USCIS Temporarily Suspends Biometrics Requirement for Certain I-539 Applicants

May 13, 2021

USCIS announced that effective May 17, 2021, they will temporarily suspend the biometrics submission requirement for certain applicants filing Form I-539. Those requesting an extension of stay in or change of status to H-4, L-2, and E nonimmigrant status are affected by this rule. Instead, USCIS will adjudicate these cases based on biographic information and related background checks but without capturing fingerprints and a photograph. This suspension will apply through May 17, 2023, subject to affirmative extension or revocation of the suspension period by the USCIS director.

Background:

USCIS is experiencing a significant volume of pending cases related to Form I-539, which is particularly impacting H-4, L-2, and certain E nonimmigrants, but especially their related Application for Employment Authorization. Temporary closures and capacity limitations due to COVID-19 safety protocols created a significant volume of cases awaiting biometrics appointments at ASCs. This change in the requirement is meant to alleviate some of this backlog.

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TAGS: Biometrics, I-539, USCIS