Preparing for the Biometrics Appointment

Preparing for the Biometrics Appointment - Lawfully

The fingerprinting and biometrics appointment is a crucial step during the marriage Green Card application process. Once USCIS receives the marriage Green Card application, USCIS schedules the biometric appointment and will send Form I-797C notice of action with the date, time and location. Check this article to understand more about U.S. biometric appointments!


I. What information is obtained during the biometrics appointment?

During the fingerprinting appointment, often called the biometrics appointment, USCIS obtains fingerprints and photographs to run background checks on all marriage Green Card applicants. The obtained information will undergo routine checks with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and other criminal background check databases.


II. Where are biometrics appointments performed?

The location for fingerprinting differs depending whether the marriage Green Card applicant resides within the United States or outside of the United States. If the marriage Green Card applicant resides within the United States, it will be held at a nearby USCIS Application Support Center (ASC). If the marriage Green Card applicant resides outside of the United States, it will be held at a U.S. embassy or consulate office.


III. What to bring for the biometrics appointment?

The biometrics appointment is a simple process. Just don’t forget to bring the following important documents:

  • Government issued photo ID (passport or driver’s license)
  • Biometrics appointment notice from the USCIS (Form I-797C, Notice of Action)
  • Any documents provided by the USCIS to be provided to the biometrics appointment

IV. How do criminal records get disclosed to the USCIS?

In general, the USCIS requires fingerprinting at the biometrics appointment to check whether the marriage Green Card applicant fully disclosed all their criminal records. Although certain crimes can deem the marriage Green Card applicant ineligible, the applicant should consult an attorney to ensure that relevant criminal records be fully disclosed on the marriage Green Card application. Furthermore, additional certified court documents should be provided during the initial application process to ensure that all requested information is sufficiently provided.

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