LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — In a post on X, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services said people are now responsible for providing their own interpreter.
However, attorneys explained, this isn’t necessarily a new rule, it’s a return to pre-pandemic procedures that are now being strictly enforced. While the change wasn’t sudden, attorneys said some applicants are still being caught off guard.
“I think it’s important to note that the tweet’s a little late, the update is a little late, and it’s not a new change,” said Alissa Cooley managing attorney at the UNLV Immigration Clinic. “It’s actually an announcement of reverting back to how it was pre COVID-19 pandemic.”
But in Las Vegas, attorneys said enforcement has tightened recently, and clients who don’t speak English fluently are being sent home and forced to reschedule if they show up without a qualified interpreter.
“This is your one chance, especially with asylum,” Cooley said. “This is your one opportunity to explain your story and be able to express yourself.”
“I have noticed that sometimes the officials in the immigration are a bit more strict recently,” said Vianey, a Las Vegas Spanish interpreter.
Vianey explained accuracy is critical. A wrong translation or showing up without an interpreter can make or break an immigration case.
“It’s definitely worth it because your voice will be heard with a Spanish interpreter,” she said.
USCIS requires interpreters to be 18 or older, fluent in both languages, and not the applicant’s attorney, witness or someone with a conflict of interest.
“The Hispanic community has the misconception that they can bring a family member, or they want to use a neighbor or somebody available that they speak English and Spanish, but sometimes that interferes because the family member or neighbor brings in their emotions,” said Vianey.
If you can’t secure and interpreter USCIS warns it could be treated as if you didn’t appear, experts say rescheduling is possible but risky.
“Start researching in advance, reach out and call, find quotes, ask for referrals,” Cooley said.
It’s important to note President Trump issued an executive order back in March declaring English as the official language of the United States. This rescinded a mandate set in place by former president Bill Clinton — which required the government and organizations receiving federal funding to provide language assistance to non-English speakers.
FOX5 reached out to USCIS for comment, so far, we have not heard back.
For more information on Las Vegas Spanish Interpreter LLC, call (702) 312- 7147.
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US Citizenship and Immigration Services reinforces rule to bring your own interpreter – FOX5 Vegas
