From sanjay@ncat.edu Thu Oct  2 14:43:05 1997
Date: Sat, 8 Jun 1996 14:55:28 -0400
From: Sanjay Narayanappa (sanjay@ncat.edu)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Re: Memoirs of Toronto


Hi Sriram:
    I would appreciate if can send me a copy of your experience
you had in Toronto regarding getting multiple H1.

Thanks
sanjay
From mitra@aecom.yu.edu Thu Oct  2 14:43:11 1997
Date: Sat, 8 Jun 1996 17:55:32 -0400 (EDT)
From: Joydeep Mitra (mitra@aecom.yu.edu)
To: Sriram Ganapathy (sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com)
Subject: Memoirs of Toronto.

Sriram,

It would be most kind of view to please send me a copy of your memoirs.

Joydeep.
From kandipati_sreenivasarao@qmgate.anl.gov Thu Oct  2 14:43:27 1997
Date: 9 Jun 1996 18:19:33 -0600
From: Kandipati Sreenivasarao (kandipati_sreenivasarao@qmgate.anl.gov)
To: Sganapat (sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com)
Subject: Toronto experience

Hi,
Could you please send me your ecperiences file for multiple H1 from Toronto.
Thanks
Sreenivas

From madhavan@corp.cirrus.com Thu Oct  2 14:43:36 1997
Date: Fri, 7 Jun 96 18:18:39 PDT
From: Madhavan Bakthavatchalam (madhavan@corp.cirrus.com)
To: sriram@hub.eng.wayne.edu
Cc: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Hi !!


HI Mr. Sriram,


	Thanks for your information about your trip to

Toronto for Multiple entry.  I went to your http: site

and had chance to look at maduri dixit site too
{the Mad-dix site is great}.

I have a question for you regarding multiple entry.

I would really appreciate if you could reply soon.

When u call the 900# what are the details tehy ask for ??

how early from the appointment date should one call ??

example 15-20 day before the day you want the appointment

would be ok ??

Thanks, Hope to receive a response soon.

bye for now

Madhavan
From kartheek@enuxsa.eas.asu.edu Thu Oct  2 14:43:41 1997
Date: Fri, 7 Jun 1996 17:17:56 -0700 (MST)
From: "Kartheek V. Hirode" (kartheek@enuxsa.eas.asu.edu)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Toronto


  Hello Sriram,

  Your Memoir was great till I got to the last line...most F1's rejected!!

  Did u overhear why they were rejected or any other impressions..
 
  i'd really appreciate if u can put on yr memory cap and respond.

  thx, bye.
  ___________________________________________________________________________
   			Kartheek V. Hirode 		    
     Design Automation Lab.,Arizona State Univ., Tempe, AZ-85287. 
           950 South Terrace Road, A-208, Tempe, AZ-85281.  
     School : (602) 965-3423 / 965-7150;     Home: (602) 968-3506
       Email:hirode@asu.edu;  Fax: (602)965-2412 Attn:Kartheek  
  ___________________________________________________________________________ 

From vishy@uk.ibm.com Thu Oct  2 14:43:48 1997
Date: Mon, 10 Jun 1996 06:26:57 EDT
From: Vishy (vishy@uk.ibm.com)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Visa question


Sriram,

I plan to visit the US embassy in London for stamping my H-1B.

Can you tell me what are the documents to be carried with me?
Should I carry original or is xerox enough?

Thansk in advance
Vishy

B Viswanath ; Mail: CROVM4(8balasv) or Vishy@uk.ibm.com
It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice.
*** ' May everybody in this world be happy always ' ***********
From umesh.veeraia@cbis.com Thu Oct  2 14:43:53 1997
Date: Mon, 10 Jun 1996 09:37:00 -0400
From: Umesh Veeraiah (umesh.veeraia@cbis.com)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com


Hi Sriram,
I am planning on a trip to Canada for the Multiple Entry Visa.  I am sure
your experience will surely help me out on this trip.  Can you please 
email me a copy to 'umesh.veeraia@cbis.com'


Thanks in advance
Umesh
umesh.veeraia@cbis.com



From l064346@geaux1.appl.ge.com Thu Oct  2 14:44:00 1997
Date: Mon, 10 Jun 96 11:00:51 EDT
From: Koteswara Rao (l064346@geaux1.appl.ge.com)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Your Toronto trip experience


Hi Sriram,

I saw your message on internet about your trip to Canada.Even I am planning
to go there to get multiple entry stamp.If you can send me the details of
the trip, that will be great.

my e-mail address l064346@geaux1.appl.ge.com

Thank you in advance.

Rao
From apoorva@engin.umich.edu Thu Oct  2 14:44:03 1997
Date: Mon, 10 Jun 1996 11:13:02 -0400
From: Apoorva Agarwal (apoorva@engin.umich.edu)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: H1 visa from Toronto

Hi,

Please send me a copy of your experiences in Toronto.  

Thanks.

Apoorva Agarwal
From Vijay_Venbakkam/OriginNA.ORIGINNA@wing.otb.com Thu Oct  2 14:44:08 1997
Date: 10 Jun 96 11:07:16 EDT
From: Vijay Venbakkam/OriginNA
     (Vijay_Venbakkam/OriginNA.ORIGINNA@wing.otb.com)
To: sganapat (sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com)
Cc: Vijay Venbakkam/OriginNA (Vijay_Venbakkam/OriginNA@wing.otb.com)
Subject: Info. on Toronto visa requested.

Hi Ganapathy,  I am very interested in obtaining info. on getting a multi-entry 
H1 & H4 visa at the Toronto U.S. consulate in Canada.  I did notice your info. 
on getting the same [your memoirs] from the WWW, but I don't have access to the 
same.  Can you please send me the info. ASAP to "VVENBAKK@OTB.COM"?  Also, if 
you have any info. on the GC processing times' variation between some of the 
faster and some of the slower states in the US [for the total Labor Cert. + 
I-140 + I-485], can you please forward them to me, or if/where I can find it in 
the WWW [from a friend's PC], for another friend of mine who's desperate to get 
that input now.

