"In-person interviews for permanent residents used to be rare, now pretty much everyone gets one," said Finkelman......
Incorrect - Every applicant for a "green card" must attend an in person interview with an immigration officer before it is approved. The immigration process involves a number of steps and the interview is the final step before permanent residence is granted. This was actually the one and only time I spoke with an official during my application, and in 20yrs have not needed to speak to another one.