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Visa
L1, L2 Visa
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L1A + L2 Chennai
Vac Appointment - 15th March
Consular Appointment- 20th March
Received passport for primary L1A on 23rd march,
however the L2 is showing Approved in Ceac website but no progress from there.
Is this normal? Can anyone suggest?
Regarding the interview:
Wore formals with blazer.
Spouse wore formals.
Paid antifraud fee of 500$ with credit card
Questions:
Salary in US?
What is your role?
How many reportees?
Any managers under you?
Do you have hire and fire authority?
You can take all docs however they only sort and check passport, ds-160, I129s(2 copies) and I797(2 copies)
Consular Appointment- 20th March
Received passport for primary L1A on 23rd march,
however the L2 is showing Approved in Ceac website but no progress from there.
Is this normal? Can anyone suggest?
Regarding the interview:
Wore formals with blazer.
Spouse wore formals.
Paid antifraud fee of 500$ with credit card
Questions:
Salary in US?
What is your role?
How many reportees?
Any managers under you?
Do you have hire and fire authority?
You can take all docs however they only sort and check passport, ds-160, I129s(2 copies) and I797(2 copies)
All Replies (0)
L1 B Blanket - Chennai , Approved
The experience shared on the Immihelp forum helped me with my preparation, so I am sharing my experience in the hope that someone else might benefit from it.
I don't hold any other US visa, and this was my first time applying for an L1B Blanket visa. On XX March 2023, I had my biometric appointment at 8:30 am at the Chennai VAC. My wife and I were dressed casually since it was just for biometrics. We arrived at 8 am, and the security guard at the entrance allowed us inside the premise after verifying our appointment time.
Once inside the building, the staff asked us to go to the first floor and keep the following documents:
• DS 160 confirmation page
• Appointment Confirmation page
• Passport Original
The queue on the first floor moved very quickly, and we moved to the second floor, where they did a security check and allowed us inside. At the counter, the staff verified the details entered on DS 160 to our passport. After this, we moved into another queue and then directly to the biometric queue. Once at the biometric counter, the staff took biometrics and stamped DS160.
We had to carry the stamped DS160 to our next day consular interview.
Here are a few tips based on my experience:
• Do not reach the venue early as they won't allow you inside the premise earlier than 30 minutes to your appointment time.
• You can carry your mobile phone, but it should be in switched off mode.
• Avoid carrying a large suitcase or bag. However, I did see others carrying small handbags, etc.
• It is advisable to carry all the documents etc. in a transparent folder
The whole process was very quick, and we were out in 20 minutes.
On next day, I had my interview appointment at 8:30 am at the Chennai Consulate. My wife and I were dressed semi-formally with formal shirts and trousers. We reached the venue at 8 am, and there were already a few people in the queue outside the consulate. However, after showing our appointment, a staff member allowed us to go ahead. There were 2-3 points where they checked our documents and passports, etc. After the security check, we were moved into a hall where the staff was giving instructions on the documents, etc. Based on my L1B Blanket visa type, the following sets of documents were required:
• VAC Stamped DS160 of primary applicant
• 2 sets of all eight pages of I-129S
• 2 sets of the first page of I-797
• Original Passport of primary applicant and dependent
Once the documents were sorted, the staff bundled the papers with the passport and asked us to go ahead. We moved into another building where the staff asked my wife to wait in the seating area as I went ahead and made the anti-fraud fee payment. I used a credit card, and it worked without any issues.
Once the payment was done, I joined my wife back in the seating area, and the staff asked us to stand in a queue. After 20 minutes, we were asked to move into another area where the interviews were happening.
As we stood in line, we could clearly hear the ongoing interview conversations. At the first counter, they verified our documents and passports and asked us to go back into the interview queue.
As we stood in queue, we could see VO interviewing the person ahead of us with a smiling face. It made us feel calm and comfortable that VO seems to be in good mood. :)
Within 5 minutes, it was our turn.
The visa officer requested our documents and passports and greeted us. Here is a summary of the interview:
VO: Are you applying for L1 A or L1 B?
Ans: L1 B
VO : Let me interview your wife first. ( This shocked me a bit as I was not expecting this!! )
VO to my wife : What is your highest qualification Ans - XXX
VO : Thanks, you can go back to the seating area or you can stand here. My wife decided to stay back.
