. Do your homework. Prepare mentally. I feel like I won a lottery within the lottery 2-3 times. I hope your process is less bouncy. However, in the end, it’s the outcome that matters. Be patient. Good luck!
And Simon, thank you, for everything!
September 17, 2024 at 18:27
“PLOT TWIST”
Love it – thanks for the fun and detailed account. Very useful. Glad it worked out for you!
September 16, 2024 at 11:15
First and foremost, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Simon. Thanks to all of Simon’s videos and advice, my wife and I have finally obtained our visas for DV2024.
Nationality: Burma
Case No.: 2024AS16***
Interview Location: Bangkok, Thailand.
We got our 2nl on July 25th and , Our initial interview appointment was scheduled for September 4th, but the Embassy called us to reschedule it to August 16th.
Simon told us that even though our appointment was rescheduled to August, we would not receive our visas until September. (And that is very true.)
Documents we provided:
For Principal Applicant
*** Medical Certificate***
1. Passport
2. Additional form (only for Burmese applicants)
3. DS260 confirmation
4. Passport photocopy
5. 2 photos
6. Birth Certificate (both notarized English version and original native language)
7. Marriage Certificate (notarized English version and original native language)
8. Police Certificates (1st from Thailand, 2nd from Myanmar)
9. Degree certificate
For Follower
*** Medical Certificate***
1. Passport
2. Additional form (only for Burmese applicants)
3. DS260 confirmation
4. Passport photocopy
5. 2 photos
6. Birth Certificate (both notarized English version and original native language)
7. Marriage Certificate
8. Police Certificates (1st from Thailand, 2nd from Myanmar)
INTERVIEW
Questions for Principal Applicant (My Wife)
1. What is your highest education, and when did you graduate?
Ans: My highest education is a Bachelor’s Degree, and I graduated in 2017.
2. What are your future plans for work in the US?
Ans: First, I would like to work in any suitable job. Then, I plan to pursue higher education at a US university.
3. Where will you stay in the USA?
Ans: ***** City , **** state .
4. Who will you stay with?
Ans: I will stay with my aunt and uncle family.
5. Where and when did you get married?
Ans: We got married in 2022 in Bangkok, Thailand.
6. How long have you been staying in Thailand? Are you working here?
Ans: Yes, I’m working in Thailand, and we’ve been staying here for around 3 years.
7. Have you stayed in any other country for more than 1 year?
Ans: No.
Questions for Follower (Me)
1. What is your job? What subject are you studying in Thailand?
Ans: I am currently a master’s student, so I am not working right now. Previously, I worked as a dentist.
2. When and how did you two meet ?
Ans: We met through friends 10 years ago.
3.Have you stayed in any other country for more than 1 year?
Ans: No.
Congratulations! Your visas have been approved in the system. You will receive your passports within 10 days. Have a safe trip!
The whole interview process only took about 3-4 minutes. The consular officer did not ask for marriage photos or any extra documents.
Even though they said 10 days, our status has been “ready” since August 16th.
Finally, it changed to “administrative processing” on September 9th.
Visas were finally issued on September 10th.
We both received our passports back on September 11th.
Additional notes* : Consular don’t ask for wedding photos or relationship photos and any other extra documents.
September 16, 2024 at 11:37
Thank you for the detail account! Congratulations!
September 14, 2024 at 14:46
Case number: 2024SA32XX
Embassy: PTS Embassy
Applicant: 1 Applicant
Submitted DS260: 06-May-23
The Medical and Document Review: 21-Aug-24
Medical cost: 180 USD and included the following:
-X-ray
-VDRL
-Physical Exam
-Medical History
-I had already had all the required immunizations
Document review at the embassy (same day as medical)
The clerk verified the following documents:
-Birth certificate with a copy
-Divorce certificate with a copy
-Passport and existing B1/B2 and F1 visas
-Police certificates ( I had police certificates from three countries and was told by the clerk that I did not require the one from Tbilisi, Georgia where I had lived for 6 years since I left in 2015. The embassy later emailed me stating I did indeed need it).
-1 photo
-DS260 confirmation page
-2NL
-I could not locate my high school certificates so I used my work experience to qualify. I am a physician and have experience both teaching as a clinical instructor and practicing medicine. I also completed all three parts of the US medical licensing examinations. I provided a letter from my previous employer and my ECFMG certificate.
– I was told that I did not need any financial documents because it was not a requirement.
I was advised to only bring the reviewed documents.
I collected my medical two days before my interview.
The Interview: 12-Sept-23
Arrived at 7:00 am
Waited till my name called, one person was ahead of me.
Paid the 330 USD fee with a credit card.
Interviewed by 8:45 am
Confirmed fingerprints for right hand only.
Took an oath.
The CO looked through all the documents while asking the questions.
CO- Did you get the police certificate from…, is it Romania?
PO- It’s Georgia, yes I did get it (he seemed very pleased)
CO- So you’re divorced?
PO-Yes
CO- And you have a daughter? But oh she’s a US citizen.
PA- Yes
CO- And where is she?
PA- With me
CO- What did you study in Georgia?
PA-Medicine
CO-Do you speak Georgian?
PA-I barely remember the language, I was instructed in English.
CO- You studied at Howard University from 2018 to 2021?
PA-No, I started in 2021 ( I began a PhD in pharmaceutical sciences which I regret so I’m glad I didn’t get questioned much on this)
CO- What do you plan to do in the US?
PA-Practice medicine
CO-What type?
PA-Psychiatry
The CO kept saying you’re good throughout the interview, he seemed pretty chill. There was a lot of silence while he reviewed my file on the computer.
CO- Your visa is approved. He said he’d cancel my prior visas and I would receive a call to pick up my passport from the post office in 10 business days.
I checked my CEAC status after 9 am and I was already in AP, I then checked after 10 am and it was issued. I was surprised it took such a short time.
***************************
The interview was very short and the questions asked seemed to just verify what I wrote in my DV application and my qualifications. The CO didn’t really look at any document beyond those required, he asked “What is this” if it was unfamiliar and immediately returned it to me.
I am so happy the wait is over and I’m grateful for all of your assistance Simon. God is good.
September 14, 2024 at 17:37
Congratulations!!
September 12, 2024 at 04:31
Case number: 2024EU309XX
Region: Europe
Country: Serbia
Embassy : BEG
Applicants: Principal (me) – I already had F-1 VISA for 2 years.
July 2024 – After constantly looking at the VISA Bulletin I almost gave up because of how high my CN is and renewed my F-1 Visa.
August 8, 2024 – Flew back to the U.S.
As soon as I landed I received email for my VISA Interview. I was literally on the JFK airport when I saw it.
Interview was scheduled for September 12.
On September 8 I came back to Serbia.
September 11 – completed medical exam.
September 12 – Arrived at the embassy for the interview that was scheduled for 9am. I got there about 30 minutes early. Whole process was very easy and quick for me since I was already on my active F-1 VISA. They asked me only 1 or 2 questions regarding my college and that was it. Got approved and now waiting for my passport. Flying back to the U.S. on September 19 to finish 2 more years of college.
Thank you for all the information Brit, I’m sure you’ve helped so many people with your blog. Wish you all the best and I wish best of luck for all the DV applicants in the future!
September 12, 2024 at 18:44
Best of luck!!!
September 11, 2024 at 15:46
2024EU32XXX – Budapest Embassy
Couple (Hungarian nationality, first marriage, no children)
September 11, 2024
We had a scheduled interview at the Budapest Embassy and arrived 30 minutes early to allow sufficient time for security procedures.
The process began at the administrative window, where we submitted the required documents. Communication took place in our native language, Hungarian (at this stage). The primary applicant, referred to as the “winner,” first provided the necessary documents along with copies, followed by the spouse (me), who submitted similar documentation, with the exception that no information regarding the spouse’s education was required. Interestingly, the primary applicant was only asked to provide her high school diploma, despite holding a PhD. This initial step took approximately 10 minutes. The administrative officer asked us to verify our address but did not require further clarifications.
Following the document submission, we proceeded to the cashier to pay the necessary fees, which took only about two minutes.
Finally, we met with the consular officer. – had to proceed to another window. She began by asking the primary applicant to introduce herself and share what she felt was important about her background and future plans, particularly in relation to her career and intentions upon moving to the United States. The next questions focused on our marriage, confirming that it was the first marriage for both of us. She then inquired about our intended destination in the U.S., how we were connected to the mentioned host we would be staying with, and whether we had any relatives in the U.S.
The consular officer concluded the interview by congratulating us and informing us when we could return to collect the visa.
The entire process, from entering the building to completing the interview, took about one hour. Although the administrative officer was somewhat curt and appeared disinterested, the consular officer was exceptionally friendly and professional, creating a positive atmosphere throughout the interview.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Simon for his unwavering support and assistance throughout this process—it has been greatly appreciated.
Best of luck to everyone – don’t worry, it’s really easy if you have everything ready and prepared
September 11, 2024 at 16:25
Thank you for detailing your experience, and best of luck in the USA!
September 6, 2024 at 02:34
CN 2024OC20xx
Embassy Auckland
My interview was scheduled for Friday the 6th of September at 9:45 am
About 3 weeks prior to the interview I brought in all my documents as per the embassy directions. To the interview I was also told to bring my passport, invitation letter and a courier bag.
I arrived at the embassy at 8am when they opened, I was the first person to arrive for the day and the security guard told me I was early and I could wait or come back in about an hour. I decided to wait in the queue, I knew there was a possibility they wouldn’t allow me to interview so early from my allocated time but I didn’t mind taking that risk. At about 8:30 they opened the embassy up for interview and everyone was fine with me interviewing earlier.
The guard put all my belongings through the xray and put them in a locker and gave me the documents I would need. I then went into the embassy up to the counter he pointed me to. The man at this counter was lovely and asked for my passport that I was applying with, he brought up my case and all the documents I had sent in, the only thing he asked about was the police vetting, I told him I had applied for that about a month ago and got a confirmation from the NZ police to say they had emailed it through, he managed to find it and printed it out for my file. I had realised at this point I had left my wallet in my bag that the guard took from me so I told the man at the counter and he gave me my slip to give to the cashier and told me to just grab my wallet then go straight to the cashier, super easy. The woman at the cashier counter was also lovely, I gave her my slip and card and she made the payment and told me to wait for my name to be called in the next queue.
