First of all. I am guilty. I am guilty that i didn't read the information about the speciality of american visa before tournament. I have received a thon of european and asian visas and was sure i am aware on how it is done. I knew US visa is hard one but i couldn't know it's THAT hard.
The next day after having qualified to NASL, i appealed for visa. It was more then 1 month before NASL I couldn't appeal earlier because to make visa you have to book flights and hotel with paying money. And it's not little sum i have to say. But still to absolutely any other country i could've made 5 visas in a row during this time, To US, even though we together with NASL worked very hard to get it in time, i missed it less then in 1 day. I will get visa in 8-th july 2:00 A.M. California time. NASL starts 8-th july in the afternoon but... sadly my trip to US will take 30 hours so it is absolutely impossible that i get there in time.
But for now i have to get US visa for 5 years, so i won't have any problems regarding future NASL/MLG events, which i am going to prove to visiting MLG in July or next one. So since i also have multi European-visa, i hope my visa problems will end at least for my progaming career years =).
Strelok fighting ~~!!! a shame you missed out on nasl gf but you're still one of my fave players <3333 At least you'll make it into season 2 grand finals ez right?
that really sucks man, but you are a great player and im sure many great things will come your way and i have no doubt you will have great success in the future, i wish you the best of luck and it is a shame you wont be able to be here for this event.
keep your head up Strelok. You are an amazing and awesome player and it sucks so bad that you cant be in the grand finals that you worked your ass off getting too. See you at MLG!!!!!!!!
Real shame you weren't able to make the NASL, you played amazingly in the regular season. The long term visa sounds good though, go over there and kick some ass at MLG! =)
i think NASL should let him play his 1st match on US sever if his match agree. The latency will be the same for the host and strelok will have to endure the EU ping.
He has worked really hard to make it here, dont let all the effort go wasted
It sucks to hear this happened and as a Starcraft 2 fan, I do not hold it against you in the slightest. Thank you for taking the time to personally tell the community what is happening and I hope you enjoy any future competitions in my crazy country and my even more loco state of California.
Oh man that sucks! I've been a fan for a while and after following you in the NASL its a real shame. Work hard and make sure your there for NASL series 2!!! Ill still be watching/cheering
On July 03 2011 03:33 Noocta wrote: America is a stupid country for that kind of thing
No, it's not. There are many good reasons, outside of your limited perspective, why this situation would turn out as it does. Don't be so quick to jump toward insulting countries other than your own, ok?
.. took me less than two hours to get my VISA when going to the US earlier in June.. might be because I live in Norway (and we had some sort of e-VISA thing).. Good luck at MLG though!
for those flaming usa or whatever, it's a problem for soviet countries. Even when my grandparents come to visit us for a while in nl, from ukraine, it takes them quite some time to get a visa.
That's unfortunate man, especially after you pretty much crushed everyone in the group stages, very impressive play Look forward to see you at more events in the future both in the US and Europe
hi have you looked the requirements to Canada then enter USA by land? I've read there are different delays/requirements if you go by land(lets say by bus/train).
But usually this is the way to go. It is basically like a normal visa but with some limitations. Instead of taking weeks or months like a normal visa you can be part of the Visa Waiver Program within 5 days.
Idra, Nada, Ace, Kiwikaki, and Naniwa should have a tournament to fill this spot as playoff winners. Each of these players would bring 10,000 more fans than alive. I thought Nasl wanted to succeed as a business.
But usually this is the way to go. It is basically like a normal visa but with some limitations. Instead of taking weeks or months like a normal visa you can be part of the Visa Waiver Program within 5 days.
Hope the info helps!
I'm pretty sure Ukraine is not one of those countries in the Visa Waiver program.
Big shame, but now we have you for MLG instead, so that's nice. You were an absolute beast during Season play, I'm sure you'll crush some skulls in Season 2!
I'm glad to see you come out and say what you did. You applied ahead, in what seemed like at the time a more than reasonable amount of to time to get your visa, and unforseen events prevented you from getting it on time. No blame thrown around, no angry rant about the NASL.
Kudos to you sir and i wish you luck in the future.
Why didn't NASL contact strelok as he was from a problematic country VISA wise? If he applied 2 months ago he would have been able to travel to USA. Why not apply prematurely and then cancel if you don't make to the finals?
On July 03 2011 05:32 archonOOid wrote: Why didn't NASL contact strelok as he was from a problematic country VISA wise? If he applied 2 months ago he would have been able to travel to USA. Why not apply prematurely and then cancel if you don't make to the finals?
