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TravelRe: General USA Student Visa Enquiries-part 17 by shakidude: 12:31pm On Oct 04, 2022
The link is not working. Please, kindly add me to the groups. My no is 08023334514.

Thank you

Johnson021:
For some people enquiring about Lagos and Abuja date search, I’ll drop the group link to Lagos and Abuja F1 date search here.

Abuja : https:///GDCU7pIKlWGJnFQlPioplN

Lagos: https:///Lc23ZlXSEUjCd5C5OoxkyE
TravelRe: General USA Student Visa Enquiries-part 16 by shakidude:
My son is 17 year old going to study Biological Sciences at UMBC- Bachelor's degree.

I followed him in for the interview as he’s still a minor.

Cost of attendance: 45k
Merit scholarship: 12k

Interview at Abuja embassy last Thursday May 19
Duration: Around two minutes
Visa approved


VO: hello so I see u’re accompanied by ur mom
Son: hello ma, yes

VO: come forward for biometrics
Son: did as was instructed

VO: so I see u’re going to University of Maryland Baltimore county for your Bachelor’s in Biological sciences
Son: yes ma with second major in English language and Literature ( he loves writing Lol)

VO: nodded and smiled
I see you have travelled to the US multiple times
Son: yes all for family vacation

VO: so who is paying for your studies?
Son: my Dad

VO: what does he do?
Son: told him

VO: so what are your plans after graduation?
Son: I’m coming back to Nigeria to work in research institutes

VO: I will be approving your visa and all the remaining stuff
Both of us: smiling while saying thank you thank you

Received pick up mail on the 25

Thanks to everyone, UmmZayd, beejay for answering my questions and those that accepted me to the Abuja appointment date check on WhatsApp.

Good luck to others
TravelRe: General USA Student Visa Enquiries-part 16 by shakidude: 1:20pm On May 28, 2022
Daddydee56:
Congratulations.
Please I have not been seeing transcript for undergraduate students.
Does it mean its only postgraduate students we have on this platform?
We have a few number of undergraduates. My son’s F1 visa got approved last week. Nothing spectacular about the interview and I don’t think there is much to learn but all the same, I will share the transcript below.
TravelRe: General USA Student Visa Enquiries-part 16 by shakidude: 7:55pm On Feb 21, 2022
slimmy2005:
You don’t need to pay SEVIS fee to book appointment. You need to pay the Sevis fee before the appointment interview date.

You should pay the SEVIS fee immediately you get the I-20 if possible.

Book any date you see on the appointment portal and request for emergency appointment/ Expedited appointment. It would be granted and dates would be sent for him to pick.


It depends on the visa fee you paid for. It’s for visitors visa you would have to pay another visa fee for student visa.
Okay! Thanks very much for this information . I will do the needful
TravelRe: General USA Student Visa Enquiries-part 16 by shakidude:
Hello my good people,

Please, I need your help!

My son has gotten admission into University of Maryland Baltimore County for fall 2022. First degree
With 12k scholarship.


I am in the process of sending documents to the school to get his I20 but now that getting interview dates is so difficult, my question now is do I wait to to get the I20 before scheduling interview date or I can pay the visa fee, schedule appointment while waiting for the I20?

At what point do I need to pay the SEVIS fee? Is it required to schedule appointment?

Please, any suggestions will highly be appreciated. I just want to do everything on time for him to have his interview before school resumes in fall.

Also, we are frequent travelers and already paid Visa fee for visit visa since last year.

Can he use the same receipt for F1 visa or he has to get another one?
Thanks
TravelRe: U.S Visit: Port Of Entry Interview/stories. by shakidude: 8:59am On Apr 10, 2021
megastu:
You were triggered for a secondary interview because your visa is expiring this month.
.

No, it wasn’t because of that. This is not the first time I’ve used an almost expired visa to travel, like less than 2 weeks to expiration.

The visa allows you to board the plane as long as it’s still valid.

I forgot to mention here, someone told me it could be because I bought the ticket in the morning and flew that same evening and this was due to the fact that I was turned back at the airport by Lufthansa the previous night. They were only carrying citizens and PRs. I had to buy another one the next morning through MR Seyewest who saved me from unnecessary stress.