The interview itself was so easy, it started with an oath that I would be telling the truth throughout the interview. He then began to ask really simple questions, why did I want to move to the US, where I was going to move and what I wanted to do there. He said everything seemed to be in order and it should all be good to go, he tried for a while with the system and said it was struggling but that they should be able to approve it in the next few hours, he also warned me about my expiry date which would be in February and there wouldn’t be a possibility to reissue it. He then tried again to do something with his system but he said it was still down and that was all and I could go.
I checked my ceac status and it still said ready, after about 3 hours it changed to administrative processing and at around 6pm it had changed to issued!
Super easy process, most of the stress was collecting the documents and doing the medical before hand, seems like the interview is just a formality if you have all you documents in order you should be good to go!
September 6, 2024 at 13:46
Congratulations, and thanks for taking the time to inform others about your interview!!
September 4, 2024 at 11:41
Case number: 2024EU309XX
Region: Europe
Country: Serbia
Embassy : BEG
Applicants: Principal (husband) and derivative (wife).
I won lottery for the first time from 10th playing it, since 2014 after I visited USA for the first time on J1 visa and got familiar with this programme that I didn’t knew before and I liked USA (Fairbanks, Alaska) experience
28-Oct-2022
Principal applicant entered the lottery as singl.
6-May-2023
DV2024 results came out.
11-Aug-23
Checked results and couldn’t beleive what I saw.
A month before my father passed away on my hands at home after short but painfull and stressfull battle to save him from pancreas cancer which was too late to help..
My girlfriend on that time was pissed since she never saw herself outside of our country (especially USA) and she was sad once I told her, and we were both sad more for my father’s loss in the first place and I decided to leave it for 3,4 months as nothing happened since I knew that my case number was a bit high and needed time to think what to do with it because it was my biggest desire for more than decade but it came in worst possible moment in my life..
Nov/Dec-23
We agreed that we should try it and and tried to be as most romantic as could and proposed her couple of days before year ended.
26-Jan-24
I entered DS260 as single person first. Brit Simon was someone that I watched, read and tried to understand all varieties of options and decided to fill it and then after wedding and document change add my wife as derivative.
16-Mar-24
We got married in small wedding with closest friends and family.
23-May-24
After my wife changed last name into mine and all documents I then added her as derivative in process and we filled her DS260 together.
31-May-24
I contacted Belgrade embassy in order to unlock my DS260 so that I can update my marriage status from SINGLE in January into MARRIED.
09-Jul-24
September Visa bulletin, last one for fiscal year 2024 was published and our number finally became current (tbh we started losing hope during process and we will never come at time but it is normal if your number is over half of people selected in that region).
24-Jul-24
We received an email from that update on our case was made and once I entered credentials on that website I saw that date was first working day in September, 3rd.
22-Aug-24
The Medical exam in IOM center.
Medicals included the following:
X ray.
Blood work.
Doctor check up.
We both never had any problems with health, nothing was found, we are healthy from their side, they even told us that once I arrived to pickup sealed envelope and asked do we need to be worried, first for our own health and second for interview.
Advised to take missing vaccines at the health centre, me only since my vaccination card was lost physically and they couldn’t found it, and neither electronically (Serbian bureaucracy is disaster sometimes)
I only need to receive tetanus vaccine, my wife nothing, since she was fully vaccinated previously.
Paid 440 USD total for both principal and derivative, and 20 USD more for tetanus shot.
Document review at the medical (same day as medical)
The clerk verified the following documents:
-DS260 confirmation page
-Passports
-Vaccine records
-4 photos each
-2NL
03-Sep-24
Interview day
First security check where they took my smart watch, car keys and all electronic equipment.
Then we received number in hall and clerk on Serbian explained us fully detailed whole process and steps.
First part was at counter with Serbian CO on Serbian language
Document review at the embassy
The clerk verified the following documents:
-Birth certificate with copy
-Marriage certificate with copy
-Passports of both of us and existing b1/b2 visa that I only had
-Police certificates (I needed from 2 countries since I studied abroad and my wife only Serbian)
-2 photos each
-Education certificates with copies – to be precise my faculty diplomas, all 3 of them (in case you have finished any level of college/faculty they are only interested in that, not in high school/elementary school, at least that was my experience) – they didn’t asked for my wife education documentation (even thought we had it with us just in case)
Questions asked to principal:
How many times I played DV lottery before?
Do you have any kids?
Did we had previous marriages?
Did this pressure us to get married? (where I explained whole life situation that clerk fully understood, she was really polite.)
Where are we going in USA?
Finger prints were taken by both of us.
Overall experience at that step was really nice.
Next steps was paying visa fee, I brought 600 USD for both precisely but I note of 100 USD couldn’t check money machine that is checking it and Serbian clerk gave me money back, since you need to pay fully in one way, either in USD or in local currency, in this case RSD on with card that I made in the end (my advise if case you don’t have card with you bring extra cash in USD, clerk noticed that that bill was good but machine was beeping and he couldn’t accept it for that, so think of that in case you don’t have card with enough money with you, I had it luckily.
Final step, interview with CO that is American
Needed to read an oath, eighter on language of my nation or on English, which we both did.
Our fingerprints were taken again, this time only 4 fingers on left hand.
Questions from CO on English, we decided to have interview on that languages since we are both fluent:
How many time have I played DV lottery and was surprised with persistency 🙂
How long where we together?
When we got married?
Do you have any kids?
Did we had previous marriages?
Have we ever lived in any other country?
What is my education background and my faculty diplomas?
When did you graduate from university?
What is our profession, from both of us?
Have we ever visited US?
Have we ever had problems with law anywhere?
Have I ever had any problems with Sevis (entering USA)?
Where are we going in USA?
How is that persons that we entered (our friend and best man on wedding)?
CO typed something for minute or two without saying a word and then she said something like: I didn’t found any problems/obstacles, your visas are approved, you can expect a notification where to collect passports in DHL in a week, no more than that, that persistance works and congradulated me since she was surprised that I played it for 10 times in a row and never decided to quit, and she wished us a great life in USA and also to enjoy on huge wedding (that we have 5 days after interview).
All original documents were given back along with DS260 confirmation page, as I noticed they only took our passports with my old one that had B1/B2 visa that was active in, since you cannot have 2 active visas in the same time (glad that I found it, I am not sure what could go wrong in case I forgot that passport.)
We had extra bureacreacy documents with us, all of them were in eighter Serbian or English, but overall documents that I mentioned above and that you can find in process and that Brit Simon is talking almost all the time that are mandatory are those ones, but if you have more bring it, they can only help/
We are expecting now message where to collect passports and after our wedding we will create fully detailed plan of where to go, what to do and how to use this once in a life time opportunity, we still don’t have passports with visa and green card in our pockets but with interview experience and knowlegde that I received here on this website and youtube channel I am feeling quite secure, and decied to share it now, once it is fully fresh, whole process ’till this process and that we can focus on big wedding ceremony that in happening in next couple of day and next big life project in our lives.
Our plan is to go in January/February in USA, and until then to do the best possible financial, organisational and mental preparation for cultural shock and adaptation that inevitable and normal in this situation.
***************************
Overall, the interview was very relaxed. The CO was very chill. The questions were all very simple. The trick was to remain calm as we really were, we were even joking and laughing during interviews. We did not need any additional supporting documents like bank statements etc.
What helped me/us alot was going through Brit Sinon website and youtube channel and all the other interview experiences posted here. We were able to get a good idea about what kind of questions would have been asked. Also reading through the instructions on the website helped a lot with the requirements for the medical, document review and to register with the courier service.
Huge thanks to Mr Simon once again, hope to meet him in person and have a drink, lunch someday in person to thank him for all help that he is making for all of us, new immigrants.
Life is not easy, you loose in some battles, in some you win but overall life is happening now and make as best as you know, without regret, carefully but be ready to risk in situations that are worth of it, follow your instinct together with brain, at least that is something that is my life moto.
September 4, 2024 at 11:58
Thank you for this awesome, detailed account of everything. Much appreciated! As you well know, these interview experience accounts are priceless to prepare someone for their own interview.
Best of luck for the move – let me know when you are around my area for lunch!!
September 4, 2024 at 12:03
Sure thing, my plan to visit Northern California in future, once I am nearby will contact you definetely! I wish you and your dearest ones all the best in life also!
September 5, 2024 at 08:29
Da li si rezultate sa medical exam-a dobio isti dan? Svaka cast, meni je intervju zakazan 12og u BG embassy
September 5, 2024 at 09:46
English please.
September 11, 2024 at 14:51
I have received medical exam results day later (Friday) at IoM, but picked up on Monday, so they cannot assure 100% you fully that results will be done on that day.
Hope that you finished that process already and that you have envelope with medical exam, good luck Veljko on interview tomorrow!
July 19, 2024 at 10:03
Interview experience
NRB KENYA
CASE NO 2024 5891X
INTERVIEW DATE:11TH JULY 2024
FAMILY OF 3.
we received our 2NL 14th May 2024 1600HRS.the following day went to do medical Appointment and KCSE VERIFICATION.We did our medicals on 29th May,all went well the physician told us can see your x rays are good you will wait for the kid’s results after 48,if we can detect any problems we will make a call 📞,by God’s grace we never received any call from IOM meaning our kid’s medical was 100%fine.
We left our place on Monday 8th July to Nairobi because we feared on Tuesday kutakuwa na Maandamano so we did not want to be caught unware by these protests.On 10th we went at the US EMBASSY to find out if there’s any changes in our Interview Appointment but the guards at the main gate told us all is well if we have never received any call or email from the Embassy.
Come on 11TH the D day we had to wake up 4:20am we dressed 👗 our best clothes for the big day.By 4:50am we had to take a word of prayer 🙏 remember those words God you’re the one who started hii safari by us being selected,our medicals went fine now God see we’re coming to the end of it never allow us to face obstacles in the interview.By 5:10 our UBER drive called us we opened the gate off to the Embassy.
First security check done ✔ 🙌 second Security check done ✔ 👏.So we reached to a tent like structure where kenyan lady requested for our 2NL we gave she gave us token number told us have a sit and wait for your token to called our.we waited like 2hrs our token was called to counter 9.Here we met a kenyan lady mambo?poa sana give me your original documents ONLY,give me your passport size photos we gave out.she told me to go counter 10 and pay the interview fee of USD 990.paid it the Cashier told me to get out and wait our token again to be called out again.we waited for 45 minutes our token was called to counter 7
INTERVIEW NOW:
CO:HOW YOU GUYS?