I dont think it works this way, afaik you need to have everying booked already and then you can apply for the VISA
On July 03 2011 05:32 archonOOid wrote: Why didn't NASL contact strelok as he was from a problematic country VISA wise? If he applied 2 months ago he would have been able to travel to USA. Why not apply prematurely and then cancel if you don't make to the finals?
please read the thread THEN post
or at the VERY least read the OP of a thread you post in
On July 03 2011 05:32 archonOOid wrote: Why didn't NASL contact strelok as he was from a problematic country VISA wise? If he applied 2 months ago he would have been able to travel to USA. Why not apply prematurely and then cancel if you don't make to the finals?
please read the thread THEN post
or at the VERY least read the OP of a thread you post in
You expect so much from the community iNcontrol. Please try and be reasonable. -.-;
People really do need to start reading before they try to be "productive"
That sucks, but since he didn't know he was going to USA until 1 month before and applied the day after he knew, there isn't much more he coulda done if the requirements are that you prebook flights and hotels before visa.
Best of luck in the future Strelok and at least it's sorted for the next 5 years ^^
I understand there are logistical issues behind delaying stuff- but is there really no way to maybe postpone his games a day so he can participate? =0\
On July 03 2011 06:06 TotalBiscuit wrote: I feel ya bro. Been stuck outside the US for over 2 years now thanks to bogus immigration laws :<
Strelok fighting.
How could America not want someone like TB? I'll say two things; you aren't the most point-to-point analytical caster in the world, but you are damn entertaining to listen to with the play-by-play... never a dull moment with TotalBiscuit...
I also don't know a whole lot about our immigration laws, or visas for that matter... Can someone maybe point me in a direction of what to search for to learn about the issues people like Strelok and TB are having?
i know im stupid but: What is a Visa? Why is it hard to get on in the US. It sounds like a passport kinda thing. It also sounds like possible terrorism threats.
On July 03 2011 03:05 Strelok wrote: First of all. I am guilty. I am guilty that i didn't read the information about the speciality of american visa before tournament. I have received a thon of european and asian visas and was sure i am aware on how it is done. I knew US visa is hard one but i couldn't know it's THAT hard.
The next day after having qualified to NASL, i appealed for visa. It was more then 1 month before NASL I couldn't appeal earlier because to make visa you have to book flights and hotel with paying money. And it's not little sum i have to say. But still to absolutely any other country i could've made 5 visas in a row during this time, To US, even though we together with NASL worked very hard to get it in time, i missed it less then in 1 day. I will get visa in 8-th july 2:00 A.M. California time. NASL starts 8-th july in the afternoon but... sadly my trip to US will take 30 hours so it is absolutely impossible that i get there in time.
But for now i have to get US visa for 5 years, so i won't have any problems regarding future NASL/MLG events, which i am going to prove to visiting MLG in July or next one. So since i also have multi European-visa, i hope my visa problems will end at least for my progaming career years =).
Too bad, Strelok.
Good to know that you've got that visa now. Looking forward to see you make good use of it in MLG Anaheim/Raleigh. :D
Sorry not the most aware, was Strelok playing in the event or just attending? If he was playing in the event, I bet the people who were denied at the beginning are pretty pissed off.
edit: Ahh nevermind that then, he won the Open tournament! Well that sucks.
On July 03 2011 03:05 Strelok wrote: It was more then 1 month before NASL I couldn't appeal earlier because to make visa you have to book flights and hotel with paying money.
I'm sure the people that matter have picked up on this, but this caught my eye. Perhaps the finals need to be made a touch later (even a few days?) than they were this time around, given visa time difficulties. You are not going to book flights/accommodation until you know you have made finals, and thus your visa.
Still, unfortunate situation, but well handled given the circumstances.
On July 03 2011 06:25 Isaac wrote: i know im stupid but: What is a Visa? Why is it hard to get on in the US. It sounds like a passport kinda thing. It also sounds like possible terrorism threats.
Never been outside the US? You need a Visa to travel to many other countries - or into the USA.
It's particularly tough to get a US visa because the processing is pretty slow. (due to increased security procedures after 2001). Ukraine is not part of the Visa waiver program, unfortunately.
I feel so sad for strelok . Out of all the people that qualified he seemed the most enthusiatic and excited at attending the event from the interviews.
On July 03 2011 03:05 Strelok wrote: First of all. I am guilty. I am guilty that i didn't read the information about the speciality of american visa before tournament. I have received a thon of european and asian visas and was sure i am aware on how it is done. I knew US visa is hard one but i couldn't know it's THAT hard.
The next day after having qualified to NASL, i appealed for visa. It was more then 1 month before NASL I couldn't appeal earlier because to make visa you have to book flights and hotel with paying money. And it's not little sum i have to say. But still to absolutely any other country i could've made 5 visas in a row during this time, To US, even though we together with NASL worked very hard to get it in time, i missed it less then in 1 day. I will get visa in 8-th july 2:00 A.M. California time. NASL starts 8-th july in the afternoon but... sadly my trip to US will take 30 hours so it is absolutely impossible that i get there in time.
