Basics

• Most applicants will need to attend the interview with their petitioner. For example, if a U.S. citizen husband is petitioning for his wife, then both the husband and wife must attend the AOS interview. Exceptions include refugees, asylees and Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) applicants. Although a dress code is not in place, wear appropriate clothing, such as what you would wear for an office job interview. Avoid taking children who do not have an interview scheduled, especially as the waiting rooms are usually packed.
  
  

Petitions

• Before the interview takes place, your USCIS petition has been scrutinized, you have been fingerprinted and USCIS has checked your background. Unless issues arise based on fraudulent answers or petitions, you should breeze through the AOS interview. Bring necessary documents listed on your interview notice. If you needed a co-sponsor, that person does not need to attend the AOS interview.
  
  

Considerations

• You will receive a notice in the mail that informs you of the interview time and location. If you have not received your interview notice, check the status through the USCIS website to find out if it has been mailed. Update USCIS if you change your address. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your interview. USCIS conducts interviews all day. There is a very slim chance that you will be called on time, let alone early, so do not arrive 45 minutes or an hour before your interview.