VO started interviewing me :
VO : How long has it been with the current employer ? Ans : XXX years
VO : For what client are you going to work ? Ans : No client as it is internal project
VO : What are you going to work in US ? Ans : Explained the project
VO : Why were you the only one selected among your colleague for this project ? Ans : Explained my specialized knowledge and my experience
VO : What would you be your salary in US ? Ans XXX
VO : thank you, Both your visa are approved. You should receive passport in one week. Please carry stamped I-I129s at the port of entry.
Overall, the interview lasted only 5 minute.
We were out of consulate by 9.10 am.
Few Tips :
1. Do not reach early to the venue as they won't allow you inside the premise earlier than 30 minutes to your appointment time
2. Do not carry phone, electronics, car key ( remote ) , smart watch etc. We just carried cash, cards, documents along with us.
3. Prepare your answers for specialized knowledge in crisp 3-4 sentences
4. Be calm and avoid listening to others interview
5. It would be advisable to practice the sample questions as it will give you enough confidence to answer them in front of VO
6. Book your stay near consulate as you can walk and reach consulate and will not have hassle of carrying phone along with you for booking cabs etc.
7. Book early slots as there won't be any backlog from the earlier slots. As I could see that after us, queue was becoming long.
I checked my visa status on the evening of the interview day and it was Approved. After 2 days, it turned to Issued and on the same day evening, CGI portal showed that passport is with delivery team. I received passport 3 days after the interview.
Overall, I would say it went smooth however, I prepared well anticipating tougher Interview questions.
I don't hold any other US visa, and this was my first time applying for an L1B Blanket visa. On XX March 2023, I had my biometric appointment at 8:30 am at the Chennai VAC. My wife and I were dressed casually since it was just for biometrics. We arrived at 8 am, and the security guard at the entrance allowed us inside the premise after verifying our appointment time.
Once inside the building, the staff asked us to go to the first floor and keep the following documents:
• DS 160 confirmation page
• Appointment Confirmation page
• Passport Original
The queue on the first floor moved very quickly, and we moved to the second floor, where they did a security check and allowed us inside. At the counter, the staff verified the details entered on DS 160 to our passport. After this, we moved into another queue and then directly to the biometric queue. Once at the biometric counter, the staff took biometrics and stamped DS160.
We had to carry the stamped DS160 to our next day consular interview.
Here are a few tips based on my experience:
• Do not reach the venue early as they won't allow you inside the premise earlier than 30 minutes to your appointment time.
• You can carry your mobile phone, but it should be in switched off mode.
• Avoid carrying a large suitcase or bag. However, I did see others carrying small handbags, etc.
• It is advisable to carry all the documents etc. in a transparent folder
The whole process was very quick, and we were out in 20 minutes.
On next day, I had my interview appointment at 8:30 am at the Chennai Consulate. My wife and I were dressed semi-formally with formal shirts and trousers. We reached the venue at 8 am, and there were already a few people in the queue outside the consulate. However, after showing our appointment, a staff member allowed us to go ahead. There were 2-3 points where they checked our documents and passports, etc. After the security check, we were moved into a hall where the staff was giving instructions on the documents, etc. Based on my L1B Blanket visa type, the following sets of documents were required:
• VAC Stamped DS160 of primary applicant
• 2 sets of all eight pages of I-129S
• 2 sets of the first page of I-797
• Original Passport of primary applicant and dependent
Once the documents were sorted, the staff bundled the papers with the passport and asked us to go ahead. We moved into another building where the staff asked my wife to wait in the seating area as I went ahead and made the anti-fraud fee payment. I used a credit card, and it worked without any issues.
Once the payment was done, I joined my wife back in the seating area, and the staff asked us to stand in a queue. After 20 minutes, we were asked to move into another area where the interviews were happening.
As we stood in line, we could clearly hear the ongoing interview conversations. At the first counter, they verified our documents and passports and asked us to go back into the interview queue.
As we stood in queue, we could see VO interviewing the person ahead of us with a smiling face. It made us feel calm and comfortable that VO seems to be in good mood. :)
Within 5 minutes, it was our turn.
