Should I be nervous for USCIS interview?
Asked by: Miss Heather Schroeder MD | Last update: December 12, 2025Score: 4.6/5 (70 votes)
If you're nervous about this step, don't be! As long as you fulfill the requirements for naturalization and prepare adequately for the interview, you'll be in good shape. In this guide, you will learn what to expect before, during, and after the interview and how to properly prepare.
Should I be nervous for a green card interview?
It's ok to feel nervous and anxious. Take a deep breathe and take it one step at a time. Once you get inside the interview room, you will be in your element.
What should you not do during an USCIS interview?
- Don't joke around with the USCIS officer. ...
- Don't argue with your spouse or other family members during an interview. ...
- Don't argue with the USCIS officer. ...
- Don't lose your patience with the USCIS officer and refuse to answer questions. ...
- Don't lie to the USCIS officer.
How to pass an USCIS interview?
- Arrive on time. ...
- Wait for your Attorney. ...
- Dress appropriately. ...
- Listen to the Questions Asked and Respond Appropriately. ...
- Bring an Interpreter. ...
- Bring a set of original documents and a duplicate set of copies. ...
- More is better than less.
Is it common to be nervous for an interview?
Interview anxiety is a normal and natural response to be evaluated in an interview setting. It's a beast that 93% of job seekers battle, according to a 2020 survey by JDP, an employment screening company. A significant chunk of my clients ask me for ways to prevent anxiety from tanking their performance.
You Can’t Be Nervous at Your Interview
Can being nervous make you fail an interview?
You might think it's one of the weaknesses that interviewers try to avoid when hiring, but it's a lot more normal for a person to be nervous at interviews than you might think. Saying it out loud can actually help. Share with the employer that you are extremely interested in the position and the company.
How do I control my interview anxiety?
Mentally Prepare
Meditate or listen to relaxing music. Try positive self-talk (i.e., "I can and I will do this.", "I am good enough.", "I am qualified for this job."). Visualize positive outcomes (such as "This interview will go well, and it will end with me confidently shaking hands and gathering business cards.").
What to wear to an USCIS interview?
Business casual is typically a safe and appropriate choice. This includes slacks and a button-down shirt or a sweater over a formal shirt. Shirts: Button-down shirts or polo shirts. Pants: Slacks or dress pants.
How long is the USCIS interview?
After USCIS receives your N-400, it generally schedules you for a biometrics appointment. There, USCIS takes your fingerprints, photograph, and signature. You should receive a notice scheduling your appointment within a month or two of submitting your N-400, and your appointment should take around 20 minutes.
How do you know if your USCIS interview went well?
If the interview goes well, the U.S. government will approve your Green Card case. In many cases, the interviewing officer will let you know that your case is approved at your interview! You can expect to receive your Green Card in the mail some 2 to 3 weeks after your case is approved.
What is the best answer to an immigration interview?
Being honest is always the best approach in your immigration interview. If you are asked a question you do not know the answer to, do not try to just make something up.
What not to say to an immigration officer?
- “I'm not familiar with U.S. immigration laws.”
- “Actually, I have applied for asylum in another country.”
- “I don't have travel insurance.”
- “I don't know where I'll be staying.”
- “I'm not sure about the details of my visa application.”
- “I've been denied a visa before.”
How many people pass the green card interview?
In a Nutshell
Of these, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (“USCIS”) approves about 88% and denies 12%.
What not to do at a green card interview?
Forgetting documents, saying too much, lying, and other issues can all create problems during the final phase of applying for your U.S. green card: attending an adjustment of status interview at a USCIS office.
Can I wear jeans to green card interview?
For men, this means wearing a suit isn't necessary, but a nice shirt and pants would be best. Examples of attire that may be best to avoid include clothing that is wrinkled, ill-fitting, stained, worn out, or risque. Likewise, you probably should not wear jeans, t-shirts, shorts, sweatpants/sweatshirts or gym clothes.
How do I prepare for USCIS interview?
Before your naturalization interview, study for the English and civics test by using our free resources to help you prepare. For the English portion of the naturalization test you must demonstrate an understanding of the English language, including the ability to read, write, and speak basic English.
How long does it take for USCIS to make a decision after interview?
After the Interview
If USCIS has everything it needs from you, they may also decide on your citizenship application the same day. (If you're lucky, your Oath of Allegiance ceremony may happen then, too.) Otherwise, they'll have up to 120 days after your interview to make a decision.
What is the hardest question on the citizenship test?
Arguably the hardest question on the U.S. citizenship test is number 67: The Federalist Papers supported the passage of the U.S. Constitution. Name one of the writers. This answer is unknown to even most American citizens because the Federalist Party ceased to exist back in 1824.
How many questions does USCIS ask in an interview?
There are 100 civics questions on the naturalization test. During your naturalization interview, you will be asked up to 10 questions from the list of 100 questions. You must answer correctly 6 of the 10 questions to pass the civics test. You have two opportunities to take the English and civics tests per application.
What can you bring to USCIS interview?
You should bring the following identification to your interview: (a) your Permanent Resident or Alien Registration Card, (b) your passport (even if it has expired), (c) State Identification Card, and (d) any Re-entry Permits you have. In some cases, USCIS may ask you to bring additional documents to the interview.
Does USCIS do background check before interview?
We do not approve a naturalization application without first resolving all background checks concerning the applicant. For purposes of judicial economy, we will promptly cease even to schedule any naturalization interviews until all background checks have been completed in a particular case.
Should you apologize for being nervous in an interview?
If you absolutely feel driven to mention your nervousness, just say it ever so casually “I know I was a bit nervous and thank everyone for being so easy to talk to!” Or some variation of that idea.
How to calm nervousness?
- Just breathe. Breathing seems like the most natural thing in the world. ...
- Close your eyes and count to 10 slowly. It really works! ...
- Chew a piece of gum. ...
- Phone a friend – preferably a funny one. ...
- Smell lavender. ...
- Curl up with your cat or dog. ...
- Listen to calming music. ...
- Exercise your body.
How do you introduce yourself in an interview?
- Step 1: Greet Your Interviewers. ...
- Step 2: Let Your Interviewers Know About Your Educational Background. ...
- Step 3: An Alternate Approach for Seasoned Professionals. ...
- Step 4: A Line or Two on Your Passions and Hobbies. ...
- Step 5: The Vital Closing Statement.