How to Prepare for an Immigration Visa Interview

After all the time and effort you’ve put into applying for your visa, it’s a relief to finally receive an appointment notice for your visa interview. At this last stage in the process, you’ll want to do everything you can to ensure your visa interview is a success. You’re likely feeling impatient to get through the process, so remember to think things through so you don’t miss important details. Confidence and preparedness will serve you well, as will the following tips to help you prepare for your visa interview.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. It’s better to be over prepared than under prepared, so make sure you have your paperwork together well in advance of the interview date.
2. Have your paperwork organized well in advance of the interview date. The night before, put your file in a location where you won’t forget to take it with you.
3. Don’t forget to bring your appointment notice and photo ID with you to the interview.
4. Double-check the interview date and time – you don’t want to miss it!
5. Lines queue up quickly so show up early for your appointment.
6. Bring cash. Some consulates/embassies require you to pay a fee for certain visas. Check your paperwork or call ahead to find out if this applies to you.
7. Get a good night sleep the evening before your visa interview.
8. Allow more time for travel to the interview than you think you will need.
9. Remember to fuel up and eat before the interview so you'll be at the top of your game to answer questions.
10. Plan out your travel to be sure you know how to get to the interview and leave more time that you think you’ll need to get there.
11. Business attire is not required but one can’t deny the impact of a good first impression. Dress nicely but simply. You’ll have to go through security when you arrive. Shoes, belt, jackets will have to come off. Purses/backpacks examined.
12. Bring a book so you'll have something to do while you wait.

Tips & Warnings

• Mobile phones and electronic devices are not allowed inside the consulate so be sure to leave them at home or in the hotel.