Temporary Residency Visa recent experience?

[Waymond Smith]

As you have noted, the financial requirements and wait times vary. I recently received my approval in Chicago and had to wait 7 days after my appointment date in order to pickup my CANJE.

Yes, you must meet the minimum financial requirements for the consulate that you are applying. When I returned, I used an agency in SMA to process the paperwork with immigration. I've only had to return for fingerprints. Now I have to wait and hope that they don't run out of printing materials and make it through the holidays.