News & Insights

1. Understanding the Biometrics Appointment Process for Asylum Seekers

After submitting Form I-589 (Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal) to USCIS, all applicants aged 14 or older must complete a biometrics appointment. This step is essential for conducting background checks as part of the asylum process.

2. Timeline for Receiving the Biometrics Appointment Notification

Typical Timeline:

• USCIS usually schedules biometrics appointments 2–3 weeks after receiving your Form I-589.
• You will receive a notice by mail with the date, time, and location of your appointment at the nearest Application Support Center (ASC).

Variability:

• Processing times can vary depending on factors such as:
• USCIS workload.
• Delays in mail delivery.
• Administrative backlogs in your specific region.

3. What to Do If You Don’t Receive the Notification on Time

Monitor Your Mail and USCIS Account:

• Ensure the mailing address you provided on Form I-589 is current and accurate.
• If you created a USCIS online account, check for updates there.

Follow Up with USCIS:

• If you don’t receive a notice within 30 days of submitting Form I-589, contact the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 for assistance.

Address Changes:

• If you have moved since filing, immediately update your address with USCIS using the AR-11, Alien’s Change of Address Card: Change of Address Form (AR-11).

4. What to Expect at the Biometrics Appointment

At the biometrics appointment, USCIS will collect your:

• Fingerprints
• Photograph
• Signature

These biometrics are used to perform background and security checks, which are a critical part of the asylum application process.

Important Tips:

• Bring the biometrics appointment notice (Form I-797C) and a valid photo ID (e.g., passport or government-issued ID).
• Arrive on time to avoid rescheduling delays.

5. Key Considerations About the Biometrics Process and U.S. Immigration Law

Mandatory Requirement:

• Under U.S. immigration law, biometrics is a non-negotiable step in the asylum process.
• Failure to attend or reschedule a missed appointment can delay or jeopardize your asylum application.

Background and Security Screening:

• USCIS conducts extensive background checks to ensure applicants do not pose a security threat or have disqualifying factors (e.g., criminal history).

Impact on Asylum Clock:

• While attending your biometrics appointment itself does not directly affect your asylum clock, delays in processing biometrics could indirectly impact your overall case timeline.