News from the USCIS

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that it will reuse previously submitted biometrics in order to process valid Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, extension requests due to the temporary closure of Application Support Centers (ASC) to the public in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. This announcement is consistent with existing USCIS authorities regarding the agency’s ability to reuse previously submitted biometrics.

Applicants who had an appointment scheduled with an ASC on or after the March 18 closure or has filed an I-765 extension will have their application processed using previously submitted biometrics. This will remain in effect until ASCs are open for appointments to the public.

Over the years, I have suggested USCIS use fingerprints already in the system instead of having the same applicants come back to the ASC office. Most applicants visit a ASC center THREE times! When only one visit would serve the purpose.

In addition to being more convenient for the Applicant, think of the savings on the USCIS side! They would be able to cut 2/3rds of the biometric appointments, 2/3rds of the notices sent by snail mail and 2/3rds of the headaches to overworked and under paid USCIS staff.

Speaking of USCIS staff, the ASC office in Revere, Massachusetts is managed by Mr. A. As any immigration lawyer in New England can tell you, Mr. A. is a problem solver. He answers when called and he helps when he can. One of the many people working to make our immigration system work from the inside.

Wash your hands! Be safe!