Successfull H1B Stamping for 10+ People at Vancouver

sapbpc

By sapbpc,
in H1B : Visa Stamp

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sapbpc Member

sapbpc

Posted
Posted

I would like to start off with expressing my sincere thanks to Murthy forums and all those who've contributed to forums by sharing their experiences. Keep sharing your experiences, it would certainly help future interviewees immensely. Off late, I started noticing a promising and consistent trend of increased H1B stamping success rate at Vancouver Consulate, which was very pleasant, to say the least, All these years while working on H1B, I could not muster the courage to go for H1B stamping because of a lurking fear of not knowing what the future may hold in store for me. But as somebody rightly said, perhaps there is a point in everybody's life when we have to make tough decisions despite having an insight that ensuing consequences may very well cease all your aspirations in the US. I earnestly believe that I was at a point when I was able and willing to take the plunge and subsequently I started looking for appointment dates at Vancouver location. I was fortunate that with minimal hassles of rescheduling interview, I was able to secure an appointment on a preferred date.

Few suggestions future interviewees may want to consider:

1) Get your documentation in order before you plan to schedule an appointment - it would be very favorable for you if your last 4 to 6 months paystubs show a consistent amount. Paystub related questions are quintessential in nature that most VO's ask perhaps at the beginning phase of every interview. Try not to give them a reason to further question you on your paystubs because that trail may further descend down to W2s, tax returns, previous employers, roles and what not.

2) Start preparing for interview - I understand nobody wants to envision anything going wrong during their interview but I would suggest that you would stand a very good chance if you start working on "weak areas" in your application first and be ready to answer questions which may not sound pleasant to your ears. I followed this mantra and it worked wonders for me.

3) Post a thread on Murthy forums - I posted an accommodation thread on Muthy forum 2 weeks before my interview date and you will be amazed to hear that by the time I reached Vancouver, I had already interacted with 8 wonderful and very friendly guys who had their interviews on the same day. Having known few familiar folks sailing on the same boat on a completely alien land certainly boosted my confidence. A day before our interview date, we all went on dinner, shared few light moments, did few mock interviews - which I believe helped everyone.immensely. During this exercise, we were able to secure better answers for some of the "weak" areas in our applications. Remember, people like me are generally too lazy to start a thread of their own and prefer responding to existing posts - if you do so, you may loose the chance of interacting with a majority of folks who have their interviews scheduled on the same day. The bottom line is that please post a thread on Murthy forum rather than responding to existing threads.

4) Hotel accommodation/rate - I observed a specific rate trend for Days Inn hotel on W Pender St which is nearest to the Consulate. There is absolutely no need to make reservation 1-2 months prior to your stipulated arrival date. Check out hotel rates 4-5 times a day ( in incognito mode so that system does not store cookies) and you will see atleast a 40% higher rates during peak hours. Lock in your rate during off hours. You may very well get the lowest rate even when you confirm your reservation mere a day before your arrival.

5) Credit cards - If you carry few hundred US dollars and have Master or Visa card(s), you will not encounter any issues as most of the merchants in Canada accept USD at 1:1 ratio.

A day before my interview, I met a very friendly guy I have been in touch with through Murthy forums. He was waiting for his passport pickup after successful interview at Vancouver Consulate (Krn). During our discussion on how to get through interview successfully, he reiterated that confidence is the key (I am sure we all have read it somewhere or the other) for cracking H1B stamping interview. Whatever you say during the interview, say it loud and clear - DO NOT MURMUR!. Visa Officer should get an impression that you are fully aware of everything you are saying and that you are saying it with utmost honesty ;). He also mentioned about an infamous lady VO at Counter 4 who allegedly gives 221g even when you respond to her questions convincingly enough.

