USCIS Biometrics Appointments: What to Bring and How to Reschedule

What the appointment is for

After you file certain applications, petitions or requests, USCIS may need your fingerprints, photograph or signature. It schedules a biometric services appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC). USCIS says the biometrics allow it to confirm your identity and run required background and security checks.

Your appointment notice

USCIS sends an appointment notice — Form I-797C, Notice of Action — with the date, time and location of your ASC appointment. Read it carefully: USCIS says the notice gives specific instructions on what to bring.

What to bring

USCIS says you must bring:

• your ASC appointment notice (Form I-797C) — and if you received multiple biometrics notices, bring all of them;
• valid photo identification, such as your Green Card, passport or driver’s license.

USCIS notes that your attorney or accredited representative does not need to go with you to the ASC.

What happens at the ASC

USCIS says you submit your biometrics on machines designed to collect them. When you give your digital signature, you also attest, under penalty of perjury, that the information in your application and supporting documents was complete, true and correct when filed. The acknowledgment is shown in English and Spanish; USCIS provides instructions in other languages on its page, and says that if you don’t understand spoken English you should bring someone who can translate.

Rescheduling: follow the rules exactly

USCIS sets strict requirements:

1. Make the request through your USCIS online account — USCIS says not to mail it.
2. Request it before the date and time of the original appointment.
3. Show good cause — this applies even if you only want to change the location.

USCIS warns that if you don’t follow these requirements and don’t appear for your original appointment, it may consider the related application, petition or request abandoned and may deny it. If your online account isn’t working, USCIS lists its Contact Center and virtual assistant as alternatives on the same page.

Disability accommodations

USCIS says you can request a disability accommodation online through its accommodations page or through the USCIS Contact Center. Asylum and NACARA 203 applicants must call to make the request.

If you missed it

Act immediately — read the instructions on your notice and the USCIS page above, and consider getting legal help. See also what to do after a missed appointment.