But for now i have to get US visa for 5 years, so i won't have any problems regarding future NASL/MLG events, which i am going to prove to visiting MLG in July or next one. So since i also have multi European-visa, i hope my visa problems will end at least for my progaming career years =).
Sadly, that's the issue with America.
Obtaining a visa to visit, let alone to live and work in the United States is a bitch to put it bluntly.
Sorry to hear you'd have to miss NASL because of this, but good luck to you in future tourneys.
What's the big deal? Get into the planes wheel well, parachute down to the ocean, inflate your raft and paddle to land. From there it's as easy as carjacking an old lady and winning the tourney.
yeah, i feel you man, i broke my teeth on US immigration as well trying to get a visa for my wife, she's from the philippines, and even married with an EU citizen + bank statement and all the stuff, she got denied, reason? "Social background not strong enough", and no refund for the visa application fee. It was in 2008, I guess by now it must be worst, it's their damn "homeland security", completely worthless.
Not the first person to be screwed over by US visa rules and you will not be that last. But it's good that you got a 5 year visa for the future at least.
Goo dluck to you in the future, Strelok; in my opinion, you were one of the guys in NaSL who prepared so well you played above your normal potential. Its too bad after all that serious preparation, you couldn't reap the benefits!
This really sucks. Strelok has put a great amount of time, effort, and preparation in his approach to NASL (and it showed). He displayed an unrivaled amount of professionalism and passion for the league. What a cruel blow that fate as dealt him. Keep your head up, Strelok!
Sad to see this. I thought Strelok played well in the NASL. And great character for him to make a thread and put the guilt on himself. I'm a fan and I wish him in the best in future. And I nope Alive performs well in his place at NASL.
Given my Summer holiday plans were thrown off the rails by Spanish Visa problems, I know the feeling. But of course, minus the millions of fans caring.
Best of luck in MLG, despite the disappointment of not turning up in the NASL.
There really ought to be an ESPORTS visa, I'd trust Hot_Bid to hand them out.
On July 03 2011 10:01 Mobius_1 wrote: Given my Summer holiday plans were thrown off the rails by Spanish Visa problems, I know the feeling. But of course, minus the millions of fans caring.
Best of luck in MLG, despite the disappointment of not turning up in the NASL.
There really ought to be an ESPORTS visa, I'd trust Hot_Bid to hand them out.
On July 03 2011 10:07 johanngrunt wrote: Petition your congressmen so that the visa process is more relaxed for people with a valid reason to come.
Edit: should read, "To Americans:"
They won't give a visa to single people from another country, they'll never leave the country. Gotta be atleast married with some strong roots so you'll come back to your country lol.
Sorry man, I was really looking forward to your performance in the finals, as I'm sure many were, not only because you're one of the few Terrans making it into the finals (8 , 4 , 4 counting you), but you are surely a progamer and a force to be reconed with, beyond any race specifications.
So what happens now, the player he was up against gets an auto-win? Or is the 16th rank coming in? Will the seeds be rearranged? Just curious, but not to diminish my sympathy for Strelok.
On July 03 2011 11:42 DuncanIdaho wrote: So what happens now, the player he was up against gets an auto-win? Or is the 16th rank coming in? Will the seeds be rearranged? Just curious, but not to diminish my sympathy for Strelok.
On July 03 2011 11:42 DuncanIdaho wrote: So what happens now, the player he was up against gets an auto-win? Or is the 16th rank coming in? Will the seeds be rearranged? Just curious, but not to diminish my sympathy for Strelok.
Wondering same thing, is it a walk-over or what?
Strelok is replaced by TSL.aLive
I hope we see you in MLG Strelok, too bad the visa wasn't approved on time.
On July 03 2011 11:42 DuncanIdaho wrote: So what happens now, the player he was up against gets an auto-win? Or is the 16th rank coming in? Will the seeds be rearranged? Just curious, but not to diminish my sympathy for Strelok.
Wondering same thing, is it a walk-over or what?
Strelok is replaced by TSL.aLive
I hope we see you in MLG Strelok, too bad the visa wasn't approved on time.
Ty for the info. And that helps the race thing I mentioned, as Alive is also a , excellent series and gg's vs Puma. Again though, my condolences to Strelok
Too bad. Would have been nice to see you do well in the United States, Strelok.. :-) I hope you get your problems solved and are on good grounds with NASL
By experience i know they select the meanest, sometimes racist ppl to examine visa cases. If you tell them you need the visa in 1 month max, they will yell at you, ask you whether you want the visa or not, and to stfu if you really want it. They don't give a shit if you've got to make a conference at the united nations, or take oral exams for a scholarship they offered to you (!). However, they do give a shit about how you look like, your origins, etc. It doesn't matter if the visa's ready a week before. They won't give it to you earlier (while they are well aware of the date of the tournament and flight), coz you have to learn your place.
