How to Prepare for Adjustment of Status (AOS) or Green Card Application Interview
To those foreign nationals in the US who applied for adjustment of status or green card application from being a nonimmigrant to having a green card, an interview is expected after their application is processed. For most applicant, however, the interview is waived but in some case they are called for an interview. For those whose interview is waived, you will get an approval letter from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office handling your case. But for those who receive a notice to appear for interview, here are steps to get prepared:
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
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Make a checklist of the documents you need to bring with you to the interview appointment as specified in the letter you received from USCIS. Start working on preparing those documents ahead of time so you will have plenty of time to review the information and be ready for the interview.
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If you made back-up copies of every documents and paperwork that you and your sponsor have submitted, this is the time to review them thoroughly. Review all the questions and answers on all the forms and documents especially the important dates, financial figures, and your immigration history.
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If you hired an attorney to handle your application, you can take him/her with you to the interview. Take all original documents you used to enter the US such as your passport and all your I-94's (arrival/departure) records. Carry the originals of other documents you have received from the US consulate or USCIS such as Advance Parole and Employment Authorization Document (EAD). If you submitted copies of documents to USCIS such as marriage and birth certificates, carry the originals as well.
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If there are important changes that happened in your life since the filing of the adjustment of status application, remember to bring with you the appropriate documentation. If there's a new baby coming, show proofs such as pregnancy and ultrasound results. If you or your spouse has a new job, bring a new employment letter and copies of recent pay stubs from the company.
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Observe proper dress code when you come for interview. Dress neatly, professionally, and even conservatively. Avoid wearing clothes that might make the interviewing officer wonder about your lifestyle or moral. It is important to make a good impression. Be confident and relaxed.
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On the day of the appointment, be at least 15 minutes early. You will go thru a similar security check done at the airport. Be sure to leave your electronic gadgets such as cell phone at home or in your car since this is not allowed inside your local USCIS office where the interview will be conducted. While waiting for your turn at the waiting room, take time to relax and familiarize the surroundings. Once called in, your identification will be checked and you will be asked to take an oath to tell the truth before the interview starts.
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The interview will last about 30 minutes and will be videotaped. Listen carefully to the questions and answer them honestly and with confidence. The interviewing officer will ask you questions mainly on the information you provided in your application and other questions relevant to the process. Be ready with your documents and other proofs since he/she may ask it from you anytime to further check and verify your eligibility to receive a green card.
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