How to Prepare for your USCIS Interview
How to Prepare for Your USCIS Interview
The USCIS interview is one of the most important steps in your immigration journey — whether you’re applying for a Green Card, U.S. citizenship, or Adjustment of Status.
This meeting allows a USCIS officer to verify your application, confirm your eligibility, and clarify any details.
It’s natural to feel nervous, but with the right preparation, you can walk in confident and ready. At 123 Citizen, we guide you through this process step-by-step so you know exactly what to expect.
1. Review Your Application
It’s essential to be familiar with the information you’ve provided in your application. Whether you're applying for a green card, citizenship, or another status adjustment, the interviewer will go over your forms in detail. Make sure that everything you submitted is accurate, and be prepared to explain any discrepancies or updates, if necessary.
Tips:
Print a copy of your entire application to review beforehand.
Refresh your memory on important dates, names, and addresses.
If anything has changed since you filed (address, job, marital status), be ready to explain and provide proof.
📚 USCIS reminds applicants that accuracy and consistency in your answers are key to avoiding delays.
2. Organize Your Documents
The USCIS will often request you to bring specific documents to your interview. These can include proof of identity, financial information, and any other supporting materials relevant to your case. Organize your documents in a way that makes them easy to access during the interview. Having everything in order will demonstrate that you are prepared and serious about your case.
Commonly Requested Documents:
Passport or valid ID
Birth certificate
Proof of legal entry into the U.S. (such as a visa or I-94)
Marriage certificates (if applicable)
Tax returns and financial records
Employment verification
Copies of your original application and supporting documents
💡 Tip: Place your documents in labeled folders so you can find them quickly during the interview.
3. Practice Common Interview Questions
During the USCIS interview, you will be asked a variety of questions, depending on the type of application you’ve submitted. For example, green card applicants might be asked about their relationship with their spouse, while citizenship applicants could be asked questions about U.S. history and civics.
Here are some common questions you may be asked:
Green Card through marriage: How did you meet your spouse? When was your last trip together?
Citizenship: What is the U.S. Constitution? Who was the first President of the United States?
Employment-based: Can you explain your current role and job duties?
123 Citizen offers tools to help you practice for these types of questions, making sure you're ready to respond with confidence.
4. Dress Professionally
While there’s no official USCIS dress code, your appearance should show respect for the process.
Aim for business casual: neat, clean, and modest clothing. This helps make a positive first impression.
5. Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early. This gives you time to:
Go through security
Check in at the front desk
Gather your thoughts before the interview begins
Being punctual shows respect for the officer’s time and reduces your own stress.
6. Be Honest and Stay Calm
Answer every question truthfully. If you don’t know the answer to a question, it’s okay to say that you don’t know or to ask for clarification. Trying to guess or provide incorrect information can raise red flags.
Nervousness is natural, but staying calm and composed will help you stay focused. The interview is a chance to clarify any questions the officer might have, not an interrogation. Remember, you’ve already completed the bulk of the process by submitting your application, and the interview is just the next step.
7. Bring an Interpreter if Necessary
If you’re not confident in English, you may bring an interpreter.
Make sure USCIS knows in advance and that your interpreter is fluent in both English and your native language.
8. Know What Happens After the Interview
After your interview, the officer may:
Approve your application on the spot
Request additional evidence (RFE)
Issue a decision later
If more documents are requested, send them as soon as possible to avoid delays.
How 123 Citizen Can Help You Prepare
At 123 Citizen, we simplify the USCIS interview preparation process by offering:
Step-by-step guidance: We help you understand which documents are needed, what questions you might be asked, and how to prepare effectively.
Practice tools: Our tools allow you to practice answering interview questions and boost your confidence.
Expert support: Get personalized assistance from immigration experts who can answer your questions and guide you through the interview process.
Let 123 Citizen take the stress out of preparing for your USCIS interview. With our easy-to-use platform and expert assistance, you’ll feel confident and ready to succeed.
Ready to Get Started?
Let 123 Citizen guide you through your USCIS interview preparation — whether you’re applying for a Green Card, renewing your status, or becoming a U.S. citizen.
📲 Download your free checklist at 123citizen.com
💬 Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — hablamos español.
