My app went in on December 29,2015 and I did my interview on December 5, 2016 and got the visa on spot. I don't like the passport request idea takes longer u have to wait on them to please their selves to print and mail it.
I think they just want to meet with who so ever they are letting in their country. Also, I like that after the interview the visa is printed right on spot that was a great idea.