Specifics of the bogota interview, when to arrive when to plan to leave.

[aliendroid]

I was wondering how many days before the interview should we arrive in bogota and I thought it would be about 3 days after to leave. When they issue the visa they do it the next day right?

when did people do the medical exams and vaccinations?

Ok Law I'm gonna give you the low down on the interview. I am going to write a little book on the entire process and charge but you get it for free.
"I was wondering how many days before the interview should we arrive in bogota and I thought it would be about 3 days after to leave. " assuming you have it squared away you need a day for the bank and a day for the medical so at least 3 days.

"When they issue the visa they do it the next day right?" Yes assuming the next day is not a Saturday Sunday or Holiday because they are closed but I have heard of a Saturday issue but it is rare. So Friday may mean you wait til Monday or next available working day to get the visa. Go with her to the interview arrive by 5:00am even though it says 7:00am. you will be close to 1st in line. Wait any later you may be there all day.
Big C

[GrizGator]

Big C:

Just curious about a couple of things. First, you mention the "bank." What needs to be squared away at the bank? Anything pertaining to the visa?

Second, the thread talks about the husband going to the interview with the wife. Is that required? Optional? Is the husband actually permitted to sit in on the interview with the wife? My understanding is that he is not. Just curious...because I'll be going through the process eventually.

Thanks,
Griz

[Clay]

The bank accepts application payments for the embassy, don't loose your factura.
You are not required to go to the embajada with her AND they are not required to issue a visa when she comes alone for the interview and wants them to believe that you are her novio or esposo.

[GrizGator]

Thanks, Clay. So I guess it's a good idea to go to the embassy, even if you are not permitted in the interview. Makes your case stronger. I guess if you can plan to interview and her move to the states in the same trip, it makes sense. However, it's an awfully expensive trip if you are just going to the embassy. Things to think about for me.

Thanks again.

[Clay]

I heard that Peru and Colombia embassies are two of the hardest in world.
I have seen hundreds of good hearted, hard working Peruvians leave the embassy exits just crying thier eyes out with thier heads down in shame. men and women

[Charlie640]

I know thats VERY true of PERU and have friends who were turned down for tourist Visas. YES, I know we are not talking tourist Visas here... but you must really be in the upper strata of society and have a compelling ECONOMIC reason to return to Peru before they will consider giving you a tourist visa.

Guys one of the reasons I wanted to print a guide is the misinformation that goes around or is misinterpreted

"Thanks, Clay. So I guess it's a good idea to go to the embassy, even if you are not permitted in the interview."

I stood right next to my current wife during the 2 part interview which is done at 2 different windows (like a train station). Though I was not asked questions many before me have... so you are permitted to go to the interview and yes it betters your chances.

Do the vacinations a week before she has her physical at the embassy...and there's a reason for this.

[Charlie640]

Behind a window!?!? Are you atleast sitting down like visiting hours at the State Pen.. or are you standing up like at a bank teller?? Either way it SUCKS. How impersonal, tasteless and embarrassing for the Gringo!

I suppose its all done in the name of "security" as they are worried about VISA RAGE from those that are turned down and based on all the thumbs down they issue... maybe they should be worried.

[LastLion]

Hey Law, by the way it sounds like you are really close to bringing your girl home! Congrats, why don't you give us an update on how life has been going???