What is a Stokes interview?

When you married the love of your life and entered a new lifestyle in California, you might have felt like you were living a dream. After traveling a far distance and saying goodbye to family and friends in another country, you might also have felt nervous and worried about certain legal issues. Adapting to a new lifestyle can be challenging on several levels, including emotionally, financially and, sometimes, legally as well.

The more you know about U.S. immigration law and the better you understand your rights and how to process them, the greater your chances of overcoming any obstacles that might arise. If you are summoned to a Stokes interview, it is definitely a sign that the U.S. government wishes to carefully review your case.

You must prove that your marriage is legitimate

When you receive notice to appear at a Stokes interview, it typically means that something has happened to cause suspicion that your marriage may be fraudulent. Some people marry U.S. citizens in order to become eligible for green cards. If your interviewers suspect this is the case, your legal status may be greatly at risk for removal.

This is one of many reasons it is critical that you understand how important it is to convince your interviewers that your marriage is legitimate. You will have to answer many questions, which may be intensely personal. The impression you create and the answers you and your spouse provide will have a significant impact on the ultimate outcome of your interview.

Types of questions you might answer

The more evidence you can show to prove that your marriage is valid, the better chances you have of passing a Stokes interview. You can show photographs, greeting cards or other correspondence that shows an ongoing, intimate relationship between you and your spouse.

Your interviewer might ask where you and your loved one met. He or she might also ask where you went on your first date or how long you dated before deciding to get married. It is not uncommon for an immigration official to ask personal questions, such as what your spouse eats for breakfast or what color your bedroom happens to be.

What if you don’t know an answer?

It’s never a good idea to try to fool an immigration interviewer. If you don’t know an answer to a specific question, it’s typically best to admit that you don’t know. If you try to guess, the interviewer might think you are lying or are trying to beat the system.

Other things to keep in mind

It is not uncommon for immigration officials to separate spouses during a Stokes interview. They might ask you certain questions, and then ask your spouse the same questions in another room. The interviewers will then compare your answers to see if they align. If not, they have the power to flag your legal status and deny your request for a green card.

If you have nothing to hide, there is a good chance that you will pass your Stokes interview and be able to take the next legal step necessary to apply for permanent residency. As long as you know your rights and where to seek support if a problem arises, you can be confident that you will achieve your goals.