The visa officer requested our documents and passports and greeted us. Here is a summary of the interview:
VO: Are you applying for L1 A or L1 B?
Ans: L1 B
VO : Let me interview your wife first. ( This shocked me a bit as I was not expecting this!! )
VO to my wife : What is your highest qualification Ans - XXX
VO : Thanks, you can go back to the seating area or you can stand here. My wife decided to stay back.
VO started interviewing me :
VO : How long has it been with the current employer ? Ans : XXX years
VO : For what client are you going to work ? Ans : No client as it is internal project
VO : What are you going to work in US ? Ans : Explained the project
VO : Why were you the only one selected among your colleague for this project ? Ans : Explained my specialized knowledge and my experience
VO : What would you be your salary in US ? Ans XXX
VO : thank you, Both your visa are approved. You should receive passport in one week. Please carry stamped I-I129s at the port of entry.
Overall, the interview lasted only 5 minute.
We were out of consulate by 9.10 am.
Few Tips :
1. Do not reach early to the venue as they won't allow you inside the premise earlier than 30 minutes to your appointment time
2. Do not carry phone, electronics, car key ( remote ) , smart watch etc. We just carried cash, cards, documents along with us.
3. Prepare your answers for specialized knowledge in crisp 3-4 sentences
4. Be calm and avoid listening to others interview
5. It would be advisable to practice the sample questions as it will give you enough confidence to answer them in front of VO
6. Book your stay near consulate as you can walk and reach consulate and will not have hassle of carrying phone along with you for booking cabs etc.
7. Book early slots as there won't be any backlog from the earlier slots. As I could see that after us, queue was becoming long.
I checked my visa status on the evening of the interview day and it was Approved. After 2 days, it turned to Issued and on the same day evening, CGI portal showed that passport is with delivery team. I received passport 3 days after the interview.
Overall, I would say it went smooth however, I prepared well anticipating tougher Interview questions.
All Replies (3)
L1 B Chennai , Biometrics hyderabad
Jan 27 - Hyderbad biometrics .
Passport , DS160 , Appointment confirmation.
Reached Application center 30 min early and staff have checked DS160 and passport for DOB and name validations.
After that entered inside and gave my finger prints and they took a photo of mine and told me process is completed in less than 10 min.
Feb1st Chennai Interview.
Docs - passport , ds160 stamped at biometrics , l1 b petition documents.
there will be staff to set your documents in order once entered inside. he will help you to keep in order
Int. Hi
me: hello officer.
Int: can you pass me the documents.
me: gave the documents.
Int: So you work for XXXX company .
me: yes
Int: what is special skill that you hold in the company
me : told my expertise and maintained eye contact.
Int: have you worked in this application from the beginning .
me: no officer , but i have gained this level expertise by working from past X years .
Int: How many of your company employees are there in the same project as yours.
me: gave the number and told currently they are not within the organization.
Int: ok . i am approving your visa and gave me the stamped i797 and kept one set with him.
Me: Thank you officer have a great day .
Got my passport within 5 days
Overall my experience was good and i was having so many thoughts running in mind, but somehow kept them aside during the interview tried not to show my nervousness.
Thank you immihelp, i am sharing this exp so it can help someone to boost their confidence.
Passport , DS160 , Appointment confirmation.
Reached Application center 30 min early and staff have checked DS160 and passport for DOB and name validations.
After that entered inside and gave my finger prints and they took a photo of mine and told me process is completed in less than 10 min.
Feb1st Chennai Interview.
Docs - passport , ds160 stamped at biometrics , l1 b petition documents.
there will be staff to set your documents in order once entered inside. he will help you to keep in order
Int. Hi
me: hello officer.
Int: can you pass me the documents.
me: gave the documents.
Int: So you work for XXXX company .
me: yes
Int: what is special skill that you hold in the company
me : told my expertise and maintained eye contact.
Int: have you worked in this application from the beginning .
me: no officer , but i have gained this level expertise by working from past X years .
Int: How many of your company employees are there in the same project as yours.
me: gave the number and told currently they are not within the organization.
Int: ok . i am approving your visa and gave me the stamped i797 and kept one set with him.