Most people from that plane were sent there anyway so I really don’t know their reason.
TravelRe: U.S Visit: Port Of Entry Interview/stories. by shakidude:
My POE story.....

I flew Turkish airline to Houston from Abuja. Lay over was around 9 hours at Instanbul: I dreaded this long wait but It didn’t bother me in the long run as I purchased internet service on my phone for around $7 valid for 24hrs. They only have free access for an hour. Turkish airline is also now becoming stingy, before they give food voucher that can even get u 2 meals but now they said voucher only for 12 hrs or more layover. I had to buy food this time.

On getting to Houston; the CBP officer asked whom I would stay with, how long and when was the last time I visited, then he took my picture. I thought that was the end until he beckoned on another officer to take me in for secondary interview. I was shocked but calm. I was not expecting that since I had passed there multiple times.

The room was full of people waiting for their case to be attended to by 4 officers at the long desk. There were also like 6 smaller rooms labeled interview room and an exit door for those that would not be allowed entry but sent back home. Like I said, I wondered what I was doing there and prayed silently not to pass through that exit door cos I saw someone being escorted through.

I was going for an exam and while waiting doing nothing I decided to bring out my big book to study. After about 30 min, I needed to use the restroom and as an officer came to call someone into one of the mini interview rooms, I told him I wanted to go to d restroom but couldn’t find one, he told me to go meet the officers at the front desk to get the key and I did. After coming out and returning the key, the guy just told me to stay for my interview. It went thus;

CBP: where are you coming from
Me: Nigeria
CBP: Did u come direct?
Me: no, passed through Turkey so lay over at Istanbul
Cbp: oh! Ok. So where are u going to stay
Me: told him
Cbp: how long?
Me: 1 month
Cbp: why are u here
Me: to write an exam
Cbp: oh! U’re a professional?
Me: yes
Cbp: remove ur mask and face the camera. Stamped me in for 6 months. Enjoy your stay

Meanwhile, my visa is due to expire this month end. It doesn’t matter though, it’s d duration of stay that matters


I don’t know the criteria they use to call people but definitely not according to as u arrived there cos if it had been, I would have stayed at least 4 hrs there before it reached my turn but I spent less than an hour there.

I just thank God that I wasn’t sent back. I have a good travel history though and have never overstayed my visa.

NB. They didn’t ask for my Covid result on arrival

Important info that I forgot to mention here. [b][/b]

If u’re on B1/B2 visa, avoid European airlines and BA for now, they are only carrying citizens and permanent residents. I was turned back at the airport by Lufthansa. I had to contact our dear Mr Seyewest who was able to get me Turkish ticket the next morning at a very very affordable price. You wouldn’t even know that it’s an express ticket to tell you low it was.

Thanks again MR Seyewest for relieving my stress and saving me from unnecessary worry.
TravelRe: USA Visit Visa Part 4 by shakidude: 11:17am On Apr 08, 2021
Hello everyone, if you are traveling to U.S, and on a B1/B2 visa, pls avoid European airlines and BA. I was turned back at the airport on my scheduled Lufthansa flight. They were only carrying citizens and permanent residents. My Plans were disrupted but thanks to Mr Seyewest. I remembered that I had read a post here on how he helped people to book ticket while being trustworthy and professional. I contacted him the next morning and he didn’t disappoint. He got me a Turkish ticket to fly that same day at a ridiculously low rate. I didn’t bother to unpack my luggage from the car, I just rested for a while and headed back to the airport.

Mr Seyewest kept checking up on me till I reached my final destination in the U.S. He relieved my stress. I will definitely contact him again for other travels. I recommend him to anyone planning same.

Thanks a lot Mr Seyewest. You really saved me from unnecessary worry. God bless you
TravelRe: USA Visit Visa Part 4 by shakidude: 11:28am On Jul 14, 2019
Greetings everyone,

Would like to give a positive feedback.

So, I submitted my passport for renewal(dropbox) on April 29 and visa was granted July 12. It took a total of 10 weeks

Having read so many recent transcripts about 221g and subsequent denial after birthing in the U.S, I dreaded the trending 221g and Im so happy to have scaled it this time. I got one in 2017, was later refused but re- applied 2 weeks after and got it.

