If you plan to apply for a visa to immigrate or visit the United States, you will likely be required to attend an interview at the Consulate or Embassy. While the thought of an interview may be intimidating, there are some key things you can do to prepare and increase your chances of success. Here’s what you need to know about a visa interview.
Understand the purpose of the interview
The primary purpose of a visa interview is to determine whether you meet the eligibility requirements for the visa you seek. The consular officer conducting the interview will review your application and ask questions to confirm your identity, purpose of travel, and other relevant information. They may also ask about your ties to your home country and your plans for returning after your visit.
Gather all required documentation
Before your interview, ensure you have all the required documentation to support your visa application. This may include your passport, visa application forms, evidence of financial support, travel itinerary, and any other supporting documents required for your specific visa category. Review the specific requirements for your visa category and bring the required documents to the interview.
Be honest and clear in your responses
You must be honest and transparent in your responses and provide concise and relevant answers. Avoid providing more information than is necessary or giving vague or incomplete answers. Feel free to ask for clarification if you need help understanding a question.
Be respectful and courteous
The visa interview is formal, and being respectful and courteous to the consular officer and other embassy staff is essential. Dress appropriately and arrive on time for your interview. Listen carefully to the questions and respond politely and professionally. Avoid arguing or becoming defensive, even if you disagree with a question or decision.
Follow-up after the interview
After the interview, the consular officer may provide you with additional instructions or request additional information or documentation. Be sure to follow up promptly and provide any requested information or documentation. Depending on processing times, you will receive your visa within a few days or weeks if approved.
The visa interview is an essential step in the visa application process, and it’s important to prepare carefully and follow all instructions. By understanding the purpose of the interview, gathering all required documentation, being honest and transparent in your responses, being respectful and courteous, and following up promptly, you can increase your chances of success and obtain the visa you need to visit or immigrate to the United States.
Candidate interview
A single consular official will conduct a U.S. visa interview. You will be asked various questions about your application and proposed to stay in the U.S. regardless of the type of visa you are requesting.
You will be required to provide digital fingerprint scans during the interview process.
You should not make any long-term financial commitments, such as selling your home, car, or property, quitting your job, or making other travel plans, until you have received your immigrant visa.
Who is required to attend the interview?
You, your spouse, and any qualifying unmarried children accompanying you must attend the interview.
All applicants will be listed on the interview appointment letter.
If your spouse and qualifying unmarried children intend to immigrate separately from you at a later date, they are not required to participate in your interview.
What should you bring to the interview?
The applicant must bring all required certified or original documents to the visa interview. Please bring all required documents to the interview to avoid a visa delay or denial.
- Appointment Letter – The interview appointment letter from NVC.
- Passport – Each applicant must have an unexpired passport valid for six months beyond the intended entry date into the United States.
- Photographs – Applicants must submit two identical colour photographs.
- Confirmation Page of the DS-160.
- Original or certified copies of all supporting documents; these will be returned after the interview, and any photocopies may be kept.
- English Translations – If NVC did not receive documents requiring English translation.
- Visa Fees – If NVC collected your visa application fees, you do not need to pay them again. If you or a family member did not pay all the required fees, you must pay any outstanding fees.
Contact the United States Embassy or Consulate immediately if you cannot attend your scheduled interview.