On the day of interview, most of us (everybody except 1) had our interviews scheduled at 9:30 AM but we all started perhaps a little too early at around 8 AM from Days Inn hotel. We reached the Consulate at around 8:10 AM and were asked to stand in queue for the first preliminary security check. After preliminary security check was completed, the security personnel allowed 5-6 candidates at a time to go for a second round of thorough security check which takes place on 2nd floor. After the security check we were asked to submit our passport, I-797 for PIMS verification at the counter, given a token number and were asked to wait till our token number was called off on the screen. Once my token number was called off, I went to the same counter on 2nd floor to collect my passport and I-797. After PIMS verification, I was again asked to sit in the waiting lounge and watch for my token number on the screen. My token number was called in, say, 10 mins, followed by which I was escorted to the 20th floor in an elevator by a security personnel. On reaching 20th floor, I was asked to wait in the interview room where VOs actually conduct interviews. It's such a small room with only 4 counters for H1B stamping interviews that one can easily listen to VO's questions and applicants responses. Don't get anything on your nerves and stay calm and seated until your token number is called off for the final interview. To my dismay, I was called at counter 4 for the interview. I was aware that VO at counter 4 was known to give hard time to most of the candidates and had put everybody through higher scrutiny than other VOs - but I had no choice other than going to counter 4. On reaching counter 4, I greeted her with a smile on my face and said good morning. She must be in her late twenties or early thirties and not bad on eyes;). The first thing she asked me to do was to go through the the finger printing procedure. She asked me to put left/right fingers on the finger printing device followed by respective thumbs. To be honest, I had lost some fear by the time I was done with finger printing in the hopes that it was just a finger printing counter and that the actual interview counter may have changed which I was not aware of. It seemed destiny had something else in store for me that day, I was taken aback for a while when she asked who is your employer. A flash of light suddenly struck my mind that even though she may just be a fingerprinting lady and not the Visa Officer, I decided I should be respectful and polite to all Consulate personnels and was thinking that she may recommend my visa application to the actual visa officer if I behave nicely with her. Anyway, I responded back to her question and said that XXXX is my employer. She then asked how long have you worked for them? By this time, I was not willing to accept the reality that perhaps she was the same VO about whom I had not heard too many good things. But I maintained my calm and answered all her questions clear and loud:

Here are the questions I was asked during my interview:

Me: Good morning Officer. How are you doing today?

VO: Good morning

VO: Who is your employer?

Me: XXXX

VO: How long have you worked for them?

Me: XXXX months

VO: Is there an end client?

Me: Yes, YYYY

VO: What do they do?

Me: They provide services in the following areas: etc etc etc

VO: What do you do?

Me: I work as ABCD

VO: Did you do your Masters?

Me: I did my Masters in ZZZZ Engineering from University of ZZZZ.

VO: What was your major?

Me: ZZZZ

VO: What was your major in Bachelors?

Me: I did my bachelors in same discipline; ZZZZ

VO: How do you qualify for this job as its not related to your BS and MS?

Me: I've been working in the same field for XX years. Additionally I have had xx courses in computer science.

VO: Why did you switch to IT in first place? Were there no jobs in ZZZZ (my BS and MS major)?

Me: Again I gave her the same reason that the research I did in BS and MS were more on the CS side.

VO: Show me your LCA, I-129 and paystubs?

Me: I have her LCA, I-129 and last 6 months paystubs.

VO: She was typing something for about 2-3 minutes which made me feel little jittery. Finally came golden words from her mouth, I am approving your visa. You can pick your passport in 3-5 business days. She handed me a white paper with instructions on how to track the status of my application.

Me: Thanks Officer. Have a good weekend!

Bottom line is that be prepared with a thorough documentation and ready to answer unexpected questions on some of the "weak areas" in your application. 7 guys went to different counters and were able to get through their interviews successfully. Just BE CONFIDENT, PREPARE YOUR DOCUMENTATION WELL and TALK LOUD and CLEAR during your interview !! I am sure you will be able to crack the interview. Good luck guys!!!! Finally, I cant thank you enough for your support, you all made my stay in Vancouver memorable: Krn, Rghu, Prshnt, Rksh, S Vnch, UsKra, Hrsh, Srknt, Vplv. Today I heard from Srknt that 20+ desi's got their H1B approved and none of them got 221g - which is a remarkable figure in my view.

Documents I carried with me:

Documents an H1-B applicant needs to carry for Visa interview:

1. Passport and Passport copies of all pages

2. DS-160 confirmation page (Barcode printout)

3. Original Visa interview appointment letter

4. Employer agreement / Employment contract letter signed by you and Employer Company (Original) / Contract between candidate and petitioner

5. Offer letter from the current Employer

6. Pay stubs for the last 2 years

7. Experience letter from the previous jobs

8. Employer letter/ Employment Verification Letter

9. Client Letter – Make sure Client mention Petitioner’s name in the Letter

10. W2’s and Tax Returns (for the entire period of your stay in USA)

11. Bank statements for last 2 years highlighting Direct deposits

12. Updated Resume

13. I 20's (All Original)

14. OPT Cards

15. Work location pictures (not necessary)

16. Client ID/Badge, Employer ID/Badge

17. Timesheets/status reports

18. Client location photos (optional) (not necessary)

19. Two passport size photographs as per specification

20. Work Experience Certificates, reference letters, appreciation certificates from previous or current employer/s (from the start of your career)

