VAWA I-360 is Approved. Now USCIS Wants I-485 Green Card Interview. Should You Worry?
You survived the abuse, gathered the evidence, and waited months (or years) for the good news that your I-360 VAWA, Violence Against Women Act, petition was approved. Then, USCIS sends another letter. You must go to a green card interview. Will you be arrested? Why do some VAWA applicants have their interviews canceled? Here’s what you need to know:
What Will USCIS Ask at Interview?
The good news is that your approved VAWA I-360 means the harder part is over. Your I-485 green card interview focuses on whether you deserve to remain in the country. Expect questions such as:
- Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime, or convicted?
- Have you ever lied to an immigration officer or used false documents?
- Have you ever been deported or ordered removed?
- Have you worked without authorization?
- Have you entered the United States without permission?
- Have you remarried since your VAWA petition was approved?
Some people answer yes to some of these questions and still get a green card. Some people answer yes and get denied. They could also ask about your marriage to an abusive spouse – such as dates you lived together. To prepare for the interview, hire the best VAWA I-360 attorney you can afford to help you.
Will VAWA Applicants Be Arrested at Interview?
This is the question frightening many immigrants. ICE, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, has arrested people attending USCIS green card interviews. However, that does not mean VAWA applicants are routinely being arrested.
An approved VAWA petition does not automatically protect someone from immigration detention. Applicants with outstanding deportation orders, certain criminal histories, or unresolved immigration violations should definitely hire an experienced VAWA attorney.
Why Are Some I-485 Interviews Cancelled?
USCIS may cancel interviews because:
- The officer determines an interview is unnecessary.
- Your file needs additional review.
- Background or security checks remain pending.
- The field office has scheduling or staffing problems.
- Your case must be transferred or rescheduled.
Does cancellation mean approval? No.
Does cancellation mean denial? Also no.
Sometimes USCIS approves an I-485 without an interview. Other times, it schedules another appointment. Don’t assume that an approved VAWA I-360 guarantees a green card. It does not. Although the approval was a major victory, don’t risk this final step on poor preparation.
If your family needs the best VAWA attorney to create a safe haven in the United States, call 954.385.0157 or click “For Future Clients” today to schedule a chat. We give our VAWA I-360 clients all the tips and tricks we have learned in almost 25 years of practicing immigration law. Like this post and click “For Future Clients” if you have an immigration question you want answered.
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Disclaimer – These entries are based on real life events. Family member names, when used, are real. Client names are changed for privacy.
