Consequences of Missing a Biometrics Appointment for More Than 60 Days

Missing a Biometrics Appointment for More Than 60 Days: What Are the Consequences?

Your biometrics appointment is an essential part of the immigration process in the US. It is the time when you provide your fingerprints, photograph, and signature to the authorities. This information is then used to cross-check your identity with various databases, including the FBI’s criminal history records. Missing your biometrics appointment can have severe consequences, especially if you fail to reschedule it within 60 days of the original appointment date. So, what happens if you miss your biometrics appointment for more than 60 days?

1. Your Case May Be Denied or Delayed

If you’re applying for any immigration benefit that requires biometrics, such as a green card, work permit, or citizenship, missing your biometrics appointment can result in a denial of your case. USCIS may also place your case on hold until you can attend another appointment. In both cases, your case will experience significant delays and may take longer to process.

2. Your Case May Be Rejected

If you don’t reschedule your biometrics appointment within 60 days of the original date, USCIS may reject your case altogether. This means that you’ll have to start the entire process again, pay the required fees, and wait months or even years to get another chance at your application.

3. You May Be Placed in Deportation Proceedings

If you’re an undocumented immigrant or have an expired status and miss your biometrics appointment, USCIS may place you in deportation proceedings. This means that you’ll have to go before an immigration judge, who will decide whether you can stay in the US or have to leave the country.

4. You May Be Considered an Overstay

If you’re in the country on a temporary visa or have a non-immigrant status and miss your biometrics appointment, USCIS may consider you an overstay. Overstaying your visa can have severe consequences, including deportation, a bar to re-entry, and a negative impact on any future applications you make.

5. You May Have to Pay Fines

Missing your biometrics appointment can result in fines. For example, if you’re applying for a work permit and miss your appointment, you may have to pay up to $1,000 in fees and fines.

Conclusion

Missing a biometrics appointment is a costly mistake that can have severe consequences. It’s essential to reschedule your appointment within 60 days of the original date to avoid any problems with your case. If you do miss your appointment, contact USCIS right away and explain your situation. They may be able to help you reschedule your appointment or provide you with another solution. Remember, immigration law is complicated, and one small mistake can derail your entire case. So, be sure to stay informed, seek legal advice if necessary, and follow all the rules and regulations carefully.