News & Insights

1. Why Biometrics Are Important

Biometrics appointments are a crucial part of many immigration processes, including asylum applications. USCIS collects your fingerprints, photograph, and signature to perform background checks and verify your identity. Missing this step can delay the processing of your application, so it’s important to address the issue promptly.

2. Steps to Take if You Missed Your Appointment

Contact USCIS Immediately:

• Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283.
• Inform the representative about the missed appointment and the reason (e.g., delayed receipt of the notice).
• Request to reschedule the appointment.

Update Your Address:

• If you’ve recently moved, update your address with USCIS using Form AR-11 or through your USCIS online account. This ensures future notices are sent to the correct address.

Wait for USCIS to Contact You:

• If the USCIS officer indicated that a second officer will contact you within 30 days, wait for this communication.
• USCIS may reschedule your appointment automatically or provide further instructions.

Walk-In Option:

• While not guaranteed, many USCIS Application Support Centers (ASCs) allow walk-ins for missed biometrics appointments.
• Take the original appointment notice with you and explain your situation to the staff.
• Be polite and prepared to wait.

Check Your USCIS Online Account:

• Log in to your account to monitor updates about your case and appointment rescheduling.

Keep Documentation:

• Retain all communication with USCIS, including the original appointment notice and proof of your contact with USCIS regarding the missed appointment.

3. What Does It Mean to Be Told a Second Officer Will Call You?

When USCIS informs you that a second officer will call within 30 days, it generally means:

• Your case is under review, and USCIS is determining how to handle your missed appointment.
• USCIS will likely reschedule your biometrics appointment and notify you by mail or phone.
• This is a standard procedure to ensure that cases like yours are not unnecessarily delayed.

What You Should Do:

• Wait for the call or the updated appointment notice.
• If you don’t receive any communication within 30 days, call USCIS again to follow up.

4. What If USCIS Doesn’t Contact Me?

Take the Following Steps:

• If 30 days pass without any updates, call the USCIS Contact Center again and explain the situation.
• Consider visiting your local ASC with the original appointment notice to request a walk-in appointment.

5. Commonly Asked Questions

Q: Can I go to the ASC without an appointment?

Yes, some ASCs may accommodate walk-ins for missed appointments. Bring your original notice and identification, and be prepared to explain the situation.

Q: Will missing my biometrics appointment delay my case?

Delays are possible if the appointment is not rescheduled promptly. Acting quickly to contact USCIS minimizes the risk.

Q: Can I change my address after missing the appointment?

Yes, update your address immediately through Form AR-11 or your USCIS online account to ensure you receive future notices.

6. Relevant Legal Framework

• 8 CFR § 103.2(b)(9): Governs requirements for biometrics submission and outlines consequences for failure to appear.
• Immigration and Nationality Act (INA): Authorizes USCIS to collect biometric data for background checks and identity verification.

7. Tips for Avoiding Future Issues

• Always notify USCIS promptly when you change your address.
• Monitor your mail regularly and consider forwarding mail from your old address for a few months after moving.
• Use your USCIS online account to track updates and communications about your case.