Visa Interview Advice from a Former U.S. Visa Officer
Documents: Have a large number of documents prepared for the interview but don’t touch any of them unless asked for one by the Visa Officer. Choose a document that best demonstrates your ties to your home country and place that document on the top of the pile. The officer may not ask for any documents but he/she will notice the document on top. Also, if any of your relatives have a visa, bring a photocopy.
Indicators of Wealth: Visa Officers pay attention to everything about you to help make their decision. Make sure you are demonstrating anything about you that signals your wealth. For example, have your car keys on top of your document pile, wear an expensive watch, make sure there is no dirt under your fingernails, wear a shirt that has an expensive logo, or, if your child wears braces, bring him/her to the interview.
“Hail Mary” Statement: At the end of the interview, there will be a pause while the Visa Officer writes notes. If something important about your ties to your home country didn’t come up, politely say to the Officer 'May I tell you one more thing?’ They may ask you to wait a moment and then will ask you to speak. Use this opportunity to highlight the important piece of information.
Speak English: If you speak English well, conduct the interview in English rather than a local language. This is an easy way to signal to the officer that your family was able to afford a high quality education.
Negative Statements: Don´t be afraid to say something mildly derogatory. If you are willing to say something negative, the Consular Officer will see that you are honest and trust you more.
Timing: Try to go early in the morning when the Visa Officer isn’t hungry or tired. Sometimes a Visa Officer’s mood can affect their decision.
Congressionals: If you have a U.S. contact, you can have them write to their Congressperson and ask for help with your visa application. The Congressperson will write to the U.S. Embassy.
Practice, Practice, Practice: If you are denied at the first interview, it is very difficult to be approved visas in the future. Make sure you get it right the first time by practicing with a professional.