The U.S. immigration interview is a crucial step in many immigration processes, from green cards to adjustment of status to naturalization. It’s your chance to present supporting documents, answer questions honestly, and show you meet the legal requirements for the benefit you’re seeking. This guide will help you understand what to expect and how to prepare, including sample questions and common mistakes to avoid.
What Is the Immigration Interview?
An immigration interview is a formal meeting between an applicant and an officer from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the Department of State (if applying abroad). The interview allows the officer to verify your application details, assess your eligibility, and evaluate your intent.
Depending on your application type, you might be interviewed for:
- Adjustment of Status (green card)
- Family-based petitions
- Employment-based petitions
- Asylum applications
- Naturalization (citizenship)
Who Needs to Attend an Interview?
You’ll likely need an interview if you’re applying for:
- A green card through marriage or family sponsorship
- An employment-based green card, especially if adjusting status
- Citizenship through naturalization
- Asylum or refugee status
- A K-1 fiancé visa or spousal visa
USCIS typically requires both spouses to attend a marriage-based interview. Employment-based applicants may not be interviewed if the application is strong and policy allows it, but interviews have become more common since 2017.
How to Prepare Before the Interview
1. Review Your Application
Carefully review every form you submitted (I-130, I-485, N-400, etc.) and make sure you remember key facts — dates, addresses, employment history, travel records, and financial information.
2. Gather All Required Documents
Bring originals and copies of the following:
- Appointment notice
- Government-issued ID (passport, green card, etc.)
- Birth certificate and translations (if applicable)
- Marriage certificate, divorce decrees, adoption records
- Proof of financial support (Form I-864, tax returns, pay stubs)
- Travel documents (I-94, visas)
- Updated forms (if there were changes)
What Happens During the Interview?
- You’ll check in at the USCIS field office or U.S. consulate
- An officer will verify your identity and place you under oath
- The officer will go through your application, asking follow-up questions
- They may ask personal or relationship-based questions (for marriage cases)
- You may be asked to provide additional documents or clarification
Most interviews last 20 to 45 minutes. You may get a decision the same day or receive a Request for Evidence (RFE) later.
Sample Immigration Interview Questions
Here are examples of questions based on the type of case:
For Marriage-Based Green Card:
- When and where did you meet your spouse?
- What does your spouse do for work?
- Who proposed and how?
- What side of the bed do you sleep on?
- What was the last meal you shared together?
For Naturalization:
- What is the supreme law of the land?
- How many amendments does the Constitution have?
- Who is the Governor of your state now?
- Have you ever failed to file a tax return?
- Do you support the Constitution and U.S. government?
For Employment-Based Green Card:
- What is your current job title and duties?
- How did you find this job?
- What is your salary?
- How many employees are at your company?
Tips for a Successful Interview
- Arrive early: Plan to be at least 30 minutes early
- Dress appropriately: Business casual is ideal
- Stay calm and honest: Never guess if you don’t know the answer
- Answer directly: Don’t volunteer extra information unless asked
- Bring an interpreter: If you’re not fluent in English and your interview notice allows it
- Bring an attorney: If you’ve had prior immigration issues or complications
What Happens After the Interview?
- If all goes well, the officer may approve your case on the spot
- You may get a Request for Evidence (RFE) if something is missing
- If the officer has doubts (especially in marriage-based cases), they might schedule a second interview or conduct a home visit
- In rare cases, your case may be denied — you’ll receive a written explanation and can appeal or reapply
How Long After the Interview Do You Get a Decision?
Timelines vary:
| Interview Type | Typical Decision Time |
|---|---|
| Marriage-Based Green Card | 2 weeks – 3 months |
| Naturalization | Same day – 4 weeks |
| Employment-Based | 2 weeks – 3 months |
| Asylum | Several months or longer |
If approved, your green card or naturalization certificate will be mailed shortly after.
Red Flags That Can Delay or Derail Your Case
- Inconsistent answers during a marriage interview
- Failing to disclose prior immigration violations or arrests
- Incomplete or outdated documents
- Missing joint financial records (for marriage-based applicants)
- Suspicion of fraudulent intent (fake marriage, job offer, etc.)
Can You Reschedule a USCIS Interview?
Yes, but you must request rescheduling in advance by contacting USCIS through your account or calling 800-375-5283. Failure to attend without notice may result in denial.
