The USCIS interview is one of the most important steps in the U.S. immigration process. Whether you’re applying for a green card, naturalization, or another immigration benefit, your interview is the moment when everything you’ve submitted—forms, documents, photos, and declarations—is evaluated in person by a USCIS officer.
For many immigrants, the idea of sitting in a federal office answering questions can be intimidating. But with the right preparation and an understanding of what to expect, your USCIS interview can be a straightforward and even empowering experience.
This guide will help you prepare for your interview, understand how it works, and avoid common mistakes that lead to delays or complications.
Why the USCIS Interview Matters
The interview gives USCIS a chance to:
- Verify your identity and eligibility
- Assess the accuracy and consistency of your application
- Ask clarifying questions
- Detect fraud or misrepresentation
For family-based green card applicants, especially spouses, the interview is also used to confirm the legitimacy of the relationship. For naturalization applicants, it includes an English and civics test.
Who Is Required to Attend a USCIS Interview?
Most applicants applying for adjustment of status (Form I-485), naturalization (Form N-400), and certain other immigration benefits are required to attend an in-person interview.
You may be called for a USCIS interview if:
- You are adjusting status to permanent resident (green card holder)
- You applied for U.S. citizenship
- You petitioned for a family member (as a petitioner or beneficiary)
- There is a need for additional information or document clarification
USCIS may waive the interview in some straightforward cases, but this is never guaranteed.
Before the Interview: What to Do
As soon as you receive your interview notice (Form I-797C), begin preparing. The notice includes the date, time, and location of your interview.
Step 1: Review Your Case
- Read through every form you submitted—especially Forms I-130, I-485, I-864, N-400, or DS-260
- Make sure you understand and remember what you wrote
- Be prepared to explain any changes in address, work, or personal details
Step 2: Organize Your Documents
Create a folder with original documents and a separate copy set, including:
- Your interview appointment notice
- Government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license, etc.)
- Birth certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees (if applicable)
- Immigration documents (visa, I-94, previous USCIS receipts)
- Proof of relationship (photos, joint leases, bank accounts, communication logs)
- Tax returns, W-2s, and pay stubs (especially for sponsors)
- Any document USCIS has requested in a prior notice (like an RFE)
Step 3: Dress and Prepare Mentally
- Wear clean, professional clothing—business casual is sufficient
- Plan your route to the USCIS field office and arrive 15–30 minutes early
- Get a good night’s sleep beforehand
If you are nervous, that’s normal. Review practice questions with a friend or loved one. Practicing out loud can ease anxiety.
During the Interview: What to Expect
When you arrive at the USCIS field office:
- Go through security (similar to airport screening)
- Check in at the reception desk
- Wait for your name or case number to be called
You will then be led into a private office with a USCIS officer. The officer will:
- Swear you in under oath to tell the truth
- Ask for your ID and appointment letter
- Begin reviewing your application and documents
Common Green Card Interview Questions
- What is your current address and who lives with you?
- When and how did you meet your spouse? (in marriage-based cases)
- Have you ever worked in the U.S. without authorization?
- Do you have any criminal history?
- What was the purpose of your last trip abroad?
Common Naturalization Interview Questions
- Why do you want to become a U.S. citizen?
- Have you traveled outside the U.S. in the past 5 years?
- Have you ever failed to file taxes?
- Are you willing to take the Oath of Allegiance?
For naturalization, you will also take the English reading and writing test and a civics test covering U.S. history and government.
Key Interview Tips
- Be honest. If you don’t know or remember something, say so.
- Listen carefully to each question before answering.
- Keep your answers brief and to the point.
- Be polite and professional.
USCIS officers are trained to detect fraud and inconsistencies—but they are also human. Staying calm and respectful will help the process.
After the Interview: What Comes Next
At the end of the interview, the officer may:
- Approve your application on the spot
- Issue a request for more evidence (RFE)
- Place your case under further review
- Deny the application (if there are disqualifying factors)
If approved:
- For green card applicants, your card will arrive by mail in a few weeks
- For naturalization, you will receive a notice for your oath ceremony
If you are not approved immediately, don’t panic. Many cases require additional review.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to bring original documents
- Not reviewing your forms beforehand
- Giving inconsistent answers to previously submitted information
- Arriving late or unprepared
Documentation Tips
- Make copies of everything you take to the interview
- Use labeled folders to keep your evidence organized
- Update USCIS with any address changes before your interview date
USCIS-Related Insights
- USCIS interviews typically last 20–45 minutes
- You can request an interpreter or bring one with advance notice
- You are allowed to bring an immigration attorney or representative
FAQ
1. Can I reschedule my USCIS interview if I can’t attend?
Yes, but you must request a reschedule in writing before the interview date. Only one reschedule is typically allowed.
2. What happens if I fail the civics test during my naturalization interview?
You will be given a second opportunity to take the portion you failed, usually within 60–90 days.
3. Can I bring my spouse to the interview?
In marriage-based green card cases, your spouse is usually required to attend. For other applications, check the notice.
4. Will I get a decision at the interview?
Sometimes yes, but not always. If your case needs more review or evidence, USCIS may take weeks to issue a decision.
5. What should I do if I don’t understand a question during the interview?
Politely ask the officer to repeat or clarify the question. Never guess—honesty and clarity are key.
Comments are closed