It is essential to be prepared for your immigration interview. Here are some tips from a Hialeah immigration attorney.
Before sitting down with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you need to be prepared. The officer will ask you a variety of questions. Some questions may catch you off guard if you are not expecting them. It is wise to get the help of a Hialeah immigration attorney from Casais & Prias to guide you through the questions and get your answers ready.
Where have you lived in the past five years?
To answer this question, you will need the addresses of every place you have lived over the past five years. It can be challenging to remember old addresses off the top of your head, so take some time before your interview to look up each address and note it. The USCIS will verify these addresses, and if there is a discrepancy it could affect your case.
How many trips have you taken outside the United States in the past five years?
When you compile your list of trips outside the United States, be prepared to provide the date you left the US, the date you returned to the US, the countries you visited during your travel, the total number of days outside the US, and if the trip lasted more than 6 months.
In addition, be prepared to explain precisely what you were doing during these trips. This is a common question and one the USCIS takes very seriously.
Have you ever been a member of, involved in, or in any way associated with, any organization, association, fund, party, club, or similar group in the US or anywhere in the world?
This question relates to any organizations with which you may be affiliated. The USCIS is asking to determine if you have any ties to organizations that could be considered to be criminal, terrorist, or communist. You must provide USCIS with a list of all organizations or similar groups you are a member of.
Are you applying for spousal-based immigration?
If you are applying for immigration based on marital status, you will be asked several questions about your marriage. Some of these questions could include:
- When did you and your spouse meet?
- Where did you go on your first date?
- How long did you know your spouse before you got married?
- In what year and location were you married?
- Where did you go on your honeymoon?
- What does your spouse do for a living?
You and your spouse may be interviewed separately. It is important that you give the same answers, so your relationship is verified. If your answers do not match, your immigration application could be rejected.
Your Hialeah immigration attorney can walk you through the questions you will likely be asked so that you are prepared. Here are some other tips to help you as you get ready for your interview.
Dress business casual
You do not need to wear a dress or suit and tie, but dress respectfully. You want to make a good impression during your interview.
Be honest
Think of this interview as an opportunity to tell your story. Why are you applying for citizenship?
Arrive early
It shows respect for the time of the interviewer to be ready. If you are late, it could delay your application.
Have all of your documents ready
Your Hialeah immigration attorney will help you gather what you need for your interview.
Know what questions you will be asked
Having answers ready will show that you are prepared and are taking the interview seriously.
Schedule a preparation session with your attorney
You and your Hialeah immigration attorney can have a mock interview so that you will know how the session will go on the day that it is scheduled.
It is smart to be prepared for your immigration interview. The best way to do this is by hiring a Hialeah immigrant attorney from Casais & Prias. Our team has experience in immigration and citizenship law, and we care about your situation and will do everything we can to help. Contact us today to schedule your free case evaluation.