Although, the dropbox has now been cancelled, In my own opinion, I feel you can increase your chances for a successful visa renewal if you also go for vacations in other countries, that way you don't sound like you cannot afford any foreign trips or you are looking to cheat the system.

I paid less than 10k for my last birth. Previous one was even way cheaper and both were through CS. I mean if I want to purchase a good for 100 naira and another person is offering me fifty naira for same quality, why will I for heaven's sake decide to pay 100 naira when I can use the balance for something else. I have never received any public fund or medicaid but I've been able to convince the V.O that I will never in anyway abuse my visa.

I spent 2 months when I went for childbirth in 2017 as stated in my application and have also gone back to the states on 2 other occasions for 2 weeks in 2018 and another again earlier this year.

Also within that 2 year period, I visited the U.k and France.

In all, don't forget the power of prayers. It works wonders as long as you're doing the right thing. Even God wants honesty.

Good luck to others.
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 6 by shakidude: 11:27am On Jul 14, 2019
Greetings everyone,

Would like to give a positive feedback.

So, I submitted my passport for renewal(dropbox) on April 29 and visa was granted July 12. It took a total of 10 weeks

Having read so many recent transcripts about 221g and subsequent denial after birthing in the U.S, I dreaded the trending 221g and Im so happy to have scaled it this time. I got one in 2017, was later refused but re- applied 2 weeks after and got it.

Although, the dropbox has now been cancelled, In my own opinion, I feel you can increase your chances for a successful visa renewal if you also go for vacations in other countries, that way you don't sound like you cannot afford any foreign trips or you are looking to cheat the system.

I paid less than 10k for my last birth. Previous one was even way cheaper and both were through CS. I mean if I want to purchase a good for 100 naira and another person is offering me fifty naira for same quality, why will I for heaven's sake decide to pay 100 naira when I can use the balance for something else. I have never received any public fund or medicaid but I've been able to convince the V.O that I will never in anyway abuse my visa.

I spent 2 months when I went for childbirth in 2017 as stated in my application and have also gone back to the states on 2 other occasions for 2 weeks in 2018 and another again earlier this year.

Also within that 2 year period, I visited the U.k and France.

In all, don't forget the power of prayers. It works wonders as long as you're doing the right thing. Even God wants honesty.

Good luck to others.
TravelRe: USA Visit Visa Part 4 by shakidude: 11:01pm On Jul 12, 2019
yinksob002:
Hello guys,
I submitted my passport for dropbox renewal for almost 9 weeks now but yet to get a response.

Is there anyone in the house with a similar scenario cos this is taking too long.

Thanks
Hi, I also submitted on April 29. Everytime I check, I see passport delivery information. Had to send them a mail on Tuesday and they apologized for the delay, that they have large volume. I decided to check now after seeing your post and saw that my passport is ready for pickup.
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude: 8:03pm On Jun 05, 2017
[quote author=mamanjai post=57226870][/quote]I think you have a better chance in Lagos. You are lucky Abuja airport has been re opened. Me i had to go through Kaduna to fly to Lagos.

I don't think the itemized bill will change their mind in Abuja embassy
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude: 7:48pm On Jun 05, 2017
mamanjai:
Hi Everyone. I would need your advice as usual.
Applied for Dropbox and was asked to go for an interview.
Vo: greeting
Me:hi
Vo:passport pla
What are you going for
Childbirth
When did you have your last baby
2 years ago
How many weeks are you spending now
10 weeks
How many weeks dos you spend the last time
10 weeks
VO:How many kids do you have
Me:2
VO: why did you state you where going for holidays and went to have your baby
Me: at the time we applied for vacation, I was asked if I was pregnant and I said yes. During the interview the Visa office said if we decide to have put baby in the us I should notify the embassy of this intention because we might be stopped at the point of entry. We notified them and got a reply
VO:Do you have an Itemised bill from the hospital. An Itemised bill(she emphasized this)
Me:No,but i have zero balance. The hospital doesn't give an Itemised bill
VO: oh yes they do. Hospitals in the US give an Itemised bill.
Me: ok. I tried getting that,but wasn't successful
Do you know anyone in Phoenix
Me: No
VO: are you going alone
Me: Yes
VO:Why is your husband not going with you
Me:Because he has to be at work
VO:Who would take care of your 2 year old
Me:My husband and mother Inlaw
VO What do you do
Me:I told her
VO:How long have you been doing that
Me:Abt 5 years now
VO:Do you know anyone in Phoenix ( she asked again)
Me:No
VO:Do you know anyone in Chicago
Me:No
VO:Why are you going to Chicago now
Me:Because Phoenix was about far and since am going alone I want somewhere closer where I can just have my baby and quickly head back home

I think that abt that and brought their green paper.

