If you applied for citizenship in the United States, you may have to go through an initial interview. Being called for an interview by the U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is usually the last step in the citizenship process.
There is nothing to fear about an initial interview. Interviews are a normal part of the citizenship process and it allows for the USCIS to confirm the information you and your sponsor have provided on the application.
If you are preparing to go through an initial interview as part of the visa process, you should contact an experienced immigration attorney at The Gonzalez Law Group. Our attorneys will ensure that you are properly prepared for the initial interview.
Call The Gonzalez Law Group today at (832) 530-4070 or submit your information in our online form for a free case evaluation. We assist clients in the greater Harris County area including Pearland, Baytown, Seabrook, La Porte, Pasadena, Galena Park, Friendswood and numerous others.
Overview of Initial Interview in Houston, TX
What to Bring to an Initial Interview
The purpose of an initial interview is to allow for the interviewing officer to determine if there is anything in your personal background that would prevent you from becoming a naturalized U.S citizen. In order to avoid delays or denial of a visa, it is important that you bring all the required documents to the initial interview. Along with what the USCIS interview notice requires you to bring, be sure to bring the following:
- A completed copy of your visa petition and adjustment of status application. The officer will be referring to these documents, so it will make it easier for you to follow along. Plus, if something happens to be missing from your file, your copies will come in handy.
- Other travel documents such as an advance parole permit if you traveled while awaiting the interview
- A passport that contains the nonimmigrant you used to enter the United States
- Original copies of any documents you submitted to the USCIS. This can include birth and marriage certificates.
- The doctor’s report from the required medical exam
- If applying for employment, an up-to-date letter from your employer
- If applying based on marriage, copies of documents such as a mortgage, joint bank account or credit card statements.
The interviewing officer will need to be notified of any life changes since the application for citizenship was submitted, so bring any documentation that supports these changes. This can include birth certificates of any recently born children or evidence of new employment. If you plan to have your attorney accompany you to the interview, they will need to file Form G-28 Notice of Appearance.
Dos and Don’ts
Being prepared for the immigration interview will make the process as pleasant as possible. It is important to keep in mind that the interviewer’s job is to determine if there is anything that prevents you from obtaining the immigration status you desire and that the officer does not have anything against you personally. Listed below are some of the dos and don’ts of an initial interview.
Do bring copies of all the necessary forms
Do hire an attorney to accompany you
Do bring an interpreter if you do not understand English
Do show up on time
Do dress similar to a job interview
Do be prepared to answer any personal questions
Do remain calm
Don’t lie to the USCIS officer
Don’t argue with your spouse or other family members during the interview
Don’t argue with the USCIS officer
Don’t lose patience with the USCIS officer
Don’t joke around with the USIC officer
If everything goes well during the initial interview, you will be approved for the required immigration status and your passport will be stamped. If the officer doesn’t approve your case that day, they will usually ask for additional documents to resolve the issue.
Additional Initial Interview Resources in Houston, TX
Naturalization: What to Expect– The USCIS features a guide to U.S Naturalization. The guide features a section over the initial interview that features information on the steps of the process and as well as what to bring.
Applicant Interview– Follow this link to the Department of State webpage over the immigration interview. The page provides information on topics such as who must attend the interview, what happens if you fail to appear and what to do if you need to change the date of the interview.
Lawyer for Initial Interview in Houston, TX
If you are preparing to go through an initial interview it is best to have an experienced immigration attorney accompany you. The Gonzalez Law Group will fight to ensure that you and your loved ones receive your desired visa status.
Call The Gonzalez Law Group today at (832) 530-4070 or submit your information in our online form for a free case consultation. We help clients with immigration issues in communities throughout the greater Harris County area including Pearland, Baytown, Seabrook, La Porte, Pasadena, Galena Park, Friendswood and numerous others.
