In this blog, we will focus on the marriage green card interview process, specifically speaking about cases that are being processed here in the United States through adjustment of status. Green card interviews are still being waived for spouses for some of our clients, meaning that we’re getting their cases approved without an interview, but for others, they’re being called in.
These interviews typically last anywhere from 15 minutes to even an hour. For most couples, they’re interviewed together, while very few others are separated. If that happens, they will likely interview the petitioner first, and then they’ll call in the beneficiary second.
In most cases, the government is looking for those ‘gotcha’ moments. They want to catch people in lies, misrepresentations, and fraud; these are the mistakes they’re commonly looking for, so make sure to stay focused and alert.
To avoid any unnecessary problems, we’re dedicating this blog to our top tips on how to get through the marriage petition interview!
See this topic on our YouTube Channel: Before Your Marriage Green Card Interview.
Be Careful About Inconsistent Responses
You’ve got to prepare before your interview! Sit down with your spouse and go through some of the basic things that are in your applications and on the forms about your relationship, your marriage, and your home life. Refresh your memory on those details important to immigration so that you will avoid these inconsistencies. However, during your interview, you will have an opportunity to clear up some of the inconsistencies.
If you have a lawyer present with you at the interview, the lawyer will be the person to catch the inconsistencies and can offer an opportunity for you to clear it up so that the record is clean and clear. If you attend your interview without a lawyer, you may or may not know that your spouse gave an inconsistent response. The only way that you’ll know is if the officer gives you an opportunity to clear things up, which is what they typically do.
Be Prepared for The Officer’s Personal Approach
Secondly, keep in mind that some immigration officers are actually really nice people, and they want to help you, but others are not. Others are very serious about the fact that fraud is part of the marriage process and they see a lot of fraud, and so they’re on high alert for it. They might come off as very cold, harsh, and stoic in appearance. Do not allow the disposition and appearance of that officer to interfere with how you’re feeling and how you’re going to be performing that day. Expect anything on that day so that when it happens, you will be prepared for it.
Don’t Forget Your Documents
Be sure to have all the documents that are required of you that day with you. If you don’t, it will slow down your case by getting a request for evidence. Make sure to read your interview notice very carefully because it will tell you what to bring, what original documents, and how many copies. You want to be certain that you have those copies because if you don’t have them, they’re going to ask for the original and you might end up giving away something very important such as a marriage or birth certificate. If you do not have copies, they’re not going to give you the opportunity on the spot to go make copies.
Try to Keep Calm
Another thing to expect is some nerves. Expect that you’re going to feel some butterflies that day because this is an incredibly important interview. The best way to combat this is through role play – go through some scenarios together. You can also watch some YouTube videos about how to prepare for the interview. This will help you feel a little bit more relaxed, but when the nerves do come, don’t allow the nerves to throw you off. Stay level-headed and breathe; take a moment before answering the questions, and then just feel that sense of confidence kick in.
Hope for the Best, but Prepare for the Worst
And, finally, expect that the government will be suspecting fraud, but don’t allow that suspicion to throw you off. Expect that you’re going to get that feeling that some of the questions will appear like you’re in a fake marriage. It’s not a pleasant feeling, especially for those of you who are going into this with a genuine marriage. You don’t want to be put on the spot like you’re doing something wrong, but don’t let that feeling throw you off. Just expect the worst and use this as an opportunity to show them, to demonstrate that your marriage is genuine. You have your documents to back that claim.
Hopefully, these tips are helpful to you. If you have any additional questions or want to book a consultation with the McBean Law team, feel free to reach out.
Planning Your Roadmap to Success
Whether you are seeking assistance with visa applications, green cards, citizenship, or any other immigration matter, we are here to help you every step of the way. Our mission is not just to provide legal services but to empower our clients with the knowledge and resources they need to achieve their immigration goals. With proper legal counsel, persistent preparation, and meticulous attention to detail, your success can become a reality, too. Partner with professionals like McBean Law to chart your visa journey’s triumph.
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LaToya McBean Pompy is an immigration lawyer who immigrated to the United States from Jamaica. Her experience sparked an interest in helping many families be together in the U.S. by founding McBean Law. If you need help with your or a loved one’s visa, contact us here or call us today at (888)-462-4006 to schedule a private consultation with LaToya and her team of New York immigration lawyers who are here to help you.