21. All Original Academic Credentials along with mark sheets(MS, BTECH, INTER, 10th)

22. SSN card

23. Driver’s license

24. H1B data collection and filing fee exemption supplement

25. H classification supplement to form I129

26. H1B visa petition and supporting docs filed with USCIS

27. I-797 – Original

28. I-129 &H1B cover letter

29. Copy of LCA

30. Previous I-797A and LCA (If any)

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Reenak Advanced Member

Reenak

Posted
Posted

I am planning to go to Vancouver Canada for COS Visa Stamping from H4-H1B. I did not do any masters.. My highest qualification is Bachelors in Computers that is from India. I have 3 years of IT experience in Inida and 1+ years of IT experience in USA. Is it safe for me to go to Canada for my H1 stamping.

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VB2013 Newbie

VB2013

Posted
Posted

Hi SAPBC, First congratulations and second thanks for sharing your valuable experience.

Are you working for the same client for which you have your current I129 petition approved? If not, could you tell me if you had to do an H1 Amendment because of the client change?

I have booked for march12 in Vancouver but debating to go ahead or not as I have moved to a different client. The LCA is updated and not H1 not amended.

Were any of the folkes you met in Canada in this situation? Please let us know. Thanks in advance.

VB2013

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Hank_82 Advanced Member

Hank_82

Posted
Posted

I would like to start off with expressing my sincere thanks to Murthy forums and all those who've contributed to forums by sharing their experiences. Keep sharing your experiences, it would certainly help future interviewees immensely. Off late, I started noticing a promising and consistent trend of increased H1B stamping success rate at Vancouver Consulate, which was very pleasant, to say the least, All these years while working on H1B, I could not muster the courage to go for H1B stamping because of a lurking fear of not knowing what the future may hold in store for me. But as somebody rightly said, perhaps there is a point in everybody's life when we have to make tough decisions despite having an insight that ensuing consequences may very well cease all your aspirations in the US. I earnestly believe that I was at a point when I was able and willing to take the plunge and subsequently I started looking for appointment dates at Vancouver location. I was fortunate that with minimal hassles of rescheduling interview, I was able to secure an appointment on a preferred date.

Few suggestions future interviewees may want to consider:

1) Get your documentation in order before you plan to schedule an appointment - it would be very favorable for you if your last 4 to 6 months paystubs show a consistent amount. Paystub related questions are quintessential in nature that most VO's ask perhaps at the beginning phase of every interview. Try not to give them a reason to further question you on your paystubs because that trail may further descend down to W2s, tax returns, previous employers, roles and what not.

2) Start preparing for interview - I understand nobody wants to envision anything going wrong during their interview but I would suggest that you would stand a very good chance if you start working on "weak areas" in your application first and be ready to answer questions which may not sound pleasant to your ears. I followed this mantra and it worked wonders for me.

3) Post a thread on Murthy forums - I posted an accommodation thread on Muthy forum 2 weeks before my interview date and you will be amazed to hear that by the time I reached Vancouver, I had already interacted with 8 wonderful and very friendly guys who had their interviews on the same day. Having known few familiar folks sailing on the same boat on a completely alien land certainly boosted my confidence. A day before our interview date, we all went on dinner, shared few light moments, did few mock interviews - which I believe helped everyone.immensely. During this exercise, we were able to secure better answers for some of the "weak" areas in our applications. Remember, people like me are generally too lazy to start a thread of their own and prefer responding to existing posts - if you do so, you may loose the chance of interacting with a majority of folks who have their interviews scheduled on the same day. The bottom line is that please post a thread on Murthy forum rather than responding to existing threads.

4) Hotel accommodation/rate - I observed a specific rate trend for Days Inn hotel on W Pender St which is nearest to the Consulate. There is absolutely no need to make reservation 1-2 months prior to your stipulated arrival date. Check out hotel rates 4-5 times a day ( in incognito mode so that system does not store cookies) and you will see atleast a 40% higher rates during peak hours. Lock in your rate during off hours. You may very well get the lowest rate even when you confirm your reservation mere a day before your arrival.