Me: Thank you officer have a great day .
Got my passport within 5 days
Overall my experience was good and i was having so many thoughts running in mind, but somehow kept them aside during the interview tried not to show my nervousness.
Thank you immihelp, i am sharing this exp so it can help someone to boost their confidence.
All Replies (0)
L1B - Feb 2023 - Mumbai - Approved
Feb 1 - biometrics - Straight forward process.
Reached VAC 30 mins prior to slot time.
Docs must carry : passport, ds-160.
QA asked : Full name and DOB.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Feb 2 - Consular interview
Reached 30 mins prior to slot time.
Docs must carry: passport, I-797, offer letter
QA asked : company name, client name, job nature, previous exp
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Passport stamped and delivered by Feb 7
--------------------------------------------------------
Reached VAC 30 mins prior to slot time.
Docs must carry : passport, ds-160.
QA asked : Full name and DOB.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Feb 2 - Consular interview
Reached 30 mins prior to slot time.
Docs must carry: passport, I-797, offer letter
QA asked : company name, client name, job nature, previous exp
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Passport stamped and delivered by Feb 7
--------------------------------------------------------
All Replies (0)
L1A Blanket Interview
I have L1A interview on Monday next week. my question is must my job title be manager or can it be a Lead? I have 5 people reporting to me.
many thanks
many thanks
All Replies (0)
L1A Blanket Visa + L2 for Wife and 2 Kids Approved at Chennai
This forum helped me a lot in getting an idea about the overall interview process and made things easier. Adding my experience so that others can get benefitted.
Biometric: 8th Feb, 2023
Visa interview: 9th Feb, 2023
Reached Chennai a day before Biometric. Stayed at Hotel Raj Park Chennai. it is close to VAC and US consulate. Easy to get auto from outside hotel and reach these centers within 10-15 mins.
For Biometric, reached 30 mins prior to appointment. Remember to carry mask for kids as well, else they will not allow you inside. Stood in the queue for 10 mins before they let us in for document verification. Following docs needed:
1. Passport for self + dependents
2. DS-160 confirmation for all applicants
3. Appointment confirmation for all applicants
Kids under 14 years of age need not accompany as mentioned under instructions in appointment letter but my kids accompanied me. Also, it’s better to carry 2in x 2in white background photographs for all applicants though they did not ask the same for all of us. They captured photographs for myself, wife and 1 kid (12 years old). They asked to show photograph for my kid (3 years old) and told to submit the same during interview scheduled for next day. They verified name and DOB and stamped all DS160 forms for myself and dependents. Please ensure to verify stamping on DS160 forms for all the members before you leave consulate. The entire process hardly took 30 minutes.
Note: They have a facility on the ground floor to take photos and printouts if you need any. 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.
On the day of the interview, reached the center 45 mins prior to the appointment time. Waited for 10 mins and then joined security check queue. First, they do a security check for all your belongings, and then they let you in. Ensure not to carry any bag, mobile etc. At the first counter, they asked to arrange the documents in following order.
• Appointment Confirmation
• Demand Draft (asked me to write full name and passport number on back of Demand draft)
• DS160 for myself only
• I-129S (two copies)
• I-797 First Page only (two copies)
• Passports for all dependents (They did not ask for Old passports)
Note: They did not ask for any other documents during entire interview process.
As I was having kids with me, they asked me to skip the queue and make to next building. I was asked to stand in queue and they allowed my dependents to go inside the building. After 10 mins, I entered into building and they asked me to go to the payment counter, where you need to pay 500$ fees. The person at the counter asked names of dependents along with my organization name. They attach the payment receipt to the document set.
Then I moved to next room where my dependents were waiting. I joined another queue and after waiting for almost 15 mins, was asked to join another queue in adjoining hall where interviews were getting conducting. They were two queues having lot of people. As I was having kids, they asked me to skip the queue and asked me to move to next available counter. Here my documents were verified. I also handed over one of my kid's photo. They scanned it and returned back me the original one. Then I was asked to go to next available counter for final interview. I got my turn within 5 mins. I proceeded to interview window along with my dependents. The interview went as follows.
Me: Good morning Sir. How are you doing?
VO: Good morning. Can I have your documents?
