Hi Folks
With reference to my earlier post, I was really desperate to get replies regarding my query for first time Stamping at Chennai embassy, for first time stamping for H-1 B from J1 Visa.
Now, atlast I got my visa stamped and here are more details to folks who are sailing in same boat.
1. I originally came to US during 2001 August as postdoctoral researcher to work at one of the university on J-1 Visa. It took huge amount of time to convert my visa to H-1 B. I got my waiver, just before the end of second year. Then, my H-1 B visa has been extended for one year only (i.e., from 2003-2004) as one of my prof., didn't had any idea and I too did not noticed it. Later during 2004, my H-1 B visa was again filed for three more years, i.e, from 2004-2007.
2. After it was extended for three more years, I just went to India for H-1 B stamping at chennai embassy. My appointment was on October 14th, 2004, at 8.0 a.m
3. I reached embassy just before 10 minutes. I carried all the necessary documents, including all my certificates (Ph.D), along with employment letters, pay slips, W-2 tax returns, univ pics (front and back entrance) etc. Most importantly, I also carried J-1 Waiver certificate too. As all my degrees are from India (including Ph.D), i also took evaluation certificate (from private consultants from US), just to be in safe side.
4. At the embassy, near the entrance, the security people thoroughly checked and they were particular to check the sealed envelopes too. Thus, just remove any sealed envelopes and make them open, so as to save time.
5. The TTS service folks took the check and then there were different counters, wherein the main forms of DS-156 and 157, along with passport will be checked and kept. After checking, I am given one receipt and told to go to next building (which is very close by).
6. With the receipt (paper token...) in hand I entered next building and wherein there is a lobby with several counters. I waited till my turn and when officers arrived at counters, we were called as per receipt numbers (upto nearly 10) for each counter...and then made to stand in a queue.
7. I was interviewed by a male officer, who was very smart enough and was drilling other folks like anything. Just before me, two candidates, were rejected for visa, which made me little tense. However, when my turn came, the officer just peeked into my visa application forms (DS-156, 157 and passport) and then just said 'just follow the signs of those finger prints and put your left finger on that machine'. I was very happy, as by then, I knew that my case is positive - as finger printing is the last step. Then, afterwards, while looking into other forms, he asked me to explain, what exact research I do, which I explained in detail. (I would like to just inform that, I travelled several countries for research purpose, which might have also created a positive impression. Those details need to be filled in the DS forms (countries visited.....) However, I may be wrong.)
8. Although, I carried all the documents, I was asked only 'Waiver Certificate' (J-1 Visa 2 year home requirement....waiver). He checked that certificate and then, asked me to just pay the fee (which is in the last counter).
9. I paid the fee and was out of embassy, by 10.15. Thus, entire process was from 8.0 till 10.0.
10. My passport arrived just the next day through courier (by TTS), with multiple entry H-1 B visa stamp on it.
Now, I am back to US to resume my work.
Please feel free to contact me at kriskk1@rediffmail.com, for any further clarifications.
I wish you all luck in your future endeavors.
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