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USCIS biometrics (fingerprint) appointment: what to bring, what happens and how to reschedule

A simple guide to the USCIS fingerprint appointment: what to bring, what happens at the ASC and how to reschedule before the date.

After you file, USCIS may need your fingerprints, photo and signature. This is called a biometrics appointment. It happens at an Application Support Center (ASC).

The date, time and address are on a Form I-797C notice that USCIS mails you.

What to bring

  • Your appointment notice (I-797C). If you got more than one, bring them all.
  • A valid photo ID, such as a Green Card, passport or driver's license.
  • A printed or saved copy of the application you filed. USCIS cannot give you a copy at the appointment.
  • An interpreter if you don't understand spoken English, such as a family member. Your attorney does not need to come.

What happens at the appointment

  • Staff take your fingerprints, photo and, for some forms, a digital signature.
  • With that signature you confirm that what you filed was complete and true.
  • USCIS uses biometrics to confirm your identity and run background checks.
  • If you applied for a work permit (I-765) or Green Card replacement (I-90), they are also used to print your card.
  • Your name and personal details cannot be changed at the appointment.
  • Applicants 14 and older must sign. A parent or legal guardian may sign for a younger child.

How to reschedule

  • Call the USCIS Contact Center: 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833). Help is available in English and Spanish.
  • Call before the date and time of your original appointment.
  • You must show a good reason. If you are sick, follow these same steps.
  • If you miss it without rescheduling in time, USCIS may treat your case as abandoned and deny it.
  • If a medical condition keeps you at home, see the section for people with disabilities on your notice.

What to do

  • Check your I-797C today and write down the date, time and address.
  • Get your ID, the notice and your application copy ready the night before.
  • If you can't go, call USCIS before the appointment to reschedule.
  • If you moved, update your address with USCIS so you don't miss notices.
  • Add your receipt number in CaseAlerta to know when your status changes after the appointment.
  • To see how long the next step may take, check the official USCIS processing times. They are ranges, not exact dates.

This is general information, not legal advice.

Sources

Informational summary prepared by CaseAlerta with AI assistance from official sources. Not legal advice.

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