Scheduling an Adjustment of Status Interview: Everything You Need to Know

For immigrants living in the United States, scheduling an adjustment of status interview is a crucial step towards obtaining their green card. An adjustment of status interview is an in-person meeting with a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer where they review your application, verify your documents, and determine whether you meet the requirements for permanent residency. The interview is a critical part of the process, as it provides the USCIS officer with an opportunity to evaluate your qualifications and assess your eligibility for a green card.

In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the adjustment of status interview process, the documents you’ll need to bring, and how to prepare for the interview to ensure you make the best impression possible.

What is an Adjustment of Status Interview?

An adjustment of status interview is a mandatory step in the process of becoming a permanent resident in the United States. It is generally required for applicants who are seeking to adjust their status from a non-immigrant status to an immigrant status.

The purpose of the interview is to review the application, verify the applicant’s eligibility, and confirm that all the information provided by the applicant is accurate. During the interview, the USCIS officer will ask questions related to the applicant’s background, immigration history, and any criminal history. They will also ask questions about the supporting documents to ensure that they are legitimate and accurate.

In most cases, the USCIS officer will conduct the interview at a local USCIS field office. You may be able to schedule an adjustment of status interview online or by mail, depending on the type of application you filed.

The Adjustment of Status Interview Process

Once the USCIS receives your application, they will schedule an adjustment of status interview for you. The interview is usually scheduled within three to six months of the application’s filing date.

Before the interview, you will receive a notice from the USCIS providing you with the time, date, and location of your appointment. In nearly all cases, you will be required to attend the appointment in person.

During the interview, the USCIS officer will verify your identity and review your application and documents. They will then ask questions to confirm that the information on your application is correct. The USCIS officer may also ask additional questions to verify your eligibility.

After the interview, the USCIS officer will make a decision on your application based on the information you provided, your eligibility, and any supporting documents.

What to Bring to Your Adjustment of Status Interview

It is essential to bring all the required documents to the adjustment of status interview to avoid delays in processing your application. Below are the items you must bring:

1. The interview appointment notice: This is the letter you received from the USCIS that provides the details of the interview, such as location, time, date, among others.

2. Valid identification documents: You must present your valid passport or other types of government-issued identification that includes your photo, name, and birth date.

3. Supporting documents: Supporting documents are those that prove you are eligible for a green card, such as marriage or divorce certificates, birth certificates, police certificates, and any other relevant documents.

4. Medical examination report: You must bring your medical examination report if you underwent a medical examination as part of your application requirements.

5. Original I-797: This is the document you received from the USCIS that confirms the receipt of your application. Make sure you carry the original copy since the USCIS officer may want to verify it.

6. Employment authorization document (EAD): If you have an EAD, you must bring it along with you for the interview.

7. Second Notice of Action (NOA2): This is the document you received from the USCIS informing you of approval of your green card application.

Preparing for Your Adjustment of Status Interview

Preparing for an adjustment of status interview can be nerve-wracking, but it is essential to make sure you have everything you need to succeed. Here are the things you should do before the interview:

1. Review your application: Go over your application before the interview and make sure that the information is correct and up-to-date.

2. Gather all the required documents: As previously mentioned, make sure you have all the necessary documents with you.

3. Dress appropriately: While there is no official dress code for the interview, it is recommended that you dress formally to make a good impression.

4. Practice answering interview questions: You can never predict the exact questions you will be asked during the interview. However, it is advisable to practice answering typical adjustment of status interview questions to ease your nerves.

5. Arrive at the interview early: Being on time is critical, but it is better to arrive early than late. Arriving early gives you ample time to check-in and prepare yourself.

Conclusion

In conclusion, obtaining a green card is a pivotal moment for immigrants residing in the United States. Scheduling an adjustment of status interview can be nerve-wracking, but with proper preparation, it’s easy to successfully complete the process. It is crucial to gather all the required documents, practice answering possible questions, and be on time for the interview to succeed. Ultimately, the adjustment of status interview is the final step to becoming a permanent resident in the United States. As with any significant milestone, the process can be stressful, but with determination, it can be a straightforward and life-changing experience.

An adjustment of status interview is an interview with the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) office. An adjustment of status interview is to ensure that all the filed documentations and the information completed in the application is correct and true. The adjustment of status interview will allow an individual to be approved by the USCIS and ensure that they may begin legally working.

A person cannot schedule an adjustment of status interview. Not all individuals who apply for an adjustment of status will be called in for an interview. If an individual does get called in for an interview it is important to contact a knowledgeable legal professional who can help an individual successfully get through the interview. A person will be required to bring documentation of their identity, current visa, and any other documents that further express the need for an adjustment status.