What To Expect At A USCIS Asylum Interview: Tips From A Top Asylum Lawyer
26 July 2025Author: New York Asylum Lawyer Alena Shautsova
If you're applying for asylum in the United States, one of the most important—and often intimidating—steps in the process is the USCIS asylum interview. As a New York-based asylum lawyer with years of experience helping immigrants through this process, I know how overwhelming this day can be. But with the right preparation and understanding of what to expect, you can walk into the interview with confidence and clarity.
In this blog, I’ll explain what to expect at your USCIS asylum interview and how to prepare effectively by reviewing your file, updating your declaration, submitting new evidence, and staying current with changes in immigration law and country conditions.
What Happens at a USCIS Asylum Interview?
Once your Form I-589 (Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal) is filed and accepted by USCIS, you will receive a notice to appear for your asylum interview. These interviews typically take place at the local USCIS Asylum Office and are conducted by an Asylum Officer, not a judge.
Here is what you can expect:
- Check-In & Security Screening: Arrive at least 30 minutes early with your interview notice, valid ID, and any supporting documents. Your attorney and interpreter (if required) can attend with you.
- Introduction: The asylum officer will explain the purpose of the interview and verify your identity and documents.
- Sworn Testimony: You will take an oath to tell the truth. The officer will review your I-589 form and ask you to confirm the details.
- Personal Story: This is the core of your interview. The officer will ask detailed questions about why you’re afraid to return to your home country.
- Clarifications: You may be asked to explain inconsistencies, provide more details, or elaborate on your fears and experiences.
- Closing: The officer will explain the next steps and when to expect a decision.
How to Prepare for the USCIS Asylum Interview
Proper preparation can significantly increase your chances of a successful outcome. Here’s how to get ready—step by step.
1. Review Your Entire File Carefully
Your attorney will go over every document filed with your asylum application. You should read and understand your:
- I-589 form
- Supporting documents
- Country condition evidence
- Declaration (your personal statement)
- Translations
Tip: Pay attention to dates, names, and timelines. Even small inconsistencies can cause problems.
2. Update and Revise Your Declaration
Your declaration is your written story—your testimony on paper. It should be updated to reflect new developments, explain any unclear events, or add details you may have remembered since the initial filing.
Tip: Be honest. Don’t exaggerate or try to "fit a narrative." Authenticity matters more than drama.
3. Submit New Evidence and Country Condition Reports
Country conditions can change quickly, especially in politically unstable regions. Make sure to include:
- Recent news articles or human rights reports
- Affidavits or letters from family or witnesses
- Updated medical or psychological evaluations (especially for trauma)
- Proof of activism, threats, or harm since your initial filing
Tip: Always include certified translations for foreign-language documents.
4. Research Recent Trends in Asylum Law and USCIS Policy
Asylum policies and case law change frequently. Your asylum lawyer should help you understand how recent decisions, memos, or enforcement priorities might affect your case.
For example, certain social groups or political affiliations may be receiving heightened scrutiny, or new guidelines may redefine what constitutes “persecution” or “membership in a particular social group.”
Tip: Knowledge is power. Ask your lawyer to explain how recent changes apply to your situation.
What If You Don’t Speak English?
If you don’t speak English fluently, you must bring an interpreter. USCIS does not provide one. The interpreter must be:
- Over 18 years old
- Fluent in both English and your native language
- Not your attorney, witness, or a representative of your country’s government
What Happens After the Interview?
You may not get a decision the same day. USCIS may take several weeks—or longer—to issue a decision. You’ll receive either:
- A grant of asylum, which means you can apply for a green card after one year
- A referral to Immigration Court, meaning your case will be heard by a judge if USCIS cannot approve your application
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Exaggerating or lying on your declaration
- Failing to bring all documents (especially ID or passport)
- Inconsistencies in your story or timeline
- Not preparing with your asylum lawyer
- Forgetting to bring your interpreter or notice letter
Final Thoughts from a New York Asylum Lawyer
The asylum interview is your chance to tell your story, show your sincerity, and demonstrate why returning to your home country would put you in danger. It's not just about facts—it's about credibility, clarity, and compassion.
At the Law Office of Alena Shautsova, we’ve helped hundreds of clients from all over the world prepare for and succeed at their asylum interviews. We understand how stressful the process can be, and we provide detailed, one-on-one guidance every step of the way.
Ready to Prepare for Your Asylum Interview?
Book a confidential consultation today.
Let us help you build a strong, persuasive, and honest case for protection in the United States.
Call 917 885 2261.
Email: office@shautsova.com