English . is that important ?

[levidavila1980]

Hey guys. I am new on this. I am planning to apply for a visitor Visa.

What am I expected to speak in front of the consulate officer ? English or my native language ?

If I speak English. would that be a positive or negative point to get a visitor visa for one month ?

Thanks...
jonny

[knowledgeable]

Reality not "important"

Appears that you do speak English very well as your written language is good.

If so, you should speak English. Please don't try to "fool" them by telling that that you don't speak English in the hope of getting your visa.

Just be honest and sincere.

Good luck.

[waitin_toolong]

why would speaking english be a negative in any case.

[knowledgeable]

Because ...

Because these intelligent people hear things from their "friends" which eventually blow up on them, that's why.

Never makes sense when people don't use their common sense.

Agree with you waitin..too..long why would speaking English be negative in any way? In fact, it will be good for the applicant.

Take care.

[jocalevy]

I am partially retired and I do tourism in the U.S. a lot. Actually, I am in the U.S. right now. There are many aspects of the American way of life that I admire, but I have my own life in my country and I have no plans to come live in the U.S.

Nevertheless, less than a week ago my re-entry in the U.S. from Canada with my family was rejected. I had to spend three more days in Canada waiting for documents sent by my office, showing my strong ties with my country. Eventually, our re-entry was approved.

I note, however, that one of the points, raised by the Customs officer that first denied our entry, to sustain his theory that my family and I were lying and that we intended to live in the U.S. illegally, was the fact that we speak English reasonably well, too well - he thought - for mere tourists.

At any rate, I agree with 'knowledgeable' that you should not try to fool the consulate officials.

[levidavila1980]

I think so...

I've never been to the states... even though people say I have a good English accent. would the agent think this would help me to stay and establish (get a job) myself in the U.S.? anyway.. I am not required to speak English... I will speak my native language.

Best regards...

[PraetorianXI]

I guess it is a catch 22.

If you do not speak english, how are you going to "fend for yourself" as a tourist to the USA.

If you speak too well, then you could overstay and get a job, etc.

I guess it is somewhere in the middle. No need to try to fool the immigration officers though. Their assesstment will be based in a lot more than how good or bad your english is.