A room, without a view

One would think of a room for the interview, something dramatic. No cigarette smoke, it's not cool these days, but nevertheless some inquisitive questions, raised eyebrows, sharp looks. Nothing like that, the process we went through was been very friendly, something that has been confirmed by many people in the following years.

The only thing missing, at least in Naples ( the only city in Italy where they handle immigration matters), was the room. Views, we got plenty, Naples was a rare treat. The whole interview process took and still takes two days, during which you will be medically examined, spend time at different counters, pay money, but never, ever, spend any time talking in a room. It might be different in other countries, and if you went through the process please tell us your story in the Forum.

I have moved the accounts of the interviews to the Notebook section, where you will be able to read several of them, from 1998 to 2005. So far, all of them come from people who have been interviewed in Naples. I would welcome interview accounts from other countries; if you have one contact me through the Forum, and I will be happy to publish it on the site.


Hot Spot - Crises

If you come from a country where there is a war or civil unrest that affects the operations of the Consulate, you have to make alternate plans because your Consulate might not be able to process visas.

Call them in advance, and make arrangements. If calling is an issue, check this list, which is kept and updated by the State Dept.