USCIS Biometrics Processing Times Range From 9 to 16 Months in 2025

Key Takeaways

• From April 11, 2025, aliens staying 30+ days in the US must register and provide fingerprints.
• Biometrics processing now ranges from 9 to 16 months, with fingerprints valid for 15 months.
• Missed biometrics appointments risk application denial; accommodations available for disabled or homebound applicants.

The United States 🇺🇸 immigration system relies on a series of steps to confirm the identity and background of applicants. One of the most important steps is the biometrics appointment, where fingerprints, photos, and signatures are collected. In 2025, several updates have changed how these appointments are handled, who must attend, and what happens after fingerprints are taken. This update explains the latest changes, who is affected, what actions are needed, and what these changes mean for people waiting on immigration decisions.

Summary of What Changed

As of July 10, 2025, the process for handling biometrics, especially fingerprints, has new rules and timelines. The most important change is the new Alien Registration Requirement that started on April 11, 2025. Now, certain foreign nationals who stay in the United States 🇺🇸 for 30 days or longer must register and provide fingerprints. This is in addition to the usual biometrics appointment required for most immigration applications.

USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) has also updated how it schedules and processes biometrics appointments. Processing times after fingerprints are taken can now range from 9 to 16 months, depending on the type of application and the local USCIS office’s workload. There are also new rules about how long fingerprints are valid and what happens if someone misses their appointment.

Who Is Affected by These Changes

The updates affect several groups:

• Family-based green card applicants: People applying for a green card through family sponsorship must attend a biometrics appointment, usually 5-8 weeks after filing.
• Employment-based applicants: Those applying for work permits or employment-based green cards also need to provide fingerprints.
• Non-U.S. citizens staying 30 days or longer: Under the new Alien Registration Requirement, certain foreign nationals must register and submit fingerprints if they remain in the United States 🇺🇸 for more than 30 days.
• People with pending applications: Anyone waiting for a decision on an immigration application that requires biometrics is affected by the new processing timelines and rules.
• Applicants needing accommodations: People with disabilities or who are homebound/hospitalized can request special help for their biometrics appointment.

Effective Dates

• April 11, 2025: The new Alien Registration Requirement began. Foreign nationals staying in the United States 🇺🇸 for 30 days or more must now register and provide fingerprints.
• March 2025: Updated processing times for biometrics appointments and related background checks went into effect.

Required Actions for Applicants

If you have filed an immigration application or are staying in the United States 🇺🇸 for more than 30 days, here’s what you need to do:

1. Watch for Your Biometrics Appointment Notice
   • After you submit your application, USCIS will mail you a notice with the date, time, and location of your biometrics appointment. This usually happens 5-8 weeks after filing for family-based green card applicants.
   • The notice will include instructions and what documents to bring.
2. Attend Your Biometrics Appointment
   • Go to the assigned Application Support Center (ASC) on the date and time listed.
   • Bring your appointment notice, photo ID (like a passport or driver’s license), and any other requested documents.
   • The appointment usually takes 15-20 minutes, but you may have to wait before being called.
3. If You Need Accommodations
   • If you have a disability or are unable to travel, you can request help from USCIS. This can be done online or by calling the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283.
   • USCIS can arrange for mobile biometrics collection or other accommodations as needed.
4. If You Miss Your Appointment
   • If you do not attend your biometrics appointment and do not have a good reason, USCIS may consider your application abandoned and deny it.
   • If you cannot attend, contact USCIS as soon as possible to reschedule.
5. For Those Affected by the Alien Registration Requirement
   • If you are a foreign national staying in the United States 🇺🇸 for 30 days or more, make sure you register and provide fingerprints as required by the new rule.
   • Failing to do so can result in penalties or affect your immigration status.

What Happens After Fingerprints Are Taken?

After your biometrics appointment, USCIS sends your fingerprints to the FBI for a background check. This check looks for any criminal history or security risks. Here’s what you can expect:

• Processing Time: As of March 2025, it can take 9 to 16 months from your biometrics appointment to get a final decision or be scheduled for an interview. The exact time depends on your application type and the workload at your local USCIS office.
• Fingerprint Validity: Your fingerprints are valid for 15 months from the date the FBI processes them. If your application is still pending after 15 months, you may need to provide new fingerprints.
• Case Status Updates: After your fingerprints are taken, your USCIS online account or case status page will update to show that biometrics were received. This update usually appears within a few days to a couple of weeks after your appointment.
• No Immediate Decision: Having your fingerprints taken does not mean your application will be decided right away. The background check and other processing steps can take many months.

