I just want to share my interview experience at the Santa Ana Field Office.
My interview was scheduled for 8 AM. We arrived early at 7:30 AM, entered the building, passed through security, and approached the check-in window. They asked for our interview notices and IDs. We were the first ones in the large room. At 8 AM, an Asian woman, very calm and professional, came and escorted us to her office.
We started with the oath, and then she began asking questions. She inquired about our marriage, how we met, and I provided detailed answers with the timeline. Then she went through my personal details: legal name, date of birth, job, and address. She also asked about criminal records, but didn't read directly from the form, instead using her own words. We answered "No" to everything.
Next, she requested original documents such as diplomas, proof of payment to KCC, our joint accounts, and other data. Everything went smoothly; although she seemed calm, I felt she wasn't very confident or comfortable handling DV cases. However, everything proceeded as expected based on the experiences shared by other forum members.
Overall, everything went well.
However, I was notified that my background check has not been completed, and my case has been put on hold until they receive the background check results.
I tried to ask her questions and encourage her to expedite the check, but she declined. I see two reasons for this:
- My specialization could be treated as a TAL, which requires administrative processing. For all my previous visas, I underwent administrative processing at the consulate.
- I have lived in three countries over the past two years—Russia and the Middle East. This might pose an issue for them. However, she informed me that it's only my background check that's currently in progress. Interestingly, my wife, who has a similar background in terms of countries lived in but does not have a TAL specialization, passed without any issues.
I also tried to submit the documents—I had my tax records, updated I-693, and updated payslips—but she said she had everything she needed and declined my request to submit additional documents. So, I decided not to argue and just left.
I understand that all I can do now is wait and that there's no way to expedite or request assistance. I'll keep my fingers crossed and await any updates. Regardless of the final outcome, I truly appreciate the help from all active members of this forum. I'm amazed at the support freely provided here. Thank you all very much, and good luck to all the DV 2024 applicants!
