Green Card Interviews:
Be Confident; Be Prepared; Be Approved.
Date of Information: 06/24/2025
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Why Does USCIS Conduct Green Card Interviews?
The purpose of the green card interview is to verify the accuracy and integrity of your application. A USCIS officer will review your case to ensure that:
You are eligible for permanent residence.
Your documents are authentic and complete.
There are no security, immigration, or fraud concerns.
This interview is a key step in confirming that your case qualifies under U.S. immigration law.
Note: If your green card application is based on marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, you may be required to complete a more detailed process, known as a Stokes Interview, where USCIS evaluates the authenticity of your marital relationship to rule out marriage fraud. Learn more about Stokes Interviews here.
What Happens During the Green Card Interview?
Here’s what you can expect:
You will be interviewed by a USCIS officer at a local USCIS field office.
The officer will place you under oath and verify your identity and eligibility.
They may ask questions about your background, travel, immigration history, and your relationship to the petitioner.
They will review your original documents and may request clarifications.
Most interviews last between 20 and 45 minutes, though times vary based on case complexity.
Again, if your case is marriage-based, be aware that your interview may be more extensive and include separate questioning and detailed personal questions about your relationship. Learn more about Stokes Interviews here.
Sample Questions You Might Be Asked
Here are common topics and questions from general green card interviews:
Identity & Immigration Status:
What is your full legal name and date of birth?
When did you enter the United States?
Have you ever worked without authorization?
Have you ever violated immigration laws?
Eligibility & Background:
Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a crime?
Are you a member of any organizations?
Do you owe taxes or have unpaid child support?
Relationship to Petitioner (if applicable):
What is your relationship to the petitioner?
How did you meet them?
Why are they sponsoring you?
Again, for marriage-based applicants, officers may ask intimate and detailed questions about your daily life together. Learn more about Stokes Interviews here.
What to Bring to Your USCIS Interview
Make sure to bring:
Government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license)
Interview notice (Form I-797C)
Your original birth certificate
Current and prior immigration documents (I-94, EAD, etc.)
Supporting evidence of eligibility (e.g., work records, educational certificates)
Any updated or missing documents USCIS requested in the RFE (Request for Evidence)
Certified copies of any court records if you’ve had legal issues
There are additional items for marriage-based cases. Learn more about Stokes Interviews here.
Preparation Tips for Interview Day
Things to do:
Review your application and documents to ensure consistency.
Practice answering questions aloud, especially if English is not your first language.
Organize your documents in clearly labeled folders.
Dress appropriately (business casual recommended).
Arrive 15–30 minutes early to account for security screening.
Stay calm and honest. If you don’t know the answer, it’s okay to say so.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Inconsistent answers or nervous responses
Bringing copies instead of originals
Showing up late or underdressed
Arguing with or disrespecting the officer
Want help preparing for your Green Card interview?
Whether you're facing a standard interview or a more intensive Stokes Interview, we offer expert guidance, document review, and personalized coaching to help you feel fully prepared.
Other Helpful Resources:
See Also:
CIL Guide to Family-Based Immigration Immigration
CIL Guide to Sponsoring Family-Based Immigrants