Thanks very much in advance,

Vijay Venbakkam,
Mt. Laurel, New Jersey.

From mkotam1@icarus.cc.uic.edu Thu Oct  2 14:44:12 1997
Date: Mon, 10 Jun 1996 10:37:48 -0500 (CDT)
From: Mythyly Kotamarty (mkotam1@icarus.cc.uic.edu)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: H1 Multiple Entry Visa!

To,
Mr. Sriram ganapathy.

I have read your mail in India Digest and since I do not have access to
the WEB presently, would you be kind enough to send me a copy of your
list? I would also appreciate it if you could tell me which hotel you
stayed at and how far it was from the embassy ASAP since I have an
appointment on the 17th of this month. Also do you know if they stop
re-entry into the US if the multiple visa is rejected?

Thanks very much.

Mythyly


From paddy@nmgate.perfect.att.com Thu Oct  2 14:44:16 1997
Date: Mon, 10 Jun 1996 09:21:48 -0400 (EDT)
From: Paddy Raghunathan (paddy@nmgate.perfect.att.com)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Some info required

Sriram Ganapathy,

I knew one such person by the same name when I was
at Bombay from 1976-79. My father was in the Navy
then. Likewise, Sriram's father was in the Navy too
and we were staying at Navynagar, Colaba.

Are you the same person? If so you must have two
older sisters. 

Please reply to this mail. 

Best wishes,

Padmanabhan Raghunathan
(Vasu)
From AMISHRA@agecon.uga.edu Thu Oct  2 14:44:20 1997
Date: Sun, 9 Jun 1996 15:10:53 EST
From: "ANURAG MISHRA (GRAD)" (AMISHRA@agecon.uga.edu)
To: sriram@hub.eng.wayne.edu
Subject: Standing in Line


Hi Sriram!

How U doing?
I read your memoire & it was very helpful.
I have two quick Questions. 

1) My interview appointment is at 8.30am, June-14. ( I am applying for 
an F- 1). 
What time I should be at Consulate. Do I still need to stand in the 
line. I plan to reach there by 7am. Will it be too eraly or too late? 
When was your appointment & what time U go. Can I just walk in at 
8am, show the appointment letter & get in?

2) Your remark that most F-1 applications were rejected is pretty 
scary. Could U please elaborate (if U know about any of those cases)
like what they were asked & why they were rejected.

Thank U in advance.

Anurag.



----------------------------------------------------------------------

Anurag Mishra.                      
235, Sycamore Drive,                      309, Conner Hall,
R-7, Athens                               Dept. Ag & Apllied Econ.
GA-30605-3444                             UGA, Athens
                                          GA-30602-7509

(706) 613 7592  (Home)                    (706) 542 0854 (Work)


QUOTE OF THE DAY: 

     "Man never made any material as resilient as the Human spirit."
                                                   Bern Williams.
From immigration@murthy.com Thu Oct  2 14:44:29 1997
Date: Sun, 9 Jun 1996 00:22:15 -0400
From: Sheela Murthy (immigration@murthy.com)
To: Sriram Ganapathy (sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com)
Subject: Re: H1-ME in Toronto : Memoirs

Dear Sriram:

Do let us know where the FAQ will be located. Thanks!

Sheela Murthy

)I'm planning on compiling a FAQ.  So if you have any questions send me a
)mail.


++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sheela Murthy has a Masters Degree in Law (LL.M.) from Harvard Law School
in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. She is an active member of the American
Immigration Lawyers Association. Her area of concentration is U.S.
Immigration and Nationality Law.

*Please note the new e-mail & website address below.*

LAW OFFICE OF SHEELA MURTHY
10451 MILL RUN CIRCLE
SUITE 400
OWINGS MILLS, MD 21117^^5577
voice : 410-356-8830
fax : 410-356-8804
e-mail : immigration@murthy.com
WWW Page -  http://www.murthy.com
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


From nibhanum@cs.rpi.edu Thu Oct  2 14:44:33 1997
Date: Mon, 10 Jun 96 13:14:19 EDT
From: nibhanum@cs.rpi.edu
To: sriram@hub.eng.wayne.edu
Subject: Toronto Consulate info 


Hello,

I visited your website to read your H1 renewal experience in Toronto.
Thanks for the information. 

I am planning on going to Toronto to renew my F1 visa. (I have a
conference to attend in Europe in August. ) If I call the 900 number
now, how soon can I expect to get an appointment ? I assume that the
availability dates will be different for different comsulates in
Toronto/Montreol/Ottawa. 

I also want to know your advice on this (remember that I am going for
F1). Do you have information for or against different consulates in
Toronto/Montreol/Ottawa ? From Albany, NY all three are equally
accessible. If any consulate is same, then I can probably pick the one
where I can get the earliest appointment.

Thanks,
Mohan
From hbeen013@dewey.csun.edu Thu Oct  2 14:44:38 1997
Date: Mon, 10 Jun 1996 16:53:42 -0700 (PDT)
From: srinivasan svresh (hbeen013@dewey.csun.edu)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: H1 Multiple Info please.


Hi Sriram

	Please mail me your experiences at US counsulate in TORONTO. I 
planning to get Multiple H1 this month. Your advice please...

Thank You
Satish

From MaheshBhalgat@probes.com Thu Oct  2 14:44:44 1997
Date: Mon, 10 Jun 1996 17:18:48 -0008
From: Mahesh Bhalgat (MaheshBhalgat@probes.com)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Memoirs of Toronto!

Hi,
    Can you please send me a copy of the memoirs?  Also, do you have 
a copy of the details posted by another netter regarding obtaining an 
H-1 visa from Vancouer.  Those were posted about 1-2 months on IDD  
with the 900 number to call and the motel to stay in and everything 
else.  
Thank you very much.
------------------------------
Mahesh K. Bhalgat, Ph.D.
Eugene, OR 97402

email: mahesh@probes.com
-----------------------------
From nibhanum@cs.rpi.edu Thu Oct  2 14:44:48 1997
Date: Mon, 10 Jun 96 14:29:37 EDT
From: nibhanum@cs.rpi.edu
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Toronto Consulate info 


Thank you very much for a prompt response.

