Hi Guys,
Thanks for the wishes.
We entered through SFO. Knew from this forum that there is a
separate line for new immigrants. The officer was busy with
someone, we were the 1st in line. Another office came and
got our signatures/finger prints on the forms. This other officer
was quite jovial and inquired why I decided to do CP, "much quicker"
I said. Officer in the booth stamped the passport valid for
one year told us where we need to go if we do not get the cards
before stamp expires. That was it..
At the consulate :
I carried USD cash. Had to fill the form with serial number and
denomination for each bill. (Save ~ 1000 Rs. in exchange rate).
While collecting papers the Indian lady asked if I have applied for
H1B extension (my H1 had expired), asked for approval notice. I had
the copy of receipt which she tool a look at and returned.
Asked for Passports, photos, BCs, Marriage certificate, offer of
employment, PCCs (from local Indian consulate only), Affidavit of support.
One of our BC was issued recently so I had also attached a School leaving
cert. To which the lady said "Good".
The interview was quick. 3-4 questions to me :
What is your job title?
- told job title.
Is that the exact job title?
- told exact job title.
How many employees at company?
How long working there?
And one to my wife :
how long are you married?.
Told the visas are granted and we could collect them at 3:30.
Went to the consulate at 3:15, there was queue already. But for some
reason they started issuing visas only at 4:10.
One thing : I had read on this forum not to go to a photographer and
try to teach him how to take immigration photographs. But I have to
learn everything myself. Went to a photographer and showed him the
printout showing the requirements for immigration photographs. Despite
having a Digital camera and photo printer the photos he gave did no
look acceptable so one day before interview went to "my own studio".
Man this guy is milking money. 250 Rs. each for instant photos!
Once again thanks everyone and best wishes for others in line for CP!