DHS Expands Operation PARRIS in Minnesota to Review 5,600 Refugee Claims

(MINNESOTA) — A USCIS interview can feel higher-stakes than usual right now, as Operation PARRIS expands fraud and background-check reviews for certain refugee and green card cases in Minnesota.

On January 9, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced Operation PARRIS (Post-Admission Refugee Reverification and Integrity Strengthening). The operation focuses on reexamining thousands of refugee cases in Minnesota who have not yet become lawful permanent residents. That means many applicants may face closer questioning, tighter document review, and more follow-up requests.

If you have a USCIS interview scheduled for a green card, the best preparation is straightforward: bring the right documents, review your forms for accuracy, and be ready to explain any gaps or inconsistencies. Many problems arise from small errors, not serious issues.

What to expect at your USCIS interview

Most green card interviews follow a predictable structure. Operation PARRIS adds extra attention to identity, travel history, addresses, and prior statements.

1. Security screening at the entrance. Expect airport-style screening. Some items may be prohibited.
2. Check-in and waiting room. You will present your notice and ID.
3. Swearing in. The officer will place you under oath.
4. Identity and biographic review. The officer confirms your name, date of birth, and addresses.
5. Eligibility questions. These depend on your case type.
6. Review of “yes/no” inadmissibility questions. These appear on Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
7. Document review. The officer may keep copies and return originals.
8. Decision or next steps. Some cases are approved quickly. Others need more review.

Expect the officer to compare your answers to what you filed. They may also compare them to prior immigration filings. That includes refugee processing records, if relevant.

Which green card interview this guide covers

This guide focuses on interviews tied to Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. That includes many family-based and refugee-based adjustment cases. Interviews are usually at a local USCIS field office.

Some applicants also have an underlying petition. Examples include:

• Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative (family cases)
• Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers (employment cases)

If your case is refugee-based, your interview may include detailed questions about your refugee claim. Officers may verify consistency with prior statements.

Required documents to bring (and how to organize them)

Bring originals, plus one copy of each item. Use tabs or folders so you can find documents quickly.

Document checklist

Bring any document that explains potential “red flags.” Examples include name variations, long travel, or prior immigration filings.

Common USCIS interview questions (green card cases)

Under Operation PARRIS in Minnesota, applicants should expect more verification questions. This does not mean denial is inevitable—it means the officer is documenting eligibility carefully.

Identity and background questions (common in most cases)

• What is your full legal name and any prior names?
• What is your current address and past addresses for the last five years?
• Where have you worked, and what were your job duties?
• Have you ever used other dates of birth or identities?
• Have you ever filed immigration applications under another name?

Immigration history questions

• When did you last enter the United States?
• What status did you enter in?
• Have you ever overstayed or worked without authorization?
• Have you ever been in removal proceedings?
• Have you ever been denied a visa or immigration benefit?

Refugee-based adjustment questions (often more detailed)

• Tell me what happened that led to your refugee claim.
• Where did you live before coming to the United States?
• What organizations were you affiliated with?
• Have you returned to the country you fled from?
• Did you ever provide different facts in any prior interview?

Marriage-based questions (if your case is through a spouse)

• How and when did you meet?
• When did you decide to marry?
• Where do you live, and who lives there?
• How do you share bills and expenses?
• What did you do last weekend?

Officers can separate spouses for questioning in some cases. That is more common when fraud is suspected.

Fees and processing times to plan around

Interview preparation should include realistic timing expectations. Processing varies by field office and case type.

Form quick reference

Delays are common after interviews when USCIS needs additional background checks. RFEs also extend timelines.

Tips for the day of the interview (arrival time and dress code)

Small practical choices can prevent avoidable stress and rescheduling.

1. Arrive 30 minutes early. Earlier can be helpful. Do not arrive hours early.
2. Dress like a job interview. Business or business casual is safest.
3. Bring only what you need. Avoid sharp objects. Avoid large bags.
4. Bring an interpreter if required. USCIS rules vary by form and field office. Confirm before the date.
5. Bring your attorney or accredited representative. If you have one, they should attend.
6. Answer only what is asked. Do not guess. Ask for clarification.
7. Correct mistakes carefully. If you find an error on a form, explain it clearly.

If an officer asks about a discrepancy, stay calm and explain. Operation PARRIS has increased attention to consistency. That makes preparation more important.

What happens after the interview

USCIS outcomes vary. Some applicants receive a decision at the end. Others receive a notice later.

Common post-interview steps include:

1. Case held for review. The officer may say they need supervisor review.
2. Request for Evidence (RFE). USCIS asks for missing documents or clarifications.
3. Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID). USCIS explains concerns and gives time to respond.
4. Second interview. Sometimes scheduled for complex cases.
5. Approval and green card production. You may see “New Card Is Being Produced” in your online status.

Track updates at my.uscis.gov using your receipt number.

Possible outcomes: approval, RFE, or denial

Approval

Approval can happen the same day or weeks later. You may first receive an approval notice. The physical green card typically follows after production and mailing.

RFE (Request for Evidence)

An RFE is common. It is not a denial. It means USCIS needs more proof.

Typical RFE topics:

• Missing civil documents or translations
• Updated medical exam (Form I-693)
• Proof of relationship in marriage cases
• Proof of continuous eligibility
• Clarification of prior addresses, travel, or employment

Respond by the deadline on the RFE. Send a complete packet with a cover letter and copies.

Denial

Denials can result from ineligibility, misrepresentation, or lack of required evidence. Under fraud-focused operations like Operation PARRIS, misstatements can carry serious consequences. That includes possible referrals for enforcement action in extreme cases.

If you receive a denial, read the notice closely. Some cases allow motions or appeals. Others require refiling or different legal strategies.

Practical next steps before your interview

1. Download and print your filed Form I-485 packet. Review every answer for accuracy.
2. Make a document binder using the checklist above. Bring originals and one copy set.
3. Write a one-page timeline of addresses, jobs, and travel. Keep it consistent with your forms.
4. Check your field office location and parking. Plan to arrive 30 minutes early.
5. Create or log into your USCIS account at my.uscis.gov to track updates.
6. Verify current fees at uscis.gov/fees and current processing estimates at egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/.