   I think if you can prove that you have a seminar in Europe, and make it
   clear when you make an appointment, you should be fairly safe.  But, be
   advised that the consulate might ask you the reason why you don't want to
   apply in Europe?  You could say that your duration of stay would be 3 days
   or something and you don't have time to apply in Europe.

I have a paper accepted at this conference. I will take a letter from
my advisor that I need to attend the conference. Do you think that
will be sufficient or do I need to show proof of travel arrangments ?
I am planning to tell them that I will buy the ticket after I get the
visa since the ticket is non-refundable. (That is actually the case -
I am still trying to get some money from the dept for my trip). I can
probably make some arrangment for my stay as proof.

I should also mention that I am married and my wife will be with me
for this trip. Will they question why we need multiple F2 for her ? Do
I have to say that she will be coming with me to Europe ? Or will they
automatically give her when they are convinced of my case ?

** Also, when I call for appointment can I ask for a date soon to enable
me to make travel arrangments ? Do they consider this as a legitimate
reason ?

   I'd suggest either Toronto or Ottawa, Montreal had a H-1 ME reject some
   time back, asking the person to apply in India!

I too heard of a recent case of F1 reject (for a Joprdanian student)
at Montreol.  Actually, I know of a couple (F1&F2) who were rejected
in Toronto, but got the 2nd time.


Thanks for all your time,

Mohan

   ---
   Sriram Ganapathy
   Reliability Engg.
   Ford Motor Corporation

   Opinions expressed are my own and not necessarily those of Ford Motor Co.



From hthummal@trecom.com Thu Oct  2 14:44:52 1997
Date: Tue, 11 Jun 1996 10:51:47 -0600
From: "Thummaluru, Hari" (hthummal@trecom.com)
To: "'sganapat@ford.com'" (sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com)
Subject: No Subject


hai sri ram
     
 I am intersted to know some details about H1 multiple.
 Do they askk for degree certificates at consulate.
 I will appreciate your reply.
 
Thanks. hari
   

From RamannaS@ccmail.aads.JHU.edu Thu Oct  2 14:44:56 1997
Date: Tue, 11 Jun 1996 10:48:24 -0500 (est)
From: RamannaS (RamannaS@ccmail.aads.JHU.edu)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Toronto Experience

     Hi Sriram:
     
     I intend going to Toronto for my H-1B. I am interested in your 
     experiences. I don't have web access. I would appreciate your 
     assistance in this regard. I have a few typical questions:
     
     1. What is the 900 number I need to call to call in order to schedule 
     an appointment.
     
     2. How long before do I need to schedule the appoinment? I have heard 
     that the minimum waiting time ( to get an apointment) is 3 weeks.
     
     3. What are the papers I need to take with me ?
        -- If the list is very long and will take too much of your time, 
     could you please give me pointers as to where I can find the 
     information ?
     
     4. What is the success rate in Toronto ?
     
     5. How lomg do I have to stay in Toronto ?
     
     6. Do I need to apply for a Canadian Visa in order to enter Canada?
     
     7. If my Visa gets rejected, can I still enter the US?
     
     8. Is there any vital matter that an H1-B applicant needs to know ?
     
     9. Could you send me a copy of your 'Toronto Experience' ?
     
     Thank you very much for your time. 
     
     Sincerely,
     
     Satyan Ramanna (RamannaS@aads.jhu.edu)

From VAIDYA04@CCVAX.MMC.EDU Thu Oct  2 14:45:01 1997
Date: Tue, 11 Jun 1996 12:39:52 -0500 (CDT)
From: VAIDYA04@CCVAX.MMC.EDU
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: regarding H-1

hi,
I read your posting in the net I am planning to go to Toronto for
my H-1 soon. I would appreciate if you can give relevant info about
the documents to be taken and the consulate phone no. to make an
appointment. Do we have to surrender the I-94 at the time of interview?
Thanks in advance
Mani
From immigration@murthy.com Thu Oct  2 14:45:07 1997
Date: Wed, 12 Jun 1996 12:02:19 -0400
From: Sheela Murthy (immigration@murthy.com)
To: Sri Ganapathy (sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com)
Subject: Re: H1-ME in Toronto : Memoirs

Dear Sriram:

I will pass on this info to Attorney Murthy. Thank you!

Mary Adams
Administrative Assistant

)Hi Ms Murthy:
)
)Its on http://www.cs.wayne.edu/~trg/h1.html  I didn't have the time for
)the FAQ.  But I have a checklist and some question/answers.
)
)- Sriram
)


++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sheela Murthy has a Masters Degree in Law (LL.M.) from Harvard Law School
in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. She is an active member of the American
Immigration Lawyers Association. Her area of concentration is U.S.
Immigration and Nationality Law.

*Please note the new e-mail & website address below.*

LAW OFFICE OF SHEELA MURTHY
10451 MILL RUN CIRCLE
SUITE 400
OWINGS MILLS, MD 21117^^5577
voice : 410-356-8830
fax : 410-356-8804
e-mail : immigration@murthy.com
WWW Page -  http://www.murthy.com
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


From VAIDYA04@CCVAX.MMC.EDU Thu Oct  2 14:45:14 1997
Date: Wed, 12 Jun 1996 11:21:21 -0500 (CDT)
From: VAIDYA04@CCVAX.MMC.EDU
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Re: regarding H-1

hi,
Thank you very much for providing all the details about Toronto/H-1.
I appreciate your efforts in giving the complete picture.
Mani
From jjin@eniac.seas.upenn.edu Thu Oct  2 14:45:18 1997
Date: Thu, 13 Jun 1996 02:44:57 -0400 (EDT)
From: Jason Jin (jjin@eniac.seas.upenn.edu)
To: sriram@hub.eng.wayne.edu
Subject: RE: Memoirs of Toronto

Hi, Sriram,

I read your postiing on the newsgroups ,also check out your homepage 
mensioned in it. The information you priovided in really helpful. I 'm 
wondering can you help me get an opinion on this matter: 

I'm trying to book a appointment for h-1 visa at Toronto, but since it's 
booked up to three weeks , I need  get a h-1 visa in a hurry in order to
leave U.S. with a peaceful mind, I'm trying to find out the 
possibility that, do  they take applicant without an appointment? 

