The US Embassy in London is an imposing building. With airport style security, and the accompanying long waits, just to get into the building it is enough to make anyone anxious. Add to that the months of planning and the weight of anticipation. One mistake here and it could be the end of the road.
Despite arriving early in the morning a large crowd had formed at the security checkpoint outside. After a long wait in-line with other visa applicants I finally made it into the building. A short elevator ride to the first floor lead me into a large hall, lined with kiosks, and screens displaying upcoming ticket numbers. Not unlike the Post Office. When my number was called out I headed over to start my interview.
Or so I thought. It turns out this was just a check-in where they could further validate my ID and application. They sent me to another kiosk where they took my fingerprints. And finally into the longest line of all which I was assured actually was for the interview.
When it was time for my interview, the courteous lady conducting it asked me a few questions:
- What am I going to do in the US? Hike the PCT!
- How am I getting 6 months off work? Sabbatical agreed.
- Enjoy your trip, visa approved!
I had brought a load of supporting documentation: funding, plans, sabbatical agreement, etc. but I wasn’t asked for any proof.
My passport arrived by post a week later with the visa inside.