Is it common for USCIS to request an interview at the local Field Office?

Generally, no. In EB-2 NIW cases, the process typically revolves around documentary review and an evaluation of the applicant’s merit, so in-person interviews at the local Field Office tend to be less common in this category.

This is because the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) does not require a job offer tied to a specific employer and places the decision on evidence showing that the applicant’s work brings meaningful benefit to the United States. With the focus on documentation, many cases proceed without an interview.

That said, nothing is automatic. If there are doubts, gaps, or significant inconsistencies in the documents or in how the case was presented, USCIS may decide to schedule an interview to clarify specific points. This decision is made on a case-by-case basis by the reviewing officers.

Because immigration practices and policies can change over time, the best approach is to keep documentation complete and consistent and to verify the latest USCIS guidance, or speak with a specialist, to know what to expect in your specific case.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.