Sim & Bek's Place

This whole Visa process is very stressful and complicated. Originally we didn't think we'd need to get a Visa as we were going for less than 3-months and not participating in paid work, which would allow us to use the Visa Waiver Program; however we decided to double-check and the US Consulate General recommended we apply for the B1/B2 Business and Tourism Visa as I am still doing unpaid work.

So then comes the stress of forms and interviews and applications, all only 4 weeks out from when we are booked to leave! Compounded by the fact that they don't recommend purchasing tickets until the Visa has been granted - bit late for that!!

We had our appointment today and it was very nerve-racking! Everything seemed to be traveling along nicely as we moved through the two security screening areas and received our ticket-number to wait in line. Upon approaching the Visa-man and providing our forms and letter of offer from Liquid he casually asked, "do you have the tax-exemption form from Liquid?"
"Uh.....what tax-exemption form is that?" we asked confused.
"You will need a tax-exemption form from Liquid to prove they are a not-for-profit entity and can offer the volunteer work."

Ouch.

We stood there shaking in our boots wondering if we were about to be sent away to get the form and come back another day - a day which we knew we didn't have!

He took the rest of our paperwork and asked us to sit back down and wait for another cashier who would approve/disapprove the Visa. So we sat down and waited for almost an hour, not knowing what would happen!

Finally our number was called and after a few simple questions about our intentions and our connection to Liquid they approved our Visa! Talk about a sigh of relief!! We couldn't stop smiling as we left the building as it now means that we are all confirmed and ready to go in only 3 weeks time!!!!

Very exciting!!