What to Expect at Your Green Card Interview

A Green Card interview is when an official from the U.S. Government meets with the Green Card candidate to verify all the information provided in their original application. This information includes determining the applicant’s eligibility for permanent U.S. residency and validating the accuracy of the provided details.

The Green Card interview typically occurs 7 to 15 months after filing the Green Card Application. The interview is usually held at a local United States Citizenship and Immigration Services office or the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

If your interview takes place in the U.S., the person conducting it will either be a USCIS officer or a consular official. Interviewers receive specific training based on the type of Green Card you are applying for.

The interviewer’s primary objective is to confirm that the information submitted in your application matches the responses you provide during the interview. Depending on the type and purpose of the application, there may be additional goals for the interview. For instance, if you are applying for a marriage-based Green Card, the interviewer will seek to confirm the authenticity of your marriage. If you are applying based on family ties, they will verify your relationship to your relative as stated in your application.

Expect the interviewer to ask personal questions and delve into topics you may not consider directly related to your application. Interviewers will conduct background checks and inquire about your immigration and criminal histories.

It is crucial to be as honest as possible when responding to any questions. If you encounter a question to which you don’t have an answer, it’s better to admit that you don’t know rather than provide false information.

Avoid providing half-truths to the interviewer. During this interview, your aim should be to be honest and sincere, even if some answers may be uncomfortable or potentially detrimental to your application. Dishonesty can lead to application denial and seriously impact your chances of residing in the U.S.

Personal questions may include inquiries about your birthday, daily routine, job, or favorite food. These questions are designed to help the interviewer get to know you better and put you at ease.

If you have children, expect questions about them to go beyond their names and ages. You may be asked about their favorite foods, schooling, hobbies, extracurricular activities, and interests.

Regarding your spouse, interviewers will inquire about how you met, your first date, and possibly details like your honeymoon destination. They may also seek information about your spouse’s background, medication, pet peeves, place of origin, and the duration of your relationship.

Immigration officials may ask very personal questions, especially when applying for a Marriage Green Card. Be prepared to answer inquiries that you might consider private. If a question feels intrusive, you can express your discomfort to the interviewing officer. By doing so, you demonstrate your willingness to cooperate while maintaining honesty and openness. Even in uncomfortable situations, always prioritize honesty when responding to their questions.

Questions about your family history, religion, or important events may also arise. These inquiries might include discussions about your family’s significant holidays, your religious practices or special occasions, and the holidays you observe.
This post was written by Okoye Morgan Jr., a lawyer with extensive knowledge as a personal injury lawyer in Tampa, FL. Okoye is one of the founding partners of The Black Law Company, the best immigration lawyer in Tampa.