How to Prepare for the Adjustment of Status Interview: Practical Tips for New York Applicants
At Sharma Law Associates, LLC, our New York immigration attorney helps clients navigate every phase of the Adjustment of Status process, including the in-person interview with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This interview is a key milestone in becoming a lawful permanent resident (green card holder). While many applicants view the interview with anxiety, preparation can make a significant difference in both your confidence and outcome.
If your interview is scheduled at the USCIS Field Office in New York—or elsewhere—it’s essential to understand what’s expected, what documents to bring, and how to avoid common mistakes. Below, we provide practical tips to help ensure you are ready.
Why the Adjustment of Status Interview Matters
The Adjustment of Status interview is USCIS’s opportunity to verify the accuracy of your application, confirm that your relationship or employment is legitimate (if applicable), and determine whether you are eligible for permanent residency. The officer may ask questions about your background, immigration history, and supporting evidence.
While not all applicants are interviewed, most family-based applicants and many employment-based applicants will be required to attend. If you are adjusting status through marriage, the interview will focus heavily on the legitimacy of your relationship.
An interview is not a formality—it’s a critical step. Your green card approval may hinge on the strength of your answers and the credibility of your documentation.
What to Bring to Your Adjustment of Status Interview
One of the most common reasons for delays is failing to bring the required documents. At Sharma Law Associates, LLC, we help clients compile a comprehensive interview packet.
You should bring:
· Government-issued photo IDs, including a passport or work permit.
· Interview notice from USCIS.
· Original documents submitted with your application, including birth/marriage certificates or tax returns.
· Proof of lawful entry, including I-94, visa stamp, or advance parole.
· Updated evidence of your relationship or employment.
· Recent pay stubs, tax documents, or joint financial records.
· Married couples should include photographs, joint leases or bills, and other documents showing a shared life together.
How to Prepare for Interview Questions
During the interview, the USCIS officer may ask detailed questions about your application, immigration history, or—if applying through marriage—your relationship timeline and daily life.
Some practical preparation steps include:
· Review your entire application before the interview.
· Practice answering questions clearly and honestly.
· Be consistent—inconsistencies may raise red flags.
· Stay calm and respectful, even if questions feel personal or unexpected.
· Bring an interpreter, if needed, who is not a family member.
If you have had prior immigration issues, misstatements, or a complex legal history, we strongly recommend that you be represented by an attorney at the interview.
What Happens After the Interview?
Following the interview, USCIS may:
· Approve your case on the spot.
· Issue a Request for Evidence (RFE).
· Continue reviewing your case.
· Schedule a second interview if clarification is needed.
We help clients respond to post-interview developments to avoid delays and ensure proper follow-up.
Speak With a New York Adjustment of Status Attorney Today
Preparing for your green card interview doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Sharma Law Associates, LLC, we provide experienced, strategic support to Adjustment of Status applicants in New York and beyond. Call 646-760-6339, contact us online, or schedule a consultation today to get the guidance you need to succeed.
Related Blogs:
Ultimate Guide to Navigating the Marriage-Based Green Card Interview
What to Do If Your Green Card Is Denied After an In-Person Interview
