hello all!!
I am counting down the days until October 1 as I am fortunate enough that my CN will be current on that date!
I have a question to ask of you all and also some information to share (from my experience so far):
Question #1: as most of us, the majority of my documents had to be translated into English. I was told that it is sufficient to have the documents translated and have a certification placed at the bottom of each page that reads:
I, (translator name), certify that I am fluent in the English and I(other language) languages, and that the above document is a true and accurate translation of the document attached entitled: Birth certificate (front page)
Date:
Signature:
(name of translator)
(address of translator)
Is this enough? Does the certification need to be notarized? I’ve heard yes and I’ve heard no.
What I learned #1: there are a lot of posts here in this thread about whether one should or should not send back both DSP 122 and DS 230 if one is going AOS. At the time I did not know about this wonderful website and therefore I sent both back to KCC (indicating however that I intended to go through AOS because I am currently in the U.S. on an H1B that expires in 2010.)
Although I sent back both, KCC knew that I was going to go with AOS and not CP and in fact, I received my second letter during the summer indicating that I would deal with USCIS from now on forward. So here is what I learned: do not worry if you sent both back! The people at KCC are very helpful and they will not get confused if you indicate USCIS or BCIS in DSP 122.
What I learned #2: I was going crazy for days trying to get my immunization records for purposes of the medical exam (calling my mom, my old school, my pediatrician from childhood etc.) Don’t worry! I spoke to the USCIS civil surgeon who will administer my medical later this week and all your immunizations will show up through the bloodwork test that you have to submit to anyway. So here is what I learned: if you have your immunization records, good- they will make the process easier but do not despair- the lab who processes the blood will be able to know what vaccinations you did (and which you did not do!)
What I learned #3: Send the DV fee of $375 to the Department of State earlier rather than later. I sent it this summer by certified mail (so I knew they’d received it) and got the receipt that it was paid almost within a week. So here is what I learned: Given that this receipt is a prerequisite to the interview, get it out of the way and pay it so that when the time comes for the interview, you will have it ready.
Finally: a MAJOR tip. Please please please make copies of everything that comes your way and that you send out for purposes of your greencard. I bought one of those accordion style folders with the sections at Staples and have kept copies of everything that I sent and everything I received. That way, should the need arise, you can immediately pull the required document just by accessing the proper tab.
BEST OF LUCK TO ALL!!!
