On December 2, 2015, USCIS launched “Emma,” a new virtual assistant tool that helps customers more easily and quickly find immigration information and answers.

What is Emma?

Emma is a virtual assistant that allows clients to quickly find accurate customs and immigration information by only having to ask Emma a question. Emma searches the USCIS database and directs users to an appropriate website; it’s as simple as that.

Named after Emma Lazarus, whose famous 1883 poem is inscribed on the bottom of the Statute of Liberty. The poem ends with, “I lift my lamp beside the golden door,” symbolizing an action of help and assistance, which is is fitting for Emma, designed in response to USCIS’ aim to improve customer service.

How to Use Emma

To ask a question using Emma, visit the USCIS.gov website and find “Ask a Question” located at the top right-hand corner. Click on the link and ask your question. Emma responds in English and provides a text box with the written response.

Currently providing answers to many generic questions that are typically asked of USCIS staff, the database of replies from Emma will continually grow as customers ask new questions.

New Versions to Come

If you have questions for USCIS, give Emma a try from your laptop or desktop. Not yet available yet for mobile devices, or in other languages, USCIS is planning to launch mobile versions of Emma and teach her Spanish early next year.