When you have finally received word that your visa application is being processed you can’t help but be relieved, but along with that relief and excitement comes the fear and uncertainty of facing the visa interview. While it is natural to be intimidated by the process, it is important to remember that the officer conducting the interview only wants to make sure that everything is honest and genuine in your application. To make the process more comfortable and less nerve wracking, here are some things (such as taking a UK Immigration Lawyer with you), to consider doing, as well as a few things that you must avoid:
Do fully prepare for the meeting. In your communication with immigration offices, you will be asked to bring certain documents and forms with you to the interview. Be sure to gather them all together in an organized folder. Try to familiarize yourself with the information contained in the documents in order to answer the officer’s questions. Should you give a different answer to a question than the answer that is contained in your application, it could make you look suspicious. Read and re-read your application before the interview.
Do arrive on time for the interview. You have probably already waited quite a while for this appointment and being late could result in the appointment being rescheduled.
Do dress appropriately for the interview and present a neat and tidy appearance. Making a good first impression is always important. Try to be as confident and as positive as you can.
Do follow all of the officer’s directions willingly, stay focused on, and answer succinctly only the questions asked of you.
Don’t hesitate to ask the officer to repeat any questions that you don’t understand.
Do feel comfortable bringing an interpreter with you if you feel your English is not adequate to complete the interview.
Do try to remain calm and relaxed. Getting flustered may result in you being unable to answer simple, routine questions.
Do be honest in your answers. If you can’t answer a question, it is better to admit that you don’t know than to make something up that could later cause you problems.
Don’t make joking or sarcastic remarks about any illegal activities that you may be asked about.
Do ask a UK immigration lawyer to accompany you if you are just too uncertain of the proceedings to attend on your own.
Don’t argue with the officer. In the event that a part of your application is said to be incomplete, simply try to pleasantly correct the omission by using the documents and forms you have brought with you.
Don’t refuse to answer any of the officer’s questions. While they may seem unrelated or irrelevant to you, the officer has a reason for asking them, and your refusal to answer could unnecessarily raise suspicion. If you don’t know or can’t remember details, it is quite acceptable to refer to your documents for verification.
Attending your interview with a positive attitude is of utmost importance. Keep your objectives clearly in your mind, and you won’t forget the reason for it all.
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Please note that these articles and the information contained herein are purely for general guidance and do not constitute a professional legal or any other opinion as to the merits of a particular application or whether specific immigration requirements have been met of a particular category. This information is generic and should not be relied upon as a definitive guide to fulfilling specific category requirements. However should any individual do so it is at his or her own risk for which UK Migration Lawyers Limited cannot be held responsible in any way.