I read a posting in in this newsgroup last week, from somebody who  
back from Toronto weekes ago, said they'll still take you in , even 
they 'll tell you need appointment next time.  

Can you help me confirm or comment on this?  have you saw anybody 
them without appointment on your trip? Thank you very much for the help.

_______

Jason Jin
School of Engineering
Computer Science Dept.
University of Pennsylvania
215-898-2407(H)

"You are over disk quota, please reduce.."

From kulkash@mail.auburn.edu Thu Oct  2 14:45:23 1997
Date: Fri, 14 Jun 1996 15:52:58 -0500 (CDT)
From: Shirishkumar Kulkarni (kulkash@mail.auburn.edu)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Memoirs of Toronto



Could you please send me details?

Thanks,

Shirish (Kulkash@mail.aubrun.edu)



From nobody@list.ufl.edu Thu Oct  2 14:45:29 1997
Date: Tue, 18 Jun 1996 11:21:35 -0400
From: nobody@list.ufl.edu

WWW Mail:
   Request host 206.3.171.45
   Request address 206.3.171.45
   Request user (null)
Number entries: 3

)Keshav Dev
)dev@keithley.com
)Hi,
My question is regarding H1-Multiple entry.
I want to get H1 Multiple entry at Toronto. 
I'm not getting the 1-900-443 3131 for making appointment.
. I tried today between 7 and 9.00am(EST). 
Always I was getting busy tone.
did you had the same problem? What is the good time
to call. 

Thanks a lot

Keshav Dev
End

From nibhanum@cs.rpi.edu Thu Oct  2 14:45:39 1997
Date: Wed, 19 Jun 96 10:52:07 EDT
From: nibhanum@cs.rpi.edu
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Making appt with Amer consulate


Hello,

I have been trying to make an appointment through the 900 number service.
I am unable to call this number (1 900 443 3131) from my area (Albany, NY).
So my friend in Chicago is trying to make an appointment for me. He could
talk to the 900 service people one afternoon , when they took all details
and created files for me and my wife. They advised him to call the next
morning to make an apoointment. Since then, every morning he has been tying
from 7am to 9pam. During this period, the number is always busy. After 9am,
he gets through. At this point they do not make appointments. They ask him
to call again the next day. This repeated for the last 3 days. He is afraid
the same thing will repeat tomorrow and after that too. 

Since you used the service, I would like to hear about your experience.
Was it this difficult for you when you tried ? Or is this problem specific
to us ?

Thanks,

Mohan
From u11104@uicvm.cc.uic.edu Thu Oct  2 14:45:43 1997
Date: Sat, 29 Jun 1996 10:03:10 -0500
From: "Ananda P. Sen" (u11104@uicvm.cc.uic.edu)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com

Dear friend:
I would highly appreciate in receiving the details about your recent H1 visa
experience in Toronto.
Thanks
Ananda Sen

From hthummal@trecom.com Thu Oct  2 14:45:49 1997
Date: Mon, 01 Jul 1996 10:08:24 -0600
From: "Thummaluru, Hari" (hthummal@trecom.com)
To: "'sganapat@ford.com'" (sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com)
Subject: H1 information requested


Hai Ganapati

 Please mail me any Information you can send On H1 . If you could mail me   
details of your trip to toronto (Memoirs of Toronto) That will be a great   
help.

thanks
HARI
hthummal@trecom.com


From SanjivSona@aol.com Thu Oct  2 14:45:59 1997
Date: Mon, 1 Jul 1996 12:03:49 -0400
From: SanjivSona@aol.com
To: sriram@hub.eng.wayne.edu
Cc: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: H1 Multiple inToronto

Hi Sriram,

I got your article on H1 Multi experience in Toronto, really valuable for
people like me who is planning to visit Toronto consulate 2nd week of July.

Sriram, is it possible for you to describe more in detail some of the reasons
you may have in mind for being rejected - Like you had mentioned people with
unrelated proffession may have some problem.  I am one of those !!, Like I
changed school and then I have not even completed my Graduation and have
started the job on H1.

Can you throw me some light on such a scenario, I very well know that you are
not expert on these issues, but if have come across this type of cases while
you were trying for your Multi.   

I tried calling you but some how Ford's number does not get to you and your
other number I got no reply !!!   

Again thank you very much for the information !!!!

Regards,

Sanjiv Parikh
415-259-9595 Work
415-903-9896 Home

From saudaa@arrowsmith.com Thu Oct  2 14:46:12 1997
Date: Fri, 12 Jul 96 16:43:42 CDT
From: Asma Saudagar (saudaa@arrowsmith.com)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: H1-multiple entry info

 
) Hello Sriram,
) I found "Memoirs of Toronto June-7,96" on the net.
) but I couldnt access http://www.cs.wayne.edu/~trg/h1.html.
) 
) Can you forward that to me?
) Thanks,
) Asma 
) saudaa@arrowsmith.com
) 

From ahmed@chaos.ocean.fsu.edu Thu Oct  2 14:46:19 1997
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 1996 01:41:55 -0400
From: Rizwan Ahmed (ahmed@chaos.ocean.fsu.edu)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: HI

Hi Sriram,
I am a desi currently doing my masters at the Florida State University.
I came here last fall on a single entry 1 year student visa(in spite
of my I-20 being valid for 3 years).I need to get an extension
on my F-1 visa to at least the period mentioned on the I-20 form.
Which is why i am going to Toronto.
Cud U please advise me about the current situation at the US consulate
there.I'll highly appreciate your gesture coz this is keeping me
very tense.
Thanks in anticipation.
                                           sincerely,
                                           Riz
Rizwan Ahmed
From venkatas@icaen.uiowa.edu Thu Oct  2 14:46:27 1997
Date: Wed, 24 Jul 1996 20:35:39 -0500 (CDT)
From: venkatas@icaen.uiowa.edu
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Help

Hi:

Thanks for the detailed info in the web
on your visa visit. It is very useful for aspiring 
"pilgrims" like myself. I have a problem though. 
I am trying to call 1-900-443-3131 to fix an 
appointment for H1 ME and the message I have been 
getting is "Your call cannot be completed as dialed. Pl check
and dial again". My questions:

1. Is the number I have right ?
2. At what time of the day I should call ? My time
zone is Central standard time. I have been calling
roundabout 7.00 a.m (c.s.t) and getting the above
message. Am I calling too early ? Too late ?