I would like to reapply. Is this advisable? But I need advice to on what to do and say next. What I said wrong and what I did wrong.

I would appreciate every kind and urgent Response

Thank you much
Your story is similar to mine. You can read my transcript.

I guess you used MIHS previously. If yes,  then it's probably because of the low bill that the VO drilled you so much.

I'm also guessing this took place at Abuja embassy.  They are vexing in that place. If yes, I would advice you to reapply in Lagos

Also, that your reason of Phoenix being far compared to Chicago is too vague. America is far as well. If you are so worried about distance, why not give birth in Nigeria where you don't even have to travel at all. You could have said something about getting better accommodation there.
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude: 7:38pm On Jun 05, 2017
mamanjai:
Hi Everyone. I would need your advice as usual.
Applied for Dropbox and was asked to go for an interview.
Vo: greeting
Me:hi
Vo:passport pla
What are you going for
Childbirth
When did you have your last baby
2 years ago
How many weeks are you spending now
10 weeks
How many weeks dos you spend the last time
10 weeks
VO:How many kids do you have
Me:2
VO: why did you state you where going for holidays and went to have your baby
Me: at the time we applied for vacation, I was asked if I was pregnant and I said yes. During the interview the Visa office said if we decide to have put baby in the us I should notify the embassy of this intention because we might be stopped at the point of entry. We notified them and got a reply
VO:Do you have an Itemised bill from the hospital. An Itemised bill(she emphasized this)
Me:No,but i have zero balance. The hospital doesn't give an Itemised bill
VO: oh yes they do. Hospitals in the US give an Itemised bill.
Me: ok. I tried getting that,but wasn't successful
Do you know anyone in Phoenix
Me: No
VO: are you going alone
Me: Yes
VO:Why is your husband not going with you
Me:Because he has to be at work
VO:Who would take care of your 2 year old
Me:My husband and mother Inlaw
VO What do you do
Me:I told her
VO:How long have you been doing that
Me:Abt 5 years now
VO:Do you know anyone in Phoenix ( she asked again)
Me:No
VO:Do you know anyone in Chicago
Me:No
VO:Why are you going to Chicago now
Me:Because Phoenix was about far and since am going alone I want somewhere closer where I can just have my baby and quickly head back home

I think that abt that and brought their green paper.

I would like to reapply. Is this advisable? But I need advice to on what to do and say next. What I said wrong and what I did wrong.

I would appreciate every kind and urgent Response

Thank you much

Your story is similar to mine. You can read my transcript.

I guess you used MIHS previously. If yes, then it's probably because of the low bill that the VO drilled you so much.

I'm also guessing this took place at Abuja embassy. They are vexing in that place. If yes, I would advice you to reapply in Lagos

Also, that your reason of Phoenix too far compared to Chicago is too vague. America is far as well. If you are so worried about distance, why not give birth in Nigeria where you don't even have to travel at all. You could have said something about getting better accommodation there.
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude: 4:23pm On Jun 04, 2017
Yippie! I scaled the dreaded Houston POE.

If you will recall my story about how I, hubby and son applied for dropbox, were called for interview and denied visa  in Abuja despite multiple travels to the U.S. I went to Lagos 2 weeks after and got my visa approved by God's grace so on this journey, I also prayed to God to go with me.

I arrived yesterday. So, as we were asked to move forward to wait in line for the CBP officer, I quickly scanned for a cool looking face and stayed there.

