Hi, Rahim Dhanani with The Dhanani Law Firm. Today, we’re going to be talking about the USCIS adjustment of status interview for married couples. We’ll discuss what goes on at the interview and what to expect.
Receiving the Interview Notice
You’ll receive a notice from the immigration service that gives you a day and time to show up for the interview. You need to show up with your spouse, and the notice includes a checklist of documents to bring. It’s a great checklist to ensure you have everything needed for the interview. Make sure you review it before showing up.
Arrival and Security
On the day of the interview, I recommend arriving about 30 minutes early because the line can be unpredictable. You could be through the line in five minutes, or it might take longer. You don’t want to be late for your marriage adjustment interview.
Entering the Waiting Room
Once you get through security, give your notice to the immigration officer at the triage desk. The officer will give you a number and direct you to a waiting room. You could be sitting there for five minutes or a couple of hours, depending on the day’s circumstances and the officer’s schedule.
The Interview Process
When the officer calls you into their office, present your identification documents, like a passport, driver’s license, or government ID. You’ll take a quick oath, verifying that what you’re saying is true and that you won’t mislead the officer. The officer will then review your paperwork, which may involve rifling through a paper file or entering information into a computer.
Biographic Information Verification
The officer will verify biographic information such as your name, date of birth, social security number, and address. They’ll also review the I-485 adjustment of status application, asking questions about any past crimes or immigration violations.
Spouse Verification
The officer may ask your spouse questions about you to verify the information. Discrepancies, like incorrect marriage dates, can raise concerns for the officer.
Presenting Additional Documents
If you didn’t submit many documents with your initial application, this is your opportunity to present them. This includes proof of joint living arrangements, financial documents, and a sealed medical exam. Ensure the medical exam is in a sealed envelope, as the officer won’t accept it if it’s unsealed.
Conclusion of the Interview
The officer may tell you if the application is approved right there, or you might receive a notice in the mail. Either way, it’s fine. Typically, you’ll get the green card in the mail in about two weeks. If it takes longer than two or three weeks, check with the immigration service to ensure everything is in order.
Separate Interviews
If the officer separates you and your spouse for questioning, they may doubt your marriage’s authenticity. Consistent answers are crucial. If issues arise, consult an attorney.
Final Thoughts
That’s generally what happens at the marriage adjustment interviews. If you have additional questions, feel free to reach out to us. I hope this was helpful. Take care.
