For visitors, travel, student and other international travel medical insurance.
Visit insubuy.com or call +1 (866) INSUBUY or +1 (972) 985-4400
Visa
L1, L2 Visa
Fields marked as * are required.
L1A Visa Chennai- Approved
First of all thanks to the forum for sharing their experiences. Which helped me immensely while preparing for the interview. Now itās time to give back to the community š.
Me along with wife and Kid (9yrs) appeared for the L1A interview in Chennai. We stayed in "The Park" hotel which is very close to both VAC and the consulate. Out appointment was on 23rd and 24th of May. Both days our appointments were scheduled earlier in the day. That helped us to escape from hot Chennai weather.
DAY 1 - VAC Center for Biometrics
We reached 30 mins earlier and immediately we were allowed inside. Inside, we were asked to be ready with DS-160 for each of the applicants along with the passport. In the first desk at reception, passport number in the application was verified. There they put stickers which had our name along with a barcode on our passports and attached sealed DS-160 to it with a rubber band.
Next we stood in the queue for BM. Wife and kid were sent to one counter and I was sent to different one. In counter basic questions were asked to confirm the identity and took the photographs and fingerprint scanning. Though we were carrying photograph of my Kid, it was not asked. There as no fingerprint scanning for him.
P.S: As per the center, mobile phones are allowed inside in switched off mode. But we left it at hotel just to be on safer side.
DAY 2 ā Consulate for Interview
Again we reached the venue 30 mins in advance, we were allowed inside after verifying our appointment letter and DS-160.
After first gate, bags and body were scanned. No electronics items are allowed, including car keys. One lady standing in front of us was sent out twice to throw sanitizer and moisturizer she was carrying. You have to go all the way out till first entry point to dispose it. Be careful about what you are carrying.
After initial security check we were sent to next room, where we were asked to arrange 2 sets of I-129S and I-797 along with Primary applicant DS-160. Also we were instructed to write the Name and Passport number behind the DD I was carrying for Fraud Protection fee. They verified the documents and made a bunch of it with rubber band and sent us to next building.
There were already few people standing in the queue, but the lady at the entrance asked us to skip the queue and directly enter inside.
Inside main building there were many counter where interviews were happening and waiting area was just in front of that. You could clearly hear the conversations of the interview. 2 separate lines were maintained for L1 and H1B. I was asked to go to Counter 32 to pay the Fraud Protection fee and family was waiting in the queue. My company had issued me a DD of INR 39k as per the exchange rate but 2 days before the appointment date, it was revised to 40k. I got a mail informing difference amount can be paid through the cash / card at the counter. But they were accepting only cash on that day.
After some time, we were sent near a counter and asked to wait in the queue. One medical student/Intern was being interviewed before me it went on for 10 mins and his visa was approved.
Next we were called, Conversation went like this.
Me: Good morning Madam, how are you?
VO : Very good morning, I am doing great. Letās see who we have here - with a Smile
Please handover your documents.
She started going through I129S and scan the documents.
VO: So you are here for L1B
Me: No Mam, its for L1A
VO: Oh yes, its mentioned over here. My bad.
How long you have been your petitioner ?
Me : 8+ years
VO: 8 Years? That a long time.
Please tell me about your roles and duties
Me: Explained about my project, Client, my role and team structure in couple of mins in pure layman terms.
VO: What will be your team size?
Me: XX
VO: All direct reports?
Me: No, only Y , they will be my LOB managers and other will report to them
VO: Do those Y mangers perform managerial activities as well?
Me: Yes, they manage their respective team. I will be overall governing the program.
VO: Are they technical resources?
Me: They are Techno-Functional.
VO: Ok. Will your family be accompanying you ?
Me: Yes, they will be
Then she started interviewing my wife
VO: What do you do for living?
Wife: At present I am a house wife. Earlier I used to work but quit my job after kidās birth.
VO : I can understand. What is your highest qualification?
Wife: I am a Civil Engineer, was working for an architect firm.
Asked me to scan my left hand, my wifeās right hand.
VO: I am approving your Visa, you receive your passport in a weekās time. Have a nice stay.
All of us : Thanks a lot. Have a nice day š.
Overall Interview went very smooth and VO was very friendly and made us feel comfortable from very first second. All questions were more like a discussion rather than interrogation.
I was carrying all original documents like Educational, Marriage, birth certificates, marriage phots but none of those were asked.
Few tips
ā¢ Be calm, confident and Prepared.
ā¢ Answer to the point in crisp layman terms. Donāt get into too much technical details unless you are asked for.
ā¢ Look professional, dress for the occasion. You are applying for a Managerial / Executive position, so look like one . I was wearing a blazer with formal wear.
On a lighter note, this was the first time in my adult life I wanted to look older. Many people have told I look lot younger and I didnāt want VO to doubt my experience based on my looks š.
