3rd Stamping. Vancouver or Montreal or Ottawa?

[hardrockstar]

Hi Everyone,

My first H1B stamping was in Chennai (2007), 2nd one was in Hyderabad(2010); both the stampings were without any issues. I have been on H1B all the while (Bachelors from Ind + work ex.).

 

I just got my extension after the 6th yr on H1.

I'd like to get the stamping done asap since the client and vendor letters (EVC) are just 4months old and thinking of using the same for visa interview too. Also, I do not want to deal with the amendments etc. if I end up having to change the client.

 

I live around NYC and going by the distance and ease of travel, places like Montreal and Ottawa are closer; ;I can just drive. Going by the success rate, Vancouver seems like a good option.

 

I'd still be working remotely (through VPN) while I'm in Canada. I have a few questions as follows:

 

1.What are the current wait times to get the visa stamped in Vancouver, Ottawa and Montreal, after the interview?

               ie. a. If visa interview goes well, how many days will it take to get the passport back?

                    b. If a 221g is issued, how many days (approximate) do I have to spend in Canada?

 

2.Vancouver seems liberal in issuing visas, but should I still be worried about going to Montreal or Ottawa since I have all the documentation, including client and vendor letters etc.? I know, its all case by case basis, but what is your general opinion?

 

3.Also what is your opinion on Kingston, Jamaica? It appears to be another good option. We don't need a separate visitor visa prior to entering Jamaica.

 

Appreciate your help on this.

 

Thanks

-HRS

[rahul412]

Dude, you worked for more than 6 yrs on H1 and still believe that consulate shopping works. That's weird.....!!

BTW, 4 months old letter might not work. If possible get the latest one.

[hardrockstar]

Rahul,

Thanks for checking my post and finding time to respond.

 

When it comes to visa stamping I'd like to play it safe; so I don't think it's weird.

 

Of course, I always keep all the documents, but I want to minimize the no. of days before getting the visa stamped.

For eg: I've read posts and even my employer confirmed that in some cases Ottawa is taking about 5+ days to issue visa and about 7-14 days in some other cases. However, Vancouver seems to be taking the usual 2 business days.

 

There are even posts with ease of stamping. Vancouver - > Calgary --> Toronto/Montreal/Ottawa etc. but these posts are somewhat old.

 

I'm asking if someone with recent visa approvals to throw some light on my concerns. 

[rahul412]

When it comes to visa stamping I'd like to play it safe; so I don't think it's weird.

Playing safe you mean trusting stranger's advice rather than trusting yourself?

 

Anyhow, since you got all the docs. Find the one which is near to your current location.

[hardrockstar]

Playing safe you mean trusting stranger's advice rather than trusting yourself?

 

Anyhow, since you got all the docs. Find the one which is near to your current location.

No, personal experience of fellow members would be more appropriate, followed by their advice.

[raja0077]

@hardrockstar:Finally where did you go for stamping? could you please share your stamping experience?