L1, L2 Visa

This forum helped a lot in getting an idea about the process and made things easier. Adding my experience so that others can get benefitted.

Biometric: 15th Feb, 2023
Visa interview: 16th Feb, 2023

Reached Chennai a day before Biometric. Stayed at The Park Chennai. It's close to VAC and US consulate. It's easy to get cab/auto from any online booking app and reach these centers within 5-10 mins. Remember to carry a mask, else they will not allow you inside.

For Biometric, reached 30 mins prior to appointment. Stood in the queue for 20 mins before they let us in for document verification.

Documents needed:

1. Passport for self + dependants
2. DS-160 confirmation for all applicants
3. Appointment confirmation for all applicants

Kids under 14 years of age need not accompany you, but you can carry all the documents. Also, it's better to carry 2in x 2in white background photographs (read photo requirements carefully) for all applicants. They have a facility on the ground floor to take photos and printouts if you need any. You can get a photo done in 5 mins (Rs 300 for 6 copies). If you face any issue with a photo, like the VAC center not approving it for some reason, you can submit it at the time of the interview. It's better to take kids along with you in case something goes wrong with VAC.

At the day of the interview, reached the center 30 mins prior to the appointment time. They were already letting in people for our slot, so maybe reaching 45 mins earlier as well is not a bad idea. First, they do a security check for all your belongings, and then they let you in. At the first counter, they ask you to arrange the documents.

1. First 8 pages for I-129S
2. First page of I-797 (this shows L1 blanket approval)
3. Passports of all applicants
4. Any other supporting documents (this is optional and would be needed in case VO asks for it)

Carry at least 2 copies for I-129S and I-797. Next, they will let you to the payment counter, where you need to pay 500$ fees. Though they mention on their website that cash is accepted, the person at the counter said he would only accept cash if a credit card does not work. So Card/DD is the preferred mode of payment. The person mentioned that they are trying to reduce cash transactions. Also, note that ONLY credit is accepted and not debit cards. The credit card must have international transactions enabled. Post the payment, they will give you the payment receipt and attach it to the document set.

After waiting for almost 45 mins, we got the chance to meet the VO. The interview went as follows.

Me: Good morning officer. How you doing?
VO: Good morning. Can I have your documents?

(Handed over document set).

VO (to my wife): Whats your highest qualification? (it was a surprise since the first question was asked to my wife. VO did not ask any other questions to her after that.)

VO: Who is your petitioner?
Me: Answered.
VO: can you tell me more about the project you are working on?
Me: Answered.
VO: What is your job profile?
Me: Answered.

VO: I am approving your visa. Have safe travels.

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Takeaways:

Just be dressed formally and prepare well for frequently asked questions. If the documents are well in-order, this should suffice.