Me along with wife and Kid (9yrs) appeared for the L1A interview in Chennai. We stayed in "The Park" hotel which is very close to both VAC and the consulate. Out appointment was on 23rd and 24th of May. Both days our appointments were scheduled earlier in the day. That helped us to escape from hot Chennai weather.
DAY 1 - VAC Center for Biometrics
We reached 30 mins earlier and immediately we were allowed inside. Inside, we were asked to be ready with DS-160 for each of the applicants along with the passport. In the first desk at reception, passport number in the application was verified. There they put stickers which had our name along with a barcode on our passports and attached sealed DS-160 to it with a rubber band.
Next we stood in the queue for BM. Wife and kid were sent to one counter and I was sent to different one. In counter basic questions were asked to confirm the identity and took the photographs and fingerprint scanning. Though we were carrying photograph of my Kid, it was not asked. There as no fingerprint scanning for him.
P.S: As per the center, mobile phones are allowed inside in switched off mode. But we left it at hotel just to be on safer side.
DAY 2 ā Consulate for Interview
Again we reached the venue 30 mins in advance, we were allowed inside after verifying our appointment letter and DS-160.
After first gate, bags and body were scanned. No electronics items are allowed, including car keys. One lady standing in front of us was sent out twice to throw sanitizer and moisturizer she was carrying. You have to go all the way out till first entry point to dispose it. Be careful about what you are carrying.
After initial security check we were sent to next room, where we were asked to arrange 2 sets of I-129S and I-797 along with Primary applicant DS-160. Also we were instructed to write the Name and Passport number behind the DD I was carrying for Fraud Protection fee. They verified the documents and made a bunch of it with rubber band and sent us to next building.
There were already few people standing in the queue, but the lady at the entrance asked us to skip the queue and directly enter inside.
Inside main building there were many counter where interviews were happening and waiting area was just in front of that. You could clearly hear the conversations of the interview. 2 separate lines were maintained for L1 and H1B. I was asked to go to Counter 32 to pay the Fraud Protection fee and family was waiting in the queue. My company had issued me a DD of INR 39k as per the exchange rate but 2 days before the appointment date, it was revised to 40k. I got a mail informing difference amount can be paid through the cash / card at the counter. But they were accepting only cash on that day.
After some time, we were sent near a counter and asked to wait in the queue. One medical student/Intern was being interviewed before me it went on for 10 mins and his visa was approved.
Next we were called, Conversation went like this.
Me: Good morning Madam, how are you?
VO : Very good morning, I am doing great. Letās see who we have here - with a Smile
Please handover your documents.
She started going through I129S and scan the documents.
VO: So you are here for L1B
Me: No Mam, its for L1A
VO: Oh yes, its mentioned over here. My bad.
How long you have been your petitioner ?
Me : 8+ years
VO: 8 Years? That a long time.
Please tell me about your roles and duties
Me: Explained about my project, Client, my role and team structure in couple of mins in pure layman terms.
VO: What will be your team size?
Me: XX
VO: All direct reports?
Me: No, only Y , they will be my LOB managers and other will report to them
VO: Do those Y mangers perform managerial activities as well?
Me: Yes, they manage their respective team. I will be overall governing the program.
VO: Are they technical resources?
Me: They are Techno-Functional.
VO: Ok. Will your family be accompanying you ?
Me: Yes, they will be
Then she started interviewing my wife
VO: What do you do for living?
Wife: At present I am a house wife. Earlier I used to work but quit my job after kidās birth.
VO : I can understand. What is your highest qualification?
Wife: I am a Civil Engineer, was working for an architect firm.
Asked me to scan my left hand, my wifeās right hand.
VO: I am approving your Visa, you receive your passport in a weekās time. Have a nice stay.
All of us : Thanks a lot. Have a nice day š.
Overall Interview went very smooth and VO was very friendly and made us feel comfortable from very first second. All questions were more like a discussion rather than interrogation.
I was carrying all original documents like Educational, Marriage, birth certificates, marriage phots but none of those were asked.
Few tips
ā¢ Be calm, confident and Prepared.
ā¢ Answer to the point in crisp layman terms. Donāt get into too much technical details unless you are asked for.
ā¢ Look professional, dress for the occasion. You are applying for a Managerial / Executive position, so look like one . I was wearing a blazer with formal wear.
On a lighter note, this was the first time in my adult life I wanted to look older. Many people have told I look lot younger and I didnāt want VO to doubt my experience based on my looks š.
All Replies (6)
Info on dropbox
I am a Canadian citizen applying for L1A visa. I still have a valid B1/B1 visa on my cancelled Indian passport. Am I eligible for dropbox?
