If the green card applicant doesn’t have a native English speaker, they can bring an interpreter to the interview. The interpreter does not need to be an official or registered but should speak both the applicant’s mother tongue and English. Note that the sponsoring spouse cannot serve as an interpreter. In the interview, the interpreter will also have to swear an oath and sign a contract affirming they are translating correctly. Here in this article, we’ll discuss what all the applicants experience at the green card interview whether they apply based on family connection, job, or something else.
The Green Card Interview
This is a crucial aspect of the U.S. immigration process. It’s the meeting where you will talk to an officer of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The officer at the interview will look over the information on your green card application to see if you are eligible and verify all this information.
What to Expect at Your Green Card Interview?
You’ll interview for your green card at a USCIS field office in your region. You’ll also have to take along some documents (this will be explained in the interview notification you receive from USCIS). These documents might include:
- Your passport
- Copies of your green card application.
- Original copies of supporting documents (eg, marriage certificate, tax documents)
- Anything else USCIS may ask you to provide?
Essential Tip:
- Dress professionally for your interview. Dress business casual and try to keep it professional. Beware of shorts, flip-flops, or otherwise unprofessional clothing.
- The USCIS agent will question you during the interview, verify your identity, review your application, and find out more about you. They might also inquire more about your travel history, job, schooling, and genealogy.
How to Get Ready for Your Green Card Interview?
The things you can do to prepare:
- Gather Your Papers: Gather all the documents you need such as identification, green card application, and supporting documentation.
- Examine Your Application: Review what is in your application and keep it in mind. Prepare to talk about it.
- Get Rid Of Most Common Interview Questions: You may want to get a handle on the standard interview questions such as your background, your US citizenship, and why you’re requesting a green card.
Common Green Card Interview Questions
In the interview, the USCIS officer will be asking you questions about your application. These may be the topics they will address:
Personal Information:
- Your name, birth date, and current location.
- How about your relatives?
Travel History:
- What number of foreign trips have you made outside the U.S. since your arrival?
- When and why did you visit?
Employment and Education:
- Where are you located and what is your job title?
- Can you tell us a bit about your education?
U.S. Residency:
- Since when were you in the United States?
- Are you in violation of your visa/residency conditions?
What Not to Say at Your Green Card Interview?
So for your interview to flow smoothly, do not make these errors:
- Never Share Untruthful Information: Be honest in your answers. If you don’t know the answer to a question, say so instead of guessing.
- Don’t Give Any Other Data: Answer the question you’re asked. Give them no information and no narration.
- Don’t Speculate About Whether You’re Eligible: Don’t squander your answers. You’ll get in trouble with the officer if you are unsure of your eligibility.
- Don’t Use Others’ Legal Predictions: You won’t get any of these statements (“My lawyer said this would be OK” or “My friend told me this is okay”). Use your knowledge and experiences.
- Not To Say Anything Negative About Your Immigrant Past: Do not say anything that might constitute self-incrimination or lack of confidence in the ability to abide by U.S. law.
- Do Not Interject Personal Issues: It is about the questions and the application. Avoid discussing personal issues outside of the interview.
- Don’t Fight or Get Frustrated: If you don’t understand a question or feel you were misunderstood, just stay cool and clarify what you’re saying without getting defensive.
What Happens After the Green Card Interview?
The USCIS officer will either accept your green card application after your interview, ask for additional documentation, or reject your application. You should have your answer by the end of the interview or a couple of weeks later.
- If Needed to Submit Additional Documents: If USCIS needs additional information, they issue an RFE. You will have to send the required documents on time.
- If Your Application Is Approved: After the USCIS processes your application, you will receive your green card via mail, and you will be considered a permanent resident.
A green card interview is the first big step in a journey to be an immigrant and being prepared will ensure a smooth transition. If you don’t speak English, you can have an interpreter with you for the interview. Be sure to have an interpreter who speaks English as well as your native language, and keep in mind they need to swear an oath to translate properly.
The Role of an Interpreter in the Green Card Interview
Navigating the green card interview process can be challenging, especially for applicants who are not fluent in English. An interpreter plays a crucial role in ensuring effective communication between the applicant and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer. Understanding when and how to use an interpreter, as well as the associated processes and requirements, is essential for a successful interview.
When and How Green Card Holders Can Use an Interpreter
Green card applicants who are not comfortable communicating in English have the right to bring an interpreter to their interview. This is particularly important in ensuring that the applicant fully understands the questions posed by the USCIS officer and can respond accurately.
- Eligibility: The interpreter must be fluent in both English and the applicant’s native language. They should be able to convey messages accurately without adding personal opinions or commentary.
- Types of Interpreters: While professional interpreters are ideal, USCIS allows friends or family members to serve as interpreters, provided they meet the fluency requirements. However, certain individuals, such as minors under 18, witnesses in the case, or attorneys representing the applicant, cannot serve as interpreters.
The Process of Requesting an Interpreter
To ensure that an interpreter is available for your green card interview, follow these steps:
- Advance Planning: It is advisable to identify and secure an interpreter well before your interview date. This allows time for practice sessions to familiarize them with your application and any specific vocabulary.
- Submitting Form G-1256: Both you and your interpreter must complete and submit Form G-1256, Declaration for Interpreted USCIS Interview, at the beginning of your interview. This form confirms that the interpreter understands their responsibilities and agrees to interpret accurately.
- Timing of Submission: Submit Form G-1256 on the day of your interview. Ensure that both you and your interpreter sign it before the interview begins.
Are There Any Restrictions on Using an Interpreter?
While interpreters are generally permitted, there are specific restrictions to consider:
- Disqualification Criteria: USCIS officers have the authority to disqualify interpreters if they suspect that the interpreter is not sufficiently fluent or if their presence compromises the integrity of the interview.
- Acceptable Interpreters: Acceptable interpreters must be over 18 years old and fluent in both languages involved. They should also present a valid government-issued ID at the interview.
- Professionalism: Interpreters should dress appropriately and behave respectfully throughout the process, reflecting positively on the applicant.
The Impact of Not Being Able to Speak English on the Green Card Process
Not speaking English can create challenges during the green card interview and application process:
- Communication Barriers: Difficulty in understanding questions or expressing oneself can lead to misunderstandings during interviews, potentially affecting the outcome of the application.
- Mitigation Strategies:
- Practice with Your Interpreter: Conduct mock interviews with your interpreter to build comfort with potential questions.
- Keep Answers Concise: Provide clear and concise answers during the interview to avoid confusion for both you and your interpreter.
Language Requirements for U.S. Citizenship vs. Green Card
There are distinct differences between language requirements for green card applicants and those seeking U.S. citizenship:
- Green Card Interviews: Applicants do not need to demonstrate English proficiency during green card interviews unless specifically required by their case type (e.g., marriage-based cases). Instead, they can use an interpreter if needed.
- U.S. Citizenship Requirements: In contrast, applicants for U.S. citizenship must pass English language and civics tests unless they qualify for a waiver due to age or disability. The civics test assesses knowledge of U.S. history and government, while English proficiency is evaluated through reading, writing, and speaking components.
Whether you are in doubt or need some assistance in preparing for your green card interview, Law and Visas will be at your side all the way. Let us guide you through it, safely and comfortably.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the U.S. straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for an O-1 Visa or an H-1B Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit the United States. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you
