Key Takeaways
• Reschedule biometrics appointments online via myUSCIS account with a good cause, at least 12 hours before the original time.
• Applicants may only reschedule online twice; beyond that, they must call USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283.
• New appointment notices (Form I-797C) usually arrive within days to weeks, depending on local Application Support Center demand.
If you need to reschedule your biometrics appointment with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), it’s important to follow the right steps and understand what to expect. Biometrics appointments are a key part of many immigration processes, such as green card applications, citizenship, and work permits. Missing or mishandling this step can lead to serious delays or even denial of your application. This guide will walk you through the process of rescheduling your biometrics appointment in the United States 🇺🇸, explain how long it usually takes, and help you avoid common mistakes.
Introduction: Why Rescheduling a Biometrics Appointment Matters
A biometrics appointment is when USCIS collects your fingerprints, photo, and sometimes your signature. This information is used to check your background and confirm your identity. If you can’t make it to your scheduled appointment, you must reschedule it properly. Failing to do so can cause your application to be delayed or denied.
USCIS has made it easier to reschedule biometrics appointments, especially with the online myUSCIS account system. However, there are strict rules and deadlines you must follow. This guide will help you understand each step, how long it might take, and what to do if you run into problems.
Step 1: Log In to Your myUSCIS Account
Estimated Time: 5–10 minutes
- Go to the myUSCIS account page.
- Enter your username and password.
- If you don’t have an account, you can create one by following the on-screen instructions.
Important:
You can use your myUSCIS account to reschedule your biometrics appointment even if you originally filed your application by mail.
Common Pitfall:
Forgetting your login details can slow down the process. If you’ve lost your password, use the “Forgot password?” link to reset it.
Step 2: Find Your Case and Select “Reschedule Biometrics Appointment”
Estimated Time: 5 minutes
- Once logged in, look for your active immigration case.
- Click on the case to open the details.
- Find the option to reschedule your biometrics appointment.
Note:
If you don’t see your case, make sure you’ve entered the correct receipt number. If you still can’t find it, contact the USCIS Contact Center.
Step 3: Submit Your Reschedule Request (At Least 12 Hours Before Appointment)
Estimated Time: 10–15 minutes
- You must submit your reschedule request at least 12 hours before your scheduled appointment.
- The system will ask for your reason. USCIS requires a “good cause” for rescheduling.
Examples of Good Cause:
– You are sick or have a medical appointment.
– You have a family emergency or important life event.
– You have travel plans that cannot be changed.
– You have transportation problems.
– You have work or caregiver duties.
– You received your appointment notice late or not at all.
Important:
If your appointment is less than 12 hours away, has already passed, or you have already rescheduled twice, you cannot use the online tool. In these cases, you must call the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833).
Common Pitfall:
Waiting until the last minute can leave you with no online option. Always act as soon as you know you can’t attend.
Step 4: Wait for Confirmation and New Appointment Notice
Estimated Time: Varies (see below)
- After submitting your request, USCIS will review it.
- If approved, you will receive a new appointment notice (Form I-797C) in your myUSCIS account and by mail.
- The new notice will include the date, time, and location of your rescheduled appointment.
How Long Does It Take to Get a New Appointment?
– USCIS does not guarantee a specific timeline.
– Most people receive their new appointment notice within a few days to several weeks.
– The exact timing depends on how busy your local Application Support Center (ASC) is.
– In busy areas or during high-demand periods, it may take longer.
Important:
Rescheduling your biometrics appointment can delay the processing of your main immigration application. Your case will not move forward until you complete biometrics.
Common Pitfall:
Not checking your myUSCIS account or email for updates. Always monitor your account after submitting a reschedule request.
Step 5: If You Can’t Use the Online Tool, Call the USCIS Contact Center
Estimated Time: 10–30 minutes (wait times may vary)
- If you cannot use the online tool because:
- Your appointment is less than 12 hours away
- Your appointment has already passed
- You have already rescheduled twice
- Call the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833). If you are outside the United States 🇺🇸, call 212-620-3418.
- Be ready to provide your receipt number, personal information, and a clear explanation of your “good cause.”
Tip:
Call during business hours (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. ET) for the best chance of reaching an agent quickly.
Common Pitfall:
Trying to reschedule by mail or in person. As of 2025, USCIS does not accept reschedule requests by mail or at their offices.
Step 6: Receive and Review Your New Appointment Notice
Estimated Time: 1–3 weeks (typical, but can be longer)
- Once your reschedule request is approved, you’ll get a new appointment notice (Form I-797C).
- The notice will tell you:
- The new date and time
- The location of your ASC
- What to bring to your appointment
What If You Don’t Receive a Notice?
– Check your myUSCIS account and email regularly.
– If you haven’t received anything after three weeks, contact the USCIS Contact Center.
Important:
Bring your new appointment notice and a valid photo ID to your biometrics appointment. If you show up with the old notice, you may be turned away.
Step 7: Attend Your Rescheduled Biometrics Appointment
Estimated Time: 30–60 minutes (appointment day)
- Arrive at the ASC at least 15 minutes early.
