USCIS Biometrics Appointment Guide for Naturalization

After USCIS receives your Form N-400 application, the next step is a biometrics appointment at an Application Support Center (ASC). This appointment is short, typically 15 to 20 minutes, and does not involve any testing or questioning about your application. Its sole purpose is to collect your fingerprints, photograph, and signature for an FBI background check.

Why USCIS Collects Biometrics

USCIS uses your biometric data to run a fingerprint-based background check through the FBI's Next Generation Identification system. This check searches criminal databases across all 50 states and federal records for any arrests, convictions, or other records associated with your fingerprints. The results are used as part of the good moral character evaluation in your naturalization case.

What Is Collected at the Appointment

• Fingerprints. The technician rolls each finger across an electronic scanner and takes flat impressions of all four fingers on each hand. This replaces the old ink-and-paper method used for decades.
• Digital photograph. A front-facing photo is taken and stored in your biometric record.
• Signature. You sign electronically using a digital pad.

What to Bring

You only need two things at your biometrics appointment:

• Your biometrics appointment notice (Form I-797C). This is the letter USCIS mailed to you after receiving your N-400. Do not lose this letter before your appointment.
• A valid government-issued photo ID. A driver's license, state ID, or your current Green Card all work. Foreign passports are also acceptable.

Do not bring family members into the appointment area. They can wait in the lobby. Children should stay home if possible, as ASC waiting rooms can be crowded and the process can take 30 to 60 minutes including wait time.

If Your Fingerprints Are Rejected

Some applicants, particularly those who have done manual labor for many years, have worn fingerprints that do not scan clearly. If the scanner cannot read your fingerprints on the first attempt, the technician will try several more times using different techniques. In most cases, a usable scan is eventually obtained.

If the system cannot capture your prints after multiple attempts, the technician documents the attempt. USCIS may schedule a follow-up appointment or, in rare cases, may proceed without fingerprints if they cannot be captured despite repeated attempts. This is uncommon and handled on a case-by-case basis.

Follow the USCIS Notice

USCIS may reuse biometrics already on file or schedule an appointment at an Application Support Center. There is no separate N-400 biometric services fee. Follow the notice USCIS sends, and do not assume that age alone removes the biometrics requirement or that an appointment has been waived.

How to Reschedule

If you cannot make your scheduled biometrics appointment, follow the rescheduling instructions on your Form I-797C notice or the current USCIS online rescheduling process. Make the request before the scheduled date and provide a good-cause reason. If you cannot use the online process, contact the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283. Do not simply skip the appointment: USCIS may treat the application as abandoned.

Do not assume that an ASC will accept a walk-in visit or an appointment at a different location. Follow your notice and any rescheduling confirmation USCIS provides.

What Happens After Your Biometrics

After your biometrics appointment, USCIS submits your fingerprints to the FBI for the background check. Processing typically takes several weeks. Your case status on the USCIS website will update to show that biometrics were received. The next update you will typically see is when USCIS schedules your interview. Biometrics results and interview scheduling often happen concurrently.