Going to your immigrant visa interview at a U.S. Embassy can be intimidating for many people, but there is no need to be anxious. Knowing what to expect can be extremely helpful in managing your feelings. Every experience is slightly different, and our experienced team works one-on-one with each candidate to fully prepare them. Here are some tips on how to best prepare for your immigrant visa interview.
Five Mistakes NOT to Make at your Immigration Interview
Preparing for Your Immigration Interview
As we mentioned above, coming prepared for your interview is very important. If you come organized and prepared you will likely feel more comfortable on the day of the interview. Here are some general tips:
We always recommend to our clients to visit the USCIS field office where your interview will take place prior to the day of the interview (preferably at the same time of day). Make sure you know where the building is, how long it takes to get there, parking, security, and so on.
Common Immigration Interview Questions in 2021
Aside from organizing your documents, knowing what sort of questions you can expect to be asked will help you prepare for your interview. Answer all questions fully, succinctly, and truthfully, but do not volunteer information unless asked. If you’re unsure of the answer or do not understand a question, you should always say so rather than guess.
The interview will start with the USCIS officer greeting you and introducing themselves. You should do likewise. They might ask, “How are you?” or something similar. Many will make small talk, such as commenting about the weather. Most people report that their USCIS interviewer was friendly, but there are exceptions. The officer will explain the purpose of the interview.
Before going to your interview, be aware that you will be asked to swear an oath. When instructed, raise your right hand and wait until instructed to say the following: “Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth?” You might be asked if you understand what an oath is. It is essential to know that lying under oath is a crime and can make you ineligible to receive a Green Card.
You can expect questions asking basic personal information such as:
Should you apply for a marriage-based Green Card, expect to be asked these questions about your spouse, too.
It might seem strange to be asked questions about your physical appearance when your interviewer can easily see you. Nonetheless, you might be asked questions such as:
Be prepared to answer questions about your family. Should you apply for a marriage-based Green Card, there might also be questions about your spouse’s family. Typical questions include:
When applying for a marriage-based Green Card expect questions, some of which might ask about small details or be quite probing, about your relationship with your spouse. You and your spouse might even be questioned separately. Relationship questions for other types of Green Cards are usually more basic. Officers can ask a vast range of questions, but here are some examples:
You could be asked questions about any military service, either in the U.S. military or another country:
Your interviewer will want to know your immigration history and if you have maintained legal status
You might be asked about foreign travel. Be aware that travel to certain countries (generally those considered hostile to the U.S., such as Iran) might trigger more scrutiny. Have an explanation ready about the purpose of your travel. Possible general questions include:
Make sure you know where you lived and when. While it might be hard to remember every detail, especially if you have moved around, think and answer thoroughly. Possible questions include:
You should expect to answer quite a few questions about your education and employment if your Green Card application is employment-based. While people with family-based applications do not usually answer as many employment-related questions, that is not always the case. Some types of careers and jobs, such as those that appear political, might trigger more questions. Typical questions include:
USCIS officers often request to see tax returns, even if that is not listed on your interview notice as one of the documents you should bring. You might be asked questions about your tax history, such as
To be eligible for a Green Card, you must be of good moral character and uphold the laws of the U.S. Possible questions you might be asked include:
Form I-485 asks for a list of any organizations you are affiliated with, and you might be asked the same questions during your Green Card interview. Technically, USCIS means any organization, even very innocuous ones such as the Boy Scouts. Specifically, USCIS is looking to see if you are a member of an organization that could be considered a threat to the U.S. Memberships in some groups, such as terrorist organizations or the Communist Party, could make you ineligible to receive a Green Card. Typical questions include:
You are required to disclose any criminal record on Form I-485, and you must bring documentation with you to your interview if you have any such history. You might be asked questions such as:
The USCIS officer is allowed to ask you questions about any topic, even those you might find to be overly personal, such as what method of contraception you use. You are allowed to say if you feel a question is too personal, but be sure to decline politely, even if you find it rude. Such questions are more typical during marriage-based Green Card interviews. Some other unusual or personal questions you could be asked about include:
Marriage-Based Green Card Interview Questions 2022
Your interview process will begin the moment you walk into the USCIS office. When walking into the building, officers will look at the demeanor of both parties as individuals and as a couple from the moment they enter the building until the time they leave.
You will be placed together in an interview room, and an officer will begin directing questions for you both to answer as individuals or as a couple. The interview usually lasts an average of 15-20 minutes, and the questions are relatively straightforward.
Below are a few sample categories and marriage-based green card interview questions that each partner in a relationship should know about one another. Please note that these sample questions are not definite, and an immigration officer can ask questions not listed below.
What is a Marriage-Based Green Card?
A spouse can obtain a green card for an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen. A green card for your immigrant spouse is more commonly known as a marriage-based green card and has special immigration priority.
This green card grants the immigrant spouse permanent residency in the U.S., which allows them to live, work, and study in the U.S. legally. Additional green card benefits include being able to:
This marriage-based green card, which immigrant spouses should carry at all times, is valid for ten years. However, it can be renewed no less than six months before expiration for the immigrant spouse to maintain their legal residency.
FAQ
How long does it take to get interview after DS 260?
What questions are asked in immigrant visa interview?
- Initial Meeting. How did you meet your spouse? …
- Biographic Information. What is your spouse’s birthday? …
- Residence. Where does your spouse live? …
- Education and Employment Status. What does your spouse do for a living? …
- Cultural Background. …
- Common Interests. …
- Prior Marital Status. …
- Family.
What are the likely questions asked at the US Embassy?
- What is the reason for your travel to the United States? …
- What is the duration of your stay in the United States? …
- Where will you be staying? …
- Where do you stay in India? …
- Who is going to cover your expenses during the travel?
How can I pass US embassy interview?
- Ties to Home Country. …
- English. …
- Speak for Yourself. …
- Know the Program and How it Fits Your Career Plans. …
- Be Concise. …
- Supplemental Documentation. …
- Not All Countries Are Equal. …
- Employment.