5) Credit cards - If you carry few hundred US dollars and have Master or Visa card(s), you will not encounter any issues as most of the merchants in Canada accept USD at 1:1 ratio.

A day before my interview, I met a very friendly guy I have been in touch with through Murthy forums. He was waiting for his passport pickup after successful interview at Vancouver Consulate (Krn). During our discussion on how to get through interview successfully, he reiterated that confidence is the key (I am sure we all have read it somewhere or the other) for cracking H1B stamping interview. Whatever you say during the interview, say it loud and clear - DO NOT MURMUR!. Visa Officer should get an impression that you are fully aware of everything you are saying and that you are saying it with utmost honesty ;). He also mentioned about an infamous lady VO at Counter 4 who allegedly gives 221g even when you respond to her questions convincingly enough.

On the day of interview, most of us (everybody except 1) had our interviews scheduled at 9:30 AM but we all started perhaps a little too early at around 8 AM from Days Inn hotel. We reached the Consulate at around 8:10 AM and were asked to stand in queue for the first preliminary security check. After preliminary security check was completed, the security personnel allowed 5-6 candidates at a time to go for a second round of thorough security check which takes place on 2nd floor. After the security check we were asked to submit our passport, I-797 for PIMS verification at the counter, given a token number and were asked to wait till our token number was called off on the screen. Once my token number was called off, I went to the same counter on 2nd floor to collect my passport and I-797. After PIMS verification, I was again asked to sit in the waiting lounge and watch for my token number on the screen. My token number was called in, say, 10 mins, followed by which I was escorted to the 20th floor in an elevator by a security personnel. On reaching 20th floor, I was asked to wait in the interview room where VOs actually conduct interviews. It's such a small room with only 4 counters for H1B stamping interviews that one can easily listen to VO's questions and applicants responses. Don't get anything on your nerves and stay calm and seated until your token number is called off for the final interview. To my dismay, I was called at counter 4 for the interview. I was aware that VO at counter 4 was known to give hard time to most of the candidates and had put everybody through higher scrutiny than other VOs - but I had no choice other than going to counter 4. On reaching counter 4, I greeted her with a smile on my face and said good morning. She must be in her late twenties or early thirties and not bad on eyes;). The first thing she asked me to do was to go through the the finger printing procedure. She asked me to put left/right fingers on the finger printing device followed by respective thumbs. To be honest, I had lost some fear by the time I was done with finger printing in the hopes that it was just a finger printing counter and that the actual interview counter may have changed which I was not aware of. It seemed destiny had something else in store for me that day, I was taken aback for a while when she asked who is your employer. A flash of light suddenly struck my mind that even though she may just be a fingerprinting lady and not the Visa Officer, I decided I should be respectful and polite to all Consulate personnels and was thinking that she may recommend my visa application to the actual visa officer if I behave nicely with her. Anyway, I responded back to her question and said that XXXX is my employer. She then asked how long have you worked for them? By this time, I was not willing to accept the reality that perhaps she was the same VO about whom I had not heard too many good things. But I maintained my calm and answered all her questions clear and loud:

Here are the questions I was asked during my interview:

Me: Good morning Officer. How are you doing today?

VO: Good morning

VO: Who is your employer?

Me: XXXX

VO: How long have you worked for them?

Me: XXXX months

VO: Is there an end client?

Me: Yes, YYYY

VO: What do they do?

Me: They provide services in the following areas: etc etc etc

VO: What do you do?

Me: I work as ABCD

VO: Did you do your Masters?

Me: I did my Masters in ZZZZ Engineering from University of ZZZZ.

VO: What was your major?

Me: ZZZZ

VO: What was your major in Bachelors?

Me: I did my bachelors in same discipline; ZZZZ

VO: How do you qualify for this job as its not related to your BS and MS?

Me: I've been working in the same field for XX years. Additionally I have had xx courses in computer science.

VO: Why did you switch to IT in first place? Were there no jobs in ZZZZ (my BS and MS major)?

Me: Again I gave her the same reason that the research I did in BS and MS were more on the CS side.

VO: Show me your LCA, I-129 and paystubs?

Me: I have her LCA, I-129 and last 6 months paystubs.

VO: She was typing something for about 2-3 minutes which made me feel little jittery. Finally came golden words from her mouth, I am approving your visa. You can pick your passport in 3-5 business days. She handed me a white paper with instructions on how to track the status of my application.

