Search

I will copy and paste the conversation between me and the Norwegian Embassy in San Francisco/CA. I just think the Embassies should be aware about the Travel Document...they look at it like it's an alien from Mars!!!

ME: Good morning Norwegian Embassy SF-CA

I live in Santa Barbara-California however I was born in Brazil and I have political Asylum. I just got my Refugee Travel Document and I was wondering If I need the "Schengen Visa" since I am not allowed to use the Brazilian passport anymore.
Can I go to Norway using the Travel Document or I need the "Schengen Visa"?

Hey guys,

I just got back from my naturalization interview downtown Los Angeles and wanted to share my experience:

I arrived 10 mins before my appointment and was called about an hour later;
A male officer greeted me and took me to his room, did not even close the door.

Asked me to raise my hand and swear to tell the truth, state my age, name and address. Then he asked me to see my driver’s license and green card.

My application was strong but my interview was weak and I slipped on a question or two. Towards the end of the interview, the asylum officer was very quiet and cold and when I told him that I would send him the document he requested he seemed like he didn't care. Do you think that means he is going to deny my application? How many days did it take for you to get your decision by mail

Hi All,

Sorry for the delay in posting about my experience.

As some of you know, I filed in August 2007 and got stuck in the front-log, and was unable to do my finger prints until December 2007. However, luckily, my interview was scheduled right away for March 2008.

In Buffalo, we do not have same day oath, so I knew going in that I would not be sworn in the same day. I did know however, that I would get the oath notice right away (on the spot) if I passed, because they hold ceremonies every 2 weeks.

Hi everyone,

I had my interview in NYC. It took about 10 min or less. I was approved on the spot and advised to wait for the oath letter, which I did.

Yes, I renewed my passport and went to COP three times (short trips) - I listed all trips on my application. No questions had been asked. However, being a member of this forum for years, I had all kind of docs with me to defend my decision to go.

No questions about asylum whatsoever. Just wanted to share. Good luck to everyone.

1. 21.5 years ago I arrived to USA and June 4 I will have a citizenship interview. You can read my story.

    

Well, for my it was a long time ago, but normally the IO will ask you for your ID, passport. IO will have on his/her desk all the package that you sent before; at this time you are allow to add any information that you consider might be relevant on your case. Then after this part is done IO starts asking you questions about your case, like dates, names , cities, organizations, etc....most of lawyers advise to answer only what they are asking, not to use many words...................just go to the point. Also of course go well dressed and bring all the papers that you think might need.

I think it will be different with each people. In my case, all three times were different.
The officer usually did a small talk with me while going to the room from the hall asking me about the weather and other information which was not listed in application from my previous state where I lived and how I liked it here. IMO, I took that in good and bad way. Good way in the sense, that he wanted me to feel comfortable and bad way, like as if he is saying, I already know everything about you. So, its a mixed bag.