Urgent help for H4 process

[amardadhi]

I had recently moved in NJ, USA on H1. I want to process H4 visa for my wife and daughter ( 3 years old). Can you please respond to my queries below depending on your experience?
1. Do I need to file any petition for dependents?
2. Do I need to file seperate petition for dependents?
3. If I need to file petition, where can I get details of the application number and the fees? (web url)?
4. If I file any petition generally how much time it takes?
5. If petition filing is not required can I take directly appontment from USA consulate in India.
6. DO I need to send the original of my visa to my wife for their interview?
7. What are documents required for H4 interview?

[akila]

You can directly take an appointment with US Consulate, India. You can download the forms from USCIS website. You need to send copies of your paystubs, i797 approval notice, passport with your valid h1 visa stamping, bank statments to verify the address of stay in US, any W-2'S. I am not sure whether origianl copies of the above documents are necessary. Your wife needs to take original copies of your marriage certificate, some marriage photos, birth certificate of your child.