Charlotte Asylum Interviews

The interview is one of the most essential parts of the asylum process. It is your first real opportunity to show the government why you deserve asylum, and many applicants are nervous about it. Knowing what to expect can help you avoid surprises and make you more comfortable during your interview.

While it is not necessary to have an attorney present for Charlotte asylum interviews, it is a good idea. Our lawyers could help you with every step of the process—reviewing your application, gathering documents, practicing answers, and making sure you are comfortable with the interview process.

The Role of Preparation

Preparation plays a critical role in a successful interview for asylum in Charlotte. You will need to carefully fill out Form I-589, Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal, but language barriers can make this difficult. This is one reason you should get help from a lawyer. Filling out this form correctly, and knowing the answers on the form so you can reinforce them at your interview, are vital. Many mistakes in the interview process are due to miscommunication rather than asylees being purposefully misleading.

A perfect application needs documentation and proof. You should supply your original identity documents, birth certificate, marriage certificate, and other records. If originals are not available, you should supply other forms of documentation that can back up your claims. Obtaining these documents may be impossible for some asylees. Your attorney could discuss which alternative types of proof may be acceptable.

Understanding the whole asylum process is essential. To seek asylum, you must be afraid to return to your home country. During the interview, you should be prepared to describe the details of your situation, the reasons that you are scared to go home, and evidence proving that those fears are reasonable.

The Interview Process

While the interview can be stressful, you can do several things to reduce your anxiety. Preparation starts before you leave for the appointment. Make sure your clothing is neat, clean, and respectful. You should be freshly showered and clean. Though you may want to wear fragranced products, some people are susceptible to smells. We suggest avoiding heavily perfumed products and cologne.

One of the most important things you can do is get to the interview early. Verify the location beforehand and plan on being there at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time. If your appointment is during a high-traffic period, plan to arrive an hour early.

Be prepared to go through a security check. You cannot bring any type of weapon into the building, including guns, knives, and self-defense items such as pepper spray, tasers, and specialized key chains. If you have any question about whether an item is prohibited, leave it at home.

Miscommunication is a considerable risk during these interviews, but asylees in Charlotte have the right to an interpreter. If you need an interpreter, check beforehand to ensure someone is available for you, particularly if your native language is not commonly spoken in the United States.

If you do not understand a question, ask for clarification before answering it. Otherwise, answer every question, even if you think the answer makes you look bad. The examiners are looking for information and honesty. Refusing to answer the question will not keep them from obtaining that information.

It is okay to show emotion; you may discuss difficult, scary, or otherwise highly emotional details or facts. However, while it is okay to cry, it is not okay to beg. The decision-makers use facts to decide whether to grant asylum, and begging will only make them uncomfortable.

Speak to an Attorney About Asylum Interviews in Charlotte

While the process of Charlotte asylum interviews can be intimidating, knowing what to expect can make it easier. Our attorneys could educate you about the process and ensure you are ready. Schedule a consultation to begin preparing for your interview.