I appreciate any input you can provide. Thanks again.

Srinivasan
From arvind@eye.com Thu Oct  2 14:48:07 1997
Date: Mon, 05 Aug 96 13:20:00 E
From: Arvind Shirur (arvind@eye.com)
To: "'smtp:sganapat@ford.com'" (sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com)
Subject: H-1B Mutiple


Hi Sriram :

My name is Arvind. I am attending the interview at the US Consulate in 
Toronto for applying H-1B Multiple Visa on Aug. 7. Your memoirs of Toronto 
trip have been very helpful. I have a few questions on the trip. It would be 
great help if you answered the following questions. If you prefer to answer 
by phone, please mail back your number, so that I can call you.

1. When you were entering Canada, did you need to surrender any document to 
the Canadian inspectors at the border ? I was told NOT to surrender any I-94 
(OLD or NEW). Is there ANY document which they would ask to keep ?

2. What happens when entering US ? Did you need to surrender ANY document to 
the US inspectors at the border.

3. Did you need to get Canadian Dollars before you left ? Are US dollars 
widely accepted, and there is no need for any Canadian Dollars ?

4. Is there any latest news that you've heard ?

Thanks very much !

 -Arvind

(607)266-0824, hom
(607)257-1381 (x1023), off
arvind@eye.com

From bagchi@watson.ibm.com Thu Oct  2 14:48:44 1997
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 15:52:49 -0400
From: Sugato Bagchi (bagchi@watson.ibm.com)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: "Memoirs of Toronto"

Hi,

Thanks for the useful information in your "Memoirs of Toronto." I will
be visiting there next week for my H1 ME visa. One question: You
mention that you were at the US consulate gates by 6am. Is this still
necessary when I already have an appointment? Or is it the case that
if you arrive at 8am, you will be at the end of a long line? Just
curious.

Sugato

PS: There is a slight change in the appointment making process since
you wrote about it. When you call the 900 number now (and get through),
you can make an appointment only for the day which is 20 days away. As
you can imagine, the phone lines are always busy every morning and by
the time you get through, all the appointments for the target date are
booked...

From arvind@eye.com Thu Oct  2 14:48:49 1997
Date: Thu, 15 Aug 96 10:44:00 E
From: Arvind Shirur (arvind@eye.com)
To: sganapat (sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com)
Subject: Re: H-1B Mutiple


Hi Sriram :
How are you doing ?
I was lucky to get the H-1B Mutiple visa. I had some problems in the 
interview. She had some problem with the fact that my degree is in Mech Engg 
and I am doing software development. To her Mech is building cars, and 
aeroplanes. What she couldn't readily grasp is that I am building tools (CAD 
Tools) for Mech Engineers. Knowledge of Mech is essential. She wanted to see 
my transcripts. When I showed 'em, it was not what she wanted. She wanted 
"Program of study". Fortunately I had taken it with me. I also showed her my 
company catalogs to prove that we are making CAD Tools. Initially, I did a 
very subtle mistake. I tried to prove that my courses had prepared me for 
this job (software development). That was wrong. What she was looking for 
was evidence to show my job has something to do with Mech. But by this time 
however, she had made her mind to have me wait for the second interview. And 
after about 30 min of waiting, they told me that they are giving me the visa 
! I have no idea, how they came to the decision. Off course, I didn't wait 
to ask. All is well that ends well.

 -Arvind
 ----------
From: sganapat
To: Arvind Shirur
Subject: Re: H-1B Mutiple
Date: Monday, August 05, 1996 12:28PM


Hi, my # is :

Work Phone : (313) 322-6999 Toll Free : (800) 509-FORD

 ---
Sriram Ganapathy
Reliability Engg.
http://eth305.eld.ford.com/~sganapat/

Opinions expressed are my own and not necessarily those of Ford Motor Co.

From nathans@VNET.IBM.COM Thu Oct  2 14:48:52 1997
Date: Thu, 15 Aug 96 10:47:10 EDT
From: nathans@VNET.IBM.COM
To: SMTP2@VNET.IBM.COM, sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Re: Obtaining multiple entry for H1B in canada.

From: Nathan, EDI Products and Services
      Advantis,
Subject: Re: Obtaining multiple entry for H1B in canada.

Hello Sriram,
    I read your informative article on obtaining multiple entry visas
in Canada.   If it is inappropriate to contact you thru' email,  I
sincerely apologize.  Perhaps you could advise me where to post some of
the questions that I have.

I work as a consultant to Advantis, a subsidary of IBM(&sears) and
work on messaging products development.  I have a degree in IE and I am
on H1-B visa.  I hear all kinds of horror stories about Juarez and
decided to get the multiple entry in Canada.   I live in Tampa, FL
and would like to find out where should I go in Canada.  You have
detailed about Toronto and you also posted some netters opinion
subsequently.  I understand that there is always chances of rejecetion
anywhere but I would like your opinion as to where should I make the trip
in Canada.I am from Madras and did my bachelors in suratkal REC, and
my masters in USF.  I have a couple of friends from Wayne who are working
in GTE, one of them is Vatsan.  I also had a senior (from REC) who
did material science there and also passed away in an accident.  His
name is Srikkanth.   I dont know how long you have been there but these
folks were there in '90-93 period.
Thanks again.
Sriram Swaminathan.

