Changes in requirements for USCIS interpreters

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services has changed the policy on the use of interpreters for immigration interviews in USCIS field offices. Beginning on May 1, 2017, the USCIS will alter the requirements of an interpreter and the person attending the interview will need to submit a Declaration for Interpreted USCIS Interview at the time of the appointment.  This change in policy applies to the majority of USCIS interviews except for those related to asylum, credible fear screening, reasonable fear screening, refugees, overseas interviews, and those that are in an interview to see whether the person is eligible for the Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act.

USCIS officers require these interpreters to be fluent in English as well as the interviewee’s fluent language. In addition, they must be able to interpret between the two languages in an impartial manner. In order to determine competency in both languages, the interpreter must be able to accurately give a description of the entire interview. This change in policy applies to the majority of USCIS interviews except for those related to asylum, credible fear screening, reasonable fear screening, refugees, overseas interviews, and those that are in an interview to see whether the person is eligible for the Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act.

It is important to be aware that witnesses for the immigration interview are not permitted to serve as interpreters unless there is an exception for “good cause,” such as there being a rare language, a remote area with no access to a qualified interpreter, or a prejudicial delay. These exceptions are looked at on a case by case basis so it is important to ask about your situation.

If you are in need of experienced legal counsel for matters regarding immigration, please contact the Law Offices of Salvatore A. Falletta, LLC and we would be happy to provide you with assistance.