Got a USCIS Fingerprint Appointment? 7 Tips So Your Case Keeps Moving

After you file many immigration applications, USCIS sends a letter asking you to come in for a "biometrics" appointment. That simply means they will take your fingerprints, your photo, and your signature. It is usually quick and simple. But a missed or mishandled appointment can slow your case down or even get it denied. Here is how Jacksonville families can get it right.

1. Read your appointment letter right away

The letter is called a Form I-797C, Notice of Action. It shows the date, the time, and the exact office where you must go. These offices are called Application Support Centers. Open your mail as soon as it arrives and put the date on your calendar. If more than one family member filed, each person may get their own letter with a different time.

2. Bring the right things

Bring your appointment letter. If you got more than one, bring all of them. Also bring a valid photo ID, like your green card, passport, or driver's license. Do not bring weapons of any kind, including knives or pepper spray, even if you have a permit. They are not allowed in USCIS buildings.

3. Go to the office on your letter, not a different one

In the past, some offices would see people who showed up at the wrong location. That is no longer the case. If you go to a different office than the one on your letter without rescheduling first, USCIS says your appointment will not be processed.

4. If you cannot go, reschedule the right way and in time

Life happens. If you are sick or have a real emergency, you can ask to reschedule through your USCIS online account. You must ask before your appointment and give a good reason. Online requests must be made at least 12 hours before your appointment time. If it is less than 12 hours away, or you already missed it, call the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283. Do not mail a reschedule request. If you simply skip the appointment without rescheduling, USCIS may treat your case as abandoned and deny it.

5. Know what your signature means

At the appointment you will sign on a machine. With that signature, you are confirming under penalty of perjury that everything in your application was true and complete. If you think something in your application was wrong, talk to your attorney before your appointment. Children under 14 do not have to sign.

6. You do not need your lawyer there, but you may need help with language

Your attorney does not need to go with you. The statement you sign will be in English and Spanish. If you do not understand spoken English, USCIS says you should bring someone who can interpret for you, such as a family member. If you have a disability or cannot leave your home or hospital because of a serious medical condition, you can ask for an accommodation. Follow the instructions on your notice or call the Contact Center.

7. Keep your address up to date and keep copies

USCIS sends appointment letters by mail. If you moved, update your address with USCIS right away so you do not miss a letter. The office cannot change your name or other personal details at the appointment, so tell your attorney about any errors. After the appointment, keep your letter and any stamped papers with your case records.

The bottom line

A biometrics appointment is a normal step, and it usually means your case is moving forward. Open your mail, show up at the right place on time, and reschedule only the right way. If you have questions about your appointment or your case, Bilbao Law is here to help Jacksonville families. Call us at (904) 300-0825 to schedule a consultation.

This post is general information, not legal advice for your situation.

Additional resources

• USCIS: Preparing for Your Biometric Services Appointment - https://www.uscis.gov/forms/filing-guidance/preparing-for-your-biometric-services-appointment
• USCIS online account sign-in (to reschedule) - https://my.uscis.gov/
• USCIS Contact Center - https://www.uscis.gov/contactcenter
• USCIS: How to change your address - https://www.uscis.gov/addresschange
• USCIS: Avoid immigration scams - https://www.uscis.gov/avoid-scams