Meet “Emma,” a computer-generated virtual assistant who can answer your questions and even take you to the right spot on our website. Emma is named for Emma Lazarus, who wrote the poem inscribed at the base of the Statue of Liberty about helping immigrants. Inspired by her namesake, our Emma can help you find the immigration information you need.

What Can Emma Do?

Emma answers questions based on your own words; you don’t need to know “government speak”. She also knows a lot of common search terms. She can:

  • Provide immediate responses to your questions about all of our services.
  • Guide you through our website.
  • Find information based on the questions and search terms you use.

Emma is fluent in both English and Spanish, and she will always type out her answers. Below Emma’s answer, she might also offer information related to your question. If you have the sound on, she’ll also talk to you. (Currently, the sound feature is only available on our English website.)

Chatting with Emma is Easy

Getting Emma’s help is easy: just click the “Need Help? Ask Emma” link in the upper right corner of the page or the “Need Help” icon on the bottom of some pages. Emma works on desktop and laptop computers and mobile devices. 

Emma’s development team is continuously refining her knowledge base to improve your experience. To send your feedback or ask for technical support, please email us at askemma@uscis.dhs.gov. Please do not send questions about your personal situation or case to this mailbox; instead, check your case status online or call us at 800-375-5283.

Learn More About Emma

To learn more about Emma and see examples of questions applicants are asking her, check out this short video: Hello, I’m Emma. How may I help you? (exit USCIS to YouTube).

https://www.uscis.gov/tools/meet-emma-our-virtual-assistant