Me: Handed over documents
VO: What is your current company name?
Me: Answered.
VO: What is your Job Title?
Me: Answered.
VO: Since how long you are working with current company?
Me: Answered.
VO: How much experience do you have in Managerial role?
Me: Answered.
VO: Are you going to USA first time?
Me: Answered.
VO: Where are you going to USA?
Me: Answered (I mentioned Client name and Client address)
VO: Would you be working at client office or company office?
Me: Answered.
VO: How many direct reportees will be in USA?
Me: Answered.
VO: What are job titles of direct reportees?
Me: Answered.
VO: Do you have hire and fire authority?
Me: Answered.
VO: Asked me to scan fingers
Me: Done.
VO: Did not ask any question from my wife except spouse name. Asked my wife to scan her fingers.
VO: I am approving your visa. Please secure this green slip and all the best.
VO: He kept Original Passports, one copy of I-129S and I-797 and returned back one stamped copy of I-129S form and I-797
The entire process took around 1 hour. I received all the visa stamped passports on 12th Feb.
Thanks
Biometric: 8th Feb, 2023
Visa interview: 9th Feb, 2023
Reached Chennai a day before Biometric. Stayed at Hotel Raj Park Chennai. it is close to VAC and US consulate. Easy to get auto from outside hotel and reach these centers within 10-15 mins.
For Biometric, reached 30 mins prior to appointment. Remember to carry mask for kids as well, else they will not allow you inside. Stood in the queue for 10 mins before they let us in for document verification. Following docs needed:
1. Passport for self + dependents
2. DS-160 confirmation for all applicants
3. Appointment confirmation for all applicants
Kids under 14 years of age need not accompany as mentioned under instructions in appointment letter but my kids accompanied me. Also, it’s better to carry 2in x 2in white background photographs for all applicants though they did not ask the same for all of us. They captured photographs for myself, wife and 1 kid (12 years old). They asked to show photograph for my kid (3 years old) and told to submit the same during interview scheduled for next day. They verified name and DOB and stamped all DS160 forms for myself and dependents. Please ensure to verify stamping on DS160 forms for all the members before you leave consulate. The entire process hardly took 30 minutes.
Note: They have a facility on the ground floor to take photos and printouts if you need any. 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.
On the day of the interview, reached the center 45 mins prior to the appointment time. Waited for 10 mins and then joined security check queue. First, they do a security check for all your belongings, and then they let you in. Ensure not to carry any bag, mobile etc. At the first counter, they asked to arrange the documents in following order.
• Appointment Confirmation
• Demand Draft (asked me to write full name and passport number on back of Demand draft)
• DS160 for myself only
• I-129S (two copies)
• I-797 First Page only (two copies)
• Passports for all dependents (They did not ask for Old passports)
Note: They did not ask for any other documents during entire interview process.
As I was having kids with me, they asked me to skip the queue and make to next building. I was asked to stand in queue and they allowed my dependents to go inside the building. After 10 mins, I entered into building and they asked me to go to the payment counter, where you need to pay 500$ fees. The person at the counter asked names of dependents along with my organization name. They attach the payment receipt to the document set.
Then I moved to next room where my dependents were waiting. I joined another queue and after waiting for almost 15 mins, was asked to join another queue in adjoining hall where interviews were getting conducting. They were two queues having lot of people. As I was having kids, they asked me to skip the queue and asked me to move to next available counter. Here my documents were verified. I also handed over one of my kid's photo. They scanned it and returned back me the original one. Then I was asked to go to next available counter for final interview. I got my turn within 5 mins. I proceeded to interview window along with my dependents. The interview went as follows.
Me: Good morning Sir. How are you doing?
VO: Good morning. Can I have your documents?
Me: Handed over documents
VO: What is your current company name?
Me: Answered.
VO: What is your Job Title?
Me: Answered.
VO: Since how long you are working with current company?
Me: Answered.
VO: How much experience do you have in Managerial role?
Me: Answered.
VO: Are you going to USA first time?
Me: Answered.
VO: Where are you going to USA?
Me: Answered (I mentioned Client name and Client address)
VO: Would you be working at client office or company office?
Me: Answered.
VO: How many direct reportees will be in USA?
