USCIS Extends Suspension of Biometrics Submission Requirement for Certain Nonimmigrant Applicants

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has extended the temporary suspension of the biometrics submission requirement for certain applicants filing Form I-539.

Initially set to last until May 17, the suspension has been extended through Sept. 30.

The suspension benefits those requesting an extension of stay or change of status to H-4, L-2, or E nonimmigrant status.

Form I-539 is used by various groups, including certain nonimmigrants extending their stay or changing to another nonimmigrant status.

Residents of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands applying for an initial grant of status, F and M nonimmigrants applying for reinstatement, and persons seeking V nonimmigrant status or an extension of stay as a V nonimmigrant also use Form I-539.

During the suspension period, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will adjudicate applications for the specified categories based on biographic information and related background checks without the need to capture fingerprints and a photograph. However, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services retains the discretion to require biometrics for any applicant on a case-by-case basis.

According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Fiscal Year 2022 Progress Report, the agency plans to establish a permanent biometrics exemption for all Form I-539 applicants in the coming months.