Why Reusing Your I-90 Biometrics Could Save You Time and Money
Have you ever lost your immigration documents or had to renew them? It can be a stressful experience, especially when you factor in the time, effort, and money involved in the process. However, if you’ve previously submitted biometrics data such as your fingerprints, you’ll be glad to know that you may not have to do it again. In this post, we’ll explain why reusing your I-90 biometrics could save you both time and money.
What Are Biometrics?
Biometrics refer to unique physical characteristics that can be used to identify an individual, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scans. In the immigration context, biometrics have become an essential part of the application process.
When you file an I-90 application to renew or replace your green card, USCIS may ask you to submit biometrics data. This requirement is in line with implementing the latest identity verification technology to ensure the safety of both immigrants and the US.
What Happens to Your Biometrics?
Once you submit your biometrics, they get stored in the USCIS BIO System, which helps USCIS process your application faster. This means that if you file another application that requires biometrics, USCIS may be able to reuse the data you previously provided. This is known as biometric reuse and can be a significant time and cost saver.
How Can Biometric Reuse Save You Time and Money?
When you reuse your biometrics, you can expect to enjoy a faster processing time as USCIS doesn’t have to schedule another biometrics appointment. You also save money on the biometric fee ($85), which can add up if you have to do it multiple times.
It’s essential to note that biometric reuse isn’t automatic, and USCIS may still ask you to submit new biometrics data in some cases. For instance, if your previous biometrics data was collected more than 15 months ago, USCIS requires that you submit new biometrics data to avoid using outdated information.
Conclusion
Reusing your I-90 biometrics can be a straightforward way to save both time and money when renewing or replacing your green card. Before filing your next application, check if biometric reuse is available and ensure that you’re eligible for it. Additionally, if you’re ever in doubt, seeking the advice of an experienced immigration attorney can help alleviate any uncertainty.
