USCIS Extends Suspension of Certain Biometrics Requirement until 30.Sep.2023

The U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has extended the suspension of the biometrics requirement for certain I-539 applicants through September 30, 2023. The prior policy had suspended the biometrics requirement through May 17, 2023.

Biometrics Suspension to Aid in Processing Backlogs

Prior to May 17, 2021, all applicants applying for change or extension of nonimmigrant status on form I-539 were required to submit to biometrics collection. On May 17, 2021, the USCIS suspended this requirement for those in H-4, L-2, E-1, E-2, and E-3 statuses, to aid in processing backlogs. This “suspension” was initially effective until May 17, 2023. The recent announcement extends the date until September 30, 2023.

Biometrics Fee Not Required

The USCIS reminds all eligible applicants that the $85 biometrics fee is not required to be submitted when filing form I-539. A paper application will be returned if the applicant submits both the filing fee and the $85 biometrics processing fee as a single combined payment.

The USCIS reserves the right to require biometrics for any applicant on a case-by-case basis. The USCIS also has announced a plan to eliminate the biometrics requirement completely for all I-539 applicants at a future, undetermined date.

Conclusion

The extended suspension of the biometrics requirement continues to be a benefit relieving eligible I-539 applicants from the burden of making a personal appearance at a designated USCIS Application Support Center for biometrics capture and allowing for a more streamlined adjudication by the USCIS. The Murthy Law Firm will provide any relevant updates on this subject as they become available.

 

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