Increased immigration, security concerns, economic factors, and other influences in recent years have all led to a considerable change in the way U.S. non-immigrant visas are granted, particularly regarding their categories, preferences, and quotas. What has not changed, however, is the visa interview process which allows immigration officers to screen through applications. This step in the immigration process tends to be a considerable source of anxiety and difficulty for many individuals looking to visit, study, or work in the United States. Fortunately, there are many ways that you can prepare for this interview and know what to say when questioned.
Some of the most important factors US officers consider when interviewing an applicant include:
- Link to home country: An applicant’s ties to their home country, whether they be financial, familial, business-related, educational, or otherwise, demonstrate that they are not intending to permanently immigrate and are highly scrutinized by immigration officers. U.S. visa consular officers always assume that an applicant intends to stay in the United States unless they are convinced that their foreign ties present a suitable need to return.
- Finances: While having a strong financial standing can have a positive impact during a visa interview, it is not required. America is not only for the rich, and consular officers understand this. However, applicants must be able to show that they have enough financial resources to cover their expenses during stay in the United States.
- Language: Having a strong ability to read, write, and speak English is important not only for the interview, but also as a means of understanding American culture. Generally speaking, applicants who are unable to understand interview questions or answer them in a coherent manner may encounter difficulty receiving approval from a consular officer.
- Confidence: Consular officers like applicants who can speak for themselves in a one-on-one setting in a confident manner. Lack of confidence or a hesitance to speak about one’s travel plans may cause an officer to suspect that their answers are invalid.
- Dependents: Tying into financial standing, the number of dependents in an applicant’s home country will be important. While it serves as a solid link to their home country, having a large number of dependents at home may cause an officer to question an applicant’s ability to support themselves financially while in the United States.
- Attitude: Having a positive attitude can do wonders to help your chances of approval. Do not argue with a consular officer. Instead, remain polite and try to understand what they need to make a favorable decision for your application.
- Honesty: Lying to an immigration officer is the easiest way to have your application denied. Remember, these people are trained professionals who will be able to sense if you are trying to stretch the truth. Genuinely explaining your situation and reason to travel will help you maintain a solid chance of approval.
MAXIMIZE YOUR CHANCES OF SUCCESS WITH USILAW
While these tips can help you know what to expect during your interview, by far the best way to boost your chances of success is to enlist the services of a knowledgeable attorney. At USILaw, our Montgomery County immigration lawyers provide premier-quality immigration advocacy to clients around the globe and can maximize your chances of success.
Contact us online or call (800) 335-8520 today to find out more about how we can assist you.