HuK saying he didn't understand why he had to make a visa for turkey while he's american made me laugh. It's only natural some countries will throw the same bullshit at you that you throw at them. And well, at least in the case of Turkey, he got it instantly. They only wanted their money back.
Sorry that happened to you Strelok =( Show Dimaga how to get a visa tho, would love to see at MLG too ^^
I find it ironic that US considers itself a country of immgrants and immigration as one of its biggest strengths but it is the hardest country in the world to get a visa to visit - dont even think about wanting to live there.
I love it how NightEnD was not invited into NASL because "he didn't gave proof that he can get VISA" even that it's much easyer for Romanians to get US VISA.
And now this happens.
Sorry for Strelock. I really wanted to see him play in the finals. In NASL he proved to be pretty fun to watch.
On July 03 2011 18:19 PET wrote: I love it how NightEnD was not invited into NASL because "he didn't gave proof that he can get VISA" even that it's much easyer for Romanians to get US VISA.
And now this happens.
Sorry for Strelock. I really wanted to see him play in the finals. In NASL he proved to be pretty fun to watch.
On July 03 2011 17:32 Tialys wrote: By experience i know they select the meanest, sometimes racist ppl to examine visa cases. If you tell them you need the visa in 1 month max, they will yell at you, ask you whether you want the visa or not, and to stfu if you really want it. They don't give a shit if you've got to make a conference at the united nations, or take oral exams for a scholarship they offered to you (!). However, they do give a shit about how you look like, your origins, etc. It doesn't matter if the visa's ready a week before. They won't give it to you earlier (while they are well aware of the date of the tournament and flight), coz you have to learn your place.
HuK saying he didn't understand why he had to make a visa for turkey while he's american made me laugh. It's only natural some countries will throw the same bullshit at you that you throw at them. And well, at least in the case of Turkey, he got it instantly. They only wanted their money back.
Sorry that happened to you Strelok =( Show Dimaga how to get a visa tho, would love to see at MLG too ^^
Sorry to hear that Strelok. I really hope you can make it for future tournaments.
Additionally, whaaat? HuK came or coming to Turkey? I'll hook you up Chris.
I googled before if i need VISA for vacation in the US (Providence finals) and some said nothing was needed.. Luckily I saw this otherwise I'd be in the same position as you Strelok.
It's not only difficult for people from eastern europe. But no problem, need to wait a bit. The USA is almost broke. Soon they need every $ and then i think it's gonna be a lot of easier and faster to travel there.
Did you have to get a VISA ? I was in the U.S. a couple of weeks ago and all I had to fill was a ESTA application and I had no problem at all getting one.
that sucks :/ I personally didn't know it was that hard to get one to come to 'Merica. Only realizing this after hearing about all these problems people have been having trying to get here for tournaments.
On July 03 2011 21:05 Lylat wrote: Did you have to get a VISA ? I was in the U.S. a couple of weeks ago and all I had to fill was a ESTA application and I had no problem at all getting one.
well your from France -> EU so there is no problem normally unfortunately some of the Eastern European countries don't have it that easy..
On July 03 2011 21:05 Lylat wrote: Did you have to get a VISA ? I was in the U.S. a couple of weeks ago and all I had to fill was a ESTA application and I had no problem at all getting one.
France =! Ukraine
Read up on the Visa waiver program on Wikipedia to get the details. Travelling to the US from any country not in that program is a pain.
Its because they are so special they bomb at least 1 new country a year and assume that everyone else is as warlike as them with their freedom so live in fear.
I hope that US citizens on the forum understand that jabbering about the situation on the internet is not the only possible course of action. If you realize how incredibly stupid american approach to visas is, what about contacting you elected representative about the topic?
I really feel sorry for Strelok, as it is only several years ago when we were in the same situation. Luckily now we are on the waiver program, but I really don't see how Ukranians are less worthy of that than us.
Really sad to hear this. I'm sorry Strelok, it's not your fault, but it sucks that you won't be able to make it. I'll miss you at the NASL finals but hopefully i'll get to see you soon in america. Keep owning nerds and winning money!
Oh I see, sorry for my ignorance I thought it was the same for all the european countries... Why do they make a difference between western/eastern Europe ? Because of the past ? Seems silly to me.
On July 03 2011 23:40 Lylat wrote: Oh I see, sorry for my ignorance I thought it was the same for all the european countries... Why do they make a difference between western/eastern Europe ? Because of the past ? Seems silly to me.
