The Green Card interview is an important step in the process. US immigration. Warren Janssen, Retired USCIS Director and Immigration Specialist, provides insights into how the interview works and gives tips on how to prepare for this decisive moment.
What is the Green Card interview like?
An Adjustment of Status or Adjustment of Status interview green card is conducted by USCIS Immigration Services Officers in the USA. Interviews are conducted to determine whether the applicant is qualified to obtain permanent resident status, which can lead to U.S. citizenship.
The Adjustment Status applicant has the burden of proof to demonstrate to the officials that he or she should be approved. This interview is usually carried out in person at a USCIS field office near the applicant’s residence.
Interview Questions
The USCIS officer will ask a series of questions depending on the type of status the applicant is seeking, so it is important to answer all questions truthfully. Additionally, if the applicant does not know or does not remember the answer to a question, he or she should simply say that he or she does not know or does not remember.
Green Card Interview Tips
- Candidates may request that their legal representative participate in the interview.
- Make sure you have a qualified interpreter if necessary.
- Please be respectful, courteous and dress appropriately as this is a formal government interview.
- Turn off your phone. You don't want any distractions during the interview.
- Be prepared. Make sure you bring all required documents to the interview and prove their case.
- It's normal to feel nervous, but it's important to try to stay calm. If your case is strong and you come prepared, there's usually no reason to get overly nervous.
- Report all arrests and encounters with law enforcement anywhere in the world. U.S. government databases are checked and rechecked throughout the adjustment of status application process. non-disclosure of adverse information may be detrimental for the outcome of your case.
- Please be patient, as final decisions may take several months to be made. Use the case status feature on the USCIS and avoid contacting USCIS before the estimated processing time.
I hope these tips are helpful. Good luck in your interview!
By Warren Janssen, Retired USCIS Director