My turn...
CBP... Hi
Me ...Hi, hands him over my passport and immigration card
CBP.... checks the card and asked: Are you bringing any food, meat?
Me.. No
CBP..... I can see you have declared cash over 10k. How much do you have?
Me... $12,410
CBP... why are you coming with so much money?
Me.... Because I'm here to have my baby
CBP..Oh! You are pregnant? With my bloated face and obvious belle oooo
Me... yes
CBP... Did you already fill the white paper to declare the amount?
Me.. Yes, then I asked my self, which white paper is this guy talking about? I know I'm supposed to fill that after being stamped in. Then I asked him. Sir, which paper are you talking about? I only filled this one that was given on the plane.
CBP.... Alright, place your fingers on.....   took my fingerprint and picture. So you will step aside for me. I will call an officer to take you to a place where you will fill the form and declare your cash. I did and he immediately calls someone, gave him my passport and the person just directed me to where to go and hands me back my passport.

All these took less than 2 minutes.

I went downstairs and declared the cash and while the  CBP officer was doing his job, I checked my passport and realized the first guy  did not stamp me in so I was hoping this one will stamp me in after but when he was done, he just told me to go so I told him that I've not been stamped in. He said I should have. I told him no. He checked my passport and when he didn't see it,  he said that's weird, how can they admit me in and not stamp my passport. He wanted to place a call to d unit upstairs but then, his colleague said he should call the guy that admitted me in directly so as not to put him trouble. They checked the system to see who it was and said oh! It's the new guy! Me thinking,  no wonder he was asking for white paper.  Na so dem call am oooo. D guy said he will come down to stamp it. I come begin dey wait.  I waited for like 20min d guy no gree come. They were pissed with him, they called him again and he said he's no longer coming that they should stamp it. The guy just told me not to worry and went in to stamp it. Then when he brought back my passport, I told him maybe the other guy must have forgotten to stamp it.

He said dont mind him and he doesn't want to admit it and we are trying to help him here.

Well, na so God win again ooo

Lesson learnt, always check your passport before leaving their sight and if in doubt of anything, ask questions.

Don't be afraid of Houston POE as long as you have done the right thing.

Best wishes everyone.
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude: 2:15pm On Jun 02, 2017
PrinceAdeAde:
Thanks a lot.Am in Lagos. Actually got someone later
Okay. Thank God
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude: 8:52pm On Jun 01, 2017
PrinceAdeAde:
Anyone travelling to houston between now & Monday and can assist take consent form along. Abegi,let me know
I can be of help. Where do you live? I am in Abuja
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude: 4:48pm On May 30, 2017
freshdad:
its just 1month...except you are a frequent traveller, just start the passport process as soon as you can.
Thanks for the reply. I will weigh my options.
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude:
freshdad:
So the journey finally ended on Thursday 25th as we all returned home safely 25 days after baby's arrival.

Baby's docs were all secured in about two weeks.

Paid $190 for visa on arrival at MMIA.

Big shoutout to the house, special thanks to @chibertha, @shawbabe - padi mi and till very recently @sugah. You guys rock.

My ego oyinbo is still adjusting to Lagos weather...Lol
Congrats Freshdad.

Please what's the duration of the VOA? Is it the regular 2 years or less? I'm asking cos of the stress of getting Nigerian visa every time for frequent travellers, this one that Naija passport booklet is scarce.
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude: 7:56pm On May 26, 2017
nefertitiram:
You have also misquoted me. I did not get Intl passport with NPC, intact we don't need one n I'm pretty sure desoul was misinformed that's why he got one.
It is absolutely wrong to get a Nigerian birth certificate for a foreign born child. There is no need to sugar coat what is so glaringly wrong and pass it off as right because in Nigeria everything and anything goes.

A child born to US parents in Nigerian cannot go to US and request a birth certificate. The best he can do is request for CRBA (which can be used in lieu of a US birth certificate to issue his US passport). I repeat HE CAN NEVER GET A US BIRTH CERTIFICATE.

So also a child born to Nigerian parents will get registered with the Foreign Births Unit of Immigration department(FOR RECORDS PURPOSES) before a Nigerian passport is issued in Nigeria.

