What to Do If Your Green Card Is Denied After an In-Person Interview
Receiving a denial after a green card interview can be devastating, especially when you’ve spent months or even years preparing your case. Whether your application was based on a family relationship, marriage, employment, or another pathway, a denial doesn’t necessarily mean the end of the road. You still have options—but timing and legal strategy are critical.
At Sharma Law Associates, our New York immigration attorneys work with individuals and families to understand the reason behind a denial and build a path forward. Here’s what you need to know if you’ve received a green card denial after your in-person interview.
Why Was My Green Card Denied?
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) typically issues a written notice explaining the reason for the denial.
Some of the most common reasons include:
· Missing or inconsistent documentation.
· Failure to establish a bona fide marriage (in marriage-based cases).
· Criminal history or prior immigration violations.
· Public charge concerns or insufficient financial sponsorship.
· Discrepancies during the interview.
· Previously accrued unlawful presence.
Before you can take your next step, it’s important to review the denial notice with an experienced immigration attorney carefully. Some denials may be due to procedural errors, while others may stem from substantive eligibility issues.
Step 1: Don’t Panic—and Don’t Ignore the Denial
A denial is not a deportation order, but it can lead to removal proceedings if your current status is no longer valid. Do not ignore a denial notice or delay action. Seek legal guidance immediately to preserve your options.
Step 2: Determine If You Can File a Motion or Appeal
You can often file a Motion to Reopen or a Motion to Reconsider with USCIS (using Form I-290B). This allows you to present new evidence or point out legal errors in the decision. You must file the motion within 30 days of the denial, so time is of the essence.
An appeal may also be possible, depending on the denial and the type of petition.
Step 3: Refile a New Application
Sometimes the best course of action is to start over with a new application, especially if your circumstances have changed or you’ve corrected the issue that led to the denial. This can be faster and cleaner than appealing a weak or outdated case.
Our attorneys help clients determine if refiling offers a stronger path to approval.
Step 4: Prepare for Removal Proceedings (If Applicable)
If your denial leads to removal proceedings in immigration court, you must defend your case before a judge. Sometimes, you may be able to renew your green card application in court as a form of relief.
Our New York immigration attorneys represent clients in USCIS proceedings and immigration court, ensuring continuity and strong advocacy.
Let Sharma Law Associates Help You Move Forward
A green card denial is stressful, but it is not the end. With the proper legal support, many applicants can successfully reapply or overcome the denial through motions, appeals, or court proceedings. At Sharma Law Associates, we provide compassionate, strategic guidance at every stage.
Call us at 646-846-4221 or online to schedule a consultation and discuss your next steps.
