Interview with the U.S. Non-Immigrant Visa Consul

And so I had my interview at the U.S. embassy earlier. My schedule was supposed to be at 1pm but I got interviewed at around 3pm. Long queue, as usual.

I met up with the company-appointed travel agent (who really didn't help much) before I proceeded to the embassy premises. She was punctual. She told me that we'll meet up at 11am but guess what, she arrived quarter before 12!

Now, let's cut the crap and go to the juicy details.

Truth be told, this was my second interview with the U.S. embassy. I got declined the first time. Reason being: not sufficient professional ties in the Philippines. Back then, I was applying for a Tourist (B1) visa. The consul didn't bother to look at the documents I brought with me. She just read the application and asked me questions about my work, family and my education degree, which she said was not totally related to insurance.

Enough of the blab, here it is:

I slid my application and passport through the glass window.
Consul: What is the purpose of your trip?
Me: To attend training sponsored by our client in CA

Consul: What is your position in the company and what does your company do?
Me: Manager of blah blah... / Outsourcing

Consul: How long do you plan to stay in the U.S.
Me: Training runs for a month.

Consul: How much is your monthly salary:
Me: PHPxxxxxx

Consul: Why did you study education? I don't see the relevance to your present work.
Me (to self: oh no, deja vu): I took education to teach my kids English language skills.

Consul: But you said in the past that you plan to teach part-time, right?
Me: Yes, I did. But that did not materialize because I have no time to teach.

Consul: Do you plan to look for a job in the U.S.?
Me: No.

Consul: Who will take care of your kids while your away?
Me: I asked my mom a favor to look after my kids whilst I'm away.

Consul: Do you have relatives in the U.S.?
Me: Yes, I do.

The consul asked some more personal questions which I couldn't post here. Apologies.

In between, the questioning and tapping on the keys of the keyboard, the verdict awaits. I waited for her to ask for the copies of the sponsor letter, bank statements, etc. etc... but she did not even bother to look at the thick folder I have with me.

Consul: Your visa is approved. Please proceed to the pavilion to coordinate with Delbros with the delivery of your passport.

These are by far, the sweetest words uttered yesterday. Yahoo!

Tips during interview:
1. Be confident.
2. Do not dress up slovenly.
3. Do not lie. (The embassy maintains a record of all applicants. So, if you've been declined before, they'll know.)
4. Do not volunteer unnecessary information as this may work against you. In short, do not blab. Just give the consul a straightforward answer.
5. Prepare all documents. Albeit the consul didn't look at any of my documents, it is best to be prepared nonetheless.