I-485 Interviews
An I-485 interview is probably the last step you’ll need to take in the green card application process – and for many people, the interview results in a decision from U.S. Customs and Immigration Services. Here’s what you need to know about the I-485 Adjustment of Status interview.
What Happens During a Green Card Interview?
During your I-485 interview, the officer in charge of interviewing you will ask you questions about your application. If he or she needs clarification on something, you’ll be given a chance to explain. If you’re adjusting your status based on a marriage, your interviewer may ask you questions about the history of your relationship, what you do together as a married couple, and your future plans together. All these questions are USCIS’s way of determining whether you have a bona fide marriage.
Related: Adjustment of status
What Should I Bring to My I-485 Interview?
You should bring a complete copy of your adjustment of status application, including your Form I-485 and other forms you’ve submitted, to your green card interview. You should also bring:
- Government-issued ID
- Your appointment notice
- Originals of any supporting documents you submitted to USCIS
- Your passport and any travel documents you have (such as an advance parole document)
- A letter from your employer if you’re applying based on employment
- Your marriage certificate and evidence of your bona fide marriage (such as a lease or mortgage, joint bank account information, kids’ birth certificates and other types of evidence) if you’re applying based on marriage
Related: Family-sponsored visas
How Long Does an I-485 Interview Take?
Usually, an I-485 interview takes less than 30 minutes to complete.
What Questions Do They Ask in a Green Card Interview?
Many of the questions your interviewer will ask will be about your I-485 application, such as whether you’ve had any major changes since you filled it out. If you’re applying based on marriage, the interviewer will ask questions to establish that you have a bona fide relationship with your spouse. He or she might ask things like:
- How, when and where did you meet?
- Where did your spouse work when you met?
- How much money does your spouse make?
- When did you decide to marry, and how did you or your spouse propose?
- Did you go on a honeymoon? Where?
- How many bedrooms are in your home, and who sleeps in each?
- What size bed do you and your spouse have
- Who pays for your housing, and how?
The USCIS officer in charge of your case can ask a wide variety of questions to see if you and your spouse have a genuine relationship.
Do You Need to Talk to an Immigration Attorney About an I-485 Interview?
Many people choose to work with an immigration attorney during the entire green card application process. If you’re applying for a green card, we may be able to help you – whether you’re only considering filing or you’ve already started the process. Call us at 414-383-6700 to schedule a consultation with a Milwaukee immigration attorney today.