Infact, getting a Nigerian birth certificate for a foreign born child is immigration fraud and SFU can take up the matter. Ignorance is not an excuse
You have said it all Nerf. A birth cert is issued in the country of birth. It can't be issued elsewhere. So simple.
TravelRe: USA Visit Visa Part 2 by shakidude: 8:40am On Apr 20, 2017
nefertitiram:
So my bobo finally agreed to reapply, after we jaboed him last year and went frolicking without him. He beefed us so Tey he decreed no more travelling for us.

Lolz

So he goes for the interview, and the VO asks when last he was in US. He was perplexed and was like I applied a few years ago and I was denied, I have never been to US.

VO: so you were not in US last October?
DH: no sir
VO: oh, sorry I was looking at your wife's profile (so he said, this confuses me greatly, though. Why was he looking at my profile?)

DH: My wife has been to US a number of times and I have a US born child

VO: Yer, I know..Then mumbles a lot of stuff hubby couldn't hear while typing on the computer... So, what is the most challenging part of your job?
DH: blah blah blah. More blah and blah blah
VO: ok, good. Pick up your visa in 3 days.


grin

Sorry the transcript was short. That was how the interview went.

We kept it simple. Holiday in NY. Used hotel as contact in US.

... and his 3 year old deflated Ego is back with a bang!He can't wait to enter NY based on logistics. Infact, it's like he will just be going by himself
I rejoice with you and family. Congrats Nerf
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude: 5:44pm On Mar 22, 2017
nefertitiram:
Lols @ sounding like her. Im trying to imagime her face.
No mind them in Abuja. They are just throwing daggers and vexing. You can see as Godwin last last. Good thing you followed your gut instincts to Lagos.

As usual, your experience has valuable lessons. Thanks for sharing
God win oooo. I also thank you for all your inputs on NL. You are doing a great job!
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude: 12:09pm On Mar 22, 2017
Babatwi:
Haba ! You for don tell us say part 2 dey come now and that it ended in praise.lol
Glad it ended well for you.
Lol! Although I put part 1 in the first story, I still wanted you guys to digest the info first and understand it. Thank you.
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude: 11:53am On Mar 22, 2017
Kween2014:
Congratulations @shakidude, your story is quite an inspiring one. May God see you through the rest of the journey. God bless
Amen. Thanks and God bless.
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude: 11:28am On Mar 22, 2017
Ddoy2003:
good morning my wonderful family please a quick one in order to avoid chicago point of entry its my final destination though.what POE would u advise to get to chicago.pls its urgent.thank you.
I know JFK used to be stress free. Passed through several times.
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude:
Hello all,

Continuation of my experience.

Part 2:

After I was denied the visa renewal in Abuja, I contemplated going to Canada but found out that it takes about 4 month for visa processing and I'm far gone in my pregnancy. Hubby planned to send me to UK (I have a valid UK visa and family there.) since my pregnancy is high risk but me I was skeptical. If we are going to spend that much for birthing, it's better in the US where I get to have d health care that I want and also citizenship for my baby. I decided to try again this time in Lagos (exactly 2 weeks) as earlier adviced then by nefertitiram, misssexiest and others here but I went alone cos hubby was not interested.

Here goes the transcript:

VO: good morn ma'am
Me: good morn
VO: where are you going in the US and why?
Me: Texas and to have my baby
VO: what do you do?
Me: I'm a physical therapist(physiotherapist)
VO: what are your roles?
Me well composed, told him a lot about all I do
VO: nodding and smiling. Okay, let's say I have left shoulder dislocation, how are you going to manage it?
Me: in my mind, I was like, is this a promotion interview or visa interview? Still calm and smiling I told him about how i will first assess him and how I will rehabilitate him till he will regain  functional use of his limb.
VO: impressed. Now glanced to d screen and read for a while. Turned to me and said. I see that you were recently refused in abuja
Me: that's correct
VO: do you know why?
Me: No I don't she no kuku tell me. Na green paper she give me.
VO: I also see that you have applied for all your visas in Abuja. Why have you decided to come to Lagos this time?
Me: like I said earlier. I was refused in Abuja and couldnt understand why and I wanted to reapply as soon as possible and I was under the impression that I will get a faster date in Lagos.
VO: how much are you paying for the birth?
Me: this time, I didn't bother to ask whether na doctor's fee or total. My budget is 20k. About 8500 for the doctor and other expenses
VO: can i see ur Dr's correspondence
Me: handed it over and he read through it
VO: how much did you pay the last time
Me: Though the hospital fee was  4200, I rented an apartment and paid 1500, I flew to Arizona with my husband, I bought groceries and others so if I calculate everything, I will say about 8 to 9k
VO: why are you not going to this same hospital this time around?
Me: this time I'm going alone. I can't afford to stay alone in Arizona without my husband since I have no family or friend there. I'm going to Texas to stay with a friend.
VO: how did you find out about this hospital
Me: smiled and answered. I did research online.
VO: He began typing for so long ooooo and I'm like wow! I hope he's not going to deny me again. Na so I begin fire prayer
VO: looked at me and said excuse me ma'am. He went inside with my passport oooo. I knew i had done my best and he was impressed with me. So maybe he went inside for further discussions. I continued praying and asked God to take control.
VO: came out much later with a bright smile. Congratulations ma'am, your visa has been approved. At that point, I went to Cloud 7 abi na 9 self.
Me: thank you, thank you.

