Biometrics & Fingerprints

Biometrics at a US embassy or consulate (visa applicants abroad)

If you apply for a US visa from outside the country, your biometrics are part of the same process as your DS-160 (nonimmigrant) or DS-260 (immigrant) application. The standard is a ten-fingerprint scan, taken ink-free with a digital reader. These scans are usually captured on the day of your interview, though the exact point in the process varies by post.

• Ten digital fingerprint scans are the US standard for visa applicants at embassies and consulates.
• Scans are typically taken at the interview; a digital photo is also part of the application.
• When you give fingerprints you certify, under penalty of perjury, that the information in your application is true.
• The fingerprint data is stored and made available to border officers to verify your identity when you arrive at a US port of entry.
• Some applicants may be exempt from appearing in person — check your post's instructions.

Biometrics for USCIS applications (inside the US)

When you file certain applications or petitions with USCIS — for example an adjustment-of-status application (I-485), a naturalization application (N-400), or a work-permit request (I-765) — USCIS may require a biometric services appointment. At the appointment, an Application Support Center collects your fingerprints, a photograph, and an electronic signature. USCIS uses these to run background checks and to produce secure documents such as a Green Card or work permit.

• USCIS notifies you of the appointment by mail or through your USCIS online account — you do not schedule it yourself.
• Appointments take place at a local Application Support Center (ASC).
• The appointment collects fingerprints, a photo, and a signature (not always all three, depending on the case).
• Missing the appointment without rescheduling can lead USCIS to deny your application, petition, or request.

What to bring to an ASC appointment

• Your appointment notice (bring every notice if you received more than one).
• Valid, unexpired photo identification — for example a passport, Green Card (Form I-551), or driver's license.
• The forms of ID USCIS accepts are listed on your appointment notice and the official preparation page.

Rescheduling an appointment

If you cannot attend your USCIS biometrics appointment, you can ask to reschedule before the original date and time. Requests can be made through your USCIS online account or by calling the USCIS Contact Center. Online requests must be made at least 12 hours before the appointment. If you neither attend nor reschedule, USCIS may treat the request as abandoned and deny it.

• Reschedule through your USCIS online account or by phoning the USCIS Contact Center (800-375-5283).
• Online rescheduling must be done at least 12 hours before the existing appointment.
• Request the change before the scheduled date — do not simply skip it.

Fees for biometrics

Under the USCIS fee schedule that took effect on 1 April 2024, the cost of biometric services is generally built into the main filing fee for each form rather than charged separately. A small standalone biometric services fee still applies in limited situations (for example certain Temporary Protected Status and EOIR-related filings). For consular visa applicants abroad, biometrics are part of the visa application process covered by the MRV visa application fee (for example $185 for most nonimmigrant categories, higher for petition-based and treaty categories). Fees change, so confirm the current amount on the official fee page for your specific form or visa before you pay.

• Since 1 April 2024, most USCIS forms fold biometrics into the main filing fee — no separate charge.
• A separate biometric services fee still applies to a few case types; check the USCIS fee schedule.
• Consular fingerprints are covered within the visa process (MRV fee $185 for most nonimmigrant categories; more for petition-based and treaty visas).
• Always verify current fees on the official page — figures can change.