US:FINE THANK YOU
CO:PRINCIPAL APPLICANT
WHO ARE YOU WITH TODAT?
PA:AM HERE WITH MY DEPENDANTS.
CO:CAN SEE YOU GOT YOUR MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE LAST YEAR?
US:YEEEEES
CO:WERE YOU MARRIED CUSTOMARILY?
US:YEEES
CO;WHAT DO YOU DO FOR LIVING?
PA:BUSINESS LADY
CO:WHICH BUSINESS?
PA:WE IMPORT SPARE PARTS OF MOTOR VEHICLES.
CO:HAS ANYONE OF YOU TRAVELLED OUTSIDE KENYA?
US :NO/YES
CO:WHICH COUNTRY?
ME:QATAR
CO:HOW MANY YEARS IN QATAR
ME :80 YRS 😄
CO:YOU PRINCIPAL APPLICANT AND THE KID YOUR VISAS WILL BE READY IN 2WEEKS.YOU MR WE NEED TO DO BACK GROUND CHECKS.HAVE YOUR GREEN PAPER AND CONGRATULATIONS 🎊
We left the Embassy by 11am happy BUT worried 😟 about BACK GROUND CHECKS but good thing she gave us green paper nothing else.
CEAC DATE UPDATES:
11TH July my case was ready while that of the principal applicant and kid their cases were AP
15TH July My case was ready that of principal applicant and the kid their cases were AP
16TH July 11am my case was ready that of principal and kid applicant went ISSUED
16TH July 4pm my case from ready to Refuse
17TH July Refuse
18TH up 5pm my case went AP
19TH JULY 9am ISSUED
19TH July 11am received an email notification that my visa documents have been sent to DHL.
My friends it has not been easy since 11TH July for us.
For back ground checks i had all documents required police clearance certificates from Kenya and Qatar so was confident that all will be good.
July 20, 2024 at 11:54
Thanks!
June 20, 2024 at 18:44
Case number: 2024SA**
Region: South America and the Caribbean
Country: Trinidad and Tobago
Embassy : PTS
Applicants: Principal (husband) and derivative (wife).
24-Oct-2022
Principal applicant entered the lottery with wife as his derivative.
6-May-2023
DV2024 results came out.
11-May-23
Submitted DS260 for principal and spouse.
11-Aug-23
2nl recieved. Interview date given as 24th October 2023.
10-Oct-23
The Medical and Document review.
Medicals included the following:
X ray.
Blood work.
Doctor check up.
Went through previous hospitalizations.
Advised to take missing vaccines at the health centre
Paid $TT2000 (295USD) total for both principal and derivative.
Document review at the embassy (same day as medical)
The clerk verified the following documents:
-Birth certificate with copy
-Marriage certificate with copy
-Passports and existing b1/b2 visa
-Police certificates
-1 photo each
-DS260 confirmation page
-Courier registration confirmation
-2NL
-Education certificates with copies for both principal and spouse.
Questions asked to principal:
What was the longest visit to the US?
What is your current address?
What is your contact number?
Questions to spouse:
Have you ever lived in any other country?
Have you ever visited the US?
All original documents were given back along with DS260 confirmation page, Courier registration confirmation and 2NL.
Our fingerprints were taken.
Then they changed the date of our interview from 24th Oct to 31st Oct because of the type of visa application.
She advised not to walk with any additional supporting documents to the interview, but we still walked with a job offer letter, bank statements, pictures etc.
17-Oct-23
We got our missing vaccines:
Influenza
Hep b
Tdap
Varicella
Updated immunization cards were emailed to the doctor’s office.
19-Oct-23
Completed Medicals were collected from the doctor’s office.
23-Oct-23
We received an email along with a phone call from the embassy with the updated date for interview.
31-Oct-23
The Interview
Reached 7.30am
Waited till our names were called.
Paid the fee with credit card 330USD each.
Interviewed by 9:30am
Confirmed fingerprints for right hand only.
Took an oat.
The CO looked through all the documents while asking the questions. All questions were asked to principal applicant (PA) only.
CO-Do you have any kids?
PA- No
CO-Were either one of you married before?
PO-No
CO-What is your highest education?
PA-Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering.
CO-Commented that we were both well educated (we both have CXC and CAPE certificates and Engineering degrees)
CO-When did you graduate from university?
PA-2016
CO-How old were you when you graduated?
PA-23
CO- Plans after arriving?
PA-My current employer offered me a position at their US office. So after arriving, I plan on starting to work and my wife will begin to look for a job as well.
CO-What state?
PA-Florida
CO- Ok your visas are approved. DHL (the courier service) will call in the next 7-10 days to pick up the passports.
He then stamped “canceled without prejudice ” on existing B1/B2 visa. He then gave us back all our original documents and kept the passports.
10-Nov-23
Both passports with visas collected.
18-Jan-24
Paid USCIS green card fees $220USD each.
10-Mar-24
Travel to Florida
20-Mar-24
Received SSN.
8-Jun-24
Received greedcards.
***************************
Overall, the interview was very relaxed. The CO was very chill. The questions were all very simple. The trick was to remain calm and not let the nerves get the better of us. We did not need any additional supporting documents like bank statements etc.
What helped us alot was going through Britsimons website and all the other interview experiences posted here. We were able to get a good idea about what kind of questions would have been asked. Also reading through the instructions on the website for the US Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago helped alot with the requirements for the medical, document review and to register with the courier service.
June 21, 2024 at 09:02
Congratulations, and thank you for describing your steps in such detail. That is helpful.
Best of luck!
June 16, 2024 at 07:01
My interview experience @ the Nairobi embassy (KENYA), DV 2024, single applicant, took about 2 mins
Case No: 2024AF48***
Interview Location: Nairobi
Interview Date: 6th June 2024
Appointment time: 0600hrs
I received my 2nl on April 11, 2024, I immediately sent my KCSE certificate to KNEC for verification using their qmis website (Make sure you verify your KCSE certificate before the interview to avoid being put on AP). I also sent an email to IOM to schedule my medical appointment on 30th May 2024 (Exactly one week before my interview).
I gathered all the documents as listed below:
1. Birth certificate
2. School documents (High school certificate & university degree)
3. Certificate of good conduct (Police Certificate)
4. Affidavit of support (I-134) and host tax return documents
5. Two 2’’ X 2’’ passport size photos
I arrived around 5.40am on my interview day and found a queue already established for both immigrants and non-immigrants. We then passed through a series of security checks; one at the main entrance where you are patted down, another one at the footpath same as the first one, and the last one where you surrender your phone. I was then given a sheet on how to arrange my documents and handed a token number. I was then called to pay for my interview and then a few minutes later, I was called to counter 7 for my actual interview.
I was asked to raise my right hand and swear.
Co: Good morning
Re: Good morning
Co: What is your name?
Answered
Co: Who do you live with? ( I was shocked by this question because I am a single applicant and I don’t live with anyone currently)
Re: I live alone.
Co: Are you married?
Re: No
Co: Do you have children?
Re: No
Co: What’s your highest level of education?
Re: University degree
Co: Where did you take your degree?
Answered
Co: Are you currently working?
Re: Yes
Co: Where do you work?
Answered
Co: Have you ever lived outside your country? ( I had travelled outside the country for 5.5 months and was worried that I might be asked for PCC considering that’s close to 6 months)
Re: No, but I travelled to Canada last year
Co: Did you stay there more than six months?
Re: No
Co: have you ever had a problem with the law?
Answered
Co: have you ever applied for a US visa?
Re: No
Co: Have you ever been to the US?
Re: No
Co: What is the name of your host?
Answered
Co: Who is he to you?
Re: Family friend
Co: Which state are you going to?
Answered
Co: have you read the policy about FGM, and prostitution.
Re: Yes
( The FGM and prostitution document had been handed over to us by the lady who gave us the sheet on how to arrange our documents and I had just perused over it)
Co: your Visa has been approved, congratulations, ( at this point I wasn’t listening anymore, I was just staring at her as she reached for the green paper
Co: Don’t leave your job and don’t make life changing decisions such as selling your things. DHL will contact you on how to get your passports.
I thanked her for her time and left the counter. The other applicants were as baffled by the short interview as I was.
Ceac Update
6th June 2024: Administrative processing
7th June 2024: Issued
7th June 2024: Notification to collect Passport.
I am forever grateful for Simon and everybody who took their time to share their experience on this platform. I couldn’t have gotten the right information to prepare for my interview without everything that I gained here. All the best in your forthcoming interviews.
June 16, 2024 at 10:02
Congratulations and thank you for the interview experience!
June 7, 2024 at 16:29
MY INTERVIEW EXPERIENCE.
Case no: 2024AF409**
Interview location: Nairobi.
Interview date: 5th June 2024.
Appointment time: 7:30AM
The most important thing is the Ds260, you must fill it as truthfully as possible. Give as much details as is required. Address history, social media Accounts, employment history, phone numbers held in the last 5 years. This prevents you from receiving supplimentary questions Ds 5535. This will set you back for no reason the information required for the supplimentary question are almost all in the Ds260. I can’t emphasis this point enough.
I received my 2NL on 11 April 2024, immediately i scheduled my medical in order to avoid last minute delays. I highly recommend doing the medical as soon as possible because it give you peace of mind knowing well in advance that the medical has the all clear. This gives you more time to prepare. I did my medical on 22 April 2024.
I then started working on my documents i made a checklist of my documents based on relevance to the DV process.
1.Birth Certificate.
2. Educational qualifications ( confirming it meets the required high school equivalency)
3. Work related documents( Contract of employment, recent Payslips, letter from employer) you must confirm if the work you do qualifies in accordance to Onetonline.com.
4. Police clearence documents.
5. Financial documents i.e Personal Bank statements, I134.
These are the fundamental documents required if they are in order your sucess is guranteed. The rest is about having a concrete plan once you are given the visa. The consular office will ask questions about your plan what you intend to do in the U.S once approved.
I arrived at the embassy at 6AM. The queue was long. Multiple checkpoints. Plus the work on a first come first served basis. Kindly be aware of that. Once i entered the main building i was asked about my appointment letter and given a token number. I waited in line for about 3 hours the embassy was very buzy. Once they reached the token number before me i started being extremely alert. Funny part they skipped my number and continued to call out higher number. I immediately informed the embassy staff they enquired and found out an error was made. They immediately called my number.
