The marriage green card interview is the final step in the process of applying for a green card through marriage. The main goal of the interview is for the officer to confirm that your marriage is genuine. They will ask questions about your relationship history, daily life together, and plans. If the officer believes your marriage is real, they will approve your spouse for a green card.
Overview
The interview is the last major step and can feel stressful, but knowing what to expect can help reduce the pressure. It’s important to be prepared and organized for this appointment.
Important Tip
Green card interviews in the U.S. are handled by USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services), while interviews abroad are handled by the U.S. State Department.
For Spouses Living in the U.S.
Once USCIS has reviewed your green card application, your case will be sent to the local USCIS office near you. You will receive an appointment notice with details of your interview time and location.
For Spouses Living Abroad
If you’re applying from abroad, the National Visa Center (NVC) reviews your documents and then sends your case to the U.S. Embassy or consulate in your spouse’s home country. The foreign spouse will be asked to attend the interview, but the U.S. sponsor does not need to be there.
Getting Ready for the Interview
To make the interview process easier, here’s how to prepare:
- Review your relationship: Discuss key dates and events in your relationship together before the interview.
- Gather documents: Bring all original documents you submitted with your application (passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc.). Be sure to also bring any evidence that proves your marriage is authentic, such as recent photos, joint tax returns, bank statements, or joint insurance policies. If you live in different countries, consider including travel itineraries or phone records.
- Stay organized: Keep all your documents in one folder and arrange photos in chronological order to show your relationship’s timeline.
At the Interview
The Interviewing Officer
A USCIS officer (if in the U.S.) or a consular officer (if abroad) will conduct the interview. Their goal is to confirm that the marriage is legitimate and that the foreign spouse qualifies for a green card. The officer will ask about the spouse’s entry into the U.S., their background, and previous immigration history.
Types of Questions
The officer will ask about your relationship’s history, your daily life together, and your plans. They may also ask about personal details, so it’s important to answer honestly and directly. If you don’t know or can’t remember an answer, it’s okay to say so instead of guessing.
Interviewing Separately
In some cases, you may be interviewed separately. This is called a “Stokes” interview, where each spouse is questioned on their own and their answers are compared for consistency. This can happen if there are concerns about the marriage’s authenticity or if new information has come up during the process.
What Happens After the Interview?
After the interview, you could face one of five possible outcomes:
- Approval: The officer will approve your case, and the green card will be issued.
- Request for Evidence (RFE): If the officer needs more proof of your marriage, they will ask for additional documents.
- Additional Review: Your case will be sent for further review, and you may need to wait for a decision.
- Second Interview: If the officer needs more information, they may schedule a second interview.
- Denial: If your marriage is deemed fraudulent or there are serious issues with your application, the officer may deny your green card.
FAQs
- How should I dress for the interview?
Dress professionally or in business attire for the interview. - What kind of questions will I be asked?
Expect questions about your relationship, family, work, and education. Be ready to provide honest answers. - What documents should I bring to my CR-1 visa interview?
Bring all relevant documents like passports, birth certificates, and financial records. - How can I reduce my nervousness?
Prepare thoroughly. Familiarizing yourself with the process and potential questions can help ease anxiety. - What are common mistakes to avoid?
Avoid being late, forgetting documents, or providing incorrect information, as these can delay or even deny your green card. - How long will the interview take?
The length varies depending on how many questions the officer asks and how long it takes to review your documents. - Can I get a green card without an interview?
Generally, no. Most couples must attend an interview, but in rare cases, it can be waived. - Is there an interview for the fiancé visa?
Yes, the K-1 fiancé visa also requires a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or consulate where your case is processed.
By preparing well and understanding the process, you can feel more confident and ready for the marriage green card interview.
