USCIS Immigration Fingerprinting: Requirements Explained
Complete guide to USCIS biometric fingerprinting requirements for immigration applications, including forms, fees, processing times, and step-by-step appointment procedures for 2025.
USCIS Update 2025
USCIS has streamlined the biometric appointment process and expanded Application Support Center (ASC) locations nationwide. This guide reflects the latest requirements and procedures.
Understanding USCIS Biometric Services
USCIS requires biometric services (fingerprinting, photograph, and signature) for most immigration applications. This security measure helps verify identity and conduct background checks for immigration benefits.
What's Included
- • Digital fingerprint capture (10 prints)
- • Digital photograph
- • Electronic signature
- • Identity verification
- • Document review
Processing
- • FBI background check
- • Administrative checks
- • Name-based checks
- • International database queries
- • Security clearance verification
Who Needs USCIS Fingerprinting
Immigration Applications Requiring Biometrics
Family-Based Immigration:
- • Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status)
- • Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
- • Form I-751 (Remove Conditions on Residence)
- • Form I-90 (Replace Permanent Resident Card)
- • Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)
Employment-Based Immigration:
- • Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Worker)
- • Form I-485 (Employment-based AOS)
- • Form I-526/I-526E (Investor Petitions)
- • Form I-829 (Investor Remove Conditions)
- • Form I-765 (Work Authorization)
Other Categories
Humanitarian Programs:
- • Form I-589 (Asylum Applications)
- • Form I-730 (Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition)
- • Form I-821 (Temporary Protected Status)
- • Form I-821D (DACA Applications)
Special Categories:
- • Form I-192 (Advance Parole)
- • Form I-601 (Application for Waiver)
- • Form I-612 (Application for Waiver)
- • Certain petitions under VAWA
The Biometric Appointment Process
Receive Appointment Notice
After filing your application, USCIS will mail you a biometric services appointment notice (Form I-797C) typically within 2-4 weeks.
Important: The notice includes your scheduled appointment date, time, location, and what to bring. Don't lose this notice!
Prepare Required Documents
Gather all required documentation for your appointment:
- • Form I-797C appointment notice (original)
- • Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport)
- • Any USCIS-issued documents in your possession
- • Form I-94 (if applicable)
- • Permanent Resident Card (if you have one)
Attend Your ASC Appointment
Arrive at your designated Application Support Center (ASC) on time. Early arrival is recommended but appointments cannot typically be moved earlier.
Tip: Arrive 15-30 minutes early to allow time for security screening and check-in procedures.
Complete Biometric Capture
The appointment typically takes 20-30 minutes and includes:
- • Document verification and check-in
- • Digital fingerprinting (all 10 fingers)
- • Digital photograph
- • Electronic signature capture
- • Review and verification of information
Application Support Centers (ASC) in Florida
Miami ASC
Address: 8351 NW 53rd Street
Miami, FL 33166
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Phone: 1-800-375-5283
Tampa ASC
Address: 5524 West Cypress Street
Tampa, FL 33607
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Phone: 1-800-375-5283
Orlando ASC
Address: 9403 Tradeport Drive
Orlando, FL 32827
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Phone: 1-800-375-5283
Jacksonville ASC
Address: 4121 Southpoint Boulevard
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Phone: 1-800-375-5283
Important ASC Notes
- • You must attend the ASC listed on your appointment notice
- • Security screening is required (like at an airport)
- • Cell phones and electronic devices may be restricted
- • Parking may be limited; arrive early
- • No food or drinks allowed inside
Fees and Payment Information
Biometric Services Fee
- • Standard Fee: $85 (as of 2025)
- • Age-based exemptions: Under 14 or over 79
- • Fee waivers: Available for certain applicants
- • Payment: Included with application filing fee
Fee Exemptions
- • Applicants under 14 years of age
- • Applicants 79 years of age or older
- • Certain asylum and refugee applications
- • Some VAWA-related petitions
Payment Methods
Biometric fees are typically paid when you file your underlying application. Accepted payment methods include:
- • Money order or cashier's check (recommended)
- • Personal check (from U.S. bank account)
- • Credit card (online filing only)
- • Online payment through USCIS account
Processing Times and Next Steps
Typical Timeline:
After Biometrics:
- • Background check results processed
- • Case continues normal processing
- • No additional action required from you
- • Monitor case status online
Potential Delays:
- • Poor fingerprint quality
- • Name changes or aliases
- • Previous criminal history
- • Administrative processing delays
Special Circumstances and Considerations
Age-Related Considerations
Children (Under 14):
- • No biometric services required
- • Parent/guardian must attend ASC
- • Photo and signature may be taken
- • No fingerprinting required
Elderly (79+):
- • No biometric fee required
- • May still need to attend ASC
- • Simplified biometric capture
- • Alternative procedures available
Medical or Physical Limitations
If you have medical conditions that prevent normal fingerprinting:
- • Inform ASC staff upon arrival
- • Alternative capture methods may be used
- • Medical documentation may be required
- • Additional administrative processing may occur
Rescheduling Appointments
Valid Reasons:
- • Medical emergency
- • Military deployment
- • Natural disaster
- • Court appearance
How to Reschedule:
- • Call USCIS Contact Center
- • Provide supporting documentation
- • Request must be timely
- • New appointment will be scheduled
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I walk in for biometrics without an appointment?
Generally, no. USCIS requires scheduled appointments. However, some ASCs may accommodate walk-ins on the same day if you arrive early, but this is not guaranteed.
What happens if I miss my biometric appointment?
USCIS may deny your application if you fail to appear. Contact USCIS immediately to reschedule if you cannot attend your appointment.
How long are biometrics valid?
Biometrics are typically valid for 15 months from the date of capture. If your case takes longer, USCIS may schedule a new biometric appointment.
Can someone accompany me to the ASC?
Yes, but only the applicant may enter the biometric capture area. Companions must wait in designated areas and may be subject to security screening.