Finally reaching the interview part of the green card application process can feel like a huge relief. You are in the home stretch, but the interview is arguably one of the most important parts of the process. Continue reading and speak with a skilled Montgomery County green card lawyer to learn more about the green card interview and how you can prepare.
Who Can Accompany You to Your Green Card Interview?
There are a few approved people that you can bring with you to your interview, but do not bring anyone unnecessarily. The following are some people who may accompany you.
An interpreter for translation purposes. If you are not fluent in English you can attend the interview with an interpreter who brings a government-issued ID, takes an oath, completes a privacy release form, and signs form G-1256, the Declaration for Interpreted USCIS Interview.
An individual who is listed on your appointment notice can also come. This is probably a family member who is sponsoring your stay or your spouse.
You may also wish to bring your immigration lawyer to your interview. This can be especially important if you have a prior criminal history or immigration issues that may impact the outcome of your interview.
What Kind of Questions Will Be Asked?
Every green card interview is unique so there is no way to tell exactly which questions a USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) officer will ask. However, they are usually specific and personal questions about your desire for resident status and your daily life. Some questions you may face can include:
- What made you want to come to the United States?
- When and where did you propose to your spouse?
- Where was your wedding ceremony?
- What medications, if any, does your spouse take?
- What sports do your children play?
- What religion do you and your family practice?
How Can I Prepare for the Interview?
Ensure you are adequately prepared for the interview to avoid conflict and ease any nerves you may have. The following can be helpful preparation steps.
- Organize necessary materials and documents. You do not want to be scrambling to print out copies of important papers on the morning of your interview. Check which documentation you will need and organize them ahead of time.
- Review your application to ensure that the information you provided is still accurate. Sometimes circumstances change between you submitting your application and your scheduled interview. If any information on your application has changed prepare to inform the officer and offer necessary information. For example, if you got married and changed your name bring legal documents that prove your name change.
- Research what will go on during the interview process. It is normal to feel nervous but knowing what you are walking into can help ease your worries.
- While you should not rehearse your answers to questions, you can have a practice interview to ensure you are ready for the real thing. Have a friend or family member ask you questions that your interviewer might have for you. Practicing will allow you to develop a sense of confidence and feel more comfortable when it comes to the real interview.