Implications for Pending Applications

If you already have a pending application and have completed your biometrics appointment, here’s what the new changes mean for you:

• Longer Wait Times: The current processing time of 9 to 16 months means you may have to wait longer than in previous years for a decision or interview.
• Possible Need for New Fingerprints: If your case is still pending after 15 months, USCIS may ask you to come in for another biometrics appointment.
• Impact of New Alien Registration Rule: If you are a non-U.S. citizen staying in the United States 🇺🇸 for 30 days or more, you must comply with the new registration and fingerprinting rule, even if you already provided fingerprints for another application.
• Missed Appointments: Missing your biometrics appointment without a good reason can lead to your application being denied as abandoned.

Recent Policy Changes Explained

The Alien Registration Requirement is a major new rule. Starting April 11, 2025, certain foreign nationals must register and provide fingerprints if they stay in the United States 🇺🇸 for 30 days or longer. This rule is meant to help the government keep better track of who is in the country and to improve security checks.

• Who Must Register: The rule applies to non-U.S. citizens who are not permanent residents or U.S. citizens and who plan to stay in the country for more than 30 days.
• Penalties for Not Registering: If you do not register and provide fingerprints as required, you could face fines, removal from the country, or problems with future immigration applications.
• How to Register: USCIS will provide instructions on how to register and where to go for fingerprinting. This may be at an ASC or another designated location.

Expert Advice and Recommendations

Immigration attorneys and experts recommend the following:

• Stay Informed: USCIS processing times and rules can change. Always check the official USCIS website for the latest information.
• Consult Professionals: If you have questions about your case or the new rules, talk to an immigration lawyer or accredited representative. They can help you understand how the changes affect your situation.
• Keep Records: Save all notices, receipts, and proof of attending your biometrics appointment. These documents can help if there are any questions about your case.
• Check Your Case Status: Use your USCIS online account or the USCIS Case Status tool to track updates on your application.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, many applicants are experiencing longer wait times after their biometrics appointment. This is due to higher application volumes and new security checks. It’s important to be patient and to follow all instructions from USCIS carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long after my biometrics appointment will my case be updated?
– Your USCIS case status should update to show that fingerprints were taken within a few days to two weeks after your appointment. This update means that USCIS has received your fingerprints and sent them for background checks.

Does having my fingerprints taken mean my application is approved?
– No. The biometrics appointment is just one step in the process. After your fingerprints are taken, USCIS and the FBI will complete background checks. Your application will then continue through other review steps before a final decision is made.

What if I miss my biometrics appointment?
– If you miss your appointment and do not contact USCIS to reschedule, your application may be denied as abandoned. Always notify USCIS as soon as possible if you cannot attend.

Will I need to provide fingerprints again?
– If your application is still pending after 15 months, USCIS may ask you to provide new fingerprints. This is because fingerprints are only valid for 15 months for background checks.

Can I request accommodations for my biometrics appointment?
– Yes. If you have a disability or cannot travel, you can request accommodations from USCIS. Contact the USCIS Contact Center or make a request online.

What should I bring to my biometrics appointment?
– Bring your appointment notice, a valid photo ID, and any other documents listed in your notice. Arrive on time and be prepared to wait.

Official Resources and Forms

For the most accurate and current information, always refer to the USCIS official website. If you need to check your case status, use the USCIS Case Status tool.

If you need to reschedule your biometrics appointment or request accommodations, you can find instructions and forms on the USCIS Forms page.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

• Attend your biometrics appointment as scheduled. Missing it can delay or end your application.
• Monitor your case status online to see when your fingerprints have been received and processed.
• Be aware of the new Alien Registration Requirement if you are a non-U.S. citizen staying in the United States 🇺🇸 for 30 days or more.
• Keep all documents and notices related to your biometrics appointment and application.
• Contact USCIS or an immigration professional if you have questions or need help.

These changes reflect the government’s efforts to improve security and keep better records of people in the country. While the process can be slow and sometimes frustrating, following the steps carefully and staying informed will help you avoid problems and keep your application moving forward.

For more details on biometrics appointments, fingerprints, and USCIS policies, visit the USCIS Biometrics Appointment page.

By understanding these updates and taking the right steps, you can help make sure your immigration application stays on track. Always check official sources for the latest information and reach out for help if you need it.

Learn Today

Biometrics Appointment → A USCIS process where fingerprints, photos, and signatures are collected for identity verification and background checks.
Alien Registration Requirement → A 2025 rule requiring foreign nationals staying 30+ days in the US to register and provide fingerprints.
USCIS → U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the agency responsible for handling immigration applications and biometrics processing.
Fingerprint Validity → Fingerprints collected are valid for 15 months for background checks before new biometrics may be needed.
Application Support Center (ASC) → USCIS locations where applicants attend biometrics appointments to submit fingerprints and photos.

This Article in a Nutshell

The 2025 biometrics update mandates aliens in the US for 30+ days must register and fingerprint. Processing times have lengthened to 9-16 months. Missing appointments risks denial. USCIS offers accommodations for disabilities. Stay informed and track your case online to ensure your immigration process proceeds smoothly under new rules.
— By VisaVerge.com