Attending your USCIS biometrics appointment is an important step toward completing your U.S. immigration process. Once you receive your Application Support Center (ASC) appointment notice, you are required to appear in person for biometrics collection. Below, the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link explain everything you need to know—from what to bring and what happens during your appointment to how biometrics fit into your overall immigration journey.
What Is a USCIS Biometrics Appointment?
A biometrics appointment is a security screening procedure used by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to verify your identity and check your background. During this process, your fingerprints, photograph, and digital signature are collected to ensure you are who you claim to be and to confirm you have no disqualifying criminal or immigration history.
When you are required to attend a biometrics appointment, USCIS will send you an official Form I-797C, Notice of Action, which provides your appointment details. By attending, you authorize USCIS, the FBI, and other government agencies to perform background and security checks using your data.
Checking Case Status: Despite these challenges, applicants are strongly encouraged to regularly monitor their case through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) or by directly contacting the specific embassy or consulate. If the website is unavailable, reaching out via email or phone is the recommended alternative.
Which Immigration Applications Require Biometrics?
Most immigration benefits involve a biometrics appointment. Applicants for the following USCIS forms typically must complete this step:
- Naturalization (Form N-400)
- Removal of Conditions (Form I-751)
- Adjustment of Status / Permanent Residence (Form I-485)
- Temporary Protected Status (Form I-821)
- And many other USCIS applications involving background verification
If you receive an ASC appointment notice, attending is mandatory to avoid delays or denial of your application.
What to Bring to Your Biometrics Appointment
To ensure your appointment goes smoothly, bring the following items:
1. Valid Photo Identification
Acceptable IDs include:
- Passport
- Green card
- National photo ID (from your home country)
- State-issued ID or driver’s license
- Military ID
2. ASC Appointment Notice (Form I-797C)
This is your biometrics appointment letter and must be presented to USCIS staff.
3. Any Additional Documents Requested by USCIS
Examples include employment authorization cards, travel permits, or any other document USCIS specifically requested.
Important: Do not bring your cell phone, cameras, or weapons to the appointment. These items are prohibited inside USCIS facilities.
What Happens During the USCIS Biometrics Appointment?
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early for your appointment. After presenting your ASC notice and photo ID, a USCIS staff member will call you when it’s your turn. The process typically takes about 30 minutes, depending on the workload at your local ASC.
During your session:
- Your fingerprints will be taken using a digital scanner.
- A photograph will be captured.
- Your digital signature will be recorded.
After completion, USCIS will stamp your appointment letter (Form I-797C) to confirm your attendance. Keep this document safe—it serves as proof that you completed your biometrics requirement.
Understanding ASC Biometric Notice Codes
The code in the top-right corner of your ASC notice determines what type of biometrics will be collected:
- Code 1: Full set of fingerprints only
- Code 2: Photograph, two index fingerprints, and digital signature
- Code 3: Full fingerprints, photograph, and digital signature
What If You Have a Criminal Record?
Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from immigrating to the U.S., but it can complicate your case. The outcome depends on the type of crime and when it occurred. Before submitting your application, it’s essential to consult an immigration attorney at Green Card Link for a detailed legal assessment. Our attorneys can help you understand how your record may affect your eligibility and guide you in presenting the strongest possible case to USCIS.
How to Reschedule a Biometrics Appointment
If you cannot attend your appointment, call the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833) to request rescheduling. You must provide a valid reason (known as “good cause”) and reschedule within 30 days of your original date.
Warning: Failure to attend or properly reschedule your biometrics appointment can result in denial of your immigration application.
If you have a serious medical condition that prevents in-person attendance, you may qualify for a mobile biometrics appointment. Follow the instructions in your notice under the “Disability Accommodations” section for more details.
Biometrics Appointments for Families
When multiple family members apply for immigration benefits together, USCIS often tries to schedule their biometrics appointments on the same day. However, this is not guaranteed.
If one family member has an ASC notice and others do not, the ASC may still allow the group to attend together, depending on the officer’s discretion.
For children:
- Under 14 years old: No signature required; a parent or guardian may sign on the child’s behalf.
- Children under 14 do not pay the biometrics fee but must still attend if they receive a notice.
Where Will My Biometrics Appointment Take Place?
The time, date, and location of your appointment appear on your ASC notice.
- Inside the U.S.: You will visit the Application Support Center nearest your address.
- Outside the U.S.: You will attend the appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate processing your application.
You can use the USCIS ASC Locator Tool online to find your nearest office.
When Will I Receive a Response After My Biometrics Appointment?
Processing times vary by USCIS office but typically range from 5 to 11 months after biometrics submission. Delays may occur if your fingerprints are unclear, if you have a criminal history, or if your case is routed for additional background checks. You can monitor your case progress through the USCIS Case Status portal.
What Happens After the Biometrics Appointment?
After your appointment:
- Keep your stamped Form I-797C in a safe place—it proves you attended the appointment.
- Some applicants may be called for a second biometrics session if fingerprints were smudged or incomplete (no additional fee required).
- Depending on your application type, you may later receive an interview notice or approval notice as your next step.
Frequently Asked Questions About USCIS Biometrics
How long does it take to get a biometrics appointment after filing?
Usually within 5–11 weeks, though timing depends on the USCIS service center handling your case.
What should I wear?
There’s no formal dress code, but since USCIS will photograph you, dress neatly and appropriately.
What happens at the appointment?
Your fingerprints, photo, and digital signature are collected to perform background and security checks.
What is ASC Code 3?
It means you’ll provide a photo, full fingerprints, and signature during your appointment.
Is the biometrics appointment the same as the interview?
No. The biometrics session is purely for identity verification. The interview, if required, occurs later.
Is the biometrics appointment the same as the interview?
Processing varies by location but typically ranges from 5 to 11 months.
What happens if I miss my biometrics appointment?
If you miss your appointment without rescheduling, USCIS may process your application without biometrics data—resulting in likely denial.
Get Professional Guidance on Your USCIS Biometrics Appointment
The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link are here to help you understand and prepare for every step of your immigration journey—from biometrics to interviews and beyond. If you have concerns about your eligibility, background checks, or scheduling issues, contact Green Card Link today for personalized legal assistance.