I prayed before I went and friends and family prayed with me. I give the glory  to God for directing me to the right person and staying with me throughout the process.

Conclusion: If you are really convinced in your heart that you have not done anything wrong, never lied during your application or interview but was still refused, apply again, go with confidence and state your case. Most importantly, avoid Abuja embassy now if you are pregnant and going for visa renewal, they already have a mindset for refusal and it would be very hard to convince them.

Good luck to others.
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude: 10:53am On Mar 22, 2017
@ Nefertitiram, sorry don't really know how to quote.

Lemme clarify some things.

2. You guys left bobo with a cousin and went together to US for 2 months... hummnnn

Now, you're sounding like her. Lol. Would I have allowed him to miss school for 2 months just to accompany us to America? Will he benefit anything from that? Its not holiday season you know and he has traveled abroad countless times. A child of 9year old that is comfortable around his extended family. All the children attend the same school.


B1 is for business and not for tourism... Is your son going on business? Also this may have led to her question on "did you buy stuff to supply while you were there. Seem hubby applied for B1 visa the first time too? I'm just assuming though.

Well, I mean the bi/b2 together, the one for pleasure and tourism for them. In my own application, I specified medical. I guess she asked that question cos sometimes we declare more than 10k when we travel so she is assuming maybe we re buying things to sell.
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude: 6:30pm On Mar 21, 2017
Hello all, I would like to share my experience with you. Sorry for the long post.

Part one:

I applied for Dropbox renewal in Feb at Abuja  with my husband and child but we were called for interview in march.

First, my background.
I have been travelling to USA since I had my masters there in 2008.

I go on annual vacation with my family to the USA and sometimes UK. (first UK visa was in 2004)

The visa I used for birthing in 2014 was issued in 2012, we all travelled in 2012 &  2013.  Renewed via Dropbox after, and travelled  in 2016. Visa expired in Jan 2017.

I used the popular MIHS and paid 4200.

So here goes my transcript at the Abuja embassy:

While in line, a VO was interviewing a pregnant lady and asked for d receipt of previous birth. She provided it and when she saw $4000, asked if it was vaginal or CS, the lady said vaginal and the VO replied while shaking her head and in a sarcastic way "why so low"? The lady replied, ehm! I got a discount, and the next thing, sorry you are not qualified at this time.

That VO was so harsh and we didn't  wish to go to her. We were later called by another lady VO and I was very calm and confident.

VO: good morning
Me: morn ma'am

VO: first thing without smiling: can you tell me about your 2014 trip?
Me: yes. I went to have my baby

Vo: can i see the receipt of payment?
Me: sure, handed her the MIHS maternity agreement and even told her to flip through to the last page where the actual receipt was then also handed her the zero balance

VO: well, this doesn't tell me anything, I don't know whether you had any complications and if you had more bills to pay. This is just an agreement
Me: I didn't have any complications and it's not just an agreement. It's a down payment and it's stated there that in case of any complications, one will have to pay more. I got the zero balance 4 months after delivery after it was confirmed that I didn't have any complications or outstanding bill.

