Interview and Approval

After the marriage-based green card interview, the officer may approve your application on the spot or inform you that your case needs additional review. If approved, you’ll typically receive an official notice, followed by your green card in the mail within a few weeks. Sometimes, USCIS may need more information or issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) if they need clarification on specific details, such as missing documents or inconsistencies noted during the interview. If additional information is required, respond quickly and thoroughly to avoid further delays.

If your case is approved, and you’ve been married for less than two years, you’ll receive a conditional green card that is valid for two years, after which you’ll need to apply to remove conditions.

Yes, in most cases, both spouses are required to attend the marriage-based green card interview. This interview is an essential part of proving that your marriage is genuine and not just for immigration purposes. If you’re applying from within the United States (Adjustment of Status), you and your spouse will be interviewed together at your local USCIS office. If you’re applying from abroad, the U.S. citizen or green card holder spouse may not be required to attend the interview at the consulate, but it’s still highly recommended to provide support if possible.

If either spouse cannot attend due to an emergency, it’s important to notify USCIS or the consulate immediately, as missing an interview without notice can lead to delays or even denials.

If your marriage-based green card interview doesn’t go as planned, don’t panic—there are still options. Sometimes, the interviewing officer may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) if they need more information to make a decision. In other cases, they might schedule a follow-up interview, possibly a “Stokes interview,” where both spouses are questioned separately to verify their answers match. If your application is denied, you’ll receive a notice explaining the reasons, and you may be able to appeal or reapply if the issues can be addressed. It’s important to remain calm and provide any requested information quickly and accurately to improve your chances of a positive outcome. Having legal guidance during this stage can also be incredibly helpful.

Preparing for your marriage-based green card interview involves both understanding what to expect and gathering the necessary documents. First, review your application thoroughly so that both you and your spouse are familiar with all the details you provided. Be ready to answer questions about your relationship, from how you met to your daily routines. Bring key documents, like updated proof of your marriage, joint financial records, and recent photos together. Practice answering questions clearly and consistently but avoid memorizing responses, as this can come across as rehearsed. Dress professionally and arrive on time. The goal is to demonstrate that your relationship is genuine, so try to stay calm, relaxed, and answer honestly.

During a marriage-based green card interview, the officer will ask a variety of questions to verify that your marriage is genuine. These questions are meant to determine how well you and your spouse know each other and whether your relationship is authentic, not just for immigration purposes. Expect questions about how you met, details of your wedding, and your daily routines, such as “Where did you go on your first date?” or “What side of the bed does your spouse sleep on?” They may also ask about your family, hobbies, and shared financial responsibilities. The officer may direct questions to either spouse separately or together, so it’s important to be prepared and consistent. Relax and answer honestly—this is an opportunity to share your genuine story.