If you’re a U.S. citizen sponsoring your parent for a green card (IR-5 visa), one of the final steps in the process is the green card interview. This interview helps U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the U.S. consulate verify the parent-child relationship, review eligibility, and confirm that all documents are truthful and complete.
In this guide, we’ll explain what questions officers typically ask parents at green card interviews, how to prepare, and what documents to bring so your family can approach the interview with confidence.
Common Questions Asked During a Parent Green Card Interview
While no two interviews are identical, officers tend to focus on a few consistent areas. Here’s what your parent can expect:
1. Identity and Biographical Information
- What is your full name and date of birth?
- Where were you born?
- What is your current address?
- Have you ever used any other names?
- What is your spouse’s name (if married)?
- How many children do you have?
2. Questions About the Sponsoring U.S. Citizen Child
- What is your son or daughter’s full name and date of birth?
- Where does your child currently live?
- When did your child become a U.S. citizen?
- What is your child’s occupation?
- What is your child’s phone number or email address?
- How often do you communicate with your child?
3. Relationship Verification
- Who took care of your child growing up?
- Did you live together when they were a child?
- When was the last time you saw your child in person?
- Do you have photos or correspondence together?
These questions simply confirm that the family relationship is genuine and not fraudulent.
4. Immigration History
- Have you ever been denied a U.S. visa before?
- Have you ever been deported or removed from the United States?
- Have you ever overstayed a visa or entered the U.S. illegally?
- Have you previously applied for a U.S. visa or immigration benefit?
5. Criminal and Security Background
- Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a crime?
- Have you ever belonged to or supported any organizations considered illegal?
- Have you ever misrepresented information to a U.S. official?
Answer truthfully. If there are concerns, our attorney can help you prepare an explanation and supporting documentation.
6. Intent and Future Plans
- Why do you want to live in the United States?
- Where will you live once you receive your green card?
- Do you plan to work in the U.S.?
- Do you understand the rights and responsibilities of a permanent resident?
What to Bring to the Interview
In preparation, make sure your parent brings:
- Passport and appointment letter
- Original birth certificates (of both parent and sponsoring child)
- Proof of the U.S. child’s citizenship (U.S. passport or naturalization certificate)
- Marriage certificates or adoption papers, if applicable
- Financial documents for the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
- Medical examination results (if not previously submitted)
- Any prior immigration records or visas
Tip: Bring neatly organized copies and originals. The officer will appreciate clarity.
Tips to Help Parents Succeed at the Interview
- Arrive early (30–45 minutes before your appointment).
- Answer honestly and clearly. Don’t guess or memorize.
- Bring translations for any documents not in English.
- Dress professionally and stay calm.
- Review your I-130 and I-485 (or DS-260) before attending so the information matches.
What Happens After the Interview?
If approved, your parent will receive their green card within a few weeks. If the officer needs more evidence, you’ll be notified in writing.
Once the green card arrives, your parent can:
- Live and work in the U.S. permanently
- Travel freely (with some limits)
- Apply for U.S. citizenship after five years
For most parents of U.S. citizens, the green card interview is the final, celebratory step in a long journey toward family reunification. The best way to prepare is by reviewing the submitted application together, organizing documents, and understanding the kinds of questions officers typically ask.
At ILOLA, our attorneys prepare clients for these interviews every week. We’ll walk your family through mock interview questions, review your evidence, and make sure you’re fully ready for approval day.
Call (213) 375-4084 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our green card attorney.
