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How To Prepare For A Biometrics Appointment in the United States

By Sierra April 5, 2021 (Updated April 7, 2021) 2 min. read
biometrics

There are a number of requirements needed and actions to complete when applying for US immigration. In most cases, this includes completing the visa-specific requirements, immigration interview, a medical exam, and attending a biometrics appointment.

What is Biometrics?

Your biometrics appointment, also known as ASC, is generally scheduled 5–8 weeks after your filing date. Biometrics can be requested from any applicant, sponsor, or any individual residing in the US for immigration and naturalization benefits.

What To Expect

Taking your biometrics simply includes, a signature, giving fingerprints, and taking a photo! When you arrive for your appointment, you will submit your biometrics on machines designed to do so. When you provide your digital signature, you will also be attesting, under penalty of perjury, that the information in your application, petition, or request, and all documents filed in support of your application were complete, true, and correct at the time of filing.

What To Bring to Your Biometrics Appointment

Even if you use the help of an immigration lawyer or sponsor, you are able to attend this appointment alone and specific things to bring will be stated within your appointment notice. Bringing your ASC appointment notice (Form I-797C) and a valid photo ID is standard for all candidates!

The USCIS recommends that applicants print or save a copy of their completed application, petition, or request for your records, and review this copy before your appointment!

Rescheduling Your Biometrics Appointment

The good news is, you are able to reschedule your biometrics appointment although it is frowned upon unless absolutely necessary as rescheduling can be complicated at times. Your application will not be denied if reschedule, however, if your biometrics are not taken in a specific time frame, your visa application could be refused.

If you need to reschedule your USCIS biometrics ASC appointment with good reason before your scheduled appointment date, you must follow the instructions on the biometrics appointment notice. After your reschedule request is received, you can expect to have a new appointment 3-8 weeks down the road so it is vital that your time is flexible. To reschedule your appointment, please make a copy of your appointment notice for your records, then mail only the original appointment notice to:

Biometrics Processing Unit (BPU)
Alexandria ASC
8850 Richmond Hwy, Suite 100
Alexandria, VA 22309-1586

Second Biometrics Appointment

In rare cases, an applicant may be contacted to attend a second biometrics appointment. This doesn’t mean you submitted incorrectly or you’ve been denied, it could mean your biometrics expired before your application was processed or your fingerprints we not usable, etc.

Interested in Immigrating to the United States?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for VisaPlace Legal an award winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.

Walter J. Avatar

Walter J.

I was frustrated after talking to several different immigration firms. Many just didn’t seem honest or upfront. However, a friend recommended VisaPlace to me, and I am glad they did. I worked with a lady and she was very knowledgeable and explained the process to me. She was so essential for the immigration process. I would definitely go back to her if i needed any further support.

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Marco Tame

I’d like to be clear that I’m somewhat of a skeptic, especially when it comes to investing time and money into a new venture. I’m originally from the UK but I made the decision to migrate to Canada after meeting my girlfriend online six months ago. I know the process is going to take time, but I wanted legal counsel to make sure I approach the process in the most efficient way possible – I HATE wasting time. My consultation over the phone was informative and eased some of my initial concerns about potential hiccups. The lawyer I worked with was good about getting back to me, although occasionally she couldn’t be reached due to being in court – that was fine, she typically followed up relatively quickly. I’m now well within the process of immigrating and I have appreciated having the legal support.

Michael Her Avatar

Michael Her

It was pretty easy to make an appointment with visaplace. I have seen some people complain about the pricing, which is odd because in comparison to other firms, their rates are relatively fair. They were also honest and upfront with the complexities of my case and gave me the option to decide whether or not I wanted to move forward. I did end up moving forward and things have been going according to what we discussed. I am relieved to know there are honest professionals out there who won’t over-promise you things they can’t deliver.

Michael Her Avatar

Michael Her

It was pretty easy to make an appointment with visaplace. I have seen some people complain about the pricing, which is odd because in comparison to other firms, their rates are relatively fair. They were also honest and upfront with the complexities of my case and gave me the option to decide whether or not I wanted to move forward. I did end up moving forward and things have been going according to what we discussed. I am relieved to know there are honest professionals out there who won’t over-promise you things they can’t deliver.

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Morgan Whitaker

I had a bad experience with a previous firm so I was hesitant to reach out to another to get my wife into the country. But, I needed guidance. After a consultation with VisaPlace, I was put at ease. The process was smooth and they were usually quick to respond. If they couldn’t respond to me that day, they always followed up with me, which I appreciate.

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Joan Whittington

UPDATE: I am choosing to update and not remove my original post so others will see that they do seem to care about the success of their clients cases.
After posting my initial review I was contacted by a senior consultant that took ownership of the lack of progress on my case on their end. I am updating because they are trying to make a difference and I have now been assigned a team that contacted me in one business day and gave me all of the paperwork I need to get started on for processing. At this point I am very satisfied and am hopeful my case gets resolved in a timely fashion and in a professional manner.

Initial Post: I had an appointment 2+ weeks ago and spoke with someone that was supposed to send a follow up email but have yet to hear back from her. She wanted to get my credit card info for payment but I had to wait for it to clear another payment. They are very irresponsible and not professional. Would not recommend.

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Gregory Larocque

I had a fantastic experience with Brenda! I was very anxious about my status for an upcoming trip to the U.S and Brenda managed to really ease my nerves. She gave exceptional customer service and she made my day. I truly had an incredible experience. I would recommend Brenda to anyone and everyone!