All Replies (0)
L1-B Blanket Visa Approved - US Embassy, London
Below are the details of my visa experience:
My appointment was scheduled for 8:30am at the US Embassy in London, located close to Nine Elms tube station. I arrived to the embassy at around 7:45am and joined a long queue outside. The queue moved quickly and within 10 minutes I reached the security checkpoint. I was asked for my passport and DS-160 confirmation page. After a quick check of these documents, I was directed inside the security screening building. I passed through the metal detector and was asked to make my way across the courtyard to the main embassy building. Inside, my DS-160 confirmation page was checked again and I was issued with a number. I then made my way to the lifts and up to the first floor marked āVisa Servicesā. Once there, I took a seat and watched the screen for my number to be called. Once called, I went to the window number stated on the screen and passed the officer two copies of my I-129S along with my passport. The officer checked these over, slipped them into a plastic folder and passed them back to me. My fingerprints were then scanned and finally I was asked to make my way to another window to pay the āFraud Preventionā fee. This was for $500 and I paid using a credit card. Next I returned to the waiting area and watched the screen for my number (the same number as before) to be called again. After about 20 minutes my number was displayed and I went to the window indicated. I had to wait while another interview was being concluded and then the officer called me forward. The interview went like this:
VO: Good morning! How are you? (very friendly)
Me: Good morning! Iām well thank you. How are you?
VO: Good thank you. Please may I see your documents.
(I handed her my documents pack).
VO: So I see this is your first time applying for an L visa?
Me: Yes thatās correct.
VO: Ok. Please can you tell me about the company you work for:
Me: I work for XXX. We do XXXX
VO: And what role do you do?
Me: Explained my role and the unique specialised skill set I have
VO: How long have you worked there?
Me: 4 years, 5 months (be exact with this)
VO: Tell me a little more about the role you do
Me: Went into further detail about what I do and the tools I use.
VO: Ok, thank you.
(VO then began typing and then stamped my I-129S)
VO: Ok ā your visa has been approved and you will receive your documentation within a week. Enjoy your stay in the US!
Me: Thank you very much! Take care.
I then headed back to the lifts and exited the building.
Overall the process was efficient, easy and very professional. My main tips are:
- Be calm, confident, smile, and maintain eye contact with the VO.
- If you fumble your works, stop and calmly start again
- Wear a suit. I honestly saw someone go for his interview wearing a Grateful Dead baseball cap. Ridiculous.
- Be prepared. Have all your documents ready and bring $500 in case your credit card doesnt work.
Good luck!
My appointment was scheduled for 8:30am at the US Embassy in London, located close to Nine Elms tube station. I arrived to the embassy at around 7:45am and joined a long queue outside. The queue moved quickly and within 10 minutes I reached the security checkpoint. I was asked for my passport and DS-160 confirmation page. After a quick check of these documents, I was directed inside the security screening building. I passed through the metal detector and was asked to make my way across the courtyard to the main embassy building. Inside, my DS-160 confirmation page was checked again and I was issued with a number. I then made my way to the lifts and up to the first floor marked āVisa Servicesā. Once there, I took a seat and watched the screen for my number to be called. Once called, I went to the window number stated on the screen and passed the officer two copies of my I-129S along with my passport. The officer checked these over, slipped them into a plastic folder and passed them back to me. My fingerprints were then scanned and finally I was asked to make my way to another window to pay the āFraud Preventionā fee. This was for $500 and I paid using a credit card. Next I returned to the waiting area and watched the screen for my number (the same number as before) to be called again. After about 20 minutes my number was displayed and I went to the window indicated. I had to wait while another interview was being concluded and then the officer called me forward. The interview went like this:
VO: Good morning! How are you? (very friendly)
Me: Good morning! Iām well thank you. How are you?
VO: Good thank you. Please may I see your documents.
(I handed her my documents pack).
VO: So I see this is your first time applying for an L visa?
Me: Yes thatās correct.
VO: Ok. Please can you tell me about the company you work for:
Me: I work for XXX. We do XXXX
VO: And what role do you do?
Me: Explained my role and the unique specialised skill set I have
VO: How long have you worked there?
Me: 4 years, 5 months (be exact with this)
VO: Tell me a little more about the role you do
Me: Went into further detail about what I do and the tools I use.
VO: Ok, thank you.
(VO then began typing and then stamped my I-129S)
VO: Ok ā your visa has been approved and you will receive your documentation within a week. Enjoy your stay in the US!
Me: Thank you very much! Take care.
I then headed back to the lifts and exited the building.
Overall the process was efficient, easy and very professional. My main tips are:
- Be calm, confident, smile, and maintain eye contact with the VO.
- If you fumble your works, stop and calmly start again
- Wear a suit. I honestly saw someone go for his interview wearing a Grateful Dead baseball cap. Ridiculous.
- Be prepared. Have all your documents ready and bring $500 in case your credit card doesnt work.
Good luck!
All Replies (0)
L1 Blanket Visa at Chennai, India
I recently appeared for L1 blanket visa interview in May, 2022.
Overall process was very smooth and everyone at the embassy was very helpful.
Adding my experience for reference.
