Some I-539 Applicants Won’t Soon Need the Biometrics Requirement

On Might third, USCIS appearing affiliate director Connie L. Nolan introduced {that a} coverage change was being finalized that will waive the biometrics requirement for H-4, L-2, and E dependents, starting Might 17, 2021, and can be anticipated to run out mechanically after two years (Might 17, 2023). The coverage change is being launched to cut back the extended processing delays for I-539 candidates in search of to increase or change their standing and I-765 candidates in search of employment authorization paperwork.

Nolan stated in a sworn assertion on Might third that “the present variety of Kind I-539s for H-4 and L-2 spouses within the backlog is roughly 123,000” and that “the present variety of Kind I-765s for H-4 and L-2 spouses within the backlog is roughly 57,500.”

The processing delays have been particularly troublesome throughout the peak of the pandemic. A number of lawsuits have been filed in opposition to USCIS from many nonimmigrants—as many as 91,000 who misplaced their jobs within the strategy of ready for his or her employment authorization doc extensions.

What’s the Biometrics Requirement?

USCIS initially launched the biometrics screening requirement in 2019 and principally required candidates to submit their fingerprints, pictures, and digital signature.

Who will this coverage apply to? 

The biometric requirement suspension will apply to I-539 purposes that have been filed by H-4, L-2, E-1, E-2, and E-3 dependents if the purposes are thought-about pending as of Might seventeenth, 2021, and in the event that they haven’t obtained a biometric providers appointment discover but or for any new purposes obtained from Might 17, 2021-2023. If you have already got a biometrics appointment scheduled, then it’s best to attend it. We count on to see some progress made with the numerous backlogs USCIS is experiencing as a substitute of this coverage change. USCIS will present extra particulars about this coverage change and the biometrics price within the coming days after they launch an official assertion.

How We Can Assist

In case you are experiencing hardship resulting from pandemic-era insurance policies, backlogs, or want help, we may help. Our staff has intensive information and expertise in dealing with H-4, L-2, and E-dependent circumstances. Give us a name to discover your choices with a free session at this time.