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Biometric 
Appointments

Understanding Your Biometrics Appointment

Introduction

A biometrics appointment is an important step in many U.S. immigration processes, such as visa applications, green cards, and other immigration benefits. In this procedure, your fingerprints are to be taken along with your photograph and signature in order to verify who you really are, and it will be followed by a background check through the federal databases to confirm your identity. It is very crucial that you have an idea of what to expect at your biometrics appointment or how to prepare for it because it will make your immigration process smooth.

Preparing for the Biometrics Appointment USCIS

Uscis Biometric Reschedule

After filing for your visa or immigration application, USCIS will give you notice of your biometric appointment. This notice might come before USCIS confirms if they have received your application package. Normally, most biometric appointments are scheduled between five and eight weeks after the date on which you filed. You should remember this time frame and make arrangements accordingly.

Required Documents

To ensure a smooth biometrics appointment, bring the following documents:
 

  • Photo ID: Acceptable forms of identification include your passport or driver’s license. This helps verify your identity.

  • Appointment Notice from USCIS: This notice details the date, time, and location of your appointment.

  • Other Receipt Notices: Any additional documents from USCIS related to your application should be brought along.

  • Specific Requested Documents: Occasionally, USCIS may request additional documents, such as previous employment authorization or travel permits. Make sure to include these if specified in your appointment notice.

What to Avoid Bringing?

For security reasons, certain items are prohibited at the biometrics appointment:
 

  • No weapons of any kind are allowed.

  • Leave any food or beverages outside the appointment area.

  • Do not bring electronic devices such as phones or tablets, as they are not permitted in the fingerprinting area.

What to Expect at the Biometrics Appointment?

Location of the Appointment

The location of your biometrics appointment depends on where you are:
 

  • Applicants will attend their appointment at a local USCIS office. This typically occurs early in the green card or visa application process.

  • If you are outside the U.S., the appointment will take place at the U.S. consulate handling your visa application, usually after your green card interview has been scheduled.

Appointment Procedure

During the appointment:
 

  • You will have your fingerprints taken, a photograph captured, and your signature recorded. This data is used to check against the FBI’s criminal database and the Department of Homeland Security’s immigration violation records.
     

  • Unlike other medical tests, the biometrics appointment does not involve blood draws or DNA testing. Any DNA tests requested would be related to verifying relationships in your visa application, not part of the biometrics process.

Duration of the Appointment

The entire process usually takes between 15 and 20 minutes. However, you may need to wait before your appointment begins. The appointment does not include an interview; it is a straightforward procedure where the focus is solely on collecting biometrics data. The staff performing the procedure are often contractors and may not have detailed knowledge about your application.

How To Reschedule Biometrics Appointment Uscis?

Rescheduling your biometrics appointment with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is now easier than ever, thanks to a new online tool. This feature is available for both paper and online filings and is designed to simplify the process for applicants, their attorneys, and accredited representatives. However, it's essential to understand when and how you can use this tool to ensure that your request is processed smoothly.

Can we reschedule?

You may need to reschedule your biometric appointment for various reasons. Life events, health issues, or unexpected travel plans can interfere with your ability to attend the original appointment date. USCIS understands that these situations can arise and has now provided an online tool to make rescheduling easier.

When You Cannot Use the Rescheduling Tool

The USCIS rescheduling tool is incredibly convenient, but there are specific situations where it cannot be used:
 

  • If you have already rescheduled your appointment twice, the tool will not allow a third rescheduling.

  • If your appointment is scheduled within the next 12 hours, you will not be able to reschedule it online.

  • If you have already missed your biometrics appointment, the tool cannot be used to reschedule.

  • If your application involves the following forms, the online tool cannot be used:
     

    • Form I-600: Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative.

    • Form I-600A: Application for Advance Processing of an Orphan Petition.

    • Form I-800: Petition to Classify Convention Adoptee as an Immediate Relative.

    • Form I-800A: Application for Determination of Suitability to Adopt a Child from a Convention Country.

 

For any of these situations, it is strongly recommended that you contact the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 to discuss your options.

When You Can Use the Rescheduling Tool

You can use the online rescheduling tool if your situation meets the following criteria:
 

  • Your biometrics appointment is scheduled for a future date.

  • You can establish "good cause" for rescheduling (more on this below).

  • You have not already rescheduled your appointment more than twice.

  • You did not miss your original appointment.