We passed through many security points before going inside.
At the reception, they asked us to separate 2 sets of I-129s and I-797, primary applicantās passport and DS-160.
They made a bunch of it and stamped a small paper to it and asked us to move forward.
Then we went inside a hall where one counter was for payment and rest counters were for interview.
After waiting for some time, I was asked to go alone and make payment.
The person at the counter attached a receipt to the documents and told me to go back to waiting area.
After few minutes, we were asked to wait behind a candidate whose interview was going on.
We waited at the counter for around 5 minutes while the previous candidate was getting interviewed.
Then our turn came and we greeted the VO and she greeted us back.
She told me to stand near the micro-phone side.
VO: So, XXXX Company?
Me: Yes
VO: Tell me about the products of XXXX.
Me: XXXX offers products related to ......., etc.
VO: So XXXX manufactures medical devices?
Me: No, they do not produce medical devices but measuring devices like transmitters, meters, control valves, etc.
VO: Which industries use these products?
Me: Process industries like oil and gas, paper and pulp, food and beverages, pharma, marine, etc.
VO: Are these devices used in manufacturing plants?
Me: Yes, they are.
VO: Do you use any tools in daily activities?
Me: Yes, I use our .... tool to generate documents from configured code.
VO: What will be your salary?
Me: ā¦. USD annually.
VO: When did you get married?
Me: I answered the date.
VO: Tell me any 3 things about your marriage or relationship?
Me: I told her about our marriage date, engagement date, it was an arranged marriage and where was our first trip after marriage.
She asked me to scan my left hand fingers.
To my husband:
VO: So you work for YYYY?
Husband: Yes
VO: Are you a software engineer?
Husband: No, I am a ā¦.
She asked him to scan right hand fingers.
VO: I am approving your visa. You should receive your passports in a weekās time.
Overall process was very smooth and everyone at the embassy was very helpful.
Adding my experience for reference.
We passed through many security points before going inside.
At the reception, they asked us to separate 2 sets of I-129s and I-797, primary applicantās passport and DS-160.
They made a bunch of it and stamped a small paper to it and asked us to move forward.
Then we went inside a hall where one counter was for payment and rest counters were for interview.
After waiting for some time, I was asked to go alone and make payment.
The person at the counter attached a receipt to the documents and told me to go back to waiting area.
After few minutes, we were asked to wait behind a candidate whose interview was going on.
We waited at the counter for around 5 minutes while the previous candidate was getting interviewed.
Then our turn came and we greeted the VO and she greeted us back.
She told me to stand near the micro-phone side.
VO: So, XXXX Company?
Me: Yes
VO: Tell me about the products of XXXX.
Me: XXXX offers products related to ......., etc.
VO: So XXXX manufactures medical devices?
Me: No, they do not produce medical devices but measuring devices like transmitters, meters, control valves, etc.
VO: Which industries use these products?
Me: Process industries like oil and gas, paper and pulp, food and beverages, pharma, marine, etc.
VO: Are these devices used in manufacturing plants?
Me: Yes, they are.
VO: Do you use any tools in daily activities?
Me: Yes, I use our .... tool to generate documents from configured code.
VO: What will be your salary?
Me: ā¦. USD annually.
VO: When did you get married?
Me: I answered the date.
VO: Tell me any 3 things about your marriage or relationship?
Me: I told her about our marriage date, engagement date, it was an arranged marriage and where was our first trip after marriage.
She asked me to scan my left hand fingers.
To my husband:
VO: So you work for YYYY?
Husband: Yes
VO: Are you a software engineer?
Husband: No, I am a ā¦.
She asked him to scan right hand fingers.
VO: I am approving your visa. You should receive your passports in a weekās time.
All Replies (0)
L1B Individual RFE approved. waiting for appointment.
Hi all can you please suggest me or guide how I have to get ready for L1B Individual Visa interview.
I have over all 13.5 years.
L1B Blanket rejected 2017.
Now I'm applying for L1B Individual. 10 years in same company & relevant 10 years experience in same project with all preparatory tools. What are all the possibility in interview. Can you please guide me. Really Immihelp helped a lot , nearly 178 pages I read out.
I have over all 13.5 years.
L1B Blanket rejected 2017.
Now I'm applying for L1B Individual. 10 years in same company & relevant 10 years experience in same project with all preparatory tools. What are all the possibility in interview. Can you please guide me. Really Immihelp helped a lot , nearly 178 pages I read out.
All Replies (0)
L1A Functional Manager Approved in Chennai
First, I would like to thank the immihelp community members for posting all their previous experiences. It really helped a lot š
Here is my visa interview experience. The interview lasted for about 8 minutes including exchanging of pleasantries, talking about our university, fingerprint work and the actual questions.
Officer: Hello, Good morning, how is it going? (with a pleasant smile)
Officer: Please hand over your documents
Me: Here you go sir!