Me: Answered.
VO: What are job titles of direct reportees?
Me: Answered.
VO: Do you have hire and fire authority?
Me: Answered.
VO: Asked me to scan fingers
Me: Done.
VO: Did not ask any question from my wife except spouse name. Asked my wife to scan her fingers.
VO: I am approving your visa. Please secure this green slip and all the best.
VO: He kept Original Passports, one copy of I-129S and I-797 and returned back one stamped copy of I-129S form and I-797
The entire process took around 1 hour. I received all the visa stamped passports on 12th Feb.
Thanks
All Replies (0)
L1 A Blanket + 3 L2 Experience in Chennai Consulate
Hi All,
I am sharing below my L1 A Blanket + 3 L2 Experience in Chennai Consulate
Feb 1st 2023: Interview Experience
Questions:
• Visa type - Is it specialized or Managerial Category?
• What will be your US salary?
• Which Location in the US?
• About previous L1A rejection
• About speeding ticket which I have mentioned in DS-160
• How many reportee's you will have in the US?
Feb 1st 2023:
- https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx - "Approved"
- https://atlas.my.salesforce-sites.com/ - "Passport is still with the US Embassy or Consulate"
Feb 10th 2023:
- https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx - "Approved"
- https://atlas.my.salesforce-sites.com/ - "Document Delivery Information:"
Feb 17th 2023 11:00 AM:
- https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx - "Issued"
- https://atlas.my.salesforce-sites.com/ - "Passport has been received from the consular section and is currently being processed for delivery"
Feb 17th 2023 4:00 PM:
- https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx - "Issued"
- https://atlas.my.salesforce-sites.com/ - "your passport is ready for pickup"
Feb 19th 2023 3:00 PM:
- I collected the passport
• I had ticket for excessive speeding and I was also finger printed for the same during 2012, I have highlighted about this during my visa interview and also I emphasized the visa officer to take a look at the papers. He collected the papers and mentioned that he will scan and add that to my file so that it will be there for reference.
• Because of the above case, I am sure mine should have gone to security check. But only thing was the status in ceac was Approved and it did not get changed to Administrative Processing.
• In between I dropped an email to check the status but I got a below standard reply. Post that I stopped checking the status frequently
o "Your visa application is under processing at the Embassy/Consulate. Also, when additional administrative processing is required, the length of processing time will vary based on the circumstances of each case hence it cannot be expedited"
• If you are in similar situation, My only advice is don’t think too much or keep checking the status. Try diverting your thoughts, Because you could not do much except reading some experiences from such forums
• But, what I have seen in these forums are, There are so many who have reported the problem. But it is un fortunate to see not many have come back to update their final status
• Hope my experience helps you
I am sharing below my L1 A Blanket + 3 L2 Experience in Chennai Consulate
Feb 1st 2023: Interview Experience
Questions:
• Visa type - Is it specialized or Managerial Category?
• What will be your US salary?
• Which Location in the US?
• About previous L1A rejection
• About speeding ticket which I have mentioned in DS-160
• How many reportee's you will have in the US?
Feb 1st 2023:
- https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx - "Approved"
- https://atlas.my.salesforce-sites.com/ - "Passport is still with the US Embassy or Consulate"
Feb 10th 2023:
- https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx - "Approved"
- https://atlas.my.salesforce-sites.com/ - "Document Delivery Information:"
Feb 17th 2023 11:00 AM:
- https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx - "Issued"
- https://atlas.my.salesforce-sites.com/ - "Passport has been received from the consular section and is currently being processed for delivery"
Feb 17th 2023 4:00 PM:
- https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx - "Issued"
- https://atlas.my.salesforce-sites.com/ - "your passport is ready for pickup"
Feb 19th 2023 3:00 PM:
- I collected the passport
• I had ticket for excessive speeding and I was also finger printed for the same during 2012, I have highlighted about this during my visa interview and also I emphasized the visa officer to take a look at the papers. He collected the papers and mentioned that he will scan and add that to my file so that it will be there for reference.
• Because of the above case, I am sure mine should have gone to security check. But only thing was the status in ceac was Approved and it did not get changed to Administrative Processing.
