Family-Based Green Card Interview Questions for Parents

If you're looking for sample interview questions for a family-based green card process, particularly for parents, you may find it challenging to locate examples. While there are many resources available for marriage-based petitions, it's rare to find interview questions for parents applying for a family-based green card through Form I-130 and Form I-485. So, what type of questions might USCIS ask parents during their green card interview? This blog provides insights into some basic inquiries and highlights potential challenges that could arise during the parent green card interview process.

First and foremost, you will want to ensure that your parents are eligible for adjustment of status in the United States. Once this is confirmed and the adjustment of status application (I-485) is filed, they may be scheduled for an interview with USCIS. The USCIS interview questions for parents are typically focus around the parent-child relationship, especially if you, as the petitioning child, are filing a family-based green card petition for them. Remember, you must be a U.S. citizen and 21 years old or older to petition for your parents.

The USCIS officer will review the adjustment of status application and ask questions during the green card interview. At this time, you will also have the opportunity to make any necessary corrections or updates.

Some family-based green card interview questions USCIS may ask your parents include:

• How did you enter the United States?

• What type of visa did you use to enter the United States?

• What was your intent at the time of entry?

• Have you ever lied or omitted information on a U.S. visa application?

• Have you ever been arrested in the U.S. or abroad?

• Have you ever violated your visa conditions?

• Have you worked in the U.S. without authorization?

• Have you ever been in immigration court or removal proceedings?

• Has anyone ever filed an immigration petition on your behalf before?

If any of the above mentioned questions have a response of "yes," you may want to reach out to an experienced immigration attorney immediately, especially if the USCIS interview is approaching.

Additional questions that may be asked:

• Why didn't you apply for an immigrant visa through the U.S. consulate abroad if your child was already a U.S. citizen?

• How soon after entering the United States did your child file the I-130 and I-485 applications?

• Do you still maintain ties to your home country?

• Did you ever apply for asylum, TPS or any other immigration relief before this petition?

A complicated immigration history may significantly affect your eligibility for a family-based green card especially when issues such as prior deportation orders, fraud or misrepresentation are involved. These cases should be handled carefully.

(This blog is written by Attorney Poonam Minhas. It has general questions that USCIS may ask parents during their adjustment of status interview. It is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Should you have any questions about your immigration matter, kindly consult with an experienced immigration attorney.)