Preparing for an Asylum Interview? Plan for In-Person Representation
An asylum interview gives an applicant an opportunity to explain the claim, address the record and answer questions from USCIS. Effective May 18, 2026, USCIS says attorneys and accredited representatives generally may no longer participate remotely in field-office, affirmative-asylum and NACARA 203 interviews, except in limited circumstances.
CTA: If an interview notice arrived—or your case may soon be scheduled—request an immigration consultation to review preparation and representation options.
Key takeaways
- Counsel generally must be physically present to participate.
- The update reaches affirmative-asylum and NACARA 203 interviews.
- Limited exceptions may exist but should not be assumed.
- Applicants should verify the exact office, time and instructions.
- Preparation should begin well before the interview date.
What changed
USCIS previously maintained a process under which counsel could elect telephone participation in certain interviews. Its current asylum-office alert says remote participation generally ended on May 18, 2026.
The change does not require every applicant to retain counsel. It does mean that represented applicants and their attorneys should coordinate physical attendance early rather than expecting a telephone connection.
Interview preparation checklist
| Item | Confirm |
|---|---|
| Appointment notice | Date, time, address and case number |
| Counsel | G-28 and in-person availability |
| Identification | Originals requested by USCIS |
| Filed application | Complete I-589 and attachments |
| New evidence | Relevant records and translations |
| Interpreter | Current USCIS instructions |
Practical preparation
Review the actual filing
Read the submitted I-589, declarations and exhibits. Discuss inaccuracies or needed clarification with counsel. Preparation should improve accuracy, not create a memorized script.
Organize updates
Arrange new evidence chronologically and ask counsel what is relevant. More paper is not automatically better evidence.
Plan the trip
Confirm the office and check USCIS closure alerts before leaving. Allow time for traffic, parking, security and check-in.
Frequently asked questions
May my attorney appear by telephone?
USCIS says remote participation is no longer generally available after May 18, 2026, except in limited circumstances.
May I attend without an attorney?
Representation is not mandatory. Whether counsel is appropriate depends on the facts and complexity of the case.
Does this apply to affirmative-asylum interviews?
Yes. The USCIS alert expressly includes affirmative-asylum and NACARA 203 interviews.
Should I bring my I-589?
Applicants should retain and review a complete copy of the filing and follow their appointment notice.
What if counsel cannot attend?
Contact counsel promptly. Do not miss the interview or seek a scheduling change without understanding the consequences.
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For informational purposes only. This content is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship.