What is the primary purpose of conducting an immigration interview?

The primary purpose of conducting an immigration interview is to verify information and assess eligibility. During the interview, the immigration officer has the opportunity to ask questions that clarify and confirm the information provided in the application. This includes evaluating the applicant's background, their reasons for seeking immigration benefits, and their compliance with U.S. immigration laws.

These interviews are crucial for ensuring that applicants meet all necessary criteria for the specific immigration benefit they are requesting, such as a visa or permanent residency. By engaging with the applicant directly, officers can gauge the credibility of the information shared and identify any potential discrepancies, ultimately helping to uphold the integrity of the immigration process.

While gathering additional documentation may sometimes be part of the interview process, it is not the primary reason for conducting it. Similarly, determining the applicant's country of origin or providing legal advice are not core functions of the interview. The focus is primarily on confirming eligibility rather than offering legal guidance or establishing geographic details.