How to Prepare for Your Biometric Service Appointment for International Employees

After an international employee's petition has been filed and approved, Citizenship and Green Card applicants will need to attend an ASC (Application Support Center) or “biometric” appointment. It can be daunting to know what you need for these appointments, but with proper preparation you'll have nothing to worry about. In this article, we'll give you tips on what you'll need to bring and some important things to keep in mind when attending these appointments.

What is a biometric appointment for?

Biometrics are also known as biological measurements — or physical characteristics — that can be used to identify individuals. So essentially this appointment allows USCIS to confirm your identity and run required background and security checks through proof of your fingerprints, photograph, and/or signature.

What to bring?

• Your ASC appointment notice (Form I-797C). 
• If you are a Bridge client, you will receive this notice in an email notification. If you received multiple biometrics appointment notices, please bring all notices to your appointment at the application support center; and
• Valid photo identification (such as your Green Card, passport, or driver’s license)

We recommend that you review, print or save a copy of your completed application, petition, or request for your records. Your local application support center cannot print a copy for you. 

What happens at this appointment?

You will submit your fingerprints, photos and digital signature on machines designed to collect biometrics. When you provide your digital signature, you will also be attesting that the information in your application, petition, or request (or one submitted on your behalf), and all documents filed in support of your application, petition, or request, were complete, true, and correct at the time of filing.

Are my children required to attend this appointment?

Minors under the age of 14 are not required to provide a digital signature at this appointment, but they can choose to sign if they are capable of signing.

How do I schedule my appointment?

Your appointment notice (Form I-797C, Notice of Action) will include the date, time, and location for your appointment.

Can I reschedule my appointment?  

We highly recommend not rescheduling unless extenuating circumstances exist. If you are unable to attend your scheduled biometric services appointment for good cause, you may request to reschedule your appointment by calling the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833). You must make your request before the date and time of the original appointment, and you must establish good cause for rescheduling. 

If you fail to call before your scheduled appointment or fail to establish good cause, USCIS may not reschedule your ASC appointment. If your appointment is not rescheduled, they may consider your application, petition, or request abandoned and, as a result, it may be denied.

Frequently asked questions

What if I need to change my information? 

The appointment notice is based on the information you provided on your application, petition, or request. Your local ASC cannot change your name or other personal information during your ASC appointment. 

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Content in this publication is not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult a Bridge-affiliated partner attorney or another qualified legal professional.

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