Officer: So, you work with XXX company?
Me: Yes sir!
Officer: Is your family here with you today?
Me: Yes sir, they are behind me in the sitting area. Do you want them to come here?
Office: Not required now, may be towards the end for fingerprints.
Me: OK sir
Officer: Where will you work in the USA?
Me: XXX
Officer: Oh ok, close to XXX right?
Me: Yes, sir.
Officer: Have you worked in the USA before?
Me: Yes sir! I was on a H1B.
Office: The same company sponsored your H1B?
Me: Yes sir!
Officer: When were you on H1B?
Me: From 2013 to 2017 sir
Officer: Where did you go to school?
Me: XXX university.
Officer: Oh wow, I went to the same school too (with a smile)
Me: Great sir! š
We then discussed a few things about the university and the professors.
Officer: Where will you work in the USA? (Repeated the previous question but looks like it was since he forgotten the question was already asked before)
Me: XXX
Officer: How long have you been with your company?
Me: 8.5 years (This was a tricky question for me since I had a 1 year break in between that could have confused the officer. But I went with my attorneyās advice of mentioning the overall experience unless they ask āHow long have you been with the current roleā)
Officer: What you will be your title?
Me: XXX
Officer: You are applying for an L1A; Will people report to you?
Me: No, sir. I will be a functional manager for the product xxx
Officer: (In a very friendly tone) So, you know that L1A has very specific managerial or executive requirements, right?
Me: Yes, sir.
Officer: What are your qualifications that make you qualify for this?
Me: I work as a functional manager for product xxx and I will be xxx (my role). I will be accountable for all aspects ā¦.. (Spoke about the discretionary authority/importance of the role for about 30 seconds)
Officer: What will be the budget that you will manage?
Me: Mentioned the revenue impact of my product line. (it was a sizeable number)
Officer: How many years of managerial experience do you have? (At this point, he had already hit a stamp on my I-129s))
Me: More than 13 years
Office: Got it!
Officer: Could you place your left four fingers?
Me: Done
Officer: Please call your wife and have her place her left four fingers
Done
Officer: OK, your visa is approved, you will have your passport in a weekās time. Please carry the approved I-129s as they ask for it at the port of entry. Have a nice stay at the USA
Me: Thank you sir!
I got a green slip of visa approval and an attested copy of I-129s with a stamp and circled on L1A with a visa validity end date.
Overall, the officer had a very pleasant demeanor.
Tips for the interview
1. Keep your answers crisp.
2. Keep eye contact.
3. Show that you are confident of your case. I prepared a lot to keep the answers brief so that I would not stutter during the interview. Some of the immihelp friendās guidance helped me prepare for this.
Other details
Dress code
Formal wear for the Biometric.
Blazer and formal wear for the interview. I noticed that most of the L1A folks had a Blazer on.
Biometrics
This is a very straightforward exercise. Just go with your appointment letter, DS160 confirmation pages and original passports. If you have a dependent who is below 14 years, pls take 2 photographs (per specification). The photo will be scanned.
They take your fingerprints, photos and give you a stamped DS160 confirmation. Please ensure you retain this as they ask for the stamped DS160 at the Consular Visa center during your interview appointment.
Visa interview logistics
My appointment was at 10 AM but I was there at 9.25 AM. I had my 3-year old Daughter with me and asked if I can jump the queue. But it looked like there were many other toddlers and kids. There was not the usual crowd that you would see at a US embassy
ā¢ They ask for your passports and DS160 right at the gate.
ā¢ You will be asked to clear the security line (Empty pockets etc. Belt/Shoe can be on) ā Make sure you donāt carry any electronic devices, not even in switch off mode, not even car keys.
ā¢ You will enter a building where a person sitting ther directs you to assemble documents- Passports, 2 copies of I-129s, 2 copies of I-797, Attested DS-160 of the principal applicant, Demand Draft for Fraud fee; If you donāt have the DD, carry cash or credit card for paying the fraud fee.
ā¢ You will be asked to sit in a separate queue and then you go to the main building with a separate queue for L1 blanket
ā¢ Pay the fraud fee, and again wait in the queue (L1 blanket had separate queue).
ā¢ Then you are directed to the visa officer for the interview.
If you have questions, please reach out to me. Will be happy to give back to this community!
Here is my visa interview experience. The interview lasted for about 8 minutes including exchanging of pleasantries, talking about our university, fingerprint work and the actual questions.
Officer: Hello, Good morning, how is it going? (with a pleasant smile)
Officer: Please hand over your documents
Me: Here you go sir!
Officer: So, you work with XXX company?
Me: Yes sir!
Officer: Is your family here with you today?
Me: Yes sir, they are behind me in the sitting area. Do you want them to come here?
Office: Not required now, may be towards the end for fingerprints.
Me: OK sir
Officer: Where will you work in the USA?
Me: XXX
Officer: Oh ok, close to XXX right?
