A Guide to the USCIS Reuse of Biometrics for I-90 Applications
Are you planning on filing an I-90 application with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)? If so, you may be wondering about the use of biometrics and what it means for your application.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the USCIS reuse of biometrics for I-90 applications. We’ll cover what biometrics are, how they’re used in the USCIS application process, and what you need to know before submitting your I-90 application.
What are Biometrics?
Biometrics refer to the unique physical or behavioral characteristics of an individual. This can include fingerprints, facial recognition, and even speech patterns. Biometrics have become increasingly important in the digital age as a means of identifying individuals and securing personal information.
In the USCIS application process, biometrics are used to verify the identity of the individual applying for a particular immigration benefit. This includes applications for green cards, work visas, and naturalization, among others.
The USCIS Reuse of Biometrics
Beginning on May 17, 2021, the USCIS started using previously collected biometrics for certain applications. This means that if you’ve applied for an immigration benefit in the past, such as a green card or work visa, the USCIS may use your previously collected biometrics to process your current I-90 application for a green card renewal.
The USCIS reuse of biometrics is intended to speed up the application process and reduce the need for individuals to provide new biometrics for each application. However, it’s important to note that not all applications will be eligible for the reuse of biometrics.
Eligibility for Biometrics Reuse
To be eligible for the USCIS reuse of biometrics, the following conditions must be met:
– You have previously provided biometrics to the USCIS for an immigration benefit
– The biometrics were collected within the past five years
– Your biometrics can be matched to your current I-90 application
If you meet these conditions, the USCIS will use your previously collected biometrics to complete your I-90 application. This can significantly reduce the processing time for your application.
What You Need to Know Before Submitting Your I-90 Application
Before submitting your I-90 application for a green card renewal, there are a few important things to keep in mind:
– Not all applications will be eligible for the reuse of biometrics: While the USCIS reuse of biometrics can speed up the application process, it’s important to note that not all applications will be eligible. Make sure to check with the USCIS to see if your application qualifies for the reuse of biometrics.
– Your biometrics may need to be updated: If your previously collected biometrics are no longer valid or can’t be matched to your current application, you may need to provide new biometrics. This can delay the processing time for your application.
– The USCIS reuse of biometrics is limited to certain applications: Currently, the USCIS reuse of biometrics is only available for I-90 green card renewal applications. It’s possible that this policy may be expanded to include other applications in the future.
Conclusion
The USCIS reuse of biometrics can be a helpful tool for speeding up the application process for certain immigration benefits. However, it’s important to understand the eligibility requirements and limitations of this policy before submitting your I-90 application.
If you have any questions or concerns about the USCIS reuse of biometrics, it’s always best to consult with an experienced immigration attorney who can provide guidance and support throughout the application process.
