If you’re among many Kentucky immigrants whose ultimate goals are to obtain permanent residency status or even become naturalized citizens, you’ve likely been working hard to become fluent in English. Perhaps you’ve also already overcome various challenges related to customs and culture in the United States. Adapting to a new lifestyle after emigrating from another country of origin is definitely not for the faint of heart. It’s challenging and often stressful.
Having the love of your life by your side can definitely make navigating the immigration system a lot less stressful. Applying for a marriage-based green card may be a key factor toward accomplishing all your immigration goals. Once you have a green card, you’re free to live, work and stay in the United States permanently. You do, however, need to renew your green card whenever it expires. Preparing for your green card interview is a crucial part of your whole process.
This type of interview is unique
The main difference between a green card interview and other types of interviews, such as a job interview, is that the officials asking the questions have a lot to do with your ability to stay in the United States. When you apply for a marriage-based visa, you must convince your interviewer that your relationship with your spouse is legitimate.
Who is the consular officer?
The consular officer is the immigration official who will be asking the questions at your green card interview. Even if you meet all eligibility requirements for application, if the consular officer suspects that you are somehow trying to beat the system, he or she may deny your application.
Be as prepared as possible
The better prepared you are when you appear at your green card interview, the more positive an impression you are likely to make. If you show up without necessary paperwork, you’ll be creating problems from the start. In addition to the appointment letter you received in the mail, it’s also a good idea to take along your valid passport, civil documents, such as your marriage certificate, and any other supporting documents that help obtain application acceptance.
Build a strong support network
You can’t possibly learn everything you need to know about life in the United States overnight. You also can’t accomplish all your immigration goals, such as obtaining a green card, without navigating numerous processes step by step. If you have friends or family members who have already accomplished similar immigration goals in Kentucky, they can be a great source of support.
It’s also a good idea to know where to seek support if any legal status problems or issues arise that are impeding your ability to complete the application process or are placing you at risk for removal.