Trying to reason with embassy rules is beyond anyone, don't try it if you wish to stay sane. What do you expect from people who can't locate any other countries other than their own on the world map?
On July 03 2011 23:40 Lylat wrote: Oh I see, sorry for my ignorance I thought it was the same for all the european countries... Why do they make a difference between western/eastern Europe ? Because of the past ? Seems silly to me.
Trying to reason with embassy rules is beyond anyone, don't try it if you wish to stay sane. What do you expect from people who can't locate any other countries other than their own on the world map?
Yay stereotypes. But hey what do I expect from someone who lives in a country thats a giant brothel?
Strelok's NASL interviews were the best I was looking forward to seeing him, and now I must wait. But the wait will be well worth it. Strelok fighting.
On July 03 2011 21:55 MrTortoise wrote: Its because they are so special they bomb at least 1 new country a year and assume that everyone else is as warlike as them with their freedom so live in fear.
Orly, Mister Troll. I'm so glad you are so learned. What Utopian society do you live in?
Let's see. if you don't like it, don't come here. Most of the strictness in the Immigration policies is because people come here and don't leave. Running out their Visas. It' s sad that it is harder and harder to get a Visa, but certain countries have an easier access to receiving their travel Visas.
You must get out more. I guess most of the racial genocides that have happened in Europe doesn't count. I guess that's not warlike. The constant regime change and ethic cleansing in many African nation aren't warlike. The middle east and the religious turmoil is not warlike. the many Asian warlords killing people over drug production is not warlike.
The B-1 Visa is the typical (Professional Visa i.e Athletes, Performer, and Gamers, who are coming to compete for prize money)
This is the problem with the NASL. They do this really long tournament. Takes forever to get done. People bail on there group games, and now people are unable to get VISA's..after being told MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A VISA. Frankly, every player in the NASL needs to have a VISA and provide proof before they are able to compete.
This is the reason why the NASL is irrelevant. I know Strelok never intended for this to happen, but it did happen because he didn't get his paperwork in order as intended. Remember why other players were not chosen because of prior visa issues? Frankly, I think Strelok should be banned from season 2.
Just an opinion... the NASL was very clear. They did not want this happening. Guess what... It happened. Now the NASL has there pants down by there ankles...again.
Unfortunately it has to be like this, very difficult, considering so many people from around the world come here and try to stay so we have to be as selective as possible with a lot of rules.
this kind of stuff it really sad for humanity as a whole
maybe the nasl can call the embasy or something to explain the situation? maybe they are reasonanble. i bet they have made exceptions for athletes, singers, actors, whatever in the past.
I'm really sorry for you . Your performance in the tournament surprised me the most and you made a massive fan of me, more than anyone else. I'm super glad you're planning on coming out to the NA scene more and I wish you as much success as you deserve, which is plenty.
I really don't see why they can't just let him play anyway. Sure, its a LAN event, but matches between USA and Europe happen all the time. It isn't possible to play LAN, they have to play online anyway. Just let the guy continue in the tournament and stop trying to act like this actually means he can't play..
Maybe even just fly him to Sweden or somewhere that has really good internet :p
sucks for you strelok, best of luck in future tournaments, but i dont see how people can blame NASL for anything, they have provided us with great entertainment for the last 3 months, having a ton of pro's play weekly. I just dont understand why so many people are hating on it.
FlamingTurd: US officials are absolutely paranoid about it. The worst thing is that even you get a visa, they can disallow you to enter the country AFTER landing in USA. I this case you have to buy a very expensive ticket back to your country.
On July 04 2011 10:49 FlamingTurd wrote: Unfortunately it has to be like this, very difficult, considering so many people from around the world come here and try to stay so we have to be as selective as possible with a lot of rules.
The fact that there are Americans that actually believe this makes me lose a lot of hope. You do not have to do it that way. If you have to believe that illegal immigrants are a big issue, what about, I don't know, finding them and deporting them after they try to stay in your country, not before, if you have no idea, what their intentions are?
Or you can just wake up and realize, that certain parties are using the threat of "illegal immigrants" to distract your attention from more serious problems, exactly as it now happens in several countries accross Europe.
On July 04 2011 13:15 Mohdoo wrote: I really don't see why they can't just let him play anyway. Sure, its a LAN event, but matches between USA and Europe happen all the time. It isn't possible to play LAN, they have to play online anyway. Just let the guy continue in the tournament and stop trying to act like this actually means he can't play..
Maybe even just fly him to Sweden or somewhere that has really good internet :p
Well, it is too late anyways. They have strict rules about showing up to the grand finals and TSLalive, as the runner-up of the open tournament, was promised a seed into the finals, should somebody not show up.