- Bring your new appointment notice (Form I-797C) and a valid photo ID (such as a passport or driver’s license).
- Follow all instructions from ASC staff.
Tip:
If you have a disability or need special help, let the ASC staff know when you arrive.
Time Estimates for the Entire Rescheduling Process
- Submitting a reschedule request: 10–15 minutes
- Waiting for new appointment notice: Usually 3–21 days, but can be longer in busy locations
- Attending the new appointment: 30–60 minutes
Total time from reschedule request to new appointment:
Usually 1–3 weeks, but sometimes longer depending on ASC availability.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
1. Missing the 12-Hour Deadline
– If you wait too long, you’ll lose the online reschedule option and must call USCIS.
2. Not Providing a “Good Cause”
– Vague or weak reasons may lead to denial of your request.
3. Multiple Reschedules
– You can only reschedule online twice. After that, you must call.
4. Not Checking for Updates
– Failing to check your myUSCIS account or email can cause you to miss important notices.
5. Missing the New Appointment
– If you miss your rescheduled appointment without good cause, your application may be considered abandoned and denied.
Troubleshooting: What to Do If You Have Problems
Problem: Can’t log in to myUSCIS account
Solution: Use the “Forgot password?” link or contact USCIS for help.
Problem: Appointment is less than 12 hours away
Solution: Call the USCIS Contact Center immediately.
Problem: Already rescheduled twice online
Solution: Further reschedules must be done by phone.
Problem: Did not receive new appointment notice
Solution: Check your myUSCIS account and email. If nothing arrives after three weeks, call the Contact Center.
Problem: Special circumstances (medical emergency, disability)
Solution: Call the Contact Center and explain your situation. USCIS may offer special help.
Checklist: Rescheduling Your Biometrics Appointment
- [ ] Log in to your myUSCIS account
- [ ] Find your case and select “Reschedule Biometrics Appointment”
- [ ] Submit your request at least 12 hours before your appointment
- [ ] Provide a clear “good cause” reason
- [ ] Wait for your new appointment notice (Form I-797C)
- [ ] Check your myUSCIS account and email regularly
- [ ] If needed, call the USCIS Contact Center for help
- [ ] Bring your new appointment notice and photo ID to your appointment
- [ ] Attend your rescheduled appointment on time
Policy Updates and What’s New in 2025
- Online Rescheduling Tool:
As of 2025, most applicants can reschedule biometrics appointments online, making the process faster and easier. - No Mail or In-Person Requests:
USCIS only accepts reschedule requests online or by phone. - Clearer “Good Cause” Rules:
USCIS now gives more examples of what counts as a good reason to reschedule.
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, these changes have made the process more efficient, but applicants should still act quickly and carefully to avoid delays.
Official Resources
- myUSCIS Account: my.uscis.gov
- USCIS Contact Center: 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833), Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. ET
- Outside the United States 🇺🇸: 212-620-3418
- USCIS Policy Manual: USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 1, Part C, Chapter 2
- Preparing for Your Biometrics Appointment: USCIS Biometrics Appointment Preparation
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I reschedule my biometrics appointment more than twice?
A: You can only reschedule online twice. After that, you must call the USCIS Contact Center.
Q: What happens if I miss my appointment without rescheduling?
A: Your application may be considered abandoned and denied.
Q: How long does it take to get a new appointment after rescheduling?
A: Usually between a few days and several weeks, depending on ASC availability.
Q: Can my attorney reschedule for me?
A: Yes, attorneys and accredited representatives can use their own myUSCIS accounts to reschedule for clients.
Q: Can I reschedule by mail or in person?
A: No. As of 2025, only online or phone requests are accepted.
Key Takeaways and Next Steps
- Act quickly if you need to reschedule your biometrics appointment.
- Use your myUSCIS account for the fastest and easiest process.
- Provide a clear, strong reason for rescheduling.
- Check your account and email often for updates.
- Call the USCIS Contact Center if you have special circumstances or can’t use the online tool.
Rescheduling your biometrics appointment with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is straightforward if you follow these steps and stay alert for updates. For more details and the latest official information, visit the USCIS Biometrics Appointment Preparation page.
By following this guide, you can avoid delays and keep your immigration process on track.
Learn Today
Biometrics Appointment → USCIS procedure collecting fingerprints, photo, and signature to verify applicant identity and conduct background checks.
myUSCIS Account → Online USCIS portal for managing immigration cases, receiving notices, and rescheduling appointments securely and efficiently.
Form I-797C → Official USCIS notice used to confirm appointment details, receipt of documents, or case updates.
Good Cause → A valid reason accepted by USCIS for rescheduling a biometrics appointment, such as illness or emergencies.
Application Support Center (ASC) → Local USCIS facilities where biometrics appointments and other in-person services are conducted.
This Article in a Nutshell
Rescheduling a biometrics appointment with USCIS requires logging into myUSCIS, providing a valid reason, and submitting the request 12 hours prior. Most new appointments are scheduled within weeks. Acting promptly avoids delays or denial of immigration applications due to missed or mishandled biometrics steps.
— By VisaVerge.com
