I posted previously under the other thread on this board about experiences getting a visa. I sent mine November 11th and finally have it back after taking three and a half months. It went through a processing service in D.C. I did send it in early hoping to have it back by Christmas. The reason given for the delay was that with Carnival coming up and cruise ships leaving it was a particularly busy time so mine was put to the back of the line. Send it in early or closer to leaving - good question. However, hopefully this does not happen other times of the year. Wonder what is going to happen when the Olympics are in Brazil?