Getting ready for your USCIS biometrics appointment is a crucial step in your immigration journey. In this guide, we’ll explain the whole process, making sure you’re well-prepared.
Why Biometrics Matter
Your biometrics appointment isn’t just about getting your fingerprints taken; it’s about collecting various bits of data that uniquely identify you. USCIS uses this info to confirm who you are, run background checks, and check if you’re eligible for the immigration benefit you’re applying for.
Where You’ll Go for Your Appointment
You’ll usually need to head to a USCIS-authorized Application Support Center (ASC). This isn’t the same place where you’ll have your naturalization or status adjustment interview, so keep that in mind. If you’re not sure where your nearest ASC is, you can use the USCIS Service and Office Locator to find out and if you’re in a less populated area, they might even send a mobile van your way for the appointment.
What to Bring
When you get your appointment notice, it’ll tell you exactly what you need to bring. Generally, you’ll need a copy of that notice and a valid photo ID like a driver’s license or passport. If your passport’s expired, don’t put off renewing it do it immediately and if you haven’t gotten your new passport yet by the time of your appointment, bring a letter or receipt from your embassy showing that you’re renewing it.
Leave some things at home like your phone, camera, food, and drinks and there’s no need to bring your lawyer along.
You might also get some health screening instructions, depending on your situation.
Rescheduling Your Appointment
Life happens, and sometimes you might need to reschedule your appointment. That’s okay, but make sure you do it ASAP. If you don’t, USCIS might think you’ve given up on your application and cancel it. To reschedule, you can call the USCIS Contact Center or use the online scheduling tool at MyUSCIS.gov. Just remember, you can’t use the online tool if you’ve rescheduled two or more times, if it’s within 12 hours of your appointment, or if you’ve missed it entirely.
To get a new appointment, you’ll need to have a good reason. That could be anything from being sick or having a medical appointment to travel plans, a big life event, transportation problems, work commitments, or not getting your appointment notice on time. And if you’re feeling under the weather, USCIS strongly recommends rescheduling your appointment.
What Happens at Your Appointment
It usually takes about 20 minutes, but you might have to wait a bit, especially if there are others there at the same time. USCIS usually works on a first-come, first-served basis for folks with similar appointment times.
When you get to the ASC, you might get a number or need to fill out a short form to let the staff know you’re there. They’ll call your name or number when it’s your turn to do your thing.
After Your Appointment
As you finish up, you’ll get a stamp on your appointment notice to show you were there, it might be needed later on, or USCIS might ask for it to prove you went.
Your fingerprints will be sent off to the FBI for review. They’ll check them against records from law enforcement and USCIS to confirm your identity and make sure you’re in the clear, criminally and immigration-wise.
Dealing with a Criminal Record
If you think you might have a criminal record but aren’t sure, it’s smart to talk to an immigration attorney. They can help you get fingerprints and figure out what’s what. While some crimes can mess with your immigration chances, dealing with them ahead of time is the best move.
Your USCIS biometrics appointment is a big deal in your immigration journey. Being ready and knowing what to expect can make it a breeze. Remember your documents, reschedule if needed, and follow USCIS’s instructions to the letter. Your cooperation makes the process smoother for everyone involved.