VO: nodding and frowning, well it still doesn't tell me anything, anybody can come with zero balance. Do you have itemized bill?
Me: No. The Hosp only issued zero balance since I paid what we agreed on and did not owe them.

VO: okay, why didn't you  travel with your child at that time?
Me: it was during the sch year and he had to go to sch

VO: who did to leave him with?
Me: my cousin

VO: I still find it hard to believe you could leave your child and travel
Me: reteirated the fact that the child was in grade 4 at that time and needed to go to sch

VO: why did you stay for 2 months?
Me: in Nigeria, we have 4 months of maternity leave

VO: cuts in, I mean your husband
Me: well, I was heavily pregnant and went to a state I had never been to. My husband had to come with me to take care of me. He couldn't leave me alone. We got an apartment and he was by me throughout

VO: Still frowning, turns to my husband. What do you do?
Hubby: I'm a business man. Tells her the nature of his job

VO: I still cnt believe you could leave your job for 2 months
Hubby: I'm the owner of my company and I have people working for me. I still earn while I'm away

VO: Did you buy things to supply while over there?
Both of us:  No. just personal shopping

VO: Okay, are you pregnant now?
Me: yes. With obvious belly ooooh. I kukuma filled B2 in my application  and said I was going for 2 months. B1 for the others since they were not planning to travel with me. This time going to stay with a friend.

VO: how much are you paying this time?
Me: is it total? I asked cos my budget is 20k including airfare, shopping and miscellaneous

VO: Answered with a sharp NO. " only the doctors fee"
Me: 8500 (Dr fagbohun's quote oooh!)

At this point, she stopped asking questions and started typing. Honestly, I felt I answered all her questions well. Was so confident and composed.

I was shocked when she handed over the green paper explaining that she is sorry that we are not qualified at this time

Later, my son said, wow!  Mummy that woman was so mean, she didn't even smile at all.

Me I feel the woman already made up her mind from the onset that she was not going to grant the visa.
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedures Part 5 by shakidude: 1:30pm On Feb 13, 2017
Hello wonderful people, please, I have a question.

I submitted my passport for Dropbox last Monday, I checked today on the ceac (us embassy page) and it says its under administrative processing updated on the Thursday, 9th of February. I also checked us travel docs and the status has changed from your passport is with the US embassy to book an appointment. I have not received any mail from the embassy to come for interview. Pls for those that have been called for interview after submitting passport for Dropbox, Do I wait for an email from them or I should go ahead and book appointment because I really don't understand. Thanks.
TravelRe: Canadian Express Entry/federal Skilled Workers Program Connect Here by shakidude: 12:20pm On Feb 12, 2017
Thetherapist:
Hello. Is there any physiotherapist in this forum already in the pool, yet to get ITA. Kindly quote me. Thanks
Hello, I am a physiotherapist. I was directed to your topic on Nairaland but found out people were not contributing. I'm happy to find you here again on the general forum. I also want to begin the process. I have sent you a pm. I hope to hear from you. Thanks
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedure? by shakidude: 4:52am On Dec 16, 2014
happytbaby:
Hi Shakidude,

How are you and baby?

I am trying to remember exactly where you have the issue....I know scheduling appointments often give issues until I realized that once an email is on record, the website starts misbehaving so I just changed emails. If you are using Internet Explorere, you may also try Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox.

H
I do not understand the part about mistake with GTB payment and Abuja drop off though.
Hello Happytbaby. Thank for the reply. Baby is doing great. 6months now. How is ur LO tooM may God bless them all.

Well, u're absolutely right. It's because they have my profile in their system. The last time I renewed, I had d same problem and then used husbands email but now it just keeps recognising me when I enter passport details and DOB. I opened another email but it still didn't work. I've contacted them 3 times and they are working on my profile.
TravelRe: Give Birth In USA: Cost And Procedure? by shakidude: 12:00am On Dec 07, 2014
supamom:
Just keep trying their nigerian line as the us own doesnt seem to work. I had problem scheduling too and tried for days to call without success till i found out was a mtn network problem.
@supamum, pls what exactly do u mean by MtN network problem because I'm using MTN hynet to browse. Could that be d issue? Do u suggest I go to a cybercafe? And how did you overcome the difficulty then? Thanks

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