Five Tips When Preparing for Your Immigration Interview

Interviews are an important part of the United States immigration system. These interviews are usually required for most green card and naturalization applications, as well as for many non-immigrant visas. Immigration interviews can be very intimidating, and preparing for one can seem overwhelming. After all, there is a lot on the line and the outcome you receive will largely depend on how your interview goes. Below, our Atlanta citizenship lawyer outlines some tips that can help when you are preparing for your interview.

Arrive on Time 

Arriving on time may seem like the simplest, and most obvious, tip but it is also one of the most important. If you arrive late to the interview, the officer can deny your case before you have the opportunity to prove that you qualify. Do not only arrive on time, but make sure you arrive early. This will ensure that you have lots of time to prepare and that traffic and other factors not within your control do not prevent you from showing up on time. Waiting at the interview for a few minutes is far better than rushing in and seeming unprepared.

Dress Appropriately 

You certainly do not have to wear a gown or tuxedo to the interview, but it is important that you dress appropriately. The interview is a legal and formal process and dressing appropriately will show that you take it seriously and that you respect the process. Choose clothing that is fairly conservative and similar to what you would wear to a job interview.

Be Honest 

Honestly is critical during your immigration interview. If you are unsure of an answer to a question, do not guess and never make up an answer. It is better to simply state that you are unsure of the answer. Also do not answer in an attempt to simply give the officer a good impression of you. If you do not understand what the officer is asking, simply ask them for more clarity. During your interview, honesty really is the best policy.

Bring the Appropriate Documents 

You will need to bring many original documents to give to the officer during your interview. A lawyer can advise on what you need for your specific case but documentation typically includes your passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate, evidence of support, and more. Take copies of these documents before you attend the interview in case the officer keeps the originals. Having the proper documentation will show that you are well prepared.

Be Yourself 

As stressful as an immigration interview is, it is still critical to be yourself. Take the opportunity to show your personality. If you are being honest, the officer will easily see who you are, which can help your case.

Call Our Citizenship Lawyer in Atlanta Today 

If you are applying for citizenship or to adjust your status, the interview is a very important part of the process. Our Atlanta citizenship lawyer can help ensure you are prepared. For a consultation to discuss your needs and case, please call Shirazi Immigration Law, Inc. today at 404-523-3611.

Source:

uscis.gov/citizenship/learn-about-citizenship/the-naturalization-interview-and-test