Me: Thanks Officer. Have a good weekend!

Bottom line is that be prepared with a thorough documentation and ready to answer unexpected questions on some of the "weak areas" in your application. 7 guys went to different counters and were able to get through their interviews successfully. Just BE CONFIDENT, PREPARE YOUR DOCUMENTATION WELL and TALK LOUD and CLEAR during your interview !! I am sure you will be able to crack the interview. Good luck guys!!!! Finally, I cant thank you enough for your support, you all made my stay in Vancouver memorable: Krn, Rghu, Prshnt, Rksh, S Vnch, UsKra, Hrsh, Srknt, Vplv. Today I heard from Srknt that 20+ desi's got their H1B approved and none of them got 221g - which is a remarkable figure in my view.

Documents I carried with me:

Documents an H1-B applicant needs to carry for Visa interview:

1. Passport and Passport copies of all pages

2. DS-160 confirmation page (Barcode printout)

3. Original Visa interview appointment letter

4. Employer agreement / Employment contract letter signed by you and Employer Company (Original) / Contract between candidate and petitioner

5. Offer letter from the current Employer

6. Pay stubs for the last 2 years

7. Experience letter from the previous jobs

8. Employer letter/ Employment Verification Letter

9. Client Letter – Make sure Client mention Petitioner’s name in the Letter

10. W2’s and Tax Returns (for the entire period of your stay in USA)

11. Bank statements for last 2 years highlighting Direct deposits

12. Updated Resume

13. I 20's (All Original)

14. OPT Cards

15. Work location pictures (not necessary)

16. Client ID/Badge, Employer ID/Badge

17. Timesheets/status reports

18. Client location photos (optional) (not necessary)

19. Two passport size photographs as per specification

20. Work Experience Certificates, reference letters, appreciation certificates from previous or current employer/s (from the start of your career)

21. All Original Academic Credentials along with mark sheets(MS, BTECH, INTER, 10th)

22. SSN card

23. Driver’s license

24. H1B data collection and filing fee exemption supplement

25. H classification supplement to form I129

26. H1B visa petition and supporting docs filed with USCIS

27. I-797 – Original

28. I-129 &H1B cover letter

29. Copy of LCA

30. Previous I-797A and LCA (If any)

Congrats.

(1) What did you write on your DS-160 at the end, where it was asking about Temporary Work Visa information? I mean, what address did you write there? Client's or your employer's? Because, question is where do you intend to work?

(2) Did you have expense / per-diem deposits on your bank statements, along with the salary deposits?

(3) Did you carry detailed transaction (i.e. details of the direct deposit transaction), or just the regular bank statements, showing even our personal other transactions?

Link to comment
Hank_82 Advanced Member

Hank_82

Posted
Posted

I would like to start off with expressing my sincere thanks to Murthy forums and all those who've contributed to forums by sharing their experiences. Keep sharing your experiences, it would certainly help future interviewees immensely. Off late, I started noticing a promising and consistent trend of increased H1B stamping success rate at Vancouver Consulate, which was very pleasant, to say the least, All these years while working on H1B, I could not muster the courage to go for H1B stamping because of a lurking fear of not knowing what the future may hold in store for me. But as somebody rightly said, perhaps there is a point in everybody's life when we have to make tough decisions despite having an insight that ensuing consequences may very well cease all your aspirations in the US. I earnestly believe that I was at a point when I was able and willing to take the plunge and subsequently I started looking for appointment dates at Vancouver location. I was fortunate that with minimal hassles of rescheduling interview, I was able to secure an appointment on a preferred date.

Few suggestions future interviewees may want to consider:

1) Get your documentation in order before you plan to schedule an appointment - it would be very favorable for you if your last 4 to 6 months paystubs show a consistent amount. Paystub related questions are quintessential in nature that most VO's ask perhaps at the beginning phase of every interview. Try not to give them a reason to further question you on your paystubs because that trail may further descend down to W2s, tax returns, previous employers, roles and what not.

2) Start preparing for interview - I understand nobody wants to envision anything going wrong during their interview but I would suggest that you would stand a very good chance if you start working on "weak areas" in your application first and be ready to answer questions which may not sound pleasant to your ears. I followed this mantra and it worked wonders for me.