  • Your application does not involve Form I-600, I-600A, I-800, or I-800A.
     

Understanding "Good Cause" for USCIS biometrics Reschedule

USCIS permits rescheduling if you have a valid reason, known as "good cause." Examples include:
 

  • Health Issues: Illness or medical appointments.

  • Travel Conflicts: Previously planned trips.

  • Major Life Events: Weddings, funerals, or graduations.

  • Transportation Problems: Difficulty reaching the appointment location.

  • Work or Caregiving Duties: Inability to obtain leave.

  • Mail Delays: Late or undelivered appointment notices.
     

If any of these apply, you can reschedule your appointment through the USCIS online tool.

How to Request Untimely Rescheduling?

If you miss your biometrics appointment or fall outside the criteria for using the online tool, you will need to contact the USCIS Contact Center to request an untimely rescheduling. This request must be made by phone, as USCIS does not accept untimely requests by mail, in person, or through the online system.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Rescheduling Online

Here is how you can reschedule your biometrics appointment using the USCIS online tool:

  1. Login to Your myUSCIS Account:

    • Visit the USCIS website and sign in to your account.

  2. Navigate to the Rescheduling Section:

    • Once logged in, go to "My Account" and scroll down to "Reschedule Biometrics."

  3. Select Your Appointment:

    • Choose the appointment you wish to reschedule.

  4. Choose a Good Cause Reason:

    • From the dropdown menu, select the reason for rescheduling that best fits your situation.

  5. Enter Appointment Information:

    • Provide the necessary information from your ASC appointment notice (Form I-797C).

  6. Choose a New Date and Location:

    • Decide whether you want to keep the same location or choose a new USCIS location.

    • If changing the location, enter your state or zip code to find nearby USCIS offices.

    • Select a new date and time for your appointment. Dates with availability will be marked with a blue circle.

  7. Confirm and Submit:

    • Review all the details to ensure accuracy.

    • Submit your rescheduling request.

  8. Check Your Submitted Requests:

    • After submitting, navigate to the "Submitted Requests" section of your myUSCIS account.

    • Here, you will find a new appointment notice (Form I-797C) that you must bring to your rescheduled appointment.

What to Bring to Your Rescheduled Appointment?

When attending your rescheduled biometrics appointment, make sure you have the following:
 

  • Bring both the original and rescheduled appointment notices (Form I-797C).

  • A Green Card, passport, or driver’s license.

  • Review your application before your appointment, as USCIS will not provide you with a copy.

Final Tips:

  • Notify Your Legal Team: If you have legal representation, ensure they are informed of any changes to your biometrics appointment so they can update their records.

  • Act Quickly: The sooner you reschedule your appointment, the better, as delays can impact the processing of your immigration application.

Biometrics FAQs

Q. What If I Have a Criminal Record?

If you have a criminal record, it is crucial to seek legal advice during your green card or visa application process. An attorney can guide you on how to disclose your criminal record appropriately. The primary goal of biometrics is to confirm that you have accurately reported your criminal history. Certain criminal records may affect your eligibility for immigration benefits, so addressing them transparently is essential.
 

Q. Why Did I Get a Second Biometrics Appointment Notice?

Receiving a second biometrics appointment notice does not necessarily indicate a problem with your application. Common reasons for a second notice include:

  • Unusable Biometrics: If your initial fingerprints were smudged or otherwise not usable, a second appointment may be required.

  • Expired Biometrics: Biometrics data is valid for 15 months. If your application takes longer to process, you might need to have your biometrics taken again.
     

Q. What To Wear To Uscis Biometrics Appointment?
For your USCIS biometrics appointment, wear business casual attire that is comfortable and neat. Avoid bulky accessories, hats, or headwear that could obstruct identification. Opt for practical footwear and dress in layers to accommodate varying temperatures. Follow any specific instructions from your appointment notice and adhere to security protocols to ensure a smooth process.
 

Q. How to check uscis biometric appoinment online?
To check your USCIS biometrics appointment online, follow these steps:
 

  • Go to the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov.

  • Click on "Check Your Case Status" under the “Tools” menu or use this direct link.

  • Input your Receipt Number, which is found on the receipt notice you received from USCIS.

  • After submitting your Receipt Number, the status page will display your appointment details, including the date and location of your biometrics appointment.

  • You can also create an account on the USCIS online account system for more detailed updates and notifications about your case.

For more details, Please visit our website melendezlegal.com.

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