The Green Card Interview: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Published on: November 7, 2025

💡 Purpose of the Green Card Interview

The interview allows a USCIS or consular officer to verify your identity, confirm your eligibility, and test the authenticity of your relationship (if marriage-based).
It’s not meant to trick you — it’s designed to make sure your case is truthful, consistent, and complete.

🏛️ Where the Interview Takes Place

Inside the U.S.: You’ll attend at your local USCIS field office after filing Form I-485.
Outside the U.S.: You’ll go to a U.S. consulate after completing Form DS-260 and the NVC process.

You’ll receive an appointment notice (Form I-797 or letter from NVC) showing the date, time, and location.

📄 Documents to Bring

Bring originals and copies of every document you submitted. Typical items include:

Passport(s) and photo IDs
Appointment notice and interview letter
Birth certificates (petitioner and applicant)
Marriage certificate or divorce decrees (if applicable)
Tax returns, pay stubs, and Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
Proof of relationship: photos, joint bills, lease, etc.
I-94 arrival/departure record (if inside the U.S.)
Medical exam results (Form I-693, if not already submitted)

Tip: Organize your documents in a binder with labeled sections — this shows professionalism and saves time.

💬 Common Interview Questions

Expect both personal and factual questions. Examples include:

How and when did you meet your spouse?
Where do you live and work?
What are your daily routines together?
Have you met each other’s families?
For family-based cases: Who filed your I-130? When?

If employment-based, the officer may ask about your job duties, employer, or work history.

🧭 How to Prepare

Review Your Forms: Make sure you remember what you wrote — your answers must match.
Be Honest: Never guess; if you’re unsure, say “I don’t remember exactly.”
Arrive Early: At least 30 minutes before your appointment.
Dress Neatly: Business-casual is appropriate.
Practice Calm Body Language: Make eye contact and smile naturally.

⚠️ Mistakes to Avoid

Submitting expired medical exams or missing originals
Inconsistent answers between you and your spouse
Bringing incomplete evidence or unorganized paperwork
Arriving late or missing your appointment notice
Acting defensive, nervous, or argumentative with the officer

💬 After the Interview

You may receive one of three outcomes:

✅ Approved: Congratulations — your Green Card will arrive by mail.
🕒 Pending: USCIS needs more time or additional evidence (you’ll receive a letter).
❌ Denied: You’ll receive an explanation and may have options to reapply or appeal.

🎯 Bonus Tips for Success

Bring updated evidence (recent photos, new bills, etc.).
Study your timeline and key facts — officers value consistency.
If your marriage is new, emphasize shared plans and commitments (future goals, joint accounts, etc.).
Be polite and brief — simple, direct answers are best.

The Green Card interview is not a test — it’s your opportunity to show that your story is real. Preparation, honesty, and calm confidence are the keys to success.