Job Discussion Forums

[amandajoy99]

I have been accepted to the IICA program to teach in the state of Sao Paulo - I've noticed some posts about it on this site. Since it's an exchange program and I am not technically getting paid - I need a Cultural Visa. After having read that some people had trouble getting this and some would-be participants in IICA were turned down I'm getting a little nervous. Just wondering if anyone has any advice about applying for the Cultural Visa. Is it better to do it by mail (at the Consulate of Miami, in whose jurisdiction I live), or in person (in Washington DC, where I will be in January)? I plan to send the official letters from the school and program, my application (2x), passport photos, proof of financial ability to support my stay in Brazil (and buy a return ticket, since I'll be coming back in a year and the airlines don't even have flight dates and prices set yet. I'm a little worried about the flight thing, since the Embassy sounded skeptical when I talked to them), letter of good conduct from police, proof that I live in consular jurisdiction (if I do the Miami thing)... I think that's all...help?