Understanding Biometrics Collection for USCIS Immigration Applications and Requests.

When applying for an immigration benefit with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), one of the requirements is often the collection of biometric data. This data includes fingerprints, photographs, and signatures, which help USCIS identify and verify the identity of the applicant or petitioner. In this article, we will explore the different aspects of the USCIS Biometrics Collection, including appointments, mobile biometrics collection, fingerprint waivers, and the types of biometrics collected.

Application Support Center Appointments

Biometric appointments are essential to the application process for various immigration benefits requested from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). After submitting an application, petition, or other requests, USCIS schedules a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC).

When an individual files an application or petition with USCIS, they will receive a biometric appointment notice. This notice will provide the date, time, and location of the appointment, as well as specify the type of identification the individual should bring. It’s important to follow these steps for a smooth USCIS biometrics collection process.

However, if the individual requires an exemption from collecting certain biometric data, they must request it during their ASC appointment. It is necessary to attend the biometrics appointment, as USCIS considers a failure to appear as an abandonment of the application, petition, or immigration request.

However, USCIS may excuse the failure to appear if they receive a change of address or rescheduling request that they conclude warrants excusing the failure to appear.

Mobile Biometrics Collection

When a disability or health issue prevents a person from attending an ASC appointment, USCIS may offer domestic mobile biometric services. Mobile biometrics collection involves gathering biometrics from individuals with pending immigration benefit requests at predetermined locations outside an ASC.

USCIS has discretion in conducting mobile biometrics collection. Mobile biometric collection may also be extended by USCIS to those living in remote areas. When an individual is in a remote location, USCIS may arrange alternative biometric services. They coordinate with local law enforcement agencies or other DHS components to collect biometrics on their behalf. USCIS does not grant requests to collect biometrics from individuals in custody at correctional institutions. USCIS officers and contract staff do not travel to jails, prisons, or similar non-DHS detention facilities to perform biometric collections for detained or incarcerated individuals.

In such cases, USCIS officers follow all applicable regulations and procedures. They issue ASC notices to individuals required to appear for biometrics collection. USCIS biometrics collection for detained individuals involves coordination with ICE and ERO for background and security checks.

Fingerprint Waivers

Individuals who cannot provide fingerprints due to medical conditions, such as disabilities, congenital disabilities, physical deformities, skin conditions, and psychiatric conditions, may qualify for a fingerprint waiver. However, only authorized USCIS employees can grant fingerprint waivers. To be eligible for a waiver, the individual must have appeared in person for the biometrics collection, and the officer or authorized technician must have attempted to fingerprint the person or determined that it was impossible.

The officer must then determine that the person is unable to be fingerprinted or provide a single legible fingerprint. Fingerprint waivers cannot be granted solely based on the following situations: The person has fewer than ten fingers. The person’s fingerprints are unclassifiable. The person’s condition preventing fingerprint collection is temporary. If USCIS grants a fingerprint waiver, it only applies to the specific application, petition, or benefit request listed on the ASC notice. USCIS grants the waiver solely for the case in which they collect biometrics. The individual must request a fingerprint waiver for each subsequent filing with biometrics collection requirements.

Biometrics Collected

USCIS collects several types of biometric data, including fingerprints, photographs, and signatures. The agency embeds photos in secure documents, such as Permanent Resident Cards (Form I-551) and Employment authorization cards.These biometrics collections are all part of the USCIS procedures.

Conclusion

The biometric collection is an essential part of the application and petition process with USCIS. Applicants and petitioners must attend scheduled ASC appointments or request mobile biometric services if they cannot attend in person. In some cases, immigration authorities may grant fingerprint waivers to individuals with medical conditions preventing them from providing fingerprints. USCIS officers oversee the biometrics collection, ensuring a smooth process for applications. By understanding the different aspects of biometrics collection, individuals can ensure they comply with USCIS requirements and avoid delays in processing their applications or petitions.