¿What can you expect at your biometrics appointment?

If you are on the path to receiving a green card, you are likely to have to schedule a biometrics appointment. At this appointment, immigration officials collect your photograph and fingerprints. The purpose of collecting this biometric information is both to verify your identity and to perform required background checks.

According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the agency has the legal authority to gather biometric information from those who petition or apply for immigration benefits. To ensure your biometrics appointment goes as smoothly as possible, you should prepare for the appointment before it arrives.

Check your I-797C

USCIS uses Form I-797C to update individuals on the status of their applications or petitions. This may include the receipt of your application or petition and its approval or rejection. The USCIS also sends I-797C notices to inform individuals about biometrics appointments.

Your I-797C biometrics notice should include the date and time of your appointment. It also should tell you where you must appear and give you general instructions. It is important to read and understand these instructions. Furthermore, if there is an error on the I-797C, you should correct it with the USCIS as quickly as possible.

Gather identification documents

The biometrics appointment typically is not much of a hassle. Still, before you attend the appointment, you must be certain you have the right identification documents. These documents, which allow you to prove who you are, include your passport, green card, driver’s license or other government-issued identification cards.

Ultimately, to avoid unnecessary delays, you should make every effort to attend your scheduled biometrics appointment with the correct documentation.