08/23/2025
📢 Zomi Research Institute Community Alert
USCIS Ends Free Interpreter Services – Effective September 28, 2025
🛑 What’s Changing?
USCIS will no longer provide interpreters for immigration interviews (green cards, asylum, citizenship).
👉 Applicants must bring their own interpreter starting Sept 28, 2025.
📖 Official Source: USCIS Facebook Announcement
✅ Interpreter Rules
Must be fluent in English + your language (Zomi, etc.)
Must be 18 years or older
Cannot be your lawyer, witness, or anyone biased
Must bring a photo ID
Must sign Form G-1256 at the interview with you
📖 Learn more: USCIS Form G-1256
🇺🇸 Citizenship (Naturalization) Exceptions
You may bring an interpreter only if you qualify for English exemptions:
👴 50/20 Rule – Age 50+, 20 years as a permanent resident
👵 55/15 Rule – Age 55+, 15 years as a permanent resident
🎓 65/20 Rule – Age 65+, 20 years as a permanent resident (simplified civics test)
🏥 N-648 Disability Waiver – Medical proof you cannot learn English/civics
📖 Source: USCIS – Naturalization Exceptions
⚠️ Why This Matters for Zomi Families
Zomi interpreters are hard to find outside Tulsa, Indianapolis, Louisville
Interpreters cost $50–$150/hour
Small mistakes in translation can cause delays or denials
📖 Real-Life Scenarios
❌ A Zomi father brings his 17-year-old son → rejected (must be 18+), interview delayed 4 months
❌ A Zomi asylum seeker’s testimony is mistranslated → credibility harmed, case denied
❌ A family in Texas cannot find a Zomi interpreter → reschedules, faces 6-month delay
💡 Zomi Research Institute Recommendations
✔️ Arrange early – Don’t wait until the last week
✔️ Verify interpreter – Must be 18+, fluent, impartial, valid ID
✔️ Bring Form G-1256 – Sign it at the interview, not before
✔️ Ask for help – Churches, nonprofits, refugee groups may assist
✔️ Reschedule if needed – Better to delay than risk denial
📌 Bottom Line:
From Sept 28, 2025, YOU must bring your own interpreter for USCIS interviews.
Plan ahead. Protect your case. Ask your community for support.
👉 Follow Zomi Research Institute for more updates.
🌐 Website: www.zomiresearch.org
✉️ Email: [email protected]
