May 05, 2021
LawQuest US Immigration Alert | USCIS Expected to Suspend Biometric Requirement for Certain Visa Categories
USCIS Expected to Suspend Biometrics Requirement for Certain Visa Categories
The USCIS is expected to soon suspend the biometrics requirement for H-4, L-2, and E-1, E-2, and E-3 visa categories of Form I-539 applications. The agency announced its intention on May 4, in a hearing of a federal litigation that had challenged the USCIS’ lengthy case processing delays.
It has been indicated that the biometric suspension will apply to applicants of Form I-539 in the H-4, L-2, and E-1, E-2, and E-3 categories if they are: 1) pending on May 17, 2021 and have not yet received a biometric services appointment notice; or 2) are new applications received by the USCIS from May 17, 2021 through May 23, 2022.
The suspension is intended to reduce processing backlogs, particularly for the EAD applicants, which often times extend beyond several months.
The USCIS will soon issue guidance regarding the applicability of the biometrics suspension and biometrics fee but until then, applicants should attend their scheduled biometric appointment as failure to do so will adversely affect the case.
LawQuest will continue to monitor the situation and provide necessary updates.
