When can I expect an interview in connection with my immigration application?
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Whether there is an interview first depends on what type of application you filed. Not all application types require an interview, and sometimes decisions are made on the application without an interview. The most common types of applications that regularly require interview are marriage or family-based green card applications and U.S citizenship applications. Other types of applications that may require an interview are removal of conditions of residence (Form I-751) or petitions for family relatives (Form I-130).
Under this administration, the applications that will require an interview before a decision on the application is expanding. Most recently, applications for green cards through employment and refugee/asylee relative petitions (Form I-730) will begin requiring interviews.
The purpose of these interviews are for immigration officials can verify the information and accuracy of the information in the application, screen and vet individuals seeking permanent status in the U.S., and discover any new information that may help them make a decision.
Where the interview happens depends on what type of process you are in, and sometimes where you live. For example, if you are processing your application through the Department of State, the interview will be conducted at the U.S. embassy in the country you have citizenship or legal residence that handles your type of case. If you are processing stateside, and the application is filed with US CIS, the interview will be scheduled with the US CIS office with jurisdiction over your address. To figure out what office your interview would be in click here:
https://www.uscis.gov/about-us/find-uscis-office/field-offices
In all cases that require an interview, you will be sent an interview notice through snail mail or e-mail with a time, date, and address to present yourself and for the person who is filing for you if applicable. This notice is usually sent at least one month before the interview date and has a list of things to bring to the interview. This means you need to keep your address current with immigration to get all notices. If you fail to go to an interview without rescheduling, your application will most likely be denied.
If you are scheduled for an interview, you will not receive a decision on your case until the interview or after. You may get a decision on the spot, get a request for additional paperwork to support your application, or receive a decision in the mail after it.
L.I.H. Law, P.S. has been helping people prepare and representing clients at interviews for 14 years. Please call us (206-838-7628) to schedule a consultation if you would like to discuss this topic in depth.