Me: Yes, sir.
Officer: Have you worked in the USA before?
Me: Yes sir! I was on a H1B.
Office: The same company sponsored your H1B?
Me: Yes sir!
Officer: When were you on H1B?
Me: From 2013 to 2017 sir
Officer: Where did you go to school?
Me: XXX university.
Officer: Oh wow, I went to the same school too (with a smile)
Me: Great sir! š
We then discussed a few things about the university and the professors.
Officer: Where will you work in the USA? (Repeated the previous question but looks like it was since he forgotten the question was already asked before)
Me: XXX
Officer: How long have you been with your company?
Me: 8.5 years (This was a tricky question for me since I had a 1 year break in between that could have confused the officer. But I went with my attorneyās advice of mentioning the overall experience unless they ask āHow long have you been with the current roleā)
Officer: What you will be your title?
Me: XXX
Officer: You are applying for an L1A; Will people report to you?
Me: No, sir. I will be a functional manager for the product xxx
Officer: (In a very friendly tone) So, you know that L1A has very specific managerial or executive requirements, right?
Me: Yes, sir.
Officer: What are your qualifications that make you qualify for this?
Me: I work as a functional manager for product xxx and I will be xxx (my role). I will be accountable for all aspects ā¦.. (Spoke about the discretionary authority/importance of the role for about 30 seconds)
Officer: What will be the budget that you will manage?
Me: Mentioned the revenue impact of my product line. (it was a sizeable number)
Officer: How many years of managerial experience do you have? (At this point, he had already hit a stamp on my I-129s))
Me: More than 13 years
Office: Got it!
Officer: Could you place your left four fingers?
Me: Done
Officer: Please call your wife and have her place her left four fingers
Done
Officer: OK, your visa is approved, you will have your passport in a weekās time. Please carry the approved I-129s as they ask for it at the port of entry. Have a nice stay at the USA
Me: Thank you sir!
I got a green slip of visa approval and an attested copy of I-129s with a stamp and circled on L1A with a visa validity end date.
Overall, the officer had a very pleasant demeanor.
Tips for the interview
1. Keep your answers crisp.
2. Keep eye contact.
3. Show that you are confident of your case. I prepared a lot to keep the answers brief so that I would not stutter during the interview. Some of the immihelp friendās guidance helped me prepare for this.
Other details
Dress code
Formal wear for the Biometric.
Blazer and formal wear for the interview. I noticed that most of the L1A folks had a Blazer on.
Biometrics
This is a very straightforward exercise. Just go with your appointment letter, DS160 confirmation pages and original passports. If you have a dependent who is below 14 years, pls take 2 photographs (per specification). The photo will be scanned.
They take your fingerprints, photos and give you a stamped DS160 confirmation. Please ensure you retain this as they ask for the stamped DS160 at the Consular Visa center during your interview appointment.
Visa interview logistics
My appointment was at 10 AM but I was there at 9.25 AM. I had my 3-year old Daughter with me and asked if I can jump the queue. But it looked like there were many other toddlers and kids. There was not the usual crowd that you would see at a US embassy
ā¢ They ask for your passports and DS160 right at the gate.
ā¢ You will be asked to clear the security line (Empty pockets etc. Belt/Shoe can be on) ā Make sure you donāt carry any electronic devices, not even in switch off mode, not even car keys.
ā¢ You will enter a building where a person sitting ther directs you to assemble documents- Passports, 2 copies of I-129s, 2 copies of I-797, Attested DS-160 of the principal applicant, Demand Draft for Fraud fee; If you donāt have the DD, carry cash or credit card for paying the fraud fee.
ā¢ You will be asked to sit in a separate queue and then you go to the main building with a separate queue for L1 blanket
ā¢ Pay the fraud fee, and again wait in the queue (L1 blanket had separate queue).
ā¢ Then you are directed to the visa officer for the interview.
If you have questions, please reach out to me. Will be happy to give back to this community!
All Replies (10)
L1B Blanket rejected
Hi,
My L1B blanket rejected recently. I mentioned few general technologies like Java along with my special knowledge. If I avoid this and apply again will I be able to get approval next time? Please help
My L1B blanket rejected recently. I mentioned few general technologies like Java along with my special knowledge. If I avoid this and apply again will I be able to get approval next time? Please help
All Replies (10)
L1A Blanket Approved Chennai
I went as a new applicant for L1A BLANKET VISA.
Attire: Formal would suffice, but blazer will help to provide a good impression. I have chosen blazer.
At entrance: they will check the timings and your passport. Reach the consulate atleast 30 min before your scheduled appointment.
After entering: one person asks you to set your documents as per the requirement.
2 I129s, 1 797, Ds160 attested(biometric), DD, Passport.
Once this is done you will be asked to go inside another building.
There will be separate lines.. and first thing for L1 candidate will be payment of fraud fee.
