Key Points
- USCIS has extended a temporary final rule through September 12, 2023, requiring a USCIS interpreter at specific asylum interviews
- Applicants must use a USCIS interpreter unless they have unique circumstances
- USCIS may allow individuals to bring an interpreter if a USCIS interpreter is not available
Overview
US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has extended a temporary final rule (TFR) that requires the use of a telephonic USCIS interpreter at individual asylum interviews.
USCIS has extended the TFR through September 12, 2023. While the rule remains in effect, applicants must use a USCIS interpreter. Collectively, USCIS interpreters speak 47 languages. Applicants who cannot find an interpreter who speaks their language must bring their own interpreter to the interview. In cases where a USCIS interpreter is unavailable, USCIS may reschedule the interview or let the applicant bring an interpreter.
Looking Ahead
When the rule expires, individuals who cannot complete their affirmative asylum interview in English must use their own interpreters.
Written by: Lucy Halse, Content Marketing Associate, Envoy Global
Edited by: Dmitri Pikman, Supervising Attorney, Corporate Immigration Partners
Source: US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
