A recent alert from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services signals a key change in how green card interviews will be conducted. The update affects applicants who rely on legal support. It introduces stricter rules around lawyer participation during interviews.
From May 18, 2026, USCIS will not allow lawyers to join interviews over the phone in most cases. Legal representatives must be physically present to assist applicants. This marks a shift from earlier flexibility in remote participation.
The rule applies to major processes such as I-130 and I-485 interviews. It has been updated on the official Field Offices page. The change also covers asylum interviews and other immigration benefit-related meetings conducted at these offices.
Immigration experts shared updates on social media, raising awareness among applicants. Many expressed concern over the removal of remote legal support. However, lawyers are not completely barred, as they can still attend interviews in person.
Applicants may now need to hire local lawyers or arrange travel for their existing legal representatives. This could increase costs and logistical challenges. Indian families waiting in long green card queues may feel the impact more strongly.
Those already working with remote lawyers might have to reconsider their legal arrangements. Some may attend interviews without legal support, which adds to anxiety. Reports of arrests during interviews in past cases have also heightened concerns.
USCIS has recently increased scrutiny and strengthened background checks. These measures aim to tighten the immigration process. However, they also reduce convenience for applicants preparing for interviews.
Applicants scheduled for green card interviews will need to prepare more carefully. Proper documentation and legal readiness are now more important. The new rules make in-person support a key part of the process.
