Foreign nationals must first apply for a green card to live and work permanently within the United States. Becoming a permanent resident is often challenging and only applies to those who meet the stringent eligibility requirements. One critical step in this application process is undergoing a green card interview. Essentially, this interview will take place at a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) field office, U.S. embassy, or consulate closest to you, depending on whether you apply from inside or outside the country. This interview is intended to verify that you qualify to become a permanent resident and that all the information provided on the application is legitimate. If you need assistance navigating this complex process, it’s essential to speak with our experienced Essex County Green Card Attorneys, who can effectively guide you through each step. Please continue reading to learn what you can do to prepare for your green card interview to ensure it goes as smoothly as possible.
What is a Green Card Interview?
If you’ve applied for a green card, whether your eligibility is based on family, employment, or marriage, the green card interview will be the final step. As mentioned above, this interview enables USCIS to verify critical information regarding your eligibility for permanent residence. During your appointment, the USCIS officer will question you about the content of your application to ensure honesty and consistency. If you’re applying for a marriage-based green card, the interviewing officer will verify the information in your application and evaluate the authenticity of your marriage.
To ace your interview, you must understand the questions that may be asked and the necessary documents to bring along. The appointment notice should list the paperwork you must bring to your interview. This may include:
- A government-issued ID (driver’s license or passport)
- A copy of form I-485
- A complete copy of your adjustment of status application packet
- Form I-639, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record -report of your medical exam
- Travel documents
- Documentation and evidence proving your marriage is bona fide (marriage-based green card)
- An employment verification letter indicating that you’re gainfully employed (employment-based green card)
It’s important to understand that there is minimal difference between those applying from within the U.S. and those from outside the country. Therefore, the documentation you must bring to your green card interview will be the same. However, if your situation has changed since you initially filed your application, you must get new support evidence to reflect the new circumstances.
Furthermore, the questions you will be asked during the green card interview will be personal. The questions will be about family, work, education, criminal history, relationship history, and immigration history. To maximize your chances of receiving approval, you should always be truthful in your responses.
If you’re applying for a green card, please don’t hesitate to contact the Law Offices of Christopher T. Howell, Esq., who can work with you to ensure all the necessary steps are followed to help you become a permanent resident.
