Marriage visas allow U.S. citizens to bring foreign spouses or fiancé(e)s to live in the United States. Three common marriage visas include:
- K-1 fiancé(e) visas, which let your fiancé(e) enter the U.S. to marry you within 90 days
- K-3 spouse visas, which allow your spouse to enter and wait for immigrant visa approval
- CR1/IR1 immigrant visas, which grant immediate permanent residency to spouses already married to U.S. citizens
Interviews play a key role in the marriage visa immigration process. At a visa interview, a consular officer reviews your documents to confirm they match the information on your application. They also examine evidence of your relationship, like photographs or messages, to make sure your marriage or engagement is genuine.
Scheduling the Interview
After the National Visa Center (NVC) processes your case, it will schedule your interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country. You, your petitioner, and your attorney will receive an email with the appointment details. Before the interview, you will need to complete your medical exam with an approved doctor and gather all required documents.
Documentation Checklist
When you arrive at the embassy or consulate for your interview, you will need to have certain documents with you, including:
- Your interview appointment letter from the NVC
- A passport that will remain valid for at least six months after you plan to enter the U.S.
- A printed confirmation page (DS-260) of your completed visa application form
- Two recent, color passport-sized photographs (2 inches by 2 inches)
- Your original birth certificate and one photocopy
- Proof of marital status, which might include birth or death certificates if you or your spouse or fiancé(e) were married before
- A police certificate from the country where you currently live and anywhere else you have lived for at least six months since turning 16
- Medical examination results from an approved doctor
- Evidence that you or your spouse or fiancé(e) can financially support you in the U.S.
- Proof of your relationship, such as photos of you and your spouse together, travel receipts, or records of messages exchanged
- Certified translations of any relevant documents that are not in English
Common Interview Questions
During the interview, the consular officer will ask you questions to confirm that your relationship is real. You must answer clearly and truthfully. Common questions include:
- How did you and your spouse or fiancé(e) meet?
- When and where did you get married (or when and where do you plan to marry)?
- How often do you communicate with your spouse or fiancé(e)?
- Have you met each other’s families?
- What do you and your spouse or fiancé(e) have in common?
- Where does your spouse or fiancé(e) live and work?
- Have you ever been denied a visa before?
- Do you have wedding or honeymoon plans?
The officer might also ask follow-up questions if they need more details.
What Happens After the Interview?
If the consular officer approves your visa after the interview, you will receive instructions on how and when to collect your passport with the visa inside. Some applicants face additional administrative processing, which can delay approval. If the officer needs more documents, they will explain what you must provide. If they deny your application, they will tell you why and whether you can apply for a waiver. If you receive your visa, you must enter the United States before it expires, usually within six months.
How Legal Assistance Can Benefit You
An immigration lawyer can help you prepare for your marriage visa interview by reviewing your documents and identifying potential issues. They can also explain what to expect, suggest ways to strengthen your case, and help you gather evidence to prove your relationship is real. If your case faces delays, your lawyer can communicate with U.S. immigration officials on your behalf. If the consular officer denies your visa, an attorney can assess your options and help you file an appeal or a new application.
Contact an Immigration Lawyer Now
The marriage visa interview is an important step in the immigration process. Rahimi Law Firm, P.C. can help you prepare for your interview to decrease the risk of delays and increase your chances of approval. Contact us today for a free consultation to get the guidance you need from an experienced New York City immigration attorney.