You’ve made it through the green card interview—a major milestone in the U.S. immigration process. But what happens next? Whether you’re adjusting status in the U.S. or attending a consular interview abroad, the steps after your interview can be just as important as everything that came before.
This guide walks you through what to expect after your green card interview, how to track your case, and what you can do if you don’t hear back promptly.
Immediate Outcomes at the Interview
At the end of the interview, the officer may:
- Approve your case on the spot
- Tell you a decision will be mailed
- Request more documents (RFE)
- Issue a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID) in rare cases
It’s common for applicants to leave without a final answer. Don’t worry—USCIS or the consulate often needs time to complete internal checks before finalizing.
USCIS Applicants: What Happens Next?
If your green card interview was held in the U.S. (via Form I-485), here’s the typical sequence of events:
1. Case Status Update
You may see a status change online at my.uscis.gov:
- “Interview Was Completed and My Case Must Be Reviewed”
- “New Card Is Being Produced” (approval)
- “Request for Evidence Was Sent” (more info needed)
Check the portal once a week, and sign up for case alerts via email or SMS.
2. Approval and Card Production
If approved, your status will update to:
- “Case Approved”, followed by
- “Card Was Mailed to Me”
Your green card should arrive within 7–15 business days of approval. You’ll also receive an official approval notice (Form I-797).
3. In Case of Delays
If it’s been more than 60 days since your interview and you’ve had no update, you can:
- Call USCIS at 1-800-375-5283
- Submit a case inquiry online
- Schedule an InfoPass appointment if necessary
Consular Processing Applicants: What to Expect
If your interview was abroad at a U.S. consulate:
1. Visa Issuance or Administrative Processing
After the interview, the consular officer will either:
- Approve your visa and keep your passport for visa stamping
- Put your case in “Administrative Processing”, often due to security checks
- Request more documents
2. Passport Return Timeline
Once approved, you’ll typically get your passport back with the immigrant visa within 7–10 days. Along with it, you’ll receive a sealed immigrant packet for entry to the U.S.
Important: Do not open the sealed packet. It must be handed to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer when you arrive.
3. Receiving Your Physical Green Card
After you enter the U.S. with your immigrant visa:
- USCIS will mail your green card to your U.S. address within 30–60 days
- If you haven’t paid the USCIS Immigrant Fee, do it online before entering the U.S.
If You Receive a Request for Evidence (RFE)
Sometimes, the officer may need:
- Updated medical exams
- Additional proof of relationship or financial support
- Translated or certified documents
You’ll receive a letter specifying what’s needed and a deadline (usually 87 days). Respond quickly to avoid denial.
What If Your Case Is Denied?
Denials post-interview are rare but possible. USCIS or the consulate will send a written explanation with options, which may include:
- Filing a motion to reopen or reconsider
- Appealing to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO)
- Refiling your application
- Seeking legal counsel
Green Card Delivery Tips
- Update your address: If you move after the interview, file a change of address with USCIS immediately
- Track your mail: USCIS uses USPS; sign up for Informed Delivery to track it
- Report missing cards: If not received in 30 days after the status says “mailed,” call USCIS or submit Form I-90 to replace it
Statistics and Wait Times
- Average green card delivery time after approval: 7–15 business days
- 2024 average I-485 approval rate after interview: 83%
- Common delay reasons: background checks, missing documents, change of address issues
(Source: USCIS Data)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to get my green card after the interview?
Usually within 2 weeks, but delays of 30–60 days are not unusual.
2. Can I work after the interview?
Only if you already have a valid work permit (EAD) or your green card has been approved.
3. What if I forgot to bring something to the interview?
You may receive an RFE or the officer may allow you to submit it within a specific time frame.
4. What does “Case Must Be Reviewed” mean?
This means the officer completed the interview but needs to review documentation or get supervisor sign-off before approving.
5. Can I travel while waiting for my green card after the interview?
Only if you have valid advance parole (Form I-131). Otherwise, leaving the U.S. may abandon your application.
Final Thoughts
After your green card interview, patience and attention to detail are key. Most applicants receive approval soon after—but you still need to monitor your case, respond to any follow-ups, and prepare for the final steps.
Getting this far is a big deal. Stay alert, stay organized, and you’ll soon be holding your green card in hand.
