Although USCIS allows a bilingual person to act as an interpreter, speaking two languages is not enough. It is essential to have someone with experience in asylum interviews and knowledge of terminology related to protection claims to ensure information is communicated accurately and without modifications or embellishments.

If the applicant does not speak English fluently, they must attend the asylum interview accompanied by an interpreter. USCIS generally does not provide this service, so it is the applicant’s responsibility to bring someone capable of accurately interpreting between their language and English throughout the interview.

Yes. Under federal regulations (Sections 208.9(g) and 208.10), if you do not speak English, you are required to provide a competent interpreter. Failure to comply without good cause may legally be considered a failure to appear. This could result in dismissal of your asylum application or waiver of your right to the interview.

Disclaimer: This information is publicly available and is shared for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice.

Federal law does not establish a fixed list of questions. The officer does not follow a predetermined script but instead conducts the interview according to the specific circumstances of the applicant’s case.

Under 8 CFR §208.9(b), the purpose of the interview is to obtain all relevant information necessary to determine whether the applicant qualifies for asylum. This includes confirming identity and exploring in detail the facts supporting the application.

No. The interpreter should not provide advice or suggest answers. Their role is solely to accurately transmit what you and the officers speak during the interview, without adding, omitting, or modifying the information.

It is important to understand that communication through an interpreter follows a structured process. Each response should be clear, coherent, and well organized. The interpreter does not need to know the case in detail but must be familiar with the interview process and maintain accurate, complete, and neutral interpretation at all times.

USCIS requires that the interpreter must not influence the responses nor intervene in the content of the testimony.

Selecting an interpreter should not be based solely on bilingual ability.

A good interpreter should:
• Have complete command of both languages.
• Understand immigration terminology.
• Have USCIS interview experience, especially asylum cases.
• Maintain faithful interpretation without omissions or alterations.
• Respect the pace of the interview.
• Remain completely neutral.

Specialized interpretation services exist for immigration proceedings. However, not all interpreters are familiar with the dynamics of a USCIS interview, especially asylum interviews where precision is essential.

USCIS requires that interpreters be fluent in both languages and that the interpretation be complete, accurate, and without omissions or additions. Therefore, it is advisable to work with a professional that has actual experience with USCIS interviews and knowledge of immigration terminology.

Costs vary depending on experience, complexity, and duration. Because interviews have a scheduled arrival time but not a fixed duration, many interpreters charge by the session rather than by the hour.

We are available throughout Florida, including asylum offices in Tampa, Jacksonville, and Miami, as well as USCIS Field Offices in Orlando and Tampa and South Florida.

6680 Corporate Center Blvd. Orlando, Fl 32822

3924 Coconut Palm Dr. Tampa, Fl 33619

4121 Southpoint Blvd. Jacksonville, Fl 32216 y

1501 Biscayne Blvd Miami, Fl 33132

5629 Hoover Blvd. Tampa, Fl 33634

and more!

Yes. Through our years of work in Immigration Courts, we have built a network of professional interpreters, including indigenous-language and sign-language interpreters.

Contact us for a recommendation.

Yes. Through our professional network, we can help locate interpreters for indigenous languages. Please tell us the language and community of origin to ensure that you will have the exact interpreter for your needs.

We are also available for family law hearings, civil cases, employment matters, business meetings, and legal depositions; either remotely or in person.

Because hearings, meetings and depositions may not begin at a precise time and their duration is uncertain, interpreters generally work with minimum session requirements, plus additional fees for extended time and travel when applicable.

Please contact us for an exact quote for your assignment.