A green card interview is usually about two things: (1) confirming identity and eligibility, and (2) confirming the family relationship.
This page gives you a simple checklist for both interview types:
USCIS interviews (adjustment of status inside the U.S.) and consular interviews (at a U.S. embassy/consulate abroad).

Spouse case? Start here:
Marriage Green Card.

Step 1: Identify your interview type

Step 2: Use a simple timeline (so you don’t rush at the end)

Step 3: What to bring (core checklist)

Bring these basics

• Appointment notice (USCIS notice or consulate appointment letter).
• Passports (current, and any old passports if you still have them).
• Government ID (if applicable).
• Original civil documents you submitted or referenced (plus copies).
• Certified translations for any foreign-language documents (plus copies).

Civil documents (common examples)

• Birth certificate
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Divorce decrees / death certificates for prior marriages (if applicable)
• Police certificates (often important for consular cases; follow country rules)

If your case is marriage-based: bring updated relationship proof

In spouse cases, officers often want to see proof you are living a real shared life. Bring updated documents—especially anything new since you filed.

Strong examples (pick what fits your life)

• Joint lease or mortgage
• Joint bank account statements
• Insurance showing both spouses (health, auto, renter’s/home)
• Photos over time (not just one day)
• Travel records together
• Children’s records (if applicable)
• Mail showing the same address

USCIS interview checklist (AOS inside the U.S.)

Common USCIS interview focus

• Your identity and basic biographic information
• Your immigration history (entries, status, key dates)
• Your relationship (especially spouse cases)
• Yes/no questions from the I-485 (you may be asked to explain)

Practical tip

Review the forms you filed so your answers match. If something changed, bring an explanation and updated documents.

Consular interview checklist (embassy/consulate abroad)

For consular cases, you generally must bring the original (or certified copy) versions of the civil documents you submitted to NVC,
plus required photos and any post-specific items listed by the embassy/consulate.

Do not skip this

• Follow your embassy/consulate instructions (each post can add requirements).
• Bring originals of civil documents you uploaded through CEAC.
• Confirm whether any police certificates must be updated.

Official reference (general prep steps):
Prepare for the Interview (State Department)

Medical exam reminder

Many cases require a medical exam. The rules and the doctor type are different for USCIS vs consular cases.
Follow the instructions in your notice and your local post requirements.

Official consular medical exam FAQs:
Medical Examination FAQs (State Department)

Common mistakes that cause delays

• Missing originals (consular cases often require originals of civil documents you submitted to NVC).
• Not enough relationship proof (spouse cases) or not updated since filing.
• I-864 problems (missing proof of current income or unclear joint sponsor plan).
• Names/dates do not match across passports, certificates, and forms.
• Translations missing or incomplete.

What happens after the interview?

• You may get an approval, a request for more documents, or more processing.
• If you receive a request for more evidence, respond on time and answer each point clearly.
• If the case is consular and the post asks for more documents, follow the post instructions and submit exactly what they request.

General information only. Not legal advice.

Want help getting ready?

We can help you prepare a clear interview binder, update your relationship evidence (if needed), and fix common issues before the interview date.

General information only. Not legal advice.

FAQ

Related pages:
Family-Based Visas hub •
Document checklist •
Adjustment of status •
Consular processing •
RFEs & NOIDs