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.
Taking your biometrics simply includes:
- a signature
- giving fingerprints
- taking a photo
What is a Biometrics Appointment?
Your biometrics appointment, also known as ASC, is typically the first step after submitting your visa application. It’s generally scheduled 5–8 weeks after your filing date, but you may even receive the appointment notice before getting confirmation that USCIS has processed your application.
Biometrics can be requested from any applicant, sponsor, or any individual residing in the US for immigration and naturalization benefits.
Preparing for Your Biometrics Appointment
There are a couple of things to remember when you’re getting ready for your biometrics appointment. Keep in mind that only the applicant or family member needs to attend. The sponsor is not required to be present, although they can if they wish.
What Documents Do I Need for ASC Biometrics Appointment?
You will need to bring the following documents to your appointment:
- A photo ID, such as your passport or driver’s license
- The notice you received from USCIS (Form I-797C) informing you of the time and place of your biometrics appointment
- Any other notices you’ve gotten from USCIS
- Any other documents USCIS has specifically requested on your appointment notice (usually any previous employment authorization documents or travel permits issued to you)
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.
What Happens During US Visa Biometrics?
When you arrive for your appointment, you will submit your biometrics on machines designed to do so. he biometrics appointment is a simple process where the visa applicant’s fingerprints, photo, and signature are taken. This information is compared to the FBI’s criminal database and the DHS database of non-citizens with immigration violations.
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.
Note: There’s no blood test or DNA test involved in the standard biometrics appointment for a green card. DNA tests might be required in specific cases, such as when there’s uncertainty about a blood relationship. The purpose of a DNA test is different from the biometrics appointment.
How Long Is the Biometrics Appointment?
The biometrics appointment typically takes 15-20 minutes, but you might need to wait beforehand. There’s no interview, and the staff taking your fingerprints and photo don’t have information about your application. So keep in mind, this isn’t the place to ask questions. The fingerprinting staff are often contractors and may not be familiar with the immigration process.
How Long Does It Take to Be Approved After Biometrics?
5-10 weeks. This all depends on the type of visa you’re applying for and the specific USCIS office handling your case. Some offices take longer due to staffing or high demand. The priority of your application also plays a role. While many people expect a response within a few weeks, it often takes longer.
Rescheduling Your Biometrics Appointment
You can reschedule your biometrics appointment, but it’s best to avoid rescheduling more than once. While rescheduling won’t automatically deny your application, failing to get your fingerprints and photo taken in a timely manner could lead to denial.
If something urgent arises, contact the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 to reschedule before your original appointment. If you don’t reschedule and miss your appointment, USCIS may deny your application.
Why Did I Get a Second Biometrics Appointment Notice?
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.
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