Wow, sounds like a nightmare! I'm glad I went the L1 route, although from what I hear the L1 renewals are aften declined whereas E2s are easier. At least with the L visa I could get realtime status updates online and could resolve issues over the phone with a dedicated line in Vermont for premium processing customers.
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by esprit
An E2 has to be filed at the embassy Roger, it isnt the same as an L1. You can only file in the US if you already have a visa to change status and even then it only gives you an I-94 and you have to resubmit to London and fly back for interview and visa stamp and even with USCIS approval London can still turn you down as they look at the application ab initio.
Papaya, an E2 application through London is currently taking at least 24 weeks to process and then another four weeks to get an interview appointment. If they request further information, you go back to the bottom of the pile, so another 24 weeks. I know people who have been asked for four lots!! Renewal is just the same. Total nightmare. By the time you renew its time to apply again for the next time. And you cant email, phone fax them to find out what is happening, they wont reply. There is a huge staff shortage, one person and an assistant dealing with all the applications. There isnt the same problem elsewhere, far fewer applications at other embassies. Know of someone who filed in Belgium who got through in one week. But you have to prove residence in the country you are filing in so most people dont get a choice.
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