Can I Get a Green Card Without an Interview?

Apr 20, 2024 | Green Card

green card no interview

Obtaining a green card, or lawful permanent residency, in the United States is a significant milestone for many immigrants. It offers the opportunity for a stable and secure future in a country known for its diverse opportunities. However, the process of acquiring a green card involves various steps, including filing petitions and attending interviews. One common question that arises in this process is whether it’s possible to secure a green card without undergoing an interview. 

In this blog, we’ll delve into the details of green card petitions and interviews to shed light on this important topic.

What is a Petition for a Green Card?

A petition for a green card, formally known as lawful permanent residency, is a crucial step in the process of obtaining permission to live and work permanently in the United States. It serves as evidence of a qualifying relationship between a sponsor and an immigrant, laying the foundation for the green card application.

3 Types of Green Card Petitions

  1. Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative

This form is a key document in the U.S. immigration process used to establish a qualifying relationship between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder) and a foreign national relative seeking a green card.

  1. Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker

Filed by an employer on behalf of a foreign worker, this petition aims to secure a green card for individuals with exceptional skills or employment opportunities in the United States.

More: What Should I Expect at an Employment-based Green Card Interview?

  1. Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant

This petition is submitted to USCIS for various special immigrant categories, including abused spouses, religious workers, and certain juvenile immigrants.

Each petition plays a crucial role in initiating the green card process and establishing eligibility for permanent residency in the United States.

What is a Petition for Permanent Residency?

Once a petition has been approved by USCIS, the next step is to apply for permanent residency through either an adjustment of status or an immigrant visa application. The adjustment of the status process (Form I-485) allows eligible individuals to complete the green card process within the United States, while the immigrant visa application (Form DS-260) is required for those processing their green card case outside the country.

While many petitions can be approved without the need for an interview, the adjustment of status application typically requires an in-person interview with USCIS officers. This interview serves as an opportunity for USCIS to verify the information provided in the application and assess the applicant’s eligibility for permanent residency.

Do All Green Card Approvals Require an Interview?

The necessity of an interview for green card approval varies depending on individual circumstances. USCIS may waive the interview requirement for certain applicants after thoroughly reviewing their case. Some scenarios where interviews may be waived include:

  • Applicants who are clearly ineligible for adjustment of status.
  • Unmarried children under 21 years old filing Form I-485 on their own.
  • Parents of U.S. citizens.
  • Unmarried children of lawful permanent residents under the age of 14.

However, even in cases where interviews are typically waived, USCIS reserves the right to require a personal appearance if deemed necessary. For example, military personnel petitioners and incarcerated petitioners may still be required to attend interviews, albeit with certain accommodations made by USCIS.

Additionally, USCIS may waive the personal appearance of applicants or petitioners who are incapacitated due to illness or other circumstances. In such cases, USCIS officers carefully evaluate the situation on a case-by-case basis to determine the necessity of an interview.

Ready to Navigate the Complexities of Immigration Law?

Navigating the immigration process, including green card applications and interviews, can be daunting without proper guidance. At 360 Immigration Law Group, we understand the importance of personalized support and expertise in achieving your immigration goals. Whether you’re in Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Boca Raton, Tamarac, Parkland, Deerfield Beach, Sunrise, Oakland Park, Fort Lauderdale, and Plantation, our team offers complimentary consultations in multiple languages. Contact us today at 954.667.3660 to take the first step towards securing your future with confidence.