06/18/2026
Not just anyone can interpret at your asylum interview, but it's not as complicated as you might think.
Your interpreter must be 18 or older and fluent in both English and your native language. They cannot have a pending asylum application themselves, and they cannot be part of your case. They don't need to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident — but given everything that's happening right now, that's something worth considering carefully.
This clip is part of a longer conversation where Jennifer Walker Gates sat down with Aminata Swarray, former USCIS Supervisory Officer and now Senior Attorney at our firm. The full video is on our channel.
Have questions about your case? Schedule your free case assessment with us — link in bio.
The details matter. Make sure your interpreter is the right fit before your interview.