What Happens During a Green Card Interview?

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Navigating the green card interview process is crucial for obtaining lawful permanent residency in the U.S. This guide outlines what to expect during your interview, how to prepare effectively, and highlights the importance of having an attorney near you to assist with any complexities that may arise.

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Discover what to expect during a green card interview, including essential preparation steps, common questions, and tips for success. Whether you're applying for a marriage-based or employment-based green card, understanding the process can help you secure lawful permanent residency in the U.S. Need assistance? Connect with a trusted immigration attorney near you.

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Illustration of a person sitting across from a USCIS officer at a desk, answering questions during a green card interview, with documents being reviewed.

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What Happens During a Green Card Interview?

The green card interview is one of the most critical steps in the immigration process. It allows U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or a U.S. consulate officer to verify the accuracy of your application and determine whether you meet the legal requirements for lawful permanent residency.

A well-prepared applicant is more likely to pass the interview without delays. This guide will walk you through what happens during the green card interview, how to prepare, common questions asked, and what to do if complications arise.

💡 For every post in this series, scroll down to “Related Posts.”

Who Needs a Green Card Interview?

Most green card applicants are required to attend an interview. The specific process depends on whether you are applying from within the U.S. or outside the U.S.

Applicants filing for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) with USCIS – Attend an interview at a USCIS field office in the U.S.

Applicants applying through Consular Processing (Form DS-260) – Attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.

Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Green Card Interview Process

Step 1: Receiving the Interview Notice

Once USCIS or the National Visa Center (NVC) processes your case, you will receive an interview notice with:

The date, time, and location of your interview.

A list of documents you must bring.

For family-based green cards, both the applicant and the sponsoring relative must attend.

Step 2: Preparing for Your Interview

Documents You Must Bring

Appointment notice (Form I-797C)

Government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license)

Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) or Form DS-260 (Consular Processing)

Original copies of all supporting documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, etc.)

Proof of financial support (Form I-864, Affidavit of Support)

Medical exam results (Form I-693) in a sealed envelope

Evidence of a bona fide marriage (if applicable) – joint lease agreements, bank statements, wedding photos, affidavits from friends/family

For employment-based green card applicants, bring:

A job offer letter from your U.S. employer

Pay stubs and tax returns (if already working in the U.S.)

Educational degrees and qualifications

Step 3: Arriving at the Interview

Arrive at least 30 minutes early to go through security and check-in.

Dress professionally—the interview is a formal legal process.

Bring an interpreter if you are not fluent in English (USCIS does not provide interpreters for most interviews).

Step 4: What Happens During the Interview?

The interview is conducted by a USCIS officer (if in the U.S.) or a consular officer (if abroad). The officer will:

Review your application and supporting documents.

Ensure all information is correct.

Check for inconsistencies or missing details.

Ask Questions About Your Background, Relationship, or Job.

Family-based applicants will be asked about their marriage and relationship history.

Employment-based applicants will be asked about their job duties and employer.

Assess Whether You Meet Green Card Eligibility Requirements.

If applying through marriage, the officer will look for signs of a fraudulent marriage.

If applying through employment, the officer will verify your job details.

Common Questions Asked During the Green Card Interview

For Marriage-Based Green Card Applicants:

How did you and your spouse meet?

What are your spouse’s hobbies and interests?

Where did you go on your honeymoon?

Who handles the finances in your household?

What side of the bed does your spouse sleep on?

Have you met each other’s families?

For a deeper dive into marriage-based green card interviews, see Green Card Through Marriage: Process, Requirements, and Timeline.

For Family-Sponsored Green Card Applicants:

How is your sponsor related to you?

When was the last time you saw your sponsor?

How often do you communicate with your sponsor?

For Employment-Based Green Card Applicants:

What does your company do?

What are your job responsibilities?

How did you get hired for this position?

What is your salary?

Have you worked for this employer before?

For Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery Applicants:

What do you know about the Diversity Visa program?

What are your plans after moving to the U.S.?

Do you have any family members in the U.S.?

For more on the Diversity Visa process, see The Green Card Lottery: How to Apply and Improve Your Odds.

Step 5: What Happens After the Interview?

1. Immediate Approval

If the officer is satisfied with your interview and documents, you may be approved on the spot. You will receive:

A passport stamp indicating lawful permanent residency.

Your green card in the mail within 2-3 weeks.

2. Request for Additional Evidence (RFE)

If the officer needs more documents, they will issue an RFE (Request for Evidence).

You must submit the requested documents within the deadline (usually 30-90 days).

3. Green Card Application Denial

If your application is denied, you will receive a denial letter explaining the reason. Common reasons include:

Inconsistent answers during the interview.

Insufficient evidence of a valid marriage or family relationship.

Failure to meet financial sponsorship requirements.

Past visa overstays, fraud, or criminal history.

For guidance on what to do after a green card denial, see What to Do if Your Green Card Application is Denied.

What If My Green Card Interview Is Delayed or Rescheduled?

If you cannot attend your scheduled interview, you must request a reschedule by contacting USCIS or the U.S. consulate.

Failure to attend without proper notice may result in a denial.

Some reschedules may take months, depending on office backlogs.

Tips for a Successful Green Card Interview

Be honest and consistent – Giving conflicting answers can lead to denial.

Bring all required documents – Missing paperwork can delay your case.

Stay calm and confident – The interview is a formal process, but being nervous won’t help.

Know your application details – Review your answers before the interview.

Avoid coaching or rehearsed answers – Officers are trained to detect memorized responses.

Final Thoughts

The green card interview is a key step toward permanent residency in the U.S. With proper preparation, honesty, and supporting documents, most applicants can successfully pass their interview and receive their green card.

If you need legal assistance with your green card interview or immigration case, ReferU.AI can connect you with a trusted immigration attorney near you. Ensure your green card application process goes smoothly—get expert help today!

What Happens During a Green Card Interview?