Then they will ask to follow a que for interview
Once you reach the window of officer:
Wish him
My experience:
Me: Good mrng sir
Officer: Good mrng, can you provide me the documents
Me: Given the documents
Officer: can u put your fingers on biometric
Me: done
Officer: which visa are you applying for
Me: L1A
officer: which company
Me: xxx
Officer: okay what is your role
Me: I am functional manager for a product which is in build company product
Officer: okay what is the product name
Me: provided details about the product in a brief
Officer : verified the product in the system and clarified the product
Officer: how many members are you managing
Me: 12 here and 6 approved in US
Officer: what is your salary
Me: xx k
Officer: Location
Me: provided location details
Okay your visa is approved. Before stamping he asked me again which visa L1 A or B. I told him L1 A. He circled L1A.
Done with interview
All the best for everyone
Attire: Formal would suffice, but blazer will help to provide a good impression. I have chosen blazer.
At entrance: they will check the timings and your passport. Reach the consulate atleast 30 min before your scheduled appointment.
After entering: one person asks you to set your documents as per the requirement.
2 I129s, 1 797, Ds160 attested(biometric), DD, Passport.
Once this is done you will be asked to go inside another building.
There will be separate lines.. and first thing for L1 candidate will be payment of fraud fee.
Then they will ask to follow a que for interview
Once you reach the window of officer:
Wish him
My experience:
Me: Good mrng sir
Officer: Good mrng, can you provide me the documents
Me: Given the documents
Officer: can u put your fingers on biometric
Me: done
Officer: which visa are you applying for
Me: L1A
officer: which company
Me: xxx
Officer: okay what is your role
Me: I am functional manager for a product which is in build company product
Officer: okay what is the product name
Me: provided details about the product in a brief
Officer : verified the product in the system and clarified the product
Officer: how many members are you managing
Me: 12 here and 6 approved in US
Officer: what is your salary
Me: xx k
Officer: Location
Me: provided location details
Okay your visa is approved. Before stamping he asked me again which visa L1 A or B. I told him L1 A. He circled L1A.
Done with interview
All the best for everyone
All Replies (1)
LIA Blanket - Chennai - I129S approved but
I went through the visa interview and the officer stamped on I-129S as L1A and also provided dates for 3 years and mentioned visa is approved and I will be getting the passport within a week.
But he also mentioned that he will have to check with his supervisor if it would be an L1A or L1B? I am not sure what it means.
Appointment - 6th April 11AM
He asked me a standard set of questions
VO - Company name
Me - XXX
VO - Which type of visa
Me - L1A
VO - How long with the company?
Me - 9 + years
VO - How many years of managerial experience?
Me - 5 years
VO - Do you manage people?
Me- I mentioned I manage people as well as projects
VO - Have you been earlier on L1 or any other visa?
Me - I Mentioned all my previous visas (B1, H1B, and F1) (Note: All more than 9 years back)
VO - What is your highest education
Me - I replied
VO - Which location you will be going to?
Me - I answered
VO - Where is it located exactly?
Me - I explained it to him.
VO - How many people are you managing?
Me - I told him my current reports (8) and my future role (11)
VO - He again asked me what would be doing other than people management?
Me - I mentioned the project management part as well.
VO - I am approving your visa as requested as L1A and you will get your passports within a week. Although I have to check with my supervisor if you would qualify for L1A or L1B. He then gave me 1 stamped copy of the I-129S form with L1A circled and the dates as well and kept my passport.
It's been 3 business days since the interview. My status on the website still shows "Administrative processing".
Any pointers would be of great help.
But he also mentioned that he will have to check with his supervisor if it would be an L1A or L1B? I am not sure what it means.
Appointment - 6th April 11AM
He asked me a standard set of questions
VO - Company name
Me - XXX
VO - Which type of visa
Me - L1A
VO - How long with the company?
Me - 9 + years
VO - How many years of managerial experience?
Me - 5 years
VO - Do you manage people?
Me- I mentioned I manage people as well as projects
VO - Have you been earlier on L1 or any other visa?
Me - I Mentioned all my previous visas (B1, H1B, and F1) (Note: All more than 9 years back)
VO - What is your highest education
Me - I replied
VO - Which location you will be going to?
Me - I answered
VO - Where is it located exactly?
Me - I explained it to him.
VO - How many people are you managing?
Me - I told him my current reports (8) and my future role (11)
VO - He again asked me what would be doing other than people management?
Me - I mentioned the project management part as well.
VO - I am approving your visa as requested as L1A and you will get your passports within a week. Although I have to check with my supervisor if you would qualify for L1A or L1B. He then gave me 1 stamped copy of the I-129S form with L1A circled and the dates as well and kept my passport.
It's been 3 business days since the interview. My status on the website still shows "Administrative processing".
Any pointers would be of great help.