Tie line:  8-438-5494   Internet: NATHANS@VNET.IBM.COM
Fax Line:  8-438-5247   IBMMAIL ID: USIB6QD8
Location:  SPEC 2256    MailBox: S201
From rxbutal0@wcc.com Thu Oct  2 14:48:56 1997
Date: Thu, 5 Sep 1996 10:33:38 -0600
From: rxbutal0 (rxbutal0@wcc.com)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Toronto memoirs

     Hi,
     
     With ref. to your posting on IDD (June '96) reg. your experiences at 
     Toronto, I was unable to access the web site.  If you have a write-up 
     that is already compiled, could u please e-mail it to me? 
     
     Thanks a lot.
     
     Reshmi
     
     E-mail:  RXBUTAL0@WCC.COM
From namasivc@dgabby.mfldclin.edu Thu Oct  2 14:48:59 1997
Date: Sat, 14 Sep 1996 14:33:25 -0500
From: "Dr. Chuck Namasivayam" (namasivc@dgabby.mfldclin.edu)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: getting a visa in canada

From: namasivc                Sat Sep 14, 1996 -- 02:12:04 PM
To: sganapat@ford.com~@
Hello Sriram,
              Thank you for posting the information regarding obtaining a US 
visa in canada. I did MBBS in India and came here as a Phd (microbiology)
 student on F-1 visa. After completing MS in Microbiology I changed status to 
J-1 to do residency in Internal Medicine. Usually J-1 ME visas are easily 
obtained in Canada especially since we have the burden of 2 year home 
residency requirement. One of my friend's wife changed from F2 to J-1 two 
years ago. But I dont know about the cuurent situation.

              I desparately want to visit India this year. Have you heard 
about anyone like me? Any information/suggestion will be gratefully 
appreciated. For some reason I couldnt access the visa discussion groups from 
here.

Thank you.

Chokkalingam.
NAMASIVC@MFLDCLIN.EDU                                                                         
From rxbutal0@wcc.com Thu Oct  2 14:49:03 1997
Date: Tue, 17 Sep 1996 18:47:46 -0600
From: rxbutal0 (rxbutal0@wcc.com)
To: Sriram Ganapathy (sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com)
Subject: Re[2]: Toronto memoirs

     Hi,
     
     Thanks for sending me info. on the H-1 mult. issue.  
     
     One thing that I am still confused about is Form OF 156.  Do u have to 
     have it before you go to Canada? And if so, will I get it with the 
     appointment kit?
     
     Thanks a lot
     
     Reshmi
From kumar@sugar-land.mis.slb.com Thu Oct  2 14:49:10 1997
Date: Tue, 24 Sep 1996 13:38:31 -0500
From: Rama Kumar (kumar@sugar-land.mis.slb.com)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Re: your web site


Dear Mr. Ganapathy,

Hi!

I was browsing through the web page on the h1 topic and tried getting
into your web site.  I get the 404 error: the requested html was not
found on this server.

If you don't mind could you email it to me.  Also, I am planning to
go to Mexico consulate but I haven't seen a lot of information on
people's experiences in Mexico consulates on getting h1 multiple.
If you know someone could you pass on their reference to me.
Thanks and sorry for any inconvenience.

Rama
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Rama Kumar		kumar@sugar-land.mis.slb.com
ABAP Analyst		Ph: 713-275-4694
MIS - BASIS		Fax:713-275-8904
Schlumberger


From kumar@sugar-land.mis.slb.com Thu Oct  2 14:49:16 1997
Date: Wed, 09 Oct 1996 09:16:32 -0500
From: Rama Kumar (kumar@sugar-land.mis.slb.com)
To: Sriram Ganapathy (sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com)
Subject: Re: your web site

Dear Mr. Ganapathy,

The web site you had pointed to had a lot of information.  I thank you
for the same and your prompt reply.    

Rama

At 02:40 PM 9/24/96 -0400, you wrote:
)
)Check out www.students.eng.wayne.edu/~sg3/h1.html
)
)---
)Sriram Ganapathy
)Reliability Engg.
)http://acd_reliability.eld.ford.com/~sganapat/
)
)Opinions expressed are my own and not necessarily those of Ford Motor Co.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Rama Kumar		kumar@sugar-land.mis.slb.com
ABAP Analyst		Ph: 713-275-4694
MIS - BASIS		Fax:713-275-8904
Schlumberger


From rpulapak@cincom.com Thu Oct  2 14:49:23 1997
Date: Wed, 16 Oct 1996 16:36:39 -0400
From: Ramesh Pulapaka (rpulapak@cincom.com)
To: "'sganapat@ford.com'" (sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com)
Subject: HI..

Hi,

I would like to say thanks for the info. you posted on the network about ur memoirs in toronto.  It is very informative and of course, helpful.  That's where I got ur address from though.  I am planning to go there this month ending to test my luck.  Just thought of thanking you for sharing your experience.

-Ramesh.

e-mail:	rpulapak@cincom.com
 


************************************************************************************************                        
3793 FoxRun Dr. #205           ~.      .~                  rpulapak@cincom.com                               
Cincinnati, OH - 45236                 |                         pulapaka@hewey.cincom.com
                                                    V
Phone: (513) 677-7674 (Off) 
            (513) 794-9048 (Res)

                                "Life ain't no fun without problems"

************************************************************************************************




From psg@cliff.inetinc.com Thu Oct  2 14:49:35 1997
Date: Mon, 21 Oct 1996 15:33:43 -0500
From: "Prem S. Gangalakunta" (psg@cliff.inetinc.com)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: Toronto H1 experience


Hi Sriram

Can U mail me Ur Toronto H1 Experiences to me ASAP? I am leaving for Toronto 
tomorrow.

ThanX,
Prem
From rxbutal0@wcc.com Thu Oct  2 14:49:46 1997
Date: Wed, 27 Nov 1996 09:59:15 -0700
From: rxbutal0 (rxbutal0@wcc.com)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Subject: H-1 mult

     
     Hi,
     
     Thanks a lot for the e-mail you had sent me a few weeks back,
     reg. H-1 mult.  I was able to get mine without any problems
     at Toronto.
     You still have to stand in a line outside the consulate even 
     after spending money on those 1-900 calls to get an appointment.
     
