What to Expect After A Marriage Based Green Card Interview

What To Expect After the Green Card Interview?

There are 5 possible results after a Green Card interview: Approval; Denial; RFE; Additional Review; Second Interview.

Approval is, of course, the desired outcome of the Green Card interview and is hopefully the outcome you receive.

Denial, on the other hand, is the worst outcome but it is usually the last option. Officers are more willing than not to approve your case. However, if there are signs of clear ineligibility, your case can be denied. Some factors that may hurt the green card applicant’s eligibility include a lack of proper documentation, issues relating to criminal activity or immigration fraud. Again, it is likely that the officer will grant you the opportunity to solve these issues before denying your case.

One opportunity to solve any issue is a Request for Evidence (RFE). An RFE shouldn’t necessarily scare you as long as you can provide the documentary evidence that is requested. Often the RFE will be about the authenticity of your relationship. Such documentation may include additional bank statements, photos, or letters from family and friends.

In some cases, the officer may need more time in order to arrive at a final decision, so may state that he or she requires time for an additional review of your application. This does not automatically mean that the officer intends to deny your application.

In the case that certain information could not be ascertained during the initial interview, you might be called in for an additional interview to further discuss your relationship or background.

In order to be prepared to deal with unexpected turns during your application process, work with a knowledgable Attorney who can guide you through the process.