All Replies (3)
L1 Blanket - Chennai - Approved
Appointment - 5th April 2022 ; 10 AM
VO ā Good Morning
Me ā Good Morning Officer , How are you ?
VO : Doing good , thanks !
VO ā Name
Me ā ABCD
VO ā So you are working with XYZ Company
Me ā Yes , Officer, I've been working with XYZ company for 3 years as a Manager AAA & have an expertise in XYZ domain . Currently managing a team and leading an engagement for the client.
VO : Did you join XYZ company as a manager
Me ā Yes, I have overall 15 years of experience and 8.5 years as a Manager
VO : Where were you working before XYZ company ?
Me ā ABC Company as a Manager as well ( with brief details about the company & my role )
VO : How did XYZ company hire you ? Were you looking for a job or did they reach out ?
Me : They approached me via Linked and hired me
VO : So they made an offer you couldnāt refuse haan ? ( Chuckles )
Me : Haha yes true
VO : Do you have any direct reports ?
Me : yes 11 Direct , 6 indirect reports & I'm responsible for hiring and performance management of my direct reports.
VO : Okay 11 direct reports ( looks at me for few seconds )
Me : yes Officer & I have budget to hire 5 more consultants once in US
VO : What is your Salary in the US
Me : XX K
VO : Married ?
Me : Yes
VO : Why is your wife not here for the interview ?
Me : She is already in US working on non-immigrant visa
VO : Same Employer as yours ?
Me : No , Different Employer
VO : Where is she in the US
ME : XYZ State
VO : Oh are you going to the same place ( Looks at the application )
ME : No , She is in X state and I will be travelling to Y State and since we have work commitments with our respective employers we are planning to meet during Holidays
VO : Okay, At Least you will be in the same country ( Smiles ) , Will you be able to move to X state where your wife is working ?
Me : No , I have to work only from the Y state as per my current Project and will not be able to move as of now.
VO : What about your wife ? Can she move you wherever you are working ?
Me : She currently can't move since she also has her work commitments , but can try that once she is done with her project
VO : Okay, At Least you have direct Flights from X to Y state ( Smiles )
Me : Yes. Thatās good
VO : Your Visa is approved , Safe travels !
Me : Thank you , have a good day !
Attire - Blazer ( I think it makes a difference at least for L1A )
Duration - I entered the Embassy by 9:30 AM and was out by 10:20 AM
VO ā Good Morning
Me ā Good Morning Officer , How are you ?
VO : Doing good , thanks !
VO ā Name
Me ā ABCD
VO ā So you are working with XYZ Company
Me ā Yes , Officer, I've been working with XYZ company for 3 years as a Manager AAA & have an expertise in XYZ domain . Currently managing a team and leading an engagement for the client.
VO : Did you join XYZ company as a manager
Me ā Yes, I have overall 15 years of experience and 8.5 years as a Manager
VO : Where were you working before XYZ company ?
Me ā ABC Company as a Manager as well ( with brief details about the company & my role )
VO : How did XYZ company hire you ? Were you looking for a job or did they reach out ?
Me : They approached me via Linked and hired me
VO : So they made an offer you couldnāt refuse haan ? ( Chuckles )
Me : Haha yes true
VO : Do you have any direct reports ?
Me : yes 11 Direct , 6 indirect reports & I'm responsible for hiring and performance management of my direct reports.
VO : Okay 11 direct reports ( looks at me for few seconds )
Me : yes Officer & I have budget to hire 5 more consultants once in US
VO : What is your Salary in the US
Me : XX K
VO : Married ?
Me : Yes
VO : Why is your wife not here for the interview ?
Me : She is already in US working on non-immigrant visa
VO : Same Employer as yours ?
Me : No , Different Employer
VO : Where is she in the US
ME : XYZ State
VO : Oh are you going to the same place ( Looks at the application )
ME : No , She is in X state and I will be travelling to Y State and since we have work commitments with our respective employers we are planning to meet during Holidays
VO : Okay, At Least you will be in the same country ( Smiles ) , Will you be able to move to X state where your wife is working ?
Me : No , I have to work only from the Y state as per my current Project and will not be able to move as of now.
VO : What about your wife ? Can she move you wherever you are working ?
Me : She currently can't move since she also has her work commitments , but can try that once she is done with her project
VO : Okay, At Least you have direct Flights from X to Y state ( Smiles )
Me : Yes. Thatās good
VO : Your Visa is approved , Safe travels !
Me : Thank you , have a good day !
Attire - Blazer ( I think it makes a difference at least for L1A )
Duration - I entered the Embassy by 9:30 AM and was out by 10:20 AM
All Replies (1)
Disclaimer: Please note that the experiences presented are submitted by visitors to our website. Individualsā experiences may vary, and you should interpret each individualās experience at your own risk. Do not make a decision solely based on an experience posted here. We do not endorse any individualsā experiences, and we are not liable or responsible for consequences stemming from your use of the information presented within any individualās experience.
