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How Long an Immigration Psychological Evaluation Takes

October 24, 2026 5 min read

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How long does an immigration psychological evaluation take? Three numbers answer most of it. The interview is usually scheduled within one to two weeks of the first call. The interview itself generally takes two to three hours. And the written report typically follows within seven to fourteen days of the final interview. I keep a full page that walks through every step of that timeline, linked at the end of this post. Here is the short version, with the honest caveats.

The first call

It is free, and it is usually scheduled quickly after your request arrives. It confirms the case type, the language, who will be interviewed and any deadline. If you have a hearing date or a filing date, say it on this call. It shapes the schedule from day one.

The interview

Generally two to three hours, in person in Boca Raton or by secure video from anywhere in Florida. It may be split across sessions, especially when more than one family member is interviewed or when a single long session would be too much. Extra time is a clinical decision, made for the quality of the report, and it is explained to you directly.

What happens inside the two to three hours

The interview is the core of the evaluation. It starts with consent and a plain explanation of what the assessment is and who will receive the report. Then it moves through your history, what brought you to this case, how you are functioning day to day, and the symptoms or changes the referral question asks about. Where clinically indicated, structured screening tools help document symptoms consistently. Nobody is rushed through the hard parts.

Records review runs alongside the interview. Attorney referrals, prior filings, and medical or police records are reviewed as relevant, so the report rests on more than one conversation.

The report

Typically completed within seven to fourteen days of the final interview, and delivered to you and, with your consent, your attorney. Reasonable follow-up questions after delivery are answered. If the case later needs clarification, that is coordinated with your attorney.

The writing takes the time it takes because the report has to hold up under a careful read. It separates what you told me, what the records show, and what I can reasonably conclude, and it is organized for a reviewer who has never met you.

What speeds it up

Saying your deadline on the first call. Having your attorney's referral question ready. Sending the records your attorney flagged early, through the channels arranged at intake. Choosing an interview date when everyone to be interviewed is available. Returning the intake forms and the informed consent promptly, because the first session cannot start without them. Having a private, quiet space ready for a video session, so nothing has to be rescheduled.

What slows it down

Several family members to interview, which often means more than one session. Additional sessions when they are clinically needed. A large volume of records, or records that arrive late from third parties. A complex clinical picture that takes longer to document carefully. When timing changes, you and your attorney hear it from me directly.

Interview language does not change the clock

I conduct the interview directly in English, Español or Português, with no interpreter in the room, so there is no extra step and no extra waiting.

Common questions

How soon can I get an appointment?

Interviews can usually be scheduled within one to two weeks of the first call. The first call itself is free and is usually scheduled quickly after your request arrives.

Can it be done faster if my hearing is soon?

Tell me about the hearing date on the first call. Expedited scheduling for urgent filing deadlines is discussed case by case, and you get an honest answer about what is achievable rather than a promise that cannot be kept.

Does video make it faster?

The interview and the report take the same time either way. Video removes travel, which often makes an earlier date possible.

When will my attorney receive the report?

Written reports are typically completed within seven to fourteen days of the final interview. Complex cases or additional records can extend that, and any change in timing is communicated to you and your attorney directly.

Your next step

Send the request form with your deadline, if you have one, and I call you back with real dates for the first call, the interview and the report.

Want to talk it through with me?

I work in English, Português and Español, in Boca Raton and by telehealth. My first call costs nothing.

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When you are ready, I am here.

Pick a time, or just call me. English, Português, or Español, whichever you prefer.

Written and reviewed by Najla Sallum, LCSW (Florida license SW19846). Last reviewed: .