Effective 17 May 2021, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced changes regarding biometrics. In particular, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services suspended biometrics for I-539 applicants requesting some nonimmigrant statuses. For example, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will not require biometrics for I-539 applicants in the E-1, E-2, E-3, H-4, and L-2 categories. This temporary policy applies to foreign nationals requesting extension of stay or change of status. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service’s policy applies to I-539 applications pending as of 17 May 2021. In addition, the policy also applies to applicants, who did not receive a biometrics appointment notice and filed an I-539 application on or after 17 May 2021.

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT BIOMETRICS

Why Does U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Collect Biometrics from Applicants?

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services collects biometrics for security purposes. A Department of Homeland Security regulation authorizes USCIS to collect biometrics when a foreign national applies for an immigration benefit or naturalization. See 8 C.F.R. 103.16(a). After receiving a benefit request, U.S. Citizenship may schedule the applicant for biometrics at the nearest USCIS field office.

May a Foreign National Attend Provide Biometrics Outside the United States?

Yes. The Department of Homeland Security may allow a foreign national to provide biometrics at a designated location.

What Happens If I Fail to Attend a Biometrics Appointment?

Failing to attend a biometrics appointment can harm a foreign national’s application. For example, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services may deny an application as abandoned if a person fails to appear for biometrics. See 8 C.F.R. 103.2(b)(13). Fortunately, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services allows an applicant to reschedule biometrics online before the appointment date.

Avoid Missing a Biometrics Appointment by Updating Address with USCIS

To avoid missing a biometrics appointment, foreign nationals should update their address with USCIS after filing a benefit request. For example, noncitizens may submit the AR-11 Form online or by mail to update their mailing address with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.