I was called to a counter to submit my documents. They guide you on the required documents. Make sure you insist on handing over additional documents that put you in a good light. Because thoes documents are the first contact point with the consular officer. Based on thoes documents a pre screening decision is in the mind of the CO.
I went back and was called back 1 hour later for the main interview.
The weird thing was the Consular Office was training someone on how to conduct interviews. Whatever he was asking and whatever responses i was giving was being explained to the trainee. My interview was longer than standard.
CO: Take the Oath.
CO: Tell me your full names.
ME:I responded with my full names.
CO: I noticed you did O levels, how many subjects were you suppose to do.
ME: There isn’t a set limit iam aware of.
CO: Do you have any other qualifications
ME: Yes i have both a Diploma in Accounting and business as well as an advance diploma on the same field. I am currently doing my final exams for My Bsc.
CO: *Cancels whatever he prewrote on my O levels certificate and types on his computer* He had doubts avout my qualifications and my detailed response reassured him.
CO: Have you ever applied for a US visa before.
ME: Never.
CO: Have you ever lived in any other country.
ME: No.
CO: Have you ever been married.
ME: NO
CO: Do you have any children.
ME: No.
CO: How do you know your Host.
ME: He is a close Family Friend.
CO: Do you have any other Nationality.
ME: No
CO: Have you ever committed any criminal offenses.
ME: No.
CO: Have you ever done any Dna Testing.
ME: Never.
CO: Sorry i was doing a lot of other activities during this interview.
ME: I am not in any inconvenience.
CO: Thank you for your patience, the good news is your Visa is Approved. *while smiling*.
ME: Thank you.
CO: Your visa will be available in a week’s time, but don’t make any travel arrangements before you receive your stamped passport back. Also good luck on your final exams.
Hands me the Green Approval letter.
Ceac Update
5th June 2024: Administrative processing
6th June 2024: Issued
7th June 2024: Notification to collect Passport.
I have made the post too long but i use to read all the interview experinces and it helped me out alot. Thanks to Britsimon without his guidance and resources this might not have been possible. I salute you sir. Thank you forever indebted.
June 7, 2024 at 16:31
Thanks for that detail – I think it could really help someone.
Congratulations, and best of luck for the move!
May 19, 2024 at 21:03
My Interview Experience
First of all, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your exceptional guidance throughout my DV Lottery journey. Your clear and detailed advice was crucial in helping me navigate the complex visa process, and I am thrilled to share that my visa has been approved. Your support made a significant difference, and I can’t thank you enough for your dedication and expertise.
Embassy: Bombay
Case: 2024AF45xxx
Date of Interview: 06 May 2024, 07:30 AM
Security Screening:
After reaching the embassy, I had to wait for more than half an hour to clear the security screening and enter the embassy. All electronic gadgets are not allowed inside.
Document Verification:
After waiting for around 15 minutes, we were called to a window for document verification. The CO was friendly and collected the originals and photocopies of documents such as the passport, photos, birth certificate, police clearance certificates, and educational certificates. Some questions were asked, such as whether I had lived in any other places for more than six months, to confirm if any other PCCs were required. Fingerprints were taken, and the process took around 10 minutes to complete.
NB: I went with all my documents, but these were the only ones requested.
Payment:
I was given a slip for the payment from the document verification window and had to wait to pay the cashier. I encountered an issue as I only had $400 in cash, but the payment was $330. The cashier didn’t have change, and I didn’t have enough Rupees with me. I had also left my debit card at the hotel. I was given a gate pass valid for one hour to withdraw cash. I returned to the embassy within 45 minutes, made the payment in cash, and was asked to wait for my interview.
Interview:
After waiting for about 30-45 minutes, which gave me more time to compose myself, I was called for the interview at another window.
– Me: I greeted the CO with a broad smile.
– CO: She returned my greeting and introduced herself. She was very nice. She then requested me to take an oath.
– Me: I did.
– CO: Have you ever traveled to the US?
– Me: No.
– CO: What is your highest education?
– Me: I have completed my A levels, and I am currently in my final semester pursuing a Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering, expected to graduate in two months.
– CO: How many years did it take you to complete your A-Levels?
– Me: 12 years.
– CO: What year did you complete your A-Levels?
– Me:20xx
– CO: What were you doing after completing your A-Levels?
– Me: (Due to some personal reasons, I tried my best to explain it.)
– CO: What are you planning to do in the US?
– Me: I plan to work in the tech industry, specifically cybersecurity.
– CO: Do you have family in the US?
– Me: Yes, I have my uncle in Indiana, who’s willing to be my sponsor. So, I’m planning to stay with him and the family during the initial days, which will give me a stable base to start from as I transition to living in the U.S. and look for my own place.
– CO: What does your sponsor do?
– Me: He is a financial counselor for a hospital.
– CO: How did your sponsor travel to the US?
– Me: I told her I was really young when he traveled, so I don’t know how he went there, and I couldn’t ask him that question beforehand. She smiled and kept typing. (I chose to be honest exactly as Brit advised.)
– CO: She keeps typing, and at this moment, she was looking at my police certificate. The one I obtained from India was okay, but the one from my country had a poor design and looked a little sketchy, so she had to consult someone for verification.
– CO: She came back and asked how much I got it for.
– Me: I told her I don’t know the actual cost as my mum handled the process for me back home.
– CO: She just kept typing and then told me everything looks alright. She then said, “Now I have to approve your visa. Congratulations, you’ll receive an SMS or email on how to receive your passport in seven working days.”
– Me: Thank you so much.
Points to Note:
1. Prepare for the interview: From documentation to reviewing all interview experiences here. The great news is you don’t need another resource, BritSimon covers everything you need to be successful.
2. Practice your answers: Write down the interview questions, as most of them are repetitive. Keep practicing your answers so when you reach the interview, you won’t stutter or appear untrustworthy.
3. Bring cash: Either the exact $330 or the equivalent amount in your local currency.
4. Bring all relevant documents needed for the interview.
5. Be honest: As BritSimon always emphasizes.
CEAC Status:
– 06/05/24: Administrative Processing
– 07/05/24: Issued
– 08/05/24: Passport and documents delivered
Thank you once again, BritSimon, for your invaluable support and guidance. Your advice truly made this journey possible.
May 20, 2024 at 06:57
Love the detail you included here – much appreciated!
Congratulations and best of luck for the move!
April 16, 2024 at 05:49
Case number: 2024AF41k
Embassy: Antananarivo (ANT), MADAGASCAR
2NL: February 14th
Interview date: April 16th
Hi everyone!
This one if for future winners who decide to pick ANT as their interview location.
I say this because with me today, there were three Somalis as well. I think they don’t have a US embassy in Somalia. Madagascar has like 25 DV selectees a year, so you WILL get an interview here in ANT, once you become current.
About my fellow DV2024 selectees from Somalia though, it didn’t go well, here’s why.
The wife had to have a translator for confidential questions even her husband can’t translate for her (she doesn’t speak english). So they post-poned the entire thing until they can bring someone other than her husband to interpret.
The third guy had some sort of educational discrepancy and will have to undergo additional checks (221g). He was struggling to answer the CO’s questions.
As for me, barely 5 minutes of questions.
“Where did you go to high school?”
“What subjects did you take?”
“What do you do now?” (i’m a pilot) “Okay, what do you currently fly?” “What type of aircraft is that?”
“How long was your previous stay in the US?” (i did my flight training in Florida)
“You asked for an extension when COVID hit, right?” (yeah, i kinda had to)
“You didn’t get denied, did you?” (i actually i did, but i think the CO was trying to see if I’d be honest about it and ofc i was. No reason to lie, he has everything on his computer. I also knew an I-551 denial while ALREADY out of the country was standard, no big deal. And airports were closed, it’s not like i could teleport back to Madagascar)
[these were NOT my actual answers. I’m just explaining what went through my head]
“Okay everything seems to be in order. Congratulations. Pick up your stuff tomorrow at 3.”
My two cents after seeing the others go before me (i was second to last):
-> I’d say work on your English before the interview so communication is smooth between you and the CO. Just eases the process.
And don’t lie. You have to swear an oath before the interview.
My guess is, if they catch you lying under oath, you’re immediately done.
How would they know? just don’t try it man…
——————
I’m leaving soon Brit. Once i become a bigshot pretty boi pilot, I’ll come to California. Thanks a lot! 🫡
April 16, 2024 at 10:33
Nicely done! Congratulations. We need more pilots!!!
February 13, 2024 at 00:07
Tashkent Uzbekistan
Case number 38** 22 July send DS-260
Interview appointment get 14 December.
Scheduled on 12 February at 9 o’clock
I come to Embassy of USA at 8:45 after waited one a half hour, at 10:20 am the security let us in to embassy. After coming in to embassy the first you should pay 330$ visa fees then they give your number from this number they call you to check in your documents when they check your papers, they might ask some questions like what is your degree? Where have you been before? I mean which country etc. They successful get my papers and I go to wait when the consul calls to interview. I wait approximately 20 min then consul call my number come to 8 window, my interview was in English there the questions:
-Why you so long have you been in China?
– I said I was study there
-When you guys married?
– 2023
-What’s your degree?
-University no degree
-Why didn’t you graduate your university?
– I said because of Covid-19
-Which place you meet your wife?
– I said at the restaurant
-Do you have some evidence photos or something?
– I said of course here Sir
After he go somewhere for 5 minutes, I waited him then he come and say everything seems good I can approve your visa. Congrats good luck in USA.
I said I apricate it and go out from USA embassy. Thats all Mr. Brit, Thank you for your hard work for your videos May GOD bless you I hope we will meet in USA!
GOOD LUCK GUYS! NEVER GIVE UP
February 13, 2024 at 09:40
Congratulations!!
November 27, 2023 at 17:39
Moved here by BritSimon from ask questions page by “Dee”
Greetings Brit Simon
DV2023 winner. I have greatly benefited from your teachings and blogs throughout our dv journey. God bless you.
We safely arrived and settled in Arizona beginning of this month – myself, my 21 year old daughter and my 14 year old son.
HERE IS HOW OUR JOURNEY WENT:
We are originally from Zimbabwe but had settled in South Africa for about 15 years. We Received 2NLs in Nov 2022 and Interviews were scheduled for mid May this year in Johannesburg and medicals a week before. However I rescheduled the medicals due to lack of funds. Medicals were done exactly a week after interviews.
