The marriage-based green card interview is one of the most important steps in the marriage-based green card process. The interview focuses on confirming the legitimacy of your marriage and assessing whether your relationship meets the requirements set by U.S. immigration law.
During the interview, you and your spouse will answer personal and relationship-based questions and show the interviewer supporting documents demonstrating that your marriage is authentic. Understanding what to expect—and how to prepare—can help reduce stress and improve your chances of success.
At EMP Law, we help couples navigate the complex immigration system with confidence. Our firm brings years of experience advocating for individuals facing challenges from powerful systems, including the U.S. government. Our immigration attorneys dedicate themselves to helping protect your rights.
When the Interview Occurs During the Marriage-Based Green Card Process
Applying for a marriage-based green card involves:
- The U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) spouse submits the Petition for Alien Relative to request that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) determine whether they are eligible to sponsor their spouse for a green card;
- Applying for a green card from USCIS or a consulate abroad;
- Attending a Biometrics Appointment, where USCIS collects fingerprints, photographs, and a signature to conduct background checks;
- Receiving an Interview Notice with the interview date, time, and location;
- Attending the interview; and
- Receiving a decision.
The green card marriage interview gives the interviewer the opportunity to verify that the marriage is authentic, meaning that the couple did not marry for the purpose of getting a green card.
How to Prepare for the Green Card Marriage Interview
Thorough preparation can help you avoid delays and present your relationship clearly and confidently. First, ensure you have your documents organized, including:
- Identification, such as passports, driver’s licenses, and work permits;
- Immigration forms that you have submitted and all supporting documents you included, like your marriage certificate and other documentation indicating you and your spouse live as a married couple, like birth certificates and joint leases; and
- Documents you have received from the government related to the case, like receipt notices.
Organize documents in a clear format, grouped by type, so you can easily find and access them.
Marriage-Based Green Card Interview Questions
The USCIS officer may ask you and your spouse questions separately or jointly to determine whether your answers align. Practicing potential marriage-based green card interview questions ahead of time can help you get on the same page and iron out details.
Common marriage green card interview questions include, for example:
- Where did you meet, and how did your relationship begin?
- How long did you date before getting married?
- Who proposed, and how did it happen?
- Where was your wedding, and who attended?
- Do you have any children together or from previous relationships?
- What side of the bed does your spouse sleep on?
- What is your spouse’s favorite meal, restaurant, or TV show?
- How do you spend weekends or holidays?
- How do you divide household responsibilities?
Practicing these questions together can help you anticipate and correct any inconsistencies your responses might raise for your interviewer.
Know What to Expect on Interview Day
On the day of your interview, arrive early, bring all your documents, and dress neatly. The interview occurs in a professional setting, often in an office environment with a security check at the entrance, similar to airport screening. However, procedures can vary depending on whether the interview is held at a USCIS field office or a U.S. consulate abroad. Always review the specific instructions listed on your appointment notice.
When answering questions:
- Be honest and calm;
- Avoid guessing—say you do not know if unsure; and
- Maintain a respectful tone, even if the questions feel intrusive.
Saying “I don’t know” is acceptable and, depending on the circumstances, may be better than providing a guess that contradicts another detail in your case. The officer is looking for consistency and credibility more than perfection.
What Happens After the Interview
The interview may result in:
- Approval on the spot if the officer is satisfied that your interview and documentation prove the noncitizen spouse is eligible for a green card;
- A follow-up request for Evidence (RFE) from USCIS if it needs more documents before it can make a decision;
- A second interview, sometimes referred to as a Stokes interview, if the interviewer suspects fraud or finds inconsistencies and wants to interview the spouses separately; or
- A denial if USCIS determines that the noncitizen is not eligible for a green card.
Consult an Immigration attorney to assist you before any part of the process becomes confusing or difficult to manage.
Speak with an Immigration Attorney at EMP Law
The marriage-based green card interview is a defining moment in your immigration journey. With the right preparation and professional support, you can approach it confidently. At EMP Law, we proudly guide individuals and families through the interview process and beyond.
If you need help understanding your options, gathering the right documents, or responding to a notice from USCIS, contact us today.
Michael provides compassionate, diligent, and creative legal services that are tailored to meet each client’s specific needs. His experience relating to clients from diverse backgrounds makes him well suited for representing his clients across a broad range of legal areas. He practices in the areas of employment law and family law, and is experienced in criminal law.
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