On July 04 2011 19:47 exShikari wrote: The US is far too tightly wound as far as security goes. Most countries in the world let you get a 4 week visa upon arrival at a port.
It would be nice if every country could just join the EU and have open borders (at least EU internally). The world would be a better place if everyone had just a little more trust in those he doesn't know.
Anyways, sad to read that Strelok won't compete. He deserved this spot and while i doubt he'd gotten to the finals, he would have still gone through a few rounds and maybe earned a share of the price.
Maybe NASL should adjust the schedule for season 2 and move the finals a week or two back to prevent such problems.
On July 03 2011 03:33 Noocta wrote: America is a stupid country for that kind of thing
No, it's not. There are many good reasons, outside of your limited perspective, why this situation would turn out as it does. Don't be so quick to jump toward insulting countries other than your own, ok?
He is right, in that respect the US is a bit retarded. The one reason why I always skip over it when planning vacations, just not worth the trouble. Its turn will come since there are plenty of reasons to visit but waiting for VISA removal first.
And considering your immigrant situation taking forever to grant a short trip VISA seems weird. But then again I've heard from someone it also takes a long time to get a passport as an American citizen so I suppose speed just isn't an issue when it comes to US customs.
Wow, really good post. Few would start of by mentioning their mistakes (if you can call them that) and taking full responisbility for the situation. It is a shame that you won't be able to make it, but with your skill it shouldn't be much trouble for you to qualify again. Good luck at MLG.
On July 04 2011 19:47 exShikari wrote: The US is far too tightly wound as far as security goes. Most countries in the world let you get a 4 week visa upon arrival at a port.
It would be nice if every country could just join the EU and have open borders (at least EU internally). The world would be a better place if everyone had just a little more trust in those he doesn't know.
Anyways, sad to read that Strelok won't compete. He deserved this spot and while i doubt he'd gotten to the finals, he would have still gone through a few rounds and maybe earned a share of the price.
Maybe NASL should adjust the schedule for season 2 and move the finals a week or two back to prevent such problems.
Beside the fact that the EU are closing their borders because it makes it so easy for criminals. Germany is the only country fighting for it to stay open though.
It would be nice if the US wouldn't bitch about Visas like a little child.
Why do you even need a Visa to stay a few days/weeks? I really don't get it. But well, it lightens my heart to see US-Citizens (which are not really to blame for that i guess) waiting in line at Airports way longer than anyone else just because the US seems to think that everyone and his mother would move to the US...
I actually once wanted to go on vacation to the US... Saw what i would have to do (not much timewise, but just annoying bullshit, the forms you have to fill out are running jokes here) and thought... Well, they obviously don't want my money...
On July 04 2011 19:47 exShikari wrote: The US is far too tightly wound as far as security goes. Most countries in the world let you get a 4 week visa upon arrival at a port.
It would be nice if every country could just join the EU and have open borders (at least EU internally). The world would be a better place if everyone had just a little more trust in those he doesn't know.
Anyways, sad to read that Strelok won't compete. He deserved this spot and while i doubt he'd gotten to the finals, he would have still gone through a few rounds and maybe earned a share of the price.
Maybe NASL should adjust the schedule for season 2 and move the finals a week or two back to prevent such problems.
Beside the fact that the EU are closing their borders because it makes it so easy for criminals. Germany is the only country fighting for it to stay open though.
+ US u silly
Well if there is a check-in on the border its ok if it doesnt require VISA to cross (where did you hear about EU closing its internal borders, havent heard anything about it)
On July 04 2011 19:47 exShikari wrote: The US is far too tightly wound as far as security goes. Most countries in the world let you get a 4 week visa upon arrival at a port.
It would be nice if every country could just join the EU and have open borders (at least EU internally). The world would be a better place if everyone had just a little more trust in those he doesn't know.
Anyways, sad to read that Strelok won't compete. He deserved this spot and while i doubt he'd gotten to the finals, he would have still gone through a few rounds and maybe earned a share of the price.
Maybe NASL should adjust the schedule for season 2 and move the finals a week or two back to prevent such problems.
Beside the fact that the EU are closing their borders because it makes it so easy for criminals. Germany is the only country fighting for it to stay open though.
+ US u silly
Well if there is a check-in on the border its ok if it doesnt require VISA to cross (where did you hear about EU closing its internal borders, havent heard anything about it)
It's all over the news. Denmark making allowances for the right wing, France starting to control more after Italy let the fugitives lose, etc.
Anyways, I wonder if Strelok tried to apply for a special visa for sportsmen. And I hope that gaming is considered to be a sport or, if not, will be considered a full-fledged sport soon enough.
I think it's very unfortunate for Strelok. He explained the situation well and doubt that he could have something differently. There's a lot of players who don't care about being reliable but Strelok is not one of them. Good luck in the future!
