Congratulations! You are almost there! This isn’t the final stage, but kudos to you for getting this far. Reading this piece shows you’re being positive, and that’s great. You’ve filled out and submitted your visa application document; that’s why you’re invited or waiting to be invited for an interview.
If you’re already invited, that’s excellent, but if you’re still waiting for an invite, don’t panic; instead, you can read more on what to do while waiting. Waiting invites vary for each country. However, getting an invite and preparing for your interview usually takes two to three weeks. Attending and passing a visa interview is crucial, and there are essential steps to help you scale through this stage seamlessly.
How to Plan Ahead of Your Visa Interview
Find below ways you can seamlessly scale through your visa interview:
● Stay safe
In most countries, you can find local criminals around embassies. These criminals might know certain places you might not be familiar with. They can act like a guide to direct you to certain places within the embassy at the cost of a certain amount of cash. Don’t fall for that! Sometimes, that might even require an entry fee. Note that no embassy will ask candidates to pay an entry fee. If you encounter a situation like that, call the attention of security personnel.
Also, ensure you keep your valuables in a safe place. Keeping such items in your pocket can be risky as they might get stolen by these criminals.
● Language
Do not assume you will be interviewed in your indigenous language. Your interview session will usually be done in your country’s official language. If you’re not an advanced speaker of your official language, it’s best to practice ahead. Also, try not to memorize anything.
● Your home country
Most countries, especially the country you’re applying to, see applicants as intending immigrants. You must pass your interview to change the “intending immigrant” status. Do not talk as if you will no longer return to your home country.
There should be things that still bind you to your country, such as investments, family, jobs, etc., something that’ll guarantee your return. For instance, if you’re applying for a student visa, your interviewer might ask for specific intentions like educational objectives, long-range plans, grades, relationships or family, career prospects, and future employment.
You can’t magic your way around this stage, so it’s best to know what you want to do in the future before attending your interview.
● It’s best to be detailed
When asked certain questions during your interview, ensure you give detailed answers. One of the most essential aspects is giving honest and thorough answers to the questions. That way, the officer will have a comprehensive and clear idea of your application.
For instance, if you want to apply to the United States, and the interviewing officer asks where you would like to stay, don’t mention states, be more specific. Mention cities and, if possible, streets. They’ll ask about employment histories, too. Talk about your responsibilities for each position.
Your detailed information/answers will let the interviewing officer know your intention. A more detailed question will most likely follow vague answers, which means your interviewer is unsatisfied with your answers. Also, watch facial expressions. Once you notice that the officer looks confused, re-explain your answer appropriately. Furthermore, don’t be b scared to ask the interviewing officer to explain or repeat a question. It’s crucial to understand questions before answering.
● What about dependents?
If you have dependents (wife and kids especially), explain how they’ll fend for themselves when you’re away. This might be tricky, especially if you are the breadwinner and your significant other has no job or family business. Don’t tell your interviewing officer that you’ll remit money to your family once you get overseas.
Have a plan. Explain to the officer that your family will join you soon and that you have saved enough for their welfare and travels. Also, when it’s time for your family to join you, it’s helpful that they apply at the same location where you did your visa application.
● Be consistent and honest
You don’t have to lie about anything. Also, ensure what you say during the interview aligns with what you filled in your application form. You can’t afford to shoot yourself in the leg. If you give false information, your application will be denied, and it might affect future applications.
● Don’t be late
Be at the interview venue at least thirty minutes before the scheduled time. That way, you’ll show respect for the application process and have time to calm your nerves before the interview.
● Dress appropriately
However, there isn’t a certain dress style to wear for your interview. However, it is advisable to wear conservative clothes because first impressions matter. Appear neat and professional. You shouldn’t be in leather or sweatpants.
Conclusion
Visa interviews are not as rigorous as they seem. Just be calm and use a confident tone to convey your answers. Ensure you review all the details needed for the interview and prepare for as many questions that will be asked before going on.