3) Post a thread on Murthy forums - I posted an accommodation thread on Muthy forum 2 weeks before my interview date and you will be amazed to hear that by the time I reached Vancouver, I had already interacted with 8 wonderful and very friendly guys who had their interviews on the same day. Having known few familiar folks sailing on the same boat on a completely alien land certainly boosted my confidence. A day before our interview date, we all went on dinner, shared few light moments, did few mock interviews - which I believe helped everyone.immensely. During this exercise, we were able to secure better answers for some of the "weak" areas in our applications. Remember, people like me are generally too lazy to start a thread of their own and prefer responding to existing posts - if you do so, you may loose the chance of interacting with a majority of folks who have their interviews scheduled on the same day. The bottom line is that please post a thread on Murthy forum rather than responding to existing threads.

4) Hotel accommodation/rate - I observed a specific rate trend for Days Inn hotel on W Pender St which is nearest to the Consulate. There is absolutely no need to make reservation 1-2 months prior to your stipulated arrival date. Check out hotel rates 4-5 times a day ( in incognito mode so that system does not store cookies) and you will see atleast a 40% higher rates during peak hours. Lock in your rate during off hours. You may very well get the lowest rate even when you confirm your reservation mere a day before your arrival.

5) Credit cards - If you carry few hundred US dollars and have Master or Visa card(s), you will not encounter any issues as most of the merchants in Canada accept USD at 1:1 ratio.

A day before my interview, I met a very friendly guy I have been in touch with through Murthy forums. He was waiting for his passport pickup after successful interview at Vancouver Consulate (Krn). During our discussion on how to get through interview successfully, he reiterated that confidence is the key (I am sure we all have read it somewhere or the other) for cracking H1B stamping interview. Whatever you say during the interview, say it loud and clear - DO NOT MURMUR!. Visa Officer should get an impression that you are fully aware of everything you are saying and that you are saying it with utmost honesty ;). He also mentioned about an infamous lady VO at Counter 4 who allegedly gives 221g even when you respond to her questions convincingly enough.

On the day of interview, most of us (everybody except 1) had our interviews scheduled at 9:30 AM but we all started perhaps a little too early at around 8 AM from Days Inn hotel. We reached the Consulate at around 8:10 AM and were asked to stand in queue for the first preliminary security check. After preliminary security check was completed, the security personnel allowed 5-6 candidates at a time to go for a second round of thorough security check which takes place on 2nd floor. After the security check we were asked to submit our passport, I-797 for PIMS verification at the counter, given a token number and were asked to wait till our token number was called off on the screen. Once my token number was called off, I went to the same counter on 2nd floor to collect my passport and I-797. After PIMS verification, I was again asked to sit in the waiting lounge and watch for my token number on the screen. My token number was called in, say, 10 mins, followed by which I was escorted to the 20th floor in an elevator by a security personnel. On reaching 20th floor, I was asked to wait in the interview room where VOs actually conduct interviews. It's such a small room with only 4 counters for H1B stamping interviews that one can easily listen to VO's questions and applicants responses. Don't get anything on your nerves and stay calm and seated until your token number is called off for the final interview. To my dismay, I was called at counter 4 for the interview. I was aware that VO at counter 4 was known to give hard time to most of the candidates and had put everybody through higher scrutiny than other VOs - but I had no choice other than going to counter 4. On reaching counter 4, I greeted her with a smile on my face and said good morning. She must be in her late twenties or early thirties and not bad on eyes;). The first thing she asked me to do was to go through the the finger printing procedure. She asked me to put left/right fingers on the finger printing device followed by respective thumbs. To be honest, I had lost some fear by the time I was done with finger printing in the hopes that it was just a finger printing counter and that the actual interview counter may have changed which I was not aware of. It seemed destiny had something else in store for me that day, I was taken aback for a while when she asked who is your employer. A flash of light suddenly struck my mind that even though she may just be a fingerprinting lady and not the Visa Officer, I decided I should be respectful and polite to all Consulate personnels and was thinking that she may recommend my visa application to the actual visa officer if I behave nicely with her. Anyway, I responded back to her question and said that XXXX is my employer. She then asked how long have you worked for them? By this time, I was not willing to accept the reality that perhaps she was the same VO about whom I had not heard too many good things. But I maintained my calm and answered all her questions clear and loud:

Here are the questions I was asked during my interview:

Me: Good morning Officer. How are you doing today?

VO: Good morning

VO: Who is your employer?

Me: XXXX

VO: How long have you worked for them?

Me: XXXX months

VO: Is there an end client?

Me: Yes, YYYY

VO: What do they do?

Me: They provide services in the following areas: etc etc etc

VO: What do you do?

Me: I work as ABCD

VO: Did you do your Masters?

Me: I did my Masters in ZZZZ Engineering from University of ZZZZ.

VO: What was your major?

Me: ZZZZ

VO: What was your major in Bachelors?

Me: I did my bachelors in same discipline; ZZZZ

VO: How do you qualify for this job as its not related to your BS and MS?

Me: I've been working in the same field for XX years. Additionally I have had xx courses in computer science.

VO: Why did you switch to IT in first place? Were there no jobs in ZZZZ (my BS and MS major)?

Me: Again I gave her the same reason that the research I did in BS and MS were more on the CS side.

VO: Show me your LCA, I-129 and paystubs?

Me: I have her LCA, I-129 and last 6 months paystubs.

VO: She was typing something for about 2-3 minutes which made me feel little jittery. Finally came golden words from her mouth, I am approving your visa. You can pick your passport in 3-5 business days. She handed me a white paper with instructions on how to track the status of my application.

Me: Thanks Officer. Have a good weekend!

Bottom line is that be prepared with a thorough documentation and ready to answer unexpected questions on some of the "weak areas" in your application. 7 guys went to different counters and were able to get through their interviews successfully. Just BE CONFIDENT, PREPARE YOUR DOCUMENTATION WELL and TALK LOUD and CLEAR during your interview !! I am sure you will be able to crack the interview. Good luck guys!!!! Finally, I cant thank you enough for your support, you all made my stay in Vancouver memorable: Krn, Rghu, Prshnt, Rksh, S Vnch, UsKra, Hrsh, Srknt, Vplv. Today I heard from Srknt that 20+ desi's got their H1B approved and none of them got 221g - which is a remarkable figure in my view.

Documents I carried with me:

Documents an H1-B applicant needs to carry for Visa interview:

1. Passport and Passport copies of all pages

2. DS-160 confirmation page (Barcode printout)

3. Original Visa interview appointment letter

4. Employer agreement / Employment contract letter signed by you and Employer Company (Original) / Contract between candidate and petitioner

5. Offer letter from the current Employer

6. Pay stubs for the last 2 years

7. Experience letter from the previous jobs

8. Employer letter/ Employment Verification Letter

9. Client Letter – Make sure Client mention Petitioner’s name in the Letter

10. W2’s and Tax Returns (for the entire period of your stay in USA)

11. Bank statements for last 2 years highlighting Direct deposits

12. Updated Resume

13. I 20's (All Original)

14. OPT Cards

15. Work location pictures (not necessary)

16. Client ID/Badge, Employer ID/Badge

17. Timesheets/status reports

18. Client location photos (optional) (not necessary)

19. Two passport size photographs as per specification

20. Work Experience Certificates, reference letters, appreciation certificates from previous or current employer/s (from the start of your career)

21. All Original Academic Credentials along with mark sheets(MS, BTECH, INTER, 10th)

22. SSN card

23. Driver’s license

24. H1B data collection and filing fee exemption supplement

25. H classification supplement to form I129

26. H1B visa petition and supporting docs filed with USCIS

27. I-797 – Original

28. I-129 &H1B cover letter

29. Copy of LCA

30. Previous I-797A and LCA (If any)

Also, wondering, do they allow us to carry so many documents? I mean, i heard that they dont allow big folders or so, and instead they give us small folder where we have to put whatever we could etc? Can you please give some idea on the logistic flexibility?

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sapbpc Member

sapbpc

Posted
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Posted

@ CanadaStamping10 - I am sorry I am not sure whether Vancouver would be a good location for you or not. Perhaps talk to your employer/attorney before making any big move.

@VB2013 - Are you working for the same client for which you have your current I129 petition approved? If not, could you tell me if you had to do an H1 Amendment because of the client change? I have booked for march12 in Vancouver but debating to go ahead or not as I have moved to a different client. The LCA is updated and not H1 not amended. Were any of the folkes you met in Canada in this situation? Please let us know. Thanks in advance.