     Reshmi
From ak494@rgfn.epcc.Edu Thu Oct  2 14:49:51 1997
Date: Wed, 18 Dec 96 10:24:47 MST
From: "Raja C. Bhandarkar" (ak494@rgfn.epcc.Edu)
To: sriram@hub.eng.wayne.edu
Subject: H-1 visa ext at Toronto


Sriram,
	I just had a few questions. did you stay at any hotel at Toronto? 
Do you know any cheap one ? Do you know if I want to rent a car at the 
Toronto airport , do I do it in advance?
Thanks in advance
Raja
From fransisco@hotmail.com Thu Oct  2 14:49:56 1997
Date: Fri, 07 Feb 1997 22:51:11 -0600
From: Fransisco Black (fransisco@hotmail.com)
To: sriram@nova.eng.wayne.edu
Subject: Please stick this to your homepage

    [The following text is in the "iso-8859-1" character set]
    [Your display is set for the "US-ASCII" character set]
    [Some characters may be displayed incorrectly]

Dear Sriram:
Your visa page has been a great help.
Here is my experience.  Please stick this
to your homepage without my name and email.
Thanks

Fran

---------------------- Yet another memories of Toronto 
--------------------------

H1B - Multiple Entry Visa at Toronto, Canada
Date: January 27, 1997 (middle of winter)
Transportation: Car

Called 900 number and were given an appointment after 20 days.  I got an
operator in about few min.  I mad two appointments during one call and
it took me about 8 min for both.  Operator sounds professional.  You
will get a confirmation letter and forms by mail in about few days.

Drove to Toronto on 26th from Clevland, OH.  Route I90 E from Clevland
to Buffalo, NY (3hr), I190N to the Peace Bridge (1/2 hr).  Entered
Canada from the Peace bridge, took QEW to Toronto (2hr).   At the
Canadian border, no documents were checked.  Only three questions were
asked: where are you going, where are you coming from, when are you
going back etc.
Stayed in a Motel in Toronto.  Most motels were empty due to winter. US
embassy is located at Simco street, downtown Toronto, just east of
University drive/York Street and South of Danda^Òs street.  It can be
reached from QEW East, Gardner Expressway East, Exit and Left on Yonge
street,  Left on Queen (not quite sure you allowed a left here), and
right on Simco.  There are quite a few parking garages (CAN $8/day for
early birds) and parking meters ($1/hr) located along Simco.
We arrived there around 7AM.  There were about 50 others were waiting
along the line.  Make sure you dress well for the cold weather if you go
during winter (need good Boots, gloves, and something to wrap around
your head).  Small coffee shops are located few blocks North of embassy
and will open around 7 am.  About 7.50 am we were allowed to form
another line just inside the embassy terrace, still in the cold.  They
will give you application form, if you haven^Òt got one. Around 8 am, a
batch of 7 were asked to go into the embassy and form another line to
pay US$20 app fee.  At this time, you can take pictures if you don^Òt
have them (CAN $3 exact change for 2 photos).  Cashier checks the
appointment letter when you pay.  Then you go to the line right next to
cashier for the interview.  About 3-4 officers behind a glass window
conduct interviews.  We were interviewed about 8.45 am.  During the
interview, the officer (a Lady) checked all the dates of my documents to
verify that I was never out of states.  She only asked me very few
general questions.  She wanted to look at my I797, hiring letter, degree
certificate, and PT card.  Did not ask why I need visa.  She noticed
that I received my PT 65 days after my graduation date, from the date on
the PT card (I was technically 5 days out of state).  Fortunately, I had
a document sent to me by INS stating that they received my PT request
before 60 days, otherwise I won^Òt be writing this.  She did not accept
any other docs that shows the date I sent the application.  After the
interview, she got my passport, I797, I94 and gave me a token asking me
to collect the visa between 3 - 4 pm following day (anyone can pick your
passport with the token).  My wife (another H1B) also got her visa
without any problem.  She was next to me during the interview, and were
asked only one general question.
Following day, we went to embassy around 2.50pm and collected the visa
within 5 min.  I got my old I94 and I797 back with the passport.  There
were plenty of empty meter parking spaces along Simco.  Our overall
experience at the embassy was good and fair.  I guess, if you have all
the paperwork ready, you don^Òt have to worry too much.  There were over
100 people lined up to get visa, line moved quite fast.  It appeared
many were pretty successful in getting what they want from the embassy.
Got back to US from the same way.  At the border, an officer checked our
passports, asked whether we bring anything from Canada, how long we were
there, and the purpose of our trip.
Things to know if this is your first visit to Canada.
I got my Canadian visitor^Òs by express mail (returned postage also sent)
by sending to my application material to the embassy at DC (address can
be found at http://www.singer.ca/adr.html).
http://americanlaw.com/visitor.html has Canadian visa info and
applications.  The visa fee is US$55 single entry and $100 multiple. 
Currency conversion 1 US$ ~ 1.30 CAN $.  Canadians use metric units. 
Most venders loved to accept US$s.  Make sure you ask the conversion
rate before pay.  I was told that you get a better conversion for your
credit card. Restaurants will charge you up to 17% tax, minus tips. 
Downtown Toronto seems safe.  Canadians drives good both in the city and
on highways.  I hardly saw any US cars, even though Toronto was only 2
hrs from the border.  Phone 800 668 2746 and request Canada tourist info
before you go there.
Good Luck!

From vsubram@gistrans.com Thu Oct  2 14:50:01 1997
Date: Fri, 14 Mar 1997 10:19:41 -0500
From: see login (vsubram@gistrans.com)
To: sganapat@mailhost.eld.ford.com
Cc: vsubram@mail.clark.net
Subject: Some Information

Hi Man,
I saw your Toronto memoirs on the internet. it was pretty cool.
I just have a query for you.
i intend to go to Toronto to get my multiple entry. If i get rejected
then, can i still enter the US without any valid visa.

I would highly appreciate ur reply or ur perspectives.

