Before the COVID-19 pandemic, it was standard procedure for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to schedule in-person interviews for most couples applying for an Adjustment of Status (AOS). These interviews, which are part of the process for obtaining a Green Card, were an essential step for verifying the authenticity of the marital relationship and ensuring that all the documentation was in order. For many couples, this meant preparing for a formal interview at their local USCIS field office, answering questions about their relationship, and presenting evidence as requested.

However, since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, USCIS policies have undergone significant changes, particularly in how interviews are scheduled for AOS applicants. The pandemic led to a series of disruptions in operations, including temporary office closures, social distancing protocols, and a shift to remote processing for many applications. As a result, the frequency of in-person interviews for couples seeking Green Cards has dramatically decreased.

In our office, we’ve noticed a distinct drop in the number of couples who are scheduled for in-person interviews. Before the pandemic, it was not unusual for a couple to be scheduled for an interview within a few months of filing their AOS application. However, in the years following the pandemic, we’ve only had about a handful number of clients who were actually called in for a USCIS interview, a drastic contrast to what we had seen before the pandemic.

This shift has raised concerns for many applicants, as interviews were once seen as a necessary step in the process that could affect the outcome of their case. While USCIS has provided some clarity on the matter, stating that interviews are still being waived for many applicants under certain circumstances, the decision to waive an interview depends on factors such as the applicant’s eligibility, the quality of the submitted evidence, and the discretion of the USCIS officer handling the case.

While the reduction in in-person interviews may speed up processing times for some, it also creates uncertainty for applicants who are left wondering when—or if—they will be asked to attend an interview. The changes have made it more important than ever to ensure that every piece of documentation submitted is complete and accurate, as USCIS may rely heavily on the paperwork alone to make a decision in many cases.

As the pandemic's effects continue to reverberate through the immigration system, couples seeking Green Cards may need to adjust their expectations and remain patient as the future of the interview process continues to evolve. Do you want to learn more about these interview waivers or the AOS process, call our office at (915) 314-2363 to schedule a consultation today!