How to pass an interview for a visa to the United States?

The process of obtaining a U.S. visa may seem complex and nerve-wracking, especially if you have to attend an interview at a consulate or embassy. Preparing for the interview requires a thorough approach, attention to detail, and an understanding of what to expect.

Preparation of Required Documents

The first and most important step is preparing all the necessary documents. The list of documents may vary depending on the type of visa, but the main ones include:

1. Form DS-160. This is an application form that must be completed online. After completing the form, you will receive a confirmation with a unique barcode, which must be printed and brought to the interview.
2. Passport. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into the United States.
3. Photograph. Photo requirements can be found on the consulate’s website. Typically, this is a color photo measuring 2×2 inches, taken no more than six months ago.
4. Proof of payment of the consular fee. Receipt of payment for the visa application fee.
5. Interview appointment confirmation. A printout of the appointment confirmation, indicating the date and time of your interview.
6. Documents confirming the purpose of the trip. Depending on the type of visa, these may include invitations from educational institutions, employers, conference programs, and so on.
7. Financial documents. Bank statements, income documents, sponsorship letters, and other documents proving your financial solvency.
8. Documents proving ties to your home country. These may include property ownership certificates, employment letters, and family documents.

What Additional Documents Are Required for an Immigrant Visa

To obtain an immigrant visa to the United States, in addition to the main documents, additional documents are required to confirm your status and eligibility for a specific type of immigrant visa. Let’s consider the additional documents for the main categories of immigrant visas:

Family-Based Visa (IR, F)

Additional documents:

1. Documents proving family relationships:
   • Birth certificates.
   • Marriage or divorce certificates (if applicable).
   • Adoption documents (if applicable).
   • Proof of the sponsor’s legal status in the U.S. (green card, citizenship).
2. Affidavit of Support (Form I-864):
   • Documents proving the sponsor’s income (tax returns, employment letters).
3. Proof of financial solvency:
   • Bank statements.
   • Property ownership documents.
4. Medical examination:
   • Certificate of medical examination by an accredited physician.
5. Police clearance certificate:
   • Documents proving no criminal record (police certificates).

Employment-Based Visa (EB)

Additional documents:

1. Approved petition (Form I-140)
   • Notice of approval from USCIS.
2. Letter from employer:
   • Confirmation of job offer.
   • Description of position, working conditions, and salary.
3. Documents proving qualifications:
   • Diplomas, certificates, licenses.
   • References from previous employers.
4. Proof of work experience:
   • Employment record book.
   • Resume.
5. Medical examination:
   • Certificate of medical examination.
6. Police clearance certificate:
   • Documents proving no criminal record.

Investment-Based Visa (EB-5)

Additional documents:

1. Approved petition (Form I-526):
   • Notice of approval from USCIS.
2. Proof of investment:
   • Documents proving the amount and source of investment.
   • Contracts and financial statements.
3. Business plan:
   • Detailed business plan of the investment project.
4. Documents proving job creation:
   • Documents proving that the investment will create or preserve 10 jobs for U.S. citizens.
5. Medical examination:
   • Certificate of medical examination.
6. Police clearance certificate:
   • Documents proving no criminal record.

Diversity Visa Lottery (DV)

Additional documents:

1. Confirmation of lottery win:
   • Notification of winning.
2. Documents on education and employment:
   • Certificates and diplomas.
   • Employment record book.
3. Medical examination:
   • Certificate of medical examination.
4. Police clearance certificate:
   • Documents proving no criminal record.
5. Proof of financial solvency:
   • Bank statements, sponsorship letters.

What Not to Discuss During the Interview

Attending a visa interview for the United States is an important and responsible step that requires not only the preparation of necessary documents but also the ability to answer the consular officer’s questions correctly. How you conduct yourself during the interview and what you say can significantly impact the decision to issue a visa. In this article, we will discuss what not to say during the interview and which topics to avoid.

The key is to be confident, calm, and honest while carefully choosing your words and avoiding unnecessary topics.

Avoid Mentioning Potential Immigration Intentions

One of the main tasks of the consular officer is to ensure that you do not intend to remain in the U.S. illegally. Therefore:

1. Do not discuss plans to stay in the U.S. permanently. Even if you have such thoughts, you should clearly state your intention to return home after your trip.
2. Avoid discussing possible paths to obtaining permanent resident status. Such topics may raise suspicions about your true intentions.

Do Not Mention Financial Difficulties

The consular officer must be assured that you have sufficient funds to cover all expenses during your stay in the U.S. Therefore:

1. Do not discuss your financial problems or debts. This may create the impression that you intend to seek employment in the U.S. to resolve your financial issues.
2. Avoid discussing plans to earn money in the U.S. Even if you plan to work legally on a work visa, it is better to focus on the purpose of your trip and your current financial capabilities.

Refrain from Criticizing the U.S. and Its Policies

A positive attitude towards the country you are planning to visit is important for successfully obtaining a visa. Therefore:

1. Do not criticize the U.S. government, its policies, or culture. This may create a negative impression with the consular officer.
2. Avoid discussing controversial political topics. Such discussions may create a tense atmosphere and affect the outcome of the interview.

Do Not Discuss Plans for Illegal Employment

Working without the appropriate authorization is a serious violation of visa regulations. Therefore:

1. Do not mention intentions to work without authorization. This will immediately lead to a visa denial.
2. Avoid any hints of possible illegal employment. Even if you know people who have done so, it is better not to mention it.

Do Not Share Excessive Personal Information

Information unrelated to your trip may raise unnecessary questions and suspicions. Therefore:

1. Do not discuss your personal problems. Such stories may create the impression that you are seeking to leave your country for reasons other than those stated in your application.
2. Avoid discussing family conflicts or other personal difficulties. This may be perceived as an attempt to seek refuge in the U.S.

Refrain from Mentioning Legal Issues

The consular officer must be assured of your reliability. Therefore:

1. Do not discuss past offenses unless asked. If asked, answer honestly but briefly and to the point.
2. Avoid discussing legal proceedings or administrative offenses. Such topics may raise doubts about your reliability.

Preparing for a U.S. visa interview requires not only gathering all necessary documents but also carefully considering what to say and what to avoid. By avoiding mentions of potential immigration intentions, financial difficulties, criticism of the U.S., plans for illegal work, personal problems, and past offenses, you significantly increase your chances of obtaining a visa. The key is to be confident, calm, and honest while carefully choosing your words and avoiding unnecessary topics. Good luck with your visa application and successful interview!