Thanks in advance,
Venkatesh 

From isajan@ionet.net Thu Oct  2 14:50:09 1997
Date: Sun, 20 Jul 1997 14:40:54 -0500
From: Irfan Sajan (isajan@ionet.net)
To: sriram@nova.eng.wayne.edu
Subject: h1b multiple entry visa

hi:

i would appreciate it if you or your friends could answer some of the
following questions based on your experiences.

(1) 
Are the US consulates in toronto / Juarez still issuing multiple entry
visas ?

(2) 
which is a safer loc, toronto or Juarez

(3)
what is the wait time for a visa to these countries ?
does one apply for a tourist visa, do they need to see the h1
authorization from INS.

(4)
any tips on the documentation etc.

thanks much
isajan@ionet.net
From sriram@flomerics.com Thu Oct  2 14:50:20 1997
Date: Tue, 26 Aug 1997 18:51:09 -0400 (EDT)
From: Sriram Neelakantan (sriram@flomerics.com)
To: sganapat@ishp01.isp.ford.com
Subject: Memoirs of Toronto

Dear Sriram,

Thank you for taking the time to prepare the above web site. For some
reason, the server is not responding & I have been unable to access it.
On searching the web, I found your note offering to email a copy. I
was wondering if you could please email me a copy at the address:
sriram@flomerics.com? 
Thanks a lot, & sorry for the trouble.

Sriram

From Irfan.Fakih@nbc.com Thu Oct  2 14:50:29 1997
Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 13:44:25 -0400
From: "Fakih, Irfan (NBC,TACT)" (Irfan.Fakih@nbc.com)
To: "'sriram@eng.wayne.edu'" (sriram@hub.eng.wayne.edu)
Subject: Multiple H1-B Visa

I read your experience of Toronto (for H1 multiple visa).  I would like
to know, if it is possible for me to make a visit to Toronto (American
Consulate) during the Thanks Giving Holiday period.  My intend over here
is to save a day of work (since I am a independent consulted).  In other
words, by any chance to you know if the American Consulate in Toronto is
closed on Thursday (27th) & Friday (28th) of November 1997.  Your help
will be really appreciated.  Thanks for your detail documentation on
your Toronto visit.  I think, I got lot of information compared to
calling the 1-900 number.

Office email address:	irfan.fakih@nbc.com	( 9am - 5pm)
Home email address:	fakihs@msn.com	(6pm -	11pm)

P.S:  You can send me email anywhere.

Thanks - Irfan.


        Because e-mail can be altered electronically,
        the integrity of this communication cannot be guaranteed.

Date: Wed, 01 Oct 1997 19:55:36 -0500
From: sujay 
To: sriram@nova.eng.wayne.edu
Subject: H1-B & Degree

Hi Sriram,
The collection on H1 Visa is excellent at your page. I have a question
for my brother, he is actually employed with a consulting company in the
US, his initial objective in coming here was for MS, but he soon dropped
out of school and is employed. He is planning for HMultiple entry at
Juarez. My question: How severe is his problem, keeping in mind that he
does not have a MS. You seem to have a very good collection of responses
from various people, did you ever come across a similar case or know of
someone who had to go through this.
Your response is appreciated.
Thanks,
Sujay

Date: Thu, 17 Sep 1998 14:15:24 -0700
From: Sridhar Thati 
To: sriram@nova.eng.wayne.edu
Subject: H-1 multiple  questions (a lot !)

Hello Sriram,

First of all, let me Congratulate you on maintaining an excellent source
for H-1B info. It is a great source of information/experiences for
people like me who are planning to make a trip to Canada.
I have a lot of questions/concerns regarding my case. I would appreciate
it if you could take the time to read these and get back to me at your
convenience.
My case:
*) came to country on F-1 in  Aug'94 (for M.S in Industrial and Systems
Engg)
*) completed course-work, did not complete M.S thesis, started working
on CPT (Curricular PT) and PT in "database" field (oracle)
*) my PT expired on Sept15 '98

*) my H-1B has been approved, effective from Oct1 '98
*) Iam presently on unpaid-leave of absence, until Oct1 '98
*) planning to go to India this Dec. ... don't want to take a chance of
getting multiple there, cuz if it's rejected I cannot come back in here.

*) planning to make the trip to Canada sometime in Oct/Nov '98

Now, will any of the following affect my chances of getting a multiple:
1) 15 day gap between PT and H-1B (probably not, because I am still "in
status", provided Iam not on the company's payroll for those 15 days ...
which I am not)
2) incomplete M.S
3) different field (studies and job)

What "should" I say if the consulate asks:
1) it's been 2 yrs since you started working, why haven't 't you still
completed your M.S ?
2) why are you working in a un-related field ?
3) why did you come here to Canada for multiple ?
4) why do you want a multiple ?

And lastly, my questions:
1) I live in Chicago ... based on what you've heard, which consulate is
good for me ?
2) should I drive ? .. or fly ? ... is there a difference ?
3) my old I-94 says " admitted until F-1, D/S" ... what does D/S mean ?
- "duration of status" or "duration of studies"
4) if my multiple gets rejected in Canada, can I still come back to this
country ?
5) what if they ask for the old I-94 at the time of entering Canada ...
can I still come back to this country ?

Sorry to bother you with so many questions .. please reply at your
convenience. That will help me immensely. I have absorbed so much
information in the past few days, it's all so cuttered right now.
Hopefully your response will clear things up for me.

Thanks in advance,

Sridhar Thati
email: sthati@us.oracle.com

From: David Catling 
To: sriram@nova.eng.wayne.edu
Subject: Your H-1B page


Hi Sriram,

I'm about to go to Vancouver, Canada, to pick up an H-1B on Thursday,
transferring from a J-1. (I'm a UK citizen).

I appreciated your helpful page on H1 visas. However, I have one question
regarding your checklist which includes the following item:
"Old I-94 (This is stapled to your passport and should *not* be
surrendered when you cross the border and enter Canada.)"

Why must it not be surrendered - which is the usual practice when you
leave the US? I talked to an immigration lawyer and she said that should
not be necessary (i.e. when I leave the US my J-1 visa I-94 gets stripped
out and I'll get a new one with the H-1 visa when I re-enter the US).
If you know different, please let me know.

Thanks,

David Catling.