During interviews some of the questions asked were:
-How are you all related
-Who is your host and what is your relationship
-Why are you choosing to move to the US
-What will you do in the US, i.e plans for work, studying etc
They requested all school transcripts, all listed documents etc. and verified and we were informed that since we hadn’t yet done the medicals we should probably expect our visas after 6 weeks or so. We left with the biggest smiles on our faces and prayed all would go well with medicals.
Medicals went well and we waited for our visas. However towards end of July when we were expecting our visas I received a call to go back in for a sputum test because of my tb history and results from the X-rays. I did so immediately and was disappointed there was a 6-8 weeks wait. It was a long and painful wait😓🙇♀️ and a lot of my people began to doubt that the visas would even come out.
Fast forward, a few hours before the public announcement in Sept of the early conclusion of the dv2023 program our statuses changed to issued🥳🤗. Can’t explain the joy, the relief, the excitement..
Had to wait a couple of weeks before the email notification to collect the visas. Collected visas next day, and left South Africa for the States about a month later.
Initially was supposed to go to Texas but my host backed out last minute so ended up finding another host in Arizona and changed host address at port of entry in Seattle.
This has been our journey thus far. It was truly a tough and trying journey for us esp having to wait longer than most. In the end we thank God for connecting us with amazing people along this humbling journey and to those starting the process all the best and don’t give up!
November 1, 2023 at 02:59
I am DV selectee of 2024 my case is current
I lost my passport used for Ds-260 Is how risky it is having a new passport for the interview
November 1, 2023 at 09:16
No problem.
September 16, 2023 at 03:59
Bula Britsimon.
Thanks you so much for your videos and blogs. I gained knowledge of DV &how to read visa bulletin,etc. Many thanks.
DV2023 Winner
Case no.2023OC2020
Suva, Fiji embassy
.
*We completed DS260 in Nov 2022. *Got 2NL on 21st July 2023 for 5th Sep 2023 interview but Interview rescheduled for 7th Aug 2023 @8:30am -which we are very grateful for.
*applied police clearance on 24th July
*medical examination on 25th July for the 3 of us
*7th Aug Interview was like 5min.
Interview day Summary:
*arrived at 7:45am at Suva embassy at first gate
*Security checks x 3 times then enter interview room
*waited for a while before my husband was called to the counter..hand in our sealed medical envelope, original passport,passport photos., original education transcripts, birth certificates then copies of them. Thry gave back the original docs. We had Form I134 but they did not ask.
* paid our embassy fees
* waited for a while then our name called for interview
*did biometric for my husband and I &oath interview ?:
* Did you get married before you married each other
*How many children you have
*Did you have any other children outside marriage
*have you ever been in prison
*what kind of work you do . ? to my husband.
*said my husband police clearance not yet received. We confirmed we did it the same day . They have received mine only.
*what kind of work you plan to do in USA to.my husband
*mentioned sm of my husband line of work in USA
*Consular officer Concludes we will contact you 1st week of Sep to pick up your passport. Then Gives us a yellow form with Refused 221g stating await my husband police clearance. We got home by 10:30
* We got email to.pick up our passport and visa packet on 6th Sep 2023
*plane ticket ready for us to leave for LA by this December
September 16, 2023 at 11:42
Congratulations and best of luck in the USA!
May 13, 2024 at 16:59
Bula Sera, we all know that the education requirement is completion of high school but which exam pass do they require, FSLC or FSFE?
Vinaka
August 31, 2023 at 12:11
Hi Simon,
There are not enough words to express my gratitude to you for the service you are providing for us. We applied in 2021 for the DV lottery for the first time, and since then we followed all the instructions in your YouTube videos, blogs, live sessions and Q&A sessions. With that, me and my husband were able to get our US visas today. Thanks a lot Brit.
I went to the interview from ’employment path’. Me & my husband gathered all, (I mean “ALL”) needed documents and got ready for the interview. I remembered that you mentioned in your videos/ blogs that, people who go from the ’employment path’ need to provide genuine evidence to get through this interview. So I made sure that I covered every aspect. (Appointment letter, promotion letters, salary increments, service letters, professional certificates, Employment Providence Fund History Reports, Onet document highlighted with all my relevant responsibilities etc…). This was an immense help for us to pass the interview.
We entered the embassy premises @ 1pm (our scheduled time) and we were taken for the interview around 2.50pm. We had the interview for about 5 minutes.
💫💫💫💫 Interview Questions 💫💫💫💫
CO – What’s your highest educational qualification?
Me – Bachelor’s degree in IT
CO – Without having the ALs, how did you manage to enter for this degree program?
Me – Before entering the degree program, we were asked to cover a foundation level examination as an equivalent qualification for ALs.
CO – What was the duration of it ?
Me – 1 year
CO – Okay.. What’s the degree duration?
Me – 3 years
CO – When did you complete your degree?
Me – 2015
CO – Could you please give a small summary on your employment history?
Me – <>
CO – What’s the last designation you held?
Me – Senior Quality Assurance Engineer
CO – Can you explain to me your responsibilities as a Senior Quality Assurance Engineer?
Me – <>
CO – Can you give me some examples on what you are doing?
Me – <>
CO (looking at my husband) – What are you doing at the moment?
Him – I’m a Software Developer
CO – Great.. Who is your sponsor? And how do you know him?
Me – <>
CO – Okay.. Where are you both planning to live after going to the US?
Me – Since my sponsor lives in California, we both thought of going there first, so we can get his help during our first few days in the US. After that, based on the jobs we get, we will move to the relevant areas.
CO – Great.. So how long have you two been married?
Me – For 4 years
CO – And when & how did your’ll meet each other?
Me – We both worked under the same employer in 2016. That’s where we met.
CO – All seems good. Congratulations. You’ll get a call within a few days to come and collect the passports.
Me – Thank you very much sir.
💫💫💫💫Things we noted during our stay till the interviewer called us💫💫💫💫
* 3-4 people (who went from ’employment path’) got rejected. They all had in-depth interviews and took more time than people who went through the education path. They (including me) all were asked career based questions.
* Please take extra cash in hand. A couple of our notes got returned due to a bad watermark issue. In a case like that, better to have extra cash in hand.
* Me & husband stayed in Malaysia for the last 9 months and before that, we stayed in Sri Lanka. Though the US Embassy’s reciprocity page mentioned that we need to get a police clearance certificate(PCC) from Malaysia ONLY if we stayed there for more than 1 year, during our document submission they said that we need to present a PCC if we ever stayed in another country for more than 6 months. Fortunately we had both our PCCs with us (Sri Lanka & Malaysia).
💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫
Received 2NL – 22nd June 2023
Medical Test – 9th July 2023 (in Sri Lanka)
Interview – 15th August 2023
Interview Location – Sri Lanka-US Embassy
Call to collect the passports – 22nd August 2023
August 31, 2023 at 16:19
Thanks for the detail description!
Congratulations and best of luck for the move!
August 5, 2023 at 10:05
I’m writing this to document my DV23 experience.
Case No: AF46k
Embassy: Doha, Qatar 🇶🇦
My interview was 3 weeks ago and I was put on 221g because of wrong foreign state of chargeability (FSC).
Long story short, I was born in Qatar, however I chose to put my Country of chargeability as Somalia which is my nationality and my parents country of birth.
Normally your FSC will be your country of birth, wife’s country of birth and parents* (if your parents weren’t a resident at the time of your birth)
During my interview, the first question I was asked was
CO: Arabic or English?
I replied: English is fine.
CO: When did you graduate high school?
I replied
Shortly afterwards, the CO was quick to point out that I put the wrong FSC, I even noted a small sticky note on my file labeled “wrong FSC”
However, I came prepared, not only were my documents complete and up-to-date, I was also armed with a copy of the DV23 instructions and FAQ page, my parents passports from the time that I was born.
I proceeded to clarify that I charged to my parents country of birth, citing that Qatar has no path to residency or naturalisation, deeming every visit temporary in nature along with the fact that you have to renew your work permit every year.
The CO took a pen and underlined the relevant points in the DV23 FAQ page I gave him and stood up and said “let me check with my supervisor”
He came back and said some nonsense about “that rule that you cited is when for example if your father wins the lottery and lists you as a derivative”
I replied: “that’s not what it says on the rules”
The CO was extremely courteous though, saying that he’d let it slide if the countries were in the same region however it’s hard because of regions and quotas and that he’ll do his due diligence and that he’ll check in with Washington and let me know.
I asked the CO: “so I’m going to be on 221g?”
He replied: “yes, and you know 221g?”
I replied: “yes, I’m hip”
The whole interaction lasted around 15-20 mins, which is significantly longer than a normal DV interview.
Shortly afterwards I received an email from the embassy requesting some additional info about my parents which I answered.
Ultimately, my case was cleared and was told to send in the passport. All in all, I spent days a total of 8 days in 221g, after that status changed to ready (1 day) and the AP (4 days), and finally issued.
My passport wasn’t stamped however because it’s not recognized by the U.S DOS.
22 CFR 42.2 states that:
“The alien’s passport was issued by a government with which the United States does not have formal diplomatic relations, unless the Department has specifically authorized the placing of the visa in such passport”
I was issued a DS232, which is basically a paper with the visa on it along with the immigrant packet.
I know that my case is a unique one, I hope that it will be useful to anyone that.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions, I will do my best to answer them.
August 5, 2023 at 12:25
That’s awesome. It’s nice to have such a case well documented. Thanks!
July 28, 2023 at 17:20
Yaounde, Cameroon
Scheduled time: 7:30 AM
After making sure I had every item on the interview checklist, I placed them all in one bag and went to bed. I was so anxious I could not sleep all night. Ended up getting a bit of sleep at about 4AM and missed my alarm which was set for 5:30AM. I woke up at 6:10AM, showered quickly and got a cab to the embassy. I would have forgotten some stuff if I didn’t put them together the night before.
I arrived the embassy at 6:45AM and met a queue of about 20 people which eventually increased.
By 7AM the security checks began. They checked out bags outside, took and registered all our electronic devices and then gave us numbered folders for our documents. For this step, carrying as little as possible to the embassy will safe you some time.
We were then ushered to sit at the lobby and some staff came to help us sort our interview documents as required by each individual’s case. From there we were asked to pay the 330usd fee (215,000FCFA). This was followed by biometric scan (finger prints) and presentation of documents. With the documents verified, we all sat in the waiting room and the CO called up individuals for interview in a ranked manner.
