For many applicants, the green card interview at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) represents the final hurdle in the long and often stressful journey toward permanent residency. While the idea of sitting across from a government officer can sound intimidating, the truth is that the interview is usually a straightforward formality. If you prepare properly, arrive on time, and remain calm, you are likely to walk away with a strong sense of relief, knowing you are one step closer to becoming a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

This article provides a detailed, step-by-step overview of what to expect at your green card interview. From what to wear, how early to arrive, what happens during security and biometrics, and what kinds of questions USCIS officers ask, this guide will help you walk into your interview with confidence.

Preparing for Your Green Card Interview

Dress and Appearance

First impressions matter. While USCIS officers are trained to focus on the substance of your case rather than your clothing, it is advisable to present yourself professionally. Dressing in Western business-casual attire typical of the United States is generally best. Avoid flashy or overly casual clothing, and be sure to arrive well-groomed. Think of this as a professional meeting: the goal is to demonstrate respect for the process and put yourself at ease.

Reduce Stress Beforehand

The calmer you feel, the smoother the process will be. If possible, visit the USCIS field office in advance so you know the route, traffic patterns, parking options, and security procedures. Being familiar with your surroundings reduces anxiety and helps you focus on the interview itself rather than logistical concerns.

Arrival and Security Procedures

Timing Your Arrival

Your interview notice will specify a scheduled time. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early. This buffer accounts for traffic delays, parking challenges, and time needed for security screening. Keep in mind that the time on your notice is not when your interview will begin—it is when you must be checked in at the office.

Security Screening

About 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment, security officers at the building entrance will allow you inside. Expect an airport-style security process: officers will ask whether you are carrying prohibited items such as weapons, mace, or other restricted objects. You will need to remove your belt and shoes, walk through a metal detector, and place your bags through an x-ray scanner. You may bring personal items such as a laptop bag, but keep belongings reasonable to avoid unnecessary delays. Unlike the airport, there is no TSA PreCheck option—everyone goes through the same screening.

Check-In and Biometrics

After security, you will proceed to the check-in desk. There, you must present your interview notice. Depending on the office, you may receive a ticket number, have a number written on your notice, or see your surname displayed on a monitor in the waiting room.

Shortly afterward, your name or number will be called for a brief biometrics verification. This step involves taking your photograph and fingerprints to confirm your identity. The biometrics process usually takes just a few minutes, after which you will return to the waiting room until the interviewing officer is ready.

Waiting for the Interview

The waiting time for your interview can vary significantly. Some applicants are called within five minutes; others may wait two hours. Do not read too much into the delay—USCIS schedules are unpredictable and the timing of your interview has no bearing on the outcome of your case.

During this time, stay calm. Remind yourself that the interview is a routine step. USCIS is not looking to deny applicants without cause. If the agency had serious concerns about your eligibility, you likely would have received a Request for Evidence (RFE) or a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID) before being scheduled for an interview.

The Green Card Interview Itself

Meeting the Officer

When it is your turn, an immigration officer will come to the waiting area, call your name, and escort you to their office. Officers generally greet applicants with courtesy, often offering a handshake. The office itself is simple—typically a desk, a computer, and chairs. Wait for the officer to invite you to sit down before taking your seat.

Swearing In

The officer will begin by reviewing your interview notice and a valid government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or other acceptable identification). Because your interview is conducted under oath, you will be asked to swear or affirm that your answers will be truthful.

Review of Form I-485

Most of the interview will involve the officer reviewing your Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Expect questions such as:

• Full legal name, date of birth, and country of birth
• Current and previous residential addresses
• Current employer and position details
• Past employment history
• Immigration history, including prior visas or entries into the U.S.
• Questions related to admissibility, such as:
  • Have you ever worked without authorization?
  • Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a crime?
  • Have you ever been involved in organizations such as the Communist Party?

Approximately 95% of the questions will come directly from the I-485 form. Since you have already completed this application, your answers should be familiar. Remember: the officer’s primary goal is to ensure that the individual sitting in front of them is the same person described in the forms and supporting documents.