• In between I dropped an email to check the status but I got a below standard reply. Post that I stopped checking the status frequently
o "Your visa application is under processing at the Embassy/Consulate. Also, when additional administrative processing is required, the length of processing time will vary based on the circumstances of each case hence it cannot be expedited"
• If you are in similar situation, My only advice is don’t think too much or keep checking the status. Try diverting your thoughts, Because you could not do much except reading some experiences from such forums
• But, what I have seen in these forums are, There are so many who have reported the problem. But it is un fortunate to see not many have come back to update their final status
• Hope my experience helps you
All Replies (0)
L1B Blanket visa (+ L2 for wife and 2 kids) approved at Chennai
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.
--------------------------------
Takeaways:
Just be dressed formally and prepare well for frequently asked questions. If the documents are well in-order, this should suffice.
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.
--------------------------------
Takeaways:
Just be dressed formally and prepare well for frequently asked questions. If the documents are well in-order, this should suffice.
All Replies (0)
L1A + 3 Dependent
Biometrics : 13 - Feb -2023 - 11 AM
Visa Interview : 14-Feb-2023 - 11.30 AM
Location : Chennai
Thanks to the forum who has provided more info to prepare the interview
Questions Asked :
VO : How long you are working in current company?
Me : Answered
VO : What is your special Skill? ( Since I was travelled 10 year back in L1-B , the office has seen previous travel history, which made him ask this questions though i went in L1A)
Me : Answered
VO : Explain your Special Skill?
Me : Answered
VO : Asked my Son : How old are you ? Have you been in US before ?
Me : My Son answered.
VO : VISA is approved. Status as of now Issued from Approved.
I could able hear other candidate who was giving interview in L1A & L1B , both are approved.
L1 A Candidate 1
VO : Where are you going ?
VO : What is your salary?
VO : Do you have hire and fire authority?
VO : How many reportees are there?
VO : Visa Approved
L1B Candidate 1:
VO : What is your location?
VO : Explain your special Skill?
VO : Could bit elaborate ?
VO : Visa Approved
Visa Interview : 14-Feb-2023 - 11.30 AM
Location : Chennai
Thanks to the forum who has provided more info to prepare the interview
Questions Asked :
VO : How long you are working in current company?
Me : Answered
VO : What is your special Skill? ( Since I was travelled 10 year back in L1-B , the office has seen previous travel history, which made him ask this questions though i went in L1A)
Me : Answered
VO : Explain your Special Skill?
Me : Answered
VO : Asked my Son : How old are you ? Have you been in US before ?
Me : My Son answered.
VO : VISA is approved. Status as of now Issued from Approved.
I could able hear other candidate who was giving interview in L1A & L1B , both are approved.
L1 A Candidate 1
VO : Where are you going ?
VO : What is your salary?
VO : Do you have hire and fire authority?
VO : How many reportees are there?
VO : Visa Approved
L1B Candidate 1:
VO : What is your location?
VO : Explain your special Skill?
VO : Could bit elaborate ?
VO : Visa Approved
All Replies (0)
L1A individual visa with 2 dependent L2 at Calgary consulate (DS160 status shows Approved since 24th Jan 2023 and no progress since then)
Hello Everyone,
I had my visa interview on 24th Jan 2023 and the DS160 status changed to “APPROVED” the same day with the status message as “Your visa is in final processing. If you have not received it in more than 10 working days, please see the webpage for contact information of the embassy or consulate where you submitted your application.
For more information, please visit U.S. Consulate General Calgary.”
Its been more that 15 days (10 working days) and the status is still the same. Called the helpline number as well as emailed them but got a very canned answer to keep checking CEAC website for updates.
Anyone else in same or similar situation? Please advise
I had my visa interview on 24th Jan 2023 and the DS160 status changed to “APPROVED” the same day with the status message as “Your visa is in final processing. If you have not received it in more than 10 working days, please see the webpage for contact information of the embassy or consulate where you submitted your application.
For more information, please visit U.S. Consulate General Calgary.”
Its been more that 15 days (10 working days) and the status is still the same. Called the helpline number as well as emailed them but got a very canned answer to keep checking CEAC website for updates.
Anyone else in same or similar situation? Please advise
All Replies (0)
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