Question details
May a third party (spouse, sponsor, etc.) accompany an applicant to an interview for a Nonimmigrant or Immigrant Visa?
ANSWER
The State Department says that on the Immigrant Visa side, the petitioner may accompany the beneficiary if the petitioner is in the Consulate city at the time of the interview. The interviewing officer will speak to the petitioner only if he/she determines it is necessary to assess the case. Applicants under 17 years old MUST be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian on the Nonimmigrant Visa side. Other third parties are not permitted to accompany the Nonimmigrant Visa applicant.