Your interview will generally last at least an hour, although the time may vary depending on your case.  You will be asked to take an oath promising to tell the truth during the interview.  Your interpreter will also take an oath promising to interpret accurately and truthfully.  The asylum officer will verify your identity, ask you basic biographical questions and the reasons you are applying for asylum, and questions to determine if any immigration or criminal history will prevent you from applying for or being granted asylum.    The asylum officer will know that it may be difficult for you to talk about traumatic and painful experiences that caused you to leave your country.  However, it is very important that you talk about your experiences so that the asylum officer can determine whether you qualify for a grant of asylum.   The information you share with the asylum officer is confidential.  In general, information related to your asylum claim cannot be shared with third parties without your written consent or specific authorization by the Secretary of Homeland Security.   If you have hired an immigration attorney for your asylum application/interview, you and your attorney will have time at the end of the interview to make a statement or add any additional information.  A decision on your case will not be made at the asylum interview.