Who must appear in person before an Immigration Officer according to 8 C.F.R. § 207.2(b)?

The requirement for individuals to appear in person before an Immigration Officer, as stated in 8 C.F.R. § 207.2(b), specifically applies to each applicant who is 14 years of age or older. This provision ensures that the Immigration Officer can conduct an assessment of the applicant's eligibility for refugee status. In-person appearances allow for a more comprehensive evaluation of the applicant's claims and circumstances, as well as the opportunity for the officer to ask clarifying questions that may not be effectively addressed through written documentation alone.

Requiring appearances from those who are 14 years and older strikes a balance between ensuring due process and recognizing the capability of younger individuals to communicate their situations, while also distinguishing the responsibilities of adult applicants. This age threshold is significant in the context of refugee applications, as applicants younger than 14 may be represented by their guardians or adult family members, allowing the legal process to remain accessible while accommodating the varying levels of maturity and understanding among minors.

The other choices either incorrectly broaden the requirement to all applicants regardless of age or limit it to specific sub-groups that do not align with the regulation's criteria.