After filing certain USCIS applications, one of the first steps you will complete is a biometrics appointment at an Application Support Center (ASC). For many applicants this is their first in-person interaction with USCIS, and knowing what to expect makes the process far less stressful. This guide covers everything from what biometrics are to what happens after you leave the ASC.
You can track when your biometrics status updates using GreenLight's Status Decoder. When the appointment is complete, your status will change to "Fingerprints Were Taken" — see the Fingerprints Were Taken status guide for what comes next.
What Are Biometrics and Why Does USCIS Collect Them?
USCIS collects biometric data for two primary purposes:
- Identity verification: Confirming that the person at the appointment is the same person who filed the application.
- Background checks: Your fingerprints are submitted to the FBI for a criminal history check, and your biographic data is checked against national security and law enforcement databases.
The biometrics collected are fingerprints (all ten digits), a digital photograph, and a signature. These are stored in a secure government database and are not shared with non-law-enforcement entities.
Which Applications Require Biometrics?
Biometrics are required for most USCIS applications filed by adults, including:
- I-485 (Adjustment of Status)
- I-765 (Employment Authorization Document)
- I-131 (Advance Parole / Travel Document)
- N-400 (Naturalization)
- I-751 (Removal of Conditions)
- I-539 (Extension or Change of Status)
- I-90 (Green Card Replacement)
Children under 14 and adults over 79 are typically exempt from fingerprinting but may still need to provide a photograph. The exemption will be noted on your appointment notice if it applies.
What to Bring to Your Biometrics Appointment
Bring both of the following — the ASC cannot process you without them:
- Your biometrics appointment notice (Form I-797C) — the notice USCIS mailed you specifying the date, time, and ASC location.
- A valid government-issued photo ID — passport, green card, state driver's license, or state ID. The ID must not be expired.
Do not bring large bags, food, or drinks. ASCs have strict security. Cell phones are generally allowed but must be kept on silent. You do not need to bring copies of your application or any other documents.
What Happens at the ASC
The ASC appointment is straightforward and quick — most applicants are in and out in 15–30 minutes:
- Check-in: Present your appointment notice and ID at the front desk. Staff verify your identity and appointment.
- Waiting room: You may wait briefly before being called to a biometrics station.
- Fingerprinting: A technician collects all ten fingerprints using a digital scanner. No ink is used. You press each finger against the scanner glass; the system automatically accepts or re-scans if the image quality is insufficient.
- Photo: A digital photo is taken — similar to a passport photo. Look directly at the camera with a neutral expression.
- Signature: You sign electronically on a pad.
- Done: No documents are given to you at the appointment. Your case status will update to "Fingerprints Were Taken" within a few days.
Can You Reschedule a Biometrics Appointment?
Yes. If you cannot attend your scheduled appointment, you can walk into the ASC on any other business day — without rescheduling — and request to be seen as a walk-in. Walk-ins are typically accommodated at the end of the business day if slots are available.
Alternatively, you can reschedule by calling USCIS at 1-800-375-5283 or mailing a written request to the address on your appointment notice. Include your name, receipt number, current appointment date, and the reason for rescheduling. If you miss your appointment without rescheduling, your case is not automatically closed — but you should contact USCIS promptly to reschedule.
What Happens After Your Biometrics Appointment?
Once your fingerprints are submitted, USCIS initiates the FBI criminal history check (a fingerprint-based check) and an FBI name check. These run in the background. Most background checks clear within a few weeks. If a flag is raised, the check can take months — though this is relatively uncommon.
Your case will not proceed to interview scheduling or final adjudication until all background checks clear. For most applicants, this process is invisible — the case simply continues to process normally in the weeks and months following biometrics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I bring to my USCIS biometrics appointment?
Bring two things: your biometrics appointment notice (Form I-797C) and a valid government-issued photo ID (passport, driver's license, or state ID). You do not need to bring your application, supporting documents, or any fees to the ASC appointment.
Can I reschedule my USCIS biometrics appointment?
Yes. You can walk into the ASC on any other business day as a walk-in, call USCIS at 1-800-375-5283 to reschedule, or mail a written rescheduling request to the address on your notice. If you have a valid reason, rescheduling is straightforward. Just do not ignore the appointment — contact USCIS promptly if you cannot attend.
What happens if I miss my biometrics appointment?
Missing a biometrics appointment does not automatically close your case, but it can delay processing. Contact USCIS as soon as possible to reschedule. If USCIS does not hear from you and a significant period passes, they may send a notice asking you to explain the missed appointment. Respond promptly to any such notice.
How long does the biometrics appointment take?
Typically 15–30 minutes from check-in to exit. The fingerprinting, photo, and signature collection process itself takes only a few minutes. Most of the appointment time is spent waiting to be called to a biometrics station.
What does USCIS do with my biometrics?
USCIS submits your fingerprints to the FBI for a criminal history check and runs your biographic data through national security and law enforcement databases. Your biometrics are stored in a secure government database. They are not shared with non-law-enforcement entities. Most background checks clear within a few weeks without any visible case impact.
GreenLight is not affiliated with USCIS or the U.S. government. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.