[sbatdorff]

I remember reading that I have to get the I-171 notarized...stating it's a valid document...blah, blah, blah. What happens next? I have a call into my agency but I'm so excited I could bust :-) Does it all then go to D.C. to get authenticated (i'm in N.C.) and then go to China? And then do we have the 6 month wait? I'm just so excited this hurdle is finally finished. :-)


Stefanie

[prechrswife]

First of all, do not get the original I-171H notarized. Make a photocopy, which you state is a true copy of the original, sign it, and get it notarized. The original document goes with you to China. The notarized copy, like your other dossier documents, then needs to be authenticated by the Secretary of State's office.

After everything has been state authenticated, the documents go to the consulate. We are in Georgia and all of our documents were from Georgia and Louisiana, so ours went to Houston, TX. Our agency actually handled this part for us. Some agencies do, and some do not. After the consulate, then your dossier is put together and sent to China. Some dossiers are translated before going to China. That depends on your agency. The 6 month (average--could be longer) wait starts with your DTC date, and your LID (which you may or may not find out, and may find out several months after the fact).

[soontobethree]

After the consulate in Guangzhou receives notification of your I-171 h approval, they may send you a "brown packet." This contains the forms and some explanation about what to expect in Guangzhou. Not everyone receives one though.

Melanie