Celebrating Our Heritage & Honoring the Role of Interpreters in Immigration Interviews

September marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month, a time when we recognize the cultures, histories, and contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

As a Latina and proud Puerto Rican, I hold this month close to my heart. While Puerto Rico is part of the United States, and I am an American citizen, I also carry with me a rich and beautiful cultural identity. Our language, music, resilience, and family-centered traditions are powerful parts of who we are.

And yet, despite being the fastest-growing population in the U.S., Spanish speakers—and speakers of many other languages—still face a steep climb when it comes to language access. This is especially true in immigration proceedings.

The Role of Interpreters in Immigration

Many people don’t realize this, but when it comes to immigration interviews with USCIS, you are responsible for providing your own interpreter. USCIS does not supply interpreters for most interviews.

And they don’t accept just anyone. You must bring a trained professional interpreter—someone who:

• Is fluent in both English and your language

• Takes an oath to interpret faithfully and accurately

• Is not a family member, petitioner, or attorney

• Source: USCIS Policy Manual, Vol. 1, Part E, Chapter 3

Showing up without a qualified interpreter can delay your case—or worse, your interview may be canceled altogether. That’s why we’re using this month to spread the word: Schedule your interpreter early.

What to Know Before Scheduling an Interpreter

We know it can feel overwhelming. So here’s a quick guide to help you plan ahead and avoid common mistakes:

1. Know the Basics

Ask yourself:

• What language do I need interpreted?

• Where is the interview taking place?

• How long will I need the interpreter?

Most agencies, including Be Moore Interpreting, require a 2- to 3-hour minimum for immigration appointments. Why?

• Interpreters must block off their schedules, and interviews are unpredictable.

• There are often delays or extended wait times.

• You don’t want an interpreter to leave mid-interview due to scheduling conflicts.

• This ensures your interpreter is fully present and available for the entire process.

2. Prepare Ahead

Professional interpreters appreciate any background information you can provide ahead of time, such as:

• Interview type (green card, asylum, etc.)

• Any supporting documents

• Names, places, or technical terms that might come up

The more they know, the better they can serve you.

3. Respect the Interpreter’s Time

Interpreters are professionals. Many work as independent contractors, meaning they’re responsible for:

• Self-employment taxes

• Business expenses

• Transportation

• Equipment and training

Please be prepared to pay for their service—and understand that language services are not free.

4. Understand the Cancellation Policy

Almost all agencies (ours included) have a 24-hour cancellation policy. If you cancel with less than a day’s notice, you’ll still be charged in full. Why?

Because your interpreter:

• Blocked off their time just for you

• Turned down other work

• Reserved space in their schedule that can’t be filled last-minute

Canceling early respects their time and allows the agency to reassign the interpreter.

Let’s Celebrate—And Advocate

During Hispanic Heritage Month, I celebrate my culture, my language, and my journey. I also advocate for all immigrants to be treated with dignity, clarity, and professionalism—especially in high-stakes environments like USCIS interviews.

At Be Moore Interpreting, we’re proud to stand beside you. Let us help you find the right interpreter, prepare in advance, and walk into that interview with confidence.