*** Yes I am working with the same client as mentioned on I-129 petition. If I were you, I would file H1 Amendment before I even start planning for H1B stamping interview. We can never predict with certainty what questions may be asked during interview - if we give VO one reason which raises suspicion, that's certainly not good. Focus on your documentation first, if you are satisfied with your application in entirety, that would an opportune time to go ahead and schedule an appointment, rather than rushing up and missing important points in your application. This is just my personal opinion and not an expert advise :)***

@ Hank82 - (1) What did you write on your DS-160 at the end, where it was asking about Temporary Work Visa information? I mean, what address did you write there? Client's or your employer's? Because, question is where do you intend to work?

*** I provided correct information. I provided my clients information where I work.***

(2) Did you have expense / per-diem deposits on your bank statements, along with the salary deposits?

*** I did not have per diem but if you have have per-diem, mention it to the VO confidently the reason(s) why they were on your paystubs. There are many folks in the IT industry who are required to travel to different client /employer locations for work related commitments - which is absolutely fine and legit in my view - again that's my personal opinion****

(3) Did you carry detailed transaction (i.e. details of the direct deposit transaction), or just the regular bank statements, showing even our personal other transactions?

*** Yes, I carried detailed bank statements and highlighted direct deposits from my employer. Highlighting direct deposits is the preferred way and VO does not have to go through all line items in your statement.****

(4) Also, wondering, do they allow us to carry so many documents? I mean, i heard that they dont allow big folders or so, and instead they give us small folder where we have to put whatever we could etc? Can you please give some idea on the logistic flexibility?

*** I dont think there are any restrictions on the number of documents that you want to carry with you during the interview. I have met some people carrying big piles of documents to their interview. They were not asked to leave behind any documents by security personnels. The bottom line is that you should carry however many documents you need to substantiate your case, ****

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Hank_82 Advanced Member

Hank_82

Posted
Posted

@ CanadaStamping10 - I am sorry I am not sure whether Vancouver would be a good location for you or not. Perhaps talk to your employer/attorney before making any big move.

@VB2013 - Are you working for the same client for which you have your current I129 petition approved? If not, could you tell me if you had to do an H1 Amendment because of the client change? I have booked for march12 in Vancouver but debating to go ahead or not as I have moved to a different client. The LCA is updated and not H1 not amended. Were any of the folkes you met in Canada in this situation? Please let us know. Thanks in advance.

*** Yes I am working with the same client as mentioned on I-129 petition. If I were you, I would file H1 Amendment before I even start planning for H1B stamping interview. We can never predict with certainty what questions may be asked during interview - if we give VO one reason which raises suspicion, that's certainly not good. Focus on your documentation first, if you are satisfied with your application in entirety, that would an opportune time to go ahead and schedule an appointment, rather than rushing up and missing important points in your application. This is just my personal opinion and not an expert advise :)***

@ Hank82 - (1) What did you write on your DS-160 at the end, where it was asking about Temporary Work Visa information? I mean, what address did you write there? Client's or your employer's? Because, question is where do you intend to work?

*** I provided correct information. I provided my clients information where I work.***

(2) Did you have expense / per-diem deposits on your bank statements, along with the salary deposits?

*** I did not have per diem but if you have have per-diem, mention it to the VO confidently the reason(s) why they were on your paystubs. There are many folks in the IT industry who are required to travel to different client /employer locations for work related commitments - which is absolutely fine and legit in my view - again that's my personal opinion****

(3) Did you carry detailed transaction (i.e. details of the direct deposit transaction), or just the regular bank statements, showing even our personal other transactions?

*** Yes, I carried detailed bank statements and highlighted direct deposits from my employer. Highlighting direct deposits is the preferred way and VO does not have to go through all line items in your statement.****

(4) Also, wondering, do they allow us to carry so many documents? I mean, i heard that they dont allow big folders or so, and instead they give us small folder where we have to put whatever we could etc? Can you please give some idea on the logistic flexibility?

*** I dont think there are any restrictions on the number of documents that you want to carry with you during the interview. I have met some people carrying big piles of documents to their interview. They were not asked to leave behind any documents by security personnels. The bottom line is that you should carry however many documents you need to substantiate your case, ****

Thank you much.

They asked you, what they (your client, i presume) do? and you answered "they provide services to xxxxxx"

i was wondering, your end-client -- was it another big-4 consulting partner, who in turn would manage the project at one of their clients and provide services in xxxx areas? Or, your end-client was actually selling some products ? .. it seems / sounds, your end client was some service provider (to their own clients) so asking .. and i am in that situation where for me, my end client is actually a consulting partner, who in turn provides service to their clients ..

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