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Q: Should the petitioner be present for the immigrant visa interview?
The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy recommends that the petitioner be present for the initial visa interview, especially in marriage and fiancé based cases. It is very important for the consular officer to be able to verify the legitimacy of the relationship between the petitioner and the beneficiary (applicant). The most practical way for the consular officer to do this is to have both individuals present to answer questions.
In addition, many times the consular officer will have additional questions to clarify the financial documentation that the petitioner provides. Again, the presence of the petitioner at the interview can provide clarity and even expedite the case. In the majority of stepchild relationship cases, it may also be advantageous to have both the step and biological parents present to answer any questions that the officer may have.
Q: What if the petitioner is cannot be present for the initial interview?
If the petitioner cannot be present for the immigration interview, the consular officer will attempt to make a determination of eligibility based on the information provided by the applicant. At the time of the interview, the applicant is encouraged to present any additional evidence of the relationship that can help establish its legitimacy.
If the applicant does not have sufficient proof of the relationship, the consular officer may suggest that the petitioner and the beneficiary arrange a joint interview at the Embassy. In order to arrange a joint interview, the applicant can contact the Embassy to make an appointment at the following email address: visageorge@state.gov
Currently, there is a wait of several months for the next available joint interview appointments. Therefore, the petitioner should not make any travel arrangements until an appointment has been scheduled. However, if the petitioner happens to be in Guyana for a visit, he or she may call the visas inquiry line (592-225-7965 or 592-225-7966, Monday through Friday 8:00am – 4:00 pm) and inform the Embassy of his/her presence in country. The Embassy will do its best to try and accommodate the visitor and may be able to schedule the joint interview at that time. We cannot guarantee these appointments, but the petitioner is welcomed to call us and see if anything is available.
Q: Is the Petitioner expected to return for any subsequent interviews?
It is not normally necessary for the petitioner to be present at subsequent interviews if he or she was present at the first interview. However, the consular officer may, in some cases, need to see the petitioner a second time. Petitioners as well as applicants should be prepared for this possibility.
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