A Journey of Renewal: My H1B Visa Experience in Spain

A Journey of Renewal: My H1B Visa Experience in Spain 🇺🇸✈️🇪🇸

In the midst of a busy autumn and with my sights set on new adventures, I secured an H1B visa slot in a third country. I traveled to Spain, successfully renewed my visa in just one business day, and had a fantastic ten-day vacation to explore, eat, and enjoy! 🎉 Huge thanks to @美签秒约侠 for making this process remarkably seamless. With just a small investment, I accomplished something big!

Timeline of Events 🗓️

Here’s a breakdown of my journey:

1. Travel Decisions: In August, I decided to take a week off in October to renew my visa and enjoy some leisure time. It was a bit tight, and I recommend starting at least three months in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises.
2. Finding Help: I reached out to @美签秒约侠; the complexity of getting a US visa can be daunting, especially when compared to obtaining a Schengen visa. I decided to focus on my US visa first, before tackling the Schengen visa application. I opted for a walk-in appointment at the Portuguese consulate, which was much easier than scheduling an appointment for countries like France, Spain, or Italy.
3. Appointment Secured: I scored a visa appointment on September 4th!
4. Preparing Documentation: I gathered all necessary documents for my Portuguese visa, including proof of employment and finances, which took me just two working days to prepare.
5. Consulate Visit: On September 10th, I went to the Portuguese consulate in Boston. However, I was informed that the walk-in slots were full, and I would need to return the next day to sign the paperwork.
6. Waiting for Approval: I received my Schengen visa on September 29th. The wait felt long, and I recommend starting the application process early if possible.
7. Booking Flights: I booked my flights only after securing the visa, and to my surprise, ticket prices had actually dropped since early September. October really is a great time for travel!
8. Departure Day: I set off on my adventure! On Wednesday, I arrived at the US consulate in Madrid, and there were only two people in line. The visa officer didn’t even mention any new policy changes, and I breezed through the process! I had an 8 AM appointment and finished well before 10 AM—there was even time for breakfast back at the hotel!
9. Passport Collection: I received an email by Thursday afternoon that my passport was ready for pickup. What efficient service! 😌
10. Enjoying the Holiday: With my visa renewed, I was free to relax and enjoy the rest of my vacation, embracing yet another year of travel freedom!

My Background 📚

I have a background in business from a UK university and further studies in graduate work in the US, currently working as a data professional in a major company.

Final Thoughts 🌍

I hope this experience helps others who are navigating similar paths! Let’s embrace the world together, brave souls! #h1bRenewal #H1BThirdCountry #EuropeVisa #SchengenVisa #SpainTravel