Prepare for your immigration interview: 7 mistakes to avoid
For many people, the immigration interview is the part of the process they worry about the most. It is normal to feel that way. The officer reviews your case, checks your information, and makes sure your application meets the requirements of U.S. law. This is not meant to be intimidating, but small mistakes can create delays that are easy to avoid. Preparation plays a big role in making the interview feel less stressful.
Arriving without the required original documents
The U.S. Department of State instructs applicants to bring all required original or certified civil documents to their interview. Missing documents can delay the case or prevent the officer from completing the review. Officers use these records to confirm identity, match information in your application, and verify that your case meets the requirements of U.S. law. United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) also requires officers to verify identity during adjustment of status interviews, which depends on an applicant having the correct documents available. Bringing organized originals helps the officer complete the steps they are required to take and keeps your case from being set aside until you provide the missing items.
Not reviewing your application before the interview
USCIS officers use the interview to verify the information in your application, including any details that were left unanswered or may have changed since you filed. If you do not review your application beforehand, you may give answers that do not match what you originally submitted. This can slow the interview because the officer must resolve any differences or unclear information. Reviewing your forms before the appointment helps you remember what you wrote and allows you to correct any information that is inaccurate or outdated during the interview, as permitted by USCIS.
Providing false or misleading information
USCIS reviews applications for accuracy and checks the information during the interview. USCIS explains that a person may be found inadmissible if they obtain an immigration benefit through fraud or willful misrepresentation. Officers must verify the details in your application, so any information that is not accurate can create problems that affect your case. Honest answers help the officer complete the review required under U.S. immigration law.
Arriving late to the interview
The U.S. Department of State instructs applicants to appear at the embassy or consulate on the scheduled date and time of their interview. Arriving late can cause delays at security or lead to a missed appointment. When this happens, the officer may not be able to complete your interview, and your case may need to be rescheduled. Arriving early enough to pass through security and reach the interview window helps you avoid these issues and ensures the officer can review your case as planned.
Giving long or unnecessary explanations
Some applicants speak at length when they feel nervous, which can make the interview harder for the officer to manage. Immigration attorneys often point out that long explanations or unrelated details can distract from the questions that matter for your case. The interview works best when your answers stay focused on what the officer asks. Keeping your responses short and relevant helps the conversation move in an organized way and prevents confusion that may lead to additional questioning.
Wearing clothing that is too casual for a formal appointment
An immigration interview is a formal appointment, similar to visiting a professional office or attending an important work meeting. Even though the U.S. government does not set a dress code, some applicants arrive in clothing that is very casual, which can affect how prepared they feel and how they present themselves during the conversation. Clothing that is simple and tidy can help you feel composed, present yourself in a professional way, and stay focused throughout the interview.
Responding in a Defensive or Rude Manner
Immigration interviews can be stressful, and some applicants react defensively when they feel nervous or when the officer asks follow-up questions. This can lead to short or tense responses that interrupt the flow of the interview. Officers often ask for more detail simply to understand the information in your file. Staying polite and steady throughout the conversation helps you communicate more effectively and keeps the interview on track. A calm and respectful tone supports a smoother exchange and helps you stay focused on the questions being asked.
Source:
- Department of State. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-10-prepare-for-the-interview/step-11-applicant-interview.html
- USCIS. https://www.uscis.gov/policy-manual/volume-7-part-a-chapter-5