On July 04 2011 19:47 exShikari wrote: The US is far too tightly wound as far as security goes. Most countries in the world let you get a 4 week visa upon arrival at a port.
It would be nice if every country could just join the EU and have open borders (at least EU internally). The world would be a better place if everyone had just a little more trust in those he doesn't know.
Anyways, sad to read that Strelok won't compete. He deserved this spot and while i doubt he'd gotten to the finals, he would have still gone through a few rounds and maybe earned a share of the price.
Maybe NASL should adjust the schedule for season 2 and move the finals a week or two back to prevent such problems.
Beside the fact that the EU are closing their borders because it makes it so easy for criminals. Germany is the only country fighting for it to stay open though.
+ US u silly
Well if there is a check-in on the border its ok if it doesnt require VISA to cross (where did you hear about EU closing its internal borders, havent heard anything about it)
It's all over the news. Denmark making allowances for the right wing, France starting to control more after Italy let the fugitives lose, etc.
Anyways, I wonder if Strelok tried to apply for a special visa for sportsmen. And I hope that gaming is considered to be a sport or, if not, will be considered a full-fledged sport soon enough.
rofl... no country in the eu is closing it's borders. they just start to control passports at the borders on a more regular basis again.
Strelok you said that you receive the visa at 2:00 AM. You should fly to Mexico and then fly to California. It is only a 3 hour flight. If you leave tomorrow you can rest in Mexico for a few days. Will you consider doing this? It's $50,000 dollars man...
On July 05 2011 02:47 wats0n wrote: Strelok you said that you receive the visa at 2:00 AM. You should fly to Mexico and then fly to California. It is only a 3 hour flight. If you leave tomorrow you can rest in Mexico for a few days. Will you consider doing this? It's $50,000 dollars man...
i guess he will have to sign/pay for the visa in the embassy where he requested it.
On July 05 2011 02:47 wats0n wrote: Strelok you said that you receive the visa at 2:00 AM. You should fly to Mexico and then fly to California. It is only a 3 hour flight. If you leave tomorrow you can rest in Mexico for a few days. Will you consider doing this? It's $50,000 dollars man...
as good as he is, i don't think he has a realistic chance of even finishing in the money. so it'll be a lot of wasted money at this point just to play.
On July 05 2011 02:47 wats0n wrote: Strelok you said that you receive the visa at 2:00 AM. You should fly to Mexico and then fly to California. It is only a 3 hour flight. If you leave tomorrow you can rest in Mexico for a few days. Will you consider doing this? It's $50,000 dollars man...
i guess he will have to sign/pay for the visa in the embassy where he requested it.
Can he not pick up the visa at the American Consulate in Mexico? Maybe somebody can clarify.
If I was Strelok I would wake up tomorrow morning and call the Mexican Consulate and make an appointment to see them (google says it's in Kiev). I don't know how far he is from Kiev but I would drive there.
Bring passport and tell them that you want to fly to Mexico, spend a couple days there, visit the U.S. and then fly back from Mexico. They need to know that you are spending money in their country to grant a visa. Ask to speak to the head consul and explain to him that you are in a sporting competition to win $50,000 and you represent Ukraine.
On July 05 2011 02:47 wats0n wrote: Strelok you said that you receive the visa at 2:00 AM. You should fly to Mexico and then fly to California. It is only a 3 hour flight. If you leave tomorrow you can rest in Mexico for a few days. Will you consider doing this? It's $50,000 dollars man...
as good as he is, i don't think he has a realistic chance of even finishing in the money. so it'll be a lot of wasted money at this point just to play.
Did you even check the tournament format or the brackets? He already gets $500. If he wins his first round he gets in the ro16 where he has already won $1500. His opponent is Darkforce and I would say Strelok is the favorite in that matchup.
On July 05 2011 02:47 wats0n wrote: Strelok you said that you receive the visa at 2:00 AM. You should fly to Mexico and then fly to California. It is only a 3 hour flight. If you leave tomorrow you can rest in Mexico for a few days. Will you consider doing this? It's $50,000 dollars man...
i guess he will have to sign/pay for the visa in the embassy where he requested it.
Can he not pick up the visa at the American Consulate in Mexico? Maybe somebody can clarify.
If I was Strelok I would wake up tomorrow morning and call the Mexican Consulate and make an appointment to see them (google says it's in Kiev). I don't know how far he is from Kiev but I would drive there.
Bring passport and tell them that you want to fly to Mexico, spend a couple days there, visit the U.S. and then fly back from Mexico. They need to know that you are spending money in their country to grant a visa. Ask to speak to the head consul and explain to him that you are in a sporting competition to win $50,000 and you represent Ukraine.
On July 05 2011 02:47 wats0n wrote: Strelok you said that you receive the visa at 2:00 AM. You should fly to Mexico and then fly to California. It is only a 3 hour flight. If you leave tomorrow you can rest in Mexico for a few days. Will you consider doing this? It's $50,000 dollars man...
as good as he is, i don't think he has a realistic chance of even finishing in the money. so it'll be a lot of wasted money at this point just to play.
Did you even check the tournament format or the brackets? He already gets $500. If he wins his first round he gets in the ro16 where he has already won $1500. His opponent is Darkforce and I would say Strelok is the favorite in that matchup.
He has an appointment with the American embassy in Ukraine. It's not possible to just call the American embassy in Mexico and get it there instead. In any case, they have already invited Alive to his slot, so it's a moot point.
On July 05 2011 00:22 Velr wrote: I actually once wanted to go on vacation to the US... Saw what i would have to do (not much timewise, but just annoying bullshit, the forms you have to fill out are running jokes here) and thought... Well, they obviously don't want my money...
Switzerland is a Visa Waiver Program country, so you can submit a form online identifying yourself and indicating that you're a Swiss citizen and just hop on a plane.
Most of the countries that don't participate in the Visa Waiver Program have equally difficult visa processes for Americans to visit as for their citizens to visit the U.S. Visa hassles are a worldwide problem.
Edit: Most of the EU are Visa Waiver Program countries and can visit the U.S. with very little advance preparation. Strelok's from Ukraine, which doesn't have such an agreement with the U.S. (I note that Ukraine has waived the visa requirement for visiting U.S. citizens, so hopefully the U.S. may at some point reciprocate.)
Also, Strelok may be applying for an O, P, or B visa, which are specifically for athletes and entertainers, and have different requirements. These visas take extra time because it's required that a person demonstrate that they're regarded as internationally notable in their area of expertise.
its nice to see so many people trying to find loopholes for strelok to make it to the states, but I believe that he has already been replaced...(by aLive or someone like that)
On July 04 2011 19:47 exShikari wrote: The US is far too tightly wound as far as security goes. Most countries in the world let you get a 4 week visa upon arrival at a port.
We aren't most countries...
The most powerful countries are extremely selective and intensive with visas (Russia, China, Iran, U.S., Israel, Japan, Saudi Arabia). All these countries want to ensure a high breed of either highly educated or highly specialized workers that pose little security threat. In fact we aren't even that bad compared to some of the countries above I mentioned.
Man, that sucks Sorry bout the visa troubles Strelok, at least it looks like it's going to be a non issue going forward. Visa and scheduling issues seem to keep popping up repeatedly with major international tournies...maybe organizers can work harder with players and each other in advance to get things in order? :/
Wow thats a shame but it also exposes NASL and Xeris for their comments about other teams proving they had visas when they denied Nightend entry because he lived in Romania and he didnt have a visa at that time because of the same reasons as you it costs money and you need the hotel bookings etc etc. Despite living in a EU country. This clearly shows there was either complete incompetence or as I suspect there were other reasons why Nightend wasn't wanted (another European Protoss).
On July 04 2011 19:47 exShikari wrote: The US is far too tightly wound as far as security goes. Most countries in the world let you get a 4 week visa upon arrival at a port.
We aren't most countries...
The most powerful countries are extremely selective and intensive with visas (Russia, China, Iran, U.S., Israel, Japan, Saudi Arabia). All these countries want to ensure a high breed of either highly educated or highly specialized workers that pose little security threat. In fact we aren't even that bad compared to some of the countries above I mentioned.
hmm you are one of the worst in the world , not saying i dont understand why but happily listing yourself alongside some of the worst human rights countries in the world isnt really an excuse, you could have added North Korea to that too.
Oh no, this is horrible. I was thinking you were one of the top contenders to win NASL. This is sad news, but hopefully you'll do really well at MLG Anaheim. Good luck in the future, at least you don't have to deal with this for another 5 years :D
On July 04 2011 19:47 exShikari wrote: The US is far too tightly wound as far as security goes. Most countries in the world let you get a 4 week visa upon arrival at a port.
We aren't most countries...
The most powerful countries are extremely selective and intensive with visas (Russia, China, Iran, U.S., Israel, Japan, Saudi Arabia). All these countries want to ensure a high breed of either highly educated or highly specialized workers that pose little security threat. In fact we aren't even that bad compared to some of the countries above I mentioned.
Sorry for the bump, I've been roadtripping. I can't speak for all the above countries, but I've been to Israel and Japan and they are just as easy to get into as anywhere in Asia, as long as you have no ill intentions.
EPT
, 4 
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counting you), but you are surely a progamer and a force to be reconed with, beyond any race specifications. 