 

Family Members at the Interview

If your green card application includes your spouse and/or children, they must attend the interview with you. Even if your spouse or child is not applying as part of your case, they are welcome to accompany you for support. If you bring young children, consider bringing quiet activities, such as a coloring book, to help them stay occupied during the proceedings.

What Happens After the Interview

Likely Outcomes

In the vast and overwhelming majority of cases, USCIS does not grant approval on the spot. Instead, the officer may inform you that your case is “recommended for approval.” This means that you have successfully completed the interview and no major issues were identified, but the agency must complete final clerical checks before issuing your green card.

Processing times vary. Some applicants receive a decision within one week, while others may wait several weeks. Once your application is approved, your online case status will update to “Card Is Being Produced.” This status indicates that USCIS has approved your I-485, ordered production of your secure green card, and is preparing it for mailing.

Congratulations—you are officially a lawful permanent resident!

If Problems Arise

In the rare event that issues come up during your interview, USCIS will not deny your application on the spot. Instead, they may issue one of the following:

• Request for Evidence (RFE): You will have 87 days to provide the requested documentation.
• Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID): You will have 30 days to respond with additional evidence or arguments.

These situations are uncommon and typically arise only when there are inconsistencies in your file, missing documents, or complex immigration histories. With proper legal guidance, many applicants can overcome these challenges.

Key Takeaways for a Successful Green Card Interview

1. Arrive Early and Prepared: Aim for 30 minutes before your scheduled time to reduce stress.
2. Dress Professionally: Western business-casual attire is appropriate.
3. Bring the Right Documents: Interview notice, government ID, and any other requested materials.
4. Stay Calm: Delays and long waits are normal.
5. Expect Familiar Questions: Most questions will come directly from your I-485.
6. Understand the Likely Outcome: You will probably be recommended for approval, with final confirmation arriving later.

Final Thoughts

The green card interview is an important milestone on the path to U.S. permanent residency, but it should not be a source of overwhelming fear. With preparation, professionalism, and patience, most applicants find the process to be relatively straightforward. USCIS officers are not trying to trap you; they are simply verifying your identity and confirming the information already on record.

By understanding the steps from arrival and security to biometrics, questioning, and post-interview outcomes, you can approach the day with confidence. Before long, you may see the exciting notification that your “Card Is Being Produced,” marking the successful conclusion of your adjustment of status journey!

For our clients, we conduct a pre-interview call to put them at ease, detailing what to expect on the day, conduct a mock interview, and answer any lingering questions before the important day. 

If you are considering filing your I-485 for adjustment of status, or if you have received your interview notice and are looking for a detailed conversation on the final steps in the process, I invite you to schedule a consultation here. 

By Ryan A. Wilck, Partner and Attorney at Law

Ryan Wilck is a Managing Partner and attorney at Reddy & Neumann, P.C. with over a decade of US immigration law experience, enthusiastic and proactive in his approach assisting clients and their employees through the various phases of the permanent residency a/k/a Green Card process. “Concilio et labore” is not only the motto of Ryan’s favorite sports club but is also his life’s motto; all things come through wisdom and effort. Ryan is passionate about gaining the trust of his clients by utilizing a relentless and detail-oriented approach to understand their specific goals and concerns, hoping to instill a sense of confidence and stability. Whatever your immigration problem or interest, he and his team will find a solution, through wisdom and effort. Reddy & Neumann, P.C. has been serving the business community for over 20 years and is Houston’s largest immigration law firm focused solely on employment-based business immigration. We work with employers and their employees, helping navigate the complex immigration process efficiently and cost-effective. 

 We are committed to assisting our clients with navigating the complex PERM Labor Certification (ETA 9089 and other challenging immigration matters as an accomplished immigration law firm in Houston, Texas. Our team is here to offer the direction and support you require, whether you’re a company trying to hire top talent or a foreign worker seeking to develop a career in the United States. To find out more about how we can help you with your immigration issues, get in touch with us right away.