My interview proper was pretty straight forward. I think I enjoyed my conversation with the CO
CO : Good morning! Bonjour!
Me: good morning sir.
The CO then asked me to take the oath and I did accordingly. Holding my A -level certificate, he smiled at me and said “this is impressive, we don’t see this very often. You must love academics. (for context I did extremely well at the A-level)
Me: thank you sir, I try my best
CO: What do you intend to do in the US?
Me: I’ll like to further my medical education by training to become a specialist
CO: Oh, you are a physician?
Me: Yes, sir
CO: are you married?
Me: No sir
CO: But do you have a fiancé?
Me: Yes
CO: Do you intend to marry before leaving?
Me: Yes, we have a wedding project
CO: What does she do? Is she a doctor too?
Me: No she’s a journalist
CO: *smiling* Isn’t that dangerous here?
Me: *laughing* well she tries her best to keep safe
He consulted his colleague then and asked me to provide her name stating it will help them easily process her case when I petition for her later.
CO: Do you have relatives in the US?
Me: Yes (gave him a few details)
CO: Will you like to maintain your address or change?
Me: I’ll prefer NC
CO: Yeah, they have some excellent medical schools there. I think that’s a better choice.
After checking if everything was okay
CO: Congratulations, and welcome to the USA.
Me: Thank you sir
CO: *with a broad smile on his face* I think this time around by selecting you, the US won the lottery and not the other way round. You will receive a mail once your visa and immigration package arrives DHL Yaounde for pickup. Usually takes about 1-2 weeks but closer to 1 week.
Me: Alright, thank you very much.
CO: Do have a nice day
Me: Thank you, have a nice day as well
In all, the whole process took about 2 hours 30mins from security check to leaving the embassy. Would have been even shorter if I arrived earlier. I think those interviewing here on same day receive the same time on the 2nl and on the day of their cases are processed in order of arrival. My case was AP for one day then issued. Visa was ready for pickup exactly 48hours after my interview.
Thank you Mr Simon, been watching your brilliant videos all year round on YouTube.
July 29, 2023 at 11:29
That’s an excellent account of the interview. And such a kind comment about you being the lottery prize!
Now, about your fiancee. I wish you had married before the interview. It will take years to bring her outside of the DV program.
July 16, 2023 at 01:39
DV2023 winner
Case number: 2023AS74XX
Hello,
I am from Mongolia and am hereby sharing my interview experience in US Embassy Ulaanbaatar. I found out about my selection late (in January 2023) and submitted my DS-260 on Jan 31st, 2023. Received 2NL on Mar 7th, 2023.
The medical examination:
Went through the medical tests a week before the interview. Our children had to take blood tests for tuberculosis diagnosis. But the test result of our elder son it turned out to be weak positive and thus he needs to take sputum test for verification that nearly took 2 months. Even without his medical report/envelope we were directed to go through interview anyway.
We received an email from the US Embassy on March 13th notifying that we have two separate appointments (first one: Document submission and second: Visa interview) and provided us with an instruction along with checklist for preparation for document submission.
The document submission schedule: Apr 3rd /Monday at 1:30.
Upon entering the Embassy, my wife and I waited for about 20 mins and were called at the counter after a given ticket number. A lady (translator) reviewed all of the documents we provided and gave back some of my wife’s documents such as her educational and training certificates because she is not the principal applicant. Then she wanted to clarify about the reference of real estate that we provided. She asked why it was gifted to me and I explained. She asked us to bring the Gift Deed of the real estate at the visa interview and took our biometrics.
The interview schedule: April 5th at 1:45pm.
This time, we had to bring our children (3 and 6 years old) as per the instruction. There were 3 other families sitting and waiting together in the waiting room who claim that they are also DV2023 winners and wished us luck for the interview. After 5 minutes, we were called into another counter and the interview starts:
CO: Congratulations on winning the Diversity Visa (DV) program!
Me: Thank you
CO: Looking at our kids, and replies “they must be getting bigger, how old are they?”
Me: Smaller one is 3, taller one is 6 years old.
Then CO took our fingerprints and biometrics.
CO: Can you please raise up your right hand and take an oath.
We: Did it accordingly.
CO: Ok, when did you marry each other?
My wife: in 2019
Me: But we have been together for 7-8 years.
CO: Have you ever been married before?
We: No
CO: Do you have any other children?
We: No
CO: Have you ever been in other countries for more than 6 months?
ME: I have been in the USA for almost 3 years, in Russia for 4-5 years and in China a few months to take HSK course.
CO: Is Chinese difficult language to learn? (smiling)
Me: Speaking Chinese is actually easier than our Mongolian but writing and memorizing Chinese characters is quite a challenging experience.
CO asks my wife if she also studied in China.
My wife: Yes. I received my master’s degree in Shanghai.
CO: Then your Chinese must be pretty good. (Smiled)
My wife: Yes, mine is much better than his (laughed, teasingly looking at me)
CO: Where do you want to go in the USA?
Me: Chicago probably.
CO: All right, everything looks good. But since the medical report of your elder son is missing, I am going to have to put you on 221(g) and approve your visas once we receive it. Any questions?
Me: Only one question: “What if something comes up in his sputum test result and turns out to be positive?
CO: Oh, that’s a hypothetical question, let’s not predict anything at the moment (smiled). But the most important thing is your child’s health and he needs to be treated if that happens.
WE: Okay, thank you!
Then CO gave us back all the documents except for our passports and photos. Bye, waiving hands at our kids as well.
The sputum test result came out on its 58th day, and doctor informed us that he is fine. We were so happy hearing that and submitted his medical report at the Embassy right away that day.
June 2nd: Medical report submitted
June 14th: Status changed from Refused to Ready
June 23rd: Status changed from Ready to Issued
June 23rd: Received a call from the Embassy to pick up our passports with visas
I must admit that the overall experience from the beginning until the visas get issued was a quite a bit stressful but it was mostly just a worry that made us anxious.
I am truly grateful to Simon and all the other applicants for sharing their experiences and advices.
July 17, 2023 at 19:30
Thank you for that detailed interview experience!! It might be the first I have for that embassy!
June 28, 2023 at 07:38
Dear Simon,
Here’s to thank you for your selfless help and support answering our questions from filling the DS-260 until going for the interview. We are forever grateful for the information you share with and for DV lottery winners.
Our details are as follows:
Case Number: 2023AS6###
Number of Applicants: 2
Chargeability Country: Sri Lanka
Interview Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
DS-260 Submitted in May 2022 (initially and then unlocked)
DS-260 Re-submitted in July 2022
2NL received in April 2023
Renewed passport (primary applicant) after receiving the 2NL
Medical Examination completed in May 2023
Interview in June 2023
Status: Issued
Interview Experience:
Our interview was scheduled for 07.45am. However, we arrived at the embassy an hour before. We were politely asked to stay seated in the queue outside by the security officers. At 07.30am, two embassy staff came out and asked to make a queue for non-immigrant visas. Then it was our turn (Immigrant Visas). One staff checked our passports and asked us to proceed to the security check. At the security check we were asked to leave our mobile phones and we were allowed to carry in only our document folders.
Once we entered the embassy, we were given tokens (two separate types for immigrants and non-immigrant visas) and were asked us to stay seated. After sometime, we were called to a counter to submit our documents. The staff in the counter collected our originals and copies separately and asked us to pay the visa fee to a separate counter and bring the receipt back to her. Once it was done we were asked to stay seated again.
After a few minutes, we were called to a separate counter to give our biometrics (fingerprints).
After about 10 minutes, we were called to another counter by the CO for the interview and it went like this…
1. CO took me and my husband’s fingerprints
2. Took the oath
3. The CO, very politely asked us a few questions such as,
– Our full names
– Where we are from
– How long we have been living in UAE
– Our professions
– Countries we have lived in (while checking our police certificates)
– If we are married (while going through our marriage certificate)
– If we have children
4. Checked my (primary applicant) educational documents (A/L, Bachelors and Postgraduate Diploma)
5. The CO returned all our originals back.
6. Lastly, the CO said, “Your visas are approved and you will receive the passports in a week or so”
We thanked the CO, double-checked if we have all our original documents back with us and came home with happy hearts.
After 48 hours, we received a notification message from Emirates Post (local courier company) letting us know that our passports are ready for collection.
Thank you again Simon for your support throughout this experience. Best Wishes!
June 28, 2023 at 08:01
Awesome! Congratulations.
June 7, 2024 at 13:35
Thank you so much
July 7, 2023 at 04:51
Hi H,
Kindly let me know if you need a sponsor to apply from Abu Dhabi.
I am also winner Sri Lankan citizen applying from Abudhabi.
June 24, 2023 at 11:28
DV2023 EU9k – Skopje / Interview in early April / Freshly married couple
ASKED DOCS:
– x2 fee of 330$
– Both passports
– My high-school diploma (Principal selectee, male)
– Both birth certificates
– Both police certificates
– Both court certificates
– Original marriage certificate & a copy of marriage certificate
– Both medical exams
– x1 color photo of both
– DS-260 confirmation page of her
– Photo album
// What we haven’t
– Certificates of each passed year of high school
– Any supporting documents from our friend from US
—
THE INTERVIEW:
Where did you went in high school?
– Told the name of the school and the city.
How was your experience in high school?
– It was good. (than asked what was the course of study) I wanted to go IT, but ended up on some mechanical but it was interesting to learn different skills.
Did you had a lot of friends in high school?
– Yes, that’s usual here.
Were most of you continuing school together?
– Yes, with at least 10 of my friends we were even from kindergarden together until high-school.
Have you lived at any time out of your country for longer period?
– Both: No
Is the guy you’ve named in US your friend?
– Yes, he is my friend from my hometown.
You will stay with him at first, right?
– Yes, probably until we got our SSN there.
The addres is this right… (and started saying it)
– Yes. (I continuied saying it so he getsots impression that i know it)
So, you know where you’re going?
– Yes, in ‘that’ city area is he living, the weather is good, there are a lot of opportunities so we would like to start there.
You’re working in a company now, right?
– Yes.
You have never been accused for something right?
– Both: No.
Have any of you had any previous marriages and divorces?
– Both: No.
How did you met each other?
– I saw her on our mutual’s friend wedding, but got in touch a bit later because i was struggling to find her on social media (he he), common way to start with someone nowaday.
What was the thing from her that attracted you at first?
– (hmm) Her smile at first, but then when we started communicating of course you get to know each other better and that’s how we started dating. (Actually her tits attracted my view at first, but…)
When did you got married?
– Told the exact date and year.
We will approve your visa!
– Thank you very much.
June 24, 2023 at 11:47
Thanks and congratulations!
November 10, 2023 at 02:50
The funniest interview ever! am sure you got an “A” for confidence.
May 28, 2023 at 20:23
Our interview experience in China Guangzhou 🇨🇳
dv2023 winner
Case number 9k
My wife was the main applicant
We submitted ds260 on 10th October, 2022
2NL received 15th February
Did our Medical 27th of March 2023.
The interview date April 10th at 7:50am
We arrived at the embassy at 6:30am
The gates were opened at 7:30am
We provided our appointment letter and passport to start the entry check list and went through a security check.
After entry, we went into the building where we waited in queues for them to check our appointment documents and later we were given a ticket number for the next counter.
We waited for about 20 minutes and our ticket number was called. We went to the counter and the teller verified our documents.(This is where we felt a-bit shaken because she said one of the PCC we presented is not up-to the standard required, but in China different cities have different formats which she didn’t want to accept and wrote it down as a mistake)
The lady checking our documents also asked about our parents last names, and kept repeating about 5 times as if to have us confused.
The documents she checked were:
1. Ds260 confirmation page
2. Birth certificate with photocopy
3. Education certificates with photocopy
4. Police certificate
5. Marriage certificate with photocopy
6. Passports NO copy
7. Two American (2)passport pic
8.Medicals
9. I-134 form ( but she actually didn’t know why we gave her that form, she didn’t know what it was and my wife explained )
After Submission, we waited about 10 mins patiently in the queue and was called to a counter.
We greeted the CO who was a very cool dude and he asked us to confirm our names and date of birth. Then he asked us to take an oath and proceeded to take our fingerprints.
CO: have you been to any other country for over a year apart from Kenya 🇰🇪 and China 🇨🇳?
My wife and I answered
CO: Have you been refused a US visa
My wife answered
CO: did you get married in Kenya 🇰🇪 or China 🇨🇳 ?
My wife answered
CO: currently what do you guys do in China?
My wife and I answered
CO: Have you used any other name apart from the one in your passport?
My wife and I answered
CO: Have you had any criminal records in the past ?
( that’s when he checked our PCC to confirm if our duration of stay matched the years in the PCC)
He noticed I had a gap of 6 months and he needed the PCC for those months.
In China mostly you will have to get PCC from every city you’ve lived in for over 6 months. In our case we had about 6.
He also told us the PCC we provided were ok and that the Chinese lady who said it was not up-to standard was wrong.
CO: how long have you two been in China
My wife and I answered
CO: where are you going to live in the U.S
My wife and I answered
CO: are you a member of the CCP?
My wife and I answered
CO: everything looks good. Karibu (in swahili) which means welcome to America.
He checked all our documents and stamped all the copies and gave us back the originals
He gave us a 221g form and told us to send the 6 months pcc together with our passports.
On May 9th we sent the documents to the embassy.
On May 22nd our status changed from refused to ready .
On may 23rd it changed to Ap
On May 24th it was issued.
On May 25th they sent our passports and we just received it today ( May 27th)
May 29, 2023 at 08:58
Awesome – congratulations!
May 22, 2023 at 06:14
being almost 5 months in 221g. any advice guys would be highly appreciated
May 22, 2023 at 18:17
If you are Iranian, that is sort of normal. If not, check with the embassy.
June 3, 2023 at 01:55
What is 2NL please explain me I don’t have any information help me please
June 3, 2023 at 10:22
2NL is the notification of interview appointment. It is in the FAQ
May 18, 2023 at 14:11
Copied from an excellent post by TOH Jérôme on the Ask questions page.
Hello Brit,
Trust you’re doing good with family🤗. Just to give you feedback on my interview. I’m case number 2023AF00031XXX, had interview in U.S Embassy Yaounde, Cameroon on Tuesday May 16th, 2023
I received my 2NL on Wednesday 29th March, 2023. I had to subscribe for your daily mail post which has helped me a lot, learning through other peoples questions asked here. I took the pain to read/re-read every question you answered via my mail until now. Through this I have gained so much value and now equipped with proper information that can help me further in future and possibly help any other person in need
Showed up at interview way before time, was calm with all documents complete. Later on went through normal security check and document verification by Embassy support personnel. Interview was pretty straight forward, less than 2 minutes😊 as a single applicant, a recap
CO: Warmth greetings, good morning Sir😅!
CO: Now raise your right hand, You have to take this oath, that you promise to say the truth and only the truth
Me(Response): Did as asked
CO: What is your name Please?
Me(Response): gave my full names
CO: Have you ever travelled to another country before?
Me(Response): I had travelled before, so I gave the country and even added confidently by specifying the duration period
CO: Are you married?
Me(Response): NO
CO: Do you have a child?
Me(Response): NO
CO: Do you have a fiancee, girlfriend or someone you intend to marry later on, smiled 😉 at me? (She later on said the reason was just in case your partner happens to apply in future, so that we know by putting her name in the system will facilitate the process, just in case she ever apply for a visa)
Me(Response): NO
CO: Ok, CONGRATULATIONS sir, welcome to USA. You will have to wait for 1-2 weeks for your visa to be printed. You will be notified by mail. That’s all, you can go now😊
So, I was approved Brit. I want to thank you 🙏 personally on this occasion, for taking upon you to serve others in this manner free of charge, others on YouTube may charge for this but you’re doing it for free, God bless you and your household, you will never lack financially, peace of mind and long life to you with family, I wish you the very best and hope just to see you one day inorder to show my appreciation/respect
JUST FEW TIPS/ADVISE***
1) I see many persons abandoning the whole process/forms to be filled by someone else and they just wait to be told what to do, I don’t think is the right way to go, even if some other person has to fill and follow up your process, you should at least know everything happening by reading the information needed and if better, take out time to do all by yourself. The blog by Brit here has everything from A to Z, don’t be lazy, take out time to read and re-read
2) You can also subscribe by mail on the britsimon blog, so that whenever he answers a question, you can receive in your mail, then read them and learn as sometimes you might even have the same question to ask Brit, that way you won’t be repeating questions already answered, take out time to read
3) There are also guidelines for new immigrants. When approved, you can even take the burden to start reading and know what is expected of you as we plan to take this new phase of life in another land, very important
Though long, I believe someone will always learn. Best wishes to all approved 2023
May 16, 2023 at 10:52
Hello BritSimon,
Thank you so much for all you do for DV lottery winners.
We all are so grateful for the information you constantly share on your website, twitter and youtube channel.
I am from Cameroon and live in Cameroon. So will love to share my experience and that of another family.
Country: Cameroun
Embassy: Yaounde, Cameroon.
Case Number: 2023AF39XXX
2NL date: 30th March 2023
interview date: Mid May 2023
Arrival and we went through the normal checks and had to wait with the others outside.
My husband was asked to pay the visa fee $330 ( 215,000FCFA)
We waited for an hour and was called in.
First document checks and reception and collection of finger prints and we were asked to sit and wait for the second interview (main interview).
CO: Congratulations Sir and Madam. What’s your name
My husband: XXxx
Me: XXXx
CO: Place your right hand for finger prints
We: did
CO: Raise up your right hand and take an oath
We: OK
CO: have any of you ever travelled before?
My husband: NO
Me: yes, I travelled in 20xx to xxx for a brief training.
CO: Have any of you been married before?
We: No
CO: When did you get married?
Me: DD/MM/YYYY
CO: hands our originals and says congratulations your visas have been approved.
Few take aways,
1. Be truthful.
Especially families please endeavour to say the truth and ensure all what you filled in the ds260 was the truth. A Family of 7 was rejected because the husband has been previously married and the first spouse left him and traveled to SA without legal divorce. He went ahead and married the new spouse without legally divorcing the first. when he was asked if he had ever applied for a visa he refused but the CO pulled out his file and told him he see he once applied to travel to SA. That’s when the whole story started unfolding.
He tried explaining himself but the CO told them to provide a legal divorce document of the first marriage.
It’s so sad how our African countries issue marriage certificates without checking the previous marriage history of spouses.
2. Have extra money
We did the conversion rates at home and what was asked was way extra.
3. Endeavour to register appointments for all derivatives. I registered my husband’s appointment and forgot to register mine. hand to do it that morning.
May 25, 2024 at 22:36
What do you mean by derivative appointments? So if I have 6 derivatives, I will take appointments for each one of them?
May 25, 2024 at 23:30
No
April 24, 2023 at 15:14
Hello,
CN 2023EU19XXX
Embassy: Paris, France
Interview: 12 April 2023 at 08:30AM.
DS-260: Submitted on 25 May 2022.
I realize the accounts of Paris embassy experience are scare. So, here’s another one to help the ones following.
At 08:30AM sharp I was on line to enter the embassy. Before entering the embassy, I had to go through some documents check and was asked for:
1. My passport
2. 2NL
3. Interview registration confirmation.
Very quickly I went through security where all my electronics (phone had to be switched off) were kept, and was given a number to which I would be called later.
I paid the $330 and waited for approximately 5 minutes until I was called to a booth.
There, I was asked for my birth certificate and my police certificates (I have dual residency in Europe), followed by my diploma.
Questions asked:
1. Confirm my US address for the Green Card and SSN to be delivered
2. Have you been to the US before?
3. Walk me through your studies and diplomas.
Finger prints taken.
I was then asked to wait for the CO to call me. I must have waited for 30 minutes approximately.
Took the oath.
Questions asked:
1. Have you been to the US before?
2. Have you always followed the rules and come back to your country?
Finger prints taken again.
The CO said: I’m happy with your file. Congratulations!
And that was it, really!
I was overprepared with all kinds of supporting evidence including an I-134 and was never asked any of those apart from the above mentioned.
I was out of the embassy at 9:45AM.
19 April 2023: Administrative Processing
20 April 2023: Issued
24 April 2023, 5PM: Email notification to collect my passport
24 April 2023, 6PM: Passport with visa collected.
Thank you Brit for your support through this great experience.
Veronique
April 24, 2023 at 22:47
Sounds like it was EASY!. Well done and thanks for taking the time to capture the experience.
April 15, 2023 at 22:38
Hi, there
I have been grateful continuously tovMr Simon for facilitating this platform which I have benefited tremendously during my interview recently.
I have had an interview JHN consulate that started at 7:00am though I was on the queue an half an hour earlier.
As the time arrives the security started screening process and got access to go through.
The first thing they request was my passport and then she directed me to prepare original documents with copies each. Once she made sure that I have all the documents (school records, pc, birth certificate, I-134 with latest tax return) , directed towards cashier which I paid in cash. Once I paid cashier told me that she give the receipt to the interviewer officer, so I went back to sit where they were calling for the interview. As my turn arrives the interview officer requested me for finger print and take an oath.
CO: State your name
Me: stated my name
Co: are you married
Me: no
Co: any kids
Me: no
Co: where are you working currently
Me: stated where I work
Co: busy checking my school records (it seems fine)
Me ____
Co: checking the I134 and tax return
She has told me on this that there is a quick fix thing which your sponsor income is less than the threshold to accommodate so you can found a co sponsor and send us the I134 and tax return of the Co sponsor.
Me: ok
Co: everything is fine
Me: thanks
And I left with that recommendation which I believe everyone who read this could get a lesson or be aware that you need to double check your sponsors ability or income during preparation.
My status showed refusrf221g at the beginning but
I attached my new co sponsor I 134 and tax return it is on “Ready” though I don’t understand why it’s on ready after I did interview.
Thanks to those who share their stories as well
April 16, 2023 at 14:00
Thanks for the detailed account of the interview.
The requirement for income for the sponsor is shown here:
https://britsimonsays.com/all-about-public-charge-affidavit-of-support-i-134/
April 15, 2023 at 01:45
Mr. Simon, I am speechless without word can be used to express my profound gratitude and thanks for all the help your blog, live video sessions and patiently taking time to answer our questions no matter how repetitive and over again.
I entered the 2023 DV Lottery draw whilst already in CHINA and it was no brainer for me to select in 2020 and 2023 in china as my interview location since I was here for more than a year.
I originally come from an Ethiopia and with case no. AF369** I wasn’t really worried about getting an interview date. I went to Addis to reunite with my family after that covid issues, then got 2Nl which I need to come back to china to do interview , I came along with ALL documents bearing my name. From birth certificate to all academic certificate, I carried everything along and make police certificate for three month in addis and I was over prepared.
*All translated and authenticated carefully including Birth certificate, Police certificate and all supporting document need to be in English.
I Went early to Guangzhou US consulate because my interview was at 7:50 am I was at checkpoint advance onee hr to pass all security issues. there is local people to arrange your document before you go the window to be asked all document and they put the documents into folders and requested including : Ethiopian police certificate, passport , photo and Birth certificate and translated.
I run into some problems paying the fee. My advice, ALWAYS CASH.but the finance said this doular is old version of serious and I advice you have new version of cash dollars. lol.
After paying the fee, I was told to wait, and went to the window who check my document and I was called by the CO . At this point, I was really prepared for every possible question I would be asked. I had read extensively from your blog and was well prepared or so I thought.
I have listened you very carefully and there no one except Mr. Brits can give you real and genuine advice, I am not exaggerating this scenarios he is right person to give you real advice and tips . for me its seems that he got all information form insider but not he is indisputably a Professor!! please dont listen other youtuber bla bla Curtis law and bla bla youtuber is liars listen listen listen Brits simon guaranteed you will be success and Nothing could have prepared me for that.
The CO calls me, makes me swear the oath and I was ready for the questions, but he rather looks looking through my documents again and says
CO: what is your name ? You are not married and erm……everything looks great. (not even looking at me at this point……just focused on the documents)
ME: my name is X X X
CO: are you married ?
ME: Not yet.
CO: what is your highest degree?
ME: Doctor.
CO: you working in china?
ME:yes
CO:As what capacity?
ME: Postdoctoral Fellow.
CO:all seems to be good and congratulation.
He asked me do you want to leave your passport or you will go back then send passport ? I said II have to check with security if I can go back without passport or not then inform you .is that okay ? he said sure. i went to my place where i live and send passport .
My advice is just relax and over prepared as Mr. simon always said and be honest.nothing is trick there. It will be issued soon.
April 15, 2023 at 21:46
Congratulations!!
February 23, 2023 at 15:18
Mr Simon, not enough words can be used to express my profound gratitude and thanks for all the help your blog, live video sessions and patiently taking time to answer our questions no matter how repetitive they were. Haha.
I entered the 2023 DV Lottery draw whilst already in Hungary and it was no brainer for me to select Budapest as my interview location since I was going to be here for more than a year.
I originally come from Ghana and with case no. AF22671 I wasn’t really worried about getting an interview date. Fortunately for me, when coming to Hungary, I came along with ALL documents bearing my name. From birth certificate to all academic certificate, I carried everything along. Haha.
I received my 2NL on 20th December 2022 with my interview scheduled for February 1st at 1:30 PM. Prior to getting my 2NL, I had already applied for and received Police certificates from both Ghana and Hungary. Getting them wasn’t difficult. They all arrived in less than two weeks.
On February 1st, I arranged all the requested documents in two separate envelopes. One containing Originals and the other, copies. At, 1PM I arrived at the embassy and was allowed in at exactly 1:25PM.
I was ushered to the first windows where the lady took my biometrics and documents. She put the documents into folders and requested for the medical report which I gave to her.
She then said the Hungarian Police certificate was the wrong one and I needed to submit a corrected version. She then asked me to go pay the fee.
I run into some problems paying the fee. For some reason, my bank kept declining the transaction, but I was allowed to go out of the embassy, withdraw some cash from the nearest ATM, then back into the embassy. My advice, ALWAYS SEND CASH.
After paying the fee, I was told to wait, and the CO will call me shortly. At this point, I was really prepared for every possible question I would be asked. I had read extensively from your blog and was well prepared or so I thought.
I WAS SHOCKED AT HOW THE WHOLE THING WENT. Nothing could have prepared me for that.
The CO calls me, makes me swear the oath and I was ready for the questions, but she rather looks looking through my documents again and says
CO: I see you are a student here in Budapest. You arrived in 2021 and studying Public Policy. You are not married and erm……everything looks great. (not even looking at me at this point……just focused on the documents)
ME: The other lady said something about the Hungarian PC.
CO: Yes, I will show you how to get the corrected version. (still looking down at the documents)
ME: OK.
When taking the documents to the embassy, I decided to include what we Ghanaians call a National service Certificate. It is a document you get after serving your country for a mandatory period of 1 year upon completion of a tertiary institution.
CO: I see you’ve served your country already. I know your scholarship demands you go back to your country to serve, but I see your service certificate. That’s fine.
ME: (I was quiet, cos it wasn’t really a question, right?) lol
CO: Alright, I have just one question for you. Do you have any plans of becoming a diplomat?
ME: Yes. It is actually my dream.
CO: Great. Maybe you can work for the foreign service someday. Congrats. I will approve your visa when you submit the new PC.
ME: Thank you!
Right after I exit, I go straight to the post office and apply for a new PC. I take my time to follow every instruction. It takes only than usually to arrive.
February 16th. New PC arrives. Submitted at embassy same day,
February 17th. AP
February 23rd. ISSUED.
I didn’t expect the whole interview process to go as smoothly as I experienced with just one question asked.
February 24, 2023 at 00:04
That’s awesome. Congratulations!!
February 9, 2023 at 05:42
Hi everyone! Hope some of you will find my experience useful. However when reading my interview experience take into account that me, my husband and our daughter have been to the US many many times on B1/B2, each time have spent at least a month but never overstayed, never had issues with law inforcesment, and I have immediate and extended family living in the US. With that said here is my experience.
Case no.: 2023EU11k
Country: Armenia
Interview at Islamabad Embassy
DS260 submitted May 10
Case unlocked May 13 to add high school
Case unlocked Sept 8 to add newborn
Current: January
2NL: December 21
Interview date: Feb 1st
Status: Issued
Our interview was scheduled at 9am we were at the bus terminal to the diplomatic enclavement at 7am but they didn’t let us in till 8.30. The bus takes you directly to the US embassy where you will be guided from the entrance to security. I was allowed to bring baby bottle with pre made milk for my 7 month old. You can carry diapers and necessities for your baby in a clear shopper bag. However best to call them beforehand and ask if a certain item is allowed. In the waiting/interview hall there are drinking fountains and washrooms so no worries.
1st window I submitted our 2NL and 2 photos for each applicant and received a token number. After a while our number was called out for the 2nd window. There I submitted all the documents that were required and COPIES for everything! Take copies and extra photos! Cuz here they asked for another set of photos which I had. Take as many supporting documents as you can even if you think you don’t need them Take them. Make sure you carry translations and copies for everything you have. I am an armenian citizen, my husband and kids are Pakistani citizens so the papers vary. We had to submit fingerprints here too after that was asked to be seated and wait for the CO to call us.
We waited for about an hour till our turn came. The greeting and how are you part was very casual. He asked couple of questions about my birth certificate and if I had transferred from yerevan I said no I live in Pakistan I didn’t transfer. They were having technical issues after they fixed it he called me again.
Him: before we begin you have to take an oath
Me: yes but before we do so I would like to inform you that the kids’ passport numbers have changed after submitting DS260 and I would like to correct
Him: oh thank you for letting me know. The rest is current and correct?
Me: yes
Him: okay we’ll take your fingerprints and begin. So tell me how did you and your husband meet?
Me: we met in Canada in college
Him: okay and you have 2 kids. Tell me about your travel history
I told him
Him: have you or your husband ever had any issues with law
Me: no sir
Him: as I understand you have valid US visas do you remember when do they expire?
I actually had the old passports with visas in them so I gave them to him cuz he said they have to cancel those visas. After this he gave me an information paper about domestic abuse and how to go on about it in the US (it’s a standard procedure)
Him: so I’m going to refer your application for approval congratulations. You can collect your passports within 2 weeks
He handed me over the instructions how to register to pick up the passports and the interview was over
Right after the interview for couple of days ceac was showing Administrative Processing after which it changed to Issued. I received an email that the passports are being processed for delivery and went to pick up from Karachi pick up point exactly a week after the interview.
The embassy staff was very friendly and helpful. If you have any questions before or during the interview don’t hesitate to ask/clarify
February 9, 2023 at 23:46
Thank you very much!