A biometrics appointment is an important part of the EB-5 visa process. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) collects applicants’ biometric data, including fingerprints, photographs, and digital signatures. The main purpose of this appointment is to verify applicants’ identities and conduct necessary background checks to ensure they are eligible for the immigration benefits they seek.

USCIS collects applicants’ biometric data to improve the security and integrity of the immigration process. This also ensures that EB-5 applicants meet program standards, including verifying the source of investment funds and maintaining a clean record.

Learning about the biometrics process helps applicants manage their expectations and plan accordingly. This includes knowing what forms of identification are needed, the type of biometric data that will be collected, and any associated fees.

In this post, we will provide information that can prepare EB-5 applicants for their USCIS biometrics appointment.

What Should You Bring to Your USCIS Biometrics Appointment?

While preparing for a USCIS biometrics appointment, there are certain essentials EB-5 applicants need to be aware of. These include:

Required Documents

EB-5 applicants are usually required to have certain documents when going to their biometrics appointments. This includes the appointment notice usually communicated through Form I-797C, Notice of Action, which specifies the date, time, and location of the biometrics appointment. Applicants may also need to tender any government-issued photo identification, such as their passport or driver’s license.

Besides these key records, USCIS could request additional documents in the appointment notice that may aid the applicant’s biometric capturing.

Dress Code and Appearance

While there are no strict attire rules, EB-5 applicants are advised to wear simple, formal clothes for their biometrics appointment. Applicants are permitted to wear head coverings for religious purposes as long as their faces remain visible.

What Steps Are Involved in a USCIS Biometrics Appointment?

In this section, we will discuss the stages of the USCIS biometrics appointment for EB-5 applicants.

Receiving the USCIS Appointment Notice

At various stages of the EB-5 process, USCIS may schedule a biometric services appointment at an Application Support Center (ASC). The EB-5 applicant will receive an appointment notice by mail, which provides important details on their biometrics process.

The appointment notice may also include specific documents the agency needs from applicants.

Rescheduling Your USCIS Biometrics Appointment

Applicants may reschedule their biometrics appointment if the given appointment does not work for them. To do this, they need to submit their request through their USCIS online account or by calling the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283. USCIS will not grant rescheduling requests made via mail.

Reschedule requests should be made as early as possible, ideally well before the appointment date.

Arrival

The appointment notice sent to the applicants states the time of their biometrics appointment. It is advisable to arrive 15-30 minutes early to allow time for check-in and security procedures.

Security Screening

Upon arrival at the ASC for a biometrics appointment, applicants will pass a security check. This is similar to security screenings at airports or federal buildings. Applicants will also present their appointment notice and government-issued photo ID to the security personnel or front desk staff.

Following initial processing, applicants will proceed to a security checkpoint. This may involve walking through a metal detector, undergoing an X-ray machine inspection, or a physical pat-down screening. Items not allowed in the facility include weapons, explosives, dangerous chemicals, food, and beverages.

Applicants may bring electronic devices such as phones, laptops, and tablets, but they must silence them while in the waiting area. They must switch off their phones while the USCIS staff is attending to them.

Biometrics Collection Process

After the security screening, USCIS staff will guide the applicant to a biometrics technician. At this stage, the technician will collect the applicant’s biometric information, including fingerprints, digital photographs, and digital signatures. This process also includes a declaration confirming that the information provided in the immigration documents was true at the time of filing.

EB-5 applicants who are 14 years old or older will provide a signature on any application filed with USCIS. Although children under the age of 14 are not required to provide a signature on any application, they may choose to sign their name during the ASC appointment if they can. A parent or legal guardian may also sign the application on the child’s behalf.

In total, a USCIS biometrics appointment typically lasts between 15-20 minutes. However, applicants may have to wait their turn if there are many others scheduled ahead of them at the ACS.

What Should You Do After Your Appointment?

Once the biometrics appointment is complete, applicants will receive a stamp or notation on their appointment notice as proof of completion. To prepare for the next phase of their EB-5 visa process, here are a few things EB-5 applicants can do.

Keep Proof of Attendance

Keep the stamped appointment notice or any confirmation provided by USCIS as proof that you attended the biometrics appointment.

Track Case Status

You can regularly check the status of your application online using the USCIS case status tool. Doing this will help you stay informed about any updates or extra steps required.

Respond to Any Requests

If USCIS sends any requests for more information or documents, respond quickly to avoid delays in processing your application.

Prepare for Possible Follow-Up

In some cases, USCIS may need extra biometrics or follow-up appointments. Be prepared to attend if notified.

Stay Updated

Keep your contact information current with USCIS so that you will receive all communications about your application.

Who Can You Bring to the Appointment?

While not required, there are cases where EB-5 applicants may bring an attorney or accredited representative along. For instance, if the applicant has any complexities in their documentation or legal history, they can retain an attorney to provide guidance and ensure that the paperwork is in order.

Applicants with disabilities may bring a caregiver or family member to help them through the process. They can also request disability accommodation or call the USCIS Contact Center for assistance.

Also, applicants who are not fluent in English can bring an interpreter to their ASC appointment if the center does not provide translators. Friends and family members who are not critically needed should not follow the applicant inside the biometrics facility. They may wait outside the building or in a waiting area, if available.

How EB5AN Can Help

The collection of biometric data is an important step, and missing the appointment or failing to provide the required documents can extend the EB-5 visa process unnecessarily. That’s why it’s advisable to consult an immigration attorney to provide professional guidance, double-check details, and help clarify any confusing requirements.

You can also book a free consultation with EB5